Shimla is a 18 sq km mountainous region lying at an altitude of 2,213 meters in the state of Himachal Pradesh. The Shivalik ranges are to the far south, the Dhauladhar and the Pir Panjal ranges cut through it; the Himalayas fall to the north east of Shimla. Sub-tropical forests, maize fields and orchards give way to pine, cedar and snow as you move to the higher slopes. Cars and taxis are not allowed on the upper slopes. They stop at Cart Road, which is the main thoroughfare in Shimla. Buses and taxis stop here. The Mall runs east-west and ends at Scandal Point. The Ridge Road joins Scandal Point to Christ Church. The central shopping area of the Mall has a promenade packed with clubs, restaurants and bars. From the top of Scandal Point you can get good views of the town and Christ Church.
