Activities around Shimla include leisurely walks in the mountains or to heritage sites, exhilarating treks in nature reserves, visits to ancient monasteries or even a round of golf. Some of the attractions include trips to the local markets, hikes and picnics in the surrounding mountains, day trips to scenic spots and a fun ride in the heritage toy train.

Indoor activities :
Spa
The hotel has recently opened a new Spa with state-of-the-art facilities, offering rejuvenating massages and relaxation treatments for guests. There is also a magnificent heated indoor swimming pool with views of the mountains and whirlpool baths.

Activity Centre
The Oberoi Cecil has an Activity Centre that appeals to all age groups. For youngsters, the Centre provides multimedia equipment by Sega, a computer with CD-ROM, a VCR, a dolls' house and board games. For adults there is a billiard room, bridge tables and facilities for chess and backgammon. An extensive library is also on the premises.

Adventure and Sports :
Activity and adventure are an intrinsic part of life in Shimla. You can go trekking, horse riding, tee off from the world's highest golf course, or even experience the thrills of white water rafting. Ski down snowy slopes or enjoy breathtaking views of the valley and mountains while paragliding.

Riding Trails :
A number of historical sites in and around Shimla are accessible on horseback. The hotel can arrange bookings for horses on request. Here are a few destinations:

» The Viceregal Lodge - One to three hours
» The Glen - Three to six hours
» Annandale - Three to six hours
» Prospect Hill : Two to three hours

Other riding trails from Shimla are on the Mashobra-Bekhalty road, from Wildflower Hall to Kufri and from Mashobra to Sipur.

Trekking
Seasoned and new trekkers who like to go on medium altitude treks in the western Himalayas, will have a hard time finding a better base for their travels than Shimla. Some of the more popular single day treks from Shimla are to Chail, Tattapani or Kalka. Needless to say, our personnel will help you plan your trek and make all the arrangements. After an invigorating trek, the luxurious comforts of The Oberoi Cecil help you rejuvenate.

Golf In Naldhera
Set amid Cedar forests, this is the highest golf course in the world. During the golf season that extends from April to October, enthusiasts gather at Naldhera, to match their skills on this 68 course with 9 holes, and yardage that increases in the repeat 9.

In Annandale
Just 3 kilometers from The Oberoi Cecil, the glade of Annandale, surrounded by rich woods of cedar, invites you to a game of golf on its 9-hole course.

Ice Skating
In the early part of the century, when Colonel Blessington, found water freezing on his tennis courts in the winter, he created a small ice-skating rink of his own. Today, this historic rink has gone on to become the Shimla Ice Skating Club, which has the largest open-air rink with natural ice in this part of the world.

Nature Trails :
For decades, travellers from around the world have come to Shimla to enjoy its natural beauty and salubrious climate. Deep valleys and thickly forested hills offer spectacular views. The sweet smell of pine scented air and dappled sunlight are some of the many pleasures this hill station offers.

Annandale
Annandale is Shimla's largest valley and is used as the local helipad. Just two kilometers from The Oberoi Cecil, this walk leads to a secluded and beautiful temple surrounded by cedar woods and a nine-hole golf course. The hotel can also organize a game of golf on request.

The Glen
This thickly wooded ravine with moss-laden rocks and gurgling streams is a five-kilometre walk away from the city.

Jakhu Temple
45 minutes away from The Mall, atop Jakhu Hill is the Jakhu Temple dedicated to Hanuman, the mythological monkey-god. Towering over Shimla, the hilltop offers spectacular views.

Taradevi
6 kilometres from the hotel is the Taradevi Temple with surrounding woods of cedar, Himalayan oak and flowering rhododendron, offering a charming locale for leisurely walks.

Chadwick Falls
Perfect during the monsoons, a leisurely walk through the shady Summer Hill will lead you to these magnificent falls.

Kamana Devi
A steep drive from Shimla, the Kamana Devi Temple is a sanctuary for believers who tie little threads to a bush to have their prayers answered. The promise of granted wishes lures hundreds of believers.