Tourist places in and around Shimla
Udaipur (2743 m)
In olden times this village was known as Markul and so the name of local goddess is Markula Devi. The temple here is unique and famous for its wooden carving on its roof and ceiling. Raja Udai Singh of Chamba changed its name. This place is situated near the confluence of Chenab and Mayar Nallah. This place is therefore a starting point for Mayar valley and further on to Zanskar and other peaks. This is a green area rather the whole Chenab valley is greener than the Lahaul valley. It has a rest house and some hotels and is a good resting place. Some years back the road was only up to this point and from here the trekking expeditions to different areas used to start. Now the road is under construction beyond this place and the bus is goes upto Tindi. This road has now been connected up to Killar, which is the meeting point of another roads; one from Kishtwar (J&K) and from Chamba over the Sach pass.Christ Church
Built in 1846- 1857, Christ Church is the second oldest church of Northern India. The Church's exquisite beauty comes with the stained glasses that are fitted on its windows.Situated on the Ridge is Christ Church, which is the second oldest church in Northern India. It has a very majestic appearance and inside it are stained glass windows which represent faith, hope, charity,fortitude, patience and humility.
The second oldest church in northern India was built between 1846 and 1857 and is one of the major landmarks of the town. It is set on the edge of the Ridge and noted for its Neo-gothic architecture and immense historical value.
Himachal State Museum & Library (3 km)
The museum opens daily except on Mondays and public holidays, It has got a good collection of ancient historical sculptures, painting, coins, photos and other items from all over the state as well as outside. It has also got a library, which houses many historical books and manuscripts.The Museum, which was opened in 1974, has tried to project the hill-out and the cultural wealth of the state. There is a collection of miniature Pahari paintings, sculptures, bronzes wood-carvings and also costumes, textiles and jewellery of the region.
Very close to the Institute, in a colonial building set in spacious lawns, is the museum. It has collections of Pahari miniatures, stone sculpture, local handicrafts, textiles and embroidery.
The Mall
This is the main shopping center of Shimla with restaurants. The Gaiety Theatre, on the mall is a reproduction of an old British theatre is a center of cultural activities.The Mall is the main shopping centre of Shimla. It also has many restaurants, clubs, banks, bars, post offices and tourist offices. The Gaiety Theatre is also situated here. People walk up and down the Mall slowly, stopping to chat, as it is the main metting place for everyone. The Ridge and the Scandal point are the two main meeting points at the Mall.
The Mall Road his main shopping area shopping area of shimla is also with fine eating out places. The Gaiety Theatre here is a replica of an old British theatre and is the cultural hub of shimla. No vehicular traffic is allowed on the ridge, Mall road and Lakkar Bazar. A passenger lift run by HPTDC links the Cart Road and the Mall.
All visitors to Shimla inevitably walk down the Mall, the main promenade that runs along the top of the ridge - a busy shopping area with old colonial buildings, souvenir shops and restaurants. At the top end of the Mall is Scandal Point, a large open square with a view of the town - a favourite rendezvous for visitors and the local people. Overlooking it is the elegant Christ Church with its fine stained glass windows. The labyrinth of Shimla's bazaars spill over the edge of the Mall.
Lakkar Bazaar
It lies near the ridge and is popular for wood articles and souvenirs. The roller skating rink here is also visited by the tourists.Kali Bari Temple
It lies near the Scandal Point towards General Post Office. The idol of Goddess shimla is enshrined here.Jakhu Hill
Shimla's highest Peak, this is situated 2 km from the town. One can have a breathtaking view of Shimla from here. A Hanuman Temple is also found on this peack.Jakhu Hills is situated at about 2km. from Shimla, at a height of 8000ft. It is the highest peak and offers a beautiful view of the town and of the snow-covered Himalayas. At the top of the hill, is an old temple of Hanuman, which is also the home of countless playful monkeys waiting to be fed by visitors.
The steep climb to Jakhoo Hill, Shimla's highest point, is rewarding for superb views of the town and its surroundings. At the top is an old Hanuman temple. (2 km / 1.2 mile)
Viceregal Lodge & Botanical Gardens (4 km)
This magnificent building was the residence of the British viceroy Lord Dufferin. This lodge was completed in 1888 and it is said that every brick for the building was carried by mules. This is a six- storey building and is surrounded by well- maintained gardens and lawns. The lodge has now been converted into institute of Advanced Study.Housed in the Gothic splendour of the Viceregal Lodge is the Indian Institute of Advanced studies, India's premier academy for higher research.
Jakhoo Temple (2,5 km)
The Lord Hanuman shrine set atop the Jakhoo Hill (2455 metres), the highest peak of shimla. It affords breath taking views of shimla and its surrounding. The temple can be reached on foot from the ridge near Christ church. A pony or taxi can also be hired to reach the shrine.State Museum (3kms): It lies on the western edge of the town and exhibits ancient sculptures and ‘Pahari' miniature paintings of the state.
Indian Institute of Advanced Studies (4 km)
this prestigious institute established in 1964 is housed in the old vice regal Lodge, one of the finest British colonial buildings. The structure was built in 1888 and is a fine blend of scottish Boronial and English renaissance architectural styles. Its interiors are noted for excellent woodwork and were the first building with electric light in shimla. The Vice regal Lodge was the summer seat of British government till 1940's.This magnificent English renaissance structure was the former Viceregal Lodge. Its lawns and woodlands are added attractions. Entry by ticket.
Prospect Hill
It is crowned by a temple dedicated to Kamna Devi. Sunrise and the moon are spectacular sights from here.A 15 minute climb from Boileauganj, Prospect Hill is another favorite walk and vantage point with breath-taking views. There is little temple to Kamna Devi on the top of the hill (5 km/3 mile)
The Ridge
The large open space in the heart of town presents excellent view of the mountain ranges.Summer Hill (4 km)
This hill is a picturesque spot on Shimla- Kalka Railway line offering shady walks in quiet surroundings. It has a beautiful temple of Goddess Taradevi.Summer Hill is situated at a distance of 5 km. from the Ridge. It is a lovely township at a height of 6,500ft. on the Shimla-Kalka railway line. Mahatma Gandhi lived in these quiet surroundings during his visits to Shimla. The Himachal Pradesh University is also situated here.
The quiet and lovely suburb of Summer Hill has secluded, shady walks and charming views. It was here that Gandhiji stayed on his visits to Shimla, in the elegant Gergorian mansion that belonged to Rajkumari Amrit Kaur. Summer Hill is located on the Shimla - Kalka railway line. (5 km / 3 mile)
The Glen (4 km)
At 1830m, this is a thickly wooded ravine through which a stream flows. It is a popular picnic spot.A pretty picnic spot beyond Annandale is located in the thickly wooded Glen, beside a sparkling stream. (4 km / 2.4 mile)
Sankat Mochan (7 km)
This is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman.On the Shimla - Kalka road is the famous "Lord Hanuman" temple. It commands an excellent view of Shimla town. The place can be reached by Bus/Taxi. (7 km)
Annandale
Developed as the playground of Shimla, Annandale is about 2-4km. from the Ridge at a height of about 6,117ft. It is a favourite spot for cricket, picnics and the princely game of polo.Tara Devi
Tara Devi is situated around 11 km. from the Shimla bus-stand. Tara Devi has a temple dedicated to the Goddess of Stars on top of the hill. There is a Military Dairy Town here as well as the headquaeters of Bharat Scouts and Guides.Himalayan Bird Park
Situated 11 km from the Mall road, this park is a natural habitat of numerous species of rare birds found in Himachal.Chadwick falls (7 km)
This is an ideal picnic spot, it is surrouned by thick forests and waterfalls.Just beyond Summer Hill is the 67 m waterfall, cascading into a deep gorge. The Falls are best seen after the monsoon. (7 km/4 mile) A Devi Temple On Shimla - Kalka road (NH-22) this holy place is accessible by Rail, bus and car. From the station/road-one can visit the temple either on foot or by taxi / jeep. (11 km)
Around Shimla
Chail (45 km)
This idyllic resort, set amidst scented forests of pine and deodar, was once the summer resort of the maharajas of Patiala. Located on a wooded spur, Chail overlooks the Sutlej Valley. Shimla and Kasauli are also visible and at night their twinkling lights seem part of the starlit sky. The palace of the maharajas, built in the late 19th century and the pretty cottages of the complex - that once accommodated the ADCs and guests of the royal party - are now part of a charming holiday resort. Chail has lovely walks and trails that meander through the dense pine forests - the home of barking deer, wild boar, pheasant and a variety of birds. Forest rest houses make overnight halts possible. For those interested in sports, Chail has fine tennis and squash courts and a putting green. There are excellent spots along the River Gaura with opportunities for anglers to tangle with the Himalayan mahaseer. Chail has also the highest cricket ground in the world - 2250 m above sea level.Another scenic sport where spot where the river Asani flows. This adds to its beauty. The world's highest cricket field is situated here. A story goes that due to some differences, the British had forbidden the maharaja of Patiala from going to Shimla. Therefore, he laid the foundation for the town of Chail and since loved the game of cricket, a field was specially laid.
This wooded ridge was the summer capital of the Maharajas of Patiala. This tiny hill station is dominated by pine forests and the Chail Palace overlooks from a flattened top. This Palace is now converted into a hotel. Nearby is the world's highest cricket Pitch. Chail is about 45 km from Shimla and a picturesque road leads to it.
The tiny hill resort amidst verdant forest was established by Maharaja Bhupinder singh of Patiala, after he was banned to enter shimla by Lord Kitchner in 1891. Chail sparawls over three hills atop the Rajgarh Hill is the palace; Old Residency ‘Show View' on the Pandava Hill and siddh Tibba is known for the temple of Baba sidhnath.
The Palace: the magnificent green-roofed palace amidst thick deodar trees was built in 1891. It has been converted into a premium Heritage hotel.
Cricket Ground: It was built atop a hill in 1893 at an elevation of 2444 metres and is the highest cricket and polo ground in the work.
Chail wildlife Sanctuary: Key fauna-choral, barking, deer, sambar, red jungle fowl, khalij and cheer pheasants.
Kufri (16 km)
Kufri is also called the "Chinese Bungalow". Many games are organized here from February to March. In winter one can ski on its snow- covered slopes and in the summer have a raid on the back of the Yak. Kufri is well known for its natural scenic beauty.Kufri is situated around 16km. from Shimla at a height of 8,600ft. Kufri is the winter sports capital. During winter, visitors have the facility for skiing. The skiing season is at its best during January and February. Equipment for sking is available from the HPTDC Winter Sports Club at Kufri. Apart from skiing, Kufri is a lovely picnic spot with a beautiful view of the hills around and the snowy peaks. There is also a zoo that delights children.
the tiny picturesque hamlet is very popular among tourists. During winters a large number of winter sports enthusiast flock to this fine skiing resort. There is also a small zoo. The Himalayan Nature Park here provides eco-treks and camping site. Fagu (22kms) the scenic site lies on the Hindustan-Tibet road.
Mashobra (12 km)
At 2149m, this beautiful suburb is surrouned by thick forest. From here, a track leads down to Sipur which is an exquisite glade shaded by ancient deodar trees. There are old temples on a side and a fair is held every April.Mashobra is located 13km. away from Shimla. Mashobra several excellent picnic spots. It is the site of the annual Sipi fair in June. The nearest rest house is at Craignano which is about 3km. from Mashobra.
It is surrounded by thick forests and is known for the Goddess durga temple.
Noted for its apple orchards and thick woods of oak and pine, Mashobra is a sylvan retreat with pretty walks and picnic spots. A little track leads down to Sipur a grassy glade with a stream wandering thorough it. Excursions are possible to Shali Peak - the highest point in the area or to Craignano ( 3 km/2 mile) with its elegant guest house set in a delightful flower-filled garden.
Naldehra (22 km)
It has the oldest golf course in India. The pine and deodar add to its beauty.Naldehra is situated about 22 km. from Shimla, and surrounded by beautiful deodar trees. It has a well kept nine-hole golf-course. Naldehra is a lovely, popular picnic spot. The annual sipi fair in June is held in Naldehra.
the abode of Lord Nal is known for the thick cedar forest and world's highest nine whole par 68 golf course. An ancient Nag temple is also located here.
The scenic, nine hole golf course with its springy turf and crown of deodar was laid out at the instance of the Viceroy, lord Curzon. So enamoured was he by the beauty of the spot, that he named his youngest daughter Alexandra Naldera. Ancient Nag temple is also situated here. Himachal Tourism runs Hotel Golf Glade here.
Narkanda (60 km)
Located about 64 km from Shimla, Narkanda stands at an altitude of 2750 m. Here you get a closer look at the Himalayan peaks as you walk through dense spruce, fir and high altitude oak forests. The area around Narkanda is lush with aple orchards and in winter, the slopes are ideal fro skiing.The charming skiing resort affords breath taking views. The Hatu Peak (8 km) and ancient shrine of Hatu Mata worth visiting for spectacular views.
A hill road with superb views links Narkanda with Shimla. Narkanda, located amidst fragrant pine forests is a ski resort in winter. It has a choice of slopes ranging from a beginners run and a slalom slope, to sharper descents for the experienced skier.
Fagu (22 km)
It is located 2,510 mts. above sea level. Winter is extremely beautiful here. Dense forest and apple orchards have their unique attraction. The snow- capped mountains can hold anyone spell- bound.On Hindustan-Tibet Road. It has enchanting views. Himachal Tourism runs the Hotel peach Blossom.
Tattapani ((65 km)
At 656 m, there is hot sulphur springs here. This small village 28 km. From Naldehra is known for hot water spring and temples.Tattapani is just 28 km from Naldehra, along a road winding through the scenic countryside. The hot sulphur springs here, are noted for their invigorating and curative powers.
Sarahan
Once the summer capital of the Rampur Bushahr Kings, Sarhan is perched high above the left bank of river Satluj. The most intereting site here is the Bhimkali Temple cum palace complex. The temple, dating back to 7th century, has carved balconies, silver doors and tower shrines.On Hindustan Tibet Road from Jeori Sarahan is (17 km) with spectacular view of Srikhand range. Sarahan has the majestic Bhimkali Temple. Himachal Tourism runs Hotel Shrikhand. Saharan is the gateway to Kinnaur. A Pheasant Breading Centre and stadium are worth visiting.