See:
Mall Road: The town’s lifeline, the Mall Road is the main street in Shimla. It’s the centre of all activity. Over time, colonial buildings have been overrun by kitschy boutiques and buildings. Cafes, restaurants and social hangouts on Mall Road are especially popular with locals and tourists alike.
Viceregal Lodge: Shimla’s Viceregal Lodge was designed by British architect Henry Irwin and served as the residence of the British Viceroy of India. A fine display of Jacobethan architecture complete with Tudor-style arches and carved brick detailing on pillars, parapets and porches, Viceregal Lodge dates back to 1888. Historically, within the walls of Viceregal Lodge was where the Shimla Agreement was sealed. Today, a guided tour of the stately interiors reveals rooms with a collection of photographs, books and artefacts.
Rothney Castle: Often overlooked on the sightseeing trail, Rothney Castle was the home of Alllan Octavian Hume, the British civil servant who founded the Congress in 1885. Though in much need of restoration, this now privately held property on Jakko Hill still has reflections of its glorious past in the intricate wood and glass work that can be seen here.
Christ Church: The second oldest church in India dating back to 1857, Christ Church is a prominent landmark in Shimla. Situated on the Ridge, it’s a fine display of neo-Gothic architecture. With stained glass windows, a pipe organ, a clock tower and a rich collection of old scriptures, Christ Church stands out for its grandeur. A spectacular sight to behold is Christ Church illuminated at night!
Scandal Point: As the name suggests, Scandal Point was where the then Maharaja of Patiala had eloped with the daughter of the British Viceroy. Needless to say, a scandal of the highest order for its times, the couple was banished from Shimla as a result. The General Post Office stands nearby Scandal Point where the Mall road joins Ridge road on the west side.
Do:
Stroll on the Ridge: The Ridge is an area in Shimla between Observatory and Jhakoo hills. The heart of soul of Shimla town, the Ridge is the hub of activity with tourists coming to see several colonial style buildings including a church and library and statues of Mahatma Gandhi. The Ridge is also where Shimla’s fairs, festivals and functions are held.
Hike up Jhakoo Hill: Well worth the 30 minutes and a few mischievous monkeys en route, a hike up Jhakoo Hill takes you on a trail through lush forest terrain. At an altitude of 2,455 metres, the climb ends at a plateau where the Jhakoo Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman stands. From atop, feast your eyes on splendid views of the Shivalik mountain range.
Catch a Performance at Gaiety Theatre: Gaiety Theatre first opened its doors in 1887. It was a platform for dramatic arts with performances and plays taking centre stage. The Victorian façade has been restored and preserved over the years and the grandiose of the interiors have often been compared to great theatres like London’s Albert Hall. The Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex continues to host events and shows even today.
Ride the Kalka-Shimla Mountain Railway: Take a ride through the mountains from Kalka to Shimla on a toy train. The 96 kilometre route is most famous for the scenic vistas that accompany you through the journey that takes you over 864 bridges and 102 tunnels, including the longest one at Barog.
