Shimla (Himachal Pradesh)

Submited on: 14th November 2011
By gbrijesh

Shimla has always been a great tourist attraction and is claimed as the summer capital of the state. The British have left some wonderful Victorian architecture that is reflected in certain areas of the Mall and The Ridge. Visitors choose to visit Shimla during spring or autumn, when the place is less crowded and the views are too spectacular for words. The mountain train from Kalka to Shimla offers stunning views, with the line passing through an amazing 103 tunnels. It’s a heart stopping view as it has the steepest rise in altitude in a distance of 96 km. It is also one of the major attractions for sport and adventure lovers. A traveler reviews this beautiful town as, ‘Is a picturesque place nestled in Himachal Pradesh. It is a perfect destination to relax away from the humdrum of city life. Yet another traveler states, ‘The sights of the mountains and trees and the clouds entering through your window will simply take your breath away. It is one of the quietest places to be at.’

Online booking for hotels in Shimla.
Amongst the seven hills of Shimla the Prospect Hill is home to the temple of Kamna Devi. The Ridge (North of The Mall) built at the top of the town is the center of Shimla\'s cultural and social life - an excellent place to view the surrounding mountains. The stain-glass windows, representing charity, faith, patience, hope, fortitude and humility, and the 19th century organ that dot the Christ Church, the second oldest church in Northern India are remarkable. The fresco that surrounds the chapel window is a standing significance of Victorian architecture. Annandale, just 2-km below the Ridge, offers a picturesque piece of ground, gracefully adapted for recreation in the days of the Raj. Today it bestows a pleasant change from the perpetual slopes above. Chadwick Falls lying 7-km west of the ridge was once the site of a 67-m aquatic spectacle. Tara devi is famous for the temple of Goddess of stars. This is a perfect site for people who are looking for some rest and peace at a high altitude of around 6070 ft. Jakhu Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman offers spectacular views of the mountains and the splendid town. The climb up is a physically demanding one-hour walk.

The Mall is the main shopping centre of Shimla.

As a traveler comments, 'Serene, quiet, majestic, nature's brilliance at it’s best. That\'s how I describe Shimla. Pristine beauty, a rainbow everyday and not just another rainbow. Fiery brilliance in its colors.’

Hotel Sangeet (Rs.1000), Hotel Sukh Sagar (Rs. 1350), Hotel Sunrise Villa (Rs.1200) and Hotel Honeymoon Inn (Rs. 3275) are some of the best rated Shimla hotels and are recommended by many travelers.
Related articles:

1. Shimla in 3 Days

Planning on visiting Shimla? Find out how to spend 3 days in Shimla and make the most out of your Shimla trip.
Submited on: 14th November 2011
By gbrijesh