Simla
A luxury trip to Simla blends colonial elegance, crisp Himalayan air, and curated travel and attractions. Check into the Oberoi Cecil or Wildflower Hall, where wood‑panelled lounges, crackling fireplaces, and spa terraces overlook blue‑washed ridges. Begin at the iconic Mall Road, strolling past Gaiety Theatre and Christ Church before pausing for high tea at the colonial‑era Oberoi Clarkes. For a quieter slice of history, wander to Viceregal Lodge on Observatory Hill, its manicured lawns and stone corridors whispering days of the British Raj.
Reserve a day for Kufri and Fagu, gliding along misty mountain roads toward cedar forests and snow‑kissed viewpoints. Private drivers can stop at panoramic bends for photographs without the crowds. On return, book a bespoke spa ritual using Himalayan botanicals, then savor slow multi‑course dinners featuring trout from mountain streams and delicate Himachali dham reinterpretations.
At dawn, ride the UNESCO‑listed Kalka–Shimla toy train in a first‑class carriage, watching sunbeams spill over terraced villages and deodar slopes. In the evening, browse Lakkar Bazaar for hand‑carved walking sticks, pashmina shawls, and brassware, followed by cocktails at a rooftop bar above the twinkling valley.
Plan your visit between March and June or October and November for clear skies and comfortable temperatures. With chauffeured transfers, heritage suites, and curated excursions, Simla becomes a serene, indulgent Himalayan retreat.