Kerala Backwater Tours

Kerala, a state in southern India, is well-renowned for its backwater system – a network of interconnected canals, lagoons, rivers, lakes and inlets that run inland from the coast and which is spread over an extensive 900 km. The network includes five large lakes linked by canals, both manmade and natural, fed by 38 rivers, and extending virtually half the length of Kerala state. Traditionally, the backwaters are used by local people for transport, fishing, and agriculture. Annual snake boat races, held along the backwaters, also provide a great source of entertainment for the locals and tourists alike. The lagoons and lakes is a lasting source of livelihood for the indigenous people and a popular tourist attraction for the state.

Boat-Backwater-Kerala

The backwaters were formed by the action of waves and shore currents creating low barrier islands across the mouths of the many rivers flowing down from the Western Ghats range. Fed by the rivers, the backwaters are almost free of salty seawater. In certain areas, such as the Vembanad Kayal, artificial barrage has been built to prevent salt water from the sea from entering the deep inside, keeping the fresh water intact.

Passing thru stream

Many unique species of aquatic life thrive in these water including crabs, frogs and mudskippers, water birds such as terns, kingfishers, darters and cormorants, and animals such as otters and turtles live in and alongside the backwaters. Palm trees, pandanus shrubs, various leafy plants and bushes grow alongside the backwaters, providing a green hue to the surrounding landscape.

Beautiful View of Boats on River

Houseboats called kettuvallams are one of the prominent tourist attractions in Kerala. More than 2000 kettuvallams ply the backwaters. The kettuvallams were traditionally used as grain barges, to transport the rice harvested in the fertile fields alongside the backwaters. At some point in time the boats were used as living quarters by the royalty. 

Chalet on River

Converted to accommodate tourists, the houseboats have become floating cottages having a sleeping area, toilets, a dining area and a sit out on the deck. Some ketuvallams are motorised but generally proceed at a slow speed for smooth travel.

Boat on Jalkumbi

Boat Riding Thru

Boat Rush

Boat Taking Rest

Chalet on a Boat

Cottage by the River

Looking around

Quite River

Things To Do in Wayanad, Kerala

If you’re visiting Wayanad, Kerala, then planning an itinerary is tough. There are so many things to do and see.

The Thamarassery Ghat

A hair-raising drive down the Kozhikode-Bangalore highway takes one towards Lakkidi, the gateway to Wayanad. As your car winds its way up the Thamarassery Ghat, crane your neck to have a peek at a tree bound by a large chain around its trunk.

Wayanad Hill View

Legend has it that a tribal person from Wayanad showed a British engineer, who was searching for a path to build a road running through Wayanad), the Thamarassery Ghat as an easy way to reach Mysore from Kozhikode. Eager to take credit for it, the engineer killed the helper and buried his body under a nearby tree. Soon after these roads were built, several people met with horrendous accidents at the Thamarassery Ghat – all attributed to a wanton spirit haunting that stretch of road. Before long, an exorcist was summoned and fettered the victim’s spirit onto that nearby tree. Today, one knows it as the famous Chain Tree.

The Tea Plantations of Vythiri

The British opened up Vythiri for the cultivation of tea in 1889. You can meander through the sprawling tea plantations that are ensconced atop the rolling hills of Vythiri. You’ll usually comes across a bunch of women nipping of ‘two leaves and a bud’ with their nimble hands and tossing them over their shoulders into baskets slung along their backs.

Edakkal Caves

The primordial Edakkal Caves are cradled in the Ambukuthi hills near Ambalavayal. The Edakkal Caves are basically two rock formations purportedly formed by a large split in a mammoth rock. Legend has it that they were caused by arrows fired by Luv and Kush, the sons of Rama, legendary hero of Ramayana. Like the world-renowned Ajanta and Ellora Caves in Maharashtra, the Edakkal Caves were stumbled upon by an Englishman (in 1890) while on shikar. Over the years, the Edakkal Caves have drawn the attention of archaeologists from around the world. The latter say that the engravings found inside the Edakkal Caves (Neolithic etchings such as these are to be found only at few places in Africa) shed light on the existence of a Stone Age civilization in Wayanad. The Edakkal Caves are sure to leave one spell-bound.

Soojipara WaterFalls near Edakkal caves

Meenmutty Falls 

A picturesque drive down the Chundale-Udagamandalam road takes one towards Neelimala. An easy 30 minute upward climb takes you atop Neelimala. No sooner are you atop, you begin to hear the roar of a cascading fall. The Meenmutty Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in Kerala, has to be really seen from atop Neelimala to fathom its utter beauty.

Chembra Peak

At 2100 meters above sea level, it happens to be the loftiest peak in Wayanad. The Chembra Peak that seems to imperiously gaze upon the countryside can be seen from almost all parts of Wayanad. For those who have a head for heights the Chembra Peak makes for exhilarating trekking.

Muthanga Game Sanctuary

Lurking in the woods

Muthanga forms an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, one of the bio-diversity hotspots of the world. Safari is the thing to do here. You may come across herds of elephants, barking deer, sloth bear, nilgiri langur and the odd tiger lurking in the woods…

Kuruvadweep

About 15 kilometers from the town of Mananthavady lies this picturesque 950-acre group of uninhabited islets bound the River Kabini.

Banasura Sagar

About 25 kilometers from Kalpetta lies this breathtaking lake. One could go on a bout of speed boating at this lake that’s set against the backdrop of the Banasura Mountain.

Pakshipathalam

Located in the Brahmagiri hills at Thirunelli, this place is a birdwatchers delight.

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary ,Kerala

And finally

There is a resort at the foot of the Edakkal Caves called Edakkal Hermitage. They have a cosy restaurant in a cavern (a natural cave which is part of the Edakkal Caves chain) where at night, dinner is served inside the cave, which is lit by hundreds of candles. It is the only natural cave restaurant in India.

Things To Do in Ladakh

Some of the most stunning landscapes in India can be found in one place, Ladakh where there are many natural wonders. The tricky terrain of Ladakh has kept it a secret from tourists until recently. Now it stands as one of the most enchanting locales in the country with some of the finest experiences this spectacular land has to offer and plenty of places for tourists to explore.

1. A True Attraction

One of the most intriguing occurrences in the world is the Magnetic Hill in Ladakh, which is located 30 kilometres from Leh. Here, switched off vehicles move up a steep mountain at the speed of 20 kilometres/hour. The ride is an unbelievable, almost magical experience.

2. Trekking Trails

Trekking in Ladakh is an exceptional and incomparable experience. Choose from all-day treks as well as shorter ones to manoeuvre mountain slopes and reach a remote village or monastery. Longer treks can last up to 21 days and sometimes even more. These spectacular but testing trans-mountain journeys will offer up some of the most dazzling landscapes in the world and involve camping in the middle of nowhere. Treks limited to the Indus Valley, are possible to arrange in May and other routes are safe and accessible after July. A route called Chaddar is considered one the world’s most exciting trekking trails. Irrespective of what trail you choose, prior arrangements and supplies are essential. The terrain is tricky and deceptive, and you should not make the mistake of underestimating the conditions.

Trekking in Ladakh

3. River Rafting

Rafting options are widely available on River Indus and many of its tributaries. The stretch between Spituk and Saspol is the most suitable for rides and the ideal location for tourists to experience the sport without pushing their luck. Beyond Saspol, even ardent adventure seekers would require highly skilled professionals to guide the journey. The most tumultuous route is between Padum and Nimo. To take on this journey, advance preparation is imperative. Even with professional guides and participants, rescue crews are a pre-requisite when taking on the mighty Zanskar.

The-Indus-River

4. Photographer’s Paradise

Ladakh is considered one of the most stunning places in India for photography, if not the best. Even though, or perhaps because it was, opened to the general public only in 1974, it is not over-exposed and has mystique. In just the last decade its elusive beauty has become the toast of the film making and photography world. Photographers brave the long journey to reach far flung corners of Ladakh and capture its unreal beauty of film. Ladakh’s natural terrain resembles lunar landscapes with spurts of azure pools set within golden mountain-sides. To take back images of the local life in Ladakh, opt for one of the communal homestays here. These are homestays where the entire village operates as a team to promote eco-tourism. These native villagers have access to the beautiful local monasteries and by staying with them you can obtain an insider’s view into rituals and festivals; a priceless experience.

Paradise

5. Drives of a lifetime

A trip to Ladakh is incomplete if one hasn’t driven on the Manali-Leh route. This journey is possible the best part of a trip to Ladakh. The journey is set along breath-taking locales. Driving isn’t the only option of undertaking this journey, private taxis can also be hired in Manali to reach Leh. More often than not, taxi drivers can be cajoled into letting guests take the wheel. The route of Delhi-Manali-Leh is significantly longer than a Delhi-Leh flight. But without a shadow of a doubt it is worth the extra time and money spent. Another unbelievable driving route is in Khardungla. At 18380 above sea level this the highest motorable road in the world and offers the most splendid and incomparable vistas to visitors.

Mountain range Ladakh

6. Life in Leh

Leh is famous for the Victory Peak, which was built in the 16th century by King Tashi Namgyal. A very important religious and historical monument Leh’s Sunni Mosque that is over 400 years old. Other than due to its age, the mosque is important because it a rare amalgam of Islamic and Tibetan architecture. Most Buddhist monasteries in Leh can be covered within two days. An idyllic way to experience the real life and culture of Leh is by living with a local family. Many families have opened their homes to visitors as homestays. By staying with them, one can experience Leh’s rich culture through food, music, and conversation as well as learn about their history through elders who have lived it first-hand.

Things To Do in Munnar

Munnar in Kerala is one of the India’s untouched hill stations.

It’s an easily-accessible traveller destination, yet it is also uncorrupted by commercialisation.

The region’s delightfully soothing landscapes have only recently become popular. Yet they have quickly captured the hearts of visitors.

Here are nine things to do in Munnar that will make you fall in love with the place:

1. Watch the waterfalls

Whether you’re on your way to Munnar or right in the heart of it, you’ll come across beautiful waterfalls gushing down with fury. The famous Cheeyapara and Vallara Falls look like they belong in a wild rainforest. But Munnar’s glistening Attukal Waterfall is the favourite of the locals. These falls are seen at their most majestic during the monsoons.

Cheeyapara and Vallara Water Falls

2. Splash around on the lake

At Munnar’s Mattupatty Dam you can go boating across an enormous lake. Rowing boats, motor boats and even speed boats are available for hire. The Kundala Dam and Kundala Lake are also popular for more languid boating, especially among honeymooners. Here, boats styled after Kashmiri shikaras (similar to Venice’s gondolas) can be taken for a cruise.

Munnar Lake

3. Get the best view of the mountains

Munnar’s mountains can be seen at their grandest from Top Station, a dedicated viewpoint at 1,880m above sea level. From here, the hills are truly alive. And the clouds are at your feet. This area is also popular for spotting the rare blue flower, Neelakurunji, which blooms only once every twelve years. The Nilgiris (Blue Mountains) around Munnar derive their name from these flowers, which in full bloom turn the hillside into a spellbinding blanket of blue.

Tea Gardens

4. Fawn over Munnar’s fauna

15 kms from Munnar is Eravikulam National Park. The sanctuary is home to endangered species like the Nilgiri Tahr, striped squirrel, Nilgiri Marten, elephants, sambhars and even tigers and leopards. To avoid overcrowding and preserve the park’s environment, tours are organised by the park’s management in mini-buses. They also arrange treks and hikes through the park’s “tourism area.” Note that during the monsoons the park is closed.

Mountain Goat

5. Enjoy the freshest tea you’ve ever tasted

At a glance, Munnar’s landscapes look like giant emerald-green waves, cascading towards the horizon. This beautiful sight is the formed by unending spans of lush green tea estates, which produce regular flavours like masala, ginger and lemon, but also exotic creations like chocolate tea. Whatever flavour you opt for, they will all share one common trait: delightful freshness.

Green Tea

6. Try the finest spices

Idduki district produces the world’s finest cardamom. It’s famous for its spices and coir products, believed to be the best quality in the world. The spices are sold straight from the plantations, in shops all over Munnar. They make excellent presents for cooks and those with a discerning palate.

Spices from Munnar

7. Cook what you grow

Most families in Munnar cook using the finest local ingredients, often grown in their own fields. Most recipes are deceptively simple and require the same principles of preparation. Culinary knowledge is one the most prestigious souvenirs you can take away from Munnar.

Local food Munnar

8. Unleash your creativity

From endangered wildlife to untouched landscapes, Munnar is a photographer’s delight. For years, Munnar has attracted artists from all over, serving as a muse to writers, photographers, poets and more. Its beauty was recently seen on the big screen in the movie Nishabd, where Munnar is home to a reclusive photographer. You’ll feel inspired too, so be prepared to create.

Rangoli in Munnar

9. Walk the landscape

Munnar is overflowing with enchanting landscapes that are irresistible to anyone that enjoys walking. Tea estates are usually off limits for trekkers, but exceptions can be easily found – take advice from your host if you are staying in a Munnar homestay. Plantation walks are a lovely way to see the region’s flora and fauna. The Shola forest, near the Mattupatty Dam, is also a great place for a long walk.

Landscape of Munnar

Cattle Fairs of India

There are numerous festival and fairs held every day across the country and each fair has its own significance. Animal plays an important role in the life of Indian people, they includes in many of their rituals and are worshiped as well. India host one of the largest cattle and livestock fairs in the world Sonepur Cattle Fair, take place at the end of Kartik month every year.

Famous Pushkar Cattle fair

The famous Pushkar Cattle fair is the five day Cattle Fair held annually in Pushkar town of Royal Rajasthan. Pushkar camel Fair is one of the largest camel fairs in India and an important tourist attraction of the city. Pushkar Fair also includes cows, sheep and goats along with events and competitions such as longest mustache, bridal competition and camel race.

Pushkar camel fair Rajasthan

Kolayat Cattle Fairs

The Kolayat Cattle Fairs is another famous cattle fair of Rajasthan held in Bikaner district and known for best place to trade buffaloes, horses, camels and other cattle. Kolayat fair or Kapil Muni fair is an important fair of Bikaner and largest cattle of fair of district organized during the month of December.

Kolayat Cattle Fair in Rajasthan

Sonepur Mela

Sonepur is a town situated on the bank of river Gandak near Patna in Bihar. It is famous for largest cattle fair in India known as The Sonepur Mela held on the confluence of holy river Ganges and Gandak. Sonepur Cattle Fair is the biggest cattle fair of Asia held annually on Kartik Poornima in the month of November. Its the fair for the trade of animals such as Cattle, horses,goats,donkeys,camels,birds and elephants. Haathi Bazaar is the major attraction of Sonepur Mela, numerous elephants are beautifully decorated for the purpose of sale.

Sonepur Mela

The Nagaur Cattle Fair

The Nagaur Cattle Fair is the second biggest fair in India, held annually for eight-days during the month of January – February. Nagaur is situated between the two beautiful city Bikaner and Jodhpur, It is well known as land of fairs. The animal fair attracts lots of people from the rural Rajasthan and cities for trading of camels, bullocks and other animals.

Nagaur Cattle Fair in Rajasthan

Chandrabhaga Fair / Jhalawar Cattle Fair

Jhalawar Cattle Fair also known as Chandrabhaga Fair held every year on the bank of Chandrabhaga River in Jhalawar district of Rajasthan. Chandrabhaga Fair is one of the most popular fair celebrated on last day of Karti Poornima from 27th-29th November.

Agra Cattle Fair or Bateshwar Fair

The Agra Cattle Fair or Bateshwar Fair take place in town of Bateshwar near Agra on the banks of holy river Yamuna. Bateshwar Fair of cattle and livestock held every year during the Karthik month November and considered as the biggest fair in Uttar Pradesh. Along with the bank of river Yamuna there are 108 Hindu temples dedicated to Gods and Goddesses of Hinduism.

Agra Cattle Fair in Uttar Pradresh

Gangapur Cattle Fair

The Gangapur Cattle Fair take place in Gangapur near the Bhilwara in Rajasthan. Gangapur is situated on Bhilwara-Udaipur Road and named after the temple of Goddess Ganga. Other less known Cattle Fairs of India are Karauli Cattle Fair,Nalwari Cattle Fair,Kunda Mela,Ramdeo Cattle Fair and Kulkunda Cattle Fair.

Gangapur Cattle Fair in Rajasthan

Things to do in Kumarakom

Located in the Kottayam district of Kerala is Kumarakom, the heart of God’s own country. This small, sleepy town is actually a cluster of islands set around the Vembanad Lake. And here are six things to do in Kumarakom, a place you won’t want to leave.

1.The blessed Backwaters

No trip to Kumarakom is complete without a cruise on Lake Vembanad. Kettuvallams or houseboats can be seen languidly passing by on the lake and are easily available for hire. Some homestays have their own fleet of houseboats, which they rent out to guests. The benefit of renting a kettuvallam from a homestay is that you don’t have to worry about organising anything and that it usually comes with delicious home cooked meals. Depending on time-constraints, you can opt for an hour-long tour or overnight stays on the houseboats. Most homestays can organise day tours that will take you to a local village for a hearty, local lunch and to observe how coir products are made by the villagers. For cruising through the canals, one can try vallams or canoes. Practically every home has a personal vallam and one can easily borrow it for a few hours if living in a homestay. As you float along the canals, you can simply feel the concept of time float away as well.

Backwaters in Kottayam

2.Bird watching

On the banks of Lake Vembanad is the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. The 14-acre area is home to countless indigenous species of birds. And also houses many migratory birds from as far away as Siberia and the Himalayas. Commonly sighted visitors here are the Siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. The Pathiramanal Island is another great place for bird-watching.

Bird Watching Kerala

3.Snake boat race

The world-famous snake boat race last only a few minutes. But the memory, of the oarsmen rowing furiously and thousands of spectators cheering their hearts out, lasts an eternity. Though races are organised all through July and August, the most impressive is the Nehru Trophy, which is held in Alleppey, on the 2nd Saturday of August. Some homestay owners are closely associated with organizing the event and can get you the best seats in the house, a definite advantage considering that thousands of people attend this event.

Snake boat race

4.Rare recitals

The Kathakali and Mohinattam are amongst Kerala’s most well known dance forms. Their recitals can be seen in many folk centres but homestay owners also organize personal recitals for their guests. Another ancient Indian art-form that’s recently gained popularity is the Kalaripayattu. This martial art is enormously hard to perfect and requires years of strenuous training, which usually begins for a child at the age of six or seven. Kalaripayattu performances for commercial purpose are infrequent. But with the aid of a local, you can experience its rare and humbling performance.

Rare Recitals Kerala

5.Feast and toddy

To enjoy the regional cuisine in a local ambience, head to a village. The dishes served here are brilliantly flavourful and the seafood they prepare cannot be replicated anywhere else. The perfect accompaniment to the rich meal is a freshly made glass of Toddy. This is a locally made alcohol and in its purest form is very potent. Another advantage of staying in a homestay is that they make a great place to experience local delicacies. They’ll serve you unforgettable and divine dishes, which big, branded hotels don’t even seem to know exist. Most families will be happy to share their secret recipes with you.

Food with Toddy in Kerala

6.Ayurvedic Treats

The best complement to a cruise on the backwaters, also affectionately known as the “laidback waters,” is a relaxing Ayurvedic massage. Massage centres promising stress-relief and more have mushroomed all over Kerala in the last few years. But if you are residing in a homestay, your hosts will be invaluable assets in directing you towards genuine and reputed centres with truly skilled therapists.

Ayurveda healing massage

Things to do in Kottayam

Besides being the perfect conduit between Kerala’s most interesting places and home to its famous backwaters, Kottayam is a region rich in history and culture. No wonder it is one of Kerala’s most alluring destinations for travellers.

1. Enjoy some religious sightseeing

Kottayam is speckled with centuries-old churches, temples, and mosques. The most notable amongst these are two churches known as Valiyapalli and Cheriyapalli, near Kottayam town. Built in the 16th century, these churches are distinct in character. While Valiyapalli has rare antique carvings, murals and West Asian architecture, Cheriyapalli depicts Biblical themes but also features temple architecture. On the banks of the river Meenachil, you’ll find the Thazhathangady Juma Masjid. This mosque is over 1000 years old and is richly embellished by carvings and murals. Two important temples dedicated to Lord Shiva are the Vaikom Temple and Thirunakkara Shiva Temple. Besides their traditional architecture, these temples also attract people for their festival celebrations which are unique and moving.

church in Kottayam

2. See the backwaters

One of Kottayam’s most precious offerings is Kumarakom. Home of the backwaters, this area is famous for its serene cruises, divine landscapes and greenery. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary and Pathiramanal Island are true delights for bird-watching enthusiasts as they attract migratory birds from as far away as Siberia and the Himalayas. Here you can also find countless reliable centres that will treat you with a relaxing Ayurvedic massage, a delightful way of starting your day.

Backwaters in Kottayam

3. Take a road trip

From languid backwaters to the majestic Western Ghats, Kottayam is a region which offers stunning natural beauty in a variety of forms. To experience Kottayam’s glory at its mesmerising best, rent a car. A drive on the stretch connecting Kottayam to the Periyar Sanctuary offers you Kottayam’s finest and most untouched landscapes. You’ll find yourself embraced by sky-high palm trees and plantations, convincing you that you’re in an artist’s masterpiece.

4. Visit the cave temple

Ayyappara is a cave-like temple, which is revered by people as a place of enormous historical and religious importance. This mythological place is believed to have sheltered the Pandavas during their exile and it attracts thousands of believers from far and wide, all year round. Located 2000 feet above sea level, Ayyappara is also popular amongst tourists for its splendid sunsets.

Caves in Kottayam

5. Get close to wildlife

An eternal favourite amongst travellers is the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, located a couple of hours from Kottayam. This expansive sanctuary is the home of many enchanting animals. Here, herds of elephants are often seen strolling by, and creatures including exotic birds, bison and wild boar are found. A cruise takes you along the divinely beautiful Periyar River as it bisects the sanctuary’s majestic mountains. A heavenly way of taking in the sights is by bamboo rafts, and camps can be set for the outdoorsy travellers. Owing to its idyllic beauty, it has long been a favourite amongst both amateur and accomplished photographers.

Wildlife of Kottayam

6. Trek through ‘God’s own country’

Love walking? Wagamon and Peermed are the ultimate hiking destinations in Kottayam. While Peermed is a popular hill station perched at an altitude of 1066 meters, Wagamon is 60 kms from Kottayam and offers delightful landscapes that can be scaled with ease.

Trekking Kottayam

7. Feast with a local family

Like most other parts of India, Kerala has its unique cuisine. The truly authentic way of experiencing the real local flavours is by staying with a friendly Kerala family in a Kottayam homestay. They will serve dishes from recipes perfected over time by past generations. The best part is, if you are lucky, you will be served vegetables that you helped pick or seafood that you caught with your own hands.

Feast in Kottayam

8. Marvel at the toddy tappers

Toddy is Kerala’s potent and locally produced alcohol. It has a very unique taste and is the perfect accompaniment to an authentic, local meal. The drink’s basic ingredient is actually collected by firm-footed men who effortlessly climb up towering trees and tap them. The process is as dangerous as it looks and very unique to the state. These nimble toddy tappers have become increasingly hard to find in the recent years, but with some inside information from your Kerala homestay host you should discover where to find them.

Toddy - Farmer

9. Join the festivities of Changanassery

During the festival of Deepam, people flock in large numbers to the beautiful town of Changanassery. The festival of lamps, named after the town’s old moniker ‘Town of five fire lamps’, is celebrated here every year between November and December. It’s less than 25 kms from Kottayam and also famous for the Thrikkodithanam temple, which is embellished with intriguing 18th century inscriptions.

Festival Kottayam

Things to do in Shimla

Simla, also known as Shimla, was the Summer Capital of the British. And here we bring you nine things that make it a capital experience, even today.

1.Jai ho!

Simla is filled with countless important and revered temples. But Shri Sankat Mochan is the only famous temple complex in Simla. It is filled with many smaller temples which are dedicated to a number of Hindu Gods. If you’re lucky, you might even be invited to join a wedding and see the traditional ceremonies being performed.

2.Monkey around

Arguably the most popular temple in Simla is a Hanuman temple called Jakhoo. Located on Jakhoo Hill, which is two kilometers away from Simla and is the hillstation’s highest peak. The temple naturally offers some of the most wonderful vistas of the town below and of the majestic, snow-clad Himalayas. At the temple you’ll also find countless mischievous but harmless monkeys who will happily take food from your hands.

Monkeys-around-Shimla

3.Meet the Mall

Simla’s Mall Road is where everyone hangs out to just walk around, shop for souvenirs and indulge in some people watching. The Mall also has a number of good restaurants, cafes, and bars. If you’re in the mood you can catch a Bollywood masala flick, then catch a show at The Gaiety Theatre.

Mall-Road-Shimla

4.At the door of The Christ

The Mall’s Ridge Road is an important rendezvous for people. But it’s also where you will find the 2nd oldest Church in North India. Simply called Christ Church, it has a majestic aura and fascinating architecture. Beautiful stained glass windows embellish the interiors of the Church and it attracts people of various faiths and religions.

Christ Church Shimla

5.Join the celebrations

Almost all year round, tourists can observe and even participate in Simla’s simple but enchanting festivals, which are filled with feasts, music and dance. Some of the important festivals are Lavi, The Summer Festival, Rohru, Halog and The Winter Sports Festival.

Band Baja Barat Shimla

6.A lesson in history

The Shimla State Museum opened back in 1974 with the mission to preserve the state’s cultural and historical wealth for future generations. Here, visitors can see many important artifacts such as miniature Pahari paintings, sculptures, traditional costumes, and jewelry.

Shimla State Museum

7.Go away for the day

If one wishes to go on day trips outside of Simla, then there are plenty of good options available. Amongst them, Cheil is favoured by a lot of people. It was the summer capital of Maharajas and has the world’s highest cricket pitch. But for golf-lovers the ideal location is the famous Naldehra Golf Club, in Naldehra. Another favorite spot for sports lovers is Kufri. This is the capital of winter sports in India and even has a small zoo, which is home to many indigenous animals.

Garden in Shimla

8.Be a Sport

For those who love sports, the place to be is Annandale. The place is less than four kilometers from The Ridge and is known as the playground of Simla. It stands at a height of over 6,000 feet above sea level from where you can enjoy panoramic sights of the region and join a game of cricket, polo or frisbee.

9.Hold the fort

Arki isn’t very near Simla but it’s a site historically-rich, which must be visited by people who can spare the time. About 50 kilometers away from Simla in Arki you can find an 18th century fort, which is a one of its kind monument in the region.

Arki Fort Shimla