Chapter – 1

INTRODUCTION

Shimla, the summer capital of the British India, is situated

at a height of 2,196 metres. While the British have left the
echoes linger on. today, its well developed facilities, easy
accessibility and many attractions make it one of India's
most popular resorts. In the Himalyan lower ranges, it is
surrounded by pine, cedar, oak and rhododendron forests.
Shimla is located towards the southern parts of the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.
Now It is the state capital and is at a distance of 343 km from Delhi, 260 km from Manali,
and 119 km from Chandigarh. The temperature range is not very high and the maximum
temperature rarely crosses 25°C during summers. Winters are cold due to the chilly winds
from the upper Himalayas.
Shimla
The British discovered Shimla in the form of a little village in 1819. Until then, it was a part
of the Nepalese kingdom. It was during Lord William Bentinck's time that Shimla was truly
acquired by the Government of India. The British persuaded the local Raja to part with the
land in 1830, and the settlement became the subcontinent's most fashionable summer resort.
In 1864, Shimla was declared the summer capital of India. After the independence of India,
Shimla became the capital of Punjab until 1966, when it came under Himachal Pradesh.
Ridge: The Ridge is one place in Shimla where you must spend at least a couple of hours in a
day, basking in the lazy sun. You won't be alone though, for the Ridge is perpetually
swarming with the young and the old, out for a chitter-chatter stroll, a plate-full of chaat or a
few shutterbug clicks of poses against the distant peaks.
Lakkad Bazaar: Find this world of wooden marvels right below the ridge. Lakkad Bazaar
offers anything and everything you can imagine carved out of wood. From key chains,
walking sticks, massagers, toys and jewellery boxes to sailor's wheels, planters and stationary
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holders - Lakkad Bazaar gives you plenty to pick from and take back home for friends and
relatives, without flattening your wallets.
St Michael’s: St Michael's Cathedral is a stained-glass masterpiece. Once considered the
finest cathedral in India, it depicts Hope, Faith, Patience and Humility.
Institute of Advanced Studies: Built in 1888, the institute was originally the Viceregal
Lodge. It's a magnificent English Renaissance grey-stone edifice set admist beautiful gardens
and lawns. Entry is by ticket. The grounds are open for visitors only on Sundays.
Tara Devi Temple: Situated atop a hill, Tara Devi leaves visitors gasping at the panoramic
views. Built amidst oak and rhododendrons, it is accessible by road, rail and by foot.
SITES NEARBY
Naldhera: Naldhera, with its brilliant green landscape
and dappled sunlight, is a recreational getaway 22 km
from Shimla. You'll find charming log huts and also
regular rooms. The Golf Course and the cedar forest (for its
heavenly treks and pretty picnic spots) are the main
attractions here. The log huts (HPTDC) cost between Rs
800 and Rs 1,000 (Tel: 487 809). The nearby Golf Glade Hotel offers rooms at the same cost.
Chail: Visit the highest cricket pitch and the highest polo ground in the world in Chail. Once
the summer capital of Patiala, the town is worth a day's tour. Located 45 km from Shimla (via
Kufri).
Fagu: Situated along the National Highway, about 22 km from Shimla, Fagu offers pleasant
views of the distant Himalayas along with some fun treks. Include a trip to the Deshumata
Temple in your visit to Fagu. You will be lured to the apple orchards simply by their sweet
fragrance.
Kufri: Kufri is a half-hour's drive out of Shimla (12 km).
Loaded with hundreds of picnic and look-out points, it
even has a deer park. Something else you'll find in
abundance here are the quaint souvenir shops. The Kufri
slopes are a hot favourite with snow seekers.

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Narkanda: Narkanda, 64 km from Shimla, offers wonderful slopes for skiing. At an
elevation of 2708 m, it has dense pine forests. Hatu peak, 8 km from Narkanda, provides a
striking panorama of the plains below.
Sarahan: Sarahan is a small village worth visiting. It provides a spectacular view of
Shrikhand Mahadev (5224 m) and hiking opportunities to the nearby villages such as Ranwin
and Bashal Peak. The Bhimakali temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, is the finest example
of Himachali architecture.
Tattapani: Tattapani (STD Code 0117), 51 km from Shimla, is a spot well known for hot
sulfurous springs.

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 Chapter – 2

PLACE FOR ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Shimla
In Shimla one can go to Kullu from Shimla And Sarahan to
Sangla for a Trekking Some other treks are to the
Shalipeak, to the Kullu valley, Shimla to Chail, Shimla to
Junga and Shimla to Tattapani. Angling for trout can be
done on the river Pabbar, near Rohru. Skiing is possible at
Narkanda and Kufri (January–mid-March). Naldehra
also offers a well-groomed nine-hole golf course.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
By Air: Shimla Airport is 23 kms from the city connected by daily flights from Delhi and
Kullu.
By Rail: Broadguage Railway line upto Kalka connecting Delhi,Calcutta and Amritsar.
Kalka to Shimla (95 kms.) by Narrow gauge railway.
By Road : Well connected with Kalka. Chandigarh,Delhi, Amritsar and Jammu etc.
Shimla( Places to Stay)
There are so many hotels & guest house are located in Shimla which suits to the budge of
every Travellers. The Mall is the best site for entertainment.
Shimla(Facts & Figure)
Languages : Hindi, Himachali, English
Best Time to Visit : May–July and September–November

HISTORY

The History of Shimla dates back to the 19th century when it was founded by the British in
the year 1819 after the Gurkha war. During that period, it was most popular for the temple of

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Hindu Goddess Shyamala Devi. In 1822, the first British summer home was constructed by
Scottish civil servant Charles Pratt Kennedy. Shimla became the summer capital of the
British Raj during the latter half of the 19th century and the soldiers of the British army,
merchants and civil servants dropped in here to get relief from the scorching heat of the
plains. A remarkable event took place in the history of Shimla when the Kalka-Shimla
railway line was constructed in the year 1906 that significantly added to its quick
accessibility and it gained immense popularity. Apart from this, Shimla was declared as
capital of the undivided state of Punjab in the year 1871 and remained so until Chandigarh
(the present-day capital of Punjab) was given the status of the region’s capital. Himachal
Pradesh got separated from undivided Punjab in the year 1971 with Shimla becoming its
capital.

You will come across several British structures in Shimla such as the Viceregal lodge,
Auckland House, Gorton Castle, Peterhoff house, and Gaiety Theatre that are the reminders
of the colonial times.

Best Season, Climate and Clothing

The summer season in Shimla starts from April and lasts till June, with maximum
temperature of 28° C and a minimum temperature of 15° C. For the summer season, light
woolens/cottons are recommended.

Winter season lasts from November to February and the temperature rises to a maximum of
8° C and a low of 0° C or even lower. For the winters, heavy woolens are essential.

Touristplacesinindia.com is your authentic travel guide on Shimla on which you can find the
best inputs about Shimla and also the various tourist attractions in Shimla.

Shimla District lies between the longitude 77o-0" and 78o-19" east and latitude 30o-45" and
31o-44" north. It is bounded by Mandi and Kullu in the north, Kinnaur in the east, the state of
Uttaranchal  in the south, Sirmaur, district in the west. The elevation of the district ranges
from 300 to 6000 metres.  The topology of the district is rugged and tough. Shimla district

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derives its name from Shimla town which was once a small village. Shimla district in its
present form came into existence from 1st Sept,1972 on the reorganisation of the districts of
the state.

History of Shimla goes back to the period of Anglo-Gurkha war in the beginning of 19th
century.  In 1804 the Gurkhas , who had suffered a severe defeat at the hands of the Sikhs at
the battle of Kangra, a hill fortress about sixty miles from Shimla, where according to some
accounts they lost thousand of men in the fight and many others from disease, commenced to
ravage the states and hills surrounding Shimla. Gurkhas built many forts around Shimla. One
of these strongholds, the Jagatgarh  fortress, was the origin of the modern Jutogh, the well
known military cantonment adjoining Shimla. By 1808 the invaders had conquered  all the
fortified posts between the Jamuna and Satluj, and from their capital Arki began their ruthless
rule over the neighbouring  hill states, untill at length the people in their wretchedness
appealed to the British for help. A small British force under Major General 'Sir David
Ochterlony' was despatched to liberate the hill men from Gurkhas. Majority of hill chiefs
responded to the call and joined the British forces. The rivals  were engaged in the toughest
battle at 3750 ft high Ramgarh fort at Nalagarh. A decisive battle took place near the fort at
Malaon in which superior guns of the British overpowered the enemy. The battle of Malaon
on 15th May 1815 ended the dream of the Gurkhas, to rule over this part of the land for any
longer. After few days, an official declaration was made according to which all Chieftains

who had joined British in expelling the Gurkhas were restored with their land under the
British protection. The maharaja of Patiala who has also rendered invaluable services to the
British was rewarded with land in the neighbourhood of the area now comprising Shimla.
After the defeat of Gurkhas they were forced to sign the 'Treaty of Sanjauli' . The company
retained the strategic forts of Sabathu, Kotgarh, Ramgarh and Sandoch.  

Present day Shimla District comprises of 19 erstwhile hill states mainly Balson, Bushahr,
Bhaji and Koti, Darkoti, Tharoch & Dhadi,Kumharsain, Khaneti & Delath, Dhami, Jubbal ,
Keothal, Rawingarh, Ratesh, Sangri.

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Bushahr was one of the oldest of the hill states after Kashmir in the Western Himalayas.
According to one legend .the Bushahr dynasty was founded by 'Pradhuman', the son of Lord
Krishna. In order to marry the daughter of Banasur, the local chief of shonitpur(Sarahan),
Pradhuman is said to have come to that place and after the death of Banasur in an encounter
with him, he became the chief of Bushar and Kinnaur regions, since Banasur has no son.
According to C.F.Kennedy , Bushar was founded by Danbar Singh an immigrant Rajput from
Deccan in 1412 A.D. In 1914  Britishers recognised  Padam Singh as legitimate heir and was
crowned Raja of Rampur Bushahr. Ultimately in March, 1948  Rampur Bushahr became part
and parcel of  province of Himachal Pradesh. 

Jubbal one of the Shimla Hill States with an area of 288 Sq miles was originally tributary to
Sirmaur, but after Gurkha war, it became independent. Raja Karam Ch2and was the founder
of the Jubbal State. Jubbal merged with the Indian Union after independence and became a
part of Himachal Pradesh on 15th April, 1948. at the time of merger 'Dig Vijay Singh ' was
the ruler of the state.

Shimla District in its present form came into existence from 1st September 1972 on the
reorganisation of the districts of the state. After the reorganisation , the erstwhile Mahasu
district lost its entity and its major portion was merged with Shimla.  Shimla district derives
its name from Shimla town, the district headquarters and now state capital of Himachal
Pradesh

The Shimla District comprises of  7 Sub-Divisions,  12 Tehsils  and  5 Sub Tehsils.

Shimla is the biggest hill station in India. It’s no surprise because it was the summer capital
of British India. Post-independence Shimla has been the Honeymooner’s Paradise in north
India.

For my first trip to Shimla, I took Kalka Mail from

Delhi to Kalka. After an overnight journey, I reached
the sleepy little station of Kalka around 5.30 in the

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morning. From Kalka I had one of the most beautiful train journeys one can have. The
journey, some 90-KM long, was done in a toy train. It was November 8, 2003, just a day
before that railway line was about to complete its 100 years. I was travelling in the same
train, which was supposed to make the historic journey next day, marking the hundred years
of this wonderful gift of British India. You can blame them for a lot of bad things they did to
India during their rule here but you have to give it the firangs (As British rulers were called
then), they took the trains to the kind of places where Indians have not been able to even 60
years after getting independence. The toy train passes through some 103 tunnels, one of them,
at Barog, is more than a kilometer long. That’s not all. It uses more than 800 bridges to reach
Shimla!

My train, Shivalik Deluxe Express, stopped at Barog - a beautiful little station. The stop was
for 10 minute where most of the passengers got down while catering staff collected breakfast
to be served on the train. It was a lovely experience; early morning sunshine made me feel in
a different world.

The train was full of honeymooners, as it was

marriage season in India. Some of the couples
seemed in a hurry to get lost in each other’s arms.
Since it was a toy train that has small coaches,
people were seated pretty close to each other.

I arrived at the Shimla station around 10.30 am.

Starting from 660 mts at Kalka, I was now about
2000 mts above sea level. Immediately I was surrounded by Kashmiri potters. I negotiated
with one of them and he helped me climb out of the station where I was met by the cab
drivers. After bargaining, one of them drove me to my hotel. After checking into the hotel, a
Raj-era building, I took shower and had brunch. I checked with the hotel manager about the
places I could see in the remaining day. He suggested I walk up to the Mall Road, that
quintessential Raj left-over. Acting on his advice I decided to walk to the Mall. I was
surprised to see so many tall deodar trees on both sides of the road before I reached the actual

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hustle and bustle of the Mall. It was same as the other Mall Roads. All kind of eateries asking
you to ‘come and try’ the delicious fare. I went inside a restaurant, which served north Indian,
south Indian, Chinese food and whatever you can think of. To be frank, it was awful. I
ordered a pizza and that did not look like the pizzas one had seen or eaten before! After that
misadventure with food I walked up to the Ridge. It has, for years, been used for all kinds of
functions. During British rule, it was used to hold military parades. Sahebs and memsahebs
used to enjoy the romantic evenings. There, you even have a place called Scandal Point, thus
named because it is said that some officer’s wife had run away with an Indian prince from
that very point!

Government of India Industrial Policy

Small Scale Sector

Credit Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme

Prime Minister's Rojgar Yojna

Reimbursement Scheme for Acquiring ISO 9000

Certification

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 Chapter-3

TOURIST PLACES

The splendid hill town, Shimla is a capital of Himachal Pradesh, India. The sprawling town is
situated among the pine-clad hills of Himalaya. City gives glimpses of colonial charm with
old buildings and the mall. The city was established by the British at an altitude of 2,213 and
used as summer capital of British India. The Mall Road is a main hang out place and center
of all major activities in the city. In and around the city has are various place to enjoy and
fascinate. Tourist can find a panoramic view of the city from Shimla’s highest point Jakhoo
hill. Glen Forest is wonderful picnic spot for hang out. Chadwick Falls and Prospect Hill are
other popular picnic spots near Shimla. Sankat Mochan Temple (dedicated to the Lord
Hanuman), Taradevi Temple (dedicated to Goddess Taradevi) and Drolma (dedicated to
Tibetan goddess) are scared places in Shimla. Except these there are many other reasons
those attract the tourist around the year. City is very well connected to the other parts of the
country through plane, rail and road transports.

Shimla is perhaps the most picturesque town that you would come across on your tour of
north India. During the British era, Shimla was the summer retreat and was renowned as the
“Queen of the Hills”. Its topography is characterized by undulating hills, lush green valleys,
garrulous rivers, dense woods and a pleasant climate that makes it an ideal getaway from the
din and rush of the plains. The old world charm still comes to life here as it is dotted with a
number of colonial buildings and churches that also accentuate the exquisiteness of this town.
Besides, you will also encounter several tourist attractions in Shimla that are worth catching a
glimpse such as:

HIMACHAL STATE MUSEUM & LIBRARY:

This museum is indisputably one of the prime tourist attractions in Shimla and remains open
to the public except on Mondays and public holidays. This museum houses a fine collection

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of antique sculptures, paintings, coins, photos and other items not only from the state but also
outside it. You will also find a library here which houses several historical books and
manuscripts.

Viceregal Lodge & Botanical Gardens:  Also famous as “Rashtrapati Niwas”, it is a

spectacular building located on the Observatory Hills and was formerly the residence of the
British Viceroy Lord Dufferin. Its construction was accomplished in the year 1888 and every
brick for the building was carried by mules according to the sources. The massive six-story
building is surrounded by well manicured gardens and lawns.

Indian Institute of Advanced Studies: Located in the Viceregal Lodge, it was constructed
in the year 1888. The kind of architecture is English Renaissance with stonework of the
walling in light blue limestone and the wrought stonework being done in sandstone in a
stunning light gray shade. The grounds are open to the public only on Sunday and you need a
ticket in order to enter.

The Ridge: This place is an open space in the heart of town and offers outstanding views of
the distant mountain ranges. The two prominent landmarks of Shimla, the Neo-Gothic
structure of Christ Church and the new Tudor Library building are the other attractions
located here.

The Mall: It is the key shopping centre of Shimla with restaurants, clubs, banks, bars, Post
Offices, tourist offices and most of town’s highlights. The place becomes breathtakingly
romantic in the evening offering wonderful views of the lit up city below. You can laze
around around the Mall and spend some intimate moments with close ones. It is the most
significant among the tourist attractions in Shimla.

Summer Hill: It is a scenic spot located near Shimla at an altitude of 1,283 meters and is
much visited by the tourists. The legendary Indian leader, Mahatma Gandhi during his
sojourn in Shimla spent some time in the elegant Georgian House of Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur
located here.

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Glen: It is a charming picnic spot and is a 4 km walk through the dense woods located at a
height of 1, 830 meters. You can also go for picnic at this spot since it is completely secluded
and tranquil.

Tara Devi Temple: Among the various places to visit in Shimla, this temple occupies a
crucial place and is also of great importance for the pilgrims. It is located on top of a hill
facing Shimla and commands panoramic vistas of Shimla. It is also an ideal picnic spot
surrounded by thick forest of oak and rhododendron.

Find useful travel information regarding tourist spots in Shimla in touristplacesinindia.com

that also offers valuable inputs about the tourist destinations of India.

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 Chapter-4

TEMPLES OF SHIMLA

” Shri Sankat Mochan”  temple is situated at a distance of about 5 K.m from Shimla and is
located at Taradevi on the Kalka- Shimla National Highway. This temple is very easily
approachable and is one of the most sought after site to be visited not only by the devotees
and pilgrims but also by the tourists of all age groups visiting Shimla, the Hill capital of
Himachal Pradesh.

The history of the temple dates back to the late 1950’s, when Baba Neeb Karori Ji Maharaj
visited this tranquil and serene site surrounded by lush green forests , emerald meadows, the
magestic lofty mountains in the background which offered a very soothing and meditative
atmosphere stirring the soul to enjoy the bliss of nature, a gift from god to all of us. Baba
Neeb Karori Ji Maharaj stayed here in a hut for about ten days and being deeply fascinated
and charmed with the place expressed his keen desire for a Hanuman temple to be
constructed at this very location .Baba’s devotees the than Lt. Governor of Himachal Pradesh
late Raja Bajrang Bahadur Bhadari and Sh. Bhagwan Sahai shouldered    the   responsibility
to fulfill their Guru’s desire and began with the construction of the temple in the year 1962
and finally it was consecrated on the 21 st of June,1966, What began as a small temple, by

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god’s grace and blessings has acquired great dimensions and today the entire temple complex
is sprawled over 18.8 bighas of land owned by Shri Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir.  

At present the temple complex facilitates the people to worship and pay their obeisance to
different deities as the complex comprises of Lord Rama and Hanuman temple, Lord Shiva
Temple , Navgrah Temple ,Baba Neeb Karori Ji Maharaj Temple and a beautiful Ganesha
Temple portraying the architecture of the south.  

The Temple complex also includes a three storey building which is partly used as the
“Langer Hall” where on every Sunday all the visitors are served with prashad / Langer
Below the langer hall are the “Marriage Halls” which are rented out on nominal charges to
the parties who intend to ceremonize marriages here and it is a regular feature of the temple
throughout the year. The other half of this building houses the residential area given to the
priests and the domestic staff working in the temple. For the convenience and facilities of
the visitors, the temple offers a ‘Prasad’ shop and also has a Govt Ayurvedic Dispensary.
The complex also has provision of thirty neat and clean well maintained toilets.  

“ Ma Bhagwati Tara Devi” temple is located on Tarav Parvat in the western side of shimla
Town about 15 Km from Shimla situated by the side of Kalka- Shimla National Highway
near Shoghi. The road meandering uphill through the sweet smelling pine forests and lush
green meadows with the cool gentle breeze touching one softly infusing a freshness and
vigor in the devotees, pilgrims and tourists visiting this holy shrine.

The location of the temple on the Hill top makes it appear that the goddess Ma Tara Devi
seems to keep everyone under the protective gaze ,showering innumerable blessings on her
worshippers. The picturesque view from the temple is indeed breath taking and captivating
with the superb panorama of the lofty and majestic forested mountains around, which offers
a calm peaceful and tranquil countryside, a site that has a soothing and rejuvenating effect,
being away from the din, pollution and the taxing effect of a fast urban life style.

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 The history of this temple dates back to
about 250 years when this temple was
built here. There is a belief that the
goddess Tara was brought to Himachal
Pradesh all the way from the eastern
state of Bengal . Hundreds of years
ago a king from the Sen Dynasty visited this area. This king had brought his family deity in
the form of a small gold Idol encased in a locket which he always wore around his upper
arm. For many years the idol remained encased but in the 96th generation of sen dynasty ,
Raja Bhupendra Sen one day had an unusual experience while hunting in the dense forest of
Juggar , near by the present temple, where he had a vision of his holy family deity
goddess :”Ma Tara” along with her Dwarpal Bhairav and Hanuman Ji , who expressed her
keen desire to be unveiled before the people. The Raja immediately donated 50 bighas of
land on the name of Ma Tara and got constructed a temple there, in which a wooden idol of
the Goddess was installed in accordance with Vaishnav traditions . Later on Raja Balbir
Sen of the same dynasty had a dream in which the Goddess expressed her desire to be
installed on the hill top of Tarav Parvat. The Raja on the advise of one of his pandits named
Bhawani Dutt got a beautiful Idol prepared out of ‘Ashtadhatu’ from one Gusanwu artisan at
his capital Junga and carried it over an Elephant named ‘Shankar’ and had it installed in
the Vikrami era, 1825 on the Hill Top of Tarav Parvat , where it stands in all majesty and
grandeur even today. The Sen dynasty of the erstwhile Keonthal State till date is carrying
on with the age old tradition of worshipping their family deity Ma Tara on Ashtami during
Shardiya Navratras each year when a fair is also held in the same day in the temple complex.
The wrestling is an age old tradition of this fair every year.

Shimla city. This temple is very easily approachable and is one of the most sought after site
to be visited not only by the devotees and pilgrims but also by the tourists of all age groups
visiting Shimla, the Hill capital of Himachal Pradesh.

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 According to mythology , during
the battle between lord Rama and
Ravana   at Lanka ,Lakshmana the
younger brother of lord Rama was
injured from an arrow from
Meghnad and turned senseless. In
order to save his life ,when lord
Hanuman  was moving towards Himalaya to get sanjeewani herb , all  of a sudden he saw
Yaaku sage on Jakhu mountain in penance .This place was named Jakhu , after the same
sage .In order to gather more details about sanjeewani , lord Hanuman landed here . As a
result of which Jakhu mountain which earlier was much  higher ,half sunk into earth .After
getting all the clarifications about the herb , lord Hanuman started his journey towards mount
Dron . However , his friends accompanying him  felt asleep  here due to  long distant tiring
journey . When they woke up , all of them were sad on not finding lord Hanuman with them .
All of them  decided to stay here .Their successors can be seen roaming in this area even
today . Lord Hanuman had even promised the sage Yaaku to meet him during his back
journey .However due to shortage of time as a result of wickedness of Kaalnemi , he had to
return back to Lanka via shorter route .The waiting sage  got very sad .At the same time lord
Hanuman appeared before the sage and told him the reason for not keeping his promise
.When lord Hanuman disappeared , an idol of lord Hanuman appeared by itself and is present
in the temple till date . This temple of lord Hanuman was constructed by the Yaaku sage in
remembrance of lord Hanuman. 

The Bheemakali Temple , reputed to be at least 800 years old, is dedicated to Goddess Durga
or Bheemakali and is considered one of the significant Shakti Peeths of Shaivite Hindus. The
temple is Tibetan in its architectural style, with Buddhist and Hindu influences and bronze
statues of both religions in the shrines. It has slanted slate roofs, golden towers, pagodas and
a carved silver door. Dussehra is celebrated in a grand way at both the Bheemakali Temple
and in the village of Sarahan , with animal sacrifice playing a big role in the festivities.
Bheemakali Temple regarded as one of the fifty one sacred Shaktipeeths.

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Hatkoti Temple

A marvelous example of hill

architecture, the temple
complex at Sarahanis set
against the incredibly
beautiful backdrop of high
ranges and forested slopes.
Built in a mixture of the
Hindu and Buddhists styles,
it was the temple of Bushair rulers of Rampur (Shimla). The palaces of the royal family are
adjacent to the temple. From Sarahan there is a view of the Srikhand Peak , revered as the
home of goddess Lakshami.

LANGUAGE OF SHIMLA

Shimla has a multilingual, cosmopolitan character. People speak and understand both Hindi
and English. Punjabi and Pahari languages are also spoken and understood in and around
Shimla.

FESTIVALS OF SHIMLA

SHIMLA FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

Stunning locales, breathtaking beauty and a rich legacy

of cultural heritage and tradition - this is what one gets
to see in the festivals and fairs of Simla. One should
experience the amazingly lively and colorful celebration
of all major fairs and festivals in Shimla while in India.
Shimla not only celebrates its own local fairs and
festivals, but also enthusiastically celebrates all the festivals that are celebrated all over India.
Read on further for more information on the major fairs & festivals in Shimla.

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Ice Skating Carnival Shimla: Shimla is India's favorite winter destination and what makes it
truly special is the snowfall that it receives during the winters. Most tourists visit Shimla
during the months of December, January and February to indulge in the lively ice sports like
skiing, ice-skating or simple throwing snowballs!
Rhyali Festival Shimla: Celebrated during the rainy season in Shimla, Rhyali festival is of
much importance over here. Since most people here depend on agriculture to earn their
livelihood, the rains are an absolute must. Rhyali festival is celebrated to keep the rain Gods
happy so that the agricultural produce does not get affected.
Shimla Summer Festival: The best reason to visit Shimla during summers has to be the
famous Summer Festival that is held every year in the month of May. This famous festival is
a riot of colors and festivity and is celebrated on a grand scale. The Summer Festival in Simla
is a beautiful amalgamation of various talented people of India who make it an event that is
remembered for a long time to come.
Baisakhi: One of the most important festivals celebrated in Shimla is Baisakhi. It is
celebrated on the first day of the month of Baisakh (mid - April). Baisakhi is called as Bissu
or Bisha in Shimla. It is celebrated just before the onset of the harvest season.
Bhoj Fair: This fair is held in the month of November for three days in Shimla. This fair
attracts thousands of people from Shimla who come to pay respect to the presiding deity
known as Devta Bansor.
Christmas: Shimla has a white winter and Christmas is celebrated with much joy and fervor
over here. The true spirit of Christmas is experienced over here, as the place is famous for a
beautiful church that is decorated beautifully during Christmas. Shimla also receives heavy
snowfall which makes it all the more fun to celebrated Christmas.
Diwali: Like anywhere else in India, Diwali is celebrated in Shimla with much devotion and
enthusiasm. Not just the Hindus, even the local native people of this place celebrate Diwali.
The whole of Shimla lights up and it looks no less than a wonderland.
Lavi Fair: One of the most important fairs of Shimla, Lavi fair is celebrated as a tribute to
the signing of a mutual trade treaty between Tibet and the former Bushahr state. Many

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cultural shows are organized and the main focus is on small-scale trade and business among
the shepherds and other locals.
Lohri: Lohri is a festival that is celebrated to mark the beginning of the sowing season. In
January every year, the skyline of Shimla lights up by numerous bonfires that are lit across
the place. The first Rabi crop of the season is sown during Lohri.
Navaratri: The festival of Navaratri is celebrated with much joy and fervor in Shimla. Every
year, Dusshera is celebrated at the end of Navaratri festival and huge effigies of the demon
king Ravana are burnt to mark the triumph of good over evil.
Sipi Fair: This fair is celebrated in the month of May in Sihpur as
an honor to Sip Devta. The fair is very popular among people and
thousands throng the Sipi fair to participate. The fair has been
celebrated since a long time and the Rana of Koti used to be the
main spectator in the fair. Many cultural programs are organized
which include archery competition, magic shows, jugglers, acrobats,
etc.

No festivities for apple growers

SHIMLA, Oct 5 — The apple growers of Himachal Pradesh have nothing to cheer
themselves as festival season is coming close. The failure of the apple crop this season has
completely shattered their economy.

Stress on armed forces' role in nation building

SHIMLA, Oct 5 — Lt-Gen Y.M. Bammi (retired) said here today that the Indian armed
forces were not only defending the country's frontiers but were also playing an important role
in nation building

PLACES OF SHIMLA :

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 Shimla is the capital town of Himachal Pradesh. The town of
Shimla is built over several hills and connecting ridges. The
important hills are Jakhu ( 2,455 meters ), Prospect Hill ( 2,328
meters ), Observatory Hill ( 2,350 meters ), Elysigim Hill ( 2,466
meters ) and Summer Hill ( 2,300 meters ). Shimla is situated in the North-West Himalayas
and was the Summer Capital of India during the British rulling era. This town is spread over
the ridge measuring about 12 km. It is perhaps the biggest hill station in the world, located at
an altitude of 2,421 meters above sea level.

Tourism in Shimla

A place of peace and pleasure, Shimla is a tourist resort in real

sense of the world. The best season of the year here is autumn
but the early spring runs a close second. Shimla is connected
with air, rail, and road traffics. Shimla under snow is a
wonderful sight and it offers the unique attraction of an open air
ice skating rink. Also the legendary Ridge under snow and
snow sports at Kufri make Shimla a wonderful winter holiday
resort.

Shimla combines the luxury of being a hill station as well as a

city. Tourism in Shimla is advanturous and delightful as Shimla
offers a lot of beautiful places to explore and a lot of tourism
related activities. The main attraction of tourism in shimla is the The Mall and the Ridge.
These two places are the most favorable places in Shimla. Kufri and Narkanda offers great
opportunity for tourism in Shimla because of snow covered terrains and skiing in winter
season. Britishers called Shimla "the queen of hill stations" and staying true to this saying,
Shimla and its nearby areas are heavens for any kind of tourism related activities. Tourism in
Shimla offers everlasting memories of rocking and quality time spent in the heart of
Himalayas.

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 A number of fairs and festival are celebrated in Shimla i.e.
bhahara fair, bhoj fair, lavi fair, mahasu fair, sipi fair, summer
festival. winter sports festival and ruhru festival, among which the
Summer Festival and Winter Sports Festival are the most
famous ones. Summer festival in Shimla is celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm, a great
number of artists from all over India come to Shimla during this time and perform in Summer
festival. Shimla has a number of famous temples i.e. jakhu temple, tara devi temple, kali bari
temple, sankat mochan temple and kamna devi temple which offer a great experience to
tourists. Especially the view of surrounding hills and sunset from Jakhu Temple is
breathtaking.

There are some beautiful lakes in Shimla i.e. karali lake,

chander naun lake and tanu jubbal lake which add to the
beauty of Shimla. Shimla is rich in wild life and there are a
number of wildlife sanctuaries in Shimla i.e. shimla water
catchment sanctuary, daranghati sanctuary, chail samctuary,
churadhar sanctuary and majathal sanctuary which provide a great experience to wildlife
lovers.

There are a number of famous and beautiful tourist places

in Shimla i.e. jakhu hill, the mall, the ridge, kufri, naldera,
annadale, narkanda, indian institute of advanced study, the
state museum, fagu, mashobra, summer hill, glen, tattapani
etc. All these places are blessed with natural beauty and
offer a memorable experience to tourists. Some of these places turn to winter sports heavens
during winter time.

Shimla with its unsurpassed scenic beauty and overall grand experience of tourism in
Shimla of many kinds is sure the prime show place of Himachal. A must visiting place where
there is no limit to fun and enjoyment.

Shimla Famous Places

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Jakhu Hill : ( 2,455 meters ) 2 km. from town. This is the highest peak of Shimla and offers
panoramic view of the town and the mountains. 'Hanuman Temple of Jakhu' is very famous.
According to legend, Hanumanji took some rest here when he was carrying a hill of
'Sanjiwani Booti' ( a herb to save the life of Lakshmana, the younger brother of Lord Rama ).

The Mall and the Ridge : Most of Shimla's landmarks are located here. The Mall further
joins the Ridge at the ‘Scandal Point' of Kipling's Shimla, where a statue of the nationalist
leader Lala Lajpat Rai has been erected.This is the main shopping centre of Shimla with
restaurants. This is especially pleasant in the evenings when the views and lights are
wonderful. The Gaiety Theatre, which is a reproduction of an old British theatre is a center of
cultural activities. A passenger lift of HPTDC can be taken from the Cart Road and the Mall.
Lakkar Bazaar adjacent to the Ridge is popular for its wood-crafts and souvenirs. The Ridge
is a large open space in the heart of town presents excellent view of the mountain ranges.
Shimla's landmarks - the Neo-Gothic structure of Christ Church and the new - Tudor Library
building is worth seeing.

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Kufri : ( 2,633 meters ) 16km. from Shimla. Kufri has won a name on the sports and tourist
map of India due to its Ski-runs, Seed Potato Farm of the Central Potato Research Institute
and Food Craft Institute. It is the winter sports capital. Kufri in Shimla is the most favourable
place for winter sports activities. Excellent view of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Pirpanjal Range
and Shiwalik Range from a height

Naldera : ( 3,044 meters ) 22 km. Naldera offers one of the oldest and most sporting golf
courses in India set in the midst of thick forests. The country around Naldera is also famous
for its temples which are representative of the typical hill architecture of the area. Naldera in
Shimla is known for its 'nine hole golf course'. Naldera course was laid by Lord Curzon in
1903.

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Narkanda : ( 2,708 meters ) 64 km. Narkanda in Shimla commands a unique view of the
eternal snow line and the dense forest. A quaint sleepy hamlet. From here, you get
breathtaking view of the snow clad Himalayas. 'Hatu Peak' at an altitude of 3,143 meters
above sea level ai 8 km. from Narkanda. In winter, there are exciting ski slopes to Ski on.

Indian Institute of Advanced Studies : The institute in Shimla is housed in the erstwhile
Viceregal Lodge which was built in 1884-88 during the period of Lord Dufferin. It is a
commanding building in Summer Hill. The gardens of the Institute are really beautiful and
fascinating. It was designed by Henry Twain. The style of architecture is English
Renaissance, the masonry of the walling is light blue limestone and the wrought stonework is
done in sandstone in a beautiful light gray tint. It has magnificent lawns.

The State Museum Shimla : Shimla museum has endeavoured to project hill art and the
cultural wealth of the state showing their link with the national artistic scene. There is a
collection of minitature paintings, costumes, textiles and jewellery of the region. A leisurely
winding walk from the Mall, past the Gortan Castle and the Cecil leads to a colonial mansion
perched atop a hill. It houses the state museum. A visit to Shimla is incomplete without
seeing this museum, which offers a peep into Himachal's grand past.

Fagu : ( 2,510 meters ) 22 km. Fagu's idyllic surroundings area for those looking for
tranquillity and solitude. A slamm hamlet overlooking prosperous apple orchards and with a
fine view of the Himalayan Panorma. Fagu is also a popular trekking stage.

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Mashobra : ( 2,150 meters ) 13 km. This is a popular picnic spot which offers ideal walks
amidst forest of oak and pine. The area adjoining to Mashobra is famous for apples orchards.
Nearby is the site of annual 'Sipi Fair' held in June.

Summer Hill : ( 2,123 meters ) 5 km. A picturesque suburb of Shimla, which offers shady
walks in quiet surroundings. Himachal Pradesh University is located here. The Father of
Nation, Mahatma Gandhi during his visit to Shimla stayed in the elegant Georgian House of
Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur located here.

Glen : ( 1,830 meters ) Distance 4km. This is one of the most beautiful picnic spots of Shimla
with flowing streams through dense forest. Approach is near ‘Cecil Hotel’ and ‘Kennedy
House’.

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Annadale : Beyond the Glen is Annandale, another picnic spot. It is covered with deodar
forests and was once the playgrounds of Shimla, where racing, polo and cricket entertained
the Britishers.Surrounded by deodar trees, this glade has an ancient temple on the edge.

Tattapani : ( 655 meters ) 51 km. A dip at the hot sulphur springs at Tattapani not only
relaxes the body but also has therapeutic effects. There is a tourist bungalow at Tattapani to
accommodate 20 persons.

Shimla Famous Temples

Jakhu Temple :

Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is at an altitude of 2,455 meters above sea level near
the highest point of Shimla ridge. It offers a panoramic view over the surrounding valleys ,
out to the snowcapped peaks, and over the town itself. The temple is a 45-minute walk from
the Ridge, one can also hire pony or taxi to visit temple. According to legend, Hanumanji
took some rest here when he was carrying a hill of 'Sanjiwani Booti' ( a herb to save the life
of Lakshmana, the younger brother of Lord Rama ). Jakhu is a vantage point for witnessing
the changing skyline as the sun rises or sets.

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Tara Devi Temple: ( 2,100 meters ) On Shimla-Kalka road this holy place is accessible by
rail, bus and car (11-km). From the station / road - one can visit the templeon foot around 5
km walk among dense forests. Temple is accessible through motorable road also and its
around 20 KMs journey from the town. Situated on top of a hill that faces Shimla, the temple
offers panoramic views of Shimla town and surrounding hills. A thick forest of oak
andrhododendron surrounds it. It is famous picnic spot.

Kali Bari Temple: The temple is situated near to The Mall and its 5 minutes walk from The
Mall.The temple is dedicated to Shyamala Devi (Shimla is named after this goddess), an
incarnation of Goddess Kali. Temple faces heavy rush during Diwali and Durga Puja as many
Bengalis visit this temple.

Sankat Mochan Temple: On Shimla-Kalka road at a distance of around 5 KMsis the famous
"Lord Hanuman" temple. Situated at an altitude of 1,975m, it commands an excellent view of
Shimla town. Temple has beautiful campus and Langar is held every Sunday. It is a famous
temple and attracts a lot of visitors from near and farthroughout the year

Kamna Devi Temple: ( 2,145 meters ) 5 km. This place is located near Boileauganj. Kamna
Devi is the most popular picnic spot which commands a unique view of Shimla, Jutogh,
Summer hill and Tara Devi. The hill is famous by name of Prospect Hill.

Shimla Famous Lakes

Karali Lake : It is located on the Chhota Shali hillock just on the other side of Shali peak.
The size of the lake is almost equal to the size of the Annadale ground of Shimla. The water
os the lake is not very clean but from a great way up the hill, its first sight between the trees is

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unforgettable, because of, it is shining like a big emerald in the Sun. The location of the lake
is beautiful and worth a visit.

Chandranahan or Chander Naun Lake : Accessible to experienced trekkers and fed by a

series of springs, this lake lies in the Chanshal range. Surrounded by snow for long periods,
this is the source of the river Pabbar. The trek is difficult, but enjoyable and well rewarded at
the end. This lake lies in Rohru tehsil.

Tanu Jubbal Lake : This lake is near when visited from Narkanda. The location is beautiful
and weather around the lake is refreshing.

Shimla Wild Life Sanctuaries

Shimla Water Catchment Sanctuary :

Altitude : varies from 1900 meters to 2620 meters.

Annual Rainfall : mean annual rainfall is 1600 mm.

Temperature : temprature varies from -5 to 32°C.

Area : 1,025.3 hectares ( 10.25 sq. km. ).

Location : nearest town is Shimla.

Approaches : Shimla to inside sanctuary.

It was first notified as a sanctuary on 29th July 1958 and re-notified on 4th December 1982.
This is one of the few sanctuaries in Himachal free from habitation, this area has been
preserved since the last centuary as the catchment area providing water to Shimla town. It
was earlier the part of the Koti State and came under the State control in 1947-48. It has

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perhaps the highest density of 'Koklas Pheasant' among the State's national parks and
sanctuaries.

Flora: The vegetation consists predominately of temperate coniferous forest, dominated by

Deodar and mixed at lower elevations with White Oak and patches of Chir Pine and at higher
elevations with blue pine, green oak and spruce.

Fauna ( Mammals ) : Leopard Cat, barking Deer, Musk deer, Goral, common Langur,
Leopard, Rhesus Macaque, Marten, Indian Porcupine, Sambar and Squirrel.

Daranghati Sanctuary :

Altitude : varies from 2100 meters to 3315 meters.

Annual Rainfall : mean annual rainfall is 750 mm.
Temperature : temprature varies from 8 to 17°C.
Area : 16,740 hectares ( 167.40 sq. km. ).
Location : near Rampur Bushahr.
Approaches : Shimla to Rampur.

This sanctuary forms an important habitat for Musk Deer, Himalayan Tahr and Pheasants.
The area was earlier a hunting reserve of the former Raja of Bhushahr State. The sanctuary is
in two segments, with villages and cultivated area in between. Animal movement takes place
over snow clad peaks into the Rakchham Chitkul Sanctuary in the south-east and Talra
sanctuary in the south.

Flora : Forest Types include Ban Oak forest, Moist Deodar forest, western mixed
Coniferous, moist temperate Deciduous, Kharsu Oak, dry broad leaved and coniferous, dry
temprate coniferous and Himalayan sub-alpine forests.

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Fauna ( Mammals ) : Himalayan Black Bear, Brown Bear, Himalayan Palm Civet, Barking
Deer, Musk Deer, Flying Fox, Goral, Indian Hare, stripped Hyena, Himalayan Ibex, Leopard,
Himalayan yellow throated Marten, Serow, Blue Sheep, common giant flying Squirrel,
Himalayan Tahr and Himalayan Weasel. Locally threated species are Himalayan Tahr and
western Tragopan.

Chail Sanctuary :

Altitude : varies from 701 meters to 2180 meters.

Annual Rainfall : mean annual rainfall is 1602 mm.
Temperature : temprature varies from 4 to 28°C.
Area : 10,854.36 hectares ( 108.54 sq. km. ).
Location : nearest town is Chail. this sanctuary falls in district Solan and district Shimla
Approaches : Shimla to Chail or Solan to Chail.

It was notified a sanctuary on 21st March 1976. Formerly the game reserve of the erstwhile
Maharaja of Patiala, it is now heavily degraded. Yet it contains one of the world's most
significant population of the greatly threatened Cheer Pheasant as well as a herd of European
Red Deer, introduced half a century ago by the former Maharaja of Patiala.
Flora: Forest Types include Himalayan sub-tropical pine forests, Banoak forest and Moru
Oak forest. The dominant forest tree is the white or Silver Oak, mixed at lower altitude with
Chil Pine. Tree Rhododendron forms pure stands in a few places and Deodar have been sown
in some areas.

Fauna ( Mammals ): Himalayan Black Bear, Indian Wild Bear, Leopard Cat, Barking Deer,
Red Deer, Goral,

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Indian Hare, common Langur, Leopard, Rhesus Macaque, Himalayan yellow throated
Marten, Indian Porcupine, Sambar, common Giant and Kashmiri flying Squirrel, Locally
threatened species are Leopard, Chir or Cheer Pheasant and Red Deer. A Cheer Pheasant
breeding and rehabilitation program has been started in 1988.

Churadhar Sanctuary :

Altitude : varies from 2000 meters to 3647 meters.

Annual Rainfall : mean annual rainfall is 1602 mm.
Temperature : temprature varies from 4 to 28°C.
Area : 5,615 hectares ( 56.15 sq. km. ).
Location : nearest town is Nohra. this sanctuary falls between district Sirmaur and district
Shimla
Approaches : Shimla to Nohra to inside sanctuary or Sirmaur to Nohra to inside sanctuary.

It was notified a sanctuary on 15th November, 1985. One of the state's newest sanctuaries,
Churadhar has amongst the last good stretches of forest left in Southern Himachal Pradesh. In
the past, it was the stronghold of Musk Deer, now at the point of local extinction, Churadhar
still contains good habitat for Monal and other Pheasants. The sancuary gets its name from
Chur Peak or Churdhar Peak, on the top of which sits a majectic statute of Lord Shiva
commanding a breathtaking view of the valleys and forests below.

Flora: Forest Types include western mixed coniferous forests, Khasru Oak forest and Alpine
forests. Deodar and Oak are the famous species.

Fauna ( Mammals ): Himalayan Black Bear, Indian Wild Bear, barking Deer, Musk Deer,
Goral, common Langur, Leopard, Rhesus Macaque, Himalayan Mouse-Hare and Indian
Porcupine. Musk Deer has been severely depleted by hunting.

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Majathal Sanctuary :

Altitude : varies from 900 meters to 1966 meters.

Annual Rainfall : mean annual rainfall is 1040 mm.

Temperature : temprature varies from 1 to 29°C.

Area : 3,938.86 hectares ( 39.39 sq. km. ).

Location : nearest town is Shimla.

Approaches : Shimla to inside sanctuary or Solan to Shimla to inside sanctuary.

It was first notified as a sanctuary in 1962 and re-notified on 27th March 1974. This Oak
forest area is located in the catchment of the Satluj River and contains typical low altitude
western Himalayan flora and fauna. Studies have established this sanctuary to be possibly the
single most important locality for chir or cheer pheasant in the world.

Flora: Only Ban Oak forest.

Fauna ( Mammals ): Himalayan Black Bear, Indian Wild Bear, jungle Cat, common Palm
Civet, Himalayan Palm Civet, barking Deer, Goral, Jackal, common Langur, Leopard,
Rhesus Macaque, Himalayan yellow throated Marten and Sambar. A species believed to be
locally threatened is the Cheer Pheasant.

Talra Sanctuary :

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Altitude : varies from 1500 meters to 3324 meters.
Annual Rainfall : mean annual rainfall is 874.5 mm.
Temperature : temprature varies from -7 to 28°C.
Area : 4,093.31 hectares ( 40.49 sq. km. ).
Location : nearest town Jubbal.
Approaches : Shimla to Jubbal to inside sanctuary.

It was first notified as a sanctuary in 1962 and re-notified on 27th March 1974. This
sanctuary was formerly a popular hunting spot and continues to have human pressure in the
form of hunting spot and in the form of commercial logging and grazing. Only a few good
patches of wildlife habitat reportedly remain. primarily in steep and inaccessible areas, still
harbouring a population of Musk Deer and five species of pheasants.

Flora: Forest Types include lower western Himalayan temperate and west Himalayan upper
oak and fir forests.

Fauna ( Mammals ): Himalayan Black Bear, barking Deer, Musk Deer, Goral, common
Langur and Leopard.

Shimla Fairs and Festivals

Fairs in Shimla

Bhahara Fair : This fair is held in village Bharara near Kumharsain and people of all castes
and creed participate. The fair is held on the 1st of Jaistha(May), It is being celebrated from
ancient times. Devta Koteshwar is brought in the fair and goats are sacrificed in its honour as
a mark of respect. The fair is cultural and recreational and 'Natti' dances are performed.
People also enjoy 'Hindola' ride.

Bhoj Fair : This fair is held in village Guman in Rohru tehsil in the month of November. for
three days in honour of Devta Bansor, Parshu Ram and Kilbaru. Devta Bansor is the
presiding deity.Beside paying homage to the deities 'Natti' dances are performed by the
people. The fair attracts a huge crowd.

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Lavi Fair : Lavi fair of Rampur is the mostimportant fair of the district and state. It is a
commercial fair held on the 25th of Kartika (November). It is said that the fair was related to
the signing of trade treaty between the erstwhile Bushahr State and Tibet.. The shepherds of
Kinnaur migrate to warmer places before the on set of winter and on their waythey halt at
Rampur. The woollen goods,dry fruits and medicinal herbs brought by them are purchased by
the people and the traders of the plains and foodgrains,clothes and utensils are sold. It is a
very old fair and entirely relatedto the sale and purchase of goods. 'Natti' dances and cultural
shows are the main attractions.

Mahasu Jatar : This fair is celebrated at a place about 6 Kms from Shimla-Kotkhai road
near Mahasu village on the 3rd Tuesday in the month of Baisakha(May) for two days. The
fair is a very old one and is held in front of the Durga Devi temple by a large gatheringwho
throng the place from the neighbouring areas. It is believed that a Rana of Badoli lived in
Chakroth near Mahasu. He had built Durga temple there. After the abolition of his jagir the
Rana left the village and the vilagers of Mahasu constructed a temple of Durga in their own
village and to commemorate the occasion they startedthe fair. 'Natti' dances and folk songs
are performed. Archery game is the main attraction of entertainment. At the end of the fair a
goat is sacrificed.

Sipi Fair : This fair is held every year in Sihpur below Mashobra on the 1st of Jaistha(may)
in honour of Sip Devta. It is very old fair and the Rana of Koti used to be the chief visitor.
Thousands of people of the surrounding areas participate in the fair. A goat is slaughtered in
honour of the deity. Archery game is played besides several cultural programmes, variety
shows, 'Karyala', Performance of the jugglers, magicians and acrobats provide additional
entertainment to the spectators.

Festivals in Shimla

Summer Festival : It is held every year in the month of May at Shimla. It is variety cultural
function with performance of local folks, cultural program by school children and daily
performance by somefamous personality. It is held on the famous ridge ground. It is a very
famous festival and attracts a huge crowd from all over the Himachal.

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Winter Sports Festival : Ice-skating in Shimla is a big attraction for the sports-lovers during
winter. Shimla is the only place in Asia which has the privilege of having a natural Ice-
skating rink of the kind and offers a popular pastime to the participants and on lookers
alike.Ice-skating normally begins in early December and carries on to February. Clear skies
and low temperatures provide series of uninterrupted sessions. There are two sessions every
day, in the morning and in the evening depending upon the frozen ice on the ground . The
hanging baloon on the Municipal Building adjacent to scandal point works as signal ,
whetherthe skating is going to be held on that day or not.Membership is available for the
season as well as for shorter terms and even for single sessions. Skates are available at the
rink.Fancy dress carnivals, 'gymkhanas' ice-hockey and dances enliven every season.

Rohru Festival : This festival is held in Rohru on the 9th and 10th of Baiskha (April) on the
banks of river Pabbar in honour of Devta Shikru. People of nearby villages are the devotees
of the Devta. It is very old festival and is held to commemorate the supremacy of the deity.
This festival is also a commercial one and apart from the performance of 'Natti' dances and
cultural activities,brisk trading is also done. Men and Women costumed in their best attire
participate in the fair.

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 Chapter-5

CONCLUSION

A quaint little hill train chugs up into the Shivalik foothills, over dramatic loops and high
arched bridges to the hill resort of Shimla (2130 m) - the capital of the mountain state of
Himachal.

Shimla was one a string of hill stations that the British established to escape from the
scorching heat of the plains. The 12 km, crescentshaped ridge on which it is located was first
occupied by the British troops, in the early part of the 19th century, during the Anglo-Gurkha
War.

The little village of Shymala, a retreat for British officers, soon grew to become the
glamorous summer capital of the British, in India.

Shimla's salubrious climate, easy accessibility and numerous attractions have made it one of
the most popular hill stations in northern India. The splendid views of the show-clad ranges
of the Himalayas, fine walks through oak and flowering rhododendron, enchanting resorts
within easy reach, golf Naldehra and skiing at Kufri and Narkanda make Shimala an
attractive destination throughout the year.

THE RIDGE - SHIMLA: The large open space in the heart of town presents excellent view
of the mountain ranges. Shimla's landmarks-the Neo-Gothic structure of Christ Church and
the new-Tudor library building are worth seeing.

THE MALL - SHIMLA: Main shopping centre of shimla with restaurants. the Gaiety
Theatre, which is a reproduction of an old British theatre is a center of cultural activities.  A
passenger lift of HPTDC can be taken from the Cart Road and the Mall. Lakkar Bazaar
adjacent to the Ridge is popular for its wood crafts and souvenirs.

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KALI BARI TEMPLE - SHIMLA: Few yards from scandal Point towards General Post
Office. It is believed that the idol of Goddess Shayamla is enshrined there.

JAKHOO TEMPLE (2.5 Km) 2455 m: Shimla's highest peak offers a panoramic view of
the town. An ancient "Lord Hanuman" temple. Way from Ridge near Church (on foot) One
can also hire pony or taxi to visit the temple.

STATE MEUSEUM (3 Km): Ancient Historical Sculptors and paintings of Himachal

Pradesh. Visiting hours 10 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Monday and gazetted holidays.

INDIAN INSTITUTE OF ADVANCED STUDIES (4 Km) 1983 m: This magnificent

English renaissance structure was the former Viceregal Lodge. Its lawns and woodland are
added attractions. Entry by ticket.

PROSPECT HILL (5 Km) 2155 m: Crowned by a temple dedicated to Kamna Devi 15

minutes walk from Boileauganj on shimla Bilaspur road. the hill offers a spectacular views of
the area.

SUMMER HILL (7 Km) 1983 m: A picturesque superb on Shimla-Kalka Railway line.

Offers shady walks in quiet surroundings. The Father of Nation, Mahatma Gandhi during his
visit to Shimla lived in the elegant Georgian House of Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur. HP
University is situated here.

CHADWICK FALLS (7 Km) 1586 m: Surrounded by thick forests. About 45 minutes walk
from Summer Hill Chowk.

SANKAT MOCHAN (7 Km) 1975 m: On Shimla-Kalka road (NH-22) is famous "Lord

Hanuman" temple. It commands an excellent view of Shimla town. The place can be visited
by Bus/Taxi.

TARA DEVI (11 Km) 1851 m: On Shimla - Kalka road (NH-22) this holy place is
accessible by Rail, bus and car. From the station/road-one can visit the temple either on foot
or by taxi / jeep.

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FAGU (22 Km) 2450 m: On Hindustan-Tibet Road. It has enchanting views. Himachal
Tourism runs the Hotel peach Blossom.

NARKANDA (60 Km) 2708 m: On the Hindustan Tibet road, Narkanda offers spectacular
views of snow ranges. An uphill trek through Deodar woods leads to Hatu Peak (8 Km).
Ancient temple of Hatu Mata is  alive with skiers. HPTDC runs Hotel Hatu and in winters
short skiing courses are organised.

KOTGARH (82 Km) 1830 m: Motorable, bifurcation from Narkanda (18 Km) Land of
apples and apricots.

SARAHAN (176 Km) 1950 m: On Hindustan Tibet Road from Jeori Sarahan is (17 Km)
with spectacular view of Srikhand range. Sarahan has the majestic Bhimkali Temple.
Himachal Tourism runs Hotel Shrikhand. Saharan is the gateway to Kinnaur. A Pheasant
Breading Centre and stadium are worth visiting.

KHARAPATHHAR (85 Km) 2673 m: Motorable on Shimla-Rohru road. A famous

religious shrine Giriganga is 7 Km on foot or by jeep. HPTDC Tourist complex Giriganga
Resort under construction.

JUBBAL (90 Km) 1892 m: Headquarters of the erstwhile Princely State, Jubbal has a
superbly maintained Palace which was designed by a French architect in the 1930 and is
remarkable mix of European and indigenous styles.

HATKOTI (104 Km) 1400 m: Motorable on shimla-Rohru highway. Famous for ancient
temple of Mata Hateswari in the midst of paddy fields on the right bank of the Pabber river.
HPTDC runs Hotel Pabber here.

MASHOBRA (12 Km) 2148 m: Motorable on Shimla-Naldehra road. Surrounded by thick

forests and offers ideal walks. Goddess Durga temple is worth seeing.

CRAIGNANO (18 Km) 2149 m: Motorable on Shimla-Naldhera road, Ideal picnic spot
with lawns and garden.

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NALDEHRA (22 Km) 2044 m: Motorable On Shimla Tattapani road. this is a nine hole golf
course. It was designed by the British viceroy, Lord Curzon who was so enchanted by this
place that he gave his daughter Alexandra, Naldehra as her second name. Ancient Nag temple
is also situated here. Himachal Tourism runs Hotel Golf Glade here.

TATTAPANI (65 Km) 680 m: Motorable on Shimla-Mandi Highway via Naldehra.

Tattapani has hot water springs having sulpher contents, also Hindu temples and Shiv Goofa
at Saraur (4 Km) are worth seeing places

CHINDI (94 Km) 2010 m: Motorable on Shimla-Mandi highway via Tattapani - A beautiful
place in Karsog Valley. Himachal tourism's tourist Resort is opening shortly. One can also
visit famous mahunag Temple (18 Km). Mamleshwar mahadev Temple (13 Km) Kamaksha
Devi temple (19 Km) Pangna Killa/temple (8 Km) and Shikari Devi Temple (18 Km).

Around Shimla

Mashobra (2,149 m)

Noted for its apple orchards and thick woods of oak and pine. Mashobra is a sylvan retreat
with pretty walks and pIcnic spots. A little track leads down to Sipur a grassy glade with a
stream wandering through it. Excursions are possible to Shali Peak - the highest point in the
area or to Craignano (3 km) with its elegant guest house set in a delightful flower-filled
garden. (9.6 km)

Kufri (2,622 m)

Kufri is a noted summer and winter resort with its glorious views of forested slopes and tall
ranges iced in a covering of perpetual snow. A fine ski resort, Kufri has a winter season that
extends from January to March. A sparkling winter sports festival is held each year in
February. (16 km)

Fagu (2,509 m)
Just 6 km from Kufri, Fagu is a vantage point with panoramic views of the ranges and

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valleys. Picturesquely located amid forests and orchards, Fagu has a rest house and tourist
bungalow overlooking the Giri Valley.

Naldehra
The scenic, nine hole golf course with its springly turf and crown of deodar was laid out at
the instance of the Viceroy, Lord Curzon. So enamoured was he by the beauty of the spot,
that he named his youngest daughter Alexandra Naldera. (23 km)

Tattapani
Tattapani is just 28 km from Naldehra, along a road winding through the scenic country side.
The hot sulphur springs here, are hoted for their invigorating and curative powers. (51 km)

Narkanda (2,708 m)

A hill road with superb views links Narkanda with Shimla Narkanda, located amidst fragrant
pine forests is a ski resort in winter. It has a choice of slopes ranging from a beginners run
and a slalom slope, to sharper descents for the experienced skier. (64 km)

Hattu Peak (3,300 m)

Rising above forests of spruce, the Hattu Peak is a vantage point with spectacular views. (8
km). The pretty orchard country of Thanedar and Kotgarh - beautiful in spring - are not far
away. Khadrala and Beghi with their dense forests and Kumarsain with an interesting wooden
palace are also within easy reach of Narkanda.

Hatkati (1,100 m)

In the picturesque valley of the River Pabbar, about 104 km from Shimla, is noted for its
historic temple dedicated to Durga. Enroute to Hatkoti is the village of Kotkhai, splendidly
located among apple orchards - a village with fine traditional architecture. Jabbal, once the
capital of a princely state with its impressive palace is also on the way.Beyond Hatkoti, 11
km away, is Rohru (1,149 m) on the River Pabbar - an excellent spot for angling, with fishing

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pools teeming with trout. The trout hatchery at Chirgaon, (15 km) upstream, ensures a well
stocked river.

Rampur
Rampur was once the capital of the princely state of Bushair and a major centre on the old
trade route into Tibet. The annual Lavi Fair, held in the second week of November, is still an
important event for the inhabitants of the region. They gather to buy, sell and barter their
produce - homespun blankets, shawls, wool and dry fruits - and to celebrate the event with
music and dance.

Rampur, on the banks of the Sutlej is on the N.H. 22 - the old Hindustan-Tibet Road that goes
from Shimla into Kinnaur. The scenic village of Sarahan with its fascinating Bhimkali
Temple is on this road beyound Rampur. (140 km).

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 REFERENCES

 History of SHIMLA , John Marshall, S. - Mohenjodaro and the Indus Civilization,

New Delhi, 1973.

 The s, Gurumurthy, S.-Archaeology and SHIMLA , 1974.

 Role of s, Gurumurthy, S.-Recent Archaeological Investigations and SHIMLA . 1978.

 SHIMLA at the glance, Gurumurthy, S-Ceramic Traditions of South India, Madras

University, 1981.

 The Maheshwar nath , Mahalingam, T.V.-Excavations in the Lower Kaveri Valley,

Madras University, 1969.

 The Vision of , Narasimhan. -Neolithic and Megalithic culture of Tamilnadu, New

Delhi, 1980.

 s of India, Ramachandran, K.S.- Archaeology of South India.Tamilnadu - New Delhi,

1980.

 Role of New Age, Ram Sharma, -Archaeology and SHIMLA , 1970.

 SHIMLA Nath, Sharkarnanand, -Recent SHIMLA . 1980.

 The , Mahashwar, - Madras University, 1982.

 KUMAR (2007) has explained the environment of SHIMLA. In this project he

explained the environment of SHIMLA, he explained every phases of SHIMLA.

 KUNAL KUMAR SINGH (2006) has explained the tourism of SHIMLA. He

explained the tourism side of SHIMLA , he also explained the relationship between the
SHIMLA and the Tourism.

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 ASHOK (2005) has explained the environment of the SHIMLA. He explained all the
entities of environment of SHIMLA, that is related with SHIMLA.

 DINESH (2004) has explained the culture and places of SHIMLA. He explained the
culture and places of SHIMLA, he explained the all phases of culture that is related with the
SHIMLA.

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 REPORT TITLED

"CULTURE AND HERITAGE OF

SHIMLA"

SUBMITTED BY: __________________

BTS: ___________________

(PTS-04)

SUBMITTED TO: _________________________

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER – 1 INTRODUCTION 1

CHAPTER – 2 PLACE FOR ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES 4

CHAPTER – 3 TOURIST PLACES 10

CHAPTER – 4 TEMPLES OF SHIMLA 13

CHAPTER-5 CONCLUSION 35

REFERENCES 41

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