Hotels in Shimla

Shimla: Where Majestic Mountains Embrace Timeless Temples and Blossoming Beauty

Nestled in the picturesque Himalayas, Shimla is a charming hill station that exudes colonial elegance and natural beauty. Known as the 'Queen of the Hills', this delightful destination offers stunning vistas, lush forests, and vibrant flower gardens. Stroll along the iconic Mall Road, where quaint shops and delightful eateries await, or visit the historic Christ Church and the majestic Jakhoo Temple. With its cool climate, serene valleys, and rich cultural heritage, Shimla is the perfect retreat for romantic getaways, family adventures, and nature enthusiasts seeking tranquility amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Discover great hotels in Shimla

Shimla offers a diverse range of hotel accommodations, from luxurious star hotels with stunning mountain views to budget-friendly options perfect for travellers. Visitors can choose from charming boutique stays to friendly hotels that provide a warm atmosphere, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst the scenic beauty of Himachal Pradesh. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Shimla:

1. Radisson KufriOpens in a new window: This adventurous 4.0-star hotel provides a unique experience for thrill-seekers with an array of adventure sports and recreation activities available onsite or nearby. Guests can indulge in motorboating, ice skating, snowboarding, horse riding, and archery, ensuring an exhilarating stay. The hotel’s engaging atmosphere and focus on outdoor activities make it a prime choice for adventure travellers looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying high-quality amenities.
2. Woodays ResortOpens in a new window: This inviting lodging option offers a delightful dining experience with an array of culinary choices, including a buffet breakfast and a bar and lounge area. Guests can relax and unwind in comfortable accommodations while enjoying entertainment options such as a television and LCD television. The hotel effortlessly combines comfort with convenience, making it an excellent choice for leisure travellers seeking a pleasant retreat in Shimla.
3. Fortune Park KufriOpens in a new window: This charming 2.5-star hotel captures the essence of family and nature-themed vacations. It features a selection of amenities tailored for children, including a playground and games area, creating an engaging environment for families. The hotel’s focus on creating memorable experiences in a delightful setting makes it an appealing option for those looking to enjoy quality time with loved ones amidst Shimla's stunning natural beauty.

Top locations to stay in Shimla

When visiting Shimla, great areas to stay in include The Mall, Kufri, and Mashobra. The Mall is vibrant and central, ideal for shopping and dining. Kufri offers stunning views and outdoor activities, while Mashobra provides a serene escape amidst nature. For first-time visitors, The Mall is best suited, being close to key attractions and amenities.

1. The MallOpens in a new window: The Mall is the heart of Shimla, offering a lively atmosphere with stunning views and a vibrant mix of shops and cafés. This pedestrian-friendly promenade is perfect for leisurely strolls while soaking in the colonial architecture and lush surroundings. You’ll find delightful local handicrafts, souvenir shops, and cultural attractions like the historic Christ Church. The Mall is also a great spot for people-watching, with various events and street performances adding to its charm. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the best dining options, making it an ideal base for exploring Shimla.
2. KufriOpens in a new window: Just a short drive from Shimla, Kufri is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Known for its serene landscapes and pleasant weather, it’s a fantastic getaway for those looking to unwind amidst nature. You can enjoy horse riding or take a leisurely walk through the dense pine forests. Kufri is also famous for its panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, making it perfect for photography. The area is less crowded than Shimla, offering a peaceful retreat while still being close enough to enjoy Shimla’s attractions.
3. MashobraOpens in a new window: Nestled away from the hustle and bustle, Mashobra provides a tranquil escape with charming wooden cottages and lush greenery. This picturesque village, located just a short distance from Shimla, is a great spot for hiking and nature walks, with trails leading through apple orchards and dense forests. Mashobra is also renowned for its eco-friendly vibe and offers opportunities for birdwatching, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a serene environment. The local atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a peaceful stay while still having access to Shimla's attractions.

Things to do in Shimla

Nestled in a picturesque valley, Shimla enchants visitors with its lush forests, rolling mountains, and vibrant floral landscapes. Enjoy a variety of activities like hiking through serene trails, golfing amidst breathtaking views, and ice skating in a charming setting. This delightful escape is perfect for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike!

• Arki FortOpens in a new window – Step back in time at this historic fort, where you can explore its impressive architecture and learn about its rich history. Nestled amidst lush greenery, Arki Fort offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for photography and a peaceful retreat.
• Mall RoadOpens in a new window – Take a leisurely stroll along Mall Road, the heart of Shimla, filled with shops, eateries, and vibrant street life. This bustling street is ideal for picking up souvenirs or enjoying a warm cup of chai at one of the many cafés, all while soaking in the lively atmosphere of the city.
• Jakhu TempleOpens in a new window – Venture up to Jakhu Temple, perched on Jakhu Hill, where you can pay your respects to Lord Hanuman. The temple is surrounded by serene pine forests, and the hike to the top rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Shimla and the majestic Himalayas. Keep an eye out for playful monkeys along the way!
• Chadwick FallsOpens in a new window – Discover the beauty of Chadwick Falls, a stunning waterfall cascading through verdant forests. The sound of the rushing water and the cool mist in the air create a refreshing escape from the heat. It’s a great spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts looking to capture the essence of Shimla's natural beauty.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Shimla

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Shimla is in February, August, and September, when hotel prices may drop to more affordable levels. Staying for at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully immerse yourself in the city's key landmarks, historical sites, and cultural attractions. During your visit, you can explore beautiful temples, lush forests, scenic golf courses, the charming university, and enjoy activities like ice-skating and roller-skating. The breathtaking mountain views and vibrant flower displays also add to the rich cultural tapestry, making it a great value for money experience.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover the best hotel prices in Shimla, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates as your travel date approaches. Enabling email alerts or push notifications ensures you're informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you catch potential savings. Additionally, the Smart Shopping tool in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, enhancing your chances of finding flexible deals. If availability changes or prices drop, you'll be among the first to know, making it easier to book a spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay at a hotel in Shimla. For those seeking distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is somewhat elevated, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you to secure the best possible deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying nearer to key attractions or city centres may offer convenience, but it often comes with higher prices. For potentially more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and ease of access to the places you wish to visit. You might also look into independent hotels situated further out, which are usually likely to be more budget-friendly and can provide a more authentic experience.

Best time to go to Shimla

Shimla experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 42.8°F (6.0°C), while June is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 71.2°F (21.8°C). July is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Shimla, April to June are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly sunny, with light to moderate rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, August, October, and November are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by no to frequent rainfall and sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.