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 History
of Shimla started from Stately Windsor Castle where
the "Widow of Windsor" reigned in lonely, isolated splendour
after the death of her beloved consort, Prince Albert, to
the small, but ancient temple surrounded by thick woods
where the himalayan Goddess, Shamla, a synonym of Kali,
reigned her celestial realm on earth is indeed, distant cry,
but for well over a century, the two places, almost
inter-linked, ruled the destiny of this sub-continent. In
the year 1818, when Queen Victoria's uncle, William IV, was
King of England, Lord William Bentick,the Governer General,
had transformed the Company's dominion in India to the
Dominion of India, and it was accurate to speak of Britain's
Indian Empire. The frontier ran from bengal to Kathiawar, to
the north it ran through the Thar desert and along the
Sutlej nearly to the Himalayan range. The great hills were
the northern boundary except for the Gurkha state of Nepal.
Beyond this line lay the Punjab, Kashmir and the kingdom of
Afghanistan. In 1814, the Nepalese king brought about the
first war with Nepal over Sikkim, the Gurkhas had marched
into Sikkim, whose ruler appealed, to the East India Company
for help. The Sikkim ruler was installed and his territorial
status was guaranteed but during the conflict the British
discovered the beauties of Darjeeling and accidentally also
the thickly wooded spot, abode of the goddess Shamla, and a
part of the Kingdom of Nepal. When war broke afresh in 1819,
the British took the place with its cool and healthy
climate. Shimla is capital of Himachal Pradesh.
The Ridge : This large open space in the heart of
town presents excellent views of the mountain ranges.
Shimla's landmarks - the neo-Gothic structure of Christ
Chursh and the neo-Tudor library building are here.
Lakkar Bazaar : Popular for its wood crafts and
souvenirs, this is just off the Ridge.
Jakhoo Hill : At 2455 m., this is the town's highest
peak and a vantage point for Shimla's famous views. The
summit is crowned with a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
The hill is full of paths and narrow roads which are
enjoyable walks.
St. Micheal's Cathedral : This dressed - stone church
with fine stained glass has a cruciform design. It is
located just off the Mall, below the District Courts.
State Museum : This houses a representative
collection of Himachal Pradesh's rich heritage exhibits
inculde archeological artifacts, carvings, paintings and
sculptures. Closed on Tuesdays and holidays.
Indian Institute of Advanced Study : At 1983 m, this
magnificent English renaissance structure was the former
Viceregal Lodge. Its lawns and woodland and added
attractions. Entry by ticket nominal charge). A portion of
the interior is also open to the public, except on Sundays
and Holidays.
The Glen : At 1830 m, this is a thickly wooded ravine
through which a stream flows. It is a popular picnic spot.
Annandale : Surrounded by a thick deodar forest this
large glade has an ancient temple on an edge.
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