Shimla
The Queen of the Hills
Shimla, the 'Queen of the Hills', was the summer capital of British India and still wears its colonial past with charm — gabled cottages, a mock-Tudor town hall and the neo-Gothic Christ Church looking out over the Ridge. At around 2,200 m, the air is crisp and the deodar forests run right up to the streets.
It is the easiest Himalayan hill station to reach — the gateway to Himachal from Chandigarh — and a relaxed first stop with the famous UNESCO toy train, lively Mall Road and easy snow points nearby.
The Ridge, Mall Road & the toy train
Stroll the open Ridge and the pedestrian Mall for cafés, colonial facades and mountain views, then climb to Jakhoo Temple and its giant Hanuman statue. Arrive — or leave — on the Kalka–Shimla 'toy train', a UNESCO World Heritage narrow-gauge line that winds through 100-plus tunnels. We handle station transfers and parking so the day stays easy.
Snow & day-trips
Kufri and Mashobra, a short drive away, are the go-to spots for snow, horse rides and valley views, while Naldehra's golf course and Chail's palace make laid-back add-ons. Many travellers pair Shimla with Manali for a classic Himachal circuit.
Highlights
- The Ridge & Christ Church
- Mall Road cafés and shopping
- Kalka–Shimla UNESCO toy train
- Jakhoo Temple & Hanuman statue
- Snow and views at Kufri & Mashobra
