Shimla was the summer capital of India under British rrule. Currently, it is capital of Himachal Pradesh, with its population around 1.6 lacs .Shimla has seen many historical events such as the famous Shimla Pact between India & Pakistan which was signed Shimla “queen of hills”. The name Shimla was derived from 'Shyamalaya' meaning blue house said to be the name of house built of blue slate by a faqir on Jakhu. According to one version Shimla takes it name from 'Shamla' meaning a blue female another name for Goddess Kali. Shimla remained unnoticed during the Gurkha War; the place is also famous for its natural beauty, architectural buildings, wooden crafts and apples.The town of Shimla is built over several hills and connecting ridges.Shimla is well known for its Pine forests and apple orchards, crisp, clean air and breathtaking views and massive forest - The district of Shimla has amazingly beautiful forests of firs, pines, oaks and rhododendron. that's Shimla in a nutshell. Sprawled over 12 kms on a crescent shaped ridge, Shimla is the largest hill station and erstwhile summer capital of the British in India. Descending in layers from the top of the ridge, at 2,213 meters, Shimla straddles several hills, including the Jakhu, Prospect Hill, Observatory Hill, Elysium Hill and Summer Hill.The beautiful meadows with hyacinth, celandine, asphodel, climb gently up to the deodar forests and further up to rocky and snowy peaks of the Himalayas. budget hotels in Shimla, including government lodges, many star class hotels and as well as private guesthouses. If you are looking for luxury is what you desire, three star hotels of Shimla, like Toshali Royal View Hotel, Shimla , Surya Hotel, Shimla and Brightland Hotel, Shimla. Shimla, will be the hot pick for you.co.in case, your budget is quite low so you can choose economy hotels or budget hotels like Hotel Chaman Palace , Grand hotel and Diplomat Hotel, Shimla