Shimla is one of the most famous hill stations in India. My parents decided to leave for Shimla for spending a few days there as well as for getting relief from the busy life of Delhi. I and my brother never had an opportunity to visit those snow-clad mountains before. So we were very much excited at the decision of visiting such a hilly place.
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Shimla[/caption]
It was the month of December and our trip was planned for three days. From Kalka railway station our journey was by toy train. The journey by toy train was very exciting. The train was moving slow through the wide roads. The scenic views of the hills outside were awesome. It took almost 12 hours to reach Shimla from New Delhi. The view of lush greenery below and the beautiful Himalayas with snow peaks above was magnificent.
Our stay was arranged at Flag House Resort in Shimla. I and my brother were very much tired and took a nap. We just enquired the bell boys about the main tourist attractions in Shimla and made a chart according to priority as we had only three days to explore the beautiful hill station. The resort people helped us with a car for sightseeing. We had a visit to the Christ church, the Jakhoo temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, Shimla State Museum, etc.
We also visited the Ridge of Shimla. From there, we could very well enjoy the panoramic view of the snow-capped mountain ranges engulfed in the beauty of the nature. About 5 kms from the Ridge was the Summer Hill, where Gandhiji used to stay when he visited Shimla.
The Mall is the main street and shopping centre in Shimla. We purchased handicraft products of Himachal Pradesh like pottery items, jewellery, designed woollen materials etc. from a Himachal Emporium in the Mall.
The healthy food, calm and serene atmosphere and pollution free environment in Shimla, made our stay very attractive. We also got opportunity of pony rides. It was indeed my most memorable experience. After that first visit, I am a regular visitor to the place every year.