Hello travel admirers, Tanishqa Mishra here is your travel buddy!!!

In June, I embarked on a journey from Solan, seeking respite from Delhi’s bustling city life with my family. After a comfortable 7-hour Volvo bus ride costing 850 INR, I arrived in Solan to spend a few relaxing days with relatives. However, my adventurous spirit soon beckoned for more, leading us on an exciting day trip to Shimla, a nearby hill station I had yet to explore.

How do I get from Solan to Shimla?

Excitedly, we started our journey in our car, eager to experience Shimla, even though we had limited time.

It was a scenic 50-kilometre route that wound through lush landscapes, taking about 1.5 hours to reach Shimla. Arriving around 11:30 AM, we were greeted by cool mountain air and breathtaking vistas. Despite our limited time, we were determined to make the most of our day, starting with a visit to Shimla’s iconic Mall Road.

Exploring Shimla’s Charm at Scandal Point

Our first stop was Scandal Point, where history and vibrant energy converge. Scandal Point, located where Mall Road meets Ridge Road in Shimla, has an intriguing history. Legend says its name comes from a scandalous event: the alleged elopement of a British lady with an Indian Maharaja. This caused quite a stir, leading to the Maharaja’s banishment from Shimla and the founding of Chail, 45 km away.

Today, Scandal Point is famous for its statue of Indian freedom fighter Lala Lajpat Rai and its proximity to the General Post Office, adding to its historical charm.

Scandal Point in Shimla is a bustling tourist spot known for its many eateries and shops, making it a lively place to visit. However, it’s important to watch out for monkeys, as they can be aggressive and might snatch food like ice cream from visitors. The authorities haven’t fully solved this issue yet. Despite that, Scandal Point offers a rich history and beautiful views of the Ridge, an old church, the Gaiety Theatre, and popular spots like Goofa Restaurant.

Must Know: Close to Scandal Point in Shimla, you can find a wide range of dining options. There are cafes, bakeries, and street food stalls offering local favourites like momos and chaat. You can also try traditional Himachali dishes and various types of cuisine, and enjoy treats from ice cream parlours.

The Colonial Charm of Town Hall in Shimla:

It was already 3 PM, so we left Scandal Point to visit the town hall, as we wanted to see more places. The town hall in Shimla was built in 1910, when the British used Shimla as their summer capital. It served as an administrative centre for officials staying in Shimla during the summer. Located on the famous Mall Road, it features large steps at the entrance where people like to sit, chat, and take photos.

We took many pictures outside the town hall. It had a strong British-era vibe, making it feel like London.

Typically, spending about 3 to 4 hours is enough to explore this area. You can stroll around, shop, enjoy the views, have a snack or meal, and visit attractions like the town hall, library, or old church.

Shimla Shopping Spree: Souvenirs and City Vibes on a Day Trip

As the day went on, we enjoyed the bustling Mall Road. Handmade shawls caught our eye with their beautiful designs, priced at about 700 INR. We tested our bargaining skills to find the perfect souvenir from our mountain adventure.

Shimla Stays: Finding Your Perfect Hilltop Haven

Even though we didn’t stay overnight, the hotels on Mall Road tempted us with their convenient location and city vibes, priced at around 1500 INR per night.

Shimla Packing Guide for June:

• Days can be warm, so pack lightweight and breathable clothing like cotton shirts and shorts.
• Also, evenings and early mornings can be cool, so bring a light jacket or sweater.
• Furthermore, comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are good for exploring Shimla’s hilly terrain.
• Moreover, sunglasses and a sun hat protect against the sun during the day.
• Likewise, use a small backpack for day trips to carry essentials like water, snacks, and a camera.

Breezy Escapes and Essential Tips:

• To avoid crowds, consider visiting popular attractions early in the morning or during the weekdays rather than weekends.
• Don’t miss out on trying local Himachali dishes like Dham (a traditional meal), Siddu (stuffed bread), and Chana Madra (chickpea curry). Shimla offers a variety of culinary delights.
• June is a popular tourist season in Shimla due to the pleasant weather. Ensure you book your accommodations in advance to secure the best options.
• June in Shimla can be variable, with warm days and cool nights. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather and occasional rain showers.

During our one-day trip from Solan to Shimla in June, we carefully planned our budget-friendly adventure. With a total budget of 8,000 INR for fuel, food, and a bit of shopping, we explored Shimla’s charming spots.

Must know: Despite the crowds, we couldn’t resist trying street momos near Scandal Point and treating ourselves to eclairs from Krishna Bakery.

Despite the busy crowds, we loved our family adventure in Shimla’s beautiful mountains. As evening came and we said goodbye to the busy streets, we recommended visiting Shimla during quieter times for a more peaceful experience in the mountains.

Our day trip was full of stunning views, delicious food, and local culture. Looking for exciting travel stories? Check out amazing adventures at https://sowl.in/stories. Safe travels and happy exploring await you.