Top 10 things to do in Shimla

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Shimla or Simla is the capital of the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, in the Himalayan foothills. It is located at an altitude of 2276 m (7238 ft). It is one of the most popular hill stations of India. I am listing top 10 things to do in Shimla:

Sunset from Mall road
Sunset from Mall road

1. Walk on the mall road:

Walking on the mall road must be the number one thing among the top 10 things to do in Shimla. There is no particular season to visit the mall road. Whether it is in the chill of winters with the moderate snowfall, or on the summer evening, or alongside carrying the umbrella in the breezes during monsoon. Certainly, it is always a treat.

Church, Mall road
Church, Mall road

2. Kalka Shimla toy train:

It is a very famous toy train which runs from Kalka to Shimla and is a delight to ride on. Away from the road traffic, you can always experience the serenity of Himalaya from this train. A must to do thing, keeping it on number two among the top 10 things to do in Shimla.

Kalka to Shimla Toy Train
Kalka to Shimla Toy Train

3. Himachal State Museum near Chaura Maidan:

Hundreds of years of well-preserved history of the Himalayan region can be found in this museum. Take 3-4 hours of your time and visit it whether you love history or not. It brings everyone near to the Himalayan and Himachal culture.

4. Army Heritage Museum Annadale:

Army heritage museum is a very popular picnic spot near the ridge. It teaches you the might of Indian soldiers and showcases the ancient weapons and ammunitions.

5. Indian Institue of Advance studies:

It was built as a Viceroy house in the late 19th century and later converted as the President’s house after independence. At last, in 1964 it was converted into the Institute. Since then, it has been the house of great scholars. You can visit the state museum and IIAS on the same day due to their close proximity to each other.

IIAS Shimla
IIAS Shimla

6. Jakhu temple:

Jakhu is the hilltop near the ridge, which have a very famous Hanuman temple. You can reach the temple by doing a moderate trek from the mall road, a taxi or by the government operated roapway. From the temple you can get a 360° view of most of the Shimla city and surrounding areas to faraway mountain ranges.

7. Kali bari temple:

This temple is located at walking distance from the mall road. It is a very famous temple amogst all the devotees. You can visit Mall Road, Jakhu and Kali Bari temple on the same day.

8. Kufri top:

Where do you get the snow first around Shimla in winter? Yes, it’s Kufri top. It is just 20 kms from Shimla main city. It has very famous ZOO as well. You can go horse riding on this hilltop. Actually, Kufri top is the most popular place to visit from Shimla.

9. Naldehra and Mashobra:

Naldehra and Mashobra are just an hour’s drive from Shimla. It is a very famous spot and due to its natural beauty, it is surrounded by very good hotels and resorts. Horse riding is very popular around the Naldehra golf course.

10. Chail palace:

Chail palace holds great historic value. A lot has been written about the Chail palace at many places. The palace is a treat to see, it has a big garden which is a very good picnic spot as well, it is also run as a heritage hotel.

There are many other attractions and places in and around Shimla. The whole place is surrounded by natural beauty. The above-mentioned things are a must to do while being in Shimla.

Shimla QoH Food Court

After a day spent exploring the winding lanes and panoramic viewpoints of Shimla, as the golden hue of the sun dips behind the Himalayan foothills, there is no finer way to unwind than a visit to the Shimla QoH Food Court. This culinary sanctuary, nestled among the city’s bustling streets, beckons travelers and locals alike with the promise of an epicurean adventure. Near the Lift, to the Mall, Cart Road, Shimla.

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