Shimla : (Himachal Pradesh) - Shimla (6000+ asl) is the state capital and a touristy, cramped and Crowded destination which now is a popular winter getaway with locals (when it snows around the area).

Kalka-Shimla Train route is a heritage-rail route and is an experience by itself for guests (especially overseas guests).

Areas of Accommodation Shimla

Before Shimla (6500 ft asl) - This is just 6 kms before Shimla. Significance of this area is that its right on the Chandigarh-Shimla route and Buses, cars etc. can freely go about even in peak winter when rest of the Shimla is covered with snow and in peak summer when traffic restrictions and parking troubles make it difficult for vehicles to move around. This is ideal for groups. Himdev Hotel and Asia The Dawn are good options here.

Shimla (7000 ft asl) - First point at the entry is Chaura Maidan where a lot of colonial era buildings are there. Cecil is the high end Oberoi group hotel here having an Indoor pool. Hotel Peterhoff is HP Tourism option in mid-range.  Chaura Maidan in a way is one end of the Mall road which is always sealed for vehicles. Here most hotels lack open areas. A level lower than the Circular road is East Bourne Resorts which has a resort like character and is away from hustle of the mall with woods around a peaceful area. At deep end of Circular road, about 2 kms from mall road, is Chhota Shimla where Springfields, one of the classier heritage option is situated. Chhota Shimla leads to one of the highest point of the Shimla, Raj Bhawan road where chief minister's house is situated and Woodville Palace is situated right there in a very quiet location. Woodville Palace, especially heritage wing is like a museum with so many antiques and priceless stuff on display making it popular with expats and diplomats. From the main Traffic circular road leads towards Mashobra / Kufri etc. and Radisson Jass Hotel is one high end option just in a corner off the road. This is popular getaway ex-Delhi where idea is to arrive and enjoy Spa, luxury and other amenities.  Last but not the least is the Mall Road, and perhaps the most sought after location for stay for families and weekend getaway seekers from Delhi and Chandigarh who come over in Summer, enjoy good weather and just have fun doing some fun shopping. Hotel Clarkes is a heritage hotel from the Oberoi management with a lot of history. Next to Clarkes is Hotel Willow Banks which is perhaps best option on the mall alongwith Hotel Combermere after Clarkes.

Travel information:

Sightseeing : Kamna Devi Temple, Observatory Hill, Himachal State Museum.
Excursion - Mashobra(15 kms), Naldehra(25 kms), Kufri (25 kms), Chail (50 kms), Tattapani(51kms)

For any further information, assistance and reservations email - delhigetaways@nivalink.co.in