The Enchanting Heights of Summer Hill, Shimla

• Helloनमस्ते
  [namaste]
• Goodbyeअलविदा
  [alvida]
• Yesहाँ
  [haan]
• Noनहीं
  [nahin]
• Please/You're welcomeकृपया
  [krupaya]
• Thank youधन्यवाद
  [dhanyavad]
• Excuse me/Sorryमाफ़ कीजिये
  [maaf kijiye]
• How are you?आप कैसे हैं?
  [aap kaise hain?]
• Fine. And you?ठीक हूँ। आप?
  [thik hoon. aap?]
• Do you speak English?क्या आप अंग्रेज़ी बोल सकते हैं?
  [kya aap angrezi bol sakte hain?]
• I don't understandमुझे समझ नहीं आया
  [mujhe samajh nahi aaya]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseकृपया मेन्यू दिखाइए
  [krupaya menu dikhaiye]
• I don't eat meatमैं मांस नहीं खाता/खाती
  [main maans nahi khaata/khaati]
• Cheers!चियर्स!
  [cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseकृपया मैं भुगतान करना चाहूं
  [krupaya main bhugtan karna chahoon]

• Help!मदद!
  [madad!]
• Go away!दूर हो जाओ!
  [door ho jao!]
• Call the Police!पुलिस को बुलाओ!
  [police ko bulao!]
• Call a doctor!डॉक्टर को बुलाओ!
  [doctor ko bulao!]
• I'm lostमैं खो गया/गई हूँ
  [main kho gaya/gayi hoon]
• I'm illमुझे बीमारी है
  [mujhe bimari hai]

• I'd like to buy...मैं ... ख़रीदना चाहूँ
  [main ... khareedna chahoon]
• I'm just lookingमैं सिर्फ देख रहा/रही हूँ
  [main sirf dekh raha/rahi hoon]
• How much is it?इसकी कीमत क्या है?
  [iski keemat kya hai?]
• That's too expensiveयह बहुत महंगा है
  [yah bahut mahanga hai]
• Can you lower the price?क्या आप कीमत कम कर सकते हैं?
  [kya aap keemat kam kar sakte hain?]

• What time is it?अब कितने बजे हैं?
  [ab kitne baje hain?]
• It's one o'clockएक बजे हैं
  [ek baje hain]
• Half past (10)दस बजे तक
  [das baje tak]
• Morningसुबह
  [subah]
• Afternoonदोपहर
  [dopahar]
• Eveningशाम
  [shaam]
• Yesterdayकल
  [kal]
• Todayआज
  [aaj]
• Tomorrowकल
  [kal]
• 1एक
  [ek]
• 2दो
  [do]
• 3तीन
  [teen]
• 4चार
  [chaar]
• 5पाँच
  [paanch]
• 6छह
  [chhah]
• 7सात
  [saat]
• 8आठ
  [aath]
• 9नौ
  [nau]
• 10दस
  [das]

• Where's a/the...?... कहाँ है?
  [... kahan hai?]
• What's the address?पता क्या है?
  [pata kya hai?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?क्या आप मुझे दिखा सकते हैं? (नक्शे पर)
  [kya aap mujhe dikha sakte hain? (nakshay par)]
• When's the next (bus)?अगली (बस) कब है?
  [agli (bus) kab hai?]
• A ticket (to ....)एक टिकट (किस जगह के लिए)
  [ek ticket (kis jagah ke liye)]

Summer Hill, located about 2 kilometers from the main city of Shimla, was developed in the mid-19th century as one of the charming neighborhoods of the hill station. It was originally part of the estate of the British officer, Captain D. H. Lyall, who initiated its transformation into a residential area for colonial officials and expatriates seeking respite from the heat of the plains.

The area is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, with many buildings reflecting the Victorian and Gothic styles. Notable structures include the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, which was once the summer residence of the British Viceroys, and several charming bungalows that showcase the historical influence of British architecture in the region.

Summer Hill has long been a center for education and culture in Shimla. The establishment of institutions such as the Himachal Pradesh University underscores its academic significance. The neighborhood is also known for its vibrant local communities and cultural festivals, which highlight the rich traditions of the Himachali people.

During the British Raj, Summer Hill served as a crucial meeting point for the British elite. It was in this serene environment that many important decisions regarding the governance of the region were discussed. The area also witnessed social gatherings and events that were pivotal in shaping the colonial legacy in Shimla.

After India gained independence in 1947, Summer Hill continued to evolve, becoming a residential area for a diverse population. The neighborhood has embraced modernity while maintaining its historical charm, making it a unique blend of old and new, reflecting the broader changes in Shimla and Himachal Pradesh.

Summer Hill is easily accessible from various neighbourhoods in Shimla. From the Mall Road, you can take a local bus or auto-rickshaw to Summer Hill, which is about 3 km away. Alternatively, you can walk along the scenic walkways connecting to Summer Hill. The nearest major railway station is Shimla Railway Station, from where local taxis are available to reach Summer Hill.

Summer Hill is a walkable area, and many attractions can be explored on foot. For longer distances, local buses and shared auto-rickshaws are available, providing convenient access to the broader Shimla area. Renting a bicycle is also an option for those who wish to explore at their own pace. Keep in mind that the area is hilly, so be prepared for some uphill walks.

Summer Hill is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to exercise caution as in any place. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly on less populated streets. While there are no specific areas in Summer Hill known for high crime rates targeting tourists, petty theft can occur in crowded areas, so always keep an eye on your belongings.

In case of an emergency, dial 100 for police assistance or 102 for medical emergencies. Shimla has several hospitals and clinics, including Indira Gandhi Medical College. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies in Summer Hill can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, and always ask before taking photographs in temples or monasteries. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers; don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a polite 'Namaste'; don’t engage in overly casual behavior with strangers. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Himachali dishes and accept food from locals graciously; don’t waste food as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Summer Hill like a local, visit the quaint local markets for fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with residents, who are generally warm and welcoming. Explore the nearby Himachal Pradesh University campus, which offers beautiful views and a serene atmosphere. Don't miss out on the local tea shops that serve traditional Himachali chai; it’s a great way to mingle with locals.