Shimla Calling Tour

Enjoy a hearty breakfast and head out for a city tour of Shimla and discover yourself why it is called the most romantic hill station. You will be charmed by the variety of places to see. You will be visiting the City Church which is considered to be the second oldest church in the North of India. Built in 1857, the Neo-Gothic style church is prominently situated on The Ridge. This landmark can be spotted from anywhere over central Shimla and is still an icon of the British Raj. Highlights of the church include beautiful stained glass depicting the 6 qualities of Faith, Hope, Charity, Patience, Humanity and Fortitude. It is designed by Lockwood Kipling, father of Rudyard Kipling. The pipe organ which dominates the church is the largest of its kind in India.

Next, you will be visiting Sankat Mochan Temple which is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. This lovely temple of Lord Rama, Lord Shiva and Lord Hanuman, is located around 5 km from the city center and dates back to 1950. It was built by Baba Neeb Karori Ji Maharaj. He had spent 10 peaceful days in meditation amidst the pristine environs and then he decided to establish this temple. The sprawling temple complex is still very relaxing and conducive for meditation.

This is followed by a trip to the famous Jakhoo temple atop the Jakhoo Hill. After darshan at the ancient shrine, one can enjoy the spectacular view of the Shivalik mountain ranges and also the picturesque town of Sanjauli. Spend a few minutes enjoying the play of the numerous monkeys on the hill and be on the way to your next spot which is Shimla's State Museum.

The museum itself is a colonial style building on Mall Road, in the midst of rambling gardens. You can spend an hour or two here where there are more than 9000 objects on display. Ancient sculptures, handicrafts from around the state, philately, coins and photographs of the history of the state are distributed over more than 15 galleries.

End up with a walk along The Ridge, the city's commercial area. In the evening, you will return to your hotel to dine and relax. Shimla has a healthy nightlife and you can visit any of the lounges, discos or bars for a nightcap before you retire for the day only if you want to.

Overnight stay at the hotel.

After a good breakfast, we are now ready to take a rejuvenating trip to the health spa of Himachal. First stop will be the hill station, Mashobra. Only 12.5 km away at an altitude of 2349 m above sea level, this is a 'quieter Shimla'. The place is a small hill station still retaining its natural woods of pine, oak, cedar, horse chestnut, rhododendron and deodar. Peaceful retreats and resorts dot the area, making it an ideal place to get away from the hustle bustle of city life. For the adventurers, there is plenty to do here if you have an extra day or two.

Then we will move towards Craignano. Around 3 km away is Craignano, famous for the Viceregal, Italian villa built by Chevalier Peliti, made of wood. The dense forest cover and colorful eye-catching gardens make it a beautiful picnic spot. Summer adventures abound with rock-climbing, rappelling, trekking and fishing.

Next on the list is Naldehra. A pleasant half hour drive away from Craignano, takes you to Naldehra, renowned for its expansive members-only golf course. The route is breathtakingly scenic. So, keep your cameras ready to capture this unforgettable heaven, before you move onto to Tattapani.

Moving higher up in the Mandi district of Himachal, we come to Tattapani, spread out along the right bank of the Sutlej River. Come prepared to rejuvenate in the hot water springs, stretching over a 1 km radius. Seek relief from aches, pains and skin diseases, improve blood circulation and relax your stresses away. The springs are open throughout the day and throughout the year. Even in winter, this area remains warm because of the hot springs.

Return for the day for another relaxing night back at your hotel in Shimla.

Day 4 of the Shimla Calling tour will start with a much-needed breakfast before we start our activities for the day. We make our way to Kufri, the country's winter sports capital. At a high altitude of 2600 m above sea level, Kufri is nestled among the Himalayan foothills. Snowfall during months of January to March transforms it into a paradise. In winter, you can experience thrilling skiing and ice skating while in summer you can partake in adventure sports like paragliding and river rafting. The horse rides up to the Mahasu peak is a novel experience.

Then, we move towards Chail to see the highest cricket field in the world. Chail is a small village but boasts of the highest cricket grounds and Polo field. Chail Palace is a heritage hotel famous for its brilliant architecture. Chail Wildlife Sanctuary is a worth visit.

You will be back to Shimla by evening for another restful night under the twinkling stars at the hotel.

Eat healthy breakfast at your hotel and pack your suitcase. The tour ends with lovely memories of Himachal. After check out you will make your way back to Delhi by road/rail/air energized and rejuvenated!