Shimla, the summer capital of the British India and now the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the finest hill stations of the world. Situated at an altitude of 2,196m in the lower Himalayan Range, the exotic Shimla is known for its exceptional natural beauty and charm. Located amidst the lush green forests of pine, cedar, oak and rhododendron trees and milky snow clad peaks with refreshing cool breeze blowing round the year, the beautiful hill town makes a spell bound effect on her visitors.

Shimla was discovered by the British in 1819 as a small village and beautifully developed into the summer capital of India in 1864. Since independence Shimla has seen an unprecedented expansion, yet it retains her colonial heritage in the form of grand old buildings. Noted among them are the stately Viceregal Lodge, charming iron lamp posts, Gaiety Theatre and Anglo-Saxon names. In addition, the British developed a longest shopping center on a 5 km long stretch of the road - the Mall- the town's commercial street and the hub of its social life.

Major Attractions
Ridge: The ridge offers a breathtaking view of lush green valleys and snow-clad peaks to its visitors. It is an ideal spot for basking in the lazy sun or strolling or enjoying a plate-full of delicious chatt.

Annandale: Known as the playground of Shimla, Annandale is located at an altitude of 1864 m, 2-km below the Ridge. It is being developed as the main playground of the capital for cricket, picnics and princely game of polo.

Chadwick Falls: Located at an altitude of1586m, 7 km west of the ridge is the silent Chadwick falls. The 67 m high falls were once quite spectacular.

Christ Church (St. Michael's Cathedral): Situated on the ridge, Christ Church is regarded as the second oldest church in northern India. The yellow structure is the most prominent feature of the Mall. A stained-glass masterpiece, it depicts hope, faith, patience and humility. The silhouette of the church is visible on the skyline for miles around.

Institute of Advanced Studies: Set amidst beautiful gardens and lawns, the magnificent grey-stone edifice was originally built as the Viceregal Lodge in 1888. The building now is used for academic purpose naming it 'Institute of Advanced Studies'. The grounds are open for visitors only on Sundays.

Tara Devi Temple: Situated atop a hill at an altitude of 6070 ft., Tara Devi temple is dedicated to the goddess of stars. Built amidst the picturesque surroundings of lush green forests, the temple offers a calm and tranquil ambience to visitors.

Other Major attractions at Shimla include Mahatma Gandhi's Retreat, Jakhu Temple, Lakkar Bazaar, The Glenn, Prospect Hills, Gurkha Castles, Churdhar Sanctuary, Karyali Lake, Kotesvara Temple, Padam Palace, War Memorial, Daranghati Sanctuary, Himalayan Aviary, Sankat Mochan-'Lord Hanuman' temple, Shimla State Museum and many more.

Besides, Shimla is a paradise for adventure seekers and offers variety of recreations like trekking, skiing, golfing, fishing, jeep safari and many more.

Excursions from Shimla
Naldhera: Located at 22 Km from Shimla, Naldhera is a paradise for recreational activities. There is a Golf Course, heavenly trekking routes and pretty picnic spots offering an unforgettable destination for adventure seekers.

Chail: Located at 45 km from Shimla, Chail houses the highest cricket pitch and the highest polo ground in the world.

Fagu: Located at about 22 km from Shimla, Fagu offers pleasant views of the distant Himalayas along with some fun treks.

Kufri: Located at 12 Km from Shimla, Kufri is famous for its numerous picnic and look-out points. The slopes here are a hot favorite with snow seekers.

Tattapani: Located at 51 Km from Shimla, Tattapani is well known for many hot springs it houses.

Sarol: Situated at 23 km from Shimla, Sarol is famous for its 9-hole golf course. During the monsoons, several golf tournaments are also held over here.

How to Reach
By Air: Airport at 23 km from the city. Shimla is well connected by daily flights from Delhi and Kullu.

By Rail: Shimla is connected to Kalka (95 Km) by Narrow gauge railway line. Broad gauge Railway line upto Kalka connecting Delhi, Calcutta and Amritsar.

By Road: The city is well connected with Kalka, Chandigarh, Delhi, Amritsar and Jammu etc.