Shimla was the most important British hill station before independece of India, and it was the summer capital of British India. The British in 1819 A.D first discovered Shimla, The name Shimla is derived from the Himalayan Goddess Shamla a synonym of lord Kali.

Situated in the North-west Himalayas, Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh. Shimla was once famous as the Summer Capital of "The Raj"[ British Period]. Though evocative of a bygone ere, Shimla is today a thriving Capital of a State Himachal Pradesh, famous for its snowcapped peaks, apples, and pine forest, flowers and gentle & soft spoken smiling people. Goddess Shyamala, an incarnation of Goddess Kali, the deity of power and wrath lends her name to the hill station of Shimla. The natural beauty of the 2159 m high Shimla makes it one of the most popular hill resorts in the country. The terrific tranquility of Shimla attracts thousands of tourists year after year.

Connectivity: to Shimla

Shimla By Air : Shimla has an airport, 22 kilometer away, from the main city with regular flights to Delhi. Chandigarh airport is 120 km away on the plains, has flights at more regular intervals.

Shimla By Train : Broad-gauge trains run till Kalka, from all the parts of the country. From Kalka onwards, Toy Train on narrow gauge takes you to Shimla which offers some fantastic views. You can also take a bus or cab from Kalka to Shimla.

Shimla By Road : Shimla is connected by road to Chandigarh, Delhi, Dehradun, Kalka, Pinjore and to many other places as well.

Main attractions: at Shimla

The Ridge Shimla: This large open space provides excellent views of the mountain ranges.

Lakkar Bazaar Shimla: Market for wood crafts Popular for its wood crafts and Souvenirs, near the Ridge.

Jakoo Hill Shimla: (2.5 km), At 2455m, this is the Shimla's highest peak and a vantage point for Shimla's famous views. Jakhu hills is crowned with a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The hill is full of paths and narrow roads which are enjoyable walks, one can go by car also, lots of monkeys are there.

St. Michael's Cathedral Shimla : Dressed-stone church with fine stained glass work has a cruciform design. Church is located just off the Mall, below the District Courts.

State Museum Shimla: This Museum include archaeological artifacts, carvings, paintings and sculptures. Museum is closed on Monday and holidays.


Sankat Mochan Shimla: Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman.

Tara Devi near Shimla: Height 2044m, Thickly wooded hill ,Temple dedicated to Tara Devi.

Mashobra near Shimla: Height 2149m, Surrounded by a thick forests. Track leads down to Sipur which is an exquisite glade shaded by ancient deodar trees. Old temples on a side and a fair is held every April.

Kufri near Shimla: Height 2501m, Famous for its wide views and ski slopes. An enjoyable walk leads up to the Mahasu Peak. Horse riding,Mini Zoo etc.

Shopping:at Shimla
The beautiful hill station offers a lot for those of you who would like to indulge in a shopping spree. You must check out the Mall for the best in garment and textile industry, here the State emporium offers the himachali (local) handicrafts and handloom items. For the dry fruits and natural herbs carrying medicinal properties you can check out any of the local shops like the Lakkar Bazaar is the one stop market for the wooden items of all shapes and sizes.

Adventure sports:at Shimla
Besides being the ultimate hill station Shimla remains an ideal spot for adventure sports. The more adventurous of you may ski at the Narkanda and Kufri from January to mid-March. The nine-hole golf course at Naldehra is a major draw for the tourists. ,