Introduction

Built by the British, this 5-kilometer pedestrian-only promenade bustles with activity through the day. Along the Mall Road, you will see some of the architectural gems of colonial shimla such as the Gaiety Theater, Christ Church and the general post office. This popular road links the two ends of the town and is lined with shops, restaurants and entertainment centers – most of them still housed in buildings dating back to the British rule.

Interestingly, the Mall Road was where the Lords and Ladies once dined and wined, attended the plays at the theater and enjoyed long walks during their sojourn in the summer capital. In the present age, the Mall Road continues to lure visitors by offering them numerous entertainment options and a lively atmosphere to shop, enjoy a long walk and splurge on local specialties.

Stroll up the Ridge to the Upper Mall, where a towering neo-gothic structure with a yellow-façade catches your eye first-up. This is the Christ Church, the second oldest church in Northern India. Appreciate its lavishly adorned interiors complete with stained glass windows.

Further on, you will come across the Gaiety Theater, which in its heyday staged reproductions of famous English plays. Modeled on the 19th century theaters in London, the Gaiety Theater has the quintessential horse-shoe shaped stage, top boxes, and brilliant acoustics. The theater has been recently renovated to its original grandeur and continues to be the venue of several performances and cultural events.

Other attractions include the Scandal Point, which is ostensibly the highest point of the Mall Road. The spot has been so named due to the escapades of the Maharaja of Patiala who tried to kidnap a Viceroy’s daughter. A statue of Lala Lajpat Rai has been erected here. The General Post Office is located next to Scandal Point. Housed in a colonial architecture building, this post office has a unique tradition of delivering its post in a tonga (horse-driven carriage)!

Apart from the architectural landmarks , the Mall Road is home to several shops and restaurants and is thronged by tourists as well as locals. Souvenirs such as handicraft, pottery, woolen garments, and wooden furniture among other interesting artwork can be bought here. Some of the notable shops at the Mall include Books Emporium, Himachal Emporium and Tibetan Handloom Shop to name a few.

Special Attributes

A lovely promenade lined with colorful shops and architectural landmarks from the British era.

Nuisance

Monkeys, Dogs

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Taxis, Bus, HPTDC Lift

Enjoyed by

All

Exposure

Since, you will mostly be hopping from shop to shop, the level of exposure to the sun shall not be very high. You are, however, advised to carry your sunshades, sunscreen lotion and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

The life and bustle of Shimla is on display throughout the year.

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Visitors can also take the HPTDC lift from Cart Road to Mall Road at a nominal cost. The lift is functional from 0700 to 2100 hours and a one-way ticket costs 7 INR per person.

Type of site

Shopping and Entertainment