The British loved the town for its heavenly climate, scented pines and rhododendron forests, green pastures and snowcapped peaks. They dotted it with grand buildings and beautiful mansions. Come summer and the entire government?officers, menial staff, files and cabinets?would troop here. And Shimla became the Summer Capital of British India. The tradition continues even today, though unofficially. As the mercury begins its upward climb, the plains people too head northwards to Shimla for a reprieve from the sun. This mother of all hill towns finds something to offer everyone?honeymooners, adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those with a colonial hangover.

History
Originally under the Nepalese kings, Shimla came to British attention in 1819. Wowed by its salubrious climate, the British persuaded the Nepalese king to part with it in 1830 and it became the most fashionable summer resort in northern India. In 1864, it was declared the summer capital of British India.The construction of the railway line from Kalka to Shimla made the hill town more accessible. After Independence, Shimla became the capital of Punjab until 1966, when it was transferred to and became the capital of Himachal Pradesh.

How to Reach
Air
Just 22 km away from Shimla, the Jubbarhatti airfield has regular flights from Delhi, Chandigarh and Kullu. However, air connectivity from December to February is subject to weather conditions. In that case, you could fly till Chandigarh, 120 km away, and then drive down.

Train
Shimla has a daily train to Kalka (100 km away). A narrow gauge line, the train offers great views but it is slow (takes about 6 hours), can?t carry too many passengers and is always crowded. A better option would be to take a train till Kalka and then hit the road. Kalka has train connections to Delhi, Shimla, Mumbai and Amritsar, among others.

Road
Shimla is connected by road to Chandigarh (119 km), Dehradun (344 km), Amritsar (322 km), Delhi (343 km), Pathankot (351 km), and Ambala (151 km). Himahal Pradesh Tourism as well as private operators run luxury buses from these cities to Shimla.

Quick Escapes
Kufri
Just 16 km from Shimla are Kufri?s famous ski slopes and trekking paths. Do go or long for nature walks, picnic outdoors and climb the Mahasu Peak. A few staying options are available, book in advance with HPTDC.

Narkanda
Around 60 km away, this again is ideal if you want to go skiing. A trek through the thick deodar forests will take you to the Hatu Mata Temple. Winter is the best time to visit when short and long skiing courses are offered. For information and accommodation, contact HPTDC.

Mashobra
About 12 km from Shimla is this delightful village surrounded by thick forests and gardens abloom daffodils, hyacinths and celandines Pack a picnic hamper and make a day trip here.

Chail
The summer retreat of the Maharaja of Patiala, Chail is around 65 km from Shimla. It has the world?s highest cricket round, a bird sanctuary, an plenty of walks. Besides HPTDC resorts, Hotel Pineview and Chail Inn good staying options.

Kasauli
A long 75 km drive from Shimla, this tiny town is dotted with colonial buildings and fragrant pine forests. Be warned that accommodation comes expensive in this much-in-demand hill town.

Tattapani
Some 65 km from Shimla towards Mandi this village is famous for its hot springs and fishing opportunities.

Jubbal
If you have interest in art and magnificent architecture, then 90 kms from Shimla is the former state of Jubbal, which has a well-maintained palace. Designed by French architect, the palace reflects shades European and Indian architecture. The palace was built in 1930.

Nalagarh
About 40 km from Kalka is this 16th century fort town built by the Chandela Rajput rulers. The fort gives magnificent views of forests and the mighty Himalayas. The Nalagarh Palace is now a heritage hotel but can flatten your wallet considerably.

Sarahan
Known for its ancient Bhimakali Temple, this was once the capital of the Bushahr state. After, the original pagoda-shaped temple, got destroyed during an earthquake, a new temple was built nearby. A stay at Himachal Tourism?s Hotel Srikhand is recommended, for the grand views of the snow-capped Srikhand Peak. The state transport runs regular buses to all these destinations. More expensive are cars that can be hired, with drivers.