Explore the Popular Tourist Destinations of Shimla in its Majestic Landscape

Shimla is a popular vacation spot in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It justifies the famous titles The Queen of Hills and The Summer Capital of British India. There are many popular destinations in Shimla available in both the seasons- summers and winters. Every year, tourists flock to the city to enjoy the picturesque view, escape from the hot weather, or experience the snowfall. The steep mountains and dense forests create a grand landscape. Amid the landscape, stand temples, churches, and old buildings add historical charm to this city. The tranquil vista is entangled with thrilling adventure sports, giving the best of both worlds to its visitors. The serenity in the air lifts the divine spirit, and the stretched-out vista boosts the excitement of the adventure. Shimla is an ideal place for nature lovers, wanderlust travellers, photographers, religious devotees, and sports enthusiasts with historical ties to several places.

Popular Places to Visit in Shimla

Shimla has numerous popular attractions to visit, ranging from religious sites and ancient buildings to rivers and sanctuaries. Even before reaching the city, the tourists can begin to experience the excitement of the place in the Kalka-Shimla toy train. One can enjoy the city attractions as well as the popular sites situated some distance away from the town. No matter the transportation option or the tourist place selected, the display of the grand landscape is guaranteed. The popular places can be reached easily on foot, but the option of cars and, in some places, bicycles is also available. The destination is suitable for a visit for the entire year. Riddled with some of the exquisite destinations within the city and outside of it as well makes it a favorite place for vacation. But there are a few sites that are popular and, thus are a must-visit are listed below.

The Jakhu Temple

The Jakhu temple is a religious site located at the highest peak of Shimla. It houses a 108 ft. tall statue of Lord Hanuman in its premises. The temple has its mythological origins in the Ramayana. It is at this very hilltop where Lord Hanuman met the sage Yaaku on his journey to retrieve Sanjeevani booti for the revival of Lord Laxmana. Yaaku taught him the essentials about the herb that helped Lord Hanuman. Every year, numerous devotees visit the temple to seek blessings. The temple is reachable by car or on foot by a small trek. In 2017, another option arrived- the Jakhu Ropeway. It is an aerial cable car that takes tourists to the temple in 6 minutes. The ropeway is a standalone attraction of Shimla as well. In the gondolas, the tourists can absorb the beautiful scenery around them en route to the temple.

The Mall Road

The Mall Road is a favourite tourist spot of Shimla and is worth taking a tour of. The view of the historic buildings, the shops, and cozy restaurants adds to the beauty of this quaint town. The shops are famous for their cotton and woollen handicrafts. There is a Lakkar bazar that specifically sells wooden items. The cafes offer delicious local cuisines worth trying. Vehicles are prohibited on this road, enabling a pollution-free zone. The place hosts the Scandal Point, the Gaity Theatre, the Town Hall and the Kali Bari temple. The statue of freedom fighter Lala Lajpat Rai adorns the Scandal point. The Kali Bari temple is devoted to Goddess Shymala, the incarnation of Goddess Kali, from which the city derives its name. The Gaiety Theatre is a popular social club in Shimla. The town hall, built in the British era, contains several municipal offices.

The Christ Church

Built-in 1857, The Christ Church is the second oldest church in North India. Due to its religious importance, numerous people come from all around India on Christmas evening to pray. The tall yellow building of the church at the Ridge is visible from the Mall Road. The place is a heritage monument of Shimla. The church is simplistic from the inside, but its neo-gothic style architecture enhances its beauty. The illuminated building at night gives it a unique aura. The five stained glass windows remind us of different virtues of Christianity, that is, faith, hope, patience, charity, fortitude, and humanity. A pipe organ was placed in the church in 1899 and is the largest one in India. Mr. Lockwood Kipling, father of the renowned writer Rudyard Kipling, designed the wall fresco. The church also has other antiquities, such as a bell made of brass and a four-faced clock.

The Viceregal Lodge

The Viceregal Lodge used to be the residence of the British Viceroy of India. After independence, it was renamed as Rashtrapati Niwas and was used to be enjoyed by the Indian presidents. The English Renaissance era and the Scottish manors have inspired its Jacobethan architecture. It transports you to a bygone era with its architecture, nicely tended lawns, beautiful greenhouses, and artifacts like photographs and articles kept in the Lodge. Situated on the summit of the Observatory Hills, the second highest point of Shimla, it provides a stunning sight of the valley. It also has several Victorian-era pieces of equipment such as a water collection system beneath the lawns and a steam generator for getting electricity, offering a glimpse into simpler times. Its historical significance also stems from the Shimla Conference that was held in 1945 to discuss the Indian self-government.

Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary

Originally owned by the Rana of Koti, the sanctuary was first set up as a national park in 1990. But later, the Indian government declared it a sanctuary, considering its conservative values. It has a dense covering of oak, fir, and deodar trees with nine perennial river streams. It is also the habitat of species like snow leopards, flying squirrels, Himalayan bears, barking deer, red foxes, etc. The water collects during rain at this place, which is then harvested at a plant and is a major source of drinking water for the city. One can traverse the sanctuary by bicycle or by foot. The sanctuary has many benches throughout where one can rest for a while. Food and water are not available inside the sanctuary, so tourists should remember to carry their eatables. Adding to the thrill are activities like camping, trekking, and mountain climbing in the sanctuary.

Conclusion

People often explore vacation spots either to take a rest from daily life or to have excitement and fun that is usually absent in the boring routine. Shimla can cater to all kinds of people. The mountains and forests provide a serenity to the air combined with the temples and churches. And the same hills stand fierce in the background while one goes for adventure sports. The variety offered by the natural beauty, old buildings, and the range of activities makes it a top destination for a vacation. The delectable local food in fine dining restaurants and buying unique items from the local market greatly enhance the whole experience. Most places are reachable by walking. Moreover, cars and bicycles are available. All in all, the popular destinations in Shimla immersed in its scenic beauty, makes it one of India’s top tourist spots.