Sunday, March 12, 2023

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Exploring the Queen of Hills: A Guide to Shimla's Colonial Charm and Natural Beauty

Sanjauli, Shimla
Sanjauli, Shimla


Hey there, travel enthusiasts! Today, we're going to explore the beautiful hill station of Shimla in Himachal Pradesh. Shimla is a popular tourist destination known for its colonial architecture, stunning vistas, and pleasant climate. Let's dive in and see what this charming town has to offer.


Getting there:

Shimla is well-connected to major cities in India via road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is in Chandigarh, about 120 km away, and the nearest railway station is in Kalka, about 90 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Shimla.


Where to stay:

Shimla has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. If you want to experience the colonial charm of Shimla, stay in one of the heritage hotels such as Clarkes Hotel or Wildflower Hall. Alternatively, budget-friendly options include homestays and guesthouses such as Hotel Combermere or Shimla Youth Hostel.


What to do:



Mall Road, Shimla
Mall Road, Shimla

  1. Walk down the Mall Road: The Mall Road is the heart of Shimla, and a stroll down this lively street is a must-do. The road is lined with shops, restaurants, and colonial-era buildings, and offers stunning views of the Himalayas.

  2. Visit Jakhu Temple: Located atop Jakhu Hill, this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman is one of the most popular attractions in Shimla. The climb up to the temple is steep but worth the breathtaking views of the town.



    Shimla Toy train 18mm
    Shimla Toy train 18mm

  3. Take a toy train ride: The Kalka-Shimla toy train is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a scenic ride through the mountains. The train journey takes about 5 hours and offers stunning views of the Himalayas.

  4. Visit the Viceregal Lodge: Built-in 1888, the Viceregal Lodge was the summer residence of the British viceroys. Today, the building houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Study and is open to visitors.

  5. Trek to Chadwick Falls: If you're an adventure seeker, the trek to Chadwick Falls is a must-do. The trek takes you through lush forests and offers stunning views of the waterfall.


Where to eat:

Shimla offers a wide range of dining options, from street food to fine dining. Some must-try dishes include the Himachali dham, a traditional vegetarian meal, and the tandoori trout, a local delicacy. Popular restaurants include Wake and Bake Café, Café Sol, and Baljees.


Conclusion:

Shimla is a charming hill station that offers a perfect blend of colonial-era charm and natural beauty. From its stunning vistas to its bustling streets, there's something for everyone in Shimla. So, pack your bags and head to this beautiful town for an unforgettable experience!


The best time to visit Shimla.


The best time to visit Shimla is from March to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The monsoon season from July to August brings heavy rainfall and is best avoided. The winter season from December to February brings snowfall, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. However, the temperatures can drop below freezing point, so it's important to pack warm clothes.


Budget required to visit Shimla.


The budget required to visit Shimla depends on various factors such as the mode of transportation, type of accommodation, food expenses, and the activities you plan to do.


Accommodation: options range from budget-friendly guesthouses starting from around INR 800 per night to luxury hotels costing over INR 5000 per night.


Transportation: costs will depend on the mode of transportation, with flights being the most expensive and buses being the cheapest.


Food: expenses will also depend on your eating preferences, with street food being a budget-friendly option while restaurants can be more expensive.


Overall, a budget of INR 10,000 to 15,000 per person for a 3-day trip should be sufficient for a comfortable stay in Shimla. However, this can vary based on individual preferences and travel styles.

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