Once part of the Nepalese kingdom, Shimla was known as Shyamala after the name of goddess Kali. It was not that famous until discovered by the British in 1819. In 1864, Shimla was made the summer capital of India. Until 1939, every summer the government of India packed its bags and migrated to Shimla almost 2000 km from the scorching heat of Calcutta and Delhi. After the construction of the Kalka-Shimla railway line in 1903, Shimla really blossomed. After Independence, Shimla was initially capital of Punjab and later in 1966, it became the capital of Himachal Pradesh. High season is mid-April to mid-July, mid-September to late October and mid-December to mid-January. The best time to visit is mid-September to late November.

Jakhu Temple
Jakhu temple, dedicated to monkey god, Hanumana is situated east of the town center, near the highest point of the Shimla ridge (2455m). It offers a splendid view of the surrounding valleys out to the snow-capped peaks and over Shimla itself. There are many monkeys around the temple. The temple is a steep 45-minute walk from Scandal Point. Take the footpath which heads east past Hotel Dreamland. Sunrise is a good time to be there.