Shimla

  • Overview
  • Inclusion
  • Policy
  • Packing List
  • FAQs

Best Months for this Trek

Open Closed

Overview

Your Adventure at a Glance

Shimla is a popular hill station located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is known for its scenic beauty, pleasant climate, and colonial architecture. Here are some key details about Shimla:

  • Geography and Location: Shimla is situated in the northwestern part of India, in the lower Himalayas. It is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh and is surrounded by lush green hills and forests.
  • Climate: Shimla has a temperate climate, with relatively cool summers and cold winters. Summers (April to June) are mild and pleasant, making it a popular destination to escape the heat of the plains. Winters (November to February) are cold, with occasional snowfall.
  • Tourist Attractions:
    • The Mall Road: A bustling shopping street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
    • Jakhu Temple: Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is situated atop Jakhu Hill and offers panoramic views of the city.
    • Christ Church: This iconic church is located on The Ridge and is known for its beautiful neo-Gothic architecture.
    • Shimla State Museum: This museum showcases Himachal Pradesh’s cultural heritage through its collection of artifacts, paintings, and sculptures.
    • Summer Hill: A picturesque spot that was once the residence of Mahatma Gandhi during his visits to Shimla.
    • Viceregal Lodge: Also known as Rashtrapati Niwas, this historical building served as the summer residence of the British viceroys during the colonial era.
    • Kufri: A nearby hill station known for its adventure activities, including skiing during the winter months.
  • Transportation:
    • By Air: The nearest airport to Shimla is Jubbarhatti Airport, located about 22 kilometers away. It is connected to Delhi and Chandigarh.
    • By Train: The Kalka-Shimla Railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a scenic train journey to Shimla.
    • By Road: Shimla is well-connected by road to major cities in North India. The journey from Delhi takes approximately 8-10 hours by road.
  • Local Cuisine: Shimla offers a variety of local Himachali dishes, including Chana Madra, Dham (a traditional festive meal), Babru (deep-fried bread stuffed with lentils), and various local sweets like Mittha and Chana Madra.
  • Festivals: Various festivals are celebrated in Shimla, including the Summer Festival, Ice Skating Carnival, and Shimla International Film Festival.
  • Economy: Tourism is a major contributor to Shimla’s economy. The city attracts a large number of tourists throughout the year, which has led to the development of hotels, restaurants, and other related services.

Shimla’s natural beauty, colonial charm, and pleasant climate make it a popular destination for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat in the hills.

At Hike2Heaven, we are dedicated to providing you with the finest services, ensuring that you feel truly exceptional amidst the beauty of nature and the wonderful atmosphere of Shimla. We offer top-notch home stays, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the splendor of the natural surroundings.

What's Covered

Inclusions & Exclusions

INCLUSION

  • Accommodation: Stay in tents/guesthouses on twin/triple sharing; base in guesthouse.
  • Meals: Simple, nutritious vegetarian meals provided.
  • Day-wise Meals: Meal plan varies by day.
  • Day 1: Dinner + breakfast next morning.
  • Trek Days: Breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner included.
  • Final Day: Dinner + breakfast before departure.
  • Non-veg meals are not served.
  • Trek Equipment: Sleeping bags, tents, kitchen setup, mattresses, crampons (if needed).
  • Transportation: Included if opted during booking.
  • First Aid: Basic medical kits available.
  • Permits: Forest entry fees and permits included.
  • Guides: Led by trained and experienced trek leaders.

EXCLUSION

  • All kinds of personal expenditures are excluded.
  • Anything that we have not mentioned above.
  • The trek cost is not inclusive of meals bought during the journey on 1st day and last day.
  • Mules or porter charges to carry private baggage.
  • Any kind of emergency evacuation charges.

Booking Policy

Cancellation Policy

PolicyUpto 30 days29–21 days21–15 days14–0 days
Batch Shifting
Refund100%50%0%0%

Travel insurance is strongly recommended. No-shows and last-minute cancellations are non-refundable. In case of bad weather or force majeure, the company reserves the right to modify or cancel the itinerary.

Preparation

What To Pack

Clothing & Footwear

  • High-ankle waterproof trekking boots (broken in)
  • Thermal base layer — top & bottom (2 sets)
  • Down jacket (600+ fill power)
  • Windproof & waterproof shell jacket
  • Trekking pants (quick-dry, 2–3 pairs)
  • Woolen gloves + waterproof outer gloves
  • Warm balaclava & beanie hat
  • Woolen socks (4+ pairs)
  • Gaiters for snow and scree

Gear & Essentials

  • 35–45L daypack with rain cover
  • Trekking poles (collapsible, 2 poles)
  • Headlamp with extra batteries
  • Sunscreen SPF 50+ & lip balm with SPF
  • UV-protection polarised sunglasses
  • Personal first aid & altitude medication (Diamox)
  • Water bottles (2L) or hydration bladder
  • Water purification tablets
  • Valid government photo ID (mandatory for permits)

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What if we want to leave extra luggage at the base village?

You can keep extra luggage in the base village for any particular trek. There are no cloak roo charges applicable. Its free of cost.

Is there mobile signals available on treks?

If you are going on a trek don’t expect mobile signals. There are few spots on the trails of few treks where you might find a single tower or something but it always depends if that is enough to make a call or not.

How do you manage toilets?

We use portable toilet tents for sanitation needs, as permanent structures may not available. These are dry toilets, so please bring wet wipes or tissue paper for personal hygiene.

Do I need to carry trek equipment?

For this trek you just need a day bag to carry during the trek, extra luggage can be left behind at the camp site. Proper bedded swiss tents are available on this trek.

Can we consume Alcohol during the trek?

It’s a strict no. If you fall sick during the trek due to alcohol consumption H2H has the right to cancel your trek and send you back to base village. No expenses shall be refunded in that case and you will have to pay additional for stay at base village.

How do I prepare for the trek?

Start running/walking at least 3-4 Kms everyday.

What kind of shoes will I need? Does a sport shoe work?

If it’s a snow trek a good trekking shoe is mandatory. If you buy a new shoe do walk for few days so that it fits you well and doesn’t leave you with blisters while you trek. If it is a summer trek or post monsoon trek a shoe with good grip and ankle support will do.