One Week in Shimla: Relaxed Himalayan Living & Hidden Gems

Why Spend a Week in Shimla?

While a quick visit offers a glimpse, a longer stay in Shimla allows you to go beyond the touristy highlights and enjoy a slower, more meaningful mountain experience. With a dedicated one week in Shimla, you get to explore nearby villages, embark on invigorating day hikes, engage with friendly locals, and even try wellness routines amidst the serene hills. This comprehensive Shimla travel guide ensures you uncover the true essence of Himalayan living.

7-Day Itinerary for Your One Week Shimla Trip

This detailed Shimla itinerary provides a perfect balance of popular attractions and serene hidden gems in Shimla, ensuring a truly immersive experience during your one week in Shimla.

Day 1–2: Local Shimla Highlights

Start your one week in Shimla by immersing yourself in the vibrant core of the town, soaking in its colonial charm and lively atmosphere. These first two days of your Shimla itinerary cover the most iconic and easily accessible places to visit in Shimla.

Day 1: Explore the Heart of Shimla

one week in Shimla-The Ridge & Mall Road

The Ridge & Mall Road – Begin your exploration with a leisurely stroll through Shimla’s iconic center. This bustling area is filled with charming shops, cozy cafés, and impressive colonial buildings. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere and is undoubtedly one of the top places to visit in Shimla.
Christ Church – Visit one of the oldest churches in North India, renowned for its beautiful neo-Gothic architecture and serene ambiance.
Lakkar Bazaar – Dive into this unique market known for its wooden crafts. Here, you can shop for intricate wooden souvenirs, warm woollens, and traditional Himachali caps.
Evening Tip: As the day winds down, head to Scandal Point to catch a breathtaking sunset, followed by a comforting hot chai at the historic Indian Coffee House.

Day 2: Nature, Temples & Local Life

Day two of your Shimla itinerary takes you to natural wonders and spiritual sites, offering a blend of adventure and tranquility.

Jakhoo Temple – Embark on a steep climb (or enjoy a scenic cable car ride for convenience) to this hilltop Hanuman temple. It offers not only spiritual calm but also unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
Kufri (15 km away) – A popular excursion from Shimla, Kufri is perfect for horse rides, enjoying snow fun (especially magical in winter), and exploring its adventure park. This is a highly recommended spot in any Shimla travel guide.
Himalayan Nature Park – Enjoy a peaceful walk through this park, surrounded by lush flora and diverse Himalayan fauna, providing a serene escape.
Evening: Indulge in a delightful dinner at Cafe Simla Times, known for its inviting ambiance. Don’t forget to try their wood-fired pizza and local brews.

Day 3: Day Trip to Mashobra & Craignano

Venture out to the tranquil surroundings of Mashobra, a perfect escape for nature lovers on your Shimla itinerary.

Visit Craignano Nature Park – Explore serene pine forests, lush orchards, and peaceful walking trails.
Explore Mashobra village – Enjoy the clean mountain air, quiet walks, and picturesque apple orchards, experiencing genuine Himalayan living.
Have lunch at Wildflower Hall (Oberoi) for a luxurious meal with breathtaking views, a true highlight of your Shimla travel guide.

Day 4: Naldehra & Tattapani

Discover more of Shimla’s natural beauty and unique experiences on day four of your Shimla itinerary.

Visit the Naldehra Golf Course – Play a round or simply admire India’s oldest golf course, set amidst stunning deodar forests.
Drive to Tattapani – Relax and rejuvenate in natural hot springs, known for their therapeutic baths.
Optional: Experience exhilarating river rafting in the Sutlej River (seasonal), adding an adventurous twist to your one week in Shimla.

Day 5: Hike & Mindful Retreat

Dedicate a day to wellness and nature, a key aspect of Himalayan living in this Shimla itinerary.

Start your day with a guided morning yoga session for inner peace.
Do the Glen Forest Trail – Enjoy an easy hike through dense cedar forests, perfect for connecting with nature.
Optional: Participate in a meditation session at Arya Yoga Retreat for a deeper mindful experience.

Day 6: Explore Local Villages & Culture

Immerse yourself in authentic Himachali culture with a day trip to nearby villages, a unique part of your Shimla itinerary. This offers a glimpse into local Himalayan living during your one week in Shimla.

Day trip to Fagu or Theog – Experience the charm of rural Himachali life and traditional architecture.
Try a traditional lunch at a local homestay.
Learn about apple farming or handloom weaving (guided tours available), deepening your understanding of Himalayan living.

Day 7: Leisure & Shopping

Conclude your one week in Shimla with relaxation and souvenir hunting.

Relax with coffee, music, and books at the cozy Book Cafe.
Pick up unique souvenirs and enjoy a slow, leisurely walk down the bustling Mall Road.
Wrap up your trip with dinner and a final sunset view at Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar.

Ideal for:

This extended Shimla itinerary is ideal for:

Couples seeking a romantic getaway
Digital nomads looking for a peaceful work environment
Solo travelers desiring introspection and adventure
Wellness seekers focused on rejuvenation
Senior citizens looking for a relaxed pace
Slow travelers who prefer deep immersion

A one week in Shimla trip provides ample space to detox digitally, write, journal, or simply breathe the pure mountain air, truly embracing Himalayan living.

Hidden Gems to Visit:

Beyond the main attractions, explore these hidden gems in Shimla for a unique experience during your one week in Shimla:

Chadwick Falls
Summer Hill Station
Kamna Devi Temple
Potter Hill viewpoint

Packing Tips for Your One Week Shimla Trip:

Prepare adequately for your one week in Shimla with these packing essentials:

Warm layers even in summer, as evenings can be cool.
Comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.
Power banks and offline maps (internet may be patchy in some areas).
Sunscreen, lip balm, and hydration essentials to combat the mountain air.

Summary:

A one week in Shimla trip lets you deeply immerse in Himalayan calm, enjoy nature and spirituality, and return with a lighter mind and a healthier body. It’s not just a holiday—it’s a slow wellness journey into the heart of Himalayan living. This comprehensive Shimla travel guide ensures you experience the very best of the region.

Planning a trip to Himachal Pradesh? Don’t miss our other posts on amazing places in the Shimla District.

What Do You Think?

Have you spent a one week in Shimla? What were your favorite hidden gems in Shimla? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below! If you found this Shimla travel guide helpful, please share it with fellow travelers.

Stay curious. Stay adventurous.