Shimla is a beautiful hill station in north India set in scenic surroundings in the Himalayas. It was the summer capital during the former British Raj and a very popular retreat during the hot Indian summers. There are many buildings here that are marked by their characteristic Victorian architecture which reflect the city's colonial influence. It is often referred to as the Queen of snowy hills and is one of the most beautiful cities of India. The climate is quite pleasant and you can take a walk down the Ridge and Scandal Point to have an excellent view of the surrounding mountains. There are many other places in Shimla that you should check out like the Mall which is the main shopping area, the famous Jakhu Temple on the Jakhu hills, Christ Church and Dorje Drag Monastery.

Impressed by its majestic location and cool climatic conditions, the British designated Shimla as the summer capital of India. Most of the buildings in the town are built in Victorian style, depicting the influence of British on the city, while the banned traffic to the city's historical center means that environment here is calm and unpolluted. This lovely hill station is located 370km from New Delhi, and is accessible both by road and railways. The nearest broad head gauge is at Kalka. After that, it starts the wonderful journey by mountain train from Kalka to Shimla. This incredible railway trek is World Heritage Site designated by UNESCO and passes through breathtaking scenic vistas and amazing 104 tunnels. The best time to visit Shimla is the summer or the winter months. It's advisable not to plan your Shimla holiday in rainy season, as there are a lot of landslides on the way.

The hills in summer and the snowy mist in the winters welcome the tourists with enchanting glory and capture them with irresistible charm. Along with the spell bound beauty offered by the city, Shimla also offers the tourist the best handicrafts of Himachal Pradesh. Woolen and Pashmina Shawls are renown in the entire world market.

Shimla tours are becoming more and more popular- the main reason being the wide spectrum of activities you can enjoy together with extraordinary natural beauty. Shimla tour packages are recommended for those who love the adrenaline rush, as they can enjoy mountaineering, skiing and ice skating during winter months, or rock climbing, camping and rafting during warmer months. For those who love trekking, Shimla is offering several treks and you can pick those that fit your endurance and time table. Shimla is very often chosen as honeymoon destination as it gives everything a newly wedded couple can wish for.

The Mall, like most hill stations in North India, is the main shopping centre of Shimla. It also has many restaurants, clubs, banks, bars, Post Offices and tourist offices. The Gaiety Theatre is also situated there. People walk up and down the Mall slowly, stopping to gossip, as it is the main meeting place for everyone. The Ridge and Scandal point are the two main meeting points at the Mall.

Fresh corn flour that is grounded with water and eaten with milk is one of the most popular ingredients in the local cuisines of Shimla. Shimla cuisines include both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food and thus offering a suitable food habit for all kinds of people. Some of the most popular vegetarian dishes include kaddu ka khatta, guchhi matter and sepu vadi while famous non-vegetarian dishes include kullu trout, grilled fish and chicken anaardana. Taste these delicious local cuisines and enhance the delicacy of a Shimla trip.