Beautiful landscapes, warm and welcoming hospitality and thrilling winter sports, and a pleasant climate are just a few of the adventures you’ll have in Shimla one of India’s most loved and most famous hill stations. It’s a place where adrenaline addicts can get their jolt, while it also attracts people who love nature, history enthusiasts, and solo travelers with many things to do. From hiking, trekking, and camping, to sightseeing and skating on the ice there are many activities to do when you check into your hotels in Shimla.

Do you want to plan an itinerary that will include the most memorable experiences you can have in this picturesque hill station? Here is a list of places to visit in Shimla to assist you in planning your journey.

Hence, to enjoy a classic holiday, book your cheap flights to Shimla soon.

Take the Kalka – Shimla Toy Train Ride

A ride on The Shimla Toy Train is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience your childhood while taking in the charm of old-fashioned Himachal Pradesh. The narrow gauge railway runs across some breathtaking scenery, deodar and oak forests, and charming stations that appear to have been frozen in the past. Set aside a few hours of your Shimla excursion to visit the UNESCO World Heritage icon that is more than 100 years old. And, here’s the best part: this ride of 96 kilometers will traverse 100+ tunnels, as well as over 800 viaducts and bridges.

Popular Trains: Himalayan Queen, Kalka Shimla Express, Shimla Kalka Passenger
Journey Time: 6 Hours (approx.)
Tickets are priced between Rs 65 and Rs 470, approx. (depending on the type of class selected)

Visit the Shimla Ridge

Every major town on the hill has that particular spot where crowds gather for various events. For Shimla, it is the Ridge. Apart from the colonial-era architecture, Gothic structures, bars and restaurants and shops, boutiques and cafes and cafes, the Ridge is an ideal spot for people-watching or town photos. In winter, the snow-covered streets are an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers who visit for the wintery landscapes.

Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Shop at Lakkar Bazaar

If you’re on the Ridge and you are in the Ridge, make sure to go towards the nearby Lakkar Bazaar, one of the most popular shopping destinations in Shimla. The bazaar on the street is famous for its wooden toys carved and curios that are created for the local Sikh community. Alongside these classic Shimla souvenirs, it is also possible to enjoy tasty snacks at the local eateries. It is said that the Chole features and aloo tikki from Sita Ram are not to be missed. The afternoons and evenings, are the ideal time to enjoy the lively atmosphere of the markets.

Timings: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
What to Buy: Wooden toy including strollers, pashmina scarfs, woolens Kullu Shawls, and handicrafts

Chill Out at the Mall Road

Your Shimla journey would not be complete without wandering through markets and crowds along the Mall Road, the commercial and leisure center of town. From jewelry and handicrafts to souvenirs and books, you can purchase an array of amazing items in this market. The tourist destinations in the area, like The Scandal Point, Gaiety Theater, and Town Hall will add to the experience. Walking aimlessly along Mall Road Mall Road hunting for bargains is definitely one of the most enjoyable activities you can do while in Shimla.

Timings: 9:00 am to 9:00 pm

Explore Johnnie’s Wax Museum

Are you interested in spending time with historical figures, world-renowned sporting icons, your favourite film stars, and other famous characters made out of wax? Go to Johnnie’s Wax Museum, one of the top attractions in Shimla. It’s a tiny museum and it will take you about an hour to greet all the people who live there which includes Mahatma Gandhi Harry Potter, James Bond as well as Michael Jackson. Snap a few photos with your most loved celebrities and share some laughs.

Timings: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
Fee for Entry for entry: Rs 250 per person

Go Trekking

The fact that it is situated in the middle of an enthralling topography is what makes Shimla an ideal base for moderate hikes. A good time to begin is early for single-day hikes, but there are numerous options for multi-day treks as well, that are organized by local authorities. Take a hike along these mountain paths, stroll through thick alpine trees, and relish the view of the snow-capped mountains that are a part of wherever you go.

Camp Under the Stars

Camping in the open is among the most enjoyable activities in Shimla for couples or children. There are numerous campsites within Shimla and surrounding Shimla which you could pick among high altitude areas or valleys, as well as forests which are typically near a stream or water supply. In these camping trips you are also able to engage in activities that require adventure, have campfires and take part in hiking tours.

Popular Camping Sites in Shimla: Mashorba, Narkanda, Junga, Shogi, and Kufri
Camping Season: April to June, September to October

Hike to Jakhu Hill and Temple

A trek to Jakhu Hill and Temple, located at an altitude of 2455m above sea-level, has to be among the most sought-after activities in Shimla for those who love adventure. The hike will leave you breathless both literally as well as metaphorically because of the breathtaking views of alpine trees as well as the snow-covered Shivalik Mountains. The top is also an ideal spot to visit the ancient Hanuman Temple where you can see the world’s largest 108-foot Hanuman statue.

Temple Timings: 7:00 am to 8:00 pm

Enjoy the Architectural Splendor of the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies

The highly regarded Indian Institute of Advanced Studies is among the most well-known research institutions in the nation. In addition to providing research facilities to smart minds from across the world, this institution is also an important part of the city’s architectural heritage. It was built during the late 19th century as the residence of Lord Dufferin The structure is a model an architectural style that is reminiscent of Victorian design. It is also a historic landmark because it was the location at the 1945 Shimla Conference, where the decision to establish Pakistan was made.

Timings:
July to April – 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
May to June – 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
Closed on Mondays
Entry Cost: Rs 40 for Indians and the fee is Rs 85 for foreigners. $20 for the garden visit

Enjoy a Session of Ice Skating at Shimla Ice Skating Club

Shimla Ice Skating Club, that has been in operation for just under 100 years old, has the only open-air , naturally created skate rink across the United States. You can hire skates on the facility and register for classes. The club also hosts numerous carnivals, events and competitions throughout the year Keep your eyes open for events for them on this Shimla calendar. It’s no surprise that a trip to the club for skating is among the most enjoyable things to experience in Shimla with your kids and family.