Why Choose Shimla?
Located at an altitude of 2,205 meters, Shimla remains India’s most beloved hill station. Here time seems to slow amidst Victorian architecture and whispering pines. The former summer capital of British India enchants visitors with its timeless colonial heritage.
Take a walk at the Ridge where Gothic buildings like Christ Church, found in 1857, still stand tall and high. The Toy Train, UNESCO-listed, goes past 103 tunnels. It has remained unchanged since 1903. Watch for monkeys stealing sandwiches at Summer Hill station. When you book Shimla Tour Packages, be ready for unmatched experiences. Whether it is moonlit strolls on Scandal Point to pre-dawn photography at Jakhoo Temple, Shimla blends relaxation with adventure. The entire hill station of Shimla is like a nature’s theater. When we talk about the best time to visit Shimla, it is important to know that each season paints new wonders: Pleasant weather is experienced in spring(March-April). With temperatures around 15-25°C, it is conducive for sightseeing. Rhododendron explosions in Glen Forest are seen during this time of the year. Monsoon season lasting from July-August brings misty weather at places like Annandale. It is the perfect time for a budget-friendly trip to Manali. Autumn season(September-October) is known for the crisp air around & apple harvest festivals in the city. October offers golden poplar vistas with 30% fewer tourists than summer. Plan the exploration in the winter wonderland if you are looking to indulge in different activities like skiing, snowboarding, sledging, etc. Snow-dusted rooftops along Mall Road are the highlights in Winter(December-February). Here’s a complete guide to visiting Shimla with the help of Shimla Tour Packages offered by Cliffhangers India. The page takes you on a virtual journey to what you can expect there. Have a look at: Which is better: Manali or Shimla?
Types of Shimla Tour Packages
Honeymoon Packages
Shimla’s timeless charm makes it India’s most romantic mountain escape. The Shimla honeymoon tour packages blend colonial elegance with intimate and romantic Himalayan moments:
Unique Experiences:
1.Private Candlelit Dinners at times old architecture marvels with valley views.
2.Sunrise Couple’s Spa using expensive apple-blossom oils.
3.Exclusive Toy Train Ride in heritage first-class carriage (champagne service included in the package.)
Stay Choices: Couples are given a number of choices in terms of accomodation.
→Luxury: High-end suites with fireplace butler service.
→Boutique: Apple Orchard side cottages with private hot tubs.
→Heritage: British-era villas with king-sized beds.
Special Touches to the experience include handwritten love letters delivered with breakfast.
Moonlight strolls with a local historian guide enhances the entire adventure to new heights.
Family Packages
Shimla family packages turn Shimla into a stress-free playground. Accommodate at child-friendly hotels near Mall Road where indoor play areas and flexible meal times are part of the stay.
Highlights of the package Include:
- Toy Train Joy Rides with interactive history guides.
- Easy Nature Walks to Chadwick Falls Note: We always pick the stroller-friendly paths.
- Interactive Family-inclusive workshops at State Museum.
Special Features:
→For comfort of grandparents and elderly, hotels are picked with elevators & ramp access.
→Instagram-worthy scavenger hunts are included in the package.
Family Perks:
- Some hotels do offer complimentary babysitting for at least 2 evenings.
- Family photo session at The Ridge
- Customized meal plans for picky eaters
Adventure Packages
For adrenaline chasers, Shimla offers more than just scenic views. Shimla adventure activities included in the Shimla Tour Packages unlock the region’s wild side with carefully vetted experiences:
Must-Do Activities in Shimla:
- Mountain Biking down 18 km of forest trails from Kufri. Gears are included in the package.
- Ice Climbing at Narkanda (Jan-Feb only).
- Night Trekking to Jakhoo Hill with astronomers (summer months are convenient as the nights are clear and star-lit)
Unique Offerings:
Paragliding over apple orchards with GoPro footage.
Whitewater Rafting on the Sutlej (Grade III rapids). It is a summer essential for ultimate experience.
Camping at undiscovered meadow sites.
Safety First:
→Throughout the activity, you are accompanied by certified guides with wilderness medical training.
→Premium equipment, catering to the needs of the activity are provided.
Budget Packages
Experience Shimla’s charm without breaking the bank with our wallet-friendly Shimla budget packages designed for backpackers and students. Here, the focus is more on the experience rather than the luxury. With minimal yet adequate facilities, we offer ultimate experience at an affordable pricing.
Smart Savings Include:
1.Dorm Stays at heritage hostels near Mall Road. It costs around ₹500/night.
2.Group Sightseeing in shared taxis priced at ₹300/day only.
3.Local Eats Guide to ₹100 thali spots.
Budget Must-Dos:
→Free Walking Tours of colonial architecture
→Take sunrise Hikes to avoid attraction fees.
→Book Toy Train 2nd Class. You witness the same views at 1/3rd price.
Luxury Packages
Looking for a high-end experience? Indulge in Shimla’s colonial grandeur with our popular luxury packages, where heritage meets modern facilities:
Signature Offerings:
Suite Stays at 5 star heritage properties like Oberoi Cecil or Wildflower Hall.
Private Chauffeur Service in vintage SUV cars.
Exclusive access to colonial buildings for sightseeing.
Unforgettable Experiences:
→Complete transfers from Chandigarh/Delhi This way, you can avoid the 8-hour self- drive.
→Gourmet dining with Michelin-trained chefs using local ingredients is presented to you during every meal.
→Personalized spa sessions using Himalayan herbs and hot stone therapies are also included in the package.
Package Inclusions:
- 24/7 Butler service
- Private guided tours with historians
- Champagne sunset at The Ridge
How to Reach Shimla
By Air:
The Jubbarhatti Airport (SLV) is Shimla’s nearest airstrip (22 km away), but with limited flights (only 2-3 daily from Delhi in peak season).
Most travelers fly to Chandigarh (160 km) or Delhi (350 km) and take a taxi (₹3,500-₹4,500) or Volvo bus (₹800-₹1,200).
Travel Tip: If flying to Jubbarhatti, book morning flights. Afternoon cancellations are common due to sudden fog.
By Train:
The Kalka-Shimla Toy Train (UNESCO-listed) is the most scenic route, winding through 102 tunnels and 864 bridges in a 5-hour journey. Trains depart from Kalka Station It is well-connected to Delhi via Shatabdi Express.
Why Take It?
- Stops at photogenic stations like Barog (highest tunnel)
- Slow pace lets you soak in pine-covered hills
- No traffic jams, unlike road trips
Travel Tip: Book VIP class for cleaner toilets and cushioned seats, catering to a relaxed experience.
By Road:
Shimla is well-connected by road, making it the most flexible option. You can plan a fun and exciting Shimla trip from Delhi/Chandigarh/Mumbai via private vehicles.
Best Choices:
Volvo Buses (Delhi to Shimla, ₹1,000-₹1,500, overnight). It is quite an affordable option per se.
Private Taxis (Chandigarh to Shimla, ₹3,000) It takes around 4 hours to cover the journey.
Self-Drive (NH5 is smooth, but avoid monsoon landslides during July and August)
Scenic Stops Along the Way:
- Parwanoo – Try fresh apple juice at roadside stalls
- Dharampur – Stretch at a Himalayan viewpoint café
- Shoghi – Last fuel stop before Shimla. Fill up your tanks if you are on a car journey.
Travel Tip: The Kalka-Shimla toy train is a must for a nostalgic mountain ride. Book in advance!
Popular Shimla Attractions Covered in Packages
Mall Road
The lifeline of Shimla, this pedestrian-only boulevard buzzes with colonial charm, street food, and handicraft shops. Morning walks here offer crisp mountain air and stunning views.
Highlights: Gaiety Theatre, Scandal Point, souvenir shopping
Duration: 2-3 hours (best at sunset)
Entry Fee: Free (shopping/eating extra)
The Ridge
Shimla’s open square with panoramic Himalayan vistas, surrounded by neo-Gothic buildings. The heart of local festivals and cultural events.
Highlights: Christ Church, Lakkar Bazaar, photography spots
Duration: 1 hour
Entry Fee: Free
Jakhoo Temple
Perched at Shimla’s highest point, this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman features a 108-foot statue and sweeping valley views.
Highlights: Giant Hanuman idol, ropeway ride, monkey sightings
Duration: 1.5 hours (include ropeway time)
Entry Fee: Free (Ropeway: ₹500 round-trip)
Christ Church
Shimla’s oldest church (1857) boasts stained-glass windows and Victorian-era architecture. Peaceful interiors contrast with the bustling Mall Road outside.
Highlights: Evening prayer services, historic plaques
Duration: 30 minutes
Entry Fee: Free (donations welcome)
Kufri
A winter wonderland (Dec-Feb) and summer adventure hub, just 16 km from Shimla.
Highlights: Skiing, yak rides, Himalayan Zoo
Duration: Half-day
Entry Fee: Free (Adventure activities extra)
Green Valley
A breathtaking stretch of dense deodar forests along the Shimla-Kufri road, often draped in mist.
Highlights: Photography stop, snow views in winter
Duration: 20-minute stop
Entry Fee: Free
Viceregal Lodge
The British Raj’s summer headquarters, now a museum with manicured gardens and rare historical documents.
Highlights: Guided tours, Edwardian architecture
Duration: 1 hour
Entry Fee: ₹50 (Camera: ₹200 extra)
Chadwick Falls
A 100-foot waterfall hidden in Shimla’s forests, it is one of the best places to visit in Shimla. It is ideally visited post-monsoon (July-Sept).
Highlights: Short nature walk, picnic spots
Duration: 1-2 hours round-trip
Entry Fee: Free
Naldehra Golf Course
India’s oldest golf course (1905), set amidst rolling meadows and cedar woods.
Highlights: 9-hole course, horse riding
Duration: 2-3 hours
Entry Fee: ₹1,500 (18 holes)
Himalayan Nature Park
A biodiversity hotspot near Kufri with rare Himalayan species like snow leopards and musk deer.
Highlights: Guided nature trails, birdwatching
Duration: 1.5 hours
Entry Fee: ₹100
Toy Train Ride
The UNESCO-listed Kalka-Shimla train offers a nostalgic journey through 102 tunnels and pine-clad hills.
Highlights: Barog Tunnel, scenic valleys
Duration: 5 hours
Entry Fee: ₹400
Things to Do in Shimla
Adventure Sports
The hill station’s rugged terrain offers adventures beyond typical activities.
The Kufri Adventure Park (open May-Nov) features Asia’s highest go-kart track and zorbing down flower-covered slopes.
For water lovers, Tattapani (1.5hrs from Shimla) provides Grade II-III rafting with stunning river canyon views. It costs around ₹1,500 pp. Such adventure sports are often part of Shimla itinerary for 3/5/7 days.
Must-Try: Paragliding over Chail (₹3,500 with go pro video)
Best Time: 9AM-12PM (clear visibility is the highlight.)
Safety: Always check operator licenses.
Local Tip: Winter brings unique ice-climbing opportunities near Narkanda. Equipment is included in packages.
Skiing & Snow Fun (Winter)
From December to February, Shimla’s slopes transform into a winter playground.
Kufri and Narkanda offer ski rentals at ₹1,200/day with basic training for beginners. When you book Kufri Packages in winter, skiing is a must activity to include in the itinerary.
The Himalayan Snow Carnival (Jan) in Shimla features snowman competitions and sledding races.
Best Spots:
1.Mahasu Peak (intermediate slopes for beginners and seasoned skiers)
2.Fagu Valley ( quite a family-friendly area offering holistic time)
Clothing Rentals: Jackets are available at ₹300, boots cost around ₹200.
Unique Experience: Night skiing under floodlights. It is best experienced in Kufri on weekends only.
Caution: Check road conditions before heading to higher snow points.
Nature Photography
Shimla’s ever-changing landscapes offer endless frames. Golden hour gems offer postcard perfect pictures, where there’s no need for any filter.
Starting with the Summer Hill Cemetery where frost-covered tombstones in winter are present.
Sunbeams pierced through mist Glen Forest, forming a picture perfect landscape.
At Annandale Ground, fog rolls over the cricket field creating a metaphysical effect to the clicks.
Pro Equipment Tips:
- Polarizing filter for vibrant skies
- Tripod for stable shots.
- Lens hood to combat glare off snow
- ₹500 permit for professional shoots at Viceregal Lodge.
Hidden Spot: The oak forest near Chadwick Falls reveals rare Himalayan birds at dawn.
Trekking Trails
Shimla is home to a number of breathtaking trekking trails and it is one of the best things to do here. It is often included in Shimla Tour Packages. Beyond popular hikes, discover these local-favorite routes as you visit the city.
1.Shali Tibba (Full-day; 360° Himalayan views)
2.Churdhar Peak (2-day; highest in outer Himalayas)
3.Karol Tibba (Half-day; wildflower meadows)
Essentials:
- Hire guides, at ₹1,500/day for unknown trails
- Carry glucose tablets as altitude hits unexpectedly.
- Monsoon leech guards if trekking in July or August. (₹50 at Lakkar Bazaar)
Magical Moment: Full-moon treks to Jakhoo Temple are highly recommended. Temple lights are visible for miles.
Spiritual Visits
Shimla’s sacred sites blend religions and landscapes. Here are some popular and religiously significant sites to explore.
- Kali Bari Temple: Morning aarti with valley views
- Dorje Drak Monastery: Butter sculpture workshops
- St. Michael’s Cathedral: 1886 pipe organ concerts
Unique Practice:
Light mustard oil lamps at Hadimba Temple using century-old brass holders.
Best Time:
Tuesdays/Saturdays are the best times for such spiritual visits as you can witness special rituals with local musicians.
Local Shopping
Skip tourist traps for these authentic buys:
- Handmade Paper (Rampur, ₹100/sheet)
- Kullu Caps (Original ones have HP tag, costs around₹600+)
- Mountain Honey (Ask for “Buransh” variety)
Bargaining Rules:
- Start at 60% of quoted price
- Pay cash for 10% discount
- Avoid “fixed price” government emporiums
Hidden Market: Sanjauli Sunday Bazaar for tribal silver jewelry.
Café Hopping
Shimla’s café scene mixes colonial charm with hipster vibes:
- Wake & Bake: Try rhododendron pancakes (₹180)
- Honey Hut: Comb honey straight from Kufri apiaries
- Café Simla Times: 1940s typewriter for guest notes
Local Order:
“Bun samosa” (₹40) – Shimla’s twist on tea-time snacks.
Camping & Bonfire Evenings
Escape crowded hotels for these stellar camping spots:
- Shogi (Pine forest with city light views)
- Chail (Near cricket ground, stargazing heaven)
Package Includes:
- Local storytellers sharing ghost legends
- Bonfire-grilled trout (caught same day)
- Emergency oxygen cans
Weather Hack: Full-moon nights need no lanterns!
Best Time to Visit Shimla
Shimla’s charm transforms dramatically with each season, offering unique experiences year-round:
March–June (Peak Season)
Why Visit:
- Pleasant temperatures (12°C–25°C) perfect for sightseeing
- Clear skies for panoramic Himalayan views
- Ideal for families with school breaks
Highlights:
1.Toy train rides without fog disruptions
2.Kufri’s adventure park opens (ziplining, horse riding)
3.Spring blooms in Glen Forest (March–April)
Tip: Book hotels 2–3 months early since this is Shimla’s busiest period.
July–September (Monsoon Magic)
Why Visit:
- Lush emerald landscapes with misty valleys
- 30–50% lower hotel rates
- Fewer tourists at major sites
Considerations:
1.Light showers (July–Aug) refresh the air
2.Road delays possible due to landslides
3.Best for photographers (dramatic clouds)
Hidden Perk: Orchards begin apple harvesting in September.
October–February (Winter Wonderland)
Why Visit:
- Snow transforms Shimla into a white paradise (Dec–Jan)
- Cozy cabin stays with fireplace evenings
- Romantic ambiance for couples
Key Notes:
1.Upper Shimla (Kufri/Narkanda) gets heaviest snow
2.Christmas/New Year sees festive markets
3.Some attractions close January due to extreme cold
Pro Tip: For guaranteed snow, visit early January before roads get slushy.
Essential Shimla Travel Tips
Packing Essentials
- Layer Clothing – Even summers drop to 15°C at night (pack fleece/light jacket)
- Waterproof Gear – Sudden showers occur year-round (local ponchos cost ₹100)
- Sturdy Footwear – Cobblestone streets and hiking trails require grip
Winter Travel (December–February)
- Road Conditions – Check HP Traffic Police updates for snow/landslide alerts
- Vehicle Readiness – Ensure taxis have snow chains (extra ₹500–800 charge)
- Skin Protection – Cold winds cause chapping (buy local apricot balm for ₹60 at any local shop)
Booking Smart
- Peak Season – Reserve 3 months early for May–June, Christmas, and ski season.
- Last-Minute Stays – Check for unsold hotel inventory after 2PM
Staying Connected
- Mobile Networks – Jio has the best coverage (Airtel works in town)
- Battery Backup – Cold drains phone batteries (keep a power bank handy)
Local Insights
- Seasonal Foods – Try June cherries or September wild mushrooms
Transport Tips – Negotiate round-trip taxi fares (saves 30%)
Photography – Always ask permission before photographing locals
Unexpected Necessities: Bring Reusable Water Bottle and refill at Ridge/Mall Road fountains.
Hand Sanitizer – Many public areas lack washrooms.
Printed Addresses – Some drivers may not understand English
Booking Process + Why Book with Cliffhangers India
Booking your Shimla Tour Packages with Cliffhangers India is seamless and personalized:
- Submit Your Enquiry
- Fill out a short form on our website or call our travel experts
- Share your preferences (dates, budget, interests, group size)
- Receive a Custom Itinerary
- Get a tailored plan within 24 hours
- Options for luxury, budget, adventure, or family-friendly trips
- Review & Adjust
- Discuss modifications with your dedicated trip planner
- Transparent pricing – no hidden costs (permits, taxes included)
- Confirm & Travel Stress-Free
- Secure booking with a 20% deposit
- Pre-trip briefing + 24/7 local support during your stay
Flexibility Guaranteed:
- Free cancellations (up to 15 days prior)
- Last-minute changes accommodated
- Emergency contacts provided
Why Book with Cliffhangers India?
Local expert in Himachal Tours: Cliffhangers India is your trusted travel partner for unforgettable Himachal Pradesh adventures. As local experts, we know the region inside-out. From the best time to visit snow-covered peaks to hidden villages untouched by mass tourism, we provide complete local insights. Organising tours in Himachal for years, we know hidden trails, weather quirks, and cultural gems of the hill station. We specialize in creating memorable journeys that go beyond typical tourist spots.
Personalised experience: Our team carefully selects every stay and experience to ensure high standards of comfort, authenticity, and safety. Whether you’re looking for cozy homestays, luxury resorts, or thrilling treks, everything is handpicked to match your preferences. Customizable Shimla Trips are presented to the clients, ensuring a memorable experience.
Transparent pricing: We believe in fair and transparent pricing. What you see is what you pay, no hidden charges, no last-minute surprises.
24/7 on-ground support: With 24/7 on-ground support, you’ll always have someone to assist you throughout your trip, giving you peace of mind.
Customizable packages for every travel style: Our customizable packages suit every kind of traveler, solo explorers, families, honeymooners, or adventure seekers. From serene valleys to high mountain passes, we tailor your trip to fit your travel style.
With Cliffhangers India, you’re not just booking a tour, you’re experiencing Himachal through the eyes of those who call it home.
Let us help you explore the magic of the Himalayas like never before.
Special requests? We make it happen.
Our Promise:
- Safety-vetted partners
- Eco-conscious travel options
- Authentic interactions with locals
Where to Shop in Shimla
Lakkar Bazaar
Famous for its wooden crafts, this market near The Ridge echoes with the sound of chisels shaping walnut and deodar wood. The scent of fresh sawdust fills the air as artisans work on traditional designs passed down through generations.
Must-Buy:
- Hand-carved photo frames (₹200-800)
- Custom-made walking sticks (₹150-500)
- Decorative wooden boxes with brass inlay
Tibetan Market
A burst of color along Mall Road, where Tibetan refugees sell vibrant handicrafts. The market comes alive with the clinking of prayer wheels and the rustle of silk.
Must-Buy:
- Woolen gloves with Himalayan motifs (₹100-300)
- Singing bowls (₹500-2,000)
- Thangka paintings (₹1,500+)
- Pro Tip: Visit post-5PM when prices drop by 20%.
Himachal Emporium
The government-run store near Scandal Point offers authentic, tax-free handicrafts with quality guarantees. Airy and organized, it’s a stress-free shopping experience.
Must-Buy:
- Certified Kullu shawls (₹1,800-5,000)
- Silver tribal jewelry (₹800-3,000)
- Organic jams (sea buckthorn/wild apricot)
Pro Tip: Ask for the “artist signed” section for collector’s pieces.
Lower Bazaar
Shimla’s oldest market, a maze of narrow lanes buzzing with local trade. The real charm lies in its everyday hustle beyond tourist areas.
Must-Buy:
- Hand-knitted wool socks (₹80/pair)
- Traditional Himachali caps (₹250-600)
- Dried morel mushrooms (monsoon season only)
- Pro Tip: Follow the scent of fresh bread to tiny bakeries selling sourdough.
Middle Bazaar
The garment hub between Mall Road and Lower Bazaar, where tailors work magic with local tweeds and imported fabrics.
Must-Buy:
- Custom-made wool coats (2-day tailoring, ₹2,500+)
- Pashmina stoles (bargain hard, starts at ₹1,200)
- Vintage British-era buttons (collector’s items)
- Pro Tip: Get measured in the morning for same-day fittings.
Where to Eat in Shimla
Café Simla Times
- Tucked inside a heritage building near The Ridge, this café blends colonial charm with quirky memorabilia. Vintage typewriters and framed newspapers set the mood.
Specialty:
- Himachali Dham Platter – Traditional feast with madra (yogurt curry) and siddu (steamed buns)
- Rhododendron Lemonade – Made from wild Himalayan flowers
Wake & Bake Café
A cozy wooden cottage in Chotta Shimla, famous for its fireplace lounge and mountain-view balcony. The owner personally sources ingredients from local farmers.
Specialty:
- Apple Pie – Made with orchard-fresh Kinnaur apples
- Sea Buckthorn Cheesecake – Tangy Himalayan superfruit twist
Ashiana Restaurant
Operating since 1983 near Lakkar Bazaar, this family-run spot is where locals celebrate special occasions.
Specialty:
- Trout Amritsari – Fresh river fish in spiced gram flour batter
- Safed Maans – Creamy lamb curry with local herbs
Indian Coffee House
A 1960s institution on Mall Road, with red-uniformed waiters and old-world charm.
Specialty:
- Masala Omelette – Served with their legendary buttered toast
- Filter Coffee – South Indian-style in brass tumblers
Mall Road Street Stalls
Follow the aroma of sizzling oils near Regal Building for Shimla’s best quick bites.
Specialty:
- Channa Bhatura – Fluffy bread with spicy chickpeas (₹60)
- Aloo Tikki – Crispy potato patties with tamarind chutney
Trishool Bakers
A hole-in-the-wall bakery in Lower Bazaar, still using the original 1952 wood-fired oven. You must have heard about it in an old interview of Bollywood Actress “Preity Zinta”. She finds the pastries sold here, the best ones in the world.
Specialty:
- Honey Cakes – Drizzled with local wildflower honey
- Savory Puffs – Stuffed with morel mushrooms in season
Krishna Bakery
Hidden near Christ Church, this tiny shop supplies bread to most Shimla hotels.
Specialty:
- Plum Cake – Boozy winter special (available Nov-Jan)
- Whole Wheat Biscuits – Perfect for trekking snacks
FAQ's
What is the cost of a Shimla trip for 2 people?
Shimla Budget trips start at ₹18,000 for 3D/2N, Volvo transport + stay. Mid-range averages to ₹30,000 including hotels + private cab.
Are Shimla packages suitable for children?
Yes! Shimla Tour Packages are suitable for children. It includes:
- Child-friendly hotels with heaters
- Easy nature walks (Jakhoo Temple)
- Interactive toy train rides
- Infant cots/sterilizers available on request.
What should I pack for Shimla?
Essentials to pack for Shimla:
- Layered woolens (nights drop to 5°C even in summer)
- Waterproof shoes (cobblestones get slippery)
- Medicines for motion sickness (winding roads)
Is the Kalka–Shimla toy train operational throughout the year?
Yes, it is operational throughout the year: However,
- July-August: Delays due to landslides
- December-January: Possible cancellations if tracks snowed under
- Best months: March-June & September-November.
Can Shimla be combined with Manali in one trip?
Absolutely! The 7D/6N Himachal packages include scenic drive via Kullu Valley and shared transport options to save costs. Customizable stays in both hill stations are organised too.
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