No Phone, No GPS, Just Me And Shimla—What Happened Next Left Me Speechless

Shimla, which serves as the capital of Himachal Pradesh, has a unique fusion of colonial history and stunning nature. It is located in the foothills of the Himalayas and is famous for its steep slopes, winding roads and hidden pathways. So, here is the question: what happens when you attempt a 24 hour experience in Shimla without a map? The answer lies in the exhilaration that comes from getting lost, the unexpected surprises, and the joy of surrendering to the city.

The Morning: A Serendipitous Start

Your day begins at the very crown of Shimla, The Ridge. Now, without a map, you’re free to follow your instincts. The crisp morning air mesmerizes you with the aroma of pine trees while the sun gives black and white photographs a golden hue. While continuing to walk aimlessly, you come across a neo gothic style church, Christ Church, one of the most famous landmarks that has a brilliant design alongside stained glass windows. But the highlight of Christ Church is the silence, a perfect way to set a light meditative mood before the adventures ahead.

You retrieve your notes and head outside the church, then continue walking down towards Shimla’s Mall Road, which happens to be heavily populated. You take a break at one of the local cafes, where you order a cup of hot chai and some fried pakoras. Since you are not using a map, you aren’t restricted to any time constraints. Given the area is new to you, the cafe owner makes a point to intervene, telling you about an off-the-beaten-path trail that can be found at the back of the restaurant. This gets you curious, so you venture out onto what seems to be a narrow path covered with dense foliage. The sound of rustling leaves and chirping birds have replaced the noises of the city. You take a minute and reflect on the undisturbed peace nature has to offer. 

The Afternoon: Lost and Found 

The time is somewhere around 12:00, meaning you have wandered away from the main tourist highlights. You notice that these new paths lead you to some obscure Gujjar huts at the edge of Shimla. Time seems to come to a standstill in the newly explored village. You start noticing the streets come to life with small children playing while the women are busy gardening and men gossip outside small stores. At some point, the friendliness reaches another level when a family invites you to join them for lunch. You are quickly introduced to the delights of authentic Himachali cuisine consisting of siddu (steamed bread) and madra (a yogurt-based curry). Their warm hospitality allows you to forget about the feeling of being lost.

Your journey continues as you’re now refreshed. Without a map, every direction you take is new. You find a waterfall with crystal-clear water that flows over rocks covered in moss. Its refreshing sight soothes you deeply. As you unwind, you gently dip your feet in the cool water allowing the sounds of falls to wash your worries away. 

You’re now back in the city, though it is not familiar. As the sun moves into the afternoon, you find yourself in Lakkar Bazaar—famous for wooden handicrafts. Overhead, brightly colored stalls brim with intricate toys and carved photo frames. As you talk to a local artisan, you learn a lot about Shimla, its culture and history. By being map-less, you have found a part of the city which is untainted by tourists.

The Evening: A Journey During Twilight

At dusk, the lights of Shimla glimmer like stars against the darkening sky. Without a map, you can adventure towards Jakhoo Temple, located at the highest peak of Shimla, and the climb is steep. However, the panoramic view of the city is worth the trek. Surrounded by playful monkeys, the temple is fantasy-like and adds granularity to your Shimla adventure.

You descend the city once more, cooler air brushing your skin. The streets are filled with life, and you suddenly discover a local theater that is currently carrying out a cultural performance. So, out of impulse, you buy a ticket, wanting to submerge yourself in the music and dance of Himachal Pradesh. The region’s heritage is seriously astounding, and you walk away with a greater appreciation for the city.

The Night: An Ending in Silence

At the end of the day, Scandal Point awaits, which makes for a great resting site with one of the most riveting claims to fame. It is said that the point gets its name due to a scandal that an English Officer had with a local princess. Nowadays, it is a great place to wind down after a long day of exploration. The sparkling night lights of the city envelopes you as the faint sound of laughter and music dances through the breeze. 

From Shimla’s unique hidden trails to getting the chance to eat with the locals, you have explored the beautiful town like very few have done before. It is this exact realization which gives you the motivation to make your way back. And indeed, getting lost is the best way to reflect.

Final Thoughts: The Thrill of Being Off the Grid

The city of Shimla offers a plethora of hidden gems that can be found while exploring the city without following a map. It is also a gentle reminder that the essence of traveling lies in the experience itself. It can be said that in Shimla, every turn has a new surprise in store, every hike has a beautiful story, and every conversation is one that you are sure to cherish. Therefore, next time when you’re visiting this mesmerizing city, remember to abandon the map because Shimla will unfold its wonders to you. The endless possibilities awaiting you are what make Shimla truly remarkable.

 

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