.jpeg)
From waterfalls to mountain valleys, every hill station in India has its unique charm, be it Shimla’s colonial heritage including the iconic toy train, Manali’s snow-capped mountains, Nainital's serene lakes or Darjeeling’s lush tea gardens. The one common factor that connects all these hill stations is their “Mall Roads”.
What Is A Mall Road?
‘Mall Roads’ often known as the ‘heart of hill stations’ are lanes constructed to allow visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty of the valley along with shopping and looking at the unique heritages of the place. It does not allow any vehicle to make the experience peaceful and memorable for all.
Mall Road’s Origin In India
The concept of Mall Road dates back to the British colonial period in the late 1800s. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, the British established hill stations like Shimla, Mussoorie, and Nainital as summer retreats to escape the tropical heat of the plains.
The Mall Road, a broad avenue, was designed for leisurely walks and social gatherings, mirroring the promenades back in Britain, specifically having markets, restaurants and entertainment so that the needs could be met properly.
The term 'Mall’ in Mall Road is believed to be derived from ‘The Mall’ in London. The ‘Mall’ was a fashionable promenade used for leisurely walks and various occasions. The British replicated this concept in India, creating similar promenades in hill stations for their colonial officers and families to socialise and relax.
Additionally, "Mall" stood for "Married Accommodation and Living Line," as it was designed to separate the living quarters of married British officers from those of the troops and messes.
Famous Mall Roads in India
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh: Shimla’s Mall Road is lined with impressive British colonial buildings and serves as a major hangout and shopping area.
Mussoorie, Uttarakhand: Known simply as "The Mall," this road offers an amazing view of the Doon Valley and is a popular spot for strolls.
Darjeeling, West Bengal: Chowrasta or the Mall Road in Darjeeling is known for its unique and iconic heritage shops. Its peaceful atmosphere, delicious food and iconic places gain the attention of several tourists.
Nainital, Uttarakhand: Nainital's Mall Road runs parallel to the Naini Lake, providing picturesque views and housing numerous shops and eateries.
Relevance Today
Mall Roads continue to be the heart of hill stations, attracting tourists to interact and learn about the natives of the place. The places along with scenic views allow it to blend the bustling marketing atmosphere with historical architecture. The unique quality of each Mall Road makes them an integral part of the charm of hill stations.
