Experience the charm of Shimla, the queen of the hills, with our Shimla Tour Package. This popular and beautiful hill station, once the summer capital during the British era, gained royal importance and recognition. Today, travellers can explore its scenic beauty, pleasant climate, and vibrant culture, making it one of India’s top tourist destinations.

The largest city of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla, is famous for its stunning natural landscapes, pleasant weather, colonial architecture, adventure sports activities, religious and cultural sites, apple fields, Shimla-Kalka toy train ride, Himalayan wildlife and much more. 

For adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, shopaholics, history lovers, romantic couples, peace finders, photography enthusiasts and foodies, Shimla has something to offer to everyone. If a trip to Shimla is on your bucket list, here is a list of the top 10 things to do in Shimla: 

Top 10 things to do in Shimla

For adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, shopaholics, history lovers, romantic couples, peace finders, photography enthusiasts and foodies, Shimla has something to offer to everyone. If a trip to Shimla is on your bucket list, here is a list of the top 10 things to do in Shimla

1.Mall Road

Mall Road, Shimla, is one of the top tourist attractions in Himachal Pradesh, where tourists will witness the striking beauty of the surroundings, the colonial architectural buildings, lush greenery, and majestic mountain views with a touch of fresh air. 

Food & Shopping

  • Individuals can enjoy the best food of Shimla in the cosy cafes and restaurants
  • shop for Himachali handicrafts, woollen clothing, pashmina shawls and Kullu shawls known for their top quality
  • Explore different, unique antique items and premium quality wooden items at the Lakkar Bazaar near Mall Road.

Evening Experience

Mall Road transforms into a magical wonderland at night, and the evening lights reflecting on the Mall Road will leave you in awe of this beautiful place.

Nearby Attractions

  • Scandal Point
  • The Ridge
  • Lakkar Bazaar
  • Christ Church
  • Kali Bari Temple

2.The Ridge

The ridge is the central hub of Shimla city, located in the heart of the city. The Ridge offers easy access to other popular tourist sites like Mall Road, Christ Church and Scandal Point. The ridge looks magical day and night and is an iconic place that falls under the top attractions of Shimla. The breathtaking Himalayan views, colonial architecture and refreshing Oak, Pine, Maple and Rhododendron trees give stunning backdrops for an amazing photography session that will leave you with lasting memories.  

Scenic Charm

  • Looks magical both day and night
  • Iconic place that falls under the top attractions of Shimla
  • Offers breathtaking Himalayan views
  • Colonial architecture adds historic beauty
  • Surrounded by Oak, Pine, Maple, and Rhododendron trees
  • Perfect backdrop for amazing photography sessions and lasting memories

Shopping & Souvenirs

The Ridge also offers a variety of souvenirs to take back home, showcasing the rich culture and heritage of Himachal.

Evening Experience

At night, the beauty of this place increases and captivates your heart and soul. Walk around this mesmerising place and have the best time of your life.

3.Christ Church

The Christ Church is one of the most prominent landmarks of Shimla and is one of the oldest churches in India. It was opened to the general public in 1857 in the Neo-Gothic style of architecture. 

Architectural Beauty

  • Built in Neo-Gothic style
  • Detailed stone and glasswork makes it stand out
  • One of the most iconic attractions of Shimla

Experience

  • Spiritual ambience
  • Peaceful atmosphere
  • Adds charm and uniqueness to Shimla’s beauty

4.Jhakoo Temple, Shimla

The Jhakoo Temple is situated at an altitude of 2,455 meters (8,054 feet), which is the highest point in Shimla. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, and it is believed that lord hanuman rested here while bringing Sanjeevani for Lakshmana in the Hindu epic of Ramayana. The lord Hanuman idol is 108 feet tall, which can be visible from Shimla’s Mall Road too. 

Highlights

  • 108-feet tall Lord Hanuman idol visible from Mall Road
  • Surrounded by lush greenery, hills, and mountains
  • Offers spectacular views of Shimla city

How to Reach

  • Trek: Around 2.5 km long, takes 50 minutes to 1 hour
  • Ropeway: 5–10 minute ride to reach the temple

Experience

  • Feel the spiritual vibes
  • Seek blessings of Lord Hanuman
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Shimla from the top

5.Shimla State Museum

Another famous tourist place in Shimla is the Shimla State Museum, also popularly known as the Himachal State Museum. The museum was built in 1974 and is famous for preserving and showcasing the rich Himachali culture and heritage.

Galleries to Explore

  • Sculpture gallery
  • Wall painting gallery
  • Archaeology gallery
  • Numismatic gallery (coins, currency, monetary objects)
  • Himachal gallery
  • Army gallery
  • Wooden art gallery
  • Jewellery gallery
  • Temple gallery

Experience

Explore the Shimla State Museum to gain deep knowledge about Himachal and its traditions and appreciate the artistic craftsmanship.

6.Viceregal Lodge/ Rashtrapati Niwas

The Viceregal Lodge, also known as Rashtrapati Niwas, is an ancient building in Shimla, completed in 1888 after eight years of construction. It reflects the architectural style of the British era and was once an important venue for political meetings and discussions.

Highlights

  • Surrounded by beautiful gardens filled with colourful flowers
  • Tall trees like Deodar, Pine, Cedar, Oak, and Maple enhance its charm
  • A historic site that feels like stepping back into the British era

Experience
 It’s a great place to explore with family and friends while enjoying the colonial charm.

7.Shimla to Kalka toy train ride.

The Shimla to Kalka toy train ride is a globally recognised destination in India and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The toy train ride from Shimla to Kalka is a journey of around 96 kilometres, which takes roughly 5-6 hours to complete, with a total of 18 stations in between. 

Experience

  • One of the most scenic and beautiful train journeys in India
  • Passes through the Himalayan hills, forests, and valleys
  • A memorable ride to experience nature up close from a moving train

8.Tea Gardens

Chalal Tea Gardens are one of the best tea gardens to explore on the outskirts of Shimla.

Things to Do

  • Enjoy nature walks amidst lush greenery
  • Learn about traditional and modern tea production methods
  • Visit local tea houses to taste herbal teas and varieties

Nearby Highlight

  • Kangra Valley Tea Estates (Palampur): Famous for organic tea tasting, offering insights into flavours, appearances, and textures.

Experience

Soak in the natural beauty of tea gardens in Shimla and nearby areas while enjoying fresh flavours.

Kufri: Winter Sports Activities

Kufri, a famous hill station near Shimla, is well known for its winter sports activities like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, tobogganing, snowshoeing and more. Kufri is also a popular snowfall winter destination,  a heavenly paradise for winter enthusiasts and snow lovers. 

Winter Sports to Try

  • Skiing
  • Snowboarding
  • Ice Skating
  • Tobogganing
  • Snowshoeing

Other Adventure Activities

  • Zorbing
  • Horse Riding
  • Go-Karting
  • Mountain Biking
  • Kufri Fun World for added fun

Family & Kids’ Activities

  • Mini Zoo
  • Toy Train
  • Bungee Trampoline
  • Children’s Amusement Rides

10.Chadwick Falls

Chadwick Falls is among the best tourist destinations near Shimla, around 5 kilometres away. This place offers mesmerising natural beauty for nature lovers, adventure-like trekking for adventure enthusiasts, spiritual vibe for spiritual seekers. 

Experience

  • Offers mesmerising natural beauty for nature lovers
  • Trekking options for adventure enthusiasts
  • A spiritual vibe for seekers of peace and calm

Why Visit

  • Perfect for travellers who dislike crowded destinations
  • Less crowded and peaceful surroundings
  • Enjoy the soothing natural sound of falling water
  • Stunning backdrops ideal for photography

Conclusion

Shimla truly lives up to its title as the Queen of the Hills. From colonial charm and scenic landscapes to thrilling adventures and peaceful getaways, the city has something for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re strolling along Mall Road, seeking blessings at Jakhoo Temple, riding the toy train through the mountains, or chasing snow in Kufri, every experience leaves a lasting memory. Plan your trip with these top 10 things to do in Shimla and you’ll discover why it remains one of India’s most loved hill stations.