The Ridge Shimla

Along the central ridgetop, this broad pedestrian esplanade diverges from The Mall at Scandal Point, guarded by a fancifully hatted policeman. Thronged with strolling locals and visitors, it rises to a triangular parade ground backed by Christ Church and dotted with statues. Indira Gandhi turns her back on the panorama to the north which, in clear weather, includes a jagged line of distant snowy peaks. Gaggles of domestic tourists delight in innocent pleasures:; strolling and taking selfies or get photographed sitting on horses brought in specially for the purpose.