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 era, it is today a thriving Capital of a State, famous for its snowcapped peaks, apples, pine forests, flowers and gentle smiling people.

Visitors come to Shimla to walk down its famous Mall Road and also to experience Shimla in its many hues from spring flowers to autumn leaves, from the soothing green & gentle breeze of Summer to its Winter snows. It is truly a "Destination for all seasons".

A special delight is to travel by one of the few remaining mountain Railways in the world-the toy train to Shimla - as it winds through 103 tunnels during its 90 km journey up the mountains.

Attractions

Christ Church and St. Michael's Cathedral : This famous landmark church of Shimla was built over a span of 11 years (1846-1857) and its the second oldest church of northern India. The beauty of the church is enhanced by the stained glass in its windows. The building looks all the more beautiful at night when its grand architecture glows with clever lighting. Another important church in Shimla is the Church of St. Michael's Cathedral.

Chadwick Falls : These are the 67 metres high water falls which come streaming down from the Summer Hill. The falls are set amidst thick forest at a height of 1586 metres. The falls are at their best after monsoons. You can go and explore the tracks in the forest on your own, deodar trees line the forest. There are also some old temples closeby and a fair is held here in April every year.

Himachal State Museum and Library : Around two and a half kilometres from Scandal Point is Himachal State Museum and Library. The museum displays a collection of historical sculptors, paintings, coins and photos relating to the history of entire state. The museum itself is housed in a colonial building perched over hill top. The gallery also has an exquisite collection of paintings which are the last pieces of the Indian artform, the Pahari miniature art form before the Western form took over. There are dozens of Mughal and Rajasthani miniature paintings.

Vicegral Lodge & Botanical Gardens : Also known as 'Rashtrapati Niwas', Vicegral Lodge is located on Observatory Hills. A magnificent structure, it was once the residence of British Viceroy, Lord Dufferein. A six storey structure stands tall on the hill surrounded by well maintained gardens and lawns which make a contrasting picture. The lodge is now the Institute of Advanced Study .

The Mall : This is the heart of Shimla. This is the place where the taps of horses sounded in the British India, and British Officers with their wives walked here. It was a place where everyone loved to be seen. Things have not changed even today as people still love to be seen here. It is the place where honeymooners pose for photographs or the young couples move around hand in hand. You have to come here to feel the pulse of the place. There is nothing much special about the entire place, yet it is close to everyone. Never low, never without life, you will always find the place bustling with Indian and Foreign tourists.

The Prospect Hill : The Prospect hill here, at the height of 2155 metres, is a 15 minute walk from Boileauganj on Shimla Bilaspur road. Perched on the hill top is a temple of Kamna Devi.

Jakho Temple : JakhoTemple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman is perched on a 2438 metres high hill, which goes with the same name. It is the highest point in Shimlas, and makes a towering impact. The popularity of the temple can be judged from the fact that no one leaves Shimla without paying a visit to the Jakho temple.

Tara Devi : Located on Tara Parvat is the temple of Tara Devi, about 15 kilometres from Shimla. The view from the temple is very beautiful. The forested hills around lend a tranquility to the area. A road meanders uphill through the pine forest.

Getting There :

By Air : The nearest airport is at Jubbarhati, 23 km from Shimla, and is linked to Chandigarh, Kullu and Delhi.

By Rail : Shimla is connected with a broad gauge railway line up to Kalka and after that by narrow gauge line.

Kalka to Shimla is 90 km. The journey takes about 6 hours, the train winds its way through 103 tunnels and some picturesque scenery.

By Road : Shimla is connected by road with Kalka, Chandigarh, Ambala, Delhi, Dehradun, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Amritsar, Jammu and other towns of Punjab and Haryana.