The Ghulatis On The Go family continues their Shimla adventure, presenting the second part of their series focusing on the popular tourist destinations within Shimla itself. Following their road trip from Chandigarh to Shimla, this segment delves into the city's key attractions, offering insights into navigating its unique terrain and experiencing its vibrant atmosphere. The journey highlights practical aspects of visiting Shimla, from parking and using the Himachal Tourism Lift to exploring the bustling Mall Road and the serene Jakhu Temple.
The video begins with the family driving through the busy streets of Shimla, showcasing the city's characteristic hillside architecture and winding roads. A prominent sign directs visitors to the Tourism Lift and car parking, indicating the primary mode of access to the pedestrian-only Mall Road. The family's vehicle is parked in a multi-level parking facility, a common feature in hill stations designed to manage traffic congestion. From the parking, they proceed on foot, heading towards the Himachal Tourism Lift, which serves as a crucial link between the lower road and the upper Mall Road.
Ascending to Mall Road via the Himachal Tourism Lift
The Himachal Tourism Lift is a key piece of infrastructure for visitors to Shimla, offering a convenient way to reach Mall Road without navigating steep inclines. The lift operates in two stages: a ground-to-first-floor segment and a first-to-second-floor segment, ultimately leading directly to Mall Road. The ticket price for the lift is a nominal 10 rupees per person, making it an accessible option for all tourists. The family is seen entering the lift premises, which appear to be a covered walkway, and then taking the two successive lifts to reach their destination.
Upon exiting the second lift, the family steps directly onto Mall Road, a bustling pedestrian thoroughfare. The transition from the enclosed lift area to the open, lively street is immediate, with shops and people filling the view. The Mall Road is presented as the main attraction of Shimla, characterized by its array of shops, food outlets, and branded showrooms. The atmosphere is vibrant, with numerous visitors strolling along, enjoying the pleasant weather and the unique charm of the hill station.
Exploring the Heart of Shimla: Mall Road
Mall Road is depicted as a lively commercial and cultural hub. The family walks past various establishments, including the iconic Krishna Bakery, established in 1928, and Collage Boot House, which has been in business since 1978. The street is lined with diverse shops, from souvenir stores to fashion boutiques like Jack & Jones and Levi's, as well as food outlets such as Costa Coffee and KFC. The presence of both local vendors and international brands highlights the varied shopping experience available to visitors.
Further along Mall Road, the architecture shifts to reveal heritage buildings that date back to the British era. These structures, now converted into government offices and commercial spaces, add a historical depth to the modern shopping street. Notable buildings include the Town Hall, which houses the Municipal Corporation office, and the Police Headquarters located behind it. The area also features the famous Scandal Point, a historical landmark with a unique story related to the Maharaja of Patiala and the British Viceroy's daughter. This point is marked by a statue of Lala Lajpat Rai, 'The Great Patriot of Punjab'.
The Ridge, an open space adjacent to Mall Road, offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is a popular spot for relaxation and sightseeing, with benches provided for visitors to sit and enjoy the scenery. The Ridge is also home to several statues, including those of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Yashwant Singh Parmar (the first Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh), and Virbhadra Singh (another long-serving Chief Minister). The Christ Church, a prominent yellow-colored structure, stands as an iconic landmark on The Ridge, having been featured in numerous Indian movies. The Hawa Ghar, a multi-tiered structure, is also visible, known for its appearance in the film '3 Idiots'.
Journey to Jakhu Temple and Bishop Cotton School
After exploring Mall Road and The Ridge, the Ghulatis embark on a drive to Jakhu Temple. The temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, is situated atop a hill and is famous for its towering 108-foot-tall statue of Hanuman. The drive to the temple is described as a scenic but challenging one, with narrow and steep roads winding through dense forests. The family notes that while Google Maps initially suggested a shortcut, it led to a one-way road, emphasizing the importance of local knowledge when navigating Shimla's intricate road network.
During their drive, the family passes by Bishop Cotton School, a prestigious institution with a rich history dating back to the British colonial period. The school has educated many notable personalities, including Ratan Tata, former Chief of Army Staff General K.S. Thimayya, and author Ruskin Bond. The road leading to the school is a private, one-way route, offering a glimpse into the serene and exclusive environment of the institution. Further along, they also pass St. Bede's College, another renowned educational establishment where actress Preity Zinta and Maharani Preneet Kaur (wife of Captain Amarinder Singh) were educated.
The drive to Jakhu Temple itself is an adventure, with the road becoming increasingly steep and narrow. Despite the challenging terrain, the family expresses their enjoyment of the scenic drive, highlighting the beautiful views of the pine and deodar forests. They note that while taxis often stop at a lower point, allowing passengers to walk or take a ropeway, they prefer to drive their own car to experience the full journey. Upon reaching the temple's parking area, they find a designated spot for their vehicle, costing 100 rupees. From there, a short walk up a flight of ancient steps leads directly to the temple, offering a rewarding experience for those who make the trek.
Practical Takeaways for Travelers
This Shimla journey offers several practical lessons for future travelers. Firstly, utilizing the Himachal Tourism Lift is a highly recommended and cost-effective way to access Mall Road, saving time and effort. Secondly, while navigating Shimla's roads, especially to destinations like Jakhu Temple, it is advisable to consult local sources in addition to GPS, as some routes may be one-way or particularly challenging. Parking facilities are available but can be limited, so planning ahead is beneficial. Finally, Shimla offers a blend of historical sites, bustling markets, and natural beauty, catering to various interests. Exploring on foot is often the best way to soak in the atmosphere of Mall Road and The Ridge, while the drive to Jakhu Temple provides a thrilling experience for those who enjoy hill driving.
Watch the Original Journey
This article is connected to the original Ghulatis On The Go video below. Watch it for the complete visual experience and conversations from the road.