The major attractions in Shimla are:
The Ridge
This huge open place in the heart of the mesmerizing town of Shimla presents tremendous views of the mountain ranges. The Ridge houses a large water reservoir which acts as the main supply of Shimla town. Most government functions in Shimla are held on the Ridge as is the famous Summer Festival of Shimla. Major Landmarks on The Ridge are the Neo-Gothic structure of Christ Church and the new-Tudor library building.
Jakhoo Hill / Temple
This temple is devoted to Lord Hanuman. At 2455m, this is the town's uppermost point. It is also a vantage spot for Shimla’ s famed views. The acme is coroneted with a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The hill is full of paths and narrow roads, which are enjoyable walks.
The Glen
At 1830m, 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.
Scandal Point
In the center of the city is the famous scandal point which was immortalised by Rudyard Kipling.
Kufri Mini Zoo
4 kms Kufri, famous tourists spot only 16 kms. Shimla has an added attraction of Mini zoo amidst dense forest to the tourists where a rare breed of wild animals and pheasants species commonly found in Himalayan forest region have been kept in natural habitat. Spread over an area of twenty hectares of land with rich flora and fauna about 140 wild animals including pheasants of different verities 'Monal' the State bird of Himachal Pradesh and one of the endangered species of Himalayan region has been the other attractions of this zoo also been placed safely in this mini zoo.
Aviary at Old Raj Bhavan(1 km) (Himalayan Aviary)
Close to the Viceregal lodge is the Himalayan Aviary or the Himalayan Bird Park. This park is a natural habitat of numerous species of birds found in Himachal such as Himalayan Monal, Pheasants, Peafowls and National Bird of India, the Peacock.
Pabbar Valley
The drive to Hatkoti and Rohru in the Pabbar valley will take around 4-5 hours. Fruit laden orchards border the route. The ancient temple of Hatkoti is situated on the bank of Pabbar river, while Rohru is an excellent place for fresh water fishing.
Bhargaon (4 km)
Approached either past the cemetery below St. Edward's School, or through Tutikandi, this village has splendid examples of traditional Himachal architecture.
The Toy Train
In 1904, with Lord Curzon on board, a little steam engine set out from Kalka. Seven hours later, after passing through 109 tunnels (the longest, at Barog, was nearly a km long) the train pulled into Shimla. It was a historic moment. It also marked a rise in the fortunes of Shimla. The train made travel much easier, and therefore more visitors began to arrive at this hill resort. The ride is one of breathtaking beauty. Passing through some of the most exotic terrain, it makes a leisurely beginning to a holiday! Today also you can travel in this toy train from Kalka to Shimla. There are various trains operating - single compartment rail car or multiple compartments and deluxe trains - Shivalik Express, Kalka-Shimla Express, Shivalik Deluxe, Himalayan Queen.
