Shimla or Simla, Capital of Himachal Pradesh, India

Shimla or Simla is one of the most famous tourist destinations of India. It is located in the State of Himachal Pradesh as its Capital. The name of this hill station derives from the goddess " Shyamla", who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Kali. The luck of this hill station started with the discovery of the place by the British who played romance with its beauty and went to the extent of declaring the city as their summer capital. The status of capital remained up till now, though under various status. After the British summer Capital, it became the capital of undivided State of Punjab. After that, when the state of Himachal Pradesh was formed, Shimla became its capital. Thus, this small hill station surrounded by the Himalayan ranges always remained as a Capital city. I am very happy to mention that I and my wife stayed in one of those historic, heritage buildings called The Grand Hotel of the British era, now used as Holiday Homes by the Government of India for the parliamentarians, employees and others. But rates are different according to the different categories. This and many other heritage buildings certify that Shimla still retains its original charm and beauty. Natural beauty, calm and cool atmosphere is the identification of Shimla. 

In addition, as in any other place, there are some notable places of interest in and around Shimla:

1.            The Ridge road is a large open space, located in the heart of Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, India. The Ridge is the hub of all cultural activities of Shimla. It is situated along the Mall Road, which is the famous shopping center of Shimla. Most major places of Shimla like Snowdon, Mall, Jakhoo hill, etc. are connected through the Ridge.

2.            Mall Road is the main street in Shimla. It is constructed during British colonial rule. The Mall road  is at a level below the ridge road.

3.            Scandal point is the place where the Mall road joins Ridge road. There is a love story behind the name Scandal point. In short, the story tells that the then Maharaja of Patiala had eloped with the daughter of the British Viceroy from this place. Following this, the Maharaja was prohibited from entering Shimla by the British authorities. But the Maharaja equally countered the move by setting up a new summer capital in the nearby place called Chail, about 45 km from Shimla. It is now a famous hill resort and tourist place.

4.            Kali Bari Temple: The temple is situated near to The Mall and is 5 minutes walk from The Mall. The temple is dedicated to Shyamala Devi (Shimla is named after this goddess), an incarnation of Goddess Kali. The temple witness heavy rush during the Diwali and Durga Puja seasons as many outside pilgrims throng to this temple in addition to normal tourists.

5.            Churches:  Built in 1846-1857, Christ Church is the second oldest church of Northern India. The Church overlooks the Ridge and is one of the landmarks of Shimla. The clocks on Christ Church were added later but none of them are functional now. The Church's exquisite beauty comes with the stained glasses that are fitted on its windows. One can have a look inside the church, or attend English-language services. From the side of this Church, the steps towards the Jakhu Hill Temple starts.The town's other important church is the Roman Catholic Church, which is just below road of the Mall.

6.            Jakhu Hill and Temple: 2 km from Shimla, at a height of about 8500 ft. Jakhu Hill is the highest peak in Shimla and offers a beautiful view of the town and of the snow-covered Himalayas and a delight for tourists. At the top of the Hill, there is also an old temple of Lord Hanuman, which is also the home of countless monkeys. Many Pilgrims feed these monkeys. There is a 108 ft. statue of Lord Hanuman, a Hindu deity, outside the temple. It is considered to be the highest statue to stand at this high altitude. Please go through the video scene I captured from the Jakhu temple complex:

7.            Shri Sankat Mochan temple is situated at a distance of about 5 K.m from Shimla and is on the Kalka- Shimla National Highway.  This temple is very easily approachable by car. It is liked by the devotees and pilgrims. For the tourists it gives a beautiful view of the Shimla City and the Jakhu Temple overlooking at the opposite side.

8.            Indian Institute of Advanced Study: This institute is housed at the former Viceregal Lodge, once used as the summer residence of the Viceroy. Nearby to it there is a small zoo housing birds. Most of the birds are left in the open without cages.

9.          Naldehra: Naldehra is a well maintained Golf course. Surrounding Himalayan Ranges and thick forest of giant deodar trees, make it a unique spot for picnics. Regular bus and taxi service is available to the spot. But from there you have to either walk or take horse journey to see the Golf course and two temples inside.

10.          Kufri: Well known for its slopes which gives good views of the Himalayan ranges. There is a Himalayan Nature Park in the area and a mini zoo has been set up in this Park. Rare breeds of wild animals and pheasant species commonly found in Himalayan forest region have been kept here in a natural habitat.

11.          Lakkar Bazar: Lakkar bazar is famous for fancy items including local products of Shimla. It includes rural products, woolen and wood products at attractive bargaining rates. Here blanket etc. made out of Yak wool is also available. It is very cheap, but rough than the wool from  sheep. 

The terrain of Shimla is very steep so many roads are very narrow. Hence, one has to walk up and down particularly in the nearby areas of the Ridge/Mall where motor vehicles are totally prohibited, except the emergency vehicles.

Shimla is conveniently connected by Rail and Road. Air journey is not convenient.

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