Best Places to Visit in Shimla
1. Mall Road
If you're driving to Shimla, you can leave your vehicle near the highway and take the elevator that leads directly to Mall Road. Alternatively, you can walk. The lift is chargeable, and no vehicles are allowed on Mall Road except for ambulances. Town Hall, located on Mall Road, looks spectacular at night when illuminated. Scandal Point, located at the end of Mall Road, is a lively meeting spot known for its panoramic views and vibrant atmosphere. Why the name Scandal Point? Legend has it that Maharaja Bhupinder Singh (or his father Rajindra Singh) eloped with the Viceroy's daughter here, though historians dispute this story. From here, The Ridge begins, and you can admire a beautiful church. Watch out for the monkeys—they are often. searching for food in visitors' hands. Don't skip the famous toy train ride—it’s a charming experience you can book like any regular train. The journey from Kalka to Shimla takes approximately 5–6 hours, depending on the train. While you're there, explore Lower Bazaar and visit the historic Kali Bari Temple, located just a kilometer from Mall Road.
Things to Do
- Stroll along the colonial-era promenade lined with shops and cafés.
- Shopping for Himachali handicrafts, woolens, and local souvenirs.
- Visit the historic Gaiety Theatre and Christ Church nearby.
Nearest Attractions
- Jakhoo Temple – ~2 km
- Christ Church – ~0.2 km
- The Ridge – ~0.3 km
2. Jakhoo Temple
Perched on Jakhoo Hill, Jakhoo Temple is accessible via a short trek or by taxi, offering both spiritual serenity and panoramic views of Shimla. You can also reach it from Sanjauli or Navbahar, where the route is beautiful, winding through dense forests. The temple is famous for its 108-ft statue of Lord Hanuman ji, the Pawan Dev, which overlooks Shimla. An interesting feature of Jakhoo Temple is its large monkey population. Monkeys snatch items from visitors, but they return them when you offer Prasad or any edible item.
Things to Do
- Visit the ancient Hanuman temple atop Jakhoo Hill.
- Trek or take a ropeway ride to the hilltop.
- Enjoy panoramic views of Shimla and the surrounding Himalayan ranges.
Nearest Attractions
- Mall Road – ~2 km
- The Ridge – ~1.5 km
- Christ Church – ~1.8 km
Exploring time: 1 - 2 hours
3. Mashobra
For those seeking a peaceful retreat, Mashobra is the perfect offbeat spot, about 13 km from Shimla. Local transportation, including buses and taxis, is easily available for getting around Shimla. You can visit the Talai Temple here, and the route is scenic and serene. From the Talai Temple, you can travel. To the Tara Devi Temple, which is approximately 11 km away. Nearby, you’ll find Craignano Nature Park.
Things to Do
- Explore the dense apple and cherry orchards.
- Nature walks and birdwatching in the serene forest surroundings.
- Visit the Craignano Nature Park and picnic in the wilderness.
Nearest Attractions
- Craignano Nature Park – ~2 km
- Shimla Mall Road – ~12 km
- Wildflower Hall Resort – ~2 km
4. Craignano Nature Park
A paid park where you can enjoy a treehouse and a play zone for kids. The park’s charm is enhanced by its artistic statues, serene ponds, blooming flowers, lush greenery, and wooden footbridges. It could be a good spot for taking selfies.
Things to Do
- Nature walks through dense deodar and oak forests.
- Birdwatching and wildlife spotting in a peaceful environment.
- Picnic and photography amidst Himalayan flora and fauna.
Nearest Attractions
- Mashobra – ~2 km
- Wildflower Hall – ~1 km
- Shimla Mall Road – ~13 km
5. Kufri
Located about 16 to 20 km from Shimla, Kufri is best visited between mid-December and February if you want to see snow. With luck, you might experience snowfall during your visit. Kufri is home to the Himalayan Nature Park, a zoo where you can see wild animals. The main attraction, however, is the Adventure Resorts, which offer many thrilling activities, including skiing. Don’t worry. Experts are available to guide and assist beginners in skiing, making it a wonderful experience for first-timers.
Things to Do
- Enjoy skiing and snow activities during the winter months.
- Horse riding and yak riding on the hilltop meadows.
- Visit Kufri Fun World and Himalayan Nature Park.
Nearest Attractions
- Chail – ~24 km
- Fagu – ~8 km
- Shimla Mall Road – ~16 km
6. Chadwick Falls
This beautiful waterfall is located in the middle of a forest, about 10 to 11 km from Shimla. A 10-minute walk from the main road takes you to the falls, where you can enjoy the sound of cascading water. Visitors have littered the area with plastic bottles and other garbage, but it remains a beautiful spot to visit. Since it is in a forest, it’s recommended that you go in a group and return before evening.
Things to Do
- Trek through the forest trail to reach the 67-metre waterfall.
- Photography of the scenic waterfall surrounded by dense pine trees.
- Nature walk and birdwatching along the trail.
Nearest Attractions
- Glen Forest – ~1 km
- Summer Hill – ~3 km
- Shimla Mall Road – ~5 km
7. Green Valley
Green Valley, located along the scenic route between Shimla and Kufri, is a vast expanse of rolling hills and dense pine forests, offering breathtaking views of nature’s untouched beauty. Visitors can take photos in traditional clothing and use telescopes to enjoy sweeping views of the valley, though the beauty is breathtaking even without them.
Things to Do
- Enjoy breathtaking views of lush green valleys and pine-covered slopes.
- Photography of the panoramic Himalayan landscape.
- Roadside stop for fresh mountain air and scenic surroundings on the Shimla–Kufri route.
Nearest Attractions
- Kufri – ~5 km
- Fagu – ~3 km
- Shimla Mall Road – ~11 km
Exploring time: 30 Min to 1 hour