Things & Places to Enjoy When On a Budget Trip to Shimla
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Shimla is the capital of the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is an extremely popular hill station and is visited by hundreds of tourists every year. Shimla has much to offer everyone. There is something for people of all ages and people on all budgets. Whether you’re looking for a luxury vacation or for a vacation on a budget, Shimla has it all. There is no dearth of accommodation options in Shimla to suit all budgets. Hotels, guest houses, homestays- Shimla has it all. You can choose your accommodation as per your budget and your requirements and you are sure to find something on Cleartrip.
To minimise your travel cost, it is recommended to reach Shimla by bus or train. It is well-connected to all the major cities by good roads and a strong rail network. If you are on a budget trip to Shimla and are worried that sightseeing and other activities will be expensive, then fear not. Here we will tell you about loads of options that will keep you busy and entertained in Shimla and you won’t even feel the pinch. There are many things you can do to keep yourself busy and entertained without spending too much money.
1. The Mall:
Visit the Mall Road and soak in the vibe of Shimla. There are many travel guides who conduct cheap tours of the Mall Road, but this is something you can even do on your own. Walk around the streets and shop for souvenirs and knick-knacks. You will find many shops selling shawls, stoles, woollens, watches, shoes, gym wear, etc. You can also shop for Tibetan handicrafts in the Tibetan Market on the Mall Road. Taste the local delicacies from vendors or visit any of the numerous restaurants to satiate your hunger pangs.
2. Trekking in the Hills:
Shimla is famous for its hiking trails. A good pair of sturdy boots is all you need to enjoy trekking. Shimla-Hatupeak, Shimla to Chail, Shimla to Tattapani, Jalori Pass are popular treks. Trekking is a wonderful way of exploring the surroundings of Shimla. You will especially enjoy this activity if you are a nature lover. It is a cheap and inexpensive way of enjoying yourself and getting to know the city.
Also read about: 10 Spectacular Hill Stations Near Shimla
3. Lakkar Bazaar:
If you are a shopaholic, then Lakkar Bazaar is for you. What you spend here depends totally on you. You can shop for wooden handicrafts, wooden clocks, walking sticks and toys are other popular items here. While here you must enjoy the famous Chole Bhature and aloo tikki at Sita Ram.
4. Jakhu Temple:
Jakhu Temple is an ancient temple in Shimla, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is located on Jakhoo Hill and a big festival is held here every year on Dusshera. You can hike up to the temple or hire a pony or even a taxi. There is also a 108-feet high statue of Lord Hanuman at this temple, which is a major attraction.
5. The Ridge:
The ridge is the popular hub of all cultural activities in Shimla. It is located in the centre of Shimla along the famous Mall Road. Various government events and fairs are held here. The Summer Festival is a very popular festival held here. All of Shimla comes alive in a riot of colours and festivities. If you are here during the months of April or May, you must take part in the festivities held here.
6. Viceregal Lodge:
Rashtrapati Niwas or Viceregal Lodge is located in the Observatory Hills of Shimla. It was previously the residence of the British Viceroy of India. It later became the summer residence of the President of India, who later put it to academic use by handing it over to the Indian Institute of Advanced Study. The building is beautifully built and the architecture is sure to impress all history buffs. One can easily spend half a day here, admiring the beautifully maintained gardens as well as viewing some of the staterooms.
You must read about: Things to Do & Top Places to Visit in Shimla
7. Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex:
The Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex is a very popular tourist spot. Built in 1887, it contained a theatre, ballroom, armoury, police office, bar and gallery. It now has a gallery, a museum, amphitheatre, multi-purpose hall and is a hub of the performing arts.
There is much to do in Shimla, even on a budget. Just the views and the sights of this place are enough to warm your heart and leave you with enough memories that will last a lifetime. You can do a toy train ride, visit the Mohan Shakti Heritage Park, the Annandale ground, the Tara Devi Temple, the Kali Bari temple and so much more.
Consider your budget and book your stay
Plan a trip to Shimla with Cleartrip and get discounts and cash back on your hotel bookings. Cleartrip provides you with a vast number of budget hotels and luxury hotel options. If your budget is a little more, you can stay in wonderful 4-star hotels like the Snow Valley Resorts, Hotel Combermere or Hotel Willow Banks. If your budget is a little on the lower side, you can consider 3-star properties like the Honeymoon Inn or Hotel Kapil in Shimla. You can also go for decent 2-star hotels, homestays and guest houses in Shimla. Enjoy your budget trip to Shimla following the tips given in this article.
