Shimla, India - Travel Guide

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas is the charming indian hill station of Shimla. The year round agreeable climate was cherished by the British Raj who moved their entire administrative centre each summer here to escape the oppressive summer heat of Delhi.

 

This annual decampment brought a little slice of traditional England to an already stunning geographical location. Visitors will discover that Shimla has more to offer than nostalgia to its long decorated history with a great relaxed atmosphere in part due to the fresh air and fantastic scenery of pine covered mountains.

Visitors seeking a location to relax, unwind and forget about the travails of travelling in India could be find Shimla the ideal city to visit. Visitors Plan to stay only a few days in Shimla but tend to stay much longer. Let us here at 2Weekbackpack.com be your tourist guide to discover is beautiful and charming city that once ruled the whole of the Indian subcontinent.

tourist Sights of Shimla

The Ridge, the centre piece of Shimla which is wide traffic free and provides spectacular views of the Himalayas. The shops, restaurants and government buildings were constructed during the British Raj colonel era and the front facades are of mock-tudor commonly found through England but not India.

Mall Road

The Mall Road is the shopping district of Shimla with its varied selection of goods ranging from expensive designer items to lowest cost local handicraft. As with all Indian cities haggle well to achieve the best price.

Christ Church

Christ Church is situated on the east end of The Ridge, it is the second oldest church in northern India. The church was constructed in the British neo-classical style, but unlike any British church it has been painted bright yellow.

Monkey Temple and Jakhu Hill

Monkey Temple and Jakhu Hill are to the east of the Ridge. Jakhu hill is 2500m high and provides excellent views across Shimla. The temple is dedicated to Hanuman (the monkey god) and aptly the temple and grounds are “protected” by aggressive  monkeys. The monkeys inspect every tourist for food on the walk up the hill. It is advised to hire a defensive stick to keep the monkeys away!

The Viceroy Lodge and Summer Hill

The Viceroy Lodge is the stately residence of the British Viceroy. It was here that the independence document for India was formally signed. It is a beautiful old house set amidst well maintained gardens.

Shimla State Museum

Collection includes sculptures, bronzes, wood-carvings, textiles and jewellery of the region.