travel tales-shimla

I will say Shimla and almost all the Indians will raise their brows in boredom. This is the most known hill station in Himachal Pradesh and has many Europeans living here. But read on dears, you will be tempted to come here and see the place yet again through my eyes! It is an absolute treat.

It has always been my dream to see the snowfall and play in the snow, the way they show in the Bollywood movies. My friends abroad; living in cold places like Ireland, Moscow or London say “The novelty lasts only the first season and then it is a matter of waiting for the snow to subside so we can see some sunshine and get out! You guys here are much better off having all seasons in bits and pieces and enjoying the best of it.” It never pacified me though. I still hung on to my cherished dream of being able to see the snow. And here we are! My dream fulfilled. I am penning this, snuggled in my quilt, a room heater switched on and the children eating dinner.

It is not actually Shimla that I want you all to visit. It is the journey from entering Shimla to the place you have reserved for your holiday that I wish none of you misses. Snow is the same everywhere but that white carpet interlaced with peeking brown mountain land, the pine leaves half green and half white whispering sweet nothings , are only here. The road is narrow, wet and unkempt like every hilly terrain. But only here is the road flanked by breathtakingly beautiful pine trees on one side and the snow clad mountains on the other. The sun tries to take a peek through the pine cones and locals can be seen huddled; holding steaming tea cups and looking upwards, trying to warm themselves in the sunshine. It is lovely hide and seeks game they play; this you can see only here.

The people here are different, simple and eager to help. To reach our destination we had to travel deep into the forest area. The locals cautioned us about the road, the likelihood of a snowfall, rain and also to keep an eye out for the oncoming heavy vehicles. I have been to almost all the hill stations in India and one abroad too. This concern and a natural’ you take care’ attitude I have encountered for the first time.

The places of interest are typically the same, shopping, church, trekking, museum, temples of course (This is India!) etc. Only this place has lovely hot water springs. (Naldhera and Tattapani).The water has healing potential and one is encouraged to bathe there. The British ruled from here and their imprint is ubiquitous. This lovely quaint town also boasts of the first Golf Course for our country, which is again a big tourist attraction! About 18 km higher up is Kufri. It is totally snow covered and colder than Shimla. They have a lovely ice skating club and also a fun world with rides and other fun sports has begun now.

My suggestion is enjoy the flora and fauna, the landscapes, relax and rejuvenate. Eat the local cuisine, the ‘pahadi aloo’ (Mountain potato) and the endless variety of stuffed parathas with mouth watering pickles. Non vegetarians will surely indulge and become gluttons; the aroma of chicken and meat cooked with the local spices is irresistible.

This is a warm welcome to all of you. Please visit this enchanting place, during the snowfall time. You all will have a different tale to tell. A memorable experience.