Shimla is the capital of the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, in the Himalayan foothills. Once the summer capital of British India, it remains the terminus of the narrow-gauge Kalka-Shimla Railway, completed in 1903. It’s also known for the handicraft shops that line The Mall, a pedestrian avenue, as well as the Lakkar Bazaar, a market specializing in wooden toys and crafts. In 1864 Shimla was declared as the summer capital of India. After Independence, Shimla became the capital of Punjab and was later named the capital of Himachal Pradesh. In 1903 a rail line was constructed between Kalka and Shimla. Shimla has been blessed with all the natural bounties.
Elevation: 2,276 m
Avg. annual temperature: 17 °C (63 °F)
Climate: Cwb
District: Shimla
Named for: Sri Shyamala Devi
The best time to visit Shimla is from May to June and December to January when romance and beauty are baked into every inch of the soil here. Clear blue skies in summer, sprinkles of powdery snow in the winter, the spicy and earthy scent carried by pines, firs, cedars, and oak trees.
The best season to visit Shimla for snow is the winter season, which is between November and February. Snowfall season in Shimla begins in late December and lasts through February. One of the major attractions in Shimla is the Mall Road.
Adventure Activities: Shimla offers various adventure activities, including trekking, hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding. Nearby areas like Kufri and Chail are known for winter sports.
Shopping: Shimla is a shopper's paradise with a wide range of handicrafts, woolen clothes, and local souvenirs available in Lakkar Bazaar and Mall Road.
Local Cuisine: Try Himachali cuisine, known for dishes like Chana Madra, Dham, and Babru, and don't miss sampling the famous Chai and Pakoras.
Festivals: Shimla celebrates various festivals with enthusiasm, including Diwali, Christmas, and the Summer Festival, which showcases local culture and traditions.
Connectivity: Shimla is well-connected by road and can be reached from major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. The Kalka-Shimla Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a scenic train journey to the city.
Accommodation: Shimla offers a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels and resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay for all types of travelers.
Shimla's blend of natural beauty, colonial heritage, and cultural vibrancy make it a captivating destination for tourists seeking a peaceful getaway in the lap of the Himalayas.
The Ridge
A spacious open area offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills, colonial
buildings, and various cultural events.
Mall Road:
A vibrant shopping and dining area lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants,
perfect for leisurely strolls.
Christ Church
An iconic neo-Gothic church known for its stunning stained glass windows
and architecture.
Jakhu Temple
Located on Jakhu Hill, it's dedicated to Lord Hanuman and offers a scenic trek
and panoramic views of Shimla.
Summer Hill
A serene spot where Mahatma Gandhi stayed during his visits to Shimla.
Lakkar Bazar
Lakkar Bazaar in Shimla, India, is famed for wooden handicrafts and
souvenirs. Visitors can find walking sticks, furniture, and handmade
items. It's a cultural hub for Himachali craftsmanship, offering scenic
views, local snacks, and a chance to explore and shop for unique souvenirs.
Madra is a traditional Himachali dish, often prepared during festivals and special occasions. It's a creamy and aromatic dish made with soaked and boiled chickpeas, yogurt, and a blend of spices. The key ingredients include chickpeas, yogurt, asafoetida, cumin seeds, cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. The dish is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a rich and flavorful gravy.
Thukpa is known for its versatility, and there are regional variations in its preparation. It's a comforting and filling dish, making it a popular choice, especially in the cold, mountainous regions of India and Tibet. Whether you prefer a vegetarian or meaty version, Thukpa is a delightful and nourishing soup enjoyed by many.
Chicken Anardana is a delicious North Indian dish known for its tangy and slightly sweet flavor profile. The name "Anardana" refers to dried pomegranate seeds (anar means pomegranate and dana means seeds in Hindi), which are a key ingredient in this dish.
Sidu is a traditional steamed bread or dumpling from the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, particularly popular in the regions of Kinnaur and Shimla. It is a type of stuffed bread made from wheat flour dough and is typically served with ghee (clarified butter) and a variety of side dishes
5. Mash Daal
Mash Daal, also known as Urad Daal or Black Gram, is a type of lentil commonly used in Indian cuisine. It is known for its creamy texture and earthy flavor.
Chha Gosht, also known as Chhena Gosht or Chhena Mutton, is a traditional Kashmiri dish hailing from the northernmost region of India, Jammu and Kashmir. It is a flavorful and aromatic mutton (goat meat) curry prepared with a combination of spices and yogurt, which is characteristic of Kashmiri cuisine
