Himachal’s Queen of Hills – Shimla, a Snow Paradise you cant miss this winter.
“Queen of Hills”, a picturesque view of the snow-capped town of Shimla, is a favourite destination for many travellers. It’s breathtaking with its view. From colonial charms to modern developments, it’s a city with endless beauty and ancient structures.
It’s the most charming view to see when you stand at a point and observe it built on several hills. It is at the foothills of the ranges. In the early years, it was the summer capital of British India (declared as the summer capital in 1864). Some amazing pieces of architecture and structures you will come across. It’s also home to historic buildings like the Viceregal Lodge, which is now known as the Rashtrapati Niwas.
With lush green pastures and snow-capped peaks, it is a beauty on both sunny and rainy days. When you walk through the web of interconnected streets, you will see some stunning views and areas you wouldn’t have explored before. Shimla comes from the Goddess Shyamala Devi, who was a form of goddess Kali. Shimla can give you a good, pleasant and at times supercold weather. Post Independence, Shimla was the capital of Punjab before Himachal Pradesh.
Hidden gems you might not know are near Shimla! Explore the unknown!
When we pack our bags to head North, we always get to explore the place with the most commonly visited places, but let me tell you, there are some hidden gems and upbeat places you can visit in and around Shimla. You might not know that a historic 18-hole golf course lies in Naldhera, a beautiful place at an altitude of 2200 meters. You need not go all the way to Kashmir, but visit Koti-Kanasar, a stunning natural lush, green meadow. Popularly known as “Mini Kashmir”. You can visit the Skiing resort in Narkhanda and enjoy the adventurous snow activities. Hattu Peak is also just a few kilometres up from Shimla. You can sit on a wooden bench, enjoying the view with a cup of hot chocolate and a bowl full of Maggie. Fagu is another misty hill space just 22 km from Shimla. You can enjoy the nature walks, trekking trails, and if you’re an avid photographer, then capture some stunning views of the Himalayas.
While you’re on the Shimla-Kalka National Highway, you can’t miss Kiarighat, a popular place where one stops by to chill. Shoja is an untouched village nearby, where you can explore the serene natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. It is also close to Jalori Pass. Karsog is less commercial and has the Mamleshwar Mahadev temple for you to take darshan from. In the Shivalik hills nearby, you can visit Sirmaur, which has rural and mountainous agricultural land pastures. Sarahan is a Gateway to Kinnaur and has the famous Bhimkali Temple. The pristine river of the Tirthan Valley has lush forest and mountain spaces for trekking and trout fishing.
A serene and beautiful village in the Shimla district is an ideal getaway from the city life. Apple orchids and a tranquil atmosphere, one can explore stargazing and silence.Whereas Theog is another place to explore, just 32 km from Shimla on NH22. The traditional connection one can explore with Dev Bhoomi is Kotkhai falls in Shimla district, with agriculture as a focus, especially apple farming.
The Apple basket of India is full of cherries, apples, and this place is Kotgarh, which is just 82 km from Shimla. And last but not least, Matiana is a picturesque town in the Shimla district, which is again a calm and serene place
Get Touristy in Shimla!
So many unheard places, isn’t it! But yes, if you wish to be a typical tourist, then visit Mall Road for shopping, at the highest point of
Shimla is the Jakhu temple, a wide open space in the heart of the city, the Ridge and the Kalka-Shimla Railway( A UNESCO World Heritage site). The Viceregal lodge, Christ Church(the oldest church with neo-Gothic architecture) and the Annandale ground are some other cool explorations. Kufri is another beautiful place where you can do some adventure activities. The Annandale ground is a large space where many events and sports are conducted. Mashobra is a scenic area with apple orchards. Don’t forget to wear your shoes, as you will need to walk around the town.
While in Shimla, you will come across some local cuisines like Siddhu, Chha Gosht, Luchi-channa and Babru. Trout Fish and Chana Madra are other famous local experiences. There are some great bakeries and cafes one can chill at.
While you drool, you can also shop at the local artisan shops and buy some woollen garments, Himalayan caps, wood handicrafts, Tibetan crafts, jewellery and regional special Chamba Rumal.
How to reach Shimla
.
Shimla itself has an Airport (SlV), so fly here, or Delhi is nearby too. If you want a unique experience, then hop onto the toy train from Kalka. Wow, like a 7-hour journey in the hills. If you want a Zindagi na Mile dobara car ride, then drive up hill from Delhi, Chandigarh or Jaipur. Oh, yes and many like a bus ride, so that options are available too from these nearby cities.
