11+ Best Tourist Places to visit in Shimla

Shimla is a place where you get to experience the Himalayas in all their enigmatic glory!

All of these factors combine to create a charm of its own, including evergreen forests, rolling valleys, breathtaking lakes, a pleasant climate, and a colonial ambiance. Even though the place offers a wide range of attractions, including natural splendors as well as man-made wonders, there is one downside to visiting this once summer capital of British India: you’ll have a hard time deciding what to do.

                                                      || Do not Worry, Just read on ||

This blog gives you an overview of some of the must-see places in the region that will never fail to entice you, whether you are a family holidaymaker, honeymooner, or solo traveler.

” On your marks, get set, because Shimla is calling you! Gear up and pack your bags because you won’t want to miss this amazing trip”. here we are going to discuss the places to visit in Shimla.

Here is the list of Top Attractions Places to Visit in Shimla

 

1. The Ridge

2. Jakhoo Hill and Temple

3. Mall Road

4. Kalka-Shimla Railwa

5. Kufri

6. Christ Church

7. Indian Institute of Advanced Study

8. Kali Bari Temple

9. Himachal State Museum

10. Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex

11. Chadwick Falls

12. Lakkar Bazaar,Shimla

 

Let’s know in describe the Top Attractions places to visit in Shimla

 

1. The Ridge, Shimla

The Ridge is regarded as the heart of Shimla in terms of location and tourist attractions. This Shimla tourist spot is a wide-open street that runs along the Mall Road from east to west and connects to the famous Scandal Point.

This paradise of a destination is so popular because it offers breathtaking views of snowcapped mountain ranges that rise against the blue sky to border it.

The place is dotted with long-standing British establishments that beckon visitors to indulge in feel-good shopping and binge eating. Lined with boutiques, bars, restaurants, cafes, and shops, the Ridge serves as the region’s social hub.

Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, Gothic architecture, and elegant architecture, this is one of the most photographed places in the city. That is why ridge is one of the best places to visit in Shimla.

Location:  The Ridge Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001

Timing:  There is no Accurate time, any time is a good time of day to visit 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Highlight: The Ridge is the hub of all cultural activities of Shimla, Himachal Pradesh.

 

2. Jakhoo Hill and Temple, Shimla

A blanket of alpine trees covers Jakhoo Hill, Shimla’s highest point, from which you can see the snow-covered Shivalik Ranges as well as Sanjauli’s sister city. Jakhoo Hill, at 8000 feet above sea level, is the site of an ancient Hanuman temple that boasts the world’s tallest statue (108 feet) of this Hindu god.

Legends and mysteries surround the temple, which attracts both tourists and devotees. According to local legend, the temple stands where Lord Hanuman rested for a while during his journey to return to the Sanjeevani Booti during the war in Lanka. He wanted to revive Lakshman.

Location:  Jakhu Temple Park, Jakhu, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001

Timing: The best time to visit Jakhu temple is between 7:00 am to 8:00 pm.

Highlight: Lord Rama’s brother Lakshman was injured by a deadly arrow while fighting Ravana. A priest diagnosed Lakshmana and said he needed a particular Sanjeevani herb from the Himalayas to recover.

 

3. Mall Road, Shimla

Mall Road is a great place to visit in Shimla for couples. In addition, it is a hip and happening location that attracts people of all ages and is a popular tourist destination. You can soak up the spirit of Shimla in all its touristy delights at this plethora of cafes, restaurants, showrooms, department stores, and shops that sell trinkets and exclusive handicrafts.

A wide variety of items can be found here, from jewelry to books to intricately crafted wooden articles. It is also possible to explore nearby attractions, including the Kali Bari Temple, Town Hall, Gaiety Theatre, and Scandal Point.

Additionally, since there is no vehicular traffic on this road, it is a pleasure to walk here during the evening hours and admire the scenic beauty of the hills. This one is best places to visit in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh.

Location: Mall Rd, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, 171001, India.

Timing:  There is no accurate time, any time is a good time to visit.

Highlight: There is the main street is lined up with a myriad of restaurants, clubs, banks, shops, post offices, and tourist offices.

 

4. Kalka-Shimla Railway

For the right reasons, the Kalka-Shimla train ride is a high point in Shimla tourism. Built-in 1898, this narrow-gauge railway was recently designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for the mountain railways of India.

On its way from Kalka (Haryana) to Shimla, the train travels through incredibly scenic and mountainous terrain, offering spectacular views of the surrounding hills and villages.

While on this route, it stops at a number of tourist destinations, including Solan, Dharampur, Summer Hill, Salogra, Taradevi, and Barog. During your ride, you will pass through 864 bridges, 919 curves, and 102 tunnels.

Though the train ride may not be considered a place to visit in Shimla, it is essential to avoid missing out on some of the stunning sights around Shimla.

Location:  It is a journey starting from Kalka to Shimla.

Timing:  First Train 5:10 am to 9:50 am at Kalka station

Highlight: In this journey, you will go through around 864 bridges, 919 curves, and 102 tunnels.

 

5. Kufri, Shimla

The city center can be reached in about 40 minutes by car from Kufri, another must-see in the area. In addition to offering spectacular views of Shimla’s snow-capped mountains, Kufri is not just a sightseeing destination in the region. Kufri is located at an elevation of 8607 feet, making it an ideal place to visit.

Furthermore, it offers training and facilities for exciting winter sports like ice skating and skiing. As Kufri is frequently covered in snow, it is one of the top places to visit in Shimla in December. Because it experiences regular snowfalls in winter, it is also known as the winter sports capital of India. This hill is the best places to visit in Shimla from the tourist point of view.

Location: It is Located in Dhalli S.O SHIMLA, HIMACHAL PRADESH, India.

Timing:  There is no accurate time. any time is a good time to visit.

Highlight:  Adventure-seeking travelers throng Kufri in the winter to enjoy Skiing and tobogganing along its snow-covered slopes.

6. Christ Church, Shimla

In addition to being one of Shimla’s prominent landmarks, Christ Church boasts exceptional architectural beauty and is the second oldest church in northern India. In the Neo-Gothic style of architecture, this magnificent church can be found on the Ridge and was built in 1857. It is an outstanding example of colonial architecture. The silhouette of this imposing edifice is visible from far away as a legacy of colonial rulers.

In addition to its stained glass windows and brass church bell, the church is an enchanting sight at night when illuminated. While the church looks majestic during the day, it transforms into an enchanting sight when illuminated.

Moreover, it contains the largest pipe organ in India. Even if you’re looking for the best things to do in places to visit in Shimla for 2 days, you shouldn’t miss this spectacular place.

Location:  453G+P9F, Ridge To US Club, The Mall, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001

Timing: This church is Open from Monday to Friday 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM, and Closed on Saturday & Sunday.

Highlight: The Christ Church, Shimla, is the second oldest church in North India, after the St John’s Church in Meerut. In this Church, Worship is conducted in Hindi and English.

 

7. Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla

Looking for an opportunity to see where the decision to separate India into Pakistan and East Pakistan was made a few days before the country gained independence?

In Shimla, you should visit the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies. The building was originally built as a residence for Lord Dufferin, who was the Viceroy of India from 1884 to 1888. It is one of the most iconic places in Shimla and Manali.

When it was constructed, the Viceregal Lodge was known as the Viceregal Lodge and it was connected to electricity in 1888, far before the rest of Shimla was connected to electricity.

After independence, it served as the summer retreat of India’s president and was known as Rashtrapati Niwas before being converted into an advanced research and study center. In addition to its architectural and monumental grandeur, it is a building that draws attention throughout the world. This is one of the best places to visit in Shimla.

Location:  Rashtrapati Niwas, Shimla-171005.

Timing: The best time to visit IIAS is 9.00 am to 5.00 pm. and Monday will be closed.

Highlight: It always attracted historians, Bollywood Filmmakers, tourists, archaeologists, and many others.

 

8. Kali Bari Temple, Shimla

Several temples are known for their religious or historic significance, while others draw visitors due to their architectural beauty, but there are some temples that score high in both categories! The Kali Bari Temple in Shimla is one of them!

 It is believed that the temple was built in 1845 and is both architecturally beautiful as well as religiously significant. As the name suggests, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali, whose idol is captivating. It is a very peaceful spot close to Mall Road where you can connect with your inner self for a few serene moments.

It is interesting to note that Goddess Kali here is known as Goddess Shyamala, and it has been said that Shimla is named after Goddess Shyamala. This is one of the best places to visit in Shimla.

Location: 4548+9PV, Mall Rd, Kali Bari, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001

Timing: The best time to visit this temple is between 6:00 am to 7:00 pm; every day

Highlight: The temple is dedicated to the fearsome reincarnation of Goddess Kali, known as Shyamala Devi.

 

9. Himachal State Museum, Shimla

Himachal State Museum, Shimla | #9 of 12 Places to visit in Shimla

In a colonial mansion located on Mall Road, the Himachal State Museum is home to the Himachal State Museum. A wide variety of miniature paintings, stone sculptures, coins, weapons, armor, dolls, jewelry, handicrafts, and numismatic articles have been discovered in the valley. These articles serve as a record of the state’s grand cultural heritage.

The bronze idols that have been collected from several temples spread across the Himalayas are of particular interest at this site. If you are a history buff, the place offers a treasure trove of heritage and information.

Location: Chaura Maidan Rd, Chaura Maidan, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171004

Timing: The best time to visit this museum is between 10:00 am to 5:00 pm; closed on Mondays

Highlight: The sole aim of this museum is to collect and preserve the historical, artistic, and archaeological items of the Himachal Pradesh State.

 

10. Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex, Shimla

The Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex, which is located near Mall Road, is likely to catch your attention as soon as you step out of your hotel. An imposing structure built in a century-old building, the cultural complex features Victorian architecture. Historically, this building was the main venue for social events in Shimla.

In spite of the demolition of some parts of the original building, the structure remains a grand visual delight today. At one point in time, the building was the venue for notable performances by Prithviraj Kapoor, K.L. Sehgal, Rudyard Kipling, etc. It is one of the best Cultural Complex, places to visit in Shimla.

A renowned center of performing arts, it is visited by artists and art enthusiasts from around the world. The complex comprises an exhibition hall, an art gallery, a multipurpose hall, and an amphitheater.

Location:  453F+RFV, Ridge, Middle Bazar, The Mall, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001

Timing:  Best time to visit is between  9:00 am to 5:00 pm; Monday to Friday

Highlight: You can enjoy most of the shows in the morning time and then catch a performance in the evening.

 

11. Chadwick Falls, Shimla

Shimla’s Chadwick Waterfall, situated within Glen Forests, is one of the most majestic sights that nature has blessed the city with. This waterfall plunges from 86 meters to cascade down a canyon of almost 200 meters.

There is an enticing sight to behold as it is surrounded by a canopy of greenery formed by deodar and pine trees.

If you want to see Chadwick at its best, you should go during the monsoon season (from June to September), when water levels rise and Chadwick seems to come to life.

Splash around in the cold waters if you don’t mind being cold. it is one of the top places to visit in Shimla between July to September.

Location:  449Q+VH3, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171005

Timing: There is no accurate time, any time is a good time of day to visit.

Highlight: Waterfall makes a dive from a height of 86 meters.

 

 12. Lakkar Bazaar, Shimla

Lakkar Bazar is nestled in the [queen of the hills] known as Shimla. This Bazar is known for wooden toys made by a small group of Sikh carpenters who settled there a century ago from Hoshiarpur.

Wooden walking sticks are very famous. This Bazar looks like a small village itself. There is Roller Skating Hall and Meena Bazar is a famous place. Lakkar Bazar is one of the best tourist places to visit in Shimla.

Location:   Mall RdLakkar Bazaar Road, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001

Timing: The Lakkar Bazar is open every day from 9 am to 7 pm.

Highlight: This Bazar is famous for wooden items made using exquisite carpentry.

 

Conclusion

In this blog, we provide information about such places to visit in Shimla. You can visit these places with your family and your friends. Here you can see the beauty of Shimla which is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. There are other places where you can visit. which are such as 9+ Places to visit in Palampur,8+ Wonderful Places to visit in Amritsar with Family, and many more.