The Pride Of Himachal Pradesh :
Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh and former summer capital of
British India, is the state's most important centre. It is named after its
patron goddess, Shamla Devi, a manifestation of Kali. Shimla located at an
altitude of 7,267 feet, is inhabited around a crescent - shaped ridge, which
is blessed with perennially cool air. It provides superb panoramic sights of
the valleys, and the lofty peaks of the great
Himalayan range, on
both sides. To the north, the awesome snow ranges race across the horizon.
The cool breeze wafts across the country side, flows through the oak and
rhododendron forests. Shimla's salubrious climate, easy accessibility and
numerous attractions have made it one of the most popular
hill stations in northern India.
Places of Interest:
» The Mall: A busy shopping area with old colonial
buildings, souvenir shops and restaurants. Narrow cobble-stoned paths
wind down to the middle and lower bazaars where tribals from the hills
around gather to sell their quaint and colorful artifacts. At the top
end of the Mall is the Scandal Point, a large open square with a view of
the town - a favourite rendezvous for visitors and the local people.
» Chadwick Falls (8 km): At 2149 m this beautiful suburb is
surrounded by thick forest. From here, a track leads down to Sipur which
is an exquisite glade shaded by ancient deodar trees.
» Other places: Prospects Hill, Sankat Mochan, Tara Devi,
Windflower Hall, Viceregal Lodge and the State Museum are the other
attractions.
Shoppers guide:
Shimla is place where one can get good woodcarvings and shawls. The
Tibetan Refugee shop, located between the lift and Oberoi Clarke, is
worth a visit. It also has weaving bags and clothes and good selection
of earrings and other jewellery.
Climate:
Summers: Temperatures varies between 30 degree Celsius.
Winters: Temperatures varies between sub-zero degree Celsius.
Travel Connectivity:
» Airway: Shimla has an airport, 22 km away, from the main
city with regular flights to Delhi. Chandigarh airport, 120 km away on
the plains, has flights at more regular intervals. The flights to Shimla
may be called off, during the winter months of December, January and
February, so you will need to check them up in advance.
» Railway: Broad-gauge trains run till Kalka, from all the
parts of the country. From Kalka onwards, a rail car on narrow gauge
takes you to Shimla which offers some fantastic sights. You can also
take a bus from Kalka to Shimla.
» Roadway: Shimla is connected by road to Chandigarh,
Delhi, Dehradun, Kalka, and to many other places as well.
