Shimla Travel Guide 2025: Best Places to Visit in the Queen of Hills

Plan your Shimla trip with this 2025 travel guide featuring top attractions like Jakhu Temple, The Ridge, Kalka-Shimla Toy Train, and Mall Road. Discover the best time to visit and exciting things to do in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh.

Overview

Shimla, the picturesque hill station nestled in the Himalayas, is a vibrant blend of colonial charm, scenic beauty, and rich heritage. Known as the “heartbeat of Mall Road,” Shimla captivates visitors with its snow-capped peaks, bustling streets, and cool mountain air. Whether it’s the historic temples, thrilling adventures, or simply relaxing amidst lush green landscapes, Shimla provides a timeless retreat for travelers seeking Shimla travel 2025 experiences.

Best Places to Visit in Shimla for First-Time Travelers

• 1. Jaku Temple: Set atop a hill in the Shivalik ranges, Jaku Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the Hindu monkey god. The temple is famed for its vibrant festivals, folk dances, and panoramic views, making it a hotspot for Himachal Pradesh religious tourism 2025.
• 2. The Ridge and Scandal Point: The Ridge serves as Shimla’s cultural and social hub, stretching behind Mall Road and culminating at Scandal Point. It’s a lively spot for festivals, street shopping, and stunning views of snowy valleys — perfect for Shimla sightseeing tours and Instagram-worthy moments.
• 3. Rashtrapati Niwas (Viceregal Lodge): Built in 1888 in Scottish baronial style, this historic six-story mansion was once home to British viceroys. Today, it houses a museum and heritage garden tours, popular among history buffs and colonial heritage tours in Shimla.
• 4. Kalka–Shimla Toy Train: This UNESCO World Heritage narrow-gauge railway offers one of the most scenic rides in India, weaving through forests and tunnels — a must-try for travelers seeking Shimla toy train experiences in 2025.
• 5. Kali Bari Temple: Located near Mall Road, this temple dedicated to Goddess Kali is known for its sacred rituals and colorful idols. It’s a major attraction for spiritual tours in Shimla and pilgrims from across India.

Things to Do in Shimla

• Experience breathtaking views on the Jakhu Ropeway cable car.
• Sip aromatic coffee and sample local cuisine at cafes along Lakkar Bazaar.
• Book a cozy hillside cottage for views of Shimla's valleys and rivers.
• Enjoy nature walks in the surrounding pine forests.
• Visit the Indian Army Museum for a glimpse into the region’s military history.s

Best Time to Visit Shimla

The ideal months to visit are March to June and September to December, when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities like skiing and river rafting are available.

Highlights

Shimla stands out for its colonial architecture, cultural richness, and adventure activities, including skiing, camping, and ice skating during the peak winter. Combining moderate climate, verdant greenery, and historic charm, Shimla is a must-visit Himalayan hill station in 2025.