Shimla's Winter Charm: A 5-Day Himalayan Escape

Travel Adventure

Shimla's Winter Charm: A 5-Day Himalayan Escape

Embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with amazing experiences

5
Days
20
Activities
1
Traveler
1

Day 1: Arrival in the Queen of Hills

Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Activities
4

Arrival in Shimla

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India
Pre-book your taxi from Chandigarh/Kalka for better rates. The journey involves winding mountain roads, so carry motion sickness medication if needed.

Check-in at Hotel

Near Mall Road, Shimla
Consider hotels like The Oberoi Cecil (Luxury), Clarkes Hotel (Heritage), or Hotel Willow Banks (Mid-range) for their location and services. Cost is per night estimate.

Evening at The Ridge & Christ Church

The Ridge, Shimla
The Ridge is a vehicle-free zone. It gets cold quickly after sunset in November, so wear warm layers. Photography is excellent during the 'golden hour'.

Dinner on Mall Road

Mall Road, Shimla
Try 'The Devicos' for a mix of Indian and Chinese food in a classic setting, or 'Cafe Sol' for continental fare. Most shops on Mall Road close by 9 PM.
2

Day 2: History, Heights & Handicrafts

Thursday, November 27, 2025
+1
Activities
5

Viceregal Lodge & Botanical Gardens

Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla
The institute is closed on Mondays. Photography is restricted inside the main building. Hire a local taxi for a round trip as it's a few kilometers from the town center.

Lunch at a Local Cafe

Near Mall Road, Shimla
Consider 'Wake & Bake Cafe' for its great views and diverse menu.

Jakhoo Temple via Ropeway

Jakhoo Temple, Shimla
The ropeway ride is scenic and saves a steep climb. Be extremely careful with your belongings (glasses, phones, food) as the area has many mischievous monkeys. The round trip ticket costs around ₹500.

Explore Lakkar Bazaar

Lakkar Bazaar, Shimla
Bargaining is common but be polite. The market is adjacent to The Ridge, making it easily accessible.

Traditional Himachali Dham Dinner

Himachali Rasoi, Shimla
Restaurants like 'Himachali Rasoi' specialize in serving the Dham experience. It's highly recommended for a cultural and culinary immersion. Book a table in advance.
3

Day 3: Alpine Adventure to Kufri

Friday, November 28, 2025
+1
Activities
5

Day Trip to Kufri

Kufri, Himachal Pradesh
The cost is for a round-trip taxi for the day. The road can be slippery if there's been recent snowfall. Negotiate the price and itinerary with the driver beforehand.

Himalayan Nature Park

Himalayan Nature Park, Kufri
A good place for families and wildlife enthusiasts. Involves a fair bit of walking on hilly terrain.

Mahasu Peak Pony Ride

Mahasu Peak, Kufri
Bargain hard for the pony ride. If there's snow, you might find basic skiing and tube rides at the top. Wear sturdy shoes.

Lunch with a View in Kufri

Kufri
Many small eateries are available near the main tourist points. The experience is more about the ambiance than gourmet food.

Evening Coffee & Tibetan Food

Lower Bazaar, Shimla
Weather Backup: If heavy snow blocks the road to Kufri, visit the Annandale Army Heritage Museum and take a nature walk in the Glen forest instead. For dinner, 'Krishna Bakers' in the Lower Bazaar is famous for its momos.
4

Day 4: Heritage Walk & Toy Train Joyride

Saturday, November 29, 2025
Activities
4

Shimla Heritage Walk

Scandal Point to Viceregal Lodge route
The walk is mostly downhill or on flat ground. You can get a guided tour of the Gaiety Theatre. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Nostalgic Lunch at Indian Coffee House

Indian Coffee House, The Mall, Shimla
The service is unhurried, so be prepared to relax and soak in the atmosphere. Don't miss their mutton dosa and coffee.

Kalka-Shimla Toy Train Joyride

Shimla Railway Station
Book tickets well in advance on the IRCTC website, as they sell out quickly. Choose a train that allows for a return journey the same evening or arrange for a taxi to pick you up from the destination station.

Farewell Dinner

Shimla
Consider 'The Restaurant' at The Oberoi Cecil for a luxury experience or 'Eighteen71' for a modern ambiance and varied menu.
5

Day 5: Departure with Sweet Memories

Sunday, November 30, 2025
Activities
2

Breakfast and Local Bakes

Trishool Bakers, Mall Road
'Trishool Bakers' and 'Beekays' are famous local bakeries known for their quality products.

Depart from Shimla

Shimla
Allow extra travel time for potential traffic while descending from the hills, especially on a weekend.