Shimla: Toy Train Ride and City Highlights Day Tour

Planning a day trip to Shimla that balances history, culture, and scenic beauty? This guided tour offers a wonderful taste of Himachal Pradesh’s capital, combining iconic sights with a classic train journey. We’re here to give you an honest, detailed look at what makes this experience truly worthwhile—and whether it’s the right fit for your travel style.

What we love about this tour: the unforgettable UNESCO World Heritage toy train ride, the chance to explore the stately Indian Institute of Advanced Studies housed in the historic Viceregal Lodge, and the opportunity to browse through Lakkar Bazaar for some authentic Himachali crafts. The tour also includes a visit to the vibrant Mall Road, where you’ll see key landmarks like Christ Church and the Railway Board Building, topped off with a delicious lunch at Ashiana Restaurant.

One possible consideration is that this tour involves around 2 hours of walking along Mall Road, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate activity. Travelers who enjoy cultural sights, scenic rides, and lively markets will find it a great value, especially given the comprehensive itinerary packed into a single day.

Key Points

• UNESCO World Heritage Toy Train offers a scenic and historic experience through Shimla’s lush landscapes.
• Historic landmarks like the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies and Christ Church provide insight into colonial and political histories.
• Vibrant markets such as Lakkar Bazaar are ideal for souvenirs and local handicrafts.
• Guided tour ensures a knowledgeable narrative, with flexibility to adapt if you’ve already explored some sites.
• Delicious local cuisine at Ashiana Restaurant adds a flavorful touch to your day.
• Comfortable, inclusive experience with transportation, entrances, and a friendly guide, though it’s not suited for those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Look at the Shimla Day Tour

If you’re looking for a manageable yet enriching way to see Shimla in a day, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s designed to give you a well-rounded experience, focusing on highlights that tell the story of Shimla’s colonial past, natural beauty, and lively local culture.

The UNESCO Toy Train Ride: A Living Piece of History

Starting your day with a 40-minute UNESCO World Heritage toy train ride is truly a highlight. This train, which has chugged through Himachal’s hills since the early 20th century, offers a rare glimpse into the engineering marvels of the past. We loved the way the train winds through tunnels carved into mountains, crosses charming bridges, and offers panoramic views of lush valleys and pine forests.

One review mentions how the initial train journey was canceled but that the tour operator, Trans Himalaya Travels, went the extra mile—finding an alternative route so travelers could still enjoy the ride. That adaptability is a plus and shows the commitment of the guides and drivers to providing a memorable experience.

Exploring the Viceregal Lodge and Indian Institute of Advanced Studies

A key part of the tour is a visit to the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies (IIAS), housed in the grand Viceregal Lodge. Built in 1888, this Scottish Baronial-style building served as the summer retreat for British Viceroys and is steeped in history. Walking through its spacious halls and expansive gardens, you’ll see why it’s considered one of the most impressive colonial-era structures in India.

Beyond the architecture, the IIAS offers insights into the political discussions from the era, including those that led to India’s partition. Our guide, whose knowledge brought the history to life, explained these nuances in an engaging way, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.

The Himachal State Museum: A Peek into Local Culture

Next, the Himachal State Museum provides a dive into the region’s art, culture, and traditions. The collection features traditional costumes, paintings, and artifacts that reflect Himachal’s diverse heritage. It’s a quiet, contemplative space that enriches your understanding of the local people and their history.

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Strolling Along Mall Road: A Lively Hub

No visit to Shimla is complete without a walk down Mall Road. This bustling promenade is the city’s heartbeat, lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. You’ll see the Railway Board Building, the Municipal Corporation, and the elegant Gaiety Theatre.

It’s worth taking your time here—stopping for a coffee or snack, browsing through shops, or simply soaking up the atmosphere. The tour includes stops at some of these landmarks, with the flexibility to explore further on your own.

Lunch at Ashiana Restaurant

Midday, the tour takes you to Ashiana Restaurant, a popular spot on Mall Road with great views and a reputation for tasty North Indian cuisine. The lunch offers a welcome break and a chance to indulge in some local flavors, with reviews praising the quality of the food and the friendly service.

Shopping at Lakkar Bazaar

The tour concludes at Lakkar Bazaar, a lively market famous for wooden handicrafts, souvenirs, and cozy woolens. This is a favorite among travelers wanting authentic keepsakes or gifts. It’s a relaxed way to wind down, and the guide often helps with insights into the crafts and bargaining tips.

Practical Details and Tips

This tour is priced at $67 per person, which covers transportation, entrances, the toy train ticket, and the guide. We think this is good value considering the comprehensive itinerary and experienced guides who bring the sites to life.

The entire day lasts about 8 hours, beginning with a pickup (included) and ending at the drop-off point. The tour is suitable for most travelers but not ideal for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, as there is around 2 hours of walking along Mall Road.

What to bring: comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing (Shimla can be chilly even in warmer months), a camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended. Avoid smoking during the tour, as it’s not permitted.

Booking tip: You can reserve your spot with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which adds flexibility to your plans.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

One of the things that stood out from the reviews is how guides like the one in the feedback go out of their way, even improvising when trains are canceled, to ensure travelers get the full experience. The personal touch makes a big difference, especially when navigating a busy, picturesque city like Shimla.

Travelers often comment on the knowledgeable guides who explain the stories behind each landmark, turning a sightseeing day into a meaningful cultural journey. The scenic train ride, with its vintage charm, is the standout feature, but the historical insights and local market visits keep the day engaging from start to finish.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, scenic lovers, and anyone who wants a taste of Shimla’s colonial past without feeling rushed. The combination of a heritage train, a stately mansion, and lively markets also makes it great for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a balanced day out.

If you’re after a relaxed, informative day that combines scenic beauty with cultural insights, this tour offers solid value and memorable moments. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and be ready for some walking.

FAQ

Is the toy train ride suitable for all ages?
Yes, the 40-minute ride is suitable for most, but younger children should be supervised as it involves some walking and riding on vintage trains.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable shoes are a must for walking along Mall Road and exploring the museums. Layered clothing is advisable since Shimla’s weather can be cool, especially in mornings and evenings.

Are meals included?
Lunch at Ashiana Restaurant is included in the tour price, offering North Indian cuisine with good views. Additional snacks or drinks are at your own expense.

Can I customize the tour?
The tour is guided and tends to follow a set itinerary, but guides are usually flexible and can adapt if you’ve already seen some sites or want more time at particular stops.

How long does the entire tour last?
Expect around 8 hours, including pickup, sightseeing, and shopping time.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments due to walking and the uneven terrain of some sites.

Final Thoughts

For travelers wanting a rich, authentic glimpse of Shimla in a day, this tour hits many of the right notes. You’ll experience the charm of a vintage train, walk through historic architecture, learn about Himachal’s cultural fabric, and enjoy the buzz of Mall Road—all guided by friendly, knowledgeable experts.

The carefully curated stops, combined with the flexibility to adjust based on your prior sightseeing, make this a practical choice for most visitors. The inclusion of transportation, entries, and a local meal means you can focus on soaking in every moment without fussing over logistics.

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, heritage, and local flavor, making it a worthwhile addition to your Shimla itinerary. If you’re after a meaningful yet manageable day out, this experience could become one of your favorite memories of Himachal Pradesh.

You can check availability for your dates here: