By: Devika khosla

When hill retreats and summer getaways were being founded by the British in colonial India, Shimla was definitely the blue-eyed child. Declared the official summer capital of British India, Shimla at an altitude of 2,205 metres offered much sought after respite from the scorching plains. With smatterings of a colonial past yet evident within lush surroundings of pine and oak jungle tracts, Shimla’s abundant past and open countryside make it a well-liked holiday stop even nowadays.

Mall Road: The settlement’s lifeline, the Mall Road is the main street in Shimla. It’s the centre of all activity. Over time, colonial buildings have been overrun by kitschy boutiques and buildings. Cafes, restaurants and social hangouts on Mall Road are especially favoured with residents and guests alike.