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Shimla special
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Snow-capped mountains and Colonial buildings beckon tourists to Shimla
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POPULAR HOLIDAY DESTINATION Children playing with snow in Shimla
It is the Promised Land for a honeymooner. It is a dreamland for a tourist. Even the English who found resemblance to their European snowscapes in Shimla, transformed this sequestered hamlet into a busy summer capital. Named after Goddess Shyamla, Shimla owes its growth to the British. We took a deluxe train from Kalka at 5.30 in the morning and reached Shimla by 10.15 a.m. As we sipped tea, we whizzed past dark tunnels, beautiful bridges over glittering brooks and dense woods. At Shimla, we took a taxi to the hotel. And though it was just 3 km away, we had to pay Rs. 150!
The manager of Quality Inn Himdev made us feel welcome. We got a spacious, well-equipped suite with an excellent view. In the evening, we went to The Mall, the city's main shopping centre. It boasts clubs, theatres, restaurants and shops that sell trendy merchandise. We passed Gaiety Theatre, a Colonial edifice where plays by Shakespeare, Marlowe, G. B. Shaw and Agatha Christie were staged, and is the place to go to if you are a theatre lover.
Romantic spot
We then reached Scandal Point, a large plaza. It gets its name from the number of romantic assignations, especially those of the Maharaja of Patiala, who is said to have eloped with an English belle. It was almost dark and the driver took us to Sankat Mochan Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. In the precincts, there is a shrine dedicated to Shodasa (Ganesha) constructed in the Dravidian style. From here, we got a splendid view of the twinkling lights of Shimla.
The next spot was Viceregal Lodge, another Colonial structure steeped in history. Housed in the gothic splendour of the lodge is the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, India's premier academy for higher research. This edifice was the throne of the Raj for part of the year. Further uphill was the museum, which houses a collection of Pahari miniature stone sculptures, handicrafts, jewels and archaeological finds.
We also visited the picturesque suburb of Summer Hill, which offers tourists an opportunity to take long walks and enjoy scenic vistas. Beyond this hill, enjoy the stunning view of the Chadwick Falls that drops into a deep gorge. Taking in the natural beauty, we wandered through a glade, Annandale, and a picnic spot called Glen. It is located in a thickly wooded ravine beside a stream of icy cold water fresh from the melting snow.
As night fell, the temperature plummeted and we began to experience the chill of Shimla.
What to do
You can take heritage walks and experience the glory of a bygone era.Shimla offers a wide range of gastronomic experiences that range from fine dining in elegant surroundings to street-food.
When to visit
Anytime is good time. But if you want to see snow, then December is an ideal month.
How to get there
By air: Jubberhati (23 km) is the nearest airport.
By train: There are several trains that go up to Kalka.
Chennai-ites can go up to Chandigarh, and drive to Kalka, which takes an hour. If you happen to be here in winter, do not miss the toy train ride.
By bus: It takes eight hours to reach Shimla from Delhi.
G BRINDHA
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