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SHIMLA
Shimla, the summer capital of British India is located towards the southern parts of the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. While it still reverberates with the British influence, its well developed amenities, easy accessibility and many attractions make it one of India's most popular resorts. In the Himalayan lower ranges, it is surrounded by pine, cedar, oak and rhododendron forests.
History
The British discovered Shimla in the form of a little village in 1819. Thus far, it was a part of the Nepalese kingdom. It was during Lord William Bentinck's times that Shimla was in fact acquired by the Government of India. The British convinced the local Raja to part with the land in 1830, and the settlement became the subcontinent's most fashionable summer resort. In 1864, Shimla was declared the summer capital of India. After the independence of India, Shimla came to be the capital of Punjab until 1966, when it came under Himachal Pradesh.
Places of Interest
Ridge
The Ridge is one place in Shimla where spending at least a couple of hours in a day is a must, basking in the lazy sun. You wouldn’t be alone as the Ridge is unendingly swarming with the young and the old, out for a refreshing stroll, a plate-full of delicious chaat or for a few shutterbug clicks against the distant peaks.
Lakkad Bazaar
Find this world of wooden marvels right below the ridge. Lakkad Bazaar offers anything and everything you can ever imagine carved out of wood. From key chains, walking sticks, massagers, toys and jewellery boxes to sailor's wheels and stationary holders, name it and you have it available.
St Michael’s
St Michael's Cathedral is a stained-glass masterpiece. Once judged as the finest cathedral in India, it depicts Hope, Faith, Patience and Humility.
Institute of Advanced Studies
Built in 1888, the institute was originally the Viceregal Lodge. It's a magnificent English Renaissance grey-stone structure set amidst beautiful gardens and lawns. Entry is by ticket only. The grounds are open for guests only on Sundays.
Tara Devi Temple
Situated atop a hill, the Tara Devi temple leaves visitors breathless at the panoramic views. Built amidst oak and rhododendrons, it is reachable by road, rail and by foot.
General Information
Altitude: 2,196 meters above sea level
Climate: Max of 28°C and a minimum of 15°C in summers. Max of 8°C and a low of 0°C or even lower in winters.
Best Time to Visit: May–July and September–November
Travel Information
By Air : Shimla Airport is 23 kms from the city connected by daily flights from Delhi and Kullu.
By Rail: Broad-gauge Railway line up to Kalka connecting Delhi, Calcutta and Amritsar. Kalka to Shimla (95 kms.) by Narrow gauge railway.
By Road: Well connected with Kalka. Chandigarh, Delhi, Amritsar and Jammu etc.