3 Days in Shimla & Nearby: A Backpacker’s Guide to Hills, History, and Himalayan Vibes

You’re on a crowded Delhi metro, scrolling through Instagram reels of snow-capped peaks and winding mountain roads. Suddenly, your best friend texts: “Shimla this weekend?” Three days later, you’re sipping chai at 7,000 feet, watching the sun rise over deodar forests and colonial rooftops. Ready to swap Delhi’s chaos for Shimla’s charm? Let’s plan your perfect backpacking escape!

Day 1: Delhi to Shimla – Colonial Vibes & Mall Road Magic

6:00 AM – Hit the Road

• Bus Options: Overnight Volvo (₹800–1,200) from ISBT Kashmere Gate. Pro tip: Book upper berths for views.

• Train Option: Kalka Shatabdi (₹700, 4 hours) + toy train to Shimla (₹300, 5 hours).

12:00 PM – Check In & Refuel

• Stay: Hostel at Shimla (₹600/bed) or Tara Hall (₹1,000/night) for colonial vibes.

• Lunch: Warm up with ₹100 rajma-chawal at Sita Ram & Sons.

2:00 PM – Explore the Ridge & Christ Church

• The Ridge: Shimla’s heart. Snap pics with the iconic Gandhi statue.

• Christ Church: Stained glass windows and serene vibes (free entry).

5:00 PM – Mall Road Stroll

• Shop: Woolen socks (₹100), handmade candles (₹200), and local jams.

• Snack: Hot aloo tikki (₹30) at street stalls.

8:00 PM – Dinner with a View

• Café Simla Times: Try ₹200 paneer tikka with a side of live music.

Day 2: Kufri & Chail – Snow, Palaces, and Pine Forests

7:00 AM – Day Trip to Kufri

• How to Reach: Shared taxi (₹200/person, 1 hour).

• Do: Horse ride to Mahasu Peak (₹300), play in the snow (Nov–Feb), or visit the Himalayan Nature Park (₹50).

12:00 PM – Lunch in Kufri

• Eat: ₹150 maggi and chai at a roadside dhaba.

2:00 PM – Explore Chail

• How to Reach: Taxi (₹500, 1.5 hours).

• Must-See:

  • Chail Palace: A summer retreat with cricket grounds (₹50 entry).

  • World’s Highest Cricket Pitch: Snap a pic!

7:00 PM – Return to Shimla

• Dinner: Dig into ₹250 trout fish at Wake & Bake Café.

Day 3: Shimla to Delhi – Hidden Gems & Farewell Feels

6:00 AM – Sunrise at Jakhu Temple

• Trek: 30-minute hike through deodar forests. Watch the sun rise over the Himalayas.

• Pro Tip: Beware of cheeky monkeys—hold onto your snacks!

9:00 AM – Breakfast at Indian Coffee House

• Sip: ₹50 filter coffee with butter toast (₹30).

11:00 AM – Explore Annandale & Scandal Point

• Annandale: A serene meadow with army museum vibes (free entry).

• Scandal Point: Shimla’s most famous meeting spot.

2:00 PM – Last-Minute Shopping

• Lakkar Bazaar: Buy wooden crafts (₹200–500) and Shimla’s famous dried fruits.

4:00 PM – Return to Delhi

• Bus: Overnight Volvo (₹1,000–1,500).

Budget Breakdown (Per Person)

Backpacker Hacks for Shimla

1. Walk Everywhere: Shimla is compact—skip cabs and explore on foot.

2. Layer Up: Evenings can get chilly (5–10°C).

3. Avoid Weekends: Shimla gets crowded; weekdays are quieter.

FAQs

1. Is Shimla safe for solo travelers?

Absolutely! Locals are friendly, but avoid isolated trails at night.

2. Best time to visit?

March–June (spring blooms) and December–February (snow!).

3. Can I visit Kufri in summer?

Yes, but snow activities are limited. Opt for nature walks instead.

4. Are there budget stays near Mall Road?

Yes! Hostels like Zostel and Tara Hall are affordable and central.

5. How to handle Shimla’s monkeys?

Avoid carrying food in hand. Use a backpack and stay calm.

Final Tip: Let Shimla Surprise You

Beyond the colonial charm and Mall Road buzz, Shimla thrills with hidden trails, cozy cafés, and sunsets that paint the sky pink. Talk to locals, try siddu (local bread), and let the mountains work their magic.

Three days here isn’t a trip—it’s a love letter to the hills. Now, grab that backpack and go write yours!