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Situated in the enchanting city of Shimla, the Himachal State Museum is simply a treasure house of history, art, and culture. This museum enables visitors to view the rich heritage of Himachal Pradesh. The museum was set up in 1974 in this colonial building, which has been done beautifully and speaks of grace and elegance. It contains items of archaeological and artistic importance in its collection, such as ancient sculptures, paintings, coins, jewellery, and traditional costumes. A visit to the Himachal State Museum views something beyond just an insight into the glorious past of this state.
Himachal State Museum Location
Photo: Jazze7 / Wikimedia Commons
The Himachal State Museum is located in Shimla, the capital town of Himachal Pradesh. Sited on Mall Road, one of the most famous and busiest streets of Shimla. The address is at Chaura Maidan, Near Ambedkar Chowk, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh.
How To Reach Himachal State Museum
Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
By Air: The nearest airport to the Himachal State Museum is Jubbarhatti Airport in Shimla, about 22 km from Shimla. You can take a bus or hire a cab from the airport to the museum. You will enjoy your journey from the airport to Shimla.
By Bus: Proper road connectivity exists, and regular bus service is available from major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Manali. Private and public buses owned by the Himachal Road Transport Corporation are run to Shimla. You will take a local taxi from Shimla’s bus stand or walk 3 km towards the Himachal State Museum.
By Rail: The closest railway station to the Himachal State Museum is Shimla Railway Station, approximately 2 km away. The Kalka-Shimla Railway, as it is well called, is a small gauge railway that connects Shimla and Kalka. This route has been adopted for its scenic beauty and is listed under the UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can hire a taxi from Shimla Railway Station or stroll to the museum.
Places To Visit In And Around Himachal State Museum
Here are five places to visit around the Himachal State Museum in Shimla that you must attend during your travels. The destinations in Shimla are charming and will make your visit unforgettable.
1. Viceregal Lodge
Photo: Vworlikar / Wikimedia Commons
One of the great examples of colonial architecture is the Viceregal Lodge, otherwise called the Rashtrapati Niwas, located right in the heart of Shimla. Constructed during the British Raj, this imposing building was used as a residence for the then-British Viceroy of India. Today, it houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Study and is open to public visits. The visitors can see the marvellously preserved interior and walk through the lovely gardens. The panoramic views surrounding the hills from this lodge make it a place to attract history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 for Indian Nationals / ₹50 for Foreign Nationals
2. Jakhoo Temple
Photo: Minaxi choudhary / Wikimedia Commons
The oldest temple in Shimla, located on the top of Jakhoo Hill, which is the highest point, is the Jakhoo Temple and is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. This temple’s principal feature is a massive statue of Lord Hanuman that measures 108 feet in height and is visible from many points in the city. According to local legends, this is where Lord Hanuman rested during his quest to find the Sanjeevani herb. The temple lies amidst dense forests and offers wonderful views of the Shivalik ranges, making this a serene spot both for the spiritual seeker and the nature enthusiast.
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. The Ridge
Photo: Virusism / Wikimedia Commons
The Ridge is Shimla’s social heart, a wide open space that is always bustling with activity. Located in the city’s heart, the Ridge offers mesmerising views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains and is lined with colonial-era buildings, shops, and cafes. It’s a popular spot for cultural events and festivals, especially during summer. The Ridge also houses the famous Christ Church, of the best instances of neo-Gothic building design. The Ridge is a must-visit whether you stroll or simply soak in the atmosphere.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
4. Christ Church
Photo: ShashankSharma2511 / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most famous tourist spots, Christ Church, is on The Ridge in Shimla and is the second-oldest church in North India. The church reflects neo-Gothic architecture dating back to the city’s colonial past and dates back to 1857. Beautiful interiors mark its presence with five stained-glass windows for faith, hope, charity, patience, and humility. Its silence makes the church an ideal spot for quiet reflection and solitude. Its strategic location on The Ridge also offers a picturesque setting, making it a famous spot for tourists and photographers.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
5. Mall Road
Photo: Virusism / Wikimedia Commons
Mall Road is considered the main street of Shimla, a place jam-packed running along the entire length of the city. This street is for pedestrians only and fringes with shops, cafes, restaurants, and colonialist-era buildings, providing the ideal combination of contemporary amenities and old-world charm. You can take a stroll down the Mall Road for shopping and look for local Himachali cuisine or take a stroll with the views of the surroundings so vivid.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
Where To Stay
Photo: Navneet Sharma / Wikimedia Commons
While one rushes to visit the Himachal State Museum, various accommodations are available, whether budget hotels or luxury resorts. Some popular modes include Hotel Willow Banks, with its panoramic view of mountains, just a short walk from Mall Road, and Clarke’s Hotel, standing there as an epitome of heritage property that best blends colonial charm and modern amenities. If you have a tight budget, you can choose a Hotel Holiday Home with comfortable stays and easy access to major attractions.
Where To Eat
Photo: Chan Walrus / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
This city offers many options for traditional Himachali dishes and other international flavours. To taste some local Himachali dishes, visit Himachali Rasoi on Mall Road, which serves traditional and authentic food in a conventional setting. Another popular eatery is Cafe Shimla Times, where you can get food with a great variety of Indian and international cuisine. Freshly baked sweets from the famous Krishna Bakery on Mall Road will satisfy your sweet cravings if you are up to it.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Virusism / Wikimeddia Commons
The best time to visit the Himachal State Museum is during the summer months of April to June when Shimla keeps calm weather conditions and is most suitable for sightseeing. The range of temperatures at this time is 15°C to 30°C, which makes it feasible to roam freely within the museum and other famous places. However, other suitable times to visit are from September to November, for autumn months are still gentle, and people are fewer than in the summer rush.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
Now, a visit to Shimla with all activities would come at the convenience of everyone’s wallet, from the Himachal State Museum to adventure sports or any other outdoor activities. The entry fee for the Himachal State Museum in Shimla is INR 20 per person for Indians and INR 100 for foreigners. An average three-day trip to Shimla could, therefore, cost about ₹10,000 to ₹20,000 per person for accommodation, food, transport arrangements, and entrance issues in places of interest.
Tips For Travelers
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as Shimla involves walking around hills.
- Even in summer, one should carry a light jacket or sweater as it becomes cold in the evenings.
- Always have some cash on you because some smaller shops and places to eat won’t take cards.
- If you want a laid-back experience, stop by this museum early in the day to avoid the crowds.
- Respect the local culture and traditions when planning a visit to religious places, and be friendly to the people.
- Clicking photos at Himachal State Museum will keep your memories fresh.
On your visit, taking advantage of the Himachal State Museum is about as important as an individual keen on learning more about the history and culture of Himachal Pradesh could do. Ancient artefacts and colonial relics, there’s so much to explore. Let not a single chance slip away to come across this cultural hub. Ready to explore Himachal? Book your trip now with TripXL and take an unforgettable journey.
Cover Photo: Jazze7 / Wikimedia Commons
