Hills & Hues: Perfect Shimla Weekend from Delhi
Jun 5, 2025
"Shimla? Isn't it just crowded, commercial, and full of honeymooners?"
I've heard it a thousand times. And for a while, I believed it too. My first trip to Shimla years ago felt like navigating a human traffic jam on the Mall Road, leaving me wondering what all the fuss was about. But then, a few friends shared their secret Shimla – the one with serene forest trails, quaint cafes overlooking valleys, and misty mornings that feel straight out of a painting.
That's when I realized: Shimla isn't just about the bustling Mall Road. It's about finding those quiet nooks, embracing the colonial charm, and letting the crisp mountain air rejuvenate your soul. And for us Delhiites, it's the ultimate go-to for a quick, refreshing weekend getaway.
If you're craving a break from the city's chaos and longing for cool breezes, panoramic views, and a touch of old-world charm, then a 2.5-day trip to Shimla is exactly what you need. Let's explore how to make your Shimla weekend perfect, avoiding the common pitfalls and discovering its true magic.
Why Shimla? The Queen of Hills Awaits!
Shimla, the erstwhile summer capital of British India, holds a special place in the hearts of mountain lovers. It's more than just a popular hill station; it's a living museum of colonial architecture, surrounded by breathtaking deodar forests, and offering views that stretch for miles. It perfectly blends history, nature, and just enough modern comfort to make it an ideal escape.
Easy Access: A comfortable 7-8 hour drive from Delhi, making it perfect for a weekend trip.
Colonial Charm: Victorian architecture, quaint churches, and a nostalgic ambiance.
Nature's Embrace: Lush green hills, dense forests, and stunning valley views.
Refreshing Climate: A welcome respite from Delhi's heat, especially in summer.
Walkable Town: Explore much of the main town on foot, soaking in the atmosphere.
Getting There From Delhi: Your Options
My personal favorite for Shimla is always the road trip – the journey itself becomes part of the adventure! But here are your best bets:
By Car/Taxi: Approximately 7-8 hours. The journey through the plains and then into the winding mountain roads is picturesque. This gives you the most flexibility to stop for photos or a chai break at a scenic point.
By Bus: Numerous state-run and private Volvos operate daily from Delhi to Shimla. It's a comfortable and budget-friendly option, especially for solo travelers.
By Train (via Kalka): This is arguably the most enchanting way to reach Shimla. Take an express train from Delhi to Kalka (e.g., Kalka Shatabdi), and from Kalka, board the UNESCO World Heritage Kalka-Shimla Toy Train. The toy train journey is slow (around 5-6 hours for Kalka-Shimla), but absolutely mesmerizing, passing through tunnels and over bridges, offering unparalleled views. It's an experience in itself!
By Flight: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti), but connectivity can be limited. Chandigarh Airport is a more frequent option, from where Shimla is a 3-4 hour drive. For a weekend trip, train or road are generally more practical and scenic.
For this "Perfect Shimla Weekend," I'm assuming a comfortable road trip or a train journey to Kalka followed by the toy train – it just sets the mood right!
Your Perfect Shimla Weekend: The 2.5-Day Itinerary
Day 0: Friday Evening – The Scenic Journey & Misty Arrival
1:00 PM: Leave Delhi! Aim for an early start to tackle the distance and ensure you arrive before dark. Pack some snacks and a good playlist for the ride.
8:00 PM (approx): Arrive in Shimla and check into your hotel. For a truly immersive experience, consider a hotel with a view or one with colonial charm slightly off the main Mall Road to escape the immediate crowds.
Mid-Range: Hotel Holiday Home (HPTDC), Hotel Willow Banks, Hotel Peterhof.
Luxury: The Oberoi Cecil, Wildflower Hall (a bit outside Shimla, but exquisite).
Boutique/Budget: Woodville Palace, Clarkes Hotel, Zostel Shimla (for backpackers).
9:00 PM: Enjoy a relaxed dinner. Tonight, skip the elaborate plans and opt for a cozy meal at your hotel or a nearby restaurant. I love the vibe at Cafe Sol at Hotel Combermere for its varied menu and comfortable ambiance, or a traditional Indian meal at The Restaurant at The Oberoi Cecil for a more upscale experience. Take in the crisp mountain air and the twinkling lights of the valley.
Day 1: Saturday – Colonial Charm, Panoramic Views & Forest Whispers
8:00 AM: Breakfast with a View
Start your day with a hearty breakfast. Many hotels offer fantastic views from their dining areas. Fuel up, because today involves some walking!
9:30 AM: Christ Church & The Ridge – A Walk Through History
Head to The Ridge, the large open space in the heart of Shimla. This is where most of the town's cultural activities take place, and it offers magnificent views of the surrounding mountains.
Christ Church: Dominating The Ridge, this is the second oldest church in North India, built in neo-Gothic style. Step inside to admire its stained-glass windows.
Gaiety Theatre: A beautiful Victorian-era theatre, still operational. If you have time, peek inside or check for ongoing shows.
Photography Tip: The Ridge is less crowded in the morning, offering great photo opportunities of the church and the expansive views.