🏔️ How to Start Traveling to Shimla – A Tourist Guide to Famous Places
Shimla, popularly known as the “Queen of Hills,” is one of India’s most loved hill stations. Once the summer capital of British India, this charming destination is now a favorite tourist spot for families, couples, and adventure seekers. From snow-capped mountains to bustling markets and peaceful temples, Shimla has it all.
If you are planning your first trip, this tourist guide will help you with everything—how to start traveling, the best time to visit, famous attractions, food, and travel tips.
🌟 Why Travel to Shimla?
Shimla is special because it offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you want to relax in the cool climate, enjoy adventurous activities, or explore colonial history, Shimla welcomes you warmly.
Highlights of Shimla:
- Pleasant weather throughout the year
- Scenic mountain views
- Heritage sites from the British era
- Adventure spots like Kufri & Mashobra
- Delicious Himachali food and shopping streets
🕒 Best Time to Visit Shimla
- Summer (March – June): Cool climate, perfect for sigh
tseeing - Monsoon (July – September): Beautiful green valleys, but risky due to landslides.
- Winter (October – February): Magical snowfall and skiing adventures.
👉 If you want to enjoy snow, December & January are the best months.
🚗 How to Reach Shimla
Shimla is easily accessible by air, train, and road.
- By Air: Nearest airport is Jubbarhatti (22 km away).
- By Train: The Kalka–Shimla Toy Train is a UNESCO heritage site and offers a scenic ride.
- By Road: Well-connected by buses, taxis, and self-drive cars from Delhi (350 km) and Chandigarh (120 km).
📍 Famous Tourist Places in Shimla
Here are some must-visit tourist attractions in Shimla that every traveler should explore:
1. The Ridge
The Ridge is Shimla’s most popular tourist spot. It’s an open space in the heart of the city, perfect for evening walks and breathtaking mountain views.
2. Mall Road
No visit is complete without exploring Mall Road. It’s the main shopping and dining street where tourists enjoy cafés, handicrafts, and local snacks.
3. Jakhoo Temple
Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, Jakhoo Temple is located at the highest point in Shimla. The giant Hanuman statue here is a major attraction for tourists.
4. Christ Church
Built in 1857, Christ Church is one of the oldest churches in North India. Its Gothic architecture and peaceful surroundings attract thousands of visitors.
5. Kufri
Located just 16 km away, Kufri is a paradise for tourists who love adventure. It’s famous for skiing, horse riding, and snow sports in winter.
6. Chadwick Falls
Hidden inside thick forests, Chadwick Falls is a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. It’s best visited during monsoon when the waterfall is at its fullest.
7. Green Valley
Known as one of the most photographed spots near Shimla, Green Valley is surrounded by pine and deodar trees with snowy mountains in the background.
8. Mashobra
For tourists who want peace away from the crowds, Mashobra is ideal. It’s great for camping, paragliding, and exploring apple orchards.
9. Toy Train Ride
The Kalka–Shimla Toy Train is a must-experience journey for tourists. Passing through tunnels and bridges, it offers stunning mountain views.
🍲 What Tourists Must Eat in Shimla
Tourists visiting Shimla should definitely try local Himachali dishes and street food:
- Chana Madra – Chickpeas cooked in yogurt.
- Dham – A traditional Himachali thali.
- Sidu – A steamed bread stuffed with fillings.
- Babru – A Himachali-style kachori.
- Momos & Soup – Perfect evening snack on Mall Road.
🏨 Where Tourists Can Stay in Shimla
Shimla offers plenty of accommodation options:
- Luxury Hotels: Oberoi Cecil, Radisson Jass.
- Mid-range Hotels: Honeymoon Inn, Willow Banks.
- Budget Stays: Hostels, guesthouses, and homestays in and around Shimla.
🎒 Travel Tips for Tourists in Shimla
- Carry warm clothes, even in summer evenings.
- Walk around instead of using taxis to explore the real charm.
- Avoid traveling during heavy rains due to landslides.
- Book hotels in advance during peak season (summer & winter holidays).
- Respect local culture and keep the hill station clean.
🗓️ Suggested Tourist Itinerary (3 Days)
- Day 1: The Ridge, Mall Road, Christ Church, Jakhoo Temple.
- Day 2: Kufri, Green Valley, Mashobra.
- Day 3: Chadwick Falls, Toy Train Ride, Shopping at Lakkar Bazaar.
📝 Conclusion
Shimla is not just a hill station—it’s a complete tourist experience of natural beauty, colonial history, delicious food, and adventure. From walking along Mall Road to skiing in Kufri or enjoying sunsets at The Ridge, Shimla offers something unique for every traveler.
So pack your bags, plan your trip, and let the Queen of Hills welcome you with open arms.