Situated at a height of 2200m, Shimla is the capital and the largest city of Himachal Pradesh in India. Set amidst beautiful hills and mystical woods, Shimla has been a very popular hill-station among Indian families and honeymooners since the last 50 years.

Ridge, Shimla Overview

Located in the heart of the ‘British Summer Capital’ – Shimla, The Ridge is a wide open street located on the side of Shimla Mall Road. The Ridge has everything, from shops selling some exclusive artefacts to the spectacular view of the snow-capped mountain ranges set against an orangish hued sky. It is famous for a lot of things, but best known for shopping. This place is a delight for all kinds of tourists, and the old British establishments beckon visitors from all over to this centre of the beautiful hill station. The Ridge is the most recognised face of Shimla. It is often the most photographed part of the hill station covered with pine, firs, Himalayan Oak and Rhododendron trees.

The Ridge is not just a market place but also the social hub of the city. This wide open space is thronged by locals and nature enthusiasts as well as travellers bored of the sightseeing. The road is lined with cafes, bars, boutiques, shops and restaurants attracting the huge crowd that visit the famous Mall road. It runs from east to west on the side of the Mall Road and connects it to the famous Scandal point on the west end. On the east end, it is connected to the Lakkar bazaar, which is the most famous wooden crafts market in Shimla. Shimla’s rich past is evident from the Gothic buildings standing in this part of the town. 

Kufri

While in Shimla, visit its colder, higher and less crowded cousin, Kufri just 13 km away from the main town. The views and sceneries here only get better, and the landscapes more flattering, a bit untouched with the tourist rush.

However, Kufri too is becoming increasingly popular with the visitors, especially due to the zoo here. One must visit Kufri’s zoological park which is famous for having rare species of Antelopes, Felines, Bears and birds including Himalayan Monal, which is the state bird of Himachal Pradesh.
Mashru peak is the highest point here and one can reach by trekking upto that point. Otherwise, Kufri itself is very cold and is used as a ski ground during winters. There are accommodation options also available here. Wildflower Hall is also located nearby.

 Chail

Erstwhile summer capital of the princely state of Patiala, Chail is an alluring hill station that lies about 63 km from Shimla. Nestled in the Himachal Pradesh’s Shivalik region, Chail basically is spread across the three hillocks – Sadh Tiba, Pandewa and Rajgarh. It is spread over an area covering 72 acres of land and overlooks the canyon of River Satluj. Chail enjoys a pleasant weather all round the year and is thus visited not just by the tourists but also the locals. Further, it also brings forth scenic and elegant views of the enclosing country side. Overlooking both Shimla and Kasauli, Chail used to be a sleepy little mountain village that underwent a transformation in the year 1893.    

Chail along with Shimla and Kufri, is also known as the Golden Triangle of Himachal Pradesh. It is a beautiful hill station that is free from the massive crowds that throng Shimla and consequently allows the travelers to relish the charm and the beauty of the place in its relative peace.

The lush green outfields, dense cover of deodar and pine trees and the stunning of the mountains along with the breathtaking natural beauty, makes Chile one of the most significant tourist attraction of Himachal Pradesh.

Christ Church

Christ Church is one of the popular attractions among tourists and is considered in the top ten lists of places to visit in Shimla. The Christ Church is an excellent architectural monument built in the British era so that the then followers of Christianity could serve almighty Jesus. 

This monument is perfect for the people who want to get a taste of religious Christianity from the colonial time. The church was built in such a way that it would portray faith, hope, humanity, patience, fortitude, and charity to make people aware of the rich Christian culture. Located amidst majestic locations and spectacular landscapes, this place is worth giving a try.

Mall Road, Shimla

The Mall Road in Shimla, located in the heart of the town, is the main street that is lined up with a myriad of restaurants, clubs, banks, shops, post offices and tourist offices. At the same time, the place boasts of the other exciting attractions that it houses, such as the Scandal Point and Kali Bari Temple. One of the busiest and more commercial areas of Shimla till date, this stretch is a mini-world in itself. The Shimla Mall Road is the one stretch, that truly celebrates the spirit of the hilltown, its tourist rush and valleys and hills covered with houses and hotels. The charm and beauty of the Mall Road can be enjoyed by groups of friends, families and honeymooners alike.

The stores that are located on the Mall Road are famous for their woollen clothes and exclusively handcrafted works, apart from the usual books and jewellery. The wooden furniture shops are particularly well-known; so do not forget to buy some exquisite wooden articles, which look like antiques, when you shop from here. Vehicles, except emergency ones, are not allowed on this street, which not only makes the Mall Road in Shimla an ideal place to stroll around in the evenings, without being concerned about the traffic. Other than shopping, Shimla Mall Road is also famous for its variety of cafes and the delicious delicacies that they serve. In fact, people here are spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing a place to have a meal at. The numerous leisure activities that Mall Road offers ensure that you do not get bored.

Tattapani

A popular tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh, Tattapani is a quaint village located 60 kms away from Shimla. Situated on the banks of river Sutlej, it treasures several attractions lying amid nature in its best form. It is famous for its Hot sulphur spring that is believed to have curative properties for health ailments like stress, joint pain, fatigue and other skin diseases.

On asking the locals, you can always get to hear about the must-visit spots of the destination being – Shiva’s Cave. Located 3.5 km from the town centre, Shiva’s Caves are famous for its tales of miracles and fulfilment of vows and wishes of its devotees. You can also bask yourself in the adventurous sports of White River rafting, Zorbing, Skiing, Paragliding, Trekking and Camping in Tattapani.

Jakhoo Hill

The highest point in Shimla, Jakhoo Hill is regarded as one of the most famous tourist places in Shimla. Covered with beautiful alpine trees, the hill’s most popular spots are the Jakhoo Temple and the recently established Hanuman statues. Jakhoo Hill is a good spot for a peaceful break from the bustling touristy environment of Shimla’s downtown.

Follow the 2.5-kilometre footpath to reach the summit of the peak but be aware of the monkeys as they can be menacing sometimes. Once at the summit, enjoy the cool weather and cherish the awe-inspiring views of the Shivalik mountain range.

Green Valley

Green Valley is truly one of the most famous Shimla tourist places and photography points in Shimla. Seen as the popular shooting spot in different Bollywood movies, the Green Valley brings forth endless beauty. Noted for its elite beauty, Green Valley has been mentioned in a number of articles and travel books.