The
British empire may have ceased to exit, but its echoes
linger on in Shimla (2205). As the 'summer
capital' of the British in India, this was the
country's focus for the better part of every year and
now, it is state capital of Himachal Pradesh.
Today, it has well developed facilities, easy
accessibility and numerous attractions make it one of
India's most popular hill resort. Placed in the lower
ranges of the Himalaya mountains, it is surrounded by
pine deodar, oak and rhododendrom forests.
Towards the north lie the snow-covered high-ranges,
while the valleys breathe whispering streams and
swaying fields. Within the town are host of
splendid colonial edifices, quaint cottages and
charming walks. Shimla holds a variety of
shopping, sport and entertainment.
ACCESS:
The airport is at Jubbal Hatti, 23 km away.
Shimla is connected to Kalka by an enenchanting narrow
gauge railway line- where even a quaint rail - car
plys. By road, Chandigarh is 117 km, Manali is
280 km, Chail is 45 km and Delhi is at a distance of
370 km. From Delhi, Manali and Chandigarh,
luxury coaches and taxis ply to Shimla. During season
HPTDC also operates regular deluxe buses from Delhi
and Manali.
CLIMATE:
In winter, the temperature can drop below freezing
point when heavy woolens are required. Summer
temperature are mild and light woollens/cottons are
recommended.
PLACES
OF INTEREST
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
BAZAR : Popular for its wood crafts and Souvenirs,
this is just off the Ridge.
JAKHOO
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 (3km): 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 English 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.
THE
GLEN (4 km ): At 1830m, It is a thickly
wooded ravine through which a stream flows. It
is a popular picnic spot.
ANNANDALE
(4.5 km) : Surrounded by a thick deodar
forest, this large glade has an ancient temple on an
edge.
PROSPECT
HILL AND KAMNA DEVI ( 6 km) : At 2125m and
crowned by a temple dedicated to Kamna Devi, the
Hill offers spectacular wide views of the city and its
environs.
SANKAT
MOCHAN (7 km) : This is a temple
dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
TARA
DEVI (11 km) : 2044m, A thickly wooded hill
whose peak has a temple dedicated to Tara Devi.
MASHOBRA
(12 km): 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
(16 km) : At 2501m, this is famous for its
wide views and ski slopes. An enjoyable walk leads up
to the Mahasu Peak. At Kufri, Himachal Tourism
runs the Cafe Lalit.
FAGU
(22 km) : At 2510m, Fagu has some enchanting
views. Himachal Tourism runs the Hotel Peach
Blossom (presently under renovation).
CHAIL
(45 km): This was the former 'summer
capital' of the Patiala State. The palace in now
run as a luxury hotel by Himachal Tourism.
TATTAPANI
(51 km) : At 656m, there are hot sulphur springs
here. Himachal Tourism has a restaurant and
Tourist Bungalow at Tattapani.
SIGHT-SEEING
TOURS : India Nepal tribal a variety of
sight-seeing tours from Shimla
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