Begin your tranquil vacation in the capital of Himachal Pradesh with a visit to The Ridge. The open space provides a scenic view of the surrounding hills and shopping opportunities for souvenirs. Don't miss the Christ Church and Kali Bari Temple, which are situated at one end of the Ridge. In the evening, catch the sunset and explore Lakkar Bazaar, famous for its wooden handicrafts.
Spend the day in the scenic town of Kufri, located at an altitude of 2,510 meters above sea level. Visit the Himalayan Nature Park, home to rare antelopes, birds, and big cats. Take a horse or yak ride along the snow-capped mountains. Trek to the Mahasu Peak for a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges. End the day with a warm cup of tea and some freshly baked goods at one of the town's quaint eateries.
Visit the Indian Institute of Advanced Study located on Observatory Hill. This historic colonial building was formerly the residence of the British Viceroy of India. The beautiful estate has a botanical garden and a library with a vast collection of ancient manuscripts. Stroll in the lush gardens and absorb the peaceful atmosphere before ending your trip.
If you have more time, consider visiting Shimla State Museum or taking a toy train ride from Shimla to Kalka, one of the most scenic train rides in the country. For less time, skip Kufri and allocate more time to stroll around The Ridge or visit Jakhu Temple, a Hindu shrine located atop a hill.