Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India
Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is India's most iconic hill station. Set at 2,200 m in the lower Himalayas, its colonial architecture, oak forests, and the famous Kalka-Shimla toy train make it one of north India's most beloved weekend escapes.
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Things to do
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The Ridge & Mall Road
heritage
Jakhu Hill & Temple
spiritual
Kalka-Shimla Toy Train
heritage
Kufri
adventure
Chail Palace & Cricket Ground
heritage
Green Valley
nature
Places to stay
See allZostel Shimla
from ₹1,500/night
Wildflower Hall
from ₹4,500/night
Wildflower Hall (Oberoi)
from ₹12,000/night
Restaurants & dining
See allItineraries to help you plan
Crafted by Itinera AI based on popular traveller routes. Create yours
A history-packed Shimla trip
Explore the iconic landmarks and rich cultural heritage of Shimla. From ancient temples to colonial architecture, this itinerary covers the must-see historical sites and hidden gems of the city.
The Ridge & Mall Road
(11,722)
Jakhu Hill & Temple
(3,477)
Kalka-Shimla Toy Train
(4,725)
Shimla with kids — the perfect family trip
A family-friendly adventure in Shimla packed with activities for all ages. Nature walks, local markets, and experiences the whole family will love and remember.
Kufri
(2,061)
Chail Palace & Cricket Ground
(8,717)
Green Valley
(3,850)
Romantic getaway in Shimla
A curated couples escape in Shimla — sunset views, signature cuisine, and intimate cultural experiences. Perfect for anniversaries and honeymoons.
The Ridge & Mall Road
(11,722)
Jakhu Hill & Temple
(3,477)
Kalka-Shimla Toy Train
(4,725)
Featured guide
Go deeper into Shimla
Insider knowledge
Travel tips for Shimla
The toy train from Kalka books up fast on weekends — reserve the Shivalik Express or Himalayan Queen in advance on IRCTC.
Monkeys on Jakhu Hill are bold — keep bags closed and avoid showing food.
Snow falls December–February — carry warm layers and check road status before driving to Kufri or Narkanda.
Shimla is pedestrian-heavy; parking is limited. Use the Lift near Chotta Shimla to reach Mall Road.
Try siddu (local stuffed bread) and apple cider — both are Himachali originals.
Getting there
How to reach Shimla
By Air
Shimla Airport has limited connectivity. Better to fly to Chandigarh (120 km) and take a taxi or bus (~3.5 hrs).
By Train
Kalka is the nearest main railway station (94 km). From Kalka, take the famous toy train to Shimla (5 hrs, UNESCO Heritage) or a taxi (2.5 hrs).
By Road
Shimla is 360 km from Delhi via NH-44 (~7–8 hrs). Chandigarh to Shimla via NH-5 is 118 km (~3 hrs). Volvo buses run from Delhi ISBT.
