4-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Shimla, December 8-11, 2023
Friday, December 8: Exploring Shimla
In the morning, start your day by visiting the Jakhu Temple, located on top of Jakhu Hill. Enjoy the scenic views of Shimla from this highest point in the city. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit the historical Shimla Ridge, where you can stroll around and admire the Victorian architecture. In the evening, take a leisurely walk on Mall Road, known for its shops, cafes, and street food stalls.
Cafe Sol: A charming cafe located on Mall Road, offering a delicious breakfast with a variety of options. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
The Devicos: A popular restaurant near Shimla Ridge, serving a range of Indian and international dishes for lunch. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday, December 9: Nature and Adventure
Start your day with a visit to Kufri, a scenic hill station near Shimla. Enjoy horseback riding and take a thrilling adventure on the yak ride at Kufri Fun World. In the afternoon, visit the Himalayan Nature Park to see exotic wildlife, including snow leopards and musk deer. End the day with a visit to the beautiful Chadwick Falls, located amidst lush green forests.
Kufri Fun World: Estimated Cost - INR 300-500 per person, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Himalayan Nature Park: Estimated Cost - INR 20-50 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
For a delicious breakfast, head to Cafe Sol located near Mall Road. They offer a variety of breakfast options including pancakes, omelets, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about Rs. 250 per person.
For a hearty lunch, visit Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar situated in Chaura Maidan. They serve a mix of Indian and international cuisines with a delightful ambiance. The average cost for a lunch meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at Cecil Restaurant located inside the Oberoi Cecil hotel. They offer a fine dining experience with a menu comprising of Indian and continental delicacies. The average cost for a dinner meal is about Rs. 1500 per person.
Sunday, December 10: Cultural Delights
Start your day by exploring the Viceregal Lodge, a magnificent colonial-era building with beautiful gardens. In the afternoon, visit the State Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of Himachal Pradesh. End the day with a visit to the Tara Devi Temple, situated on a hilltop and offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Viceregal Lodge: Estimated Cost - INR 20-30 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
State Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 10-30 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
For breakfast, head to Café Simla Times, a charming café known for its delicious breakfast options such as fluffy pancakes and hearty omelettes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, try the famous Baljees, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Himachali cuisine. Savor dishes like Madra and Chha Gosht while enjoying the cozy ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
For dinner, indulge in a gastronomic experience at the Indian Coffee House, known for its traditional Indian dishes and warm hospitality. Try the mouth-watering Butter Chicken or the aromatic Biryani. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Monday, December 11: Relaxation and Shopping
Spend your morning relaxing and enjoying the serene atmosphere of Annandale, a picturesque meadow with a golf course and picnic spots. Later, explore the bustling Lower Bazaar, where you can shop for local handicrafts, woollen items, and souvenirs. Don't forget to taste the famous street food in Shimla. In the late afternoon, bid farewell to Shimla with unforgettable memories.
Annandale: Estimated Cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Café Simla Times: Enjoy a cozy breakfast at Café Simla Times, known for its delicious breakfast options such as fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Hide Out Café: For lunch, head to Hide Out Café, a hidden gem in Shimla offering a variety of cuisines including Indian, Italian, and Chinese. Try their lip-smacking wood-fired pizzas and delectable pasta dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
The Devicos: Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at The Devicos, a fine dining restaurant known for its elegant ambiance and mouthwatering continental dishes. Don't miss their signature steaks and seafood delicacies. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path experiences, head to Mashobra, a nearby town known for its apple orchards and nature walks. The serene surroundings make it perfect for a family picnic. Another local favorite is the Himachal State Museum, offering an in-depth look into the art, culture, and history of the region. Don't miss the chance to try authentic Himachali cuisine at small local restaurants, such as Madra and Dham dishes.
For more information about hotel and flight prices in Shimla, you can check here.