Shimla, Himachal Pradesh City Guide: Where To Go, Stay, Eat, And shop in India’s best city. [Updated-2025]

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh City Guide: Where To Go, Stay, Eat, And shop in India’s best city. 

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is a popular hill station known for its colonial architecture, scenic beauty, and pleasant climate. It was once the summer capital of British India and remains a major tourist and administrative hub in northern India. The city is famous for its snow-covered mountains, pine forests, and vibrant local culture.

1. Location & Geography

• Situated in the western Himalayas, at an altitude of 2,276 meters (7,467 feet).
• Surrounded by dense cedar, pine, and oak forests.
• Lies along NH-5, connecting it to Chandigarh, Delhi, and other hill towns.

2. Economy & Industries

• Tourism:
  • Major contributor to the economy, attracting millions of visitors annually.
• Education & Administration:
  • Houses government offices, schools, and universities.
• Agriculture & Horticulture:
  • Known for apples, peaches, and apricots, supporting a strong fruit trade.
• Handicrafts & Retail:
  • Famous for woodwork, woolen garments, and traditional Himachali products.

3. Education & Institutions

• Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) – The main higher education institute.
• Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS) – A renowned research center.
• Bishop Cotton School & St. Edward’s School – Some of India’s oldest schools.
• Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) – A leading medical institution in North India.

4. Tourist & Cultural Attractions

• The Ridge – A scenic open space with colonial-era buildings.
• Mall Road – The main shopping and dining street, lined with cafés and boutiques.
• Jakhoo Temple – A famous Hanuman temple on the highest peak of Shimla.
• Christ Church – One of the oldest churches in North India, built in 1857.
• Kufri – A nearby skiing and adventure sports destination.
• Tara Devi Temple – A peaceful Hindu temple with panoramic views.
• Viceregal Lodge (IIAS) – The former British summer residence, now a historical site.

5. Connectivity & Transport

• By Road: Well-connected via NH-5, with buses and taxis to Delhi (350 km), Chandigarh (115 km), and Manali.
• By Rail:
  • Kalka-Shimla Toy Train (UNESCO Heritage) connects to Kalka Railway Station.
  • From Kalka, trains link to Delhi, Chandigarh, and other cities.
• By Air:
  • Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti, 22 km away) has limited flights.
  • Chandigarh Airport (120 km away) offers better connectivity.