“Live Once, Live in Shimla: The Ultimate Himalayan Dream Life”

Christ Church, with its iconic yellow Gothic-style architecture and tall clock

tower.

Why is Shimla best for the summer vacation?

🌡️ Weather Overview

• Temperature Range: 15°C to 30°C
• Climate: Pleasant and breezy; ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and outdoor exploration.
• Why visit in the summer? It’s the perfect escape from the scorching heat of the plains. Shimla offers a cool and scenic retreat with lush greenery and blooming rhododendrons.

What to Pack for Shimla in Summer

• Light woolens for evening chill
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• Comfortable walking shoes
• A camera or a phone for capturing those stunning views

Travel Guide to Shimla

Delhi to Shimla travel guide

If you have the extra time or you’re backpacking, you can catch a bus from Delhi, Chandigarh, or Rajasthan and wind your way directly up to Shimla, and the journey can take anything from 10 to 12 hours.

If you’re in a rush and just visiting for a short weekend, you can catch the newly released direct flight from Delhi via Air India, which only flies on Wednesdays and Sundays.

Road trip to Shimla

• Start early to take advantage of the clear highways; aim to reach Chandigarh on time.
• Once you pass Chandigarh, prepare for one of the most breathtaking drives through the hills:
  • The track is a 4-lane track with rocky mountains on one side and deep valleys on the other.
  • Don’t forget to slow down and enjoy the spectacular views.
• Brace yourself for the last 60 km:
  • The road is rough, often under maintenance, and filled with potholes.
  • Bump and jostle through tight, winding turns — it’s not the most comfortable part of the journey.
  • Keep your spirits up and drive carefully; eventually, you’ll reach Shimla, tired but mesmerised by the experience.
• Arriving in Shimla, be prepared to be enchanted:
  • A true gem nestled in the Himalayas, with a serene atmosphere and historical charm.
  • Shimla is more commercialized compared to other hill stations, so the town is buzzing with activity.
• Explore the bustling streets and head towards the iconic viewpoint.
  • The Shimla skyline is a must-see, with sloping rooftops and colonial buildings.
  • You’ll immediately understand why the British chose this as their summer capital.
  • While Delhi is burning hot, the air in Shimla is refreshingly cold, even in the peak summer.
• After a long journey, take a short afternoon nap to recharge.
  • This will help you be fresh and ready to explore Shimla’s charm in the evening.
  • The town comes alive with lights, culture, and cool mountain air.

Top Attractions

Must-see places ➖

• The Ridge—Open space with panoramic views, surrounded by colonial buildings. Iconic for sunsets and events.
• Kufri—16 km from Shimla; great for snow in winter, skiing, yak rides, and hiking.
• Green Valley—a scenic spot en route to Kufri, known for lush pine and deodar trees.
• Chadwick Falls—A peaceful waterfall nestled in the forest, especially nice during monsoon.
• Mashobra & Naldehra—Calm getaways with apple orchards and the oldest golf course in India.

KUFRI (less snow, more green views)

“In Shimla’s arms, where the mountains sigh,

Love Blooms beneath the

 Misty sky”

Top Places To Visit in Shimla During Summer

• Mall Road
• Jakhoo Temple
• Annandale and Summer Hills

Best Activities to Do

• Scenic walks and Nature trails
• Toy train ride (Kalka-Shimla)
• Ice cream or cold coffee on Mall Road
• Photography sessions on the forest trails
• Short treks or horse riding in Kufri
• Picnic near waterfalls

THE MALL ROAD

“Cherish your time and soak in every inch of Shimla’s breathtaking beauty.

As the sun sets, let the romance in the air guide you through the charming cafés of Mall Road.

And to truly witness how beautiful life can be, let the serenity of Chadwick Falls steal your breath away.”

Where to Stay in Shimla

🏨 Budget Stays (₹1000–₹2500 per night)

Great for backpackers, solo travelers, and low-key getaways.

1. Hotel Green View—Near Mall Road, simple rooms with great views.

2. Hotel Shingar—Central location, clean, affordable.

3. YMCA Shimla—Colonial charm on a budget, walking distance from The Ridge.

4. Backpacker’s Homestay—cozy, friendly host, good hillside vibes.

5. Snow Valley Resorts (budget rooms)— Some rooms fall in the mid-budget category, often discounted.

🛏️ Mid-Range Stays (₹2500–₹6000 per night)

Comfortable, scenic, and centrally located.

• Hotel Willow Banks—right on Mall Road, a great mix of comfort & accessibility.

• Honeymoon in Shimla—charming rooms and panoramic views, ideal for couples.

• Koti Resort—15 km from Shimla, a serene location with excellent hill views.

• Hotel Combermere—great amenities, just a walk from The Ridge.

• The Zion Shimla—a modern boutique hotel with hillside views.

👑 Luxury Stays (₹6000+ per night)

Ideal for a luxurious hill station experience.

• Wildflower Hall—An Oberoi Resort

• Set amid cedar forests, luxury on another level. Private balconies, a spa, and an infinity pool.

• Taj Theog Resort & Spa

1. 1. • About 30 km from Shimla, stunning views of the Himalayas. Perfect for a relaxed, exclusive experience.

• Clarkes Hotel

• Heritage luxury with a colonial touch, on Mall Road.

• Radisson Hotel Shimla

1. 1. • Modern luxury with forest views, good for families or business stays.

• Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels

• Classic hill retreat with comfort, dining, and tranquility.

🏡 Cottage Stays—Romantic or Peaceful Getaways

• Snow Valley Cottages, Mashobra

1. 1. • Peaceful and surrounded by deodar trees, great for couples.

• Woodsmoke Resort & Spa

1. 1. • Quaint stone cottages, nature all around, spa access.

• Meena Bagh Homes

1. 1. • Eco-friendly luxury cottages in Shimla and Ratnari, perfect for romantic or solo retreats.

• Hillcrest Resort & Cottages, Shoghi

1. 1. • Offbeat, quiet, and ideal for a serene stay.

• Toshali Royal View Cottages

• Overlooking lush valleys, with private space and romantic ambiance.

Local Food to Try

• Madra, Chana Madra, Siddu
• Himanchali Dham
• Cafes on Mall Road for summer treats (cold coffee, ice cream, waffles)

Final Thoughts: Why Shimla Should Be on Your Bucket List

Shimla is more than just a destination; it’s a retreat into nature’s embrace, where every corner offers a new adventure and every moment feels like a dream. Whether you’re exploring the colonial charm of Mall Road, taking in breathtaking views from The Ridge, or relaxing by the serene waters of Chadwick Falls, Shimla invites you to slow down and savour the beauty of the mountains. Perfect for a summer escape, this Himalayan gem offers a refreshing break from the heat, providing cool breezes, lush greenery, and a peaceful atmosphere. With its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, Shimla promises memories that will stay with you long after you leave. Embrace the magic of Shimla — a place where the mountains whisper stories and every step brings you closer to the ultimate dream vacation.