Making the most out of your Shimla trip this summer!

Mesmerizing landscapes, pleasant climate, and warm hospitality await you in Shimla. It is a destination for all kinds of travelers – solo adventurers, nature lovers, thrill-seekers, or families, especially in summer when you can enjoy the cold weather! There are so many things you can do on your Shimla trip to make it even more fun, enjoyable, and memorable. Here are some activities you can add to your itinerary if they aren’t already on it.

1. The toy train ride

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Visiting Shimla and not experiencing the famous toy train ride? Almost impossible! The Kalka-Shimla toy train takes you through old-school charm with the most stunning landscapes, quaint stations, and deodar & oak forests. It offers an excellent view of the surrounding hills and villages as it glides through the curves of the track. The whole experience becomes 10X more beautiful if it starts to drizzle. The duration of the entire journey is 6 hours, and believe us when we say that every second is worth it.

2. Stroll across the Mall Road

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How can one forget about the Mall Road when it comes to a trip to Shimla? Not only is it a commercial hub, but also a recreational spot in the town where you can find some of the best things to shop for. If you happen to tire of going from shop to shop (which is highly unlikely), you can visit nearby attractions like the Town Hall, Gaiety Theater, and Scandal Point.

3. Chadwick Falls

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A relaxing walk through the thick canopy of the forest will take you straight to Chadwick Falls. The mesmerizing waterfall surrounded by lush green pines only adds to the existing beauty of the place. The stream of water trickling down from a height of 100 m accompanied by the cool breeze will make you want to stay there. A perfect picnic spot where you can unwind.

4. Camp under the twilight

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Camping under the open sky filled with twinkling stars is one of those things that will etch the Shimla trip on your mind for a very long time. It is one of the best things to do, particularly for couples and youngsters. You can pick from a range of camping spots – forests, valleys close to a stream, high-altitude spots, or low-lying areas. You can also enjoy campfires during such expeditions.

5. Skiing in Kufri

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Equally beautiful during summer and winter, Kufri during the winter months is a sight to see and in summer months, an experience to relish. The panoramic views of the hills will leave you spell-bounded and hypnotized. Covered with a sheet of snow, it is every skier’s dream during winter. And while you are at Kufri, remember to visit Green Valley, which has been featured in many Bollywood films. It might have also appeared in one of your favorite movies.

Also Read: Into the Mountains: Discover these offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh

6. The Shimla Ridge

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The ridge is one of the spots where all the travellers and locals come together for various activities. After all, it is the social hub of the city with its shops, cafés, bars, restaurants, and boutiques. Doesn’t matter if you just want a cup of coffee or a glass of beer at the end of the day, The Ridge has to be the perfect stop. Giving breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains, it is a favorite spot for nature lovers and nature photographers.

7. Trek to Jhaku Hill and Temple

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Jakhu Hill, with an elevation of 2455 m above sea level, is the highest hill in Shimla. With a backdrop of green alpine forest and Shivalik hills, the trek is breathtaking – literally as well as figuratively. Atop the hill lies the Hanuman Temple with a giant Hanuman statue (108 ft. tall). The fresh air and the tranquillity of this place just hit differently.

8. Indian Institute of Advanced Studies

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One of the best places to visit during your Shimla trip is the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies. You will be in awe of the grand Scottish-style architecture and the vast soothing lawns around the institute. The colonial building is where you can get some gram-worthy picture shots.

9. The Orchards of Shimla

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An apple a day keeps the doctor away. Think about what an orchard of apples will do! If you love apples, a visit to the apple orchards of Shimla is a must. The sweet aroma from these scarlet-painted orchards will fill your heart and soul. While strolling through the orchards, while getting to know about apple production, you can grab one or two straight from the trees and have a bite. The mighty Himalayas multiplies the scenic beauty.

10. Shop till you drop at the Lakkar Bazaar

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For shopaholic travellers, one of the best shopping spots in Shimla – the Lakkar Bazaar is a sweet haven. Particularly known for the carved wooden products and toys, this street bazaar is where travellers head when looking for Shimla souvenirs. Apart from the wood products, you can shop for woollens, Pashmina shawls, Kullu shawls, and handicrafts. The market has a lively vibe – especially in the evenings, with shoppers from across the country.

Start your itinerary for the Shimla trip from this list. While it doesn’t cover everything, it is a good start to experiencing the diversity.

Also Read: Get your adrenaline kick in! Try these winter sports in India this season!