Shimla, the famous holiday resort that used to enjoy the status of being the summer capital of the British Raj, is now the state capital of Himachal Pradesh. Draped in forests of Oak, pine and the rhododendron, Shimla is situated at the height of 2,130m and is blessed with perennially cool air and superb views.

Like most hill stations, the town sprawls along ridges at many levels, connected by steep lanes. It has now grown into a large, prosperous town.

The Kalka-Shimla train whose path was first sketched in AD 1847, meanders through the mist laden mountainsides, thick pine forests and hills. Lovingly known as the Toy Train, it chugs at a snail’s pace but still offers a memorable experience. The train still remains a huge attraction. It takes 7 to 8 hours to reach Shimla, passing through many tunnels.

HOW TO REACH

BY AIR – For Shimla the nearest airport is at Jubbarhatti, about 23 km away.


BY RAIL – Shimla is connected to Kalka by a narrow gauge railway line with a total length of 96 km. It takes about 7 hours by train from kalka to Shimla.


BY ROAD – Shimla is connected by road to all major towns. It is 370 km from Delhi and takes about 9 hours.

HOW TO MOVE AROUND IN SHIMLA

Local bus service is available between 7 am to 9 pm. The route covers the main bus stand , the lift, Chota Shimla, Kasumpti, Sanjauli, Lakkar Bazar bus stand, Victory Tunnel, Barloeganj and Summer Hill. Taxis are also available for both local travel and sightseeing. Tourist buses run by HPTDC are also a good choice for budget travellers.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to go to Shimla is between the months of April and July, when the whole country is reeling under sweltering heat.