Things to do in Shimla

Trekking is a very exciting adventure sport, where one has to map a journey on foot from one mountain incline to another mountain incline. Every mountain slope in Shimla is distinct from the other, with varying altitude and terrain, where one can find them treading through jungle terrains, undulating slopes and snow cap mountains.

The magnificent hills surrounded by snowy peaks are ideal for trekking in Shimla in India. The Himachal Pradesh Development Corporation (HPTDC) provides guidance, camps, equipment and hospitality services to all trekkers.

Some popular trekking places around Shimla are Chharabra, Naldehra, and Narkanda. One can also venture out for the famous treks of Hattu Peak via Sutlej Valley and trek to Tara Devi temple from Shimla.

Shimla is a beautiful hill station at the foothill of the Himalayas and is characterized by lush greeneries, undulating slopes, valleys, mountains, rivers and snow during winters. Over the years Shimla has become a much preferred destination for honeymoon couples, who apart from local sightseeing of the temples and museums, indulges in a load of other adventure activities in Shimla like Paragliding, Mountain Biking, Heli-Skiing, Camping, Golfing and Trekking. Honeymoon Couples also visit Shimla to try Ice Skiing during the winter months.

Shimla’s famous things to buy include woollen shawls and caps, Tibetan jewellery, wooden objects, Himachali hats, and local handicrafts. Himalayan spices and fruit preserves are also incredibly popular items to buy from local shops. You can also get warm thin and thick blankets, mountain pickles, and unique books here. If you want to shop to your heart’s content, head to Lakkar Bazaar, Mall Road, and Tibetan Market during your tour.

Shimla’s Mall Road is the heart of the hill station and is the best place for a stroll in the evenings. It is a hub of heritage landmarks like old shops and houses which you can admire and learn about. Visit attractions like Christ Church and Scandal Point as you shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs here. Mall Road is also famous for its cosy cafes where you can enjoy local delicacies while admiring the views of the mountains.

There are many fun experiences around Shimla for visitors of all age groups. For adventure lovers, you can go trekking, ice skating, horse riding, skiing, and biking here. If you want to explore nature, head to Himalayan Bird Park for a fun birdwatching experience. You can also admire the mountains on a sightseeing tour to Green Valley, Summer Hill, and Chadwick Falls. River rafting and hot spring baths at Tattapani are also popular to-do things near Shimla.

The best things to eat in Shimla are Madra, a combo of lentils and vegetables, and Babru, a sweet puff pastry-like dessert. Dhaam is an all-inclusive dish that includes lentils, rice, and jaggery and is like a Himachali Thali. For non-vegetarians, Chha Gosht and Chicken Anardana are must-try items. Last but not least, a trip to Shimla is incomplete without trying the iconic Siddu, a traditional sweet dish of Himachal Pradesh.

The most popular things to do in Shimla at night are taking a stroll down the Ridge, Mall Road, and Scandal Point. These three locations offer stunning views of the town and the hills as they light up at night. Shopping at night markets like Lakkar Bazaar, Ram Bazaar, and Lower Bazaar is also a great way to spend evenings here. For a spiritual experience, you can attend the evening aartis at Jakhoo Hill and Kali Bari.

One of the best fun things to do in Shimla is hopping on the Kalka Shimla Toy Train. This iconic journey takes you from Kalka to Shimla via a fun train ride crossing tunnels and beautiful stopovers. Horse riding in Shimla is another fun activity, in which you can explore the major attractions around Ridge and Kufri. The trek up to Jakhoo Hill Temple is also a fun yet thrilling experience suitable for all age groups.

Couples in Shimla can enjoy a romantic walk down the Mall Road or a fun horse ride at the Ridge. Spend quality time as you sit in cosy cafes, enjoy local delicacies, and warm beverages, and admire the mountains. Shopping at local markets is also a great way to make memories, as is sightseeing at Christ Church, Kali Bari, and Chadwick Falls. If you want more thrills, trekking, hiking, camping, skiing, and rafting are also on offer here.

Summer is a great time to witness the natural beauty of Shimla’s hills away from the heat of the plains. Go on heritage walks to colonial landmarks like Visceral Lodge, Gaiety Theatre, and the Bandstand, or simply admire the panoramic views from Scandal Point. This is also a great time for trekking, camping, and rafting in and around Shimla. You can also visit natural attractions like Chadwick Falls and Himalayan Bird Park for a fun jungle experience.

Winter transforms Shimla into a snow-covered paradise that justifies its reputation as the Queen of Hills. The best things to do in Shimla in this season is skiing and ice skating, along with trekking and hiking through snowy trails. If you want a more relaxed experience, you can simply play around in the snow and enjoy a cup of coffee at the Mall Road cafes. Enjoy a dip in the hot springs of Tattapani and visit the iconic temples of Jakhoo Hill and Kali Bari.