Shimla is a charming hill town in the foothills of the Himalayas that looks like it came straight out of a storybook. This place that used to be the summer capital of British India still has that timeless magic about it, with its colonial buildings, lush green hills, and twisting paths that make you want to explore. Shimla has more than just the normal tourist spots. It also has quiet walks and hidden heritage sites that show what it’s really like.
The Magic on Mall Road
Along Mall Road is one of the most famous and beautiful places to walk in Shimla. This stretch is more than just a shopping street. It has old buildings, strange shops, and cosy cafés all along it. It shows how Shimla used to be a British colony. As you walk, you’ll see lamp posts and benches in the Victorian style that make you want to stop and enjoy the view.
When the crowds are thin in the early morning or late evening, this area is especially magical. The beauty of the place speaks louder at those times.
The Ridge: a place where history and the views meet
Along Mall Road is The Ridge, which is the centre of Shimla and has stunning views of the snow-capped mountains. But it’s not just a place to look out. There is a lot of history and culture in that area. Aside from the open space, there are some interesting buildings nearby, such as the 1857 Christ Church and the beautiful medieval State Library.
It’s like going back in time when you walk across The Ridge. It looks like this is where British officers used to meet, but now it’s just a spot for people to relax, take pictures, or watch the world go by. The Ridge turns into a busy place during events or snowfall, but it never loses its old-fashioned charm.
The Scandal Point and the Love of the Past
Scary Point, which is close to The Ridge, has stories as interesting as its name. There is a story that a Maharaja ran away with the daughter of a British officer from this very spot, making a lot of noise. People still like to stop there and take in the view of the valley below and the mountains.
Not only is the view from Scandal Point beautiful, but it also makes you feel like you’re back in time. There are hints of the past everywhere you look, where love stories and secrets used to be told. Another great thing to do is to sit there with a hot cup of tea and watch the people go by.
Jakhoo Hill: A Calm Climb with a View of Heaven
Jakhoo Hill is a must-see for people who like to walk hills and find spiritual places. Along the way to the top, there are trails in the shade, tall deodar trees, and birds singing. It takes you to the Jakhoo Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and has a huge figure that looks out over the town.
It might be a little hard to climb, but the peace and views at the top are worth it. The monkeys that live on this hill will probably meet you along the way. If you walk slowly and with awareness up Jakhoo Hill, you can have some fun and connect spiritually with nature and your faith.
The Viceregal Lodge is a walk through colonial grandeur
The Viceregal Lodge, which is now called the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, is a short drive or a longer walk from the town centre. The British Viceroy of India used to live in this beautiful building. With its lush grounds and tall trees, it’s a great place for a quiet walk.
It’s like going back in time when you walk around the Viceregal Lodge gardens. The building is beautiful, and the air is filled with stories of talks and choices that made Indian history.
Glen Forest is a hidden gem in nature
Glen is a forest area not too far from the main city that not many people know about. You should go here if you want to take a quiet walk in the woods away from everyone else. The trail is easy and winds through pine and cedar woods. As you walk, you can hear the sound of a stream.
People who love the woods but don’t want a tough walk will love The Glen. It’s quiet, has trees for shade, and is full of beautiful nature. It shows a different side of Shimla, one that is pure, peaceful, and very energising.
A peaceful escape is Summer Hill
You can find another beautiful walk in Summer Hill, a quiet area of Shimla. It is home to Himachal Pradesh University and was a favourite place for Mahatma Gandhi to relax in the past. As you walk through this area, oak and pine trees line the path. It’s quiet and cool here.
Summer Hill is unique because of how slowly it moves and how peaceful it is. It’s great for people who want to get away from the main part of town and enjoy Shimla’s calmer, more natural side.
Walk to Find, Not Just See
Shimla’s real beauty comes out when you walk around it, not in a hurry but with interest. All the paths in the area have stories to tell. Some lead to Mall Road, others to Jakhoo Hill, and still others lead through Glen Forest.
Leave a Reply