Shimla is the capital of the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Britishers established it as a summer capital. Today, people seek shelter amidst the cool mountain, during the hot summers in the plains.
Seasons in Shimla:
March to June – Enjoy the Pleasant Weather
Temperature stays around 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Therefore, it is perfect for escaping the heat of the plains. The cool and comfortable weather is perfect for local sightseeing, evening strolls.
July to September – For a Quiet and Green Retreat
Shimla turns lush and green during the monsoon, with temperature ranging in between 13°C to 20°C (55°F to 68°F). However, rainfall may cause landslide. As it is a lesser crowded season, it is perfect for those seeking tranquility and solitude.
October to February – Perfect for Snow Lovers
During the winter months, Shimla enjoys a temperature of 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F). One can visit Shimla in December or January, to enjoy snowfall. The entire town transforms into a winter wonderland, offering activities like ice skating and snowball fights.
Routes to Shimla:
Scenic road trip:
- Starting from Delhi, one can take Sonipat road to Panipat crossing Ambala, travel to Solan, to finally reach Shimla. It covers a distance of 350 km, in about 7-8 hours. The road is well maintained, having dhabas/shops option for refreshments.
- You can also take the alternate route via NH9. This road travels through Rohtak to Karnal, Ambala, Solan valley to Shimla. It’s a bit longer route, covering 380 km in about 8-9 hours. It’s a good option for those wanting to avoid the more crowded NH44.
Take a Bus to Shimla:
There is options of taking Volvo/AC Bus from Delhi ISBT (Kashmere Gate). Take a overnight bus to reach Shimla early morning.
Enjoy Toy Train to Shimla:
One can board the Kalka Shatabdi or Himalayan Queen from New Delhi Railway Station to reach Kalka. From there, take the famous Kalka–Shimla Toy Train, which is a UNESCO World Heritage route offering a scenic journey through hills and tunnels.
Fly to Shimla:
Shimla has a small airport located at Jubarhatti, about 23 km from Shimla town. It’s a short flight of 1-1.5 hours from Delhi airport.
Exploring the hill station:
Stroll Through Shimla’s Heart: Explore the Charm of Mall Road and The Ridge
One can enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants on Mall Road, which offers a wide variety of North Indian, Himachali, and Continental cuisine. Shimla’s famous Mall Road is filled with shops, cafés, and historic buildings. One can take a relaxing walk to The Ridge, which is a wide open space offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding hills.
Enjoy Neo-gothic architecture at Christ Church:
Christ Church is one of the oldest churches in North India and also a symbol of Shimla’s colonial past. The church was constructed in 1857 during the British colonial period. It features Neo-Gothic architecture, with its tall, pointed spire and beautiful stained glass windows. The church is open to visitors from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. There is no entry fee to visit Christ Church.
Exploring Shimla’s Charm: Lakkar Bazaar & Jakhoo Temple
Lakkar Bazaar is a famous shopping street in Shimla known for its wooden handicrafts and souvenirs. Lakkar Bazaar is located near the Shimla Mall Road. Jakhoo Temple is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, situated at the highest point in Shimla. The temple is famous for its massive 108-foot-tall statue of Lord Hanuman.
Adventure rides at Kufri:
Kufri is located about 16 km from Shimla. Therefore, it takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour. One can take cab or local bus. It is famous for its adventure activities. One can do horse riding, yak rides till Mahasu Peak. Mahasu Peak is the highest point in Kufri and offers spectacular views of the Badrinath and Kedarnath mountain ranges. Kufri is a popular place for skiing during winter (December to February).
Wrapping Up the Journey:
A weekend getaway to Shimla offers the perfect blend of scenic beauty, colonial charm, and adventure. From the bustling Mall Road and the historic Christ Church to the serene heights of Jakhoo Temple and the adventurous trails of Kufri, Shimla has something for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking relaxation amidst nature or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Shimla’s picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture provide a refreshing escape to the hills, making it an unforgettable retreat from city life.
