A quaint little hill train chugs up into the Shivalik
foothills, over dramatic loops and high arched bridges to the hill resort of Shimla
(2130m) - the capital of the mountain state of Himachal.
Shimla was on a string of hill stations that the British
established to escape from the scorching, heat of the plains. The 12 km,
crescent-shaped ridge on which it is located was first occupied by the British
troops, in the early part of the 19th century, during the
Anglo-gurkha War. The little village of Shymala, a retreat for British
officers, soon grew to become the glamorous summer capital of the British, in
India.
Shimla’s Salubrious climate, easy accessibility and numerous
attractions have made it one of the most popular hill stations in northern India.
The splendid views of the snow- clad ranges of the Himalayas, fine walks
through oak and flowering rhododendron, enchanting resorts within easy reach,
golf at Naldehra and sking at Kufri and Narkanda make Shimla an attractive destination
throughout the year.
Places
of interest in Shimla
The
mall: All visitors to Shimla inevitably walk down the Mall, the main
promenade that runs along the top of the ridge-a busy shopping area with old
colonial buildings, souvenir shops and restaurants, At the top end of the Mall
is Scandal Point, a large open square with a view of the town-a favorite
rendezbous for visitor and the local people. Overlooking it is the elegant
Christ Church with its fine stained glass windows. The labyrinth of shimla’s
bazaars spill over the edge of the Mall.
Viceregal
Lodge Housed in the gothic splendor of the viceregal Lodge is the Indian institute
of Advanced Studies; India’s premier academy for higher research
Himachal
State Museum: Very close to the institute,
in a colonial building set in spacious lawns, is the museum, it has collections
of Pahari miniatures, stone sculpture, local handicrafts textiles and
embroidery.
Jakhoo
hill (2438 M) the steep climb to Jakhoo Hill, shimla’s highest point, is
rewarding for there are superb views of the town and its surroundings. At the
top is an old Hanuman temple(2km)
Annandale(1864
m) the open grounds at Annandale,
below the ridge, was a favourite location in the days of the rji the venue of
picnics, cricket and polo matches and gymkhana races,
The glen
(1830 m) A pretty picnic spot beyond Annandale is located in the thickly
wooden glen, beside a sparkling stream.(4km)
Summer
hill (1982 m) the quiet and lovely suburb of Summer Hill has secluded,
shady walks and charming views. It was here that Gandhiji stayed on his visits
to Shimla, in the elegant Georgian mansion that belonged to Rajumari Amrit
Kaur. Summer Hiss is located on the Shimla-Kalka railway line (5km)
Chadwick
falls (1586 m) A 15 minute climb form boileauganj. Prospect Hill is another
favorite walk and vantage point with breath taking view. There is a little
temple to Kanna Devi on the top of the hill (5KM)
Sanjauli
(2257 m) A serene location with delightful walks, Sanjauli is ideal for a
tranquil weekend. There are fine vistas and the lights of Shimla and Chail can
be seen twinkling at night.
On the other side, Mashobra and Naldhra are
visible.
Temples:
Among the little temples dotted around Shimla is the ancient temple of
Bihargaon- a splendid example of traditional Himachal architecture. Just short
of Shimla are the temples of Tara Devi and Sankat Mochan. (8km)
Around Shimla
Mashobra
(2149)
Noted for its apple orchards and thick
woods of oak and pine, Mashobra is a sylvan retreat with pretty walks and
picnic spots. A little track leads down to sipur a grassy glade with a stream
wandering through it, Eccursions are possible to Shali Peak the highest point
in the area or to Craignano (3km) with its elegant guest house set in a
delightful flower filled garden. 9.6KM
Kufri(2622):
Kufri is a noted summer and winter
resort with its glorious views of forested slops and tall ranges leed in a
covering of perpetual snow. A tine ski resort, Kufri has 3 winter season that
extends from January to March. A sparkling winter sports festival is held each
year in February.
Fagu
(2509 m) Just 6 km form Kufri, Fagu
is a vantage point with panoramic views of the ranges and valleys. Picturrpuely
located amid forests and orchards, fagu has a rest house and tourist bungalow
overlooking the Giri Valley.
Naldehra:
The scenic, nine hole golf course
with its springy turf and crown of deodar was laid out at the instance of the
Viceroy, Lord Curzon. So enamoured was the by the beauty of the spot, that he
named his youngest haughtier Alexandra Naldehra. (23).
Tattapani:
Tattapani is just 28 km from Naldehra, along a road winding through the scenic
countraside, The hot sulphur springs here, are noted for their invigorating and
curative powers.(51)
Narkanda
(2708) A hill road with superb views links Narkanda with Shimla. Narkanda,
located amidst fragrant pine forests is a ski resort in winter. It has a choice
of slopes ranging from a beginners run and a slalom slope, to sharper descents
for the experienced skier.(64km )
