Shimla is one of the most beautiful cities in India. With breathtaking mountain landscapes and gorgeous weather year round – this is the place to escape overly hot weather. And if you’re looking for cooler temperatures, you can’t beat this popular retreat.
Wondering what the best places to visit in Shimla are? Wondering where the heck shimla even is? Keep reading!
From its busy markets, high end hotels, and delicious restaurants – there are many attractions and tourist places to visit nearby Shimla that provides stunning views of the majestic mountains and hills covered with snow.
Keep reading to check out the best tourist places in Shimla, with photos!
Best Places to Visit in Shimla, India
When is the Best time to visit Shimla?
The best time to take your Shimla trip is between October to November and from March to May, for the best weather. I don’t suggest going during the monsoon season. The roads become dangerously slippery and there may be landslides.
Snowfall in Shimla
Shimla can be visited throughout the year for sunny weather. But, if you are interested in experiencing the colder weather and wish to see a snowfall, then Winter is the best time to visit.
The Hill Station witnesses heavy snowfall and tourists flock Shimla in December during Christmas and New Year to see the town blanketed in layers of fluffy white snow. Winters are also an ideal time to visit this beautiful city in India if you love adventure sports like skiing and ice-skating.
Resorts in Shimla
As one of the top destinations in India, Shimla has countless number of comfortable hotels and lodges. Most of them are built in Victorian style, are surrounded by placid mountain lakes, snowy hills, or green alpine meadows – making for a memorable stay.
Below are some of the more popular places to stay in the area…
- The Apple Blossom
- Hotel Honeymoon Inn
- Sunrise Villa
- The Oberoi Cecil
- Hotel Rock Sea
- Radisson Hotel Shimla
- Hotel Willow Banks
- Toshali Royal View
Places to Visit in Shimla
Visit the Jakhoo Temple
Of all the shimla tourist places the Jakhoo Temple is one of my personal favorites.
Jakhoo temple is a famous religious tourist spots and coming here is naturally one of the most popular activities to do in Shimla. It is located in the Jhaku hill, within the dense forests of Deodar.
To get to this area, you’ll have to make the trek from the Ridge at the Shimla centre. On the way, you may be greeted by curious monkeys. The temple is actually dedicated to the lord of the monkeys, Lord Hanuman. Views of the Sanjauli and Shivalik hills are stunning.
Summer Hill Shimla
The view from Summer Hill is unforgettable. During the Winter, the hill is covered in glimmering snow, and refreshingly cool during the Summer months. A perfect escape from city crowds.
In order to get to this area you’ll take the “toy train” – an amazing experience of its own. But be patient, as it takes a little time. This area once hosted Mahatma Gandhi at the mansion of Rajkumari Amrit Kaur.
Visit the Shimla Ridge
The Ridge is a must on your list of things to do in Shimla. If you’re looking for a cup of coffee after a long day of sightseeing or old British and Gothic architecture, this is the place to go.
It’s the hub of culture in Shilma. And connects to Scandal Point from one end then Lakkar Bazaar at the other. This is the place for festivals and big events, most notable being the Summer Festival.
Go Shopping on Mall Road
Mall Road is a bustling street in the center of Shimla. It is a great area for soaking in some of the local color. Here you’ll find numerous shops for clothes, local hand crafted goods, rugs, pottery, jewelry, and much more.
The best time to come and get the feel of the area is in the evening when most locals are out and about. If you are not into crowds but still want to experience the area, there are a variety of quiet cafes to watch the town walk by.
Take a Walk through Kuthar Fort
Kuthar Fort is located in the serene foothills of the Himalayas, there are numerous fresh-water springs in this area. It is also one of the best places to visit in Shimla if you’re a history buff.
The fort spans over 32 miles and is located in the middle of the exotic background, pools as well as the beautiful gardens.