The Exclusive Shimla-A Tourist Delight

Shimla is a celestial land, resting amongst the majestic Himalayan valleys. From solemn Mountainous peaks to exquisite handicraft bazaars, there are many things that may catch your fancy. Some of the most popular attractions of Shimla are as follows:

• The Church of Christ : The Christ Church is located at the centre of the Mall road; this beautiful erection is one of the oldest churches of Northern India. Colonel JT Boileau originally designed the Church in the year 1844. Colonel Dumbleton presented the ancestral clock to the church. There are numerous Churches in Shimla like St. Michael's Cathedral, Roman Catholic Church, etc.
            
• Picnic Hill : The summer hill is a major picnic spot, set at an altitude of 1283 metres; this place is the best place for family outings. Kids would enjoy the pleasant scenery and its relaxing atmosphere is ideal for taking a lovely stroll. The summer hill is situated at the Shimla-Kalka Rail lines. The famous Himachal Pradesh University for higher studies is placed nearby the summer hill.
               
• Sanctuary : The Churdhar Sanctuary holds legendry significance behind its name. It is derived from the wonderful statue of Lord Shiva sitting on the Chur Peak. This peak gives a majestic view of the whole sanctuary. It is home for numerous animals and kaleidoscopic variety that would amaze the tourist visitors.
               
• Temple of Jakhu : It pays homage to the Great Lord Hanuman. Situated at a majestic altitude of 2455 metres, it offers a mind-blowing view over the valley below, the glowing snow-covered peaks and the whole of the glorious city itself. It lies in close proximity to the Mall. The temple is the perfect point to watch the sunset and sunrise. Some of the other holy places are the Sanket Mochan mandir, the Tara Devi Temple and the Tibetan ancient monastery.
                 
• Chail : Previously, Chail was the summer resort of the Patiala Maharaja. Situated at an altitude of 2250 meters, it houses the world's best cricketing pitch and a polo playground. There is a beautiful palace, which has now been transformed into a sparkling hotel known as Chail Hotel.
                   
• Kasauli : a wonderful excursion point from Shimla, Kasauli Township lies en route to Kalka. Situated at a height of 197 meters above the ground, it holds the charm of olden days and the 19 th century era. Nature is at its best and you may experience the serene joy with a walk to Sanawar.
                
• Flower hall : The Flower hall is the pride of Chharabra, it has now been transformed into a wonderful hotel by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism department. During the British era, it was the residence of the England Chief Commander.

The summer time festivities in the city offer unique entertainments for the tourist visitors and the locals. Many skilled musicians and dancers come together in Shimla from all over India to take part in the cultural medley of songs and dancing. It is a wonderful time for all music lovers. Many shows are organized such as poetic Mushaira, the beautiful traditional folk dancing, fairs and flower shows. December month is gala with events and carnivals, popular with western counterparts. Handicraft items like shawls, embroidered and man-made chappals, wooden artefacts, fashion jewellery like earrings and bangles, and other decorative items can be brought in relatively cheap rates at Lakkar Bazaar and Tibetan market.