Shimla long weekend by toy train

Day 1: Arrive in Shimla

Shimla

• Mall Road, the Ridge and Christ Church · 2.5 h. The pedestrian heart of Shimla; the lift from Cart Road saves the climb. Christ Church is lit up at night.
• Viceregal Lodge (Indian Institute of Advanced Study) · 1.5 h. Guided tours of the 1888 viceroy's residence where Partition talks took place; check the opening days.

Local tip: The pedestrian heart of Shimla; the lift from Cart Road saves the climb. Christ Church is lit up at night.

Open day 1 route in Google Maps

Day 2: Explore Shimla

Shimla

• Jakhoo Temple and ropeway · 2 h. The giant Hanuman statue tops Shimla's highest hill. Monkeys snatch glasses, phones and food — keep everything zipped away.
• Kufri and the Himalayan Nature Park · 3.5 h. About 45 min from Shimla, with snow play in winter; agree pony rates up front if you ride to Mahasu Peak.

Local tip: The giant Hanuman statue tops Shimla's highest hill. Monkeys snatch glasses, phones and food — keep everything zipped away.

Open day 2 route in Google Maps

Day 3: Kalka–Shimla toy train

Shimla

• Kalka–Shimla toy train · 5.5 h. A UNESCO-listed narrow-gauge line with 100-plus tunnels; book on IRCTC well ahead. The short hop to Shoghi or Tara Devi gives a taste in under an hour.

Local tip: A UNESCO-listed narrow-gauge line with 100-plus tunnels; book on IRCTC well ahead. The short hop to Shoghi or Tara Devi gives a taste in under an hour.

Open day 3 route in Google Maps

Day 4: Depart from Shimla

Shimla

• Himachal State Museum and Gaiety Theatre · 1.5 h. Pahari miniature paintings and local crafts; the restored Victorian Gaiety Theatre is on the Mall. The museum is closed on Mondays.

Local tip: Pahari miniature paintings and local crafts; the restored Victorian Gaiety Theatre is on the Mall. The museum is closed on Mondays.

Keep a buffer before your flight; check-out is usually noon.

Open day 4 route in Google Maps