1. Introduction
Tucked away in the arms of the Himalayas, Shimla has long been celebrated for its colonial charm, sweeping mountain views, and pine-scented air. But this time, my trip wasn’t just a getaway from the city — it was an adventure with my four-legged best friend by my side.
Traveling with a pet can feel overwhelming, especially in the hills, but Shimla turned out to be one of the most welcoming destinations for us both. In this blog, I’ll take you through our journey — from planning and packing to discovering pet-friendly corners of the city — and share some tips to make your own pet-powered adventure a breeze.
2. Planning the Trip
Why Shimla?
I wanted a place that offered nature, calm vibes, and, most importantly, open space for my pet to explore. Shimla, with its cool climate and walkable streets, fit the bill perfectly.
Pet Travel Prep
Packing for two wasn’t too different — except my dog’s bag was better organized than mine. Here’s what I packed:
- Leash and harness
- Pet food and treats
- Portable water bowl
- Favorite toy (lifesaver!)
- Pet-friendly wet wipes
- Blanket and a small towel
- Medical records and basic meds
How We Got There
We traveled by car to give my pet some comfort and flexibility. I kept breaks every 2-3 hours so we both could stretch and hydrate. If you’re traveling by train or bus, check in advance — not all public transport options allow pets.
3. First Impressions
Rolling into Shimla, the crisp mountain air hit us like a breath of fresh life. My dog immediately perked up, sniffing the cool breeze and wagging with excitement. The town was buzzing with life, yet surprisingly calm — perfect for curious paws.
4. Where We Stayed: Pet-Friendly Accommodations
We stayed at a charming homestay just a few kilometers from Mall Road. Not only did they welcome my pet with open arms, but they had a little garden patch where he could roam safely. The owners even surprised us with a dog treat on arrival.
Why we loved it:
- Open outdoor space
- No extra pet fees
- Warm and pet-friendly staff
- Close to nature trails
5. Exploring Shimla With a Pet
Shimla has more to offer than just toy train nostalgia. Here are the spots we loved:
The Ridge & Mall Road
Early mornings were perfect here. With fewer people around, it was easy to walk peacefully without distractions. Many locals smiled or stopped to pet my dog — he loved the attention.
Chadwick Falls
This slightly offbeat trail was a gem. Shaded, quiet, and surrounded by tall trees, it was ideal for a short hike with my dog. Just make sure to carry enough water and be cautious of slippery paths.
Café Culture
A few cafés near Lakkar Bazaar and Sanjauli had outdoor seating and didn’t mind a pup lounging under the table. One even had a “paw menu” — talk about five-star service!
6. Challenges Along the Way
Of course, no trip is without hiccups. A few things we had to manage:
- Restricted Areas: Some public gardens and buildings don’t allow pets.
- Local Street Dogs: Friendly for the most part, but my dog got a little too curious a couple of times.
- Food Options: Carry your pet’s usual food; local availability is limited.
7. Local Pet Culture & Encounters
I was happily surprised to see how pet-friendly the locals were. Shopkeepers would offer water, and a few even had pets of their own. One of my favorite memories? Watching my dog befriend a fluffy mountain dog near Jakhu Temple — they trotted along like old pals.
8. Must-Know Tips for Pet Parents Visiting Shimla
- Best time to visit: March–June or September–November.
- Avoid crowded weekends and holidays — gives your pet more freedom.
- Always keep a leash handy — some places can get crowded fast.
- Pack light, but smart — medical essentials are a must.
- Carry a copy of your pet’s vaccination records — just in case.
9. Reflections: Why Traveling With a Pet is Worth It
There’s something so pure about seeing your pet experience new places — ears perked, tail wagging, eyes wide with wonder. Traveling with my dog made me slow down, take more walks, talk to more strangers, and truly soak in every moment.
It’s not just about ticking off places on a map — it’s about making memories, pawprint by pawprint.
10. Conclusion
Shimla proved that traveling with a pet doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right planning and a bit of flexibility, it can become the most rewarding journey of all. If you’re on the fence about taking your furry companion on your next trip — do it. You’ll see the world through a whole new lens.
Have you traveled to the hills with your pet? I’d love to hear your stories — drop them in the comments or message me on Instagram @thetravelingtail 🐾