Welcome to Shimla, the picturesque hill station nestled in the Himalayas. Begin your journey by checking into one of the charming hotels in the city. Take some time to relax and rejuvenate after your journey. In the afternoon, explore The Mall, the main street of Shimla, lined with shops and colonial-era buildings. Enjoy a leisurely stroll and soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. As evening approaches, visit Christ Church, the iconic landmark of Shimla, and witness its majestic beauty when lit up.
The Mall: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Christ Church: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
The Indian Coffee House is a popular breakfast spot with a nostalgic ambiance, serving delicious snacks and South Indian specialties. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
For lunch, head to the Baljees Restaurant, known for its North Indian and Chinese cuisine. Enjoy their extensive menu and delectable dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 400 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit the Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar, offering a fusion of Indian and Continental flavors. Indulge in their fine dining options while enjoying the elegant ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about INR 1000 per person.
Saturday, September 23: Shimla Heritage Walk
Start your day with a heritage walk through the charming streets of Shimla. Begin at Viceregal Lodge, a magnificent colonial building that once served as the summer retreat for British viceroys. Continue to Shimla Heritage Museum to learn about the rich history of the region. In the afternoon, visit Jakhoo Temple, perched atop Jakhoo Hill, and enjoy panoramic views of Shimla. Spend the evening exploring the bustling Lower Bazaar, where you can shop for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and delicious street food.
Jakhoo Temple: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Lower Bazaar: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Sol for a delightful start to your day. This cozy café offers a range of freshly baked goods, along with delicious coffee and refreshing juices. The average cost for a meal here is about 250 INR per person.
For lunch, try Baljees, a popular restaurant known for its mouthwatering Indian and Himachali cuisine. Enjoy a variety of dishes, including their famous chole bhature and mutton curry. The average cost for a meal here is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, make your way to Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar, a trendy restaurant with a warm ambiance and delectable food. Indulge in their signature dishes, such as the Himachali trout or the lamb kakori kebab. The average cost for a meal here is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, September 24: Kufri Excursion
Embark on an exciting day trip to Kufri, a scenic hill station located just a short drive from Shimla. Enjoy the cool mountain air as you explore the lush green landscapes. Visit Kufri Fun World, an amusement park offering thrilling rides and panoramic views. Don't miss the opportunity to go horse riding or yak riding in Kufri. In the afternoon, head to the Himalayan Nature Park to see a variety of Himalayan wildlife. Return to Shimla in the evening and spend some leisure time at Ridge Road, admiring the stunning sunset.
Kufri Fun World: Cost - INR 500, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
For breakfast, head to Cafe Sol. This cozy cafe offers a variety of delicious breakfast options such as fluffy pancakes, omelettes, and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about INR 300 per person.
For lunch, try Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar. Located in a beautiful heritage building, this restaurant serves delectable Indian and International cuisine. Don't miss their famous Tandoori Platter or Pasta Alfredo. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
For dinner, visit Sita Ram & Sons. This iconic eatery is known for its lip-smacking vegetarian food. Enjoy their mouthwatering chole bhature or rajma chawal. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.
Monday, September 25: Shimla Exploration
On your last day in Shimla, explore the town's hidden gems. Start with a visit to Annandale, a picturesque meadow known for its golf course and breathtaking views. Then, head to Chadwick Falls, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Take a leisurely walk along the scenic Glen Forests and enjoy the tranquility of nature. In the afternoon, visit the Shimla State Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of artifacts and artwork from Himachal Pradesh. End your day with a visit to Scandal Point, a popular meeting point with a fascinating history.
Annandale: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
Chadwick Falls: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Glen Forests: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Shimla State Museum: Cost - INR 20, Time Spent - 2 hours
Scandal Point: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Sol. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options, including fluffy pancakes and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to Annandale Army Mess. This charming restaurant serves delicious Indian and Continental cuisine, with a focus on traditional Himachali dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar. Located in The Oberoi Cecil hotel, this elegant restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a menu that showcases both international and regional delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Shimla, don't miss the opportunity to visit The Himalayan Bird Park, a haven for bird lovers with an impressive collection of indigenous and migratory birds. Shimla Water Catchment Sanctuary is another lesser-known gem where you can enjoy a peaceful walk amidst nature. For a unique dining experience, head to Wake & Bake Café, a cozy cafe known for its delicious food and scenic views. Lastly, visit Gorton Castle, an architectural marvel showcasing colonial charm and currently serving as the Government College of Shimla.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices at this link.