Explore this picturesque town from its colonial architectural remnants to the famous Mall. As the 'summer capital’ of the British, Shimla saw remarkable building activity during the colonial era, and some of the finest structures of that time still stand over its seven hills. Abundant specimens of the Alpine and the Swiss Bavarian chalets, the Norman baronial style and neo-Gothic structures validate its likeness to a European town. The famous Mall with its resemblance to an English home county’s marketplace has, perhaps, one of the longest stretches of pedestrian shopping anywhere in the world; and the town of Shimla also holds what may well be one of the last urban forests ever to be found on our planet. Beauty is aplenty also in the hidden trails and picnic spots, in the surrounding forests, nearby villages and the snow-capped Himalayan peaks that Shimla offers a panoramic view of. The best way to enjoy Shimla is by walking as the oldest residents would vow and these walks are designed to take you through the town’s rich history, heritage and natural beauty. |