Simla

Simla, also spelled Simla, is the capital and largest city of Himachal Pradesh, India. It sits in the western Himalayas at an altitude of about 2,200 meters (roughly 7,200 feet) above sea level and functions as an administrative and commercial hub. The name is commonly traced to Shyamala Devi, a form of the goddess Parvati.

Geography and climate

Simla is set among rolling hills and conifer forests, with a temperate mountain climate. Summers are cool, with daytime temperatures typically comfortable, and winters are cold, with occasional snowfall. The city experiences a distinct wet season during the monsoon.

History

Simla rose as a hill station in the early 19th century under British rule and became the summer capital of British India from 1864, housing the Viceroy’s residence during the warmer months. The Kalka–Shimla Railway, opened in 1903, links the town to the plains and is celebrated as a heritage line. In 1911, the capital was shifted to Delhi for year‑round administration, with Simla remaining the summer administrative center until independence. It subsequently became the capital of the reorganized state of Himachal Pradesh.

Modern era

Today, tourism forms the city’s main economic activity, anchored by sites such as the Mall and Ridge, Christ Church, Jakhoo Temple, and the Viceregal Lodge, which houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Study. The Shimla region is also known for its colonial-era architecture and scenic viewpoints. Transport connections include road networks, the Kalka–Shimla Railway, and a domestic airport at Jubbarhatti that serves limited air service.

Education and demographics

Simla hosts educational institutions such as Himachal Pradesh University and various government offices. The urban population is broadly in the range of several hundred thousand, contributing to its role as a regional administrative and cultural center.