Must visit places in Shimla Himachal Pradesh India

 Jakhu Temple

The Jakhu Temple, also known as Jakhoo  Temple, is an ancient Hindu temple located in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India. Here are some interesting facts about it:

Dedication:

• The temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Hanuman.

Location: 

• It sits atop Jakhu Hill, which is Shimla’s highest peak, at an impressive altitude of 2,455 meters (8,054 feet) above sea level.

Festival:

• Every year, a festival is celebrated here during Dussehra.

Tallest Hanuman Statue:

• The temple houses a giant 108-feet-high idol of Hanuman, making it one of the tallest Hanuman statues in the world. This statue was unveiled on 4th November 2010 and surpasses the famous Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Access:

• You can reach the temple by foot, horse, taxi, or via the Jakhu Ropeway, an aerial lift that connects a point near the center of Shimla to the temple.

Christ Church

 

Christ Church in Shimla is a remarkable landmark that reflects the colonial past of the region. Here are some interesting information about it:

History:

Constructed in 1857, Christ Church is the second oldest church in North India, following St. John’s Church in Meerut. It was built during the British era when Simla (now Shimla) served as a health resort for European visitors. The church stands as an enduring legacy of the British Raj.

Architecture:

Designed in the Neo-Gothic style, Christ Church graces The Ridge in Shimla. Its silhouette is visible from several kilometers around the city. Colonel J. T. Boileau was the architect behind this beautiful structure, and the cornerstone was laid in 1844. The church was consecrated in 1857, and its estimated construction cost was 40,000 to 50,000 Rupees. Notably, the clock adorning Christ Church was donated in 1860, and the porch was added in 18731.

Preservation:

Despite the 20th-century partition and subsequent political changes, Christ Church remains well-maintained and is in relatively good condition. The original mechanical clock mechanism has been replaced with an electrical one. Interestingly, Guy Gibson, leader of the famous “Dambusters Raid” during World War II, was christened here.

The Ridge

The Ridge in Shimla is a wide open space located in the heart of the city. Here are some key details:

Location:

The Ridge runs along Mall Road, which is the main street of Shimla. It’s a large open area that serves as the hub for cultural activities in the city.

Scenic Views:

From The Ridge, you can enjoy stunning views of the Himalayan ranges and the city below. It’s a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

Landmarks:

Notable landmarks on The Ridge include Christ Church, a beautiful neo-Gothic structure built in 1844, and a Tudorbethan-styled library building constructed in 

Festivals and Events:

The Ridge hosts various government functions, fairs, concerts, and parades throughout the year. The Summer Festival held here during April or May is particularly famous.

Lakker Bazzar

Lakkar Bazar in Shimla, India, is a delightful marketplace adjoining The Ridge. Here’s what you can expect:

Wooden Crafts: 

• The market is famous for its wooden toys crafted by a small group of Sikh carpenters who settled there a century ago from Hoshiarpur.

•  You’ll find beautifully crafted walking sticks, keychains, spoons, pots, and candle stands.

Shopping Paradise:

• Lakkar Bazar offers an array of items, including woollen garments, Pashmina shawls, Himachali handicrafts, and artificial jewellery. It’s a go-to place for shopaholics.

Local Flair:

• Although the roads are narrow and sometimes crowded with tourists, there’s something magical about this street.

• Don’t miss the traditional food at the eateries, serving lip-smacking momos and delicious chaat.

Kali Bari Temple

 

The Kali Bari Temple in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. Let me share some interesting facts about it:

History:

• Originally built in 1823 by a Bengali Brahmin named Ram Charan Brahamchari, the temple was situated near Rothney Castle on Jakhoo Hill.

•  Its architecture resembles the Dakshineswar Kali Temple in Kolkata. Later, the British relocated the temple to Bantony Hill.

Unique Features:

• The Kali Bari Temple boasts a distinctive Hindu-style design and houses a blue-colored wooden idol of Goddess Kali. It’s one of the ancient temples in Shimla and has been a pilgrimage center for devotees since its establishment.

Location: 

• You’ll find the temple on Bantony Hill, right in the heart of Shimla. From there, you can enjoy scenic views of the city and surrounding nature. 

• Tourists and devotees frequently visit this sacred site.

• If you’re ever in Shimla, consider visiting the Kali Bari Temple to experience its spiritual ambiance and architectural beauty!

Mall Road

 

Road in Shimla is the bustling main street where locals and tourists alike gather for shopping, dining, and leisure. Here are some highlights:

Scandal Point: 

 

• This spot marks the junction of Mall Road and Ridge Road.

•  Legend has it that a British lady eloped with an Indian Maharaja, leading to the point’s intriguing name. 

• Today, you’ll find a statue of Indian freedom fighter Lala Lajpat Rai here. 

Gaiety Theatre:

 

• Opened in 1887, the Gaiety Theatre has hosted popular film personalities and remains a hub for performing arts. 

• It recently underwent renovation while preserving its heritage.

Town Hall:

 

• The municipal centre, constructed in 1908, adds to the colonial-era charm of Mall Road. Its grand steps are a popular backdrop for photos.

Kufri  

Kufri is a charming hill station located 20 km from Shimla in Himachal Pradesh, India. Here are some of the top attractions in Kufri:

Skiing: 

 

• Kufri is known as the winter sports capital of Shimla. 

• It offers thrilling skiing experiences on its snowy slopes, attracting skiers from all around.

Mahasu Peak:

• This peak, one of the highest points in Kufri, provides stunning views of the Kedarnath and Badrinath ranges. 

• You can hike or hire a mule or horse to reach the top. There’s also a Nag Temple with a serene viewpoint nearby.

Kufri Zoo (Himalayan Nature Park):

 

• Situated at an altitude of 2,350 to 2,730 meters above sea level, Kufri Zoo is dedicated to wildlife conservation. 

• It houses animals like Sambar, Barking deer, Musk deer, and Black Bear in spacious enclosures.

Kufri Fun World: 

 

• This amusement park offers a variety of thrilling adventures, including zip-lining, sky swinging, bungee ejection, mirror mazes, and haunted houses.

•  You can also enjoy snow skiing and go-karting here.

Narkanda

Narkanda, located in Himachal Pradesh, India, is a charming town nestled at an altitude of 2708 meters on the Hindustan Tibet road. Here are some highlights of Narkanda:

Skiing: 

 

• Narkanda is famous for skiing and winter sports. 

• Its slopes, perched at an altitude of 8100 ft, cater to both beginners and experienced skiers, offering undulating beauty and stunning snow ranges.

Hatu Peak: 

 

• Just 4 km from the city center, Hatu Peak stands at nearly 12,000 feet above sea level. 

• Surrounded by majestic mountains and covered in dense green cedar and fir forests, it’s a paradise on earth. 

• You can even trek to Hatu Peak or camp there for an unforgettable experience1.

Hatu Mata Temple: 

 

• Situated at 3352 meters above sea level, this temple is a must-visit.

•  Its unique architecture sets it apart from other Hindu temples, and the views from here are breathtaking.

Stokes Farm:

 

• Located 16 km from Narkanda, Stokes Farm is famed for its spectacular apple orchards. 

• It’s Shimla’s oldest apple orchard, established by Mr. Satyanand Stokes, an American who migrated to India.

•  The farm offers a glimpse into the region’s apple cultivation history.

Chail

 

Chail is a picturesque hill station located in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Situated at an altitude of 2,250 meters (7,380 feet), it offers salubrious beauty and virgin forests. Here are some interesting facts about Chail:

Chail Palace: 

• The Chail Palace, built during the British Raj, served as a summer retreat for the Maharaja of Patiala. 

• Its architecture is noteworthy, and the palace is set amidst beautiful surroundings.

Cricket Ground:

 

• Chail boasts the world’s highest cricket ground, situated at an altitude of 2,444 meters. 

• It’s a unique spot for sports enthusiasts.

Hiking and Trekking:

Hikers frequent Chail for its wonderful views of the lower Himalayas. There are good trekking points from Junga, Kufri, and Ashwani Khad in Solan.

Eco Camps: 

 

• Many eco camps are held in Chail, making it a sought-after destination for camping enthusiasts.

Rastriya Military School: 

 

• Chail is home to one of the five Rastriya Military Schools in India, where cadets are groomed to be future leaders.

Natural Beauty:

 

• Surrounded by chir pine forests and gigantic deodars, Chail offers pleasant summers and chilly winters.

•  On clear nights, you can even see Shimla, Solan, and Kasauli from here.

There are many other hidden places in Shimla and ourskirt worth to visit.

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