Top 18 Things to do in Shimla

Shimla which used to be one of the most famous Hill stations in India during the British Rule is still very famous among tourists. There are a lot of things to do in Shimla which you can enjoy during your trip to Shimla. We have compiled a list of Top 18 things to do in Shimla. This article includes the top shopping places in, top places to eat, heritage sites  and much more. The things to do in Shimla in this list are not in a ranking order. These are just generally listed.

So, if you are planning a trip to Shimla, go through the Top 18 things to do in Shimla below and thank us later ;

Things to do in shimla

1. Shopping in Shimla 

Most of the shopping places in India are situated in close proximity unlike the bigger towns Chandigarh. The places to enjoy shopping while on your trip to Shimla are:

  • The Mall road – It is one of the most popular places for shopping in Shimla. Most of the branded shops are situated on the Mall road. There are no vehicles allowed on the Mall road. The whole road is covered with shops like in a Mall, thus the name Mall road.
  • Lakkar Bazar is famous for the wooden items available here. You can buy souvenirs for your loved ones from the Lakkar Bazar. The Lakkar Bazar has a variety of beautiful wooden crafts and items available.
  • Lower Bazar is more of a local market. This market is popular among the local residents because it is less costlier than the Mall road and has relatively more options.
  • The Tibetian Market is another popular market in the city. It has a variety of clothing options and is situated near the Scandal Point on the Mall Road

2. Enjoy food | Places to Eat in Shimla 

There are some famous places to eat in Shimla, which are famous among locals. Some of them are:

  • Indian Coffee House situated on the Mall Road.
  • Sitaram’s Chole Bhature at Lakkar Bazar.
  • Chinese food, especially the Momo’s at Chinatown on the Mall Road.
  • Kurkez, Momo’s & other fast food items at Krishna Bakery near the Lift, Mall road.
  • Fast food at City Point.
  • Pani puri & Gol Gappe at Takka Bench, The Ridge.
  • South Indian & Indian food at Sagar Ratna, Mall Road.
  • Various food options at the Baljees on the Mall Road.
  • Jashan Bar & Restaurant on the Mall Road.
  • Fruit Chat near Indira Gandhi Sports Complex, The Mall Road.
  • KFC on the Mall road.
  • Pizza Hut also on the Mall road.

3. Visit the Jakhu Temple through the Ropeway – 

The Jakhu Temple is famous for the 108 feet high statue of Lord Hanuman. This is one of the highest statues of Lord hanuman in the world. Jakhu is the highest point in Shimla. Recently a ropeway has been installed, by which Jakhu is connected to the Mall road. Although it is a small ride but is recommended at least once.

4. Ice Skating Rink – 

Enjoy Ice Skating in Shimla at the famous Ice Skating Rink near Lakkar Bazar. This is also Asia’s only natural Ice Skating Rink. (Available in Winters only)

5. Roller Skating at Lakkar Bazar –

The Roller skating rink is situated near the Lakkar Bazar Market. It is a great place to spend some time and have fun at the same time.

6. Horse Riding –

Horse Riding is available on The Ridge. However, the more popular place for Horse Riding in Shimla is at Kufri.

7. Paragliding in Shimla-

Earlier Paragliding was a sport in limited areas of Himachal like Manali and Bir Billing. However, now you can enjoy Paragliding in Shimla as well. One of the Paragliding sites in Shimla is in Waknaghat situated on the Chandigarh – Shimla National Highway. You can contact us for any enquiries.

8. Fun Rides at Kufri-

Some of the resorts at Kufri offer small fun rides. These Rides are perfect for a fun family time with children. Zip Lining is also one of the activities available at Kufri.

9. Visit The Kufri Zoo-

The Zoo at Kufri is a nice peaceful place to take nature walks and see some rare wildlife species.

10. Enjoy Snowfall at Kufri-

In winters, Kufri is one of the most popular places in Shimla to enjoy Snow. The view is absolutely magical at Kufri when it is covered in snow.

11. Experience the view from Hatu Peak & Temple –

Hatu Temple is situated at Hatu Peak near Narkanda. Narkanda is at a 2 hours drive from Shimla. Hatu peak is one of the most beautiful places to see near Shimla.

12. Visit the Tanu Jubbar Lake –

The Tannu Jubbar Lake is a small waterbody near the village of Thanedar near Narkanda. It can be reached in around half an hour from Narkanda.

13. Nature Walk at the Carigano Nature Park –

Carignano nature Park is a very beautiful and peaceful place to visit near Shimla. It can be reached by a 1 hour drive from Shimla. Carignano is one of the most recommended places to visit during your trip to Shimla. There is a small entry fee to this park. It has places to sit and relax with your friends & family. Small rides for children and himachali culture themed gardens.

14. Kali Tibba Temple in Chail –

Kali Tibba is a peaceful temple complex situated on the top of a peak near the town of Chail. The whole temple complex is made up of white stone and is a beautiful place to visit. You will need a full day to visit Kali Tibba & Chail and return to Shimla in the evening.

15. Heritage Sites/Buildings –

Shimla has always been a place of historical importance. This is because of the fact as it used to be the Summer capital of the East India Company. There are many heritage sites & buildings that are popular among the tourists coming to Shimla. Some of the popular ones are below:

  • Indian institute of Advanced Studies.
  • The State Museum.
  • The Church situated on the The Ridge. This is also one of the famous landmarks of the city.
  • The Army Heritage Museum in Annadale.

16. Chill at Sadhupul –

Sadhupul is a small water stream near Chail. It is a popular place to visit near Shimla during summer. There are a few food stalls near Sadhupul where one can enjoy Tea, Maggi and other food options.

17. Tara Devi Temple –

Tara Devi temple is situated on the top of a mountain peak. Most of the town can be seen from the Tara Devi temple. There are two ways to reach Tara Devi temple. One is an easy trek from the Tara Devi Bus Stop. Another is by road via Shoghi. This is one of the most revered temples in the town.

18. Visit Tattapani via Naldehra –

Tattapani was once famous for its Hot water Springs. The natural hot water springs at Tattapani were believed to have medicinal properties. After a recent Dam being built on the nearby river, Tattapani has become popular for boat rides as well. On the way to Tattapani,a stop at the famous Naldehra Golf Course is also recommended.

Thank you for reading this article! If you liked this article or if you know of more things to do in Shimla, please do write in the comment box. 

If you are interested in Shimla, then another recommended article for you is “The 6 less Explored Places in Shimla”

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