Shimla is better known as "Queen of the Hills" for the travelers. Shimla derives its name from "Shyamala", the goddess Kali, whose temple existed in the dense forest that covered Jakhu Hill in the early 19th century. The English named is Simla.

During the winter Shimla city is known as "Long Moon Night". A gathering of dark clouds tells us of the approach of snow generally a slight fall first, followed by a heavier one when the snowflakes sweep down through the fine-needles bending long branches to the ground. The following morning sees the town as a fantastic fairyland of white beauty.