Situated
in the North-west Himalayas, Shimla is the capital of
Himachal Pradesh. It was once famous as the Summer Capital
of "The Raj". Though evocative of a bygone
ere, it is today a thriving Capital of a State, famous
for its snowcapped peaks, apples, and pine forest, flowers
and gentle smiling people. Goddess Shyamala, an incarnation
of Goddess Kali, the deity of power and wrath lends
her name to the hill resort of Shimla. The natural beauty
of the 2159 m high Shimla makes it one of the most popular
hill resorts in the country. The terrific tranquility
attracts thousands of tourists year after year.
Connectivity
Air : Shimla has an airport, 22 km
away, from the main city with regular flights to Delhi.
Chandigarh airport, 120 km away on the plains, has flights
at more regular intervals. The flights to Shimla may
be called off, during the winter months of December,
January and February, so you will need to check them
up in advance.
Train : Broad-gauge trains run till
Kalka, from all the parts of the country. From Kalka
onwards, a rail car on narrow gauge takes you to Shimla
which offers some fantastic sights. You can also take
a bus from Kalka to Shimla.
Bus : Shimla is connected by road
to Chandigarh, Delhi, Dehradun, Kalka, and to many other
places as well.
Main attractions
The Ridge : This large open space
in the heart of town presents excellent views of the
mountain ranges. Shimla's landmarks - the neo- gothic
structure of Christ Church and the neo - Tudor library
building - are worth seeing.
Lakkar Bazaar : Popular for its wood
crafts and Souvenirs, this is just off the Ridge.
Jakoo Hill : (2.5 km), At 2455m, this
is the town's highest peak and a vantage point for Shimla's
famous views. The summit is crowned with a temple dedicated
to Lord Hanuman. The hill is full of paths and narrow
roads which are enjoyable walks.
St.
Michael's Cathedral : This dressed-stone church
with fine stained glass has a cruciform design. It is
located just off the Mall, below the District Courts.
State Museum : This houses a representative
collection of Himachal Pradesh's rich heritage. Exhibits
include archaeological artifacts, carvings,paintings
and sculptures. Closed on Monday and holidays.
Indian Institute of Advanced Study : (4
km) : At 1983m, this magnificent renaissance structure
was the former Viceregal Lodge. Its lawns and woodland
are added attractions. Entry by ticket ( nominal charge
). A portion of the interior is also open to the public,
except on Sundays and holidays.
Sankat Mochan : This is a temple dedicated
to Lord Hanuman.
Tara Devi : 2044m, A thickly wooded
hill whose peak has a temple dedicated to Tara Devi.
Mashobra : At 2149m, this beautiful
suburb is surrounded by a thick forests. From here,
a track leads down to Sipur which is an exquisite glade
shaded by ancient deodar trees. There are old temples
on a side and a fair is held every April.
Kufri : At 2501m, this is famous
for its wide views and ski slopes. An enjoyable walk
leads up to the Mahasu Peak.
Shopping spree
The beautiful hill resort offers a lot for those of
you who would like to indulge in a shopping spree. You
must check out the Mall for the best in garment and
textile industry, here the State emporium offers the
himachali (local) handicrafts and handloom items. The
hats that are available in a wide range of charges and
colors make the perfect souvenirs. For the dry fruits
and natural herbs carrying medicinal properties you
may check out any of the local shops whereas the Lakkar
Bazaar is the one stop market for the wooden items of
all shapes and sizes.
Adventure sports
Besides being the ultimate summer retreat Shimla remains
an ideal spot for adventure sports. You may take your
pick from the various treks to the Kullu valley or indulge
in trout fishing at the Pabbar River. The more adventurous
of you may ski at the Narkanda and Kufri from January
to mid-March. Of course the nine-hole golf course at
Naldehra is a major draw for the tourists.
