
Approved by Himachal Pardesh Tourism
Registration no :-11-2073/23-DTO-SML
Shimla Heritage Walking Tour Package
Uncover the rich colonial history and cultural elegance of Shimla with our specially curated Heritage Walking Tour. Meander through the heart of this hill station – from Mall Road to Summer Hill – soaking in vintage architecture, iconic landmarks, and stories frozen in time. Perfect for those who want a deep and immersive connection with Shimla’s glorious past.
Tour Highlights:
1. Scandal Point
Begin your journey at the legendary Scandal Point, where stories of royal romances and political meetings echo through the ages. A statue of Lala Lajpat Rai now stands proud, brought from Lahore after independence.
2. Gaiety Theatre
Visit this architectural marvel from 1887, inspired by London’s Royal Albert Hall. Still hosting live performances, the theatre is a living relic of the Victorian era.
3. Christ Church
The second oldest church in North India, built in 1857. Admire its stunning stained-glass windows designed by Lockwood Kipling, father of Rudyard Kipling.
4. The Ridge & Mall Road
Enjoy scenic views and colonial charm, surrounded by bustling cafes, shops, and historical buildings that once hosted British officers and royalty.
5. Kali Bari Temple
A spiritual pause at the 1845-built shrine dedicated to Goddess Kali, believed to be the original Shamla Devi temple of the region.
6. Grand Hotel (Bentinck Castle)
Glance at Shimla’s last rickshaw parked near the Grand Hotel, a building with deep colonial roots.
7. State Bank of India (Dalzell House)
Once the Imperial Bank of India, this 1924 heritage building holds British-era architecture and financial history.
8. Vidhan Sabha
Previously the Council Chamber (1925), now the legislative seat of Himachal Pradesh – a must-see landmark.
9. St. Michael’s Cathedral
A gothic masterpiece built in 1885, featuring a statue of Mother Mary gifted by Mexican Christians.
10. Gorton Castle
With its conical turrets and grey Himalayan stone façade, this earthquake-resistant structure now houses the Accountant General’s office.
11. Kennedy House (Site)
The site where Shimla’s first permanent house was built in 1822 by Captain Charles Pratt Kennedy. Though now gone, the site remains iconic.
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Offbeat Gems:
Rhododendron Forest Trail
Take a short nature trail from Chaura Maidan to Summer Hill through forests of Rhododendron Arboreum – a plant known for its medicinal and cooling properties.
Summer Hill
Where Mahatma Gandhi once stayed in the Georgian house of Rajkumari Amrit Kaur. A serene, shaded stretch perfect for soulful reflection.
Clarks Hotel (Former Oberoi Clark’s)
Dating back to 1910, it was once a luxurious hub of British officers and later acquired by Rai Bahadur M.S. Oberoi.
Chalet Day School
A beautiful Swiss-style cottage turned into a school – originally used by officers to entertain guests from the US Club.
US Club & Carignano
Exclusive British officers’ retreat with tennis courts and a country house, now under PWD.
Churail Baoli (Marina Area)
A mystical spring near Hotel Marina with benches and forest surroundings. Enjoy views, legends, and the scent of blooming Agapanthus.
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Royal Residences on the Route:
Cedar Lodge: Once owned by Maharaja of Patiala, now under the Punjab Government.
Oak Wood: The former summer residence of the Patiala royals, now the CM’s official home.
Woodville Palace: German-country styled mansion turned heritage hotel.
Barnes Court: Formerly Himachal Bhawan, now Raj Niwas – where the Shimla Agreement was signed.