A Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in Shimla

Wednesday, October 25: Arrival and Mall Road Exploration

Welcome to Shimla! Start your trip by exploring the famous Mall Road, the heart of the city. In the morning, take a leisurely walk along this bustling street, lined with shops, restaurants, and colonial-era buildings. Enjoy the pleasant weather and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, visit The Ridge, a spacious open area on Mall Road, and take in the panoramic scenery. As the evening sets in, indulge in some local street food and shop for souvenirs.

  • Mall Road: Free, 3-4 hours
  • The Ridge: Free, 1-2 hours
Thursday, October 26: Kufri and Himalayan Nature Park

Embark on a day trip to Kufri, a picturesque hill station located near Shimla. In the morning, visit the Himalayan Nature Park, which houses a variety of wildlife species, including snow leopards, musk deer, and Himalayan bears. Explore the park's walking trails and enjoy the serene surroundings. Afterward, head to Kufri Fun World, an amusement park with thrilling rides and activities for the whole family. Wrap up the day by savoring a cup of hot cocoa while admiring the snow-capped peaks.

  • Himalayan Nature Park: INR 150 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Kufri Fun World: INR 450 per person, 2-3 hours
Friday, October 27: Jakhu Temple and Viceregal Lodge

Start your day with a visit to Jakhu Temple, located atop Jakhu Hill. Trek through the lush forests to reach the temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, and enjoy panoramic views of Shimla from the hilltop. In the afternoon, explore the majestic Viceregal Lodge, formerly the summer residence of the British viceroys. Discover the colonial architecture and stroll through the beautifully maintained gardens. Wrap up the day with a relaxing picnic amidst the tranquil surroundings.

  • Jakhu Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Viceregal Lodge: INR 20 per person, 2-3 hours
Saturday, October 28: Tara Devi Temple and Shimla State Museum

Visit the Tara Devi Temple, situated on Tara Parvat, offering stunning views of Shimla and the surrounding valleys. Take a scenic drive to reach the temple and seek the blessings of the deity. In the afternoon, head to the Shimla State Museum, known for its extensive collection of Himachal Pradesh's cultural artifacts, paintings, and sculptures. Immerse yourself in the region's rich history and heritage. Spend the evening at leisure, exploring local markets and trying out traditional Himachali cuisine.

  • Tara Devi Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Shimla State Museum: INR 20 per person, 1-2 hours
Sunday, October 29: Mashobra and Naldehra

Embark on a day trip to Mashobra and Naldehra, two scenic destinations near Shimla. Morning visit to Mashobra, known for its lush forests and apple orchards. Enjoy a nature walk amidst the serene surroundings and breathe in the fresh mountain air. In the afternoon, head to Naldehra, home to a beautiful golf course set amidst thick cedar forests. Take a leisurely horse ride and soak in the tranquility of the surroundings. Capture some memorable family photographs amidst the picturesque landscapes.

  • Mashobra: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Naldehra Golf Course: INR 200 per person (golfing not included), 2-3 hours
Monday, October 30: Shimla Heritage Walk and Summer Hill

Embark on a heritage walk through the streets of Shimla, exploring its colonial architecture and historical landmarks. In the morning, visit the Gaiety Theatre, Christ Church, and other iconic buildings that showcase the city's rich heritage. Afterward, head to Summer Hill, a quaint suburb of Shimla. Enjoy a picnic amidst the lush greenery and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll along the serene trails and indulge in some birdwatching.

  • Heritage Walk: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Summer Hill: Free, 2-3 hours
Tuesday, October 31: Departure and Local Shopping

On your last day in Shimla, spend the morning exploring local markets and indulging in some souvenir shopping. Visit Lower Bazaar and Lakkar Bazaar, known for their handicrafts, woolen goods, and wooden artifacts. In the afternoon, bid farewell to Shimla and depart for your onward journey with beautiful memories of your family-friendly adventure in the Himalayan foothills.

  • Shopping in Lower Bazaar and Lakkar Bazaar: Varies, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When visiting Shimla with your family, don't miss the opportunity to explore the Chadwick Falls, located about 7 kilometers from the city center. Take a short trek through picturesque trails to reach this enchanting waterfall nestled amidst lush greenery. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Himalayan Bird Park, where you can spot a wide variety of colorful bird species. This tranquil sanctuary is perfect for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts. Locals also recommend visiting the Annandale Army Heritage Museum to learn about the region's military history and enjoy panoramic views of Shimla.

For checking hotel and flight prices, you can visit https://kayak.com/in?a=kan_252520_563153&p=v1&lc=en&url=%2Fstays.

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