Historical Places in Shimla

Historical places in Shimla beautifully showcase the past of this hill town. This hill town is filled with numerous imposing buildings and structures built during the British Era. Many historical tourist places in Shimla are historically significant and are the top tourist attractions in Shimla. Tourists and connoisseurs of art and heritage visit these Shimla heritage buildings.

Such was the charm of this tiny village that the Britishers decided to convert Shimla into their summer capital. As a result, today, the structures built by the British have become not just the most visited historical buildings in Shimla but also the repository of the culture and history of imperial India.

Walking down the famous Mall Road and observing the bungalows and historical towers dating back to the days of Raj evokes a distinct colonial charm. This is one of the reasons why Shimla is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, frequently visited by families, youth, and honeymooners alike.

If you plan your holidays in Shimla, these historical places should be at the top of your sightseeing list. Some of Shimla’s top and most famous historical sites include the State Museum, Viceregal Lodge, Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex, and an array of churches and cathedrals.

Top Historical Places in Shimla That Take You Back to the Colonial Era

Rashtrapati Niwas

Rashtrapati Niwas is a significant tourist destination in Shimla, also known as Viceregal Lodge and the Indian Institute of Advanced Study. It was once the home of the British Viceroy of India. Located on Observatory Hill, it has well-manicured lawns that enhance its charm. The beautiful architecture and a collection of articles and photographs will take you back to the time of British rule in India. Constructed in 1888 by the architect Henry Irwin, Rashtrapati Niwas is one of Shimla’s most famous historical buildings that cannot be missed.

• Location – Rashtrapati Nivas Chaura Maidan Road, Near Observatory Hill, Boileauganj, Shimla
• Rashtrapati Niwas Timings – 10 am to 5 pm, closed on Mondays and Gazetted Holidays.
• Rashtrapati Niwas Entry Fees – INR 20 for Indians, INR 50 for Foreigners

Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex

This cultural complex dates back 122 years, making it one of the oldest Shimla heritage buildings. It is a five-story building with a ballroom, an armory, a theatre, a police office, a bar, and galleries. One of the oldest cultural complexes in India, the Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex is perfect for getting a peek into Shimla’s history. The theatre at this complex attracts people from all around the world due to its cultural prominence. In addition, you can attend cultural programs organized here that display ancient or historical art.

• Location – Ridge, Middle Bazar, The Mall, Shimla
• Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex Timings – 9 am to 5 pm, closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays
• Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex Entry Fees – INR 25 for Indians, INR 50 for Foreigners, and additional camera charges.

Shimla Heritage Museum

If you want a deep knowledge of the history of Shimla during the time of British rule in India, the Shimla Heritage Museum is one of the best historical places in Shimla to visit. Britishers left several historical marvels in Shima. This museum is one of them. It is the best way to recall Shimla’s history and learn about how Shimla was in the 1800s. On a tour of the Shimla Heritage Museum, you can witness many rare paintings, pictures, and sketches that are now a part of Shimla heritage.

• Location – Jakhoo Road, The Mall, Shimla
• Shimla Heritage Museum Timings – 10 am to 5 pm

Jubbal Palace

Get amazed by the rich history and marvelous architecture of Jubbal Palace in Shimla. One of the top Shimla historical buildings, this palace was built in the 12th century and had a romantic story that makes it popular among travelers. The palace has terraced gardens and Virginia vines surrounded by pine and cedar trees. Nature lovers and architecture admirers will love this royal palace. Also called Woodville Palace Hotel, it is one of the most prestigious places in Himachal Pradesh and a must-visit for history lovers.

• Location – Jubbal Road, Shimla
• Jubbal Palace Timings – 6 am to 6 pm, open all days of the week
• Jubbal Palace Entry Fees – No entry fee is required.

Kuthar Fort

Perched at 1300 meters, Kuthar Fort is one of the significant historical places in Shimla in Himachal Pradesh. It welcomes tourists to revisit the historic moments. The fort is intricately carved in the Rajasthani style of architecture and lures many architecture admirers. Formerly, the fort was known as Kishangarh Fort and traces back around 800 years. After regular renovation over the decades, Kuthar Fort has new and new pieces of construction. Once the residence of the royal Kuthar family, you can see the impressive design, arches, gateways, sanctuaries, and columns, along with an exclusive collection of paintings here.

• Location – State Highway 9 Kishangarh, Kuthar
• Kuthar Fort Timings – 8 am to 6 pm, open all days of the week
• Kuthar Fort Entry Fees – INR 5 for children, INR 10 for adults, INR 100 for foreigners

Rothney Castle

One of the best historical buildings in Shimla, Rothney Castle, is a heritage monument that serves as a treat to visitors. Due to its historical significance and beautiful surroundings, Rothney Castle in Shimla attracts many tourists. The beauty of this castle doubles with the vibrant wildflowers and wild berries growing around. Besides, Rothney Castle was once the residence of A.O. Hume, a British officer also known as the founder of the Indian National Congress and Father of Ornithology. The castle now comes under Shimla’s heritage zone and is also included in heritage walks for tourists.

• Location – Jakhoo Hill, Shimla
• Rothney Castle Timings – 6 am to 5 pm,
• Rothney Castle Entry Fees – No entry fee is required.

Annandale Ground

Annandale Ground is the most famous historical landmark in Shimla. It is a flat terrain developed as an army playground in the city and is located approximately 3 km from The Ridge in Shimla; Annandale Ground organizes picnics, golf, polo, and cricket. If you visit Shimla with family and kids, this is one of the best picnic spots in Shimla. Surrounded by deodar and oak trees, the natural beauty adds to its ambiance. The British used it as a racecourse for cricket, polo, and other activities.

• Location – Annandale Road, Annandale, Shimla
• Annandale Ground Timings – 10 am to 2 pm, 3 pm to 5 pm, closed on Mondays
• Annandale Ground Entry Fees – No entry fee is required.

Choose Indian Holiday for the Shimla Heritage Tour

You can explore the best historical tourist attractions during your Shimla vacation. Book a well-designed Shimla tour package with us to enjoy the holiday with a smooth travel experience. You can also modify the tour with the help of our tour experts for a remarkable vacation.