Wednesday, June 12, 2013

Shimla

Shimla
Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh and former summer capital of British India, is the state's most important centre. It is named after its patron goddess, Shamla Devi, a manifestation of Kali. Shimla located at an altitude of 7,267 feet, is inhabited around a crescent - shaped ridge, which is blessed with perennially cool air. It provides superb panoramic sights of the valleys, and the lofty peaks of the great Himalayan range, on both sides. To the north, the awesome snow ranges race across the horizon. The cool breeze wafts across the country side, flows through the oak and rhododendron forests. Shimla's salubrious climate, easy accessibility and numerous attractions have made it one of the most popular hill stations in northern India.







Places of Interest:

Rashtrapati Niwas
Rashtrapati Niwas:
This was formerly the residence of the British Viceroy. The huge, fortress like building has six storeys and magnificent reception and dining halls. Set in beautiful gardens, it now houses the Institute of Advanced Studies.
Jakhoo Temple
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.



Snow fall in Shimla
» The Mall: A busy shopping area with old colonial buildings, souvenir shops and restaurants. Narrow cobble-stoned paths wind down to the middle and lower bazaars where tribals from the hills around gather to sell their quaint and colorful artifacts. At the top end of the Mall is the Scandal Point, a large open square with a view of the town - a favourite rendezvous for visitors and the local people.

» Chadwick Falls (8 km): At 2149 m this beautiful suburb is surrounded by thick forest. From here, a track leads down to Sipur which is an exquisite glade shaded by ancient deodar trees.

» Other places: Prospects Hill, Sankat Mochan, Tara Devi, Windflower Hall, Viceregal Lodge and the State Museum are the other attractions.

Shoppers guide:
Shimla is place where one can get good woodcarvings and shawls. The Tibetan Refugee shop, located between the lift and Oberoi Clarke, is worth a visit. It also has weaving bags and clothes and good selection of earrings and other jewellery.
Climate:
Summers: Temperatures varies between 30 degree Celsius.
Winters: Temperatures varies between sub-zero degree Celsius.

Travel Connectivity:
» Airway: Shimla has an airport, 22 km away, from the main city with regular flights to Delhi. Chandigarh airport, 120 km away on the plains, has flights at more regular intervals. The flights to Shimla may be called off, during the winter months of December, January and February, so you will need to check them up in advance.

» Railway: Broad-gauge trains run till Kalka, from all the parts of the country. From Kalka onwards, a rail car on narrow gauge takes you to Shimla which offers some fantastic sights. You can also take a bus from Kalka to Shimla.

» Roadway: Shimla is connected by road to Chandigarh, Delhi, Dehradun, Kalka, and to many other places as well.

1 comment:

  1. I like the things which you have given in the midst of us. It gives me pleasure when i have the time to go through this types of the lines which you have given here. Shimla is the best place which the honeymooners can use it in spending out the honeymoon in the most romantic ways. The day which i visited this place was one of the most romantic day which i could spend out.

    ReplyDelete