Shimla

Shimla, also known as Simla (the official name until 1972), is the summer capital and the largest city of the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. In 1864, it was declared the summer capital of British India. After independence, the city became the capital of East Punjab and was later made the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. It is the principal commercial, cultural and educational centre of the state.

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I have been there many times. In fact, when we lived in Panchkula, it was a popular day-trip destination.

Shimla in 2012

Our trip in 2012 was forgettable and I don’t even have many photos from then. I remember staying at a hotel away from the bustle of Mall Road. The hotel had the graves of the owner’s dogs, Ebony & Onyx.

Shimla in 2020

Our trip in 2020 was much better. This time we stayed right on the Mall Road.

We spent our evenings exploring Mall Road on foot and meeting beautiful fluffy Hill dogs.

In the mornings, the city looks completely different, in the shadows.

Our hotel gave us beautiful views at sunset and dusk.

One thing we love is roaming around on a Hill Station in the afternoon sun. The afternoon sun hits different at Hill Stations.

We saw the legendary Gaiety Theatre from the outside. We remember this from Himalaya with Michael Palin where he was introduced as “Michael Plain”.

One day, we took a day trip to Chail to see some snow. There were only small clumps at a few places.

No visit to Shimla is complete without a visit to the legendary Goofa and Ashiana. Still with crappy food, but great views.

One thing I remember distinctively is that the 2020-2021 farmer protests were at heir peak during this trip.

With a sad heart, we bid Shimla farewell and went back to our (polluted) home.