Places to Visit in Shimla in December

In December, Shimla turns into a snowy paradise, perfect for a magical winter trip. You can visit cool places like the Viceregal Lodge, a fancy old building, or ride on the cute toy train to see amazing views. Mall Road is a busy street with pretty lights where you can shop and eat yummy food. Nature lovers can go for walks in the hills or see Jakhu Temple, surrounded by peaceful forests. Shimla in December is a fantastic place for a fun and memorable holiday.

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Shimla Places to Visit in December

Here are some of the best places to visit in Shimla in December:

1. Craignano Nature Park, Mashobra

Located on the outskirts of Shimla, Craignano Nature Park is a peaceful retreat where you can relax surrounded by natural beauty. One of its highlights is a lovely tulip garden, which blossoms in March-April, filling the air with bliss.

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This secluded garden provides a serene and tranquil atmosphere, allowing visitors to let go of any bottled-up emotions. Situated about 16 kilometers from the city, the nature park is along a side road that branches off from the Shimla-Naldehra road, making it easily accessible for a refreshing escape.

2. Himalayan Nature Park, Kufri

Perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, the Himalayan Nature Park in Kufri is a must-see destination. It is home to over 180 different species of birds and animals, showcasing the diverse wildlife of the Himalayas. Located just 16 kilometers from Shimla, this park offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the beauty of nature up close.

3. Fun World, Kufri

When you are up in the mountains, enjoying thrilling activities with the majestic Himalayan ranges as your backdrop is an unforgettable experience. Located at an altitude of 2,800 meters, Fun World in Kufri boasts the highest go-kart track and other exciting activities that you will remember forever.

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You can find Kufri Fun World right next to NH 05 on the Shimla-Fagu road, just 18 kilometers from the main city. It is the perfect spot to have a blast and make some unforgettable memories.

4. Shali Tibba

Shali Tibba Temple offers stunning panoramic views of the towering peaks and deep valleys below. Dedicated to goddess Bhima Kali, this divine temple can be reached only after a challenging uphill trek from Khatnol village.

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To get to Khatnol, you can hop on a local bus or hire a taxi. The road distance from Shimla to Khatnol is 45 kilometers. It is definitely a trek worth undertaking for the breathtaking scenery and spiritual experience awaiting at the top.

5. Naldehra

A big grassy field surrounded by tall, dark trees has been captivating people for a long time. Lord Curzon, who used to be in charge of India, even named his daughter Naldehra after this beautiful place. In Naldehra, there is a golf course with 18 holes, which adds to its appeal.

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You can also take a walk through the forest and up the hill to see amazing views and enjoy the fresh smell of the trees. You will also hear birds singing. It is easy to get to Naldehra by bus or taxi, and it is about 23 kilometers from the city. It is a great place to visit for a day if you love nature or golf.

6. Hatu Peak, Narkanda

Hatu Peak is one of the tallest peaks in the hills near Shimla. While there is a road you can drive up, hiking through the forest from Narkanda offers a more immersive experience of the hills.

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At the summit, you will find a temple dedicated to the goddess Kali, known for slaying demons. The temple showcases local architecture and wood craftsmanship. The 360-degree views from the peak are breathtaking, making the trek well worth it. Along the way, you will pass through a dense oak forest and reach Jaw Bagh, a beautiful alpine meadow, adding to the scenic charm of the journey.

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To reach Hatu Peak, you first need to travel by road to Narkanda, which is about 64 kilometers from Shimla. From there, you can either take a taxi or embark on an 8-kilometer trek through the forest to reach the mountain-top destination. It is a journey filled with natural beauty and cultural richness.

7. Bhimakali Temple, Sarahan

The Bhimakali Temple in Sarahan is a remarkable multi-storied temple complex built like a hill fortress, dedicated to the powerful Hindu goddess Bhimakali. Situated in the beautiful surroundings of Sarahan, it offers stunning views of the snow-covered peaks nearby. This temple is held in high reverence and attracts many pilgrims throughout the year.

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Getting to Sarahan is easy as there are regular public and private transport options available. If you prefer a more comfortable journey, you can hire a taxi from Shimla for the 180-kilometer trip. It is a must-visit destination for those seeking spiritual solace amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

8. Hatkoti Temple Rohru

Hatkoti is a picturesque place located about 100 kilometers from Shimla, on the right side of the Pabbar River. It is known for its lush green paddy fields and almond orchards, creating a beautiful scenery. Here, you will find a stone temple complex dedicated to the warrior Goddess Durga. The temple is built with local materials and showcases the architectural style typical of the valley.

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To reach Hatkoti, you can catch public or private buses that regularly travel on the Shimla to Rohru route. These buses often make a stop at Hatkoti to drop off and pick up passengers. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi from Shimla or Rohru for a more comfortable journey to Hatkoti. It is a lovely destination for those seeking natural beauty and cultural richness.

9. The Ridge

The Ridge is a big open area next to The Mall Road in Shimla, where lots of cultural activities happen. On nice days, you can see amazing views of the snowy Himalayan mountains. Important things to see here include the Christ Church, the state library, a statue of Mahatma Gandhi, the Gaiety Theater, and the Town Hall. There is also an old underground reservoir that still provides water for the city.

10. The Mall Road

The Mall is like the main street of Shimla, where lots of businesses are located. It is below The Ridge and is full of cool shops, restaurants, and stores. You can find modern shops, big stores, and trendy places to eat. The Gaiety Theater and Town Hall are also on this street.

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At one end, there is a shop called Himachal Emporium where you can buy local crafts and handmade stuff. Scandal Point, where The Ridge and The Mall meet, is a fun spot to hear the latest news and gossip.

11. Viceregal Lodge

The Viceregal Lodge, built in 1888, was one of the grandest and earliest buildings in India to have electricity. Designed by architect Henry Irwin, it looks like a castle from Scotland. A lot of important events in history happened here. One room still has the table where the borders of Pakistan were decided.

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After India gained independence, the building became part of the Presidential Estate. Later, President S Radhakrishnan gave it to promote higher education. Now it is home to the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies. People of all ages can visit some parts of the lodge.

12. Annandale

Annandale is the biggest flat area in Shimla and has been used for lots of fun things like fairs, horse races, and sports like polo, golf, tennis, cricket, and football. In 1888, the first Durand Football Tournament happened here.

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Getting to Annandale involves a steep slope. Nowadays, it is mainly used as a helipad, but there is also a golf course and an Army Heritage Museum that you should check out when you visit.

13. Jakhoo Temple

Jakhoo Hill is the highest point in Shimla, standing tall at 2,445 meters above sea level. It is where you will find Jakhoo Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. To reach the temple, you have to tackle a challenging uphill climb that takes about half an hour from The Ridge. But don’t worry, there is also a ropeway service available if you prefer an easier way up.

14. Chadwick Falls

Just a short walk from Summer Hill, you will find the stunning Chadwick Falls. It is best to visit during the rainy season from July to September when the waterfall is at its most beautiful. When it rains, water rushes down the rocks, creating a lovely sight. The green surroundings make it even more picturesque and peaceful. It is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sound of the water. If you are in Shimla during the rainy months, make sure to check out the charming Chadwick Falls.

15 Tara Devi Temple

At the eastern edge of Tara Devi hill, there is a new temple made of wood and stone, with a classic hill architecture style and a roof made of slate. From here, you can see amazing views all around. Sometimes, on special days, the temple hosts a free lunch for everyone. To get here, you can take a scenic drive uphill from the highway at Shoghi. This temple is dedicated to the goddess Tara Devi. You can also reach the temple by trekking from Tara Devi station, which is another option for visiting this sacred place.

16. Kali Bari Temple

The Kali Bari temple was constructed in 1845 by a Bengali Brahmin. It is dedicated to the goddess Kali, who is believed to slay evil. You can easily walk to this temple from The Mall Road. Since it was built, the temple has been a popular place of worship for Hindus in the town and for visiting members of the Bengali community.

17. Sankat Mochan Temple

Just as you arrive in Shimla, there is a quick downhill turn from the highway near Tara Devi hill that leads to Sankat Mochan. This temple, built in 1950, is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, who is known as a deity that helps solve problems. It is about 5 kilometers away from the city center. Every Tuesday and Sunday, all year round, the temple hosts a free lunch for everyone, courtesy of the devotees.

How to Reach Shimla

By Air: You can take a flight from Delhi to Shimla Airport, which is about 23 kilometers away from the city.

By Train: Enjoy the scenic views on the Kalka-Shimla railway line, which has 102 tunnels. Trains run regularly between Delhi and Kalka, where you can switch to the Kalka-Shimla train.

By Road: Shimla is easily accessible by road. Buses operate between Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla. You can also find buses to other towns in Himachal Pradesh. Taxis are available in the city upon request.

Parking: There are several parking options in Shimla, including ISBT Shimla, Tutikandi Crossing, Lift Parking, Railway Station, Old Bus Stand parking, Chhota Shimla Parking, and Sanjauli Parking.

Best Time To Visit Shimla

Here is a breakdown of the best times to visit Shimla, depending on what kind of experience you are seeking:

March to June: Summer Delight

• Perfect for clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and outdoor activities.
• Ideal if you dislike crowds and prefer a pleasant, warm climate.

September to November: Post-Monsoon Charm

• Lush, green landscapes emerge after the monsoon rains.
• Lower crowds and a pleasant, crisp atmosphere.
• Great for those who enjoy nature walks and quiet retreats.

December to February: Winter Wonderland

• Snowfall transforms Shimla into a magical winter escape.
• Ideal for snow lovers and winter sports enthusiasts.
• Expect heavier crowds and higher prices during this peak season.

Things To Do In Shimla In December

Shimla becomes a winter wonderland in December, offering a unique charm and plenty of exciting activities:

• Experience Snowfall: If you are lucky, you could witness Shimla draped in a pristine white blanket of snow. Enjoy building snowmen, having snowball fights, or simply reveling in the magical landscape.
• Winter Sports at Kufri: A short drive from Shimla, Kufri transforms into a hub for winter sports. Try skiing, tobogganing, or ice skating amidst the snow-covered hills.
• The Ridge at Christmas: The Ridge, Shimla is an iconic central plaza, that comes alive with Christmas festivities. Enjoy the decorations, carols, and the Christ Church illuminated against the backdrop of a possible snowy landscape.
• Shop at Mall Road: Explore the bustling Mall Road for cozy winter wear, souvenirs, and local handicrafts. Don’t forget to indulge in some delicious hot snacks and beverages.
• Take the Kalka-Shimla Toy Train: Enjoy a scenic ride on the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kalka-Shimla Toy Train. The views of snow-laden mountains and valleys are simply breathtaking.
• Visit Jakhoo Temple: Hike to the Jakhoo Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The walk through the snow-covered forest and the panoramic views of Shimla from the top are rewarding.
• Explore local cafes and bakeries: Shimla has a host of cozy cafes and bakeries. Warm up with a steaming cup of coffee and indulge in some delicious treats.

Park In Shimla

Here are some popular parks in Shimla where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty:

• Rani Jhansi Park: Located near Mall Road, this park is dedicated to the courageous Rani Lakshmi Bai. It features a children’s play area, and beautiful flower beds, and offers lovely views of the city.
• Himalayan Aviary (Himalayan Bird Park): This park is home to a multitude of Himalayan bird species. Stroll through the aviary, take in the sights of vibrant birds like the Himalayan Monal, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
• Daulat Singh Park: Situated on the Ridge, this small yet scenic park provides a tranquil respite from the bustle of Shimla. Relax on the benches and take in the panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills.
• The Glen: Situated a few kilometers from the main city center, The Glen is a picturesque spot for a picnic. It boasts a cascading waterfall, lush greenery, and a quaint walking trail.

Conclusion

In December, Shimla becomes a magical place with snow covering everything. From strolling along the Mall Road to trying out fun activities like ice skating and skiing, there is so much to do. You can also visit historic places like Christ Church or take a scenic train ride. Shimla in December is full of adventure and beauty, making it a perfect winter getaway for everyone to enjoy and create unforgettable memories.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions about Places to visit in Shimla in December