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Indian City Travel Guide >> Shimla |
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| Main Languages |
Hindi, Himachali, Garhwali, English |
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| Population | Approx. 1,23,000 | ||
| Area | 18 sq. km | ||
| October to March | April to Mid-July, Mid-September to Mid-November | ||
| Temperature | Summer-Max: 27oC
Min:14oC Winter-Max: 16oC Min: 5.2oC |
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| Main Attraction | |||
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About Shimla |
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Also known as The Summer Refuge of the British today, Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and is truly a "Destination for all seasons ". Shimla derives its name from goddess "Shayamla Devi", another manifestation of Goddess Kali. Green pastures and snow-capped peaks surround the hilly town. The Mall, packed with shops and eateries, is the centre of attraction of the town. |
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| Attractions In & Around | |||
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Christ Church :- Christ Church is the second
oldest church of Northern India and it overlooks the ridge and is one of
the landmarks of Shimla. The exquisite beauty comes with the stained
glasses fitted on its windows. Himachal State Museum & Library :- The museum is located 2.5 kms. west of the scandal point. It has got a good collection of ancient historical sculptures, paintings, coins, photos and other items from all over the state and outside. It also has a library housing many historical books and manuscripts. Himalayan Aviary :- Himalayan Aviary or the Himalayan Bird 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. Kufri :- About 16 kms. from Shimla is the this hill famous for its trekking and hiking trails. It is also known for nature parks and picnic spots. It also has a Potato Research Station. Narkanda :- On the Hindustan Tibet road, Narkanda offers spectacular views of snow ranges and an uphill trek through Deodar woods leads to Hatu Peak. The ancient temple of Hatu Mata is alive with skiers. Taptapani :- Situated on the bank of river Sutlej it is well known for its hot springs having sulpher contents. The Hindu temples and Shiv Goofa at Saraur are worth seeing. Viceregal Lodge & Botanical Garden :- Also known as "Rashtrapati Niwas" this six-storey building surrounded by well-maintained gardens and lawns is located on the Observatory Hills. It was the residence of the British Viceroy Lord Dufferin. This lodge was completed in 1888 and it is said that mules carried every brick for the building. It has now been converted into Institute of Advanced Study. Getting in, Around & Away AIR : Shimla Airport is 23 kms from the city connected by regular flights from Delhi and Kullu. RAIL : Shimla is connected by a narrow guage railway line with Kalka (90 kms), which in turn is connected with the major cities in India. Tourist Information Center 1 Tourist Information Centers (Govt) Shimla: Department of Tourism & Civil Aviation Shimla-171001, Himachal Pradesh Tel: - (0177)-203346, 3517. Fax: - 203346, 4973. (b) H.P Tourism Development Corporation Ritz Annexe, Shimla-171001. Tel :- (0177)-203294 Fax :- 203434. (c) Himachal Tourism Information Centre, Shimla Phone: 91-177-214311, 78302 Fax: 91-177-212591 |
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