Wander, Wonder, and Snow: Chandrika’s Shimla Trip Review With Thrillophilia
"We were running away from the mundane, but we ended up finding magic in the simplest moments."
It was a spur-of-the-moment decision. My partner and I, both software engineers stuck in the grind of city life, needed a break — a real one. Something that wasn't about ticking off lists or fighting traffic. So, we booked a trip to Himachal through Thrillophilia, not knowing that the mountains would give us so much more than we expected.
We started our journey from Delhi, driving through winding roads and scenic landscapes, excited yet unsure of what awaited. The moment we hit the hills, everything felt different. For the next few days, we covered Manali, Solang Valley, Kasol and Shimla. And there was a quiet kind of beauty that settled over us like the mountains were gently urging us to pause and take in the moment.
Shimla: A Town That Speaks to the Soul
Shimla was the last place in our itinerary but it definitely was the most special!
The first thing that struck me was how peaceful it felt. There was no noise, no rush — just a calming silence that was so foreign to the bustling city streets. We decided to take a stroll through Mall Road. The colourful market, the scent of freshly roasted peanuts, the cheerful chatter of locals and tourists — everything made the town feel alive in a way that felt completely authentic.
The next day was dedicated to adventure. After a delicious breakfast, we made our way to Kufri, about 16 km from Shimla. The drive through the winding roads was stunning, with views that took my breath away. The snow-covered valleys and towering pine trees felt like stepping into a postcard. Kufri was exactly what I had envisioned — a winter wonderland.
We were eager to try snowboarding, and I have to say, it was one of the most thrilling experiences of the trip. There’s something magical about feeling the cold wind rush past you as you glide down a slope, surrounded by nothing but white snow and the stillness of the mountains.
After snowboarding, we visited the Himalayan Mini Zoo. The sight of the famous Himalayan Monal and the snow leopards left us in awe. But what truly made the day was the atmosphere. It wasn’t just about the activities or the animals; it was about the pure joy of being immersed in a place where nature reigns supreme.
The Charm of Shimla’s Ridge and Lakkar Bazaar
After all the adventure, we decided to take a day to simply enjoy Shimla’s charm. We spent the morning at The Ridge, a place that overlooks the entire town and offers a sweeping view of the surrounding mountains. The Christ Church stood there, calm and majestic, its history as old as the town itself.
Our walk around Lakkar Bazaar was another highlight. The market was brimming with souvenirs, from hand-carved wooden toys to woollen scarves. The locals, with their easy smiles and stories of Shimla’s colonial past, made us feel like we were part of the town's long history. We picked up a few keepsakes, but it was the conversations with the shopkeepers that I treasured the most — the stories of Shimla that brought the town to life in a way no guidebook could.
Unforgettable Moments
It wasn’t just the snow that made Shimla unforgettable — it was the way the town made us feel. Whether it was the warmth of a steaming cup of chai on a cold day or the joy of finding a hidden café with the best apple pie, every small moment added to the magic.
The food in Shimla was an experience in itself. From the crispy momos served by street vendors to the spicy pakoras that seemed to taste better in the cold air, each bite was a reminder that sometimes the best part of a trip isn’t the view or the activity — it’s the food that makes you feel connected to a place.
We also had the chance to taste some Himachali specialities like Siddu and Chana Madra. The local flavours were bold, comforting, and filled with stories of the land they came from.
A Touch of Spirituality
Although Shimla was the star of the trip, we did explore a few other spots along the way. Manali, with its towering mountains and lush landscapes, felt like a dream. We visited Hadimba Devi Temple, which seemed to blend perfectly with the towering deodar trees around it.
The temple, steeped in local mythology, had an aura of calm that made us pause for reflection.
We also visited Manikaran and Kasol, two places known for their spiritual significance. The hot springs in Manikaran were a surreal experience — the warm water seemed to wash away all the stress of our lives.
Kasol, often called "Mini Israel," was vibrant and eclectic, with its fusion of cultures and the occasional aroma of cannabis in the air. It felt like a blend of relaxation and rejuvenation — a place where you could connect with nature and your inner self.
A Place That Stays With You
It had been an experience, one that involved slowing down, breathing in the crisp mountain air, and embracing the present moment. The activities, the food, the people — everything came together to create a trip that felt more like a rediscovery of ourselves than just a vacation.
If you’re heading to Shimla, I’d suggest staying for a few days to truly soak in the atmosphere. While adventure sports like snowboarding in Kufri are a must, make time to simply wander around Mall Road, try the local food, and visit places like The Ridge and Lakkar Bazaar.
Don’t rush — let the town’s charm unfold at its own pace. And, if you’re feeling adventurous, take a day trip to Manali or Kasol for some added variety.
But no matter where you go, don’t forget to pause and take in the beauty of the mountains — it’s the little moments that will stay with you long after you leave.
Read more: Thrillophilia Shimla Reviews