Best Places To Visit In Shimla | Tourist Places In Himachal Pradesh

   

Shimla known as Queen of Hills is located in north-west Himalayas which is surrounded by pine and deodar forests. Shimla is the Capital of Himachal Pardesh and is one of the most popular tourist destination among the travelers around the world. The city was named after the Hindu Goddess Shyamala Devi, came into existence in 1819 and was Summer Capital of British India.This beautiful hill station offers a lot for shopping opportunities of cultural handicraft and handloom items for the travelers. The local Lakkar Bazaar is the one stop market for the dry fruits, natural herbs and crafts made of wood. Shimla are very well known for their fine quality shawls, leather craft comprises shoes, Bags and belts. The other arts and crafts of Shimla include a huge collection of beaded and metal jewellery.The people of Shimla are informally called Shimlaites. A variety of festivals are celebrated here. The Summer Festival of Shimla is held on the Ridge. It is celebrated every year during peak tourist season and last for 4-5 days. State museum is another spot where collection of Jewellery, paintings and other historical things of the region are kept. Carpet making at  Shimla is a great attraction for visitors. Ice skating in Shimla is another attraction among the visitors which starts in the winter season from December to February. The city has sporting venues like a golf course at Annadale and Naldehra  Kufri is a ski resort which is located 19 kilometres from the city.Shimla has many temples like Kali Bari temple, which is dedicated to the goddess Kali is near the Mall. Jakhoo Temple which is dedicated to Hindu god Hanuman is located about 2 km from The Ridge. Sankat Mochan temple is another Hanuman temple which is located about 10 kilometres from the city.Rituals and festivals are performed at the Tara Devi temple.

1. The Ridge

The Ridge is a open space which is situated near the Mall Road where all the cultural activities of the city is performed. State Library and Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex are oar the main attraction of the Ridge. Christ Church on the Ridge is one of the oldest church in Northern India where stained glass windows that represent faith, hope and humanity.

2. The Mall

The mall is located near the Ridge and Scandal Point. The Mall is the heart and activity center of Shimla. The main shopping street of Shimla. It has many restaurants, clubs, banks, bars, post offices, and tourist offices. The lower part of Gaiety Theatre lies here.The area has several emporiums, showrooms, restaurants and Gaiety Theatre. It is the main center for cultural activities in the city. This place is the venue  Summer Festival, Ice-skating competitions and Winter Carnival.

3. Jakhoo Temple

Jakhoo Jakhoo temple is situated about 2 km from the Ridge. The temple is located at hill top which has tallest statue of Hanuman which is 108 ft tall. This statue can be seen from everywhere within Shimla city. It is said that Hanuman has landed on this hill while carrying Dronagiri parvat. Due to this the height of jakhoo hill is reduced. The temple has been surrounded by pine and deodar forests where you can get some beautiful views of Shimla city. Jakhoo temple is connected with Ridge by a ropeway which enhances the experience of travelers.

4. Annadale

Annadale was developed as the race course of Shimla, Annadale is about 4 km from the Ridge at a height of 6,117 ft.  It has the Army Heritage Museum which is notable tourist destination on its own, and also a golf course and a helipad is situated here. Annadale is one of the prime tourist sites of Shimla. Annadale is the main attraction for cricket and polo lovers and travelers around the world visit here to explore it.

5.Hatu Peak

Narkanda is situated over Sutlej valley at an altitude of 3400 meters which is one of the highest peaks near Shimla. To reach Hatu we have to travel a distance of 64 km from Shimla to Narkanda and then there is 8 km trek which can be covered by walk through a dense forest  of oak or by taking taxi from Narkanda . At the top of the mountain a temple of goddess kali is situated which is made up of wood. The scenic view from the top of the mountain makes the track worthy one.

6. Indian Institute Of Advanced Study

Indian Institute of Advanced Studies formerly known as Viceregal Lodge and Rashtrapati Niwas is located in Shimla hills The building is constructed in 1888. This building has witnessed many historical events. The building has been open for visitors. All visitors have to pay a minor fee to visit this amazing building. This building draws inspiration from English and Scotish architectural style. This building is now used as home if Indian Institute Of Advanced Studie. It is surrounded by huge pine trees and beautiful gardern which is the main attraction among the visitors from all over the world. It is must visit attraction point at shimla.

7. Toy Train

The Kalka to Shimla route is a narrow-gauge railway line that connects Shimla, to Kalka. The Kalka- Simla train route has been recognized by the UNESCO as one of the World Heritage Sites of Mountain Railways of India. Also, this route has recorded its name in the Guinness Book of World Records for offering the steepest rise in altitude in a railway route in a mere 96-kilometre distance. The toy train covers 96 km which can take upto 4-5 hours. Toy train passes through 102 tunnels and 87 bridges along with rivers waterfall and dense green forests. There are 5 trains that ply from kalka to shimla on all day of the weak.