Chapter 18: Value Addition Information of the City

1. About Shimla

Shimla, often referred to as the "Queen of Hills," is the capital of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Nestled in the northwestern Himalayas at an elevation of about 2,205 meters (7,234 feet), the city boasts a unique blend of colonial charm and modern vibrancy. Established as the summer capital of British India in the 19th century, Shimla today is a prominent destination for tourists, students, and nature lovers alike. Known for its pleasant weather, scenic landscapes, and historical architecture, Shimla provides a refreshing retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

2. Importance of Shimla

Shimla holds cultural, historical, strategic, and educational significance:

Tourism Hub: It’s one of India’s most visited hill stations, especially popular among domestic honeymooners and international nature lovers.
Historical Significance: Once the summer capital of the British Raj, Shimla is dotted with colonial-era buildings and stories.
Educational Center: The city houses reputed institutions such as Himachal Pradesh University, Indian Institute of Advanced Study, and Bishop Cotton School.
Governmental Importance: As the state capital, Shimla hosts the offices of the Chief Minister and the Governor, along with several administrative departments.
Climate and Environment: The cool climate and dense forest cover make it an ecological zone worth preserving and a retreat for health and wellness.

3. How to Reach Shimla

Shimla is well-connected via road, rail, and air:

By Air

Jubbarhatti Airport is the nearest airport, about 22 km from the city. Limited flights connect it to Delhi and Chandigarh.
For international and broader domestic connectivity, Chandigarh Airport is a more practical option.

By Rail

Kalka-Shimla Railway: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this narrow-gauge railway offers a scenic and nostalgic ride from Kalka to Shimla, passing through 102 tunnels and 864 bridges.
Kalka is well-connected with major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.

By Road

Shimla is accessible through well-maintained highways from cities like Chandigarh (113 km), Delhi (342 km), and Manali (248 km).
Regular bus services (HRTC and private), taxis, and self-drive options are available.

4. Staying Facility in Shimla

There are many hotels are available for staying in Shimla. Shimla offers a wide range of accommodation facilities to suit every budget. Few of them are can be categorised as:

Luxury Hotels

The Oberoi Cecil
Wildflower Hall (Oberoi)
Clarkes Hotel

Mid-Range Hotels

Hotel Willow Banks
Honeymoon Inn
Hotel Marina

Budget and Guest Houses

YMCA Shimla
Hotel Shingar
Various homestays and Airbnb options

Government Guest Houses

Himachal Tourism’s hotels like The Peterhof and Holiday Home offer good quality at reasonable rates.

Booking in advance is advisable during peak seasons (May-June and December-January).

5. Tourist Attractions and Their Briefing

1. The Ridge

The cultural heart of Shimla, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. It’s also a venue for fairs, festivals, and social gatherings.

The Ridge is a large, open space and the central hub of Shimla, a bustling area with a mix of historical buildings, cultural attractions, and shops. It's located in the heart of Shimla and is a popular spot for people to walk, enjoy the scenery, and experience the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Here's a more detailed look at what The Ridge offers:

Key Features:

Central Location:

The Ridge is situated in the center of Shimla, connecting Mall Road and other key attractions.

Walkable Space:

It's a traffic-free area, making it ideal for leisurely strolls and taking in the views.

Historical Buildings:

The Ridge is home to several historic buildings, including the Christ Church, Hawa Ghar, and the Gaiety Theatre complex.

Statues and Monuments:

You'll find statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Lieutenant-General Daulat Singh, and other notable figures.

Scenic Views:

The Ridge offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Himalayas.

Shopping and Dining:

The Ridge is connected to Mall Road, a popular shopping and dining area with various shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Cultural Activities:

The Ridge is a hub for cultural events and festivals, contributing to Shimla's vibrant atmosphere.

2. Mall Road

Shimla’s main street bustling with cafes, shops, and colonial-style buildings. Ideal for evening strolls and local shopping.

Shimla's Mall Road is a vibrant pedestrian-only street and a major attraction, serving as the financial, commercial, and business center of the city. It's known for its historical buildings, shops, restaurants, and cafes. The road also boasts a unique ice-skating rink.

Key Features and Attractions:

Shopping: The Mall Road offers a variety of shops selling woollen clothes, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

Dining: You'll find numerous restaurants and cafes along the street, providing diverse dining options.

Historical Buildings: The road features colonial-era architecture, including the Gaiety Theatre and Christ Church.

Ice Skating: A unique ice-skating rink is located on Mall Road, open to the public.

Scenic Views: The road offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Nearby Attractions: The Mall Road is close to other popular destinations like The Ridge, Scandal Point, and Jakhu Temple.

3. Jakhoo Temple

Located at the highest point in Shimla, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and offers sweeping views of the town.

Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, believed to have been built centuries ago to honor his visit to the location during his search for the Sanjeevani herb. According to the Ramayana, Hanuman stopped at Jakhu Hill, where he met sage Yaaku. The temple is also known for its colossal 108-foot statue of Hanuman, unveiled in 2010.

Here's a more detailed look at the temple's history:

Mythological Significance:

The Jakhu Temple is closely linked to the Ramayana, where Hanuman is said to have sought refuge on Jakhu Hill while searching for the Sanjeevani herb (Sanjeevani Booti) to revive Lakshmana.

Meeting with Sage Yaaku:

During his visit, Hanuman is said to have met sage Yaaku and spent time resting on the hilltop.

Temple Construction:

To honor Hanuman's visit, sage Yaaku is believed to have built the temple, and it's thought that the temple site holds Hanuman's footprints.

108-Foot Statue:

A giant 108-foot statue of Hanuman was erected at the temple in 2010, making it a prominent landmark in Shimla.

Monkey Guardians:

The temple is also known for its playful, yet sometimes mischievous, monkey population, which are believed to be part of Hanuman's vanar sena (monkey army).

4. Christ Church

The second oldest church in North India, built in neo-Gothic style. Its stained-glass windows are especially remarkable.

Christ Church in Shimla, India, was built in 1857 in a neo-Gothic style, designed by Colonel J.T. Boileau and consecrated by Bishop Wilson of Calcutta. It became the first church in Shimla and the second in northern India, serving the British and Anglo-Indian Christian community. The church has a nave, chancel, and tower, with a center aisle and side aisles.

Key Historical Points:

Foundation and Construction:
The cornerstone was laid on September 9, 1844, and the church was consecrated on January 10, 1857.
Design and Features:
The church was built with stone and brick in a lime mortar, incorporating neo-Gothic elements. It features a grand pipe organ installed in 1899 and five stained-glass windows representing Christian virtues.
Architect and Inspiration:
Colonel J.T. Boileau, a military officer and the chief architect of the church, also designed other notable structures in Shimla, including the Viceregal Lodge.
Significance:
Christ Church was designed to accommodate the entire Shimla congregation, becoming a central gathering place for worship and a symbol of British presence in the hill station.
Ongoing Maintenance:
The church has undergone renovations and repairs over time, but retains its original architectural essence.
Cultural Impact:
The church's silhouette is a prominent landmark in Shimla, visible from various parts of the city and serving as a reminder of Shimla's rich history.

5. Kufri

Just 16 km from Shimla, Kufri is famous for snow activities during winter and adventure parks.

Kufri, a hill station near Shimla, was once part of the Kingdom of Nepal before being ceded to the British after the Sugauli Treaty. It remained relatively unknown until the British discovered it in 1819 and developed Shimla and its surroundings into summer retreats. Shimla itself was designated as the British summer capital in 1864 and continued to be so until 1939. Kufri gained prominence as a nearby attraction as Shimla's importance grew.

Key Historical Points:

Pre-British Era: Kufri was part of the Kingdom of Nepal.
British Discovery: The British "discovered" Kufri in 1819, leading to the development of Shimla and its surroundings.
British Summer Capital: Shimla became the British summer capital in 1864, making Kufri a popular nearby destination.

6. Indian Institute of Advanced Study

Housed in the former Viceregal Lodge, this is a historical building and research institute open to guided tours.

The Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS) in Shimla was established in 1964, with operations commencing on October 20, 1965. It's housed in the former Viceregal Lodge, the residence of British viceroys of India during the colonial era. The building, originally called the Viceregal Lodge, was built between 1884 and 1888 as a home for Lord Dufferin, the Viceroy of India.

Key Historical Points:

Construction:
The Viceregal Lodge, now IIAS, was designed by Henry Irwin, an architect in the Public Works Department, and is known for its Scottish castle-like architecture.
Viceregal Residence:
The lodge served as the summer residence for various British viceroys and governors-general of India.
Shimla Conference:
The building hosted important events like the Shimla Conference in 1945 and the Shimla Cabinet Mission in 1946, leading up to Indian independence.
Post-Independence:
After independence, the building was used as the President's Residency (Rashtrapati Niwas).
IIAS Establishment:
In 1965, the building was handed over to the Ministry of Education, which established the IIAS within its walls.

7. Annandale

Once a playground for the British, now used by the Indian Army. It features a museum and golf course.

The place-name means 'valley of the Annan' from the Celtic river-name Annan (which means 'water'). Middle English Early Scots dale translates to 'dale valley'. Compare Annan.

Annadale was first used by East India Company and then the British Raj, which is why natives originally called it "Company Ka Baag". It was a place of enjoyment and entertainment for the British, offering fancy dress shows, picnics, and birthday celebrations.

8. Tara Devi Temple

Perched atop a hill, this temple offers spiritual solace and a tranquil setting for meditation.

The abode of the 'Star Goddess' Devotees are enveloped in a sacred and reverent atmosphere inside Tara Devi Temple's sanctum sanctorum. Tara Devi, also known as the "Star Goddess," is revered here as a benevolent guardian and bestower of blessings.

By Road: Tara Devi Temple is located 15.3 kilometres west of Shimla, along NH22 (Kalka-Shimla National Highway).

9. Chadwick Falls

A beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush forests, best visited during monsoon. Chadwick Falls is located about 7 kilometres from Shimla. Tourists can rent taxis to reach the falls inside the Glen Forest. Those exploring by self-driven vehicles can take the route to the fall via Cart Road and Chaura Maidan Road.

Chadwick Falls is a must-visit spot in Shimla, offering a wonderful trekking experience amidst nature's beauty.

The waterfall lands amidst the Glen forests of Shimla, surrounded by the canopy of pine and deodar trees. The history of Chadwick Waterfalls dates back to the British era. It is said that Chadwick Waterfall was earlier named 'Chidku Jhaar', where 'Chidku' means sparrow and 'Jhaar' means Jharna, that is waterfall.

10. Shimla State Museum

Home to rich cultural, historical, and archaeological collections that narrate Himachal Pradesh’s story.

The Shimla State Museum, also known as the Himachal State Museum, is a cultural museum in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India. It houses a diverse collection of artifacts, including wood carvings, bronzes, archaeological items, coins, jewelry, manuscripts, and paintings, including miniatures. The museum is located in a historic mansion called Inverarm, which was originally a small mud-roofed house in the early 1860s, says the museum's website.

Key aspects of the museum:

Location: Inverarm Hill, 2.5 km west of Scandal Point, Shimla.
History: The museum was inaugurated in 1974 and is housed in the historic Inverarm mansion, which was once the private residence of Lord William Beresford, the Military Secretary to the Viceroy of India
Collection: Features a wide range of artifacts, including wood carvings, bronzes, archaeological finds, coins, jewelry, manuscripts, paintings, and more.
Exhibitions: The museum hosts various exhibitions and events, such as "Electricity: The Spark of Life", "Wooden Art", "Original Painting", "Modern Art", and "Reflections: Shade of Face", according to the museum's website.
Opening Hours: Open from 10 AM to 5 PM, except on Mondays and public holidays.

6. Conclusion

Shimla is not just a destination—it’s an experience that blends nature, heritage, and comfort. Its historical legacy, stunning landscapes, and modern infrastructure make it an ideal getaway and a valuable location for educational trips, administrative engagements, and tourism-related research. With convenient access, diverse accommodations, and a range of attractions, Shimla holds its timeless charm and continues to be a jewel in India's tourism crown. Whether you're planning a short visit or an extended stay, Shimla promises to leave you refreshed, inspired, and wanting more.

#Search This #Blog " #Career #Education for #Success - #Discover #Apply #Succeed"

CAREER EDUCATION for SUCCESS "Discover, Apply, Succeed "!