Shimla – a name that is synonymous with the word ‘romance’. But there is an entirely different side to this gorgeous city. It is the home to immensely admired architecture established during the British Raj, and the fascinating history of Shimla is completely worth your time even if you are not on a honeymoon!

The rich architectural history of Shimla has had many spellbound by its intricate wooden details and western designs. Let’s go through some of the best historic buildings of Shimla that will take us back in time.

The Vice Regal Lodge

The Vice Regal Lodge, Shimla by Nagesh Kamath

This spectacular Lodge, which is also known as the Rashtrapati Niwas, has a lot of history behind it. With a jaw-dropping entrance and a garden outside the building that has been maintained impeccably, visitors love to sit there for hours soaking in the grandeur of this building. To see the well-preserved interiors of the building, tickets can be bought from the counter which also extends into a souvenir shop which has pretty postcards and unusual collectable items. An informative guided tour is available inside the structure that leaves one beyond mesmerised.

The Christ Church

The Christ Church, Shimla by Krishna G S

The most outstanding building at the mall road of Shimla is the 155 years old Christ Church.  A feeling of peace and comfort gushes into the heart as soon as you enter this magnificent Church, which was built in a neo-gothic style. The long wooden benches, the stained windows and the huge chandeliers will keep you enchanted and hooked for hours.

Town Hall

Town Hall, Shimla by Aleksandr Zykov

While browsing through the shops and cafes in Mall Road, you may stumble upon a large fleet of steps, which will lead you to one of the most prominent buildings in Shimla, the Town Hall. This gorgeous stone structure was built in the year 1910 and will instantly remind you of the colonial period. It now serves as the Municipal Corporation Office and has been renovated according to specific needs.

Kali Bari Temple

Kali Bari Temple, Shimla by tourmyindia

Built in the year 1845, this temple is one of the oldest and biggest in Shimla. Perched on top of a hill, devotees have to walk up the narrow path that has little shops selling worship materials. The idol inside the temple is a fearsome incarnation of Goddess Kali, which has been made of wood. Millions of devotees flock here every year to offer their prayers.

Gaiety Theatre

Gaiety Theatre, Shimla by Ajar

This theatre is considered to be the pride of Shimla. It was constructed in the year 1887 and is still the cultural and social hub of the city. Standing inside the theatre facing the stage, the grand structure will already transport you to the British times in India. The cosy yet majestic interiors give the theatre a very vintage look and if that is not enough to hold you there, then maybe looking at pictures of Rudyard Kipling acting on the stage may change your heart!

The thriving Shimla tourism makes it an easily reachable destination. One can take a flight (nearest airport being Jubbarhatti), a train, a bus and even a self-driven car to this misty city. And there is a plethora of options for luxury as well as budget hotels in Shimla. So get started with the planning and take a delightful trip to the Queen of Hills.