Shimla also spelt Simla, is one of India's most famous hill station was the formal summer capital of the British in India. At present, Shimla is the capital of the state of Himachal Pradesh in India. It is a very good holiday - retreat during the summer months, it is also a famous holiday spot for Honeymoon. Locals insist that the name Shimla originates from Shymali Devi , a re-incarnation of the fearsome Goddess Kali, the deity of power and wrath.
Nature has blessed this capital city with innumerable gifts and man has used them to make Shimla one of India's best locals. It is well known for its Victorian architecture , which is reflected in certain areas of The Mall and The Ridge. The higher levels of the town reflect British connection, comprising mostly buildings in the Victorian style, while the lower slopes are occupied with Indian Bazaars and Restaurants. Traffic is banned from the historic central area, (Known as The Mall) which means that the atmosphere is calm and air pristine.
The salubrious air and scenic views of Himalayas accompanied by the structures made during the colonial era creates an aura which is different from other hill stations. Shimla cool climate is the precise reason why it is such a popular summer retreat. Located at an altitude of about 2200 Meter above the sea level, the region has the hilly terrain and is covered by dense evergreen forest. A few visitors choose to visit Shimla during spring or Autumn , when the place is less crowded and the view are too spectacular for words. Discover the "Queen of Hill Station" on foot, it's simply the best way. The walking trails are superb with tall pines and majestic deodar and the spectacular views of the Himalayas.
Get IN :
By Air : Nearest Airport to Shimla is at Jubberhatti, 26 Km from Shimla. It has connecting flights to Delhi and Kullu. The Chandigarh Airport, located at a distance of 120 km from Shimla along far better roads and at an elevation of only 308 meters above sea level, offers far better flight option. The Chandigarh Airport is, however, more handy as it is connected to all the major Airports in India.
By Road : Shimla is well connected by road with Chandigarh, Kalka, Ambala, Dehradun, Delhi, Jalandhar, Amritsar, Jammu and other towns of Punjab and Haryana. It takes only 2.5 hours from Kalka to Shimla by taxi. Taxi services are available on a seat basis between Shimla and Kalka. There is Deluxe bus service between Shimla and Delhi.
By Rail : The nearest broad gauge head is at Kalka - a four hour journey from Delhi. After that take a mountain train from Kalka to Shimla. From Kalka to Shimla, a narrow gauge line covers 96 km of track. The journey by train which takes about six hours, crossing 103 tunnels is one of the finest ways of enjoy the scenic beauty. The fastest way to get to Kalka is to catch the Shatabadi Express, which departs early morning from the New Delhi Railway Station, arriving at Kalka four hours later. You can also choose to get off at Chandigarh and get a taxi from here.
Prime Attractions :
1) The Mall : The hub of Shimla is Mall, which runs along the Ridge and is crowded with tourists. It is the city's most famous shopping center, with shops selling all items, from clothes to junk food. This shopping center has the good number of Banks, Restaurants, Post Offices, Clubs, Bars and tourist offices. There is the famous theater of Shimla called Gaiety Theater. The Mall further joins the Ridge at the 'Scandal Point', where the statue of Lala Lajpat Rai has been erected. The Mall is also the main meeting place for the people of Shilma.
2) The Ridge : The large open space in the heart of town present excellent view of the mountain ranges. It is built at the top of the town at the 2230 Meter, The Ridge is the center of Shimla's culture and social life - an excellent place to see the surrounding mountains.
3) Christ Church : This famous landmark Church was built over a span of 11 years (1846-1857) and is the second oldest church of Northern India. The stain glass windows, representing charity, faith, hope, fortitude and humility, and 19th century organ are particular impressive. The building looks all the more beautiful at night when its grand architecture glows with clever lighting.
4) Jakhoo Temple : Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is at an altitude of 8084 feet above sea level and is the highest point of Shimla. According to the epic Ramayana, the monkey God Hanuman rested here during his journey to the Himalayan Mountains. The climb up is a physically demanding one hour-walk. It offers a panoramic view over the surrounding valley. The temple and hill side is populated with very aggressive and cunning monkeys. Be extremely careful with your camera, glasses, bag and food.
5) Tara Devi : Located on Tara Parvat is the Temple of Tara Devi, about 15 Km from Shimla. The view from the temple is very beautiful. This is the perfect location for the people who are looking for some rest and peace at a high altitude of around 6070 feet. The temple is very clean with very beautiful flowers maintained around it. The forested hill around lend a tranquility to the area. A road meanders uphill through the pine forest.
6) Sankat Mochan : The famous Lord Hanuman temple is situated on Ambala - Shimla Highway 5 Km short of Shimla. The temple has beautiful campus and LangerShimla from the temple. It can be reached by car or on foot.
