Shimla , India

Heritage Walk In Shimla

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About this experience

At a height of 7,200 feet, Shimla was once the summer capital of the British in India. Besides being known for its scenic beauty, the town is also home to several heritage buildings that are best explored on foot. In this Heritage Walk discover the charm of a bygone era as you walk past some of the well preserved structures of this town.

Highlights
• Christ Church
• Gaiety Theater
• Bantony
• Gorton Castle
• Viceregal Lodge

Available options

1-8 Travelers

Price per person for 1-8 travelers<br/>Pickup included

What's included

02 bottles of mineral water per person

Local English speaking guide

Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

You will be picked up from your hotel and driven to Christ Church, the starting point of the walk.

Christ Church is the second church to have been built in North India. Built in the neo-gothic style of architecture, the imposing white structure is a prominent landmark of Shimla. It has some exquisite stained glass windows.

As you walk down the Mall, you will go past the gothic style building of Gaiety Theater. It is a heritage building that now has an exhibition hall and an art gallery besides the old theater hall. Walk past the colonial style building of the General Post Office. The timber framed building is one of the 6 heritage post offices in India. Equally remarkable is the wooden facade of a building called ‘Bantony’ that houses the police station. Discover the former Imperial Bank, the cast iron and steel structure of the Railway Board building and the red-stone chalet like facade of Gorton Castle. You will also see a couple of old houses like Kennedy House and Knockdrin.

The walk will end at the imposing Viceregal Lodge that was the home of the British Viceroys in India.The Lodge now houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies.

At the end of the walk enjoy lunch (own expense) at a local restaurant. After lunch you will be driven back to your hotel.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Subject to favorable weather conditions.

Not recommended for pregnant women and people with back problems.

Consider wearing comfortable clothes and walking shoes.

Gaiety theater and Viceregal Lodge are closed on Mondays. General Post Office is closed on Sundays.

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

About Shimla

Shimla, nestled in the Himalayan foothills, is renowned for its colonial architecture, scenic beauty, and pleasant climate. It served as the summer capital of British India and remains a popular hill station destination.

Top Attractions

The Ridge

The Ridge is the main hub of Shimla, offering stunning views of the Himalayas and the surrounding valleys. It's a popular spot for both tourists and locals.

Scenic 1-2 hours Free

Mall Road

Mall Road is the commercial heart of Shimla, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. It's a great place for shopping and enjoying local delicacies.

Shopping 2-3 hours Varies

Jakhu Temple

Jakhu Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and offers panoramic views of Shimla. The temple is located on Jakhu Hill, the highest point in Shimla.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Shimla State Museum

The Shimla State Museum showcases the cultural and historical heritage of Himachal Pradesh through its extensive collection of artifacts, paintings, and photographs.

Museum 1-2 hours INR 10-50

Annandale

Annandale is a historic British-era picnic spot and military ground, known for its scenic beauty and historical significance.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Siddu

A steamed bread filled with spiced gram flour, often served with ginger chutney or butter

Breakfast Vegetarian

Tudkiya Bhat

A traditional Himachali dish made with rice, black gram, and spices, cooked in a special earthen pot

Main Course Vegetarian

Chana Madra

A popular Himachali dish made with chickpeas cooked in a spicy yogurt gravy

Main Course Vegetarian

Aloo Palda

A dish made with potatoes and black gram, cooked with spices and herbs

Main Course Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Ziplining Horse riding Skiing Picnicking Sightseeing Shopping Dining

Best Time to Visit

March to June

This is the best time to visit Shimla as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The hills are lush green, and the weather is perfect for hiking and exploring.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Hindi, English
Widely spoken: Himachali dialects
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

IST (UTC+5:30)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Shimla is generally safe for travelers, but common precautions should be taken to avoid petty crimes and scams. The hilly terrain can be challenging, so be cautious when walking or driving.

Important Precautions:

• Use metered taxis or agree on the fare before starting your journey
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or tours
• Keep your valuables safe and be aware of your surroundings

Getting there

By air

Jubbarhatti Airport • 23 km from Shimla

By train

Shimla Railway Station

By bus

Shimla Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Shimla. The HRTC operates regular services within the city and to nearby towns.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The Ridge Mall Road Jakhu

Day trips

Kufri

16 km from Shimla • Half day

Kufri is a popular hill station known for its scenic beauty, adventure activities, and wildlife sanctuary. It's a great destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Naldehra

22 km from Shimla • Half day

Naldehra is a picturesque hill station known for its golf course, scenic beauty, and pleasant climate. It's a great destination for golf enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Chail

45 km from Shimla • Full day

Chail is a historic hill station known for its palace, cricket ground, and scenic beauty. It's a great destination for history buffs and nature lovers.

Festivals

Shimla Summer Festival • April Shimla Winter Festival • January Lavi Fair • November

Pro tips

Visit the Ridge and Mall Road in the evening for a vibrant and lively atmosphere
Try local delicacies like Siddu, Tudkiya Bhat, and Chana Madra
Explore the colonial-era architecture and historic sites in Shimla
Take a day trip to nearby destinations like Kufri, Naldehra, and Chail
Experience the scenic beauty of Shimla by hiking or horse riding in the surrounding hills