About Shimla Local Sightseeing Taxi Tour
Shimla Local Sightseeing Taxi Tour - Shimla, the capital city of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, is renowned for its picturesque beauty, colonial architecture, and pleasant climate. Nestled amidst the lofty Himalayas, Shimla was once the summer capital of British India during the colonial era. Its rich history is reflected in its architecture, with Victorian-style buildings, churches, and neo-gothic structures adorning its streets. One of the most iconic landmarks of Shimla is the Ridge, a spacious open space located in the heart of the town, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The Mall Road, a bustling street lined with shops, restaurants, and colonial-era buildings, is another popular attraction where tourists can immerse themselves in the local culture and indulge in shopping and dining. Shimla is also famous for its toy train, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Kalka-Shimla Railway. This narrow-gauge railway connects Shimla to the town of Kalka in the foothills and offers a scenic journey through tunnels, bridges, and lush green valleys. Beyond its colonial charm, Shimla is a gateway to various adventure activities and trekking trails in the Himalayas. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the Jakhu Temple, dedicated to the Hindu monkey god Hanuman, or take a leisurely stroll through the pine forests surrounding the city. Overall, Shimla continues to captivate visitors with its timeless beauty, cultural heritage, and tranquil ambiance, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an escape into the lap of nature. We at Himachal Taxis is the best Taxi Service Provider in Himachal if you are looking for a Local Sightseeing of Shimla by Taxi.
Places to Visit in Shimla Local Sightseeing Taxi Tour :
There are numerious places to visit in Shimla Local Sightseeing Taxi Tour, find below here details.
The Ridge in Shimla : Start your day at The Ridge, which is the heart of Shimla. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is a perfect spot for a morning stroll.
Mall Road : Next, head to Mall Road, which runs parallel to The Ridge. This bustling street is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it an ideal place for shopping and trying out local delicacies.
Christ Church : Located on The Ridge, Christ Church is one of the oldest churches in North India. Its neo-gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows make it a must-visit attraction.
Jakhu Temple : Drive to Jakhu Temple, dedicated to the Hindu deity Hanuman. Situated atop Jakhu Hill, it offers panoramic views of Shimla and the surrounding hills. Don't miss the opportunity to see the large statue of Lord Hanuman at the temple.
Viceregal Lodge (Rashtrapati Niwas) : Visit the Viceregal Lodge, also known as Rashtrapati Niwas. This architectural marvel served as the summer residence of the British viceroys during the colonial era. Explore its beautiful gardens and learn about its historical significance.
State Museum : Make a stop at the Himachal State Museum to delve into the rich cultural heritage of the region. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and paintings that depict the history, art, and culture of Himachal Pradesh.
Summer Hill : Head to Summer Hill, located about 5 kilometers from the city center. This serene suburb is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of Shimla.
Tara Devi Temple : Lastly, visit Tara Devi Temple, perched atop Tara Devi Hill. Dedicated to the Goddess Tara, this sacred site attracts devotees and tourists alike. The temple offers panoramic views of the Shimla valley and the Himalayan ranges.
How to Reach Shimla :
By Air : Nearest Airport: The nearest airport to Shimla is the Shimla Airport (also known as Jubbarhatti Airport), located approximately 23 kilometers away from the city center. Flights: However, Shimla Airport is a small domestic airport with limited flight connectivity. Flights to Shimla are primarily from Delhi and Chandigarh. Once you reach the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Shimla. By Train: Nearest Major Railway Station: The nearest major railway station to Shimla is Kalka Railway Station, located around 96 kilometers away. Toy Train: From Kalka, you can take the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kalka-Shimla Toy Train. This train journey offers stunning views of the Himalayas and takes around 5-6 hours to reach Shimla. Regular Trains: There are also regular train services available from major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Kalka to Kalka Railway Station. From Kalka, you can continue your journey to Shimla by toy train or taxi.
By Road : Bus: Shimla is well-connected by road to major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Manali. State-owned buses as well as private buses operate on these routes. You can board a bus from the Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT) in Delhi or Chandigarh. Taxi/Car: You can also hire a taxi or drive your own car to Shimla. The road journey from Delhi to Shimla takes around 7-8 hours depending on the traffic and road conditions.
Shimla Local Sightseeing Taxi Tour - Best Time to Visit :
Summer (March to June) : This is the peak tourist season in Shimla, with pleasant weather and clear skies. Temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities like sightseeing, trekking, and adventure sports. It's a great time to escape the scorching heat of the plains and enjoy the cool mountain air.
Monsoon (July to September) : Shimla experiences moderate to heavy rainfall during this period, which can sometimes lead to landslides and roadblocks. However, if you enjoy the lush greenery and don't mind occasional showers, this can be a good time to visit. It's less crowded during monsoon, and you may find better deals on accommodations.
Autumn (October to November) : This is another excellent time to visit Shimla when the monsoon has ended, and the weather is pleasant. The landscapes are still green from the rains, and the skies are clear, making it perfect for outdoor activities. It's a good time for photography enthusiasts as the scenery is beautiful with clear views of the surrounding mountains.
Winter (December to February) : Winter transforms Shimla into a winter wonderland with snow-capped mountains and chilly weather. Temperatures can drop below freezing, especially at night, so be prepared for cold weather. It's an ideal time for snow lovers and those interested in winter sports like skiing and ice skating. The famous Shimla Winter Carnival usually takes place in February, adding to the charm of the season.
Shopping in Shimla :
Mall Road : This is the heart of Shimla's shopping scene. Lined with shops selling a variety of goods ranging from handicrafts, woolens, souvenirs, jewelry, and more, Mall Road is a must-visit for any shopper. The bustling atmosphere and the scenic beauty around make the shopping experience even more enjoyable.
Lakkar Bazaar : Famous for its wooden crafts, especially walking sticks (known as 'lakkars' in Hindi), Lakkar Bazaar is a vibrant market where you can find a range of wooden artifacts, souvenirs, and other traditional items. It's also a great place to buy handmade toys and woolens.
Tibetan Market : Located near Mall Road, the Tibetan Market is known for its Tibetan handicrafts, jewelry, carpets, and other artifacts. You can find beautifully crafted items such as prayer wheels, thangkas (Tibetan Buddhist paintings), and more here.
Shimla Old Town : Exploring the old town of Shimla can lead you to hidden gems where you can find authentic Himachali handicrafts, shawls, and other traditional items. It's worth taking a stroll through the narrow lanes to discover these local treasures. Bhuttico: If you're looking for high-quality woolen products, Bhuttico is a renowned cooperative store in Shimla. It offers a range of woolen garments including shawls, stoles, sweaters, and blankets made from pure wool sourced from the region.
Himachal Emporium : Located near Scandal Point on Mall Road, this government-run emporium showcases a wide range of traditional Himachali handicrafts, artifacts, and souvenirs. It's a good place to buy authentic local products.
Himachal Handloom and Crafts Centre : Another government-run store, this center offers a variety of handloom products including shawls, carpets, rugs, and more. It's known for its high-quality craftsmanship and authentic Himachali designs.
Flea Markets : Apart from the established markets, Shimla also hosts occasional flea markets where you can find unique items, antiques, and local handicrafts at reasonable prices. Keep an eye out for these markets, especially during festivals and special events.
Tips For Shimla Local Sightseeing Taxi Tour :
Plan Your Itinerary: Research and decide which places you want to visit in Shimla. Some popular attractions include Mall Road, Christ Church, J