Leisure Tourism in Shimla District includes several exploring sites like ancient temples, museums, botanical gardens and much more. The spectacular cool hills of Shimla accompanied by the structures made during the colonial era create an aura, which is very different from other hill stations.

Bulging at its seams with unprecedented expansion, Shimla retains its colonial heritage, with grand old buildings, among them are the stately Viceregal Lodge, Charming iron lamp posts and Anglo-Saxon names. The Mall, packed with shops and eateries, is the centre of attraction of the town, and Scandal Point, associated with the former Maharaja of Patiala`s escapades, offers a view of distant snow clad peaks. At the seams bulging with unprecedented expansion Shimla still retains its colonial heritage Shimla is the former summer capital of the British in India, and the present capital of Himachal Pradesh that is blessed with all the natural bounties which one can think of.

Himachal State Museum and Library: The museum is located at around 2.5 kms west of the scandal point and opens daily except on Mondays for the visitors. It has got a good collection of ancient historical sculptures, paintings, coins, photos and other items from all over the state as well as outside the state. There is also a library, which houses many historical books and manuscripts.

Viceregal Lodge: On the Observatory Hills is located Viceregal Lodge, which is also known as `Rashtrapati Niwas`. This magnificent building was the residence of the British Viceroy Lord Dufferin. This lodge was completed in 1888 and it is said that every brick for the building was carried by mules. This building is surrounded by well-maintained gardens and lawns. The lodge has now been converted into Institute of Advanced Study. It is one of the heritages of Shimla.

Wild Flower Hall: On the Mahasu range, at Charabra, 13 km from Shimla, is the Wild Flower Hall situated at an altitude of 2,498 metres. Nestled among picturesque surroundings, the Wild Flower Hall commands a breathtaking view of the snows.

Mashobra: This place is situated at around 10 kms from Shimla on Shimla-Naldehra road at a height of 2149 metres. A place of unique beauty, Mashobra is an ideal interlude beneath the oaks and the pines. Featuring beautiful gardens spattered with the daffodils, hyacinths, asphodels and celandines, it is a popular weekend resort, dotted with delightful villas and innumerable picnic spots. Here, Goddess Durga temple is worth seeing.

Kufri: Kufri, at distance of 16 km from Shimla and at an altitude of 2510 metres above sea level, is a site offering some famous hikes and wonderful snow for skiing in winters. An enjoyable walk leads up to the Mahasu Peak. The Himalayan Nature Park here has a good collection of animals and birds found in the region.

Narkanda: This attractive tourist site is at around 64 kms from Shimla. Narkanda offers wonderful slopes for skiing. At an elevation of 2708 metres, it has dense pine forests. Hatu peak, 8 kms from Narkanda, provides a striking panorama of the plains below. Narkanda offers spectacular views of snow ranges. Ancient temple of Hatu Mata is alive with skiers.

Fagu: Fagu is situated on Hindustan-Tibet Road 22 kms from Shimla, at a height of 2,450 metres. Fagu is gifted with some enchanting views.

Chail: It is located at around 43 kms from Shimla. Chail has a lush green setting and was the former capital of Patiala state. It has the world`s highest cricket ground at a height of 2250 metres, built in 1893. It is also a hiker`s paradise and there is a wildlife sanctuary at a distance of 3 km from here.

Sarahan: On Hindustan Tibet Road beyond Rampur is a small village worth visiting. It provides a spectacular view of Shrikhand Mahadev (5227 metres) and hiking opportunities to the nearby villages such as Ranwin and Bashal Peak. The Bhimakali temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, is the finest example of Indo-Tibetan architecture. As per legend, this is where Shakti destroyed the mythical demon king, Bhasmasura. It is a highly revered place of pilgrimage. Sarahan is the gateway to Kinnaur. A Pheasant Breeding Centre and stadium are worth visiting. The area is a rich bowl of quality apples and other varieties of delicious fruits.

Tattapani: Tattapani, 51 km from Shimla, is a spot well known for hot sulphurous springs. Shiv Goofa at Saraur is also worth visiting. One can enjoy fishing here.

Naldehra: Naldehra, at an altitude of 2050 metres and 23 km from Shimla on Shimla- Tattapani road, houses the oldest and the highest golf course in India. In the middle of the course is a temple, Mahunag Mandir.

Kotgarh: Kotgarh lies at around 82 kms from Shimla and is the apple heartland of Himachal. Kotgarh continues to be one of the most intensive apple growing areas in the country with acres of orchards lining the slopes of this untouched dreamland. The view of the Sutlej River during the day and the enchanting lights of this beautiful valley at night are a photographer`s delight.