Published: January 19, 2016 6:47 PM IST 
Shimla is so much more than a romantic getaway or a crowded hill station that families visit during summer holidays. If you plan your trip right, you can have a lot more fun on your trip here. We list five things that should definitely be in your itinerary.
British architecture at its best, visit this lodge that was once the residence of the former British viceroy of India. Today it houses the Indian Institute of Advance Study and is located on the Observatory Hills of Shimla. If you are in for a short walk, this lodge is three kilometre away from Mall Road.
The building stands tall since 1888 and even today boasts of a majestic facade. Manicured lawns greet you all the way leading up to the building. There is also a small cafeteria where you can grab a quick bite. And if you wish to know more about the buildings architecture and history, there is a guided tour every hour at a nominal fee. The Viceregal Lodge remains shut on Mondays.
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Shimla is home to many temples including the Tara Devi Temple and Kali Bari Temple. In fact, Shimla derives its name from Shyamala Devi whose temple existed in the dense forest in the Jakhu Hills in the 19th century. So it is only fair that you visit at least one of the many temples when in Shimla.
The Jakhu Temple is dedicated to Hanuman and even has a 108 ft high statue of him in his honor. This is the worlds tallest Hanuman statue and was unveiled in 2010. Since it is the temple of the Monkey God, you will find monkeys roaming around freely. But they can be notorious too so keep your personal belongings safe.
If you are up for an adventure, climb up to the temple or you could also hire a pony or taxi. If not for the statue, visit this temple for a panoramic view of the Shivalik Range from the highest peak of Shimla.
A toy train ride is not just for kids but all of you when you are in Shimla. The scenic views and the pleasant weather is an experience in itself that you surely shouldnt miss. A narrow gauge railway track, the toy train runs from Kalka to Shimla, a total of 96 km.
Make sure you secure a window seat as you will see several villages and hills on your way to Shimla including Solan, Barog, Taradevi and Summer Hill. You will also pass through several tunnels on this train ride. Did you know that in 2008 the Kalka-Shimla Railway became a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site? Dont miss this ride of a lifetime.
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Shimla can be a shoppers paradise especially if you like collecting antique things. Not just clothes and shoes, you will find several hidden gems in Shimlas local bazaars. Make a stop at Mall Roads shops where you will find branded stores and also small bookstores. If you love wine, try the local wine store where you will find local flavors including cherry, plum, etc.
For curios, knickknacks and trickets, head toLower Bazaar but if you want wooden artefacts, try Lakkar Bazaar. Shimla is also home to a Tibetan Market where you can buy souvenirs for your loved ones. Even if hate shopping, the view of the hills from these markets will keep you enthralled.
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Shimla is a wonderful place for adventure seekers. You will find many thrilling activities here. Right from being a base camp for trekkers to fishing and golfing and more, it has everything you are looking for. While the terrain of the place is challenging enough, you can also try skiing in Kufri and ice-skating at Circular Road in the winters.
Need an adrenalin rush? Try white water rafting at Tattapani or go for rappelling, rock climbing and other such activities organized by many resorts and groups. Hail Himalayas, Snow Trails Camp and Aamod Resort are a few such places.
Shimla may be one of the most popular and crowded hill stations of India but it is so for a reason. So make sure you do these and more on your next trip here. Here is a 2-day itinerary for Shimla in 60 seconds.
Photographs courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
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