Home / blog

Best Places to Visit in Shimla
| Complete Travel Guide

Best Places to Visit in Shimla – Complete Travel Guide

Best Places to Visit in Shimla: Distance, Routes & Stopovers

Best Places to Visit in Shimla – A Complete Travel Guide

Introduction

Nestled in the snow-covered ranges of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla, also known as the Queen of Hills, is one of India’s most beloved hill stations. With its colonial charm, scenic views, and refreshing climate, Shimla has long been a favorite destination for honeymooners, families, and nature enthusiasts.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, spirituality, or relaxation, there are endless places to visit in Shimla that offer a mix of history, beauty, and culture. In this complete travel guide, curated by Shristi Holiday Services, we’ll take you through the best tourist spots, travel tips, and must-do experiences to make your Shimla trip truly memorable. You can also book your Shimla sightseeing tour directly with us for a hassle-free travel experience.

Why Shimla is a Must-Visit Hill Station

Shimla sits gracefully at an altitude of about 2,200 meters above sea level, surrounded by lush pine forests, colonial-era architecture, and lively bazaars. Once the summer capital of British India, it still preserves its old-world charm while embracing modern comforts.

Shimla is perfect for:

  • Nature lovers: Enjoy serene walks, waterfalls, and breathtaking views.
  • Adventure seekers: Try trekking, skiing, and horse riding.
  • Culture enthusiasts: Explore historic buildings, churches, and temples.

Fun Fact: Shimla gets its name from “Shyamala Devi,” another form of Goddess Kali, worshipped at the famous Kali Bari Temple.

Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Shimla

Shimla is full of mesmerizing attractions that reflect its beauty and history. Here are the top 10 must-visit places you shouldn’t miss on your trip.

1. The Ridge, Shimla

Best Places to Visit in Shimla: Distance, Routes & Stopovers

The Ridge is Shimla’s most iconic open space located at the heart of the city. It offers magnificent views of the snow-capped mountains and connects major landmarks like Christ Church and Mall Road. It’s also a venue for festivals, including the famous Summer Festival.

  • Best Time to Visit: March–June and December..
  • What to Do: Enjoy panoramic views, shop for local art, and attend cultural fairs.
  • Travel Tip: Visit early morning for a peaceful atmosphere and great photography.
  • Entry Fee: Free.

2. Mall Road

Best Places to Visit in Shimla: Distance, Routes & Stopovers

Mall Road is the busiest and most vibrant street in Shimla. It’s lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants where visitors can enjoy local food and shopping. Colonial-style benches and vintage street lamps add charm to this iconic walkway.

  • Best Time to Visit: All year, especially evenings.
  • What to Do: Shopping, street photography, dining, and exploring cafés.
  • Travel Tip: Vehicles are not allowed; wear comfortable shoes.
  • Entry Fee: Free.

3. Jakhoo Temple

Best Places to Visit in Shimla: Distance, Routes & Stopovers

Perched atop Jakhoo Hill, the highest point in Shimla (2,455 meters), this temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The towering 108-foot statue of Hanuman is visible from various parts of the city, symbolizing faith and strength.

  • Best Time to Visit: March–October.
  • What to Do: Offer prayers, enjoy the scenic view, and ride the Jakhoo Ropeway.
  • Travel Tip: Be cautious of monkeys; avoid carrying food in hand.
  • Entry Fee: Free.

4. Kufri

Best Places to Visit in Shimla: Distance, Routes & Stopovers

Just 16 km from Shimla, Kufri is known for its snow-clad slopes and adventurous vibe. It’s one of the most popular Shimla tourist attractions and a paradise for skiing lovers and photographers.

  • Best Time to Visit: December–February for snow; April–June for pleasant weather.
  • What to Do: Skiing, horse/yak riding, ziplining, and visiting Himalayan Nature Park.
  • Travel Tip: Start early to avoid traffic; carry warm clothes.
  • Entry Fee: Himalayan Nature Park – ₹20 per person; Adventure Park Kufri – ₹450–₹600 (varies by activity).

For a comfortable day trip, book your Innova Crysta Rental — Shristi Holiday Service or Tempo Traveller rental with Shristi Holiday Services.

5. Christ Church

Best Places to Visit in Shimla: Distance, Routes & Stopovers

Built in 1857, Christ Church is one of North India’s oldest and most beautiful churches. Its neo-Gothic architecture and stained-glass windows represent faith, charity, and hope. Located on The Ridge, it’s a must-visit landmark in Shimla.

  • Best Time to Visit: All year, especially evening hours when illuminated.
  • What to Do: Explore architecture, attend prayer service, and photography.
  • Travel Tip: Be respectful during prayer hours; avoid flash photography.
  • Entry Fee: Free.

6. Green Valley

Best Places to Visit in Shimla: Distance, Routes & Stopovers

Green Valley, located on the way to Kufri, offers postcard-perfect views of pine forests and snow peaks. It’s a peaceful stop where travelers can capture the natural beauty of Shimla’s landscape.

  • Best Time to Visit: April–September for lush greenery.
  • What to Do: Photography, sightseeing, and nature walks.
  • Travel Tip: Visit during sunrise or early morning for the clearest views.
  • Entry Fee: Free.

7. Chadwick Falls

Best Places to Visit in Shimla: Distance, Routes & Stopovers

Located about 7 km from Shimla, Chadwick Falls is a serene waterfall nestled in dense deodar forests. Cascading from a height of 86 meters, it becomes a spectacular sight during the monsoon.

  • Best Time to Visit: July–October (post-monsoon).
  • What to Do: Trekking, photography, and relaxing amid nature.
  • Travel Tip: The trek can be slippery during rain; wear proper shoes.
  • Entry Fee: Free.

8.Summer Hill

One of Shimla’s seven hills, Summer Hill is a peaceful spot known for its scenic beauty and quiet surroundings. The Himachal Pradesh University is located here, adding to its charm.

  • Best Time to Visit: March–June and September–November.
  • What to Do: Walks through forest trails, toy train rides, and photography.
  • Travel Tip: Visit early morning to capture misty mountain views.
  • Entry Fee: Free.

9.Kalka–Shimla Toy Train

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kalka–Shimla Toy Train offers one of the most scenic train rides in the world. The train passes through 102 tunnels and 864 bridges, giving travelers an unforgettable journey through the hills.

  • Best Time to Visit: All year; December–February for snow-covered views.
  • What to Do: Enjoy the journey, capture scenic photos, and sip tea at small hill stations.
  • Travel Tip: Book tickets in advance through IRCTC; window seats fill fast.
  • Entry Fee: ₹500–₹1,000 (depending on train class).

10. Tara Devi Temple

Best Places to Visit in Shimla: Distance, Routes & Stopovers

Located 11 km from Shimla, Tara Devi Temple sits atop Tara Parvat. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Tara and offers a peaceful environment with stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas.

  • Best Time to Visit: October–April.
  • What to Do: Offer prayers, enjoy meditation, and capture scenic views.
  • Travel Tip: Visit early morning or during sunset for less crowd and clear views.
  • Entry Fee: Free.

For temple tours and local sightseeing, you can hire a Car Rental or Innova Hycross from Shristi Holiday Services.

Quick Summary Table

Place Best Time What to Do Entry Fee
The Ridge Mar–Jun, Dec Shopping, sightseeing Free
Mall Road All year Shopping, dining Free
Jakhoo Temple Mar–Oct Worship, ropeway Free
Kufri Dec–Feb Skiing, adventure ₹20–₹600
Christ Church All year Architecture Free
Green Valley Apr–Sep Photography Free
Chadwick Falls Jul–Oct Trekking, nature Free
Summer Hill Mar–Nov Nature walk Free
Toy Train All year Heritage ride ₹500–₹1,000
Tara Devi Temple Oct–Apr Temple visit Free

Best Time to Visit Shimla

Shimla is a year-round destination, each season offering a unique charm:

  • Summer (Mar–Jun): Ideal for sightseeing and adventure.
  • Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Green and refreshing, but occasional landslides.
  • Winter (Oct–Feb): Best for snowfall and cozy stays.
  • Entry Fee: Free.

Check out Tour Packages from Shristi Holiday Services for each season.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

  • Mashobra: Apple orchards and forest trails.
  • Naldehra: Famous for its golf course and mountain views.
  • Chail: Royal palace and highest cricket ground in the world.
  • Narkanda: Perfect for skiing and apple picking.

For group travel, consider booking a Tempo Traveller Rental for day trips around Shimla.

Why Choose Shristi Holiday Services for Your Shimla Tour

At Shristi Holiday Services, we make your Shimla journey smooth, safe, and memorable.We offer:

  • • Clean, well-maintained cars for local and outstation tours.
  • • Experienced, polite drivers familiar with Himachal routes.
  • • Affordable sightseeing and Tour Packages.
  • • 24/7 customer assistance and on-time service.

Book your Shimla sightseeing tour today with Shristi Holiday Services and explore the best places to visit in Shimla with complete comfort and trust.

You can also explore our popular vehicles like Innova Crysta, Innova Hycross, Fortuner Hire, or Tempo Traveller rental.

Conclusion

Shimla truly lives up to its title as the Queen of Hills. Whether it’s the charm of Mall Road, the serenity of Kufri, or the divine peace of Tara Devi Temple, every corner of Shimla offers a story and a view worth cherishing.

Plan your trip with Shristi Holiday Services and experience the beauty, adventure, and tranquility that make Shimla one of India’s top travel destinations.For bookings, Contact Us or call +91-9782624495.

Top FAQs About Shimla – Travel Guide 2025

Some of the best places to visit in Shimla include The Ridge, Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, Kufri, Christ Church, Chadwick Falls, Green Valley, Summer Hill, Tara Devi Temple, and the Kalka–Shimla Toy Train route.

The best time to visit Shimla is March to June for pleasant weather and December to February for snowfall.

A 3 to 4-day trip is ideal to cover the top tourist attractions in Shimla, including Kufri, Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, and nearby spots like Mashobra or Chail. You can also explore the Jaipur to Shimla Road Trip Guide.

By Air: The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti (22 km away).
By Train: Take the famous Kalka–Shimla Toy Train.
By Road: Shimla is well connected from Delhi and Chandigarh.
For a safe journey, book a Car Rental from Shristi Holiday Services.

Shopping on Mall Road, skiing in Kufri, trekking to Jakhoo Hill, and riding the Toy Train. You can explore more in our Shimla Travel Packages.

Absolutely! It’s a snowy paradise. Hire an Innova Crysta rental or Tempo Traveller rental for a comfortable ride in the hills.

Top nearby attractions include Mashobra, Chail, Naldehra, and Narkanda.

Carry warm clothes, shoes, sunscreen, and essentials.

You can easily book your Shimla sightseeing taxi with Shristi Holiday Services. We offer safe, clean, and affordable Car Rentals in Shimla