Shimla
Shimla,
the summer capital of the British India, is situated
at a height of 2,196 metres. While the British have
left the echoes linger on. today, its well developed
facilities, easy accessibility and many attractions
make it one of India's most popular resorts. In the
Himalyan lower ranges, it is surrounded by pine,
cedar, oak and rhododendron forests.
Shimla is located
towards the southern parts of the north Indian state of
Himachal Pradesh. Now It is the state capital and is at
a distance of 343 km from Delhi, 260 km from Manali, and
119 km from Chandigarh. The temperature range is not
very high and the maximum temperature rarely crosses
25°C during summers. Winters are cold due to the chilly
winds from the upper Himalayas.
The British
discovered Shimla in the form of a little village in
1819. Until then, it was a part of the Nepalese
kingdom. It was during Lord William Bentinck's time
that Shimla was truly acquired by the Government of
India. The British persuaded the local Raja to part
with the land in 1830, and the settlement became the
subcontinent's most fashionable summer resort. In
1864, Shimla was declared the summer capital of
India. After the independence of India, Shimla
became the capital of Punjab until 1966, when it
came under Himachal Pradesh.
Shimla has been
blessed with all the natural bounties, one can think
of. Dwelling on a panoramic location, the hilly town
is surrounded by green pastures and snow-capped
peaks. The spectacular cool hills accompanied by the
structures made during the colonial era create an
aura, which is very different from other hill
stations.
Places to Visit
Ridge: The Ridge is one place
in Shimla where you must spend at least a couple of
hours in a day, basking in the lazy sun. You won't
be alone though, for the Ridge is perpetually
swarming with the young and the old, out for a
chitter-chatter stroll, a plate-full of chaat or a
few shutterbug clicks of poses against the distant
peaks.
Lakkad Bazaar: Find this world of wooden
marvels right below the ridge. Lakkad Bazaar offers
anything and everything you can imagine carved out
of wood. From key chains, walking sticks, massagers,
toys and jewellery boxes to sailor's wheels,
planters and stationary holders - Lakkad Bazaar
gives you plenty to pick from and take back home for
friends and relatives, without flattening your
wallets
St Michael’s:
St Michael's Cathedral is a stained-glass masterpiece.
Once considered the finest cathedral in India, it
depicts Hope, Faith, Patience and Humility.
Institute of Advanced Studies: Built in 1888, the
institute was originally the Viceregal Lodge. It's a
magnificent English Renaissance grey-stone edifice set
admist beautiful gardens and lawns. Entry is by ticket.
The grounds are open for visitors only on Sundays.
Tara Devi Temple: Situated atop a hill, Tara Devi
leaves visitors gasping at the panoramic views. Built
amidst oak and rhododendrons, it is accessible by road,
rail and by foot.
Jakhoo Hill/Temple -
dedicated to the monkey god, Lord Hanuman:
At 2455 m,this
is the town's highest peak and a vantage point for
Shimla's famous views. The summit is crowned with a
temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The hill is full
of paths and narrow roads which are enjoyable walks.
How to reach
Shimla
BY
Air : Shimla Airport is 23 kms from
the city connected by daily flights from Delhi and Kullu.
By Rail:
Broadguage Railway line upto Kalka connecting Delhi,
Calcutta and Amritsar. Kalka to Shimla (95 kms.) by
Narrow gauge railway.
By Road:
Well connected with Kalka. Chandigarh, Delhi, Amritsar
and Jammu etc.
By Local Transport: Taxis,autos and
ponies are available.
