What kind of a Place is Shimla?
“Peace and solace are within you, Shimla will only unearth this from your within.”- Ashwani Kumari
A place can hold different significance for different people. For some, it may be a dream destination, while for others, it may be a familiar weekend spot where routine finds its rhythm. Some seek joy and excitement, viewing the place as an escape into the enchanting embrace of nature. Meanwhile, others embark on a journey to find peace from their tangled situations. One such place is Shimla, a picturesque hill station nestled in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. Although I am not a native of this place, I have had the privilege of calling it my home for the past 9 years while pursuing my higher education.
What is Shimla for me?
Other than this, it’s a place where the whispers of time remind me not to cling to fleeting chapters, gently reminding me that preserving one’s peace takes precedence in the moments of disruption and agitation and taught me to embrace the transient nature of life. Due to all these reasons, in the times of hurt and frustration, I find peace and solace on Mall Road, Shimla by decluttering unnecessary thoughts.
Is Shimla worth visiting?
Absolutely! For nature lovers, mountain enthusiasts, history buffs, and the spiritually inclined, Shimla is a must-visit destination. Renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Shimla provides breathtaking views and a serene environment.
Who should visit Shimla?
Explorers
Those who love nature, mountains, historical monuments, and have a spiritual inclination should definitely give a visit to Shimla. The town is famous for its breathtaking views, serene environment, and iconic locations like the Mall Road, Town Hall, Gaiety Theatre, and the Viceregal Lodge. It boasts numerous religious sites, including Jakhoo Temple, Christ Church, Tara Devi Temple, Kali Bari Temple, Bhimakali Temple, and more. Shimla owns its charm due to all these places.
Nature Lovers
Shimla offers lush greenery, snow-capped peaks, and meandering trails. Whether it’s a leisurely walk-through Conifer forests, a thrilling adventure on nearby slopes, or simply soaking in panoramic views, Shimla has something to offer for everyone.
How Shimla is a Blessing to Peace Lovers?
Before anything, the first question which comes to our mind is, ‘What is peace truly?’ Peace is a state of mental calmness, free from any disturbance or conflict.
How can we attain peace at a place?
Actually, in the right frame of our mind, we can achieve peace anywhere, even within our homes. However, sometimes due to certain situations, we are not at ease with ourselves, so we need to get out of the place to find our peace. For me, as I mentioned earlier, whenever I find myself overwhelmed by the challenges and frustrations of life, I seek refuge in Shimla’s famous Mall Road. This bustling street, lined with shops, cafes, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, has become my sanctuary. It is a place where many people are beginning their trip, and many others are ending their trip. We all share the same place at the same time with different loads of thoughts on our minds for a short time.
Observations
While on our lifelong journeys, we share time and space with other people for a longer duration. In the ebb and flow of the crowds, I observe a pattern. Many people are passing through; a few on whom I focused upon seem to pass by multiple times, but most of the people just passed once. Resembling our thoughts—many occur for once, and a few repeat a lot of times as we focus on them. So, the key is to stay focused on myself, sitting on the bench at that time and focusing on my breath. And in the long run, all I had to do is stay still and focus on my journey.
What I think at Mall Road Shimla?
For me, this place turns out to be a trigger to not look outside but inside. This realization brings me a sense of peace, as I understand that our paths may intersect for a brief period and nothing is permanent. We should embrace fate and permanence. These views put a check on overthinking, and the greenery refreshes the mind with positivity, making me capable of thinking differently to be in peace and solace. This is what Shimla offers me. I believe for others, the scenic beauty and serenity of this place, away from routine workplace, would work as wonders, and everyone surely would get the feeling of peace and solace.
Conclusion
Shimla, with its enchanting beauty and serene atmosphere, holds a special place in my heart. As a temporary resident, I have found solace, peace, and personal growth in this picturesque hill station. The Mall Road, with its vibrant energy and breathtaking views, has become my refuge in times of turmoil. It has taught me the importance of embracing fate, cherishing every moment, and connecting with my true self.
If you ever have the chance to visit Shimla, I encourage you to stay here for a week, to stroll along the Mall Road, visit the places mentioned in the post and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of this charming town. You might find your own moments of peace and inspiration amidst the mountains and the bustling streets.