From Zero To Insta-Pro In One Day: My DIY Shimla Photo Tour That Broke The Internet

Shimla is the immaculate capital city of Himachal Pradesh that serves as a pearl for picturesque photographers. Shimla’s landscape is lined with stunning temples, colonial architecture, vibrant markets and exquisite hill stations that provide a chance to capture all the beauty that it has to offer. If you are a beginner or experienced at photgraphy, Shimla is perfect for every type of setting. I have created a simple photography guide to capture Shimla’s beauty through your lens that includes seven fascinating locations.

1. The Ridge

Indeed, The Ridge is the heart of Shimla. It is home to Christ Church which is one of the eminent locations of Shimla. Without question, Christ Church is what gives The Ridge its identity and is a legendary landmark for Shimla. The Twin Hills covered with broad green forest can also be seen from the Ridge. Simla’s famous heritage buildings, like the Town Hall, Gorton Castle, and several others, also add their beauty to The Ridge. Whether you are in the mood of capturing crystal clear lakes, magnificently carved temples, historical forts or busy city life, the Ridge has something for every enthusiast.

Best Time to Shoot:

Best time to take photographs at The Ridge is during early morning and after sunset when lighting is perfect for a less crowded area. The sunset period is also perfect as the photographs acquired are full of beauty with the hills highlighted by the setting sun.

Tips:

Do not drop your zoom lens at home. Include people, the church, and the breathtaking background in one frame while capturing with the zoom lens.

2. Mall Road

Away from nature, Mall Road is the busiest well maintained area of Shimla. Combining modern retail stores with heritage buildings and cafes delights everyone who visits the place. Street photography of locals and tourists along with vibrant market stalls and stunning Himalayan range in the distance is at its prime. The blend of old world aesthetics with modern day Mal Road Charm is what makes it mesmerizing.

Best Time to Shoot:

Prior to the day’s hustle and bustle, Mall Road looks picturesque in the morning. Alone during this time will set you in the right mood for the day while being active and sharp due to warm glow that surrounds you.

When the artificial lanterns are turned on and the sun sets, these streets become enchanting.

Tips:

Make use of the camera’s street photography feature to capture the locals engaging with tourists and shop owners. 

3. Jakhu Temple

Jakhu temple captures a completely different side of Shimla. Located at the highest point, Jakhu hill, this temple of Lord Hanuman provides one of the best panoramic views of the landscape. The route leading towards the temple is equally beautiful with lofty deodar trees. This location serves as a wonderful opportunity to engage in nature photography due to its scenic views.

Best Time to Shoot:

When the light is soft and fog adds an ethereal touch to the scenery, it’s early in the morning or late evening during quieter times at the temple. Additionally, during monsoon season, the hilltop gets mystically covered in mist therefore making it a great time to capture photos. 

Tips:

Try melding the mountainous scenery in the background with the temple’s statue of Lord Hanuman to get a majestic shot. 

4. Kufri

After Shimla, you will find Kufri just 16 kilometers away which is known for its beautiful landscapes and winter sports. There’s plenty to admire such as the panoramic views of the Himalayan range and the snowy beauty that Kufri provides. Similarly, you can enjoy the middle of summer with the blooming meadow flowers and gently rolling hills. 

Best Time to Shoot:

Winter is the best time to capture the snow covered landscape in Kufri. You can also capture snowy views in the early morning during times when the light is soft and foggy. 

Tips:

If you’re visiting in the winter, bring a polarizing filter to enhance the whiteness of the snow and the rich blue skies.

5. Viceregal Lodge

Also called Rashtrapathi Niwas, the Viceregal Lodge is a legendary piece of architecture in Shimla. Previously a summer resort for the British Viceroy, this place is now a museum. With Victorian architecture and sprawling gardens, this place is a history and architecture lover’s paradise. The lodge offers beautiful views of the distant hills and forests.

Best Time to Shoot

Capture pictures during late afternoons when they sun casts a golden hue around the lodge.

In spring, the flowers blooming in the garden make for beautiful photographs.

Tips:

Details of the architecture such as the wooden windows gnarled stone arches and grand doors of the lodge are stunning. Capture those.

 

In Conclusion

Shimla is a wonderful place for shutterbugs to explore. Be it the Mall Road, full of its hustle and bustle, Annandale’s serenity or the Jakhoo Temple’s panoramic view, each place has its unique charm. When a photographer plans a trip to Shimla depends on so much on their clear and keen intentions. Are they more drawn to soft morning light, golden hour of sunset, or the misty monsoon season? 

Grab the gear and be ready to once again make stunning images of Shimla.

 

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