If you are a nature lover, and would like to spend your summer vacation in an enchanting destination, then head to Shimla. Shimla or Simla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh. In 1864, Shimla was declared as the summer capital of British India. After independence, the city became the capital of Punjab and was later made the capital of Himachal Pradesh. This amazing hill station is a dwelling place, to several buildings that are styled, in the Tudorbethan and neo-Gothic architectures, that date back to the colonial era. You can even find multiple temples and churches in this place.

Tourist attractions in Shimla include the Viceregal Lodge, the Christ Church, the Jakhoo Temple, the Mall Road, the Ridge, and Annandale. In the city center’s northernmost point, you will come across Jakhoo to the southernmost location, there is Annadale in the easternmost point, you will find Sanjauli, and in the direction of the western point, there is Chotta Shimla. The Kalka–Shimla Railway line built by the British is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also a major tourist attraction to explore in Shimla. 

As the terrain of Shimla is steep, it hosts the enthralling mountain biking race called MTB Himalaya, which started in 2005. MTB Himalaya is one of the biggest events and is one of its kind in the whole of South Asia. Shimla also has the largest natural ice-skating rink, in South Asia. Apart from being a tourism center, the city is also an educational hub, with some colleges and research institutions. 

During the 18th century, the present Shimla city was just a dense forest. The only places one could find at that time were the Jakhoo temple and a few scattered houses. Shimla got its name, after a Hindu Goddess “Shyamala Devi,” who is an incarnation of Goddess Kali. The best time to visit Shimla is between January to June when it is spring/summer season, an ideal season to spend some quality time with the whole family. July to October is the best season for honeymooners or friends, as it is the rainy season. From November to January, as it is the peak winter season, you can have a fun time enjoying the snowfall, and celebrate the Christmas festival amidst, the snow-capped mountains with your family or friends. 

It is truly a retreat to visit Shimla during Summer, as you can enjoy lush greenery everywhere you see. This photographic hill station is well-known for its Victorian architecture. You can have a glimpse of these amazing structures, even though its reflections in some areas, like Mall road and the Ridge. When compared with Manali, Shimla is an ultimate vacation getaway. How? Manali, though it is as picturesque as Shimla, this wonderful hill station is best suited for adventure enthusiasts. Whereas Shimla is best-suited for exploring the beauty of nature and basking in the resplendent landscapes around. Woolen wear, handicrafts, wooden items, Himachal circular hats, colorful carpets, and traditional jewelry are the things you should not miss buying, as it’s very famous here. 

There are few famous places of interest in and around Shimla, to visit during Summer Vacations. 

They are: 

• The Ridge of Shimla
• Mall Road
• Jakhoo Hill – Hanuman Temple
• Green Valley
• Christ Church
• Kufri
• Viceregal Lodge
• Himalayan Bird Park
• Tara Devi Temple
• Kali Bari Temple
• Chadwick Waterfall
• Johnnie’s Wax Museum
• Indian Institute of Advanced Study
• Shimla State Museum
• Toy Train Ride
• Annandale
• A panoramic outlook of Kiala Forest
• Historical Kuthar Fort
• Scandal Point
• Summer Hill
• Shaily Peak
• Manjathal Sanctuary
• Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary
• Lakkar Bazaar
• Gurudwara Sahib
• Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex
• Gorton Castle
• Sankat Mochan Temple
• Bantony Castle
• Himalayan Nature Park
• St. Michael’s Cathedral Catholic Church
• Army Heritage Museum
• Kamna Devi Temple
• Rani Jhansi Park
• Baba Bhalku Railway Museum
• Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary
• Horse Riding in Shimla
• Jakhu Ropeway
• Rothney Castle
• Prospect Hill
• Hawa Ghar
• Hip Hip Hurray Amusement Park
• Kasauli
• Solan
• Mashobra
• Fagu
• Shoghi
• Chail
• Skiing in Kufri
• Pabbar Valley
• Narkanda
• Naggar Castle
• Tattapani and
• Naldehra