Shimla, one of Himachal Pradesh’s delightfully scenic and unspoiled hill stations, has long been a popular destination in northern India, drawing families from domestic and foreign travel. Famous tourist attractions in Shimla include museums, art galleries, religious monuments, and snow-capped hills. Shimla is a year-round destination, but September through May is the ideal time to go.
The renowned “Goddess Shyamala Devi,” a manifestation of Goddess Kali, is the inspiration behind the name of this quaint hill village in Himachal Pradesh. It is India’s most sought-after hill resort because of its breathtaking scenery and pleasant climate. The top things to do in Shimla are listed here:
1. Christ Church Shimla
Christ Church is the second-oldest church in North India and the main draw of Shimla. Colonel J.T. Boileau constructed it in 1884. When Shimla was a British town, the church served the predominantly Anglican community. Shimla has undergone numerous changes over the years, many of which the church has witnessed.
The Neo-Gothic style is reflected in the church’s architecture. The focal point of the church is its windows. The five glass windows of the church entice visitors from nearby settlements to come and take in their beauty. It is well known that every window in the church represents a different Christian virtue, such as charity, faith, hope, fortitude, patience, and humility. You should visit this popular holy site in Shimla while you’re here.
All visitors are welcome at the church from Monday through Saturday, from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The church is quiet within, but outside, at the ridge, a popular tourist destination, it is another world. For this reason, the Christ Church is referred to as a gift from a bygone era.
One attraction that first comes to mind when one thinks of Shimla is Christ Church. This chapel exudes a distinct charm all its own. This is the ideal place if you want to spend some time alone in a serene and spiritual setting. You can also take in the town’s other attractions with the many carefully designed Shimla tour packages.
2. Viceregal Lodge
The Viceregal Lodge, also known as Rashtrapati Niwas, is one of Shimla’s most magnificent buildings. Situated atop Shimla’s scenic observatory hill, the beautiful Niwas is masterfully created in the Jacobean style, with English characteristics evoking a revival of the Renaissance.
Viceregal Lodge’s centrepiece is its exquisite and distinctive teak-panelled interiors. Furthermore, as soon as you view the tower, you will undoubtedly experience the magical world of Harry Potter.
Viceregal Lodge is among the most significant locations for art and history enthusiasts. There is a big reception hall, a staircase, a magnificent facade, artefacts, lovely lush gardens, and a fantastic lifetime experience. A few photos and inscriptions from the era of British colonialism are also visible.
The Viceregal Lodge in Shimla has become the Indian Institute of Advanced Study. However, you can still visit the buildings with a guide.
3. The Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex
The Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex, created in the Gothic Victorian style by renowned architect Henry Irwin, includes a conference centre, an amphitheatre, a multipurpose theater, and a city museum. Its main draw is a Victorian theatre that hosts performances by well-known performers like Baten Powel, Prithvi Raj Kapoor, and Rudyard Kipling.
The theater’s highlights are a variety of events and excellent performers. One of the locations is a historic cultural center showcasing historical artefacts and crafts. Come here if you enjoy exploring landmark locations. Because of the snowfall that adds to its charm, it is one of the most significant places to visit in Shimla in December.
4. Jakhu Temple
One of Shimla’s most important religious sites is Jakhu Temple, especially for those who worship Hanuman. The tall, almost 108-foot statue of the Hindu god Hanuman is the main draw of the Jakhu temple.
According to legend, Lord Hanuman took a short break here while he looked for Sanjivani Booti, who could bring Lord Laxman back to life. Because of these beliefs, many devotees visit the temple, regarded as one of the most holy places in Shimla.
A sense of tranquility, calm, and purity permeates the sanctuary. Since the location is devoted to Lord Hanuman, many monkeys are in and around the temple complex. Unless you taunt them, though, they won’t hurt you.
5. Tara Temple
Situated on a verdant hill approximately a kilometer from Shimla, Tara Devi Temple is another revered location in Shimla. From Kalka to Shimla, stop by the well-known Goddess Tara Devi shrine.
The Tara Devi temple, famous for its spiritual and historical significance, is thought to have been constructed about 250 years ago. In the early days of the enchanted temple, a wooden idol of Tara Devi was positioned within its complex.
Later, the temple moved to the summit of the hill, where a more beautiful idol of the god—made from an uncommon eight-element combination—was placed. The Tara Devi Temple is surrounded by lush greenery and situated atop Tarav Parvat. From the summit, one can enjoy a fantastic view of the entire valley.
Tara Devi Temple is an absolute must-see when visiting Shimla because of its breathtaking view of the majestic Himalayan mountains and immaculate green meadows.
6. Naldehra
Shimla welcomes all golf enthusiasts with wide open spaces and a calm atmosphere. In the hill station, golf has become one of the most popular sports. Beautiful golf courses with stunning scenery can be found in Shimla. The captivating natural beauty of the surrounding area enhances Shimla’s fantastic golfing experience.
The picturesque surroundings and abundant vegetation heighten the allure of golfing in Himachal Pradesh. This sophisticated, leisurely game is ideal for people looking to unwind and refresh in a peaceful environment. Naldehra is one of the top golfing locations in Shimla.
Under the direction of Lord Curzon, who was so taken by the breathtaking scenery that he called the golf course Naldhera after the family’s youngest daughter, Naldehra. Furthermore, one of the oldest golf courses in India is the Naldehra Golf Course in Shimla, which is renowned for its enchanting beauty.
The 18-hole PAR 68 course features 18 tees and 16 greens, and its layout is evocative of Scottish links courses. The course was once constructed with nine holes but eventually expanded to eighteen. The only and most fantastic site to play golf in Shimla is Naldehra.
Conclusion
There are many places in Shimla that you can enjoy while on a trip. The region has a lot to offer. Hopefully, this guide was helpful for you if you are planning a trip to Shimla in 2024.
