Shimla City Walk Experience

By flight:
It is a 55minutes flight from Delhi (DEL) Airport to Chandigarh (IXC) Airport. This journey will cost USD27-120. From there, walk for 7 minutes, approximately 624 metres and you will reach Behlana. Take bus 17/143 from Behlana to Isbt-17. Alight after 7 stops (Hallo Majra Chowk (6m), Mall (9m), sector 29 Market (11m), Sector 30 Market (11m), Sector 20 (15m), Sector 21 (16m), Aroma (17m)) and finally Isbt-17. This will cost you USD1 and take you 19 minutes. Then, make a transfer at Chandigarh. Board the RSRTC Super Luxury Bus and alight after 1 stop. This journey will take you USD2-3 and take around 1 hour 40 minutes.

By train:
Take the train from Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) to Kalka. You would have to board the subway Orange Line from IGI to New Delhi station. This would take 30 minutes and cost USD1. Then make a transfer at New Delhi station and board the train towards Kalka. Please check the daily schedules beforehand to know which train you should be boarding at what time. From Kalka, the cab costs approximately USD24-30 and it would take about 1 hour 45 minutes to get there.

In order to discover the best of what this city has to offer, we would recommend getting an experienced guide.

This hill retreat is home to a multitude of famous sights such as Jakhoo Temple and Tatapani which is known for its hot water springs that are said to provide relief for ailments ranging from fatigue to even reducing fat!

If you're interested in shopping, head down to mall road which is located in the mains street of Shimla which is filled with departmental stores and cafes. Indian Coffee house is one of the only stores at mall road that maintains the charm and authenticity of the past and is frequented even by the locals.

Or, if you're more interested in the local markets, head down to Lakkar Bazaar which is filled with exotic and authentic artifacts, unique to that of North-East India. They are especially famous for their wooden works, particularly their intricately carved walking sticks. Don't hesitate to haggle for prices and you might even get more than a 50% discount.

And finally, what better way is there to get to know a culture than food!
Shimla is also famous for its traditional food such as Madra and Dhaam. For those that are hungry for authentic Himachali cuisine, Ashiana & Goofa will satisfy that craving. Offering a spectacular at the base of the mountain, this restaurant is beloved by locals and tourists alike.
If you're looking for some fusion food, Baljee's Fascination offers a diverse Italian-Indian menu. Gulab Jamuns, a Himalachi breakfast is a definite must-try.

For the ultimate cultural experience, ask your tour guide for recommendations on the hidden gems only known to locals.