The British empire may have ceased to exist, but its echoes linger on in Shimla (2130m). As the 'summer capital' of the British in India.

This was the country's focus for the better part of every year and now, it is the state capital of Himachal Pradesh. Today, its well developed facilities, easy accessibility and numerous attractions make it one of India's most popular hill resorts. Placed in the tower ranges of the Himalaya mountains, it is surrounded by pine deodar, oak and rhododendron forests.

Towards the north lie the snow covered high-ranges, while the valleys broad whispering streams and swaying fields. Within the town are a host of splendid colonial edifices,quaint cottages and charming walks. Shimla holds a variety of shopping,sport and entertainment.

High season : is mid - April to mid - July, mid - September to late October and mid - December to mid - January. The best time to visit is mid - September to late November

Places to Visit:

The Ridge

This large open space in the heart of town presents excellent views of the mountain ranges. Shimla's landmarks the neo Gothic structure of Christ Church and the Neo Tudor Library library building are here.

Chadwick Falls, 67 m high : are only really worth visiting during or just after the monsoons (July to October). The falls are 7 km from Shimla and can be reached via Summer Hill.

Lekkar Bazaar
Popular for its wood crates and souvenirs, this is just off the Ridge.

Jakhoo Hill/Temple - dedicated to the monkey god, Lord Hanuman
At 2455 m,this is the town's highest peak and a vantage point for Shimla's famous views. The summit is crowned with a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The hill is full of paths and narrow roads which are enjoyable walks.

Christ Church & St. Michael's Cathedral
This dressed - stone church with fine stained glass has a cruciform design. It is located just off the Mall, below the District Courts. This is the second oldest church in northern India (the oldest is in Ambala), Christ Church was build between 1846 and 1857. The church is one of the Shimla's major landmarks and is renowned for its stained glass windows. You can have a look inside the church or attend English-language services every Sunday morning during the tourist season.

Indian Institute of Advanced Study
At 1983 m,this magnificent English renaissance strudure was the former Viceregal Lodge. Its lawns and woodland are added attractions. Entry by ticket (nominal charge).A portion of the interior is also open to the public, except on Sundays and holidays.

The Glen
At 1830 m,this is a thickly wooded ravine through which a stream flows. It is a popular picnic spot.

Annandale
Surrounded by a thick deodar forest, this large glade has an ancient temple on an edge.

Excursions

Bihargaon (4km)
Approached either past the cemetery below St.Edward's Schoot,or through Tutikandi, this village has splendid examples of traditional Himachal architecture.

Prospect Hill and Kamna Devi(6km)
At 2125 m and crowned by a temple dedicated to Kamna Devi, the Hill offers spectacular views of the area.

Sankat Mochan (7 km)
This is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman.

Chandwick Falls (8 km)
At 1586 m,these rained falls are approached through Summer hill.

Tara Devi (11 km)
A thickly wooded hill whose peak has a temple dedicated to Tara Devi.

Mashobra (12 km)
At 2149m, this beautiful suburb is surrounded by a thick forest. From here, a track leads down to Sipur which is an exquisite glade shaded by ancient deodar trees. There are old temples on a side and a fair is held every April.

Kufri (16km)
At 2501m, this is famous for its wide views and skislopes. An enjoyable walk leads up to the Mahasu Peak.

Fagu(22 km): At 2510 m, Fagu has some enchanting views.

Naldehra (22 km)
At 2044 m, this is a nine hole, golf course. It was designed by the British Viceroy, Lord Curson who was so enchanted by the place that he gave his daughter Alexandra, 'Naldehra' as per second name.

Chail(45km)
This was the former summer capital' of the Patiala State. The palace is now run as a Luxury hotel by Himachal Tourism.

Tattapani (51 km)
At 656 m, there are hot sulphur springs here. Himachal Tourism has a restaurant and a Tourist Bungalow at Tattapani.

Adventure and fishing
There are numerous walks within and close to Shimla And there are many soft to medium treks that can use Shimla as the base. Some treks are to the Shalipeak, to the Kullu valley over the Jalori pass or the Bashleo pass, Shimla to Chail, Shimla to Junga and Shimla to Tattapani. Angling for trout can be done on the river Pabbar, near Rohru.

HOTEL