Shimla, one of India's most famous hill stations, derives its name from Goddess Shyamala, an incarnation of Goddess Kali, the deity of power and wrath. However, unlike its name, Shimla is a perfect heaven for the ones in search of tranquility. Nature has blessed this capital city with innumerable gifts and man has used them to make Shimla one of India's best locales.
Perched at an altitude of 2159 m above sea level, Shimla is located towards the southern parts of the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. 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. Around Christmas, Shimla experiences snowfall.
Scandal Point
The Mall further joins the Ridge at the Scandal Point of Kipling's Shimla, where a statue of the nationalist leader Lala Lajpat Rai has been erected. The six-storeyed Vice-Regal Lodge or Rashtrapati Niwas, about 4.5 km from Scandal Point, attracts many visitors. It was built in 1888 and was formerly the residence of Lord Dufferin, the British Viceroy. The style of architecture is English Renaissance, the masonry of the walling is light blue limestone and the wrought stonework is done in sandstone in a beautiful light gray tint. Nearby is the Himalayan aviary that has a good collection of birds, including the Monal pheasant, Himachal's state bird.
Jhaku Temple
Jhaku temple dedicated to Hanumanji, the attendant of Lord Rama, is to the east of the town center, near the highest point of the Shimla Ridge. It is at a height of 8048 feet above sea level and offers a panoramic view of the city. Southeast from Jhaku is the long spur of Chotta Shimla, with Barnes Court. Once the residence of the Governor General of Punjab, it is now the official residence of the Governor of Himachal Pradesh.
Jakhoo Temple
2 km east of the city on the Jakhoo Hill is the small Jakhoo Temple. Atop the highest point in Shimla,it keeps the visitors in constant company of the playful monkeys,who inhabit the environs of this Hanuman temple in hundreds.
Mashobra
Pine and oak woods frame the beautiful retreat of Mashobra,12 km out of Shimla. Enchanting trails wind through the forest to lovely gardens. Through thick woods,a side road leads to Bekhalty. From the heart of Mashobra,a pedestrian track leads down to Sipur. This is a large and exquisite glade shaded by ancient cedar trees. Streams of cool water gently divide it. The pastoral picture is completed by the temples on the edge. A trek to Shali Peak - the highest in the area,can be made from Mashobra.
Kufri
A little hamlet,just 16 km away from Shimla,offers unparalled views of the countryside and the majestic HImlayan mountains. The Winter Sports capital,Kufri is the focal point of a large number of ski enthusiasts who come here to enjoy the fine ski slopes.
Climate
In winter, the temperture can drop below freezing point when heavy wollens are required. Summer temperture are mild and light wollens/cottons are recommended.
