Are you really excited to know what are the best things to do in Shimla but before that we get to know something about Shimla. Shimla is one of the most popular tourist destination in India, and people come from all over the world to experience its beauty. Himachal Pradesh’s capital is Shimla. If you haven’t been to Shimla yet and are considering traveling in the next few days, we’ll tell you what you can do and see in Shimla today.
Shimla is a popular honeymoon destination in India. The majority of Indians visit Shimla to celebrate their honeymoon. Along with natural beauty, Shimla is home to numerous deities. Friends, if you have an opinion, you should visit Shimla at least once in your life. When you arrive, you will understand why people are so enamored with Shimla valleys. Why do so many people desire to visit Shimla? Shimla is known for its frigid weather, and visitors flock to enjoy the snow. There are many things to do in Shimla and today we talk about top 10 things to do in Shimla.
Things to do in Shimla
1. Shimla Toy Train
The first and nicest thing to do in Shimla is ride the toy train. Embark on a remarkable railway journey with the Kalka Shimla Toy Train, which has become an integral part of every Shimla tour. This enchanting train ride presents breathtaking views of verdant valleys, rugged mountains, cascading waterfalls, and pine-covered forests, allowing passengers to witness the natural beauty of Himachal Pradesh.
Along with exploring Shimla’s rich colonial history, the train journey offers opportunities to indulge in fine dining, visit bars, and explore shops along the Mall Road and the Ridge. Suitable for travelers of all ages, this ride is a must-try experience, as the train traverses more than 100 tunnels and 800 bridges, covering a distance of approximately 60 miles. Hence the toy train comes among the best things to do in Shimla. Built in 1903 and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kalka Shimla Toy Train presents awe-inspiring landscapes that transport you back in time.
2. Shimla Ridge
Located in the heart of Shimla, just 2 km from Shimla Railway Station and 1.2 km from Shimla Old Bus Stand, The Ridge is a bustling open space that offers a multitude of things to do in Shimla. It serves as a popular tourist destination, offering a panoramic view of the sunset and easy access to major attractions like Lakkar Bazaar, Mall, Scandal Point, and Jakhu Hill.
The area is vehicle-free, attracting a constant stream of visitors who come to admire the iconic Christ Church and Tudor library. The Ridge is also known for hosting government functions, fairs, and the vibrant Summer Festival. With its picturesque surroundings and views of the Himalayas, it is a must-visit spot for nature enthusiasts. When exploring Shimla, don’t miss out on experiencing the wonderful things to do in Shimla at the Ridge.
3. Camping in Shimla
Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, is the largest city in the state and is home to around 200,000 people. It sits at a high altitude of 2,206 meters on top of seven hills: Inverarm, Jakhoo, Summer, Prospect, Elysium, Bantony, and Observatory. These hills are perfect for camping.
The highest point in the city is Jakhoo Hill, which reaches 2,454 meters above sea level. Shimla has a cold winter and moderately warm summers, with temperatures ranging from -4 to 31 degrees Celsius. There are still a ton of things to do in Shimla, so don’t let the weather stop you. Despite the weather, you can still enjoy activities like camping, trekking, and skiing in Shimla. The best time for camping there is from April to October when the weather is pleasant.
4. Lakkar Bazaar
Lakkar Bazaar in Shimla is a famous shopping place known for its beautiful wooden decorations. It’s located near The Ridge and offers a great shopping experience. You can find souvenirs, gifts, and decorative items there. The renowned Lakkar Bazaar is one of the top things to do in Shimla.
They have a lot of wooden items like key chains, candle stands, spoons, and pots. You can also buy woolens, shawls, and handicrafts from small shops in the market. Lakkar Bazaar is a must-visit in Shimla and it’s a hub for wooden crafts. You can also buy wooden walking sticks there. The market is open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. It’s close to Mall Road, and you can easily walk there in a few minutes.
5. Mall Road
The Mall Road in Shimla is a lively popular tourist place in India. It’s the main street in Shimla and has many shops, cafes, restaurants, and places to buy souvenirs. The Mall Road in Shimla is a vibrant and bustling hub of activity, catering to both locals and tourists looking for things to do in Shimla. You can also visit nearby attractions like the Kali Bari Temple, Town Hall, and Gaiety Theater.
People enjoy strolling along the Mall Road, trying street food and experiencing the hustle and bustle. There are lots of vendors and stalls where you can find cheap jewelry, trendy clothes, shoes, and more. Additionally, the Mall Road offers beautiful views of the valley and snow-covered mountains. In winter, it gets crowded with honeymooners and families, and you can enjoy sightseeing, dining, and shopping there. The shops and restaurants stay open until late at night.
6. Trekking in Shimla
Trekking is a thrilling adventure sport where people walk from one mountain to another. Each mountain is different, with unique landscapes and heights above sea level. This makes every trekking experience special. In Shimla, the tourist department provides all the necessary guidance, equipment, and camps for trekkers. If you want to try trekking, Shimla is the perfect place to enjoy this exciting sport.
Shimla and its surrounding areas have many mountains and passes that connect one valley to another. These routes offer great options for trekkers of all levels. You can choose to cross one pass and return or continue further to cross more passes and explore new valleys. There are over 20 passes in the Dhauladhar range and over 12 passes in the Pirpanjal range. If you dream of crossing the mighty Great Himalayan range to visit Zanskar Valley, you’ll need to conquer 8 to 10 mountain passes. Shimla truly offers a remarkable experience for trekking enthusiasts, with its stunning scenery and varied routes.
7. Ice-skating in Shimla
When you visit here, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Shimla, and one activity that shouldn’t be missed is ice-skating. Visiting Shimla can be even more fun if you try ice-skating. Shimla has the biggest ice skating rink in India, and it’s the only natural one in the country. Many tourists and locals love to go ice-skating there.
The ice skating season starts in December and goes until February. The weather is cold and the skies are clear, so you can enjoy skating without any interruptions. There are sessions in the morning and evening every day. You can become a member of the rink for a short or long time, and they provide all the necessary equipment like skates and protective gear. Ice skating in Shimla will add a touch of adventure and excitement to your trip.
8. Scandal Point
Scandal Point in Shimla is a popular tourist spot where The Mall and The Ridge meet. It got its name from a romantic story that happened in 1892. The Maharaja of Patiala fell in love with the ruler’s daughter and they ran away from this point. Because of this, the Maharaja was banned from entering Shimla. He then created a new summer capital called Chail nearby.
Nowadays, Scandal Point has a statue of a freedom fighter named Lala Lajpat Rai, and there are many shops and restaurants around. Visitors can enjoy horse-riding and admire the beautiful Himalayan views. It’s always crowded with tourists because Shimla is a great place to visit all year round. Whether you’re exploring historical tales, indulging in retail therapy, or savoring delectable cuisine, this spot offers an enticing range of things to do in Shimla.
9. Tara Devi Temple
The Tara Devi Temple in Shimla is a beautiful and peaceful place surrounded by valleys and hills. It’s a popular sightseeing spot where locals and tourists go, especially during festivals. The temple has a rich heritage and is spiritually significant. It provides a serene and tranquil setting where visitors can forget their worries and feel closer to the divine. It’s like a paradise for those seeking a peaceful and meaningful experience, and it holds a special place in the hearts of people who believe in Goddess Tara.
10. Chadwick Waterfall
Chadwick Falls, a mesmerizing waterfall near Shimla, is a must-visit when exploring the top attractions and things to do in Shimla. Chadwick Falls is a beautiful waterfall near Shimla, a popular tourist spot. It’s located about 5 km from Shimla Railway Station and is one of the top attractions in the area.
The waterfall is at a high altitude of 1586 m and drops down 86 m into a deep gorge. You can reach the falls by taking a road through Summer Hill and then walking for about 10 minutes through thick vegetation. The best time to visit is after the monsoon season, from July to October, when the water level is high and the falls look stunning. The water is cold and refreshing, coming from the Himalayas. The falls are surrounded by green forests and offer a magnificent view of the snow-capped mountains. It’s one of the tallest waterfalls in India and is definitely worth a visit, especially during the monsoon season.
In summary
Shimla is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful landscapes and rich heritage. It offers a variety of exciting activities for visitors to enjoy. There are many things to do in Shimla from riding the toy train and exploring the vibrant Mall Road to shopping at Lakkar Bazaar and experiencing the tranquility of the Tara Devi Temple, there is something for everyone in Shimla.
Whether you’re interested in adventure sports like camping and trekking, or prefer more leisurely pursuits like ice-skating and admiring waterfalls, Shimla has it all. It’s a place that captivates the hearts of both locals and tourists, with its stunning natural beauty and spiritual significance. Therefore, if you’re making travel plans and looking for things to do in Shimla, don’t forget to check out the city’s best experiences and attractions.
Amazing Akshay, I am also going to Shimla with my family, thanks a lot for sharing the activities in Shimla