The following morning we travelled to Shimla. We started by taking the express train from Delhi to Kalka which was four and a half hours. The carriages were very comfortable and we were provided with complimentary tea, coffee, water and meals. At Kalka we changed trains for the toy train to Shimla. This was a small train with wooden narrow seats and travelled 10km per hour up the mountains. The total journey took 6 hours with a couple of stops where you could get off and stretch your legs. We spent half the time standing by the open doors.
Despite the long journey and uncomfortable conditions, the scenery was stunning as we climbed the mountain. Shimla is 7800 ft above sea level and the train winds round the mountain alongside the roads to reach the top. It is a fairly amazing experience.
When we arrived it was late and dark and quite cold so it was a quick meal and bed. We cannot open our bedroom windows though as the streets are full of monkeys who will get in the rooms and cause havoc.
The next day we had a tour of Shimla followed by a walk down the mall before being left to our own devices. Because the town is built into a mountain you have to take lifts from the road to the mall. We walked up and down the mall but were disappointed with what was on offer. Even the Tibetan Market was not as expected. It was not until we were on the way home that a local told us to avoid the mall and go the the lower markets. The best bit of the day was when Mum was mugged by a monkey on the walk home!
The next day we visited the imposing monkey temple which is the highest statute on the highest point in the world, apparently. You can see the orange idol from town but close up you appreciate the true scale. The place is full of monkeys and you need to hold onto everything. We also got blessed in the temple which was glorious and a fantastic calming place.
We also climbed further up the mountains to view the Himalayas and the view was just breathtaking. The skyline at 360 degrees was covered by snowy mountains and in front and where we stood was green lush land with sunshine, the contrast was amazing. Well worth the hike!
This afternoon it was back to shopping. We decided against the lift and hiked up slopes and steps to Lower Market which was full of spices, textiles, bangles and clothing all reasonably priced and all so gorgeous. We made our way up the hills and slopes to the other hidden markets and continued to find bargain after bargain. If in Shimla, avoid the Mall and enjoy the real buzz of the local markets with their beautiful wares and yummy food stalls.
But mind the monkeys, they are everywhere and jump down on you from the trees! A few days ago we were walking down the road with cows and pigs and now we are being harassed by monkeys!
We were glad we took this extension, it is very different to the rest of India we have seen but glorious and well worth visiting.
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Location:India
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