Shimla
Shimla (also spelt as 'Simla') derives its name from goddess 'Shayamla Devi', which is another manifestation of Goddess Kali. The capital of Himachal Pradesh came into light when the British discovered it in 1819.Until then, it was a part of the Nepalese kingdom. In 1864 Shimla was declared as the summer capital of India. It is situated at a height of 2,196 metres.



One of the best ways to discover the beauty and charm of Shimla is through Kalka mail. The famous Kalka - Shimla toy train runs between these cities of Himachal Pradesh is one of the prime attractions in Shimla, that gives splendid views of the snow-clad ranges of the Himalayas, covered with thickly populated forests of pine and oak. From the adventure point of view, Shimla offers diverse number of adventurous sports and activities. From the options galore, tourists can go for trekking, skiing, fishing and golfing or a perfect sun walk down the lane of lush green forests. Apart from the excursion and natural beauty, Shimla is also famous for its old churches and the famous market known as "The Mall", one of the popular venue amongst the locals as well as tourists.

Prime Attractions of Shimla

The Mall :
The Mall is the main road in Shimla. The road was set up by the Britishers, and is the main market and attraction of Shimla. Most of the colonial structures stand on this road. For the visitors, a walk down The Mall is a must do activity. At the top end of the Mall is Scandal Point, a large open square with a view of the town. Overlooking the point is the elegant Christ Church with its fine stained glass windows. The labyrinth of Shimla's bazaars spill over the edge of the Mall.

Lakkad Bazaar :
Lakkad Bazaar offers anything and everything you can imagine carved out of wood. From key chains, walking sticks, massagers, toys and jewellery boxes to sailor's wheels, planters and stationary holders - Lakkad Bazaar gives you plenty to pick from and take back home for friends and relatives, without flattening your wallets.

Christ Church :
Christ Church is the second oldest church in North India. Christ Church is a huge building, which looks magnificent from outside as well as inside. The church has stained window glasses, and represents the original style of European church building techniques.



Jakhu Temple :
No visit to the state capital Shimla is complete without visiting Jakhu Hill. This hill looms over Shimla town and is the geographical nucleus. The Hanuman temple at the top of Jakhu hill is the highest point in town touching 8000 ft.. The temple is full of playful monkeys, which wait for pilgrims to feed them.

Excursions from Shimla

Chail :
Chail, at 43 kms from Shimla is a small beautiful town. Chail used to be the summer capital of the Maharaja of Patiala. The small town has some temples, an old palace and buildings. Chail is also known for the highest cricket pitch and a Polo ground. Chail is also a famous camping site.

Kurfi :
Kufri is a half-hour's drive out of Shimla (12 km). Loaded with hundreds of picnic and look-out points, it even has a deer park. Something else you'll find in abundance here are the quaint souvenir shops. Adventure-seeking travelers throng Kufri in winters to enjoy skiing and tobogganing along its snow-covered slopes.

Kasauli :
Kasauli is a quaint little town, 77 kms from Shimla. Kasauli is well known for its colonial ambience. It is surrounded by mixed forests of pine, oak and chestnuts. An old fort at Sabathu is another attraction in Kasauli, apart from the colonial structures.

Tattapani:
Tattapani, 51 km from Shimla, is a spot well known for hot sulfurous springs.