Welcome to the summer capital of the British, the best refuge for summers of the plains of Northern India. 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. The most frequent area of Shimla happens to be the Mall. The shopping hub of the hill resort is always crowded with tourists. The picturesque surroundings and the shops selling a wide spectrum of items have made the Mall the biggest landmark of Shimla. Close by is the The six-storeyed Vice-Regal Lodge or Rashtrapati Niwaswhich makes the other much visit landmark. The architectural style and the lovely lawns are bewitchingly beautiful. You may even move at light ahead and spot the state bird of Himachal Pradesh Monal pheasant at the Himalayan aviary besides a large number of other birds.

Besides the temple dedicated to the Goddess Shymala the hill resorts boasts of the famous Jhaku Temple. The temple of the monkey faced God Hanuman at the height of 8048 feet above sea level and offers a panoramic view of the city. The collection of the statues, miniatures, coins and photos at the state Museum is as awe aspiring as the stained glass windows of the Christ Church and St. Michael’s Cathedral.

The hill resort also offers picture perfect picnic spots in the lap of lovely nature. Amidst the glen forests near the stream and then a little ahead amongst the deodar forests at Annandale are the best bets for family picnics.

You may plan your trip to Shimla anytime of the year. When the plains experience scorching summers, Shimla is cool with temperature less than 25 degrees. In winters it is the best sport for fun and frolic. The adventure sports simply take over the land. The Christmas and the New Year’s Eve are best spent in the snowfall at Shimla with your near and dear ones.

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.

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.

The capital city for the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh is at a distance of 343 km from Delhi, 260 km from Manali, and 119 km from Chandigarh. The city airport is well connected with Delhi and Kullu through regular flights.

Now regardless of the fact that you are planning for your summer vacations of winter holidays Shimla is going to be happy.