10 Amazing Facts About Shimla You Probably Didn’t Know

Shimla is not only a beautiful hill station that is nestled amidst the beautiful and serene hills of the Himalayan state of Himachal Pradesh, but it is also a city which has its own story, charm and history. Shimla, a former summer capital of British India, still amazes its visitors with the colonial style architecture, low temperatures, and gorgeous views. Be it a history lover, nature lover or adventure seeker, there is a bit of everything at Shimla. 

In case you are thinking of vacation where you can mix scenic beauty with historic interest, then a Shimla tour package can be the best thing to do. Go Kite Tours Shimla Package will help you discover the best of this highland retreat at your own pace as it takes you to the hidden treasures and the landmark spots of this highland retreat. However, before you set off on your trip there are 10 wonderful facts about Shimla you should know that will make your trip even more wonderful.

Here are the 10 Amazing Facts About Shimla You Probably Didn’t Know

1. Kalka-Shimla Railway Kalka-Shimla Railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Kalka-Shimla narrow-gauge railway is one of the most well-known routes to Shimla, constructed by the British in 1903. It has more than 100 tunnels and 800 bridges, and there are spectacular views of the hills. The toy train ride is not just a scenic beauty but also an engineering masterpiece that has got the tag of the UNESCO World Heritage. Such train ride is part of the well-designed Shimla tour packages, and it is well deserved, as it is a lifetime experience of many tourists. 

2. Shimla Used to be the Summer Capital of British India

Shimla was the summer capital of British India during the colonial period due to its high altitude, and cool climate. British elite would leave Delhi every summer and change their base to Shimla to avoid the heat. The colonial past can still be traced in the architecture of the city, especially the Viceregal Lodge, Christ Church, and other ancient estates. During a Go Kite Tours Shimla Package, visits to these historical sites are sometimes guided. 

3. Shimla Sports One of the Oldest Ice Skating Rinks in Asia

The oldest natural ice skating rink in Asia is found in Shimla. This rink was established in 1920, and it is the hub of winter sports in Shimla and thousands of skating lovers visit this rink annually. The open air rink is open during the winter (December to February) and Shimla is an ideal place to visit by someone who wants to include winter activities in his/her Shimla tour package. 

4. Vehicle free Mall Road

The vehicle free Mall Road is one of the most impressive things about Shimla. The vibrant street of shops, cafes and colonial buildings is entirely pedestrianized which means visitors may enjoy their strolling without being shouted at by traffic. The evening walks, photography, and local cuisine tasting are the activities that can be performed there. Any quality Go Kite Tours Shimla Package will leave you with sufficient time to relax and stroll around Mall Road.

5. The Prestigious Bishop Cotton School is based here.

Founded in 1859, Bishop Cotton School is an old and renowned boarding school of Asia. This institution has a very rich history with some famous alumni such as author Ruskin Bond. You do not necessarily have to visit the campus as a student or a parent but a mere drive past this campus which is part of some tour packages of Shimla can make you feel the greatness of this campus and its history.

6. The Summer Festival of Shimla The Summer Festival is held in Shimla.

Shimla Summer Festival is one of the largest cultural events and is organized annually in June. It has folk dances, music concerts, flower shows and food stalls which makes it a colorful experience to the tourists. To the people who make a reservation to a Shimla tour package during this period, the festival is an opportunity to experience a close encounter with the local culture and celebrations.

7. The Legendary Ridge Is a level Open Area on a Hilltop

The ridge in Shimla is a large open space on top of the hill which is the center of the city. It is encircled with colonial buildings and pine trees and has panoramic views of the mountains that surround it. It is one of the places that would regularly have official ceremonies and festivals, and should not be missed by anyone going on a Go Kite Tours Shimla Package. 

8. It is a Famous Bollywood Shooting Place

Some of the Bollywood movies have been filmed in Shimla such as the famous 3 idiots, Bang Bang, and Jab we met. The scenic spots and old-world charm of the town are the favorite of film makers. Your shimla tour package would perhaps take you to some of these shoot sites in Bollywood movies to relive the cinematic nostalgia in case you are a Bollywood buff. 

9. The World Tallest Hanuman Statue is Here

The Jakhoo Temple of Shimla is a major religious place as well as the largest statue of Lord Hanuman in the world, which is 108 feet tall. The temple gives beautiful sceneries and a serene atmosphere and is situated on Jakhoo Hill. Spiritual pilgrims or people who want to see the panoramic view of the place should not miss this monumental site and Go Kite Tours Shimla Package takes care of that.

10. Shimla was Initially known as Shyamala

Shimla is named after Shyamala Devi who is an incarnation of the Hindu goddess Kali. Gradually, this name changed to a more anglicized form of Shimla, under the British rule. Being aware of this makes your visit more than a sightseeing one, it adds a spiritual and historical dimension to it. A heritage walk in Shimla tour package can make you learn this dark side of the town. 

Conclusion

Shimla is not only a beautiful hill station but a paradise of stories, culture and historical surprises. With its history of colonization and film reputation, as well as its engineering and spiritual highlights, Shimla offers plenty of layers to be revealed by every traveler. You can feel the magic whether you are walking at Mall Road, watching sunset at the Ridge, or sitting on Kalka-Shimla toy train. 

In case you are planning your next vacation, decide to get a Shimla tour package that will take care of all your travel requirements. The Go Kite Tours Shimla Package is a well planned tour that enables you to experience these fantastic facts in the most comfortable, convenient and cost effective way. Allow Shimla to amaze you at every corner and leave inexplicable memories in the bosom of the Himalayas.