The Oberoi Cecil History, Hidden Gems, Best Time to Visit and Photography
Located at
Chaura Maidan Rd, Nabha, Shimla
Himachal Pradesh
Description:
The Oberoi Cecil Shimla is housed in a beautifully restored colonial-style building, originally opened in 1884. The hotel”s architecture and interiors reflect the classic elegance of the British Raj era, with polished wooden floors, antique furnishings, and tasteful decor. Surrounded by lush pine forests and snow-capped mountains, the hotel offers stunning panoramic views of the Shivalik range. With its warm hospitality, luxury amenities, and serene ambiance, The Oberoi Cecil is a perfect place for relaxation and indulgence.
History:
The Oberoi Cecil has a rich history, dating back to 1884, when it was first established as a hill station retreat for the British colonial officers. It was renovated and transformed into a modern luxury hotel while retaining its heritage charm. Today, The Oberoi Cecil is a symbol of refined hospitality, combining traditional colonial architecture with contemporary comforts. Over the years, it has gained a reputation for offering impeccable service and an unforgettable stay in the Himalayan foothills.
Nearest Attractions:
- The Ridge: Located in the heart of Shimla, The Ridge is a large open space that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It is a great place to relax, take a stroll, or enjoy the local markets.
- Jakhoo Temple: This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman is located on Jakhoo Hill and offers breathtaking views of Shimla.
- Mall Road: The bustling main street of Shimla, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, is a must-visit for a taste of local life and to shop for souvenirs.
- Christ Church: Situated near The Ridge, this iconic church is one of the oldest in North India and offers beautiful Gothic architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Kufri: Known for its adventure activities and the Himalayan Nature Park, Kufri is located about 16 km from Shimla and is perfect for nature lovers.
- Shimla Heritage Walk: Take a guided walk through the city”s colonial buildings, churches, and heritage sites to discover the history of Shimla.
Things to Do:
- Relax in the Spa: The Oberoi Cecil has a luxurious spa offering rejuvenating treatments. It is a perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
- Explore Shimla”s Colonial Architecture: Take a heritage walk through Shimla to admire its colonial buildings, old churches, and picturesque surroundings.
- Visit Kufri for Adventure: Kufri is known for its adventure sports like skiing, tobogganing, and go-karting. You can also enjoy horse riding and explore the Himalayan Nature Park.
- Trekking: The area around Shimla offers some great trekking routes, including the Shimla-Kalka Heritage Railway trek.
- Shopping at Mall Road: Spend time shopping for local handicrafts, woollen clothes, and souvenirs in Shimla”ss bustling Mall Road.
- Tea Tasting: Shimla is known for its tea gardens. You can visit a local tea estate and taste the region”s finest tea.
Adventures:
- Skiing in Kufri: During winter months, Kufri is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding.
- Trekking and Nature Walks: Explore the beautiful trails and forests around Shimla for a nature-filled adventure. Popular treks include the Shimla Ridge Walk, Tara Devi Temple Trek, and the Jakhoo Hill Trek.
- Mountain Biking: Shimla offers various mountain biking routes for adventure enthusiasts to enjoy scenic views while riding through challenging terrains.
- Golf: The Naldehra Golf Course, located around 22 km from Shimla, is a great spot for a round of golf amidst the lush greenery.
Budget:
- Luxury Category: The Oberoi Cecil is a luxury hotel, with room rates typically starting from INR 12,000 to INR 25,000 per night depending on the season and room category.
- Off-Peak Rates: During off-peak seasons (April to June and September to November), you may find more affordable rates for stays, but the hotel tends to be quite busy during peak tourist seasons (December to March) and long weekends.
Hidden Gem:
- The Oberoi Cecil”s Private Garden: The hotel has a beautiful private garden that is often overlooked by guests. It offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and photographers.
- Chail: Located about 45 minutes from Shimla, Chail is a quiet hill station that offers a serene environment and is less crowded than Shimla.
Photography:
- Panoramic Views: The Oberoi Cecil offers some of the best views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, perfect for landscape photography.
- Colonial Architecture: The heritage building and interiors of The Oberoi Cecil are perfect for architectural photography.
- Wildlife: Shimla and its surroundings offer excellent opportunities for wildlife photography, especially around Kufri and the Himalayan Nature Park.
Food:
- Vegetarian: The Oberoi Cecil offers an extensive range of vegetarian options, including dishes from Indian, continental, and Asian cuisines. Some favorites include Paneer Tikka, Dal Makhani, and vegetable curries.
- Non-Vegetarian: The resort serves a selection of delicacies such as Butter Chicken, Rogan Josh, and grilled meats. Local specialties like Himachali style chicken and mutton are also available.
- Vegan: Vegan guests can enjoy a variety of plant-based dishes, including vegetable curries, salads, and soups made with fresh local produce.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti Airport), about 22 km from the hotel. It offers limited flights, mainly from Delhi. Alternatively, Chandigarh International Airport is about 120 km away and has more frequent flights.
- By Train: The Shimla Railway Station is about 3 km from the hotel and is well-connected to Kalka, which connects to major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. The famous Toy Train ride from Kalka to Shimla is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- By Road: Shimla is well-connected by road. It is around 340 km from Delhi and can be reached by bus, taxi, or private car. The drive is scenic and takes approximately 7-8 hours from Delhi.
ATM and Medical:
- ATM: There are several ATMs located in Shimla, including near the Mall Road (about 3 km from the hotel).
- Medical: The nearest hospital is Indira Gandhi Medical College in Shimla, which is about 5 km from The Oberoi Cecil. The hotel also provides basic medical facilities and can arrange for emergency services if needed.
Parking:
- The Oberoi Cecil offers ample parking space for guests traveling by private vehicles. The parking is secure and easily accessible from the hotel entrance.
Conclusion:
The Oberoi Cecil is a perfect destination for those seeking luxury, heritage, and breathtaking views in Shimla. With its colonial charm, state-of-the-art amenities, and proximity to popular attractions, the resort offers an unforgettable experience for couples, families, and solo travelers alike. Whether you are looking to relax in the serene environment or indulge in adventurous activities, The Oberoi Cecil provides the perfect base for exploring the beauty of Himachal Pradesh.
|