A Simple, Happy Trip to Shimla
Last winter I decided to take a short break from the city and visit Shimla, the charming hill‑station in Himachal Pradesh. The whole journey felt like a breath of fresh air, and I want to share the easy, everyday moments that made this trip special.
Getting There
I left early in the morning by train from Delhi. The ride to Kalka took about four hours, and the scenery changed quickly—from flat farmlands to green hills. From Kalka, I boarded the famous Kalka‑Shimla toy train. The narrow‑gauge railway chugs up the mountains, winding through tunnels and over charming bridges. The train ride itself was an adventure, and I loved watching the mist rise over the pine forests.
When the train finally pulled into Shimla station, the cool, crisp air welcomed me. I took a short auto‑rickshaw ride to my guesthouse in the town centre. The building was simple but clean, with a balcony that offered a tiny view of the surrounding hills.
Exploring the Town
My first stop was Mall Road, the heart of Shimla. The road is lined with colonial‑style buildings, little shops, and tea stalls. I walked slowly, stopping at a small bakery for a warm, buttery croissant and a cup of masala chai. The aroma of fresh tea and the chatter of locals created a cozy atmosphere.
Next, I visited the Christ Church, a beautiful stone building that glows pink at sunset. Inside, the wooden pews and stained glass windows give a feeling of quiet peace. From the church, I could see the whole town spread out below, dotted with red‑roofed houses.
A short walk took me to Jakhoo Hill, where a massive Hanuman statue stands. The climb was a bit steep, but the view from the top was worth every step. The whole valley stretched out, wrapped in fog and dotted with pine trees. I took a few photos, then rested on a bench, listening to the gentle breeze.
Food and Fun
Shimla’s food is simple yet tasty. I tried a local dish called chana madra, a spicy chickpea curry served with fluffy rice. For dessert, I ate pahadi jalebi, a sweet, spiraled treat that melted in my mouth. In the evenings, I joined a small group of travelers at a rooftop cafe. We shared stories, laughed, and watched the lights of the town twinkle as night fell.
A Calm Goodbye
On my last day, I walked to Vashisht Village, famous for its hot springs. A quick dip in the warm water helped my tired muscles relax. I sat on a stone wall, watching steam rise into the cool air, feeling grateful for the simple pleasures of the trip.
Leaving Shimla, I felt refreshed. The mountains, the gentle pace, and the friendly faces reminded me that sometimes the best vacations are the ones that let you slow down and enjoy the little things.
If you are looking for a short, peaceful getaway, Shimla is a perfect choice. Pack a warm coat, a good pair of walking shoes, and a curiosity for simple joys—you’ll come back with a heart full of happy memories.