Tourism in Shimla: A Complete Travel Guide with a 3-Day Itinerary

Tourism in Shimla continues to thrive thanks to its timeless colonial charm, cool mountain climate, and scenic Himalayan setting. Once the summer capital of British India, Shimla blends heritage architecture, forested hills, and lively promenades, making it a year-round destination for leisure travellers. From heritage walks and panoramic viewpoints to cafe hopping and nearby nature escapes, Shimla offers a well-rounded holiday experience for couples, families, and solo travellers alike.

Shimla Tour from Delhi: Travel Options and Best Time to Visit

A Shimla tour from Delhi is one of the most popular hill journeys in North India, offering multiple travel options depending on time and comfort preferences.

By road: The distance from Delhi to Shimla is approximately 350 km, with a travel time of 7–9 hours depending on traffic and weather. The route via Chandigarh and Kalka is well-maintained and scenic, especially after entering Himachal Pradesh.

A breathtaking sunrise over forested mountains seen from The Manor Sports & Wellness Hotel, with a view of winding roads and lush green valleys.

A train seen on a platform in a railway station

By train: Travellers can take a broad-gauge train from Delhi to Kalka, followed by the UNESCO-listed Kalka–Shimla narrow-gauge toy train. While slower, this journey is valued for its views, tunnels, and historic charm.
By air: Shimla is served by Jubbarhatti Airport, located around 23 km from the city centre. Limited direct flights operate from Delhi, subject to weather conditions.

Best Seasons to Travel:

March to June for pleasant weather and sightseeing
October to December for clear skies and early winter charm
January to February for snowfall, though road access may be affected during heavy snow

A view of a lush green valley with the sun shining through the clouds in the distant horizon.

The historic Christ Church in Shimla, with its pale stone tower rising above a busy pedestrian area.

Shimla Itinerary for 3 Days

A well-planned Shimla itinerary for 3 days allows travellers to explore the town’s highlights while leaving room for relaxation.

Day 1: Colonial Landmarks and City Highlights

Morning: Start with a walk along Mall Road and The Ridge, followed by a visit to the iconic Christ Church.
Afternoon: Head to Jakhu Temple, set amid peaceful deodar forests, and enjoy panoramic views from Shimla’s highest point.
Evening: Watch the sunset at Scandal Point, then spend time browsing Mall Road or relaxing at a cafe.

Day 2: Nature and Nearby Excursions

Morning: Visit Kufri for open landscapes and viewpoints, or explore Naldehra, known for its golf course and cedar forests.
Afternoon: Return to Shimla for a leisurely lunch and some downtime—spa, café hopping, or rest.
Evening: Enjoy a calm walk on The Ridge or unwind in the cool mountain air.

A golf ball resting next to the hole and the flag pole on a very green, well-maintained putting green.

A bustling, narrow commercial street lined with tall buildings and signs, leading up a hill in a town.

Day 3: Leisure, Shopping, and Local Experiences

Morning: Shop at Lakkar Bazaar and Mall Road for handicrafts and woollens.
Afternoon: Take a short heritage walk or visit scenic spots like Green Valley.
Evening: End your trip with a quiet café visit or a final stroll before departure.

Experiences That Enrich Tourism in Shimla

Tourism in Shimla goes beyond sightseeing. Scenic viewpoints such as Scandal Point and Green Valley offer memorable vistas, while heritage buildings reflect the town’s colonial past. Local cafes provide a cosy break from walking, and cultural landmarks add depth to the travel experience. Seasonal festivals and winter snowfall further enhance Shimla’s year-round appeal.

A steep, wide expanse of white snow with numerous ski tracks running through it, high in the mountains.

An expansive view of Shimla, showcasing densely packed colourful buildings on rolling hills

Practical Travel Tips for Shimla

Ideal visiting months: March to June for sightseeing; winter months for snow lovers
Packing suggestions: Layered clothing year-round; warm jackets and waterproof footwear in winter
Local transport: Taxis are widely available; walking is practical in central areas
Crowd avoidance: Start sightseeing early in the morning and explore nearby areas outside peak hours

Where to Stay: The Manor Sports & Wellness Hotel

The Manor Sports & Wellness Hotel is situated away from Shimla’s busy town centre, offering a quieter setting while remaining well connected to the city’s main attractions and nearby scenic areas. The hotel offers comfortable accommodations suited to short breaks as well as longer stays. On-site dining allows travellers to enjoy meals without returning to the city each evening, while the hotel’s spa and wellness facilities provide a space to unwind after full days of sightseeing.

A range of sports and recreational activities is available on the property, adding variety to the stay and complementing Shimla’s outdoor-focused travel experience. These activities offer an alternative to sightseeing-heavy days and support a more balanced itinerary.

A women receiving back massage in a room which has other massage and spa products - The Manor Luxury Apartments, Shimla

The hotel also features seasonal and stay-based offers, which may include value-added inclusions or wellness-focused packages depending on the time of year. These offers are designed to enhance the overall stay rather than replace time spent exploring Shimla. With its natural surroundings, wellness amenities, and convenient access to both the city and nearby excursions, The Manor Sports & Wellness Hotel provides a well-rounded base for exploring Shimla at a comfortable pace.

Tourism in Shimla remains popular for good reason—it offers a blend of heritage, nature, and leisure that fits comfortably into a short holiday. With convenient travel options from Delhi and a thoughtfully planned Shimla itinerary for 3 days, travellers can experience the town’s highlights without feeling rushed. A stay at The Manor Sports & Wellness Hotel further enhances the journey by pairing scenic surroundings with comfort and easy access to the region’s attractions.

FAQ

1. What makes tourism in Shimla popular throughout the year?
Tourism in Shimla is popular year-round due to its colonial heritage, scenic Himalayan setting, and seasonal variety. Pleasant summers suit sightseeing, while winter attracts visitors seeking snowfall and mountain views.

2. What are the best ways to plan a Shimla tour from Delhi?
A Shimla tour from Delhi can be planned by road, train, or air. Road travel takes around 7–9 hours, trains run via Kalka with a scenic toy train connection, and limited flights operate to Jubbarhatti Airport.

3. Is a Shimla itinerary for 3 days enough to explore the destination?
A Shimla itinerary for 3 days is ideal for covering city landmarks, nearby excursions like Kufri or Naldehra, leisure time on Mall Road, and relaxed sightseeing without rushing through attractions.

4. How does The Manor Sports & Wellness Hotel fit into a Shimla travel itinerary?
The Manor Sports & Wellness Hotel complements tourism in Shimla by offering a peaceful base away from crowded areas while remaining well connected to key attractions, making it suitable for a balanced 3-day itinerary.

5. What amenities and experiences does The Manor Sports & Wellness Hotel offer for Shimla travellers?
The Manor Sports & Wellness Hotel provides comfortable accommodations, on-site dining, spa and wellness facilities, sports and recreational activities, and seasonal offers, supporting both active exploration and relaxation during a Shimla stay.