Shimla, encased in Rhododendron, Himalayan Oak, and fir trees is crowned with the title ‘Queen of hills’. Shimla has been in importance since the very beginning, from being the summer capital of the British era to being the state capital of Himachal Pradesh. It has always captivated numerous tourists from all over India and the world. The city has received its name from Shyamala Mata who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Kali for whom a temple is dedicated on the Hilltop of Bantony as Kali Bari Temple. Shimla is one of the favorite hill stations in Indian hearts and is also listed under UNESCO World Heritage sites along with a few other hill stations of India. Also, the Shimla-Kalka Railway which still runs on the almost century-old engine built during British rule is listed in UNESCO World Heritage sites. Shimla was brought into importance only after the start of British rule. Shimla is home to the oldest post office in North India known as Conny Cottage which was constructed in the year 1882. Shimla also abodes the oldest and only Natural Ice skating Rink in Aisa. In 1806 Shimla was invaded by Bhimsen That Nepal. After the Anglo- Nepalese war between 1814-16, the British East India Company took over the territory under control as per the Sugauli Treaty. Due to once being the Britisher’s vacation hub, Shimla has many structures influenced by British culture, one of those is the Second Oldest Church of North- India. Leaders of the freedom movement Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Nehru, Sardar Patel, Maulana Azad, and many others frequently visited Shimla during the struggling days of Independence. Shimla has an important role in Indian History as the India- Pakistan peace treaty, Shimla agreement was signed by Prime Minister of India Indira Gandhi and President of Pakistan Zulfikar Ali Bhutto at that date in Viceregal Lodge which is now, Indian Institute of Advanced Studies.  During its heyday, it attracted many princes, diplomats, merchants, and political leaders of countries like Tibet, Afghanistan, Myanmar, China, and other countries. Shimla is also an Agricultural trade center and has industries like manufacturing, Brewing, and handloom weaving.

Geography of Shimla

Shimla is located at an elevation of 2206 meters, a popular city and a district in itself on the south-western range of the Himalayas in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Shimla is situated on seven hills that stretch approximately up to 9.2km from east to west. Inverarm Hill, Observatory Hill, Prospect Hill, Summer Hill, Bantony Hill, Elysium Hill, and Jakhoo Hill, the tallest hill of Shimla at 2,425 meters. The closest water body to Shimla is the Sutlej River at a distance of 21 km. Few other rivers flowing through the district are River Giri and Pabbar River, the tributaries of River Yamuna. The city is enveloped by the Rhododendron, Himalayan Oak, and fir trees. There are many treks and hikes to commence in Shimla like Chander Nahan Lake, Rupin Pass, Bhuran Ghati, Gunas Pass, Churdhar Peak, Giri Ganga, Shali Tibba, and Karol Tibba.

Plan My Package Recommends: Places to Visit in Shimla

Shimla Mall Road

The Shimla Mall Road in the heart of the city is the main street that is the busiest and commercial area being a mini-world in itself, with hordes of restaurants, cafes, clubs, shops, tourist offices, post offices, banks, and more. Apart from the mall road is a tourist spot in itself and also holds other tourist attractions like Scandal Point and Kali Bari Temple. The Mall road of Shimla truly solemnizes the spirit of the hilltown, The charm of Mall road is enjoyed in groups with family and friends. Woolen clothes and handicraft stores are famous here apart from usual book and jewelry stores.  The wooden furniture stores that sell articles that look like antiques are popular for taking souvenirs. No vehicles except emergency ones are allowed here making it perfect for ambulating around in the evenings in the twinkling market. Apart from shopping Shimla Mall road is also famous for Cafes and restaurants.

Timings of Shimla Mall Road: 9 am - 9 pm

Exploration time required in Shimla Mall Road: 2 -3 hours

Location of Shimla Mall Road: Shimla City Centre

The Ridge

The Ridge is located in the center of the city just beside Mall Road. The Ridge is a popular shopping and Social hub of Shimla. It has everything from shops selling exclusive artifacts to the picturesque view of snow-blanketed mountain ranges. Shimla’s rich history reflects through the Gothic buildings here. The Ridge attracts a huge mob with its belted cafes, bars, restaurants, boutiques, and shops. The Ridge runs east to west beside Mall Road and connects to the Scandal point on the west end and on the east connects to Lakkar Bazaar. The Ridge is also housing the city’s lifeline, the water reservoir that has a storage capacity of 1000000 gallons of water. The water tank was built in the 1880s only with lime mortar. The famous Summer Festival of Shimla which is celebrated for 5 days is held here at The Ridge from 2nd June to 7th June.

Timings of The Ridge: 8 am to 6 pm

Exploration Time required for The Ridge: 2-3 hours

Location of The Ridge: Shimla City Centre

Jakhu Temple

Jakhoo Temple is set betwixt the plush green Deodar tree forests of the background of Shivalik ranges on Jakhoo Hill, the highest point of Shimla. It is an ancient place dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The Jakhoo Hill is complemented by a huge population of monkeys. The statue of Lord Hanuman here is one of the World’s Tallest statues above sea level with a height of over 8000 feet marking a marvelous piece of engineering. Based on the legends about the temple it is believed that Lord Hanuman halted in this spot for some rest during his search for Sanjeevani Booti. One can get a taxi ride or a pony ride. a 2 km trail or a ropeway ride which is free of cost for children below the age of 3 from the city center.

Timings of Jakhoo Temple: 5 am to 12 pm and 4 pm to 9 pm

Exploration time required for Jakhoo temple: 1-2 hours

Location of Jakhoo Temple: 1 km from Shimla City Center

Kali Bari Temple

Kali Bari Temple is an ancient temple built in the year 1845 dedicated to the Goddess Kali having immense religious importance. The temple adobes an idol of Goddess Kali ornamented with colorful flowers and jewelry. The temple premises are clean and well maintained and devotees prefer sitting here and enjoying the heavenly vibe by chanting and meditating.  The legend about Jakhoo hills is that Goddess Kali lived on Jakhoo Hill which was the ancient location of the ancient temple that was relocated by the Britishers.  Locals also call this Goddess, Shyamala Mata on whom the name of the city is derived. The temple is gushed with tourists and devotees during the  Navratri festival. The evening  Aarti is worth attending with priests chanting the mantras.

Timings for Kali Bari Temple: 6 am to 7 pm

Exploration time required for Kali Bari Temple: 1- 2 hours

Location of Kali Bari Temple: 1 km from Shimla City Center

Indian Institute of Advanced Studies / Visceral Lodge

Indian Institute of Advanced Studies / Visceral Lodge is a former building used for important Government meetings by Britishers. It is located on Observatory Hill. It is now an active educational institute for post-doctoral courses. The institute is a majestic structure of Victorian-style architecture. One can take a guided tour to the galleries here and come across the history through the photographs placed here, a part of Visceral Lodge.

Timings for Indian Institute of Advanced Studies:  9 am to 5 pm, Monday closed.

Exploration time required for Indian Institute of Advanced Studies: 1-2 hours

Entry fees for Indian Institute of Advanced Studies:

Indians: 40₹

Foreigners: 85₹

Location of Indian Institute of  Advanced Studies: 3km from Shimla City center

Himachal State Museum

Himachal State Museum is situated on the Shimla Mall Road. The Museum has unique collectibles like ancient paintings, coins, and other handicraft items of aesthetics influenced by the Pahari form of art collected from all over the state and country.  Many art and history enthusiasts visit the museum. The museum also abodes a Library with around 10,000 books, journals, and magazines. The Doll Gallery here has several dolls gracefully decorated as brides and grooms among many others. Some archaeological artifacts are also found here that include stones from the 8th century.  During colonial times, the grand building was an abode for Lord William Beresford, the Military Secretary to the then Viceroy in India. After being occupied by several tenants later, post Independence it housed the government state officials. It was later converted into a museum on January 26, 1974.

Timings for Himachal State Museum: 10 am to 1:30 pm and 2 pm to 5:30 pm, Tuesday to Friday

Exploration time required for Himachal State Museum: 1-2 hours

Entry fees for Himachal State Museum:

Indians: 20₹

Foreigners: 50₹

Location of Himachal State Museum: 2 km from Shimla City Centre

Shimla Christ Church

Shimla Christ Church is the second oldest church in Northern India, is a pure site of devotion. The construction of this architectural bliss took 11 years to complete during the British Colonization in India. The church is captivating to tourists of all age groups as it twinkles when lightened up at night, the church appears to be a magnificent Castle.  A grand Library is located right next to the Christ Church which is also open for tourists. The church is inspired by the neo-gothic style of architecture, the yellow building, and its silhouette is visible from far across the town. The church has also been featured in a few Bollywood movies like Black and 3 Idiots.

Timings for Shimla Christ Church: 8 am to 6 pm

Exploration time required for Shimla Christ Church:  1-2 hours

Location of Shimla Christ Church: Shimla City Center

Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex

Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex is a century-old building with the Victorian or Gothic style of architecture designed by a British Indian Architect holding immense cultural and historical significance. This building was built in 1887 is of 5- story aboded with an amphitheater, multi-purpose hall, an exhibition hall, and an art gallery. It is an essential and famous center for performing art. The Victorian style of architecture has a glimpse of the importance of art and how it affects the culture of the region.

Timings for Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex: 11 am to 1:15 and 1:45 to 7 pm

Exploration time required for Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex:  2-3 hours

Entry fees for Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex:

Indians: 10₹

Foreigners: 25₹

Location of Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex: Shimla City Center.

Know more about places to visit in Shimla.

Places near Shimla

Mashobra (approx.10.3 km)

Mashobra is a small and less explored town with an abundance of rich flora and fauna. It is located at an elevation of about 2,347 meters. Mashobra is a perfect place for people looking for a getaway from the crowd. Reserve Forest Sanctuary here is one of Asia’s largest watersheds that supply water to Shimla. It is a place worth visiting for its lush deciduous envelopes around it and is a delight for birdwatchers. Carignano is a must-visit place, it is a picnic spot with calm ambiance and always pleasant weather which was the earlier villa of Chevalier to an Italian photographer in India during the colonial era named this place in honor of his native town  Craginano Town in Italy. Mashobra peak is popular for its small fair held in May, which is a celebration done while shifting the idol of Lord Mashu. It is a great place to visit for people interested in exploring the traditions and festivals.

Distance from Shimla to Mashobra: 10.3 km via Dhalli Bypass and SH 13

Time required to reach Mashobra from Shimla: 35 mins

Time required to explore Mashobra: 1-2 days

Kufri (approx. 14.4 km)

Kufri was founded by the Britishers in the year 1819, has recently come into the highlight as an important tourist destination. Kufri is popularly known as the starting point of several treks, its Ski slopes, and the Kufri Zoo. Mahasu Peak located at an altitude of 2,720 meters, along with Fagu Valley attracts many tourists for hiking. The peak is accessible by a hike or a pony ride therefore no disappointment to non-hikers. Time can be spent well on the peak playing with snow or emerging in the beautiful view offered on the peak while photography as there are a few photo points. Go-karting in Kufri Fun World is another amazing activity to indulge in as Kufri has the highest go-karting track in the world. Indira Tourist Park is a place for people to chill in a quiet ambiance and pleasant environment with good food and drinks. 

Distance from Shimla to Kufri: 14.4 km via NH05

Time required to reach Kufri from Shimla: 45 mins

Time required to explore Kufri: 1 day

Shoghi ( approx. 14.6 km)

Shoghi is a good option for people willing a hustle-free visit to Shimla with a calm, serene, and epitome of beauty here adorned with dense vegetation of Himalayan flora. Shogi has excellent resorts to host the guests helping with a comfortable stay  A nature walk in the green nature while visiting the ancient temples around is a well-recommended activity or trying the fruit made products here. Tara Devi Temple is one of the famous and believed temples. Camping, trekking, and hiking are also famous activities done here. The Jakhu Hill hike is the most famous while in Shoghi.

Distance from Shimla to Shojha: 14.6 km via NH05

Time required to reach Shojha from Shimla: 35 mins

Time required to explore Shojha: 1-2 days

Fagu (approx. 18 km)

Fagu is a snow-clad hamlet with a serene atmosphere located at an elevation of 2500 meters.  It is believed that the Name ‘Fagu’ is derived from the term ‘fog’ as the place is covered with fog for almost 9 months of the year. With the spectacle of the snow-curtained Himalayas and the pleasant weather, Fagu is honeymooners’ paradise. It is also popularly known among trekkers and nature lovers. The apple plantations with rich red apples and potato fields here are very popular and common sites. The whole place is encased with lush green pine and cedar trees with green meadows.  The inhabitants of Fagu like Ponies, yak, and snow leopards can be spotted. Bhantia Devta Temple is an archeological marvel popular in Fagu recommended for tourists and devotees. Also, the Chharabra  Sunrise and Sunset point are popular for the golden hour view.

Distance from Shimla to Fagu: 14.6 km via NH05

Time required to reach Fagu from Shimla: 45 mins

Time required to explore Fagu: 1-2 days

Naldehra (approx. 23 km)

Naldehra is a small hill station of Himachal Pradesh, a perfect offbeat location. It is popularly known for its lush green meadows and golf course and plain views of the mountains of Pines, Cedar, and Deodar trees. Naldehra is astonishing with the spectacle of mountains and the Sutlej river. It was Lord Curzon, the British Viceroy of India who discovered Naldehra and was mesmerized by its beauty during the 21st century after which the place was brought into notice. Tourists can enjoy their time in the lush green valley or take a horse ride to the Naldehra Golf course, India’s most famous Golf course.

Distance from Shimla to Naldehra: 23 km via NH05

Time required to reach Naldehra from Shimla: 1hr

Time required to explore Naldehra: 1 day

Solan (approx.44.3 km)

Solan is the Mushroom Capital of India located in the Punjab-Himachal Valley lying on the lower Himalayan range. It is much of an Industrial town with different industries. Solan is a quiet hill station perfect for tourists willing to be away from the crowd. Solan is treasured with ancient temples and monasteries attracting thousands of tourists and devotees every year. One of the most popular monasteries is Yundung Monastery. This beautiful city has a spectacle of majestic hills and quaint charm to the center of worship. Solan is also known as the city of red gold as it produces tomatoes in bulk. Solan has the oldest breweries in India. The 300-year fort located on the hilltop is in ruins yet a popular site to visit. The Shoolini Mata Temple and Jatoli Shiv Temple are a must-visit for devotees as well as tourists.

Distance from Shimla to Solan: 44.3 km via NH05

Time required to reach Solan from Shimla: 1hr 45 mins

Time required to explore Solan: 1 day  Know More

Things to do in Shimla

Paragliding

Paragliding in Shimla has recently become popular among the enthusiastic and zeal-filled youths of India who look for new adventures now and then. Shimla once being the summer capital of India during British rule, the land is sprawling green during the summers and covered with a white blanket of snow during winters and the best way to witness this beauty of Shimla in a single view is through Paragliding. The only place in Shimla where paragliding takes place is Shivpuri another place is Waknaghat just 22 km away from Shimla. Paragliding in Shivpuri takes place at a height of 3200ft and Waknaghat at 5000ft. Though there is a difference in height but not in the experience that it will leave you with. One can choose based on their interest and level of excitement at which height they want to glide through.

Golfing

Shimla once being the summer capital of British India, Shimla is incomplete without any golf course which is true as Shimla abodes India’s most famous golf course, the Naldehra Golf course, and  Annadale Ground as Shimla is blessed with the vast meadows of open land just perfect for Golf. Shimla is a big helping hand in promoting golf in India giving tourists a vivid experience to try their hand in golf. The calm and serene atmosphere with a backdrop of the snow-covered Himalayas adds charm to the game and makes it more pleasurable for the tourists as well as the players. The Naldhara Golf Course is one of the most famous and oldest golf courses in India, located approximately 22 km away from the city center. It is considered to be one of the most challenging golf courses in India a par 68, 9 holes golf course. Annadale ground is also a nine-hole golf course managed by the Army with several beautiful hotels and resorts with a view of the lush green golf course.

Ice- Skating

The Shimla Ice-Skating Rink is a popular place for tourists and ice-skating enthusiasts from all over the world as it is the largest and only natural ice-skating rink in South Asia. It is also the oldest Ice-Skating Rink in India. Indulging in a sport at the hummock is a once in a life experience. People come with family or friends to have fun and quality time. The Ice-skating Rink has been in use for Sports and recreational activity since the very beginning in the year 1920. It also holds sports events for Ice skating, Ice hockey, and the annual carnival. The ice skates can be rented here at reasonable rates. It is highly recommended to experience ice-skating on a visit to Shimla in winter.

Summer Festival of Shimla

Shimla is the land that adores its culture and tradition and gratitudes the nature its offers with festivals and celebrations. One of such festivals is the Summer Festival of Shimla celebrated with gratitude and tribute to the god for the bountiful harvests. It is a grand festival celebrated in May or June. It was in 1960 when the Summer Festival of Shimla was first celebrated and has been celebrated with the same enthusiasm to date captivating a huge audience every year. The festival was started to promote the tourism and culture of Himachal Pradesh which has turned into the most anticipated event of the year. Shimla’s Summer festival celebrated for five long days is a complete fete of cultural attractions, locally made handicraft exhibitions, folk musicals, and dance performances. Wacky activities like Dog Shows, fashion shows, and artisanal ware selling stalls are also put up for the festival. Multiple local cuisine stalls are found all around this time. An amazing flower show that is organized is a bliss to the festival with blooming flowers and orchards bathing the town with the flowers make a charm of the town. The summer festival is the best time to witness the maximum blooms of Himachali floras. Find out more on things to do in Shimla.

Best time to visit Shimla

Shimla in Summers ( March- June)

Summer in Shimla is from May to June, while March and April are of the Spring season.  The temperature during this season remains between 15℃ to 30℃ making the land a little warmer and melting the snow after cold winters exposing the shadeful green meadows and blossoming flowers. The climate is gratifying throughout the day, perfect for tourists to enjoy and explore the place. During the summers Shimla is the escape for tourists in the neighboring town and states. Shimla was declared the summer capital of India in 1864. It is one of the most crowded times by tourists but that doesn’t decrease any level of joy that one could get. This season is perfect for summer adventure activities like paragliding, camping, hiking, trekking, etc. People can also enjoy the summer festivals like Holi,  Baisakhi, and Shimla Summer Festival which is a five-day carnival with folk music, dance, culture, and ritual performances with an exhibition of cultural handicrafts and many more.

Shimla in Monsoons (July- August -September)

Monsoons in Shimla are with heavy and unpredicted rainfall, not an appropriate time for tourists, and is considered as an offseason for tourism. Yet adventurous and risk-taking tourists visit to explore Shimla at the low budget prices available is in this season. The temperature in the monsoon sustains from14℃ to 20℃. Haryali Teej is a festival celebrated in the monsoon season on the first day of Shravan Maas, tourists can experience the culture of Himachal  Pradesh.

Shimla in Winters ( October- February)

Shimla is famous for its winters as it is the best time to visit snow-covered Shimla for snow lovers. Though the winter starts from mid-October, the coldest months of Shimla are December and January. The weather in October and November is pleasant and calm, best for sightseeing and shopping. As the winter season keeps getting colder the more perfect time is for Skiing and trekking to the snow-clad mountains or to have a snow fight with your companions with snowballs. The temperature in winter remains from -6℃ to 8℃. Shimla holds the Winter Carnival inviting people to indulge in winter adventure activities like skiing, ice skating, other entertainment, and cultural events.  People can witness other events like Navratri, Bhoj fair, Diwali, ice-skating Carnival, and Christmas in December and Lohri. Know More

How to reach Shimla

Shimla By Air

The nearest airport to Shimla is Jubbarhatti Airport (SLV)  at a distance of approximately 28 km but only functions occasionally with limited flights from Delhi, Kullu, Chandigarh, and Dharamshala. The major nearest airport to Shimla is Chandigarh International Airport (IXC) which is well connected with all major cities of India with frequent flights. Chandigarh International Airport is located 216 km away from  Shimla. Flights of Indigo, Vistara, Air India, and GoFirst land at Chandigarh International Airport. For further journey cabs, taxis and buses are available from the airport till Shimla.

Shimla By Rail

The nearest railway station to Shimla is Broad Gauge railway station, Kalka Railway Station at a distance of 89km. Himalayan Queen and Howrah Express are available from Delhi to Kalka daily. The journey further can be commenced by cab, taxi, buses but enjoying a toy train ride in Shimla is not an everyday delight to miss. Riding a Railcar in Shimla is a must-do activity that gives out of the world experience. Toy trains for Shimla Railway station (SML) from Kalka Railway station (KLK) are

● Kalka - Shimla Himalayan Queen

● Kalka - Shimla  Shivalik Deluxe Express

● Kalka - Shimla Holiday Special

● Kalka - Shimla Passenger

● Kalka - Shimla NG Express

Shimla by Road

The route to Shimla is very well constructed and well linked to other parts of Himachal Pradesh and other northern parts of India. Chandigarh-Shimla Highway is the nearest route to Shimla and a well-accessed road from Chandigarh requiring only a 3 and a half-hour ride covering 120km.  Deluxe and many more other buses are available frequently from all northern parts of India. Delhi to Shimla 347 km via NH44. The highways accessible to Shimla are NH05, NH44, and SH18. Know More.

Places to stay in Shimla

Wild Flower Hall ( An Oberoi Resort) 5✩

Located at an elevation of 2517 meters betwixt dense forests and Himalayan mountains was originally the residence of Lord Kitchener of Khartoum. It is believed the building was the treasured retreat of Lord Ripon which had caught fire and burnt in the year 1993 and later was new Wildflower rebuilt as a hotel in a joint venture by Himachal Pradesh Government and Oberoi Groups of Hotel in Shimla. This 5-star property has several types of rooms like Deluxe Room with Victorian Garden View, Premier Room with Valley View,  Premier Room with Himalayan Mountain View.  Each room of the property has agonizing vintage furniture and teak wood flooring. The property offers a heated pool, spa, bar alfresco dining, and a library.

Location of Wild Flower Hall: Chharabra

Wild Flower Hall Check-in time: 2 pm

Wild Flower Hall Check-out time: 12 pm

Distance:

Wild Flower Hall from Shimla Mall road: 10.8 km

Wild Flower Hall from Shimla Railway Station: 12 km

Wild Flower Hall from Jubbarhatti  Airport (SLV): 31 km

Wild Flower Hall from Chandigarh International  Airport (IXC):  132.5 km via NH05

Oberoi Cecil 5✩

Built-in the year 1884, Burmese teak floors, opulent decor, glowing fireplaces, and panoramic landscapes of the mountains from each room, the property hosts a luxurious and comfortable stay. The Suite rooms also have a terrace and living room. The property flaunts colonial architecture. It has a decorous kitchen, lounge bar, heated indoor pool, and spa facilities. Rooms like Deluxe Rooms, Luxury rooms, Premier Valley View rooms,  Deluxe Suites, and Luxury Suites are available. The restaurant here serves Pan-Indian, International, and Local Himalayan Cuisines.

Location of Oberoi Cecil: Chaura Maidan Rd,Shimla

Oberoi Cecil Check-in time: 2 pm

Oberoi Cecil  Check-out time: 12 pm

Distance:

Oberoi Cecil  from Shimla Mall road: 2.1 km

Oberoi Cecil  from Shimla Railway Station: 200 m

Oberoi Cecil from Jubbarhatti  Airport (SLV): 18.1 km

Oberoi Cecil from Chandigarh International  Airport (IXC):  120.5 km via NH05

Clarkes Hotel 4✩

Clarkes Hotel, a grand heritage hotel since 1898 is one of the oldest hotels in Shimla known for its architecture dating back to the colonial era. The property provides courteous service and superior amenities of terraces, banquet, and lobby lounge along with warm themes and wooden furnishing adorning the rooms. Upgraded Suites add balconies, seating areas, mountain landscape views. The restaurant serves Indian, continental and Chinese cuisines. The 18th-century lounge bar serves cocktails, mocktails, and drinks.  The property has Premier Rooms, Suites, Superior Rooms, Deluxe Rooms.

Location of Clarkes Hotel: Bemloi

Clarkes Hotel Check-in time: 2 pm

Clarkes Hotel Check-out time: 12 pm

Distance:

Clarkes Hotel from Shimla Mall road: 650 m

Clarkes Hotel from Shimla Railway Station: 900 m

Clarkes Hotel from Jubbarhatti  Airport( SLV): 20.9 km

Clarkes Hotel from Chandigarh International  Airport (IXC):  122.3 km via NH05

Treebo Trend Varuna 3✩

Treebo Trend Varuna is located at just walking distance from Shimla Railway Station is bestowed with the charm of subalpine foliage, panoramic mountain views, and refined amenities. The property has standard double rooms furnished with wooden paneling, king-sized beds, with some rooms having a snow-laden lake view and a fancy bar. The restaurant serves local Himachal and Indian cuisines.

Location of Treebo Trend Varuna: Gorton Castle Square

Treebo Trend Varuna Check-in time: 12 pm

Treebo Trend Varuna Check-out time: 11 am

Distance:

Treebo Trend Varuna from Shimla Mall road: 800 m

Treebo Trend Varuna from Shimla Railway Station: 650 m

Treebo Trend Varuna from Jubbarhatti Airport( SLV): 19.2 km

Treebo Trend Varuna from Chandigarh International  Airport (IXC):  111 km via NH05

Honeymoon Inn 3✩

Honeymoon Inn is located just at a distance of 1km from Shimla Railway Station at the mountainside. The property provides homely stay with Super Deluxe Rooms and Honeymoon Suites and has a common games room. The restaurant serves local Himachal, Indian and Indo-Chinese cuisines and romantic-themed dinner nights. Mountain biking and Hiking are arranged on request.

Location of Honeymoon Inn: The Mall Road

Honeymoon Inn Check-in time: 12 pm

Honeymoon Inn Check-out time: 11 am

Distance:

Honeymoon Inn from Shimla Mall road: 1.5 km

Honeymoon Inn from Shimla Railway Station: 2.6 km

Honeymoon Inn from Jubbarhatti  Airport( SLV): 21.2 km

Honeymoon Inn from Chandigarh International  Airport (IXC):  112.9 km via NH05

The Oak Tree House

The Oak Tree House located in Chotta Shimla approximately 5 km away from the city center with the spectacular backdrop of Oak forests, provides a luxurious stay with a home away from home vibes. With period antique furnishing and themes of obsolete eras, each room has snug beddings, fleecy rugs, and astonishing mountain views. The in-house restaurant prepares hot Indian food with fresh locally produced, also has a bar inside. They do consider serving special diet menus and kids’ meals on request. The property also offers free parking and wifi facilities. They do arrange cycling and hiking activities on request.

Location of The Oak Tree House: Bharari Road, Longwood

The Oak Tree House Check-in time: 12 pm

The Oak Tree House Check-out time: 11 am

Distance:

The Oak Tree House from Shimla Mall road: 2.3 km

The Oak Tree House from Shimla Railway Station: 3.9 km

The Oak Tree House from Jubbarhatti  Airport( SLV): 22.5 km

The Oak Tree House from Chandigarh International  Airport (IXC):  123.8  km via NH05

Vatsalyam Homestay

Vatsalyam Homestay is run by the locally renowned Sharda Family. Situated on the fringe of the center of the city, Shimla overlooks deodar forests and the stream. One can enjoy the forest walk or just sit back on the logs in the Garden with seasonal fruit and flora and feel the fresh air with the aroma of nature. The lip-smacking vegetarian local Himachali cuisines. The property has spacious rooms with a common terrace. Enjoy your evenings with a pleasant breeze and bonfires. The facilities like Wifi and Parking are free here.

Location of Vatsalyam Homestay: Lower Dudhli

Vatsalyam Homestay Check-in time: 12 pm

Vatsalyam Homestay Check-out time: 12 pm

Distance:

Vatsalyam Homestay from Shimla Mall road: 4.8 km

Vatsalyam Homestay from Shimla Railway Station: 6 km

Vatsalyam Homestay from Jubbarhatti  Airport( SLV): 24.6 km

Vatsalyam Homestay from Chandigarh International  Airport (IXC):  126.6  km via NH05 Know More

Places to Eat in Shimla

Cafe Shimla Times

Cafe Shimla Times is a budget-friendly place in Mall road with a cafe, bakery, and bar famous for the mouth-watering food served here, the wood-fired pizzas, burgers, meal platters, palatial shakes, and fizzy cocktails. This place is perfect to hang out with friends or spend quality time with dear ones in the cozy ambiance. The cafe offers panoramic views of the mountains outside the window.

Location of Cafe Shimla Times: The Mall Road

Timings of Cafe Shimla Times: 1:30 pm to 10:30 am

Cafe Hide Out

Cafe Hide Out is popularly known for its butter coffee and lip-smacking snacks located near Mall road.  It is a must-visit cafe while in Shimla. The cafe is run by two brothers offering amazing food at reasonable prices.

Location of Cafe Hide Out: The Mall Road

Timings of Cafe Hide Out: 8 am to 10: 15 pm

Cafe Wake and Bake

Cafe Wake and Bake attract numerous tourists daily. It is famous for its world-class coffee, pancakes, and bacon. Boasting the surreal panoramic views of Himalayan mountains outside the windowpane and artsy indoors. It is highly recommended to visit the cafe for a pleasant time with the amazing meal and views with friends.

Location of Cafe Wake and Bake: The Mall Road

Timings of Cafe Wake and Bake:  9:30 am to 10 pm

45 The Central

45 The Central is a multicuisine restaurant that serves exquisite services and appetizing cuisines. Popularly known for its Sahi Indian, Asian and European cuisines. It is a wonderful place to dine out with family and friends with artsy interiors.

Location of 45 The Central: The Mall Road

Timings of Cafe 45 The Central: 11 am to 11 pm 

Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s

• Carry sufficient warm woolen clothes and boots during winters
• Do follow the instructions given by the guide or instructor while performing any activity
• Keep yourself hydrated and carry enough beverages.
• Carry your medical precautions as per personal requirements.
• Carry your IDs, Documents, and Permissions ( if required).
• Wear appropriate clothes and cover your head with a piece of cloth while entering the temples or any religious places.

Dont's

• Do not litter anywhere
• Do not walk in deep snow or drive in such areas
• Do not disobey or object to any cultural or religious beliefs 

Postal Code of Shimla: The postal code of Shimla is 171001