What are the top tourist attractions to visit in Shimla, India?

Shimla or Simla is the scenic capital and the largest city of the Indian state Himachal Pradesh. Located at the foothills of the Himalayan mountains in the northern part of India, the city of Shimla is surrounded by breathtaking nature with stunning views all around and is dubbed as the Queen of Hills. It’s the favorite destination for vacationers for the summer during British rule and still displays British influences throughout the city.

Visitors are always impressed by the array of activities to do in Shimla. From adrenaline-pumping sports, nature activities to cultural activities, Shimla has almost everything to offer. The summer and winter months provide the best times to visit this beautiful city with the different types of activities it can offer. Read more for the top 10 things to do in Shimla.

Hop on the Toy Train

The ultimate must-not-miss activity is hopping on the Kalka Shimla Toy Train when you’re in Shimla. The Kalka Shimla Toy Train goes through a historic railway that’ll take passengers from Shimla to Kalka and vice versa and takes 4 hours and 40 minutes to complete.

Riders will be treated with a scenic experience going through the railway surrounded by pine trees on the mountain with amazing forested views below. The train will also go through picturesque villages and haunted tunnels.

Explore The Ridge

Located at the center of Shimla, The Ridge is a huge open road. It is primarily referred to as the city’s cultural hub where major cultural activities take place. It’s one of the most visited places in Shimla, with its own marketplace and connections to various other attractions along its pathway.

This includes the famous Scandal Point at The Ridge’s westernmost side, where stunning sunsets and sunrises can be viewed over the mountaintops. People should also visit the Tudor Library and shop at Mall Road.

Shop at Lakkar Bazaar

You can reach Lakkar Bazzar through The Ridge by going to its easternmost end. Lakkar Bazaar stands out from other shopping centers in Shimla for its impressive collection of masterfully made wooden handicrafts and artifacts for sale. It’s highly recommended to visit the bazaar at night where the energy in the marketplace just doubles. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs and woven winterwear at low prices like beautiful Kallu shawls. Lakkar Bazaar also serves as the starting point to Jakhoo Peak.

Trekk to Jakhoo Temple

Since we’ve already mentioned it, climbing up the mountainside to Jakhoo Peak is an excellent activity for nature lovers and hikers. The temple is at the highest point in Shimla, at the height of around 2,455 above sea level. The trek will be enjoyable, especially during colder seasons, but it can be pretty tiring during the summer. The climb up can take about 1.5 to 2 hours long to complete. Travelers can also check out the Rothney Castle while climbing.

Visit Chadwick Waterfall

Speaking of trekking, another popular one is the Chadwick falls, located around 7 km from Shimla. The trek to the falls is often described as serene and peaceful, where hikers will be surrounded by the lush greenery of the jungle. Along the way, travelers can spot different beautiful species of birds. The waterfalls are peaceful to watch once visitors reach them, especially during sunrise. People get to experience solitude in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Visit Summer Hill

If you want to experience a different place away from the crowds of people in the city, the picturesque suburb of Summer Hill is the best place to visit. It’s just 5 km away from the Shimla RIdge, so you can hop on to the Toy Train or reach the suburb via the public bus. Some of the best things to do in Summer Hill are photographing the beautiful scenery, going trekking, and visiting Manorville Mansion, where Mahatma Gandhi stayed whenever he visited Shimla.

Visit the Indian Institute of Advanced Study

There are many historic places to visit in Shimla, but none are as significant as the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, established in 1964. The building where the institution is housed is called the Viceregal Lodge and was built by the British as a home for Lord Dufferin, Viceroy of India, from 1884 to 1888. Over the years, the Viceral Lodge has served as an important setting for the state’s history. Visitors can scroll through its grounds, take photographs, or view the Institute’s historical collection.

Go Rafting at Tattapani

For thrill-seekers out there, Tattapani, located 50 km away from Shimla, offers great rafting activities on the River Sutlej, one of the longest rivers of India. It’s a great weekend destination if when you’re in Shimla. It’s best to have this adrenaline-pumping experience from May to June. Tattapani also offers plenty of other activities if you’re not up for rafting. Trekking through its lush greenery is one, and another is taking a relaxing dip at its natural hot springs.

Go Ice Skating

Shimla can boast of having the most extensive natural open-air ice skating rink in Asia, so don’t miss out and go ice skating at the Ice Skating Club in the city. It’s one of the most popular activities in Shimla during winters at its peak season. The ice rink doesn’t melt due to the shade brought on by the thickly forested hillside, and the rink has been hosting ice skating sports and recreational activities since 1920.

Go Birdwatching

The beautiful densely forested hillsides of Shimla are the perfect place to immerse in nature and go animal and birdwatching. Go to Shimla Water Catchment Sanctuary to 8 km from Shimla to catch a glimpse of various wildlife, including 100 different species of birds. It’s the perfect place to discover Shimla’s wide variety of flora and fauna.

Nature and wildlife enthusiasts can also visit Kufri National Park, located 20 km away from Shimla. The park is nestled in the Himalayan Range and sprawled over 90 acres. Visitors lucky enough to spot them can find over 180 different birds and various wildlife species in Kufri National Park.

Shimla Travel and Tour Packages

Searching for the best Shimla hotels, resorts, and affordable flights in the nearby Cities? Check out our list of cheap hotels and resorts via Agoda, or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.

Want more updates about new tourist attractions in Shimla, India? Follow #TeamOutofTown, on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest for more travel ideas.

Also read:

• Exploring Singaraja In Bali, Indonesia
• 12 Best Things To Do In Terengganu, Malaysia
• Travel Guide To Jaipur, India | The Pink City