Hotels in Shimla

Whispers of the Himalayas: Discover Shimla's Enchanted Retreat

Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Shimla is a charming hill station that enchants visitors with its breathtaking landscapes and rich colonial history. The town boasts stunning views, vibrant flower gardens, and lush forests, making it a nature lover's paradise. Key attractions include the iconic Mall Road, the historic Christ Church, and the serene Jakhoo Temple. Adventure seekers can explore hiking trails or take a scenic ride on the famous toy train. With its quaint charm and romantic ambiance, Shimla offers the perfect escape for couples and adventurers alike, promising unforgettable memories in every season. For our best hotel rates in Shimla and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Shimla

Some of the best places to stay in Shimla are Kufri, Mashobra and Chharabra. Kufri, Mashobra, and Chharabra are fantastic destinations for travellers seeking natural beauty and tranquility. Kufri is popular for its scenic views and adventure activities, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Mashobra offers a serene atmosphere with lush greenery, perfect for relaxation, while Chharabra is known for its quiet charm and apple orchards. Accommodation in these areas ranges from cozy hotels to luxurious resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay with options for spas and wellness facilities to rejuvenate after exploring. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Shimla:

1. KufriOpens in a new window: Known for its serene natural beauty and adventure activities, Kufri is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This charming hill station offers stunning mountain views and access to various recreational activities. If you're considering where to stay, KVR Clarks InnOpens in a new window is a comfortable 4-star hotel with dining options and entertainment such as Satellite TV. For adventure seekers, Radisson KufriOpens in a new window, also a 4-star hotel, provides onsite adventure sports and recreation activities. Additionally, Sterling KufriOpens in a new window caters to families and business travellers, offering amenities like a business centre and a playground for children.
2. MashobraOpens in a new window: This serene destination is ideal for those seeking outdoor experiences amid lush greenery. Mashobra offers a tranquil retreat with easy access to nearby attractions. Consider staying at Clarkes hotelOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel set in a historic building, perfect for a lavish experience. The Orchid ShimlaOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel, is great for business and family travellers, featuring meeting rooms and recreational facilities. For adventure lovers, Welcomhotel by ITC HotelsOpens in a new window offers skiing opportunities and business amenities.
3. ChharabraOpens in a new window: Known for its lush landscapes and outdoor activities, Chharabra is a hidden gem for nature lovers. This area provides a peaceful escape while being close to cultural landmarks. For accommodation, Goroomgo Himsutra shimlaOpens in a new window, a 3-star hotel, offers diverse dining options and entertainment facilities. The Retreat MashobraOpens in a new window, also a 3-star hotel, features an onsite restaurant and cable TV for a comfortable stay. For luxury seekers, Wildflower HallOpens in a new window offers spa services and business amenities, ensuring a relaxing and productive visit.

Things to do in Shimla for first times

Nestled in the majestic mountains, Shimla offers a delightful blend of lush forests, serene lakes, and vibrant gardens. Over three days, visitors can enjoy activities like hiking through scenic trails, golfing on picturesque greens, and even ice skating, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Shimla:

• Day 1: Begin your Shimla adventure with a stroll down Mall Road, the bustling heart of the city, where you can shop for souvenirs and enjoy local delicacies. From there, make your way to the Army Heritage Museum, which showcases the rich military history of India through fascinating exhibits. Conclude your day with a visit to the serene Kali Bari Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kali, where you can take a moment to reflect and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere amidst the beautiful surroundings.
• Day 2: Start your morning at the iconic Christ Church, known for its stunning stained glass windows and unique architecture. Next, make your way to Jakhu Temple, perched on Jakhu Hill, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and visit the temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Afterward, head to the tranquil Tara Devi Temple, set amidst lush greenery, providing a perfect spot for relaxation and spiritual reflection.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at the Viceregal Lodge, an architectural marvel steeped in history, where you can explore its beautiful gardens and learn about its significance during the British Raj. Following this, visit the Himalayan Nature Park to appreciate the region's diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature enthusiasts. Finally, unwind at Craignano Nature Park, where you can enjoy leisurely walks through picturesque landscapes, making it a wonderful ending to your Shimla journey.

4 tips to find a great Shimla hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit Shimla are February, August, and September, when hotel rates are significantly lower. International travellers should aim to book their flights at least three months in advance for the best deals, while domestic travellers can find more affordable options by booking at least one month ahead. To truly appreciate the beauty of Shimla, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended, allowing you to explore its stunning temples, lush forests, and breathtaking mountains. This destination offers great value for money, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an affordable getaway.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Looking for last-minute deals to Shimla? You could find enticing discounts on accommodations by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com. This is where you'll discover flexible hotel options and potentially the best prices as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, so you're more likely to seize any great savings opportunities that come your way.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you are flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Shimla.
4. Consider your location: When booking your holiday accommodation on Hotels.com, take your location into account. Staying nearer to major attractions or city centres can offer added convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you wish to visit.

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 usually the wettest month. April to June are the peak travel months in Shimla, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light to moderate rainfall. On the other hand, August, October, and November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to frequent rainfall and sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.