It is the romance of the forested mountains and lush green valley that breathes life into Shimla. Once the summer capital of the British Raj, the ‘Queen of Hills’ has been endowed with nature’s splendour beyond measure – it lends you a hand, inviting you to retrace your steps and live some days in its soothing embrace. Years ago, British were enchanted by this city and now it is a favourite amongst Indian and foreign travellers.

The traces of the Raj are peppered all across the city – take a tour of the city’s colonial bungalows and longstanding buildings to see the Tudorbethan architecture that it is famous for. You must make a stop at the former Viceregal Lodge (now the Indian Institute of Advanced Study) that inspires nostalgia.

Moreover, the city offers a repertoire of experiences to travellers – nature hikes in the mountains with the music of gushing streams playing in the background; adventure sports such as mountain biking and ice skating that test your mettle; and those quiet moments of solitude on the highest peak, Jakhoo Hill, where you can hear Mother Nature whispering in your ear. While you are here, go sightseeing to The Ridge, St Michael’s Cathedral, the wax museum, and the state museum and explore this modern city with old blushes.