Things to do in Shimla
Things to do in Shimla
Shimla, the former summer capital of British India and now the capital of Himachal Pradesh, enchants visitors with its Victorian-era architecture, crisp mountain air, and sweeping Himalayan vistas. The iconic Ridge and Mall Road at the heart of the town bustle with activity year-round, while the UNESCO-listed Kalka-Shimla toy train journey is a scenic marvel in itself. From adventure activities like skiing and trekking to exploring colonial-era buildings and temples, Shimla is one of India's most beloved hill station destinations.
Leisure / CulturalView full guide1–2 hours
Mall Road Walk
Wander the 1.7 km pedestrianised promenade of Shimla that was the nerve centre of British India's summer capital. Lined with colonial buildings, boutiques, cafes, and spectacular views of pine-covered ridges, it connects Scandal Point to the Victory Tunnel.
Adventure / RecreationView full guide1–2 hours
Ice Skating
Skate at Asia's only natural open-air ice skating rink at Shimla's Ice Skating Club (established 1920). The rink operates annually from late December to February, offering skating lessons, rentals, and an exhilarating mountain-air skating experience.
Heritage / SightseeingView full guide5–6 hours (one way from Kalka)
Heritage Train Ride
Board the iconic Kalka–Shimla Railway — a UNESCO World Heritage narrow-gauge line built in 1903. The 96 km journey through 102 tunnels, 864 bridges, and 919 curves across breathtaking Himalayan scenery is a bucket-list rail experience.
Spiritual / TrekkingView full guide1.5–2.5 hours (round trip)
Jakhu Temple Trek
Hike 2 km up Jakhu Hill (2,455 m) — Shimla's highest peak — to reach the ancient Hanuman temple considered one of the most sacred in the region. The forested trail is inhabited by hundreds of monkeys and rewards trekkers with 360° panoramic views of Shimla and the Himalayan ranges.
Shopping / CulturalView full guide2–3 hours
Shopping
Shop for Himachal Pradesh's finest crafts on Mall Road and Lakkar Bazaar — wooden handicrafts, Kullu shawls, Himachali caps (topis), silver jewellery, homemade jams, and local apple products. The Tibetan Market near the bus stand offers good deals on woolens.
Sightseeing / LeisureView full guideFull day
Scenic Drives
Drive through the apple orchard villages of Mashobra, Naldehra (home to Asia's oldest golf course), and Chail (site of the world's highest cricket ground at 2,444 m) — each offering a different flavour of Himachal's forested highlands and mountain scenery.