Shimla Map

Introduction

Shimla, was the Summer capital of India under British rule . Presently, it is the state capital of Himachal Pradesh, with its population around 1.6 lacs (Shimla town only). Shimla has seen many important historical events such as the famous Shimla Pact between India & Pakistan which was signed here. The place is also famous for its natural beauty, architectural buildings, wooden crafts and apples. Shimla abounds in natural bounty and looks picture perfect. The small hill station amidst the lofty snow-clad Himalayan ranges, surrounded by lakes and lush green pastures look as though an artist has painted them. The unique thing about Shimla is that it still retains its colonial charm and this creates an ambience that is not found anywhere else in India. Shimla is one tourist destination that can be visited any time during the year. Summers are warm with cool and pleasant evenings while winters are bone chilling and the temperatures can fall below zero. But this difference is what makes Shimla all the more special.


Area 18 sq km
Altitude 2,130 metres above sea level
Temperature Summer-12.0 C-29.0 C Winter-0.0 C-16.0 C
Language Hindi, Himachali, English
STD Code 0177
Rainfall __ cm average yearly
Best Time to Visit Round the year

How to get there

  1. Air :- Shimla is connected by daily Vayudoot flights from Delhi and Kullu. The airport, located at Jubbarhatti, is 23 km from Shimla. Indian Airlines too regularly maintains it flight to jubbarhatti which on regular season time increases its flight to six days a week.
  2. Rail:-Shimla is also connected with a broad gauge railway line upto Kalka and after that by a narrow line from where a small train usually called toy train. Kalka to Shimla is 95 km and though the journey takes about 6 hours, the train winds its way through 103 tunnels, and some picturesque scenery. Railcar take about 4 hours. Kalka has direct rail connections with Delhi, Calcutta and Amritsar.
  3. Road:-Shimla is connected by road with Kalka, Chandigarh, Delhi, Amritsar, Jammu and with many towns in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana.

Places to Visit


Jakhu Temple Chirst Chursh The Mall Viceregal Lodge
Himachal Museum

Excursion


Kufri Narkanda Chail Kasauli

Shopping

The hub of Shimla is the 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. The Ridge is a large open space in the heart of the town and presents excellent views of the mountain ranges. Most of Shimla's landmarks are located here. Being the state capital, handicrafts from all over the state come here for sale. The Mall has some of the good and big names in the garment and textile industry. The State emporium on the Mall offers many handicrafts and handloom items, which are made by the artisans of Himachal. The famous Himachali hat comes in different rates and vivid colors. Lakkar Bazaar is famous for items made from wood. These decorative wooden items are made from the softwood found in the hilly region. Further, dry fruits and natural herbs, which have many medicinal properties, are also easily available in the shops.

Accommodation


Hotel Chapslee Palace Shilon Resort The Cecil Oberoi Resort Hotel Combermere
Hotel Asia The Dawn Hotel Woodville Palace Clark's Hotel Hotel Wildflower Hall