Things to Do in Shimla
Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, is a charming hill station nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. Known for its picturesque beauty, pleasant climate, and colonial architecture, Shimla offers a plethora of activities for tourists. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or a history buff, Shimla has something for everyone. Here is a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Shimla.
Also Read: Places to Visit in Shimla: How To Reach, Best Time & Tips
Best Things to Do in Shimla
- Mall Road: Take a stroll along the iconic Mall Road, lined with shops, cafes, and colonial buildings. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere and shop for souvenirs.
- The Ridge: Visit The Ridge, a spacious open space offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a popular spot for photography and relaxing walks.
- Jakhoo Temple: Trek to Jakhoo Temple, located on Jakhoo Hill, the highest point in Shimla. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and offers breathtaking views of the city.
- Viceregal Lodge: Explore the Viceregal Lodge, also known as the Rashtrapati Niwas. This colonial-era building served as the summer residence of the British viceroys and is now a heritage site.
- Christ Church: Visit Christ Church, one of the oldest churches in North India. Admire its neo-gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
- Scandal Point: Visit Scandal Point, a famous square known for its romantic legend. Enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains and the bustling street life.
- Shimla State Museum: Explore the Shimla State Museum, which houses a rich collection of Himachal Pradesh’s cultural and archaeological artifacts.
- Kufri: Visit Kufri, a small hill station located near Shimla. Enjoy horse riding, yak rides, and stunning views of the Himalayas.
- Chadwick Falls: Trek to Chadwick Falls, located amidst lush green forests. The waterfall is especially beautiful during the monsoon season.
- Tara Devi Temple: Visit Tara Devi Temple, located on a hilltop near Shimla. The temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and is a peaceful place for meditation.
Things to Do in Shimla in 2 Days
- Day 1: Explore Mall Road, The Ridge, and Christ Church. Visit the Shimla State Museum and take a leisurely walk in the evening.
- Day 2: Trek to Jakhoo Temple in the morning. Visit the Viceregal Lodge and enjoy some time at Scandal Point. Optional: Visit Kufri in the afternoon.
Things to Do in Shimla in 3 Days
For a memorable trip to Shimla in 3 days, you can explore the town’s rich history, scenic beauty, and adventurous activities. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Shimla
- Morning: Arrive in Shimla and check into your hotel. Start your day with a hearty breakfast.
- Mid-Morning: Visit the Viceregal Lodge, also known as Rashtrapati Niwas, a beautiful colonial-era building with stunning architecture and historical significance.
- Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
- Afternoon: Explore the Mall Road, Shimla’s main street, lined with shops, cafes, and colonial buildings. Visit Christ Church, one of the oldest churches in North India.
- Evening: Relax and enjoy the scenic views from The Ridge, a large open space in the heart of Shimla.
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
- Morning: Start your day with an early visit to Jakhoo Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Enjoy the panoramic views of Shimla from the temple.
- Breakfast: Have breakfast at a local eatery.
- Mid-Morning: Drive to Kufri, a small hill station near Shimla. Enjoy horse riding and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Lunch: Have lunch in Kufri.
- Afternoon: Visit the Himalayan Nature Park in Kufri to see local flora and fauna.
- Evening: Return to Shimla and spend the evening at leisure. You can explore the local markets or enjoy a leisurely walk.
Day 3: Day of Relaxation
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to Chadwick Falls, a serene waterfall located near Shimla. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings and take some memorable photos.
- Breakfast: Have breakfast at your hotel.
- Mid-Morning: Visit the Shimla State Museum to learn about the history and culture of Himachal Pradesh.
- Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
- Afternoon: Take a short trek to Tara Devi Temple, located on a hilltop near Shimla. Enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
- Evening: Return to Shimla and spend your evening at leisure. You can explore more of the town or relax at your hotel.
Additional Tips for Shimla Travel
- Shopping in Shimla: Don’t forget to shop for souvenirs on Mall Road, where you’ll find a variety of items like handicrafts, woolen clothing, and local artifacts.
- Food: Shimla offers a variety of cuisine options, including local Himachali dishes. Don’t miss trying the famous Himachali Dham, a traditional meal served on special occasions.
- Photography: Shimla is a photographer’s paradise, so don’t forget to carry your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and colonial architecture.
With this itinerary, you’ll get a taste of Shimla’s rich history, natural beauty, and adventure activities, making your 3-day trip a memorable experience.
List of Top 10 Things to Do in Shimla
- Mall Road
- The Ridge
- Jakhoo Temple
- Viceregal Lodge
- Christ Church
- Scandal Point
- Shimla State Museum
- Kufri
- Chadwick Falls
- Tara Devi Temple
Things to Do in Shimla at Night
- Enjoy a leisurely walk on Mall Road and indulge in some street food.
- Attend a cultural show or performance at Gaiety Theatre.
- Visit a local bar or pub for some live music and drinks.
Things to Do in Shimla for Couples
- Take a romantic stroll on The Ridge and enjoy the panoramic views.
- Enjoy a horse ride together in Kufri.
- Have a cozy dinner at one of Shimla’s many romantic restaurants.
Things to Do in Shimla Early Morning
- Watch the sunrise from Jakhoo Hill for breathtaking views.
- Take a morning walk on Mall Road when it’s less crowded.
- Enjoy a peaceful moment at Tara Devi Temple.
Things to Do in Shimla with Family
- Visit Kufri for some fun activities like horse riding and yak rides.
- Explore the Shimla State Museum to learn about the region’s history and culture.
- Enjoy a picnic at Chadwick Falls surrounded by nature.
Unique Things to Do in Shimla
- Take a toy train ride on the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kalka-Shimla Railway.
- Experience ice skating at the natural ice skating rink in winter (usually open from December to February).
- Visit the Himalayan Bird Park to see a variety of bird species native to the region.
Shimla offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, colonial charm, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Shimla has something to offer every traveler. Plan your trip to this enchanting hill station and create unforgettable memories amidst the Himalayas.
