Shimla is the capital city of the Indian State Himachal Pradesh as well as a very charming holiday destination. This year’s monsoon season has taken its toll, however, and local tourism is suffering.
The British named it “Queen of Hills” and Shimla truly is a Himalayan spectacle. The city has long been visited by holiday-makers and tourists. As many other places in the region, the monsoon season is unavoidable, and locals have been trying to get accustomed to it.
Curious tourists will discover that the season offers significant discounts which lure the less-demanding visitors who do not mind rougher conditions. However, this year’s monsoon season seems to have gone rather wild. Landslides have been known to happen there during the monsoons ever so often and the longer the rain lasts, the higher the risks.
Consistent rainfall this season has had a major influence on tourism numbers, resulting in a drop of visits by nearly 50% compared to normal year. Many local hotel owners confirm many tourists have cancelled their bookings. And usually, this is the time when mountain bikers, trekkers and adventure sports enthusiasts come in hundreds. However, the situation is unlikely to take a happier turn anytime soon, considering the rains have entirely filled the major dams of Bhakra and Pong.
Shimla, also known as Simla, sits in an average altitude of 2,023 meters. It is a picturesque city with a unique natural setting and beautiful architecture dating back to colonial times. Not only is Shimla an important trade and transportation hub, it is also a reputed healthcare centre. Local summers are wonderful and tourists enjoy many of the sites, such as the busy shopping street The Mall, the Gaiety Theatre, and Christ Church (the second oldest church in Northern India).