7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary to Shimla

Monday October 2: Exploring Shimla's Heritage

Start your trip by visiting the Viceregal Lodge in Shimla. In the morning, explore this magnificent colonial building and its beautiful gardens, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. In the afternoon, head to The Mall, Shimla's main street, and stroll through the bustling shops and cafes. As the evening sets in, visit Christ Church, an architectural marvel, and attend the evening mass.

• Viceregal Lodge: Cost Estimate - INR 50, Time Spent - 2 hours
• The Mall: Cost Estimate - Variable, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Christ Church: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Tuesday October 3: Natural Wonders of Shimla

Start your day with a visit to the Jakhu Temple, located on the Jakhu Hill. Enjoy the panoramic views of Shimla from this serene temple. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Chadwick Falls, known for its cascading waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. In the evening, take a leisurely walk through the scenic Glen Forest and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

• Jakhu Temple: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Chadwick Falls: Cost Estimate - INR 20, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Glen Forest: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday October 4: Adventure at Kufri

Embark on a thrilling adventure by visiting Kufri, a hill station located near Shimla. Enjoy exciting activities like horse riding, skiing, and go-karting at Kufri Fun World. In the afternoon, explore the Himalayan Nature Park to get up close with various Himalayan wildlife species. End your day with a visit to Mahasu Peak for panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains.

• Kufri Fun World: Cost Estimate - INR 500, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Himalayan Nature Park: Cost Estimate - INR 30, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Mahasu Peak: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Café Sol in Shimla. This cozy café offers a wide range of breakfast options including delicious pancakes, omelettes, and sandwiches. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 rupees per person.
• For lunch, visit Baljees in Shimla. Known for its mouthwatering North Indian cuisine, this restaurant serves delectable dishes like butter chicken, biryani, and paneer tikka. The average cost for a meal here is about 400 rupees per person.
• For dinner, try out Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar in Shimla. This trendy restaurant offers a fine dining experience with its elegant ambiance and gourmet menu. Enjoy dishes like grilled salmon, lamb chops, and pasta. The average cost for a meal here is about 800 rupees per person.

Thursday October 5: Historical Sites in Shimla

Spend the day exploring Shimla's historical sites. Start with a visit to the Tara Devi Temple, located on a hilltop. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and panoramic views from the temple. In the afternoon, visit the Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex, a Victorian-era theater known for its architectural beauty and cultural performances. End your day with a leisurely walk along The Ridge, a popular gathering spot.

• Tara Devi Temple: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex: Cost Estimate - INR 100, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• The Ridge: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Friday October 6: Exploring Mashobra and Naldehra

Venture outside of Shimla to explore the scenic regions of Mashobra and Naldehra. Start with a visit to Craignano, a beautiful Italian-style villa surrounded by pine trees. Enjoy a picnic and take in the peaceful surroundings. In the afternoon, head to Naldehra Golf Course, one of the oldest and most picturesque golf courses in India. End your day with a visit to Tattapani, known for its hot springs believed to have medicinal properties.

• Craignano: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Naldehra Golf Course: Cost Estimate - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Tattapani: Cost Estimate - Variable, Time Spent - 2 hours

Saturday October 7: Exploring Shimla's Surroundings

Take a day trip to Shimla's surrounding areas. Start with a visit to the picturesque town of Kullu. Explore its markets and visit the famous Raghunath Temple. In the afternoon, head to Manali and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Rohtang Pass. End your day by visiting the Hadimba Devi Temple, known for its unique architecture.

• Kullu: Cost Estimate - Variable, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Rohtang Pass: Cost Estimate - INR 550, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Hadimba Devi Temple: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Sunday October 8: Shopping and Relaxation

Spend your last day in Shimla shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs. Explore the shops along The Mall and Lower Bazaar, where you can find traditional Himachali items. In the afternoon, relax and unwind at one of Shimla's beautiful parks, such as Annandale or Summer Hill. Enjoy the serene surroundings before bidding farewell to Shimla.

• The Mall and Lower Bazaar: Cost Estimate - Variable, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Parks (Annandale, Summer Hill, etc.): Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider visiting the Himalayan Bird Park, located near The Ridge. It is home to various indigenous and migratory bird species and offers a great opportunity for birdwatching. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Kamna Devi Temple, tucked away in the thick forests of Prospect Hill. The temple provides stunning views of Shimla and is ideal for a peaceful retreat.

Hotel and flight prices for Shimla can be found here.