A quaint little hill train chugs upinto the Shivalik foothills, over dramatic loops and high arched bridges to the hill resort of Shimla (2130 M) - the capital of the mountain state of Himachal. Shimla's salubrious climate, easy accessibility and numerous attractions have made it one of the most popular hill stations in northern India. The splendid views of the snow-clad ranges of the Himalayas, fine walks through oak and flowering rhododendron, enchanting resorts within easy reach, golf at Naldehra and skiing at Kufri and Narkanda make Shimla an attractive destination throughout the year.

Shimla (also spelt as 'Simla') derives its name from goddess 'Shayamla Devi', which is another manifestation of Goddess Kali. The capital of Himachal Pradesh came into light when the British discovered it in 1819. Till then, it was a part of the Nepalese kingdom. In 1864 Shimla was declared as the summer capital of India. After Independence, Shimla became the capital of Punjab and was later named the capital of Himachal Pradesh. In 1903 a rail line was constructed between Kalka and Shimla.

Climate
Situated in the North-West Himalayas, the climate of Shimla varies from a maximum of 10-11 degrees in winter to a maximum of 25-26 degrees in summers. In spring we see flowers of all kinds, both wild and cultivated, smiling in each garden. Winter in Shimla becomes a frost glistening silent city.

Shopping
There is an enormous range of goods that Shimla has to offer. This includes handicrafts, wood and metalwork, shawls, pullovers, local tweeds, caps, Tibetan carpets and pickles, jams and squashes.

Sightseeing in Shimla

• The Mall
  All visitors to Shimla inevitably walk down the Mall, the main promenade that runs along the top of the ridge - a busy shopping area with old colonial buildings , souvenir shops and restaurants. At the top end of the Mall is Scandal Point, a large open square with a view of the town - a favorite rendezvous for visitors and the local people. Overlooking it is the elegant Christ Church with its fine stained glass windows. The laby-rinth of Shimla's bazaars spill over the edge of the Mall.
• Viceregal Lodge
  Housed in the Gothic splendor of the Viceregal Lodge is the Indian Institute of Advanced studies, India's premier academy for higher research.
• Himachal State Museum
  Very close to the Institute, in a colonial building set in spacious lawns, is the museum. It has collections of Pahari miniatures, stone sculpture, local handicrafts, textiles and embroidery.
• Jakhoo Hill
  The steep climb to Jakhoo Hill, Shimla's highest point, is rewarding for superb views of the town and its surroundings. At the top is an old Hanuman temple. (2Km/1.2 mile)
• Annandale
  The open grounds at Annandale, below the ridge, was a favorite location in the days of the eRaji - the venue of picnics, cricket and polo matches and gymkhana. races. (2.4 Km/1.5 mile)
• Summer Hill
  The quiet and lovely suburb of Summer Hill has secluded, shady walks and charming views. It was here that Gandhiji stayed on his visits to Shimla, in the elegant Gerogian mansion that belonged to Rajkumari Amrit Kaur. Summer Hill is located on the Shimla -Kalka railway line. (5 Km/3 mile)
• Sanjauli
  A serene location with delightful walks, Sanjauli is ideal for a tranquil weekend. There are fine vistas and the lights of Shimla and Chail can be seen twinkling at night. On the other side, Mashobra and Naldehra are visible.