Annandale

Plan Your Perfect Picnic at Annandale Ground in Shimla and a Brief History of It

Annandale Ground in Shimla is a beautiful and picturesque location which makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing picnic while you are visiting Shimla. The lush greenery, sprawling meadows, and breathtaking will enable you to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re out for a vacation with your romantic or an entire family, picnics are always a great way to spend quality time with your romantic partner, family, or even friends.

We want you to have the most epic day (picnic to be specific) exploring Shimla, especially Annandale Ground. Before we get into the tips, let us share a brief historical background.

Annadale Ground Through the History

As beautiful as it is, Annandale Ground in Shimla has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the British colonial era. It wasn’t always as stunning. In fact, you will be surprised to know that it was a marshy and swampy area that was drained and developed by the British in the 19th century. The ground itself was named after Captain Charles Pratt Kennedy Annandale who served as the commander of the Bengal Engineers during the period of the British Raj.

Annadale Ground served as a racecourse during the colonial era and was primarily a spot for sports and recreational activities by the elite. It was also used by the army for military training and served as a parade ground for the British. The ground was redeveloped and turned into a gold course, cricket pitch, and polo ground. It also served as a venue for several important events during the colonial era.

In 1911, the ground was the site of the Delhi Durbar, a coronation ceremony for King George V and Queen Mary. The event was attended by a whopping 250,000 people and is still regarded as a significant event in the history of British India. Post-independence, it served as a training ground for the Indian army and was used as a spot for various sports activities. Today, Annandale Ground is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Shimla and is regarded as a hub for sports and recreational activities. It is also used for cultural events and concerts every now and then.

Best Tips to Have the Most Epic Picnic Ever

I won’t bore you with my ramble anymore. Let’s get straight to the tips to have the most epic picnic ever:

Select the Right Spot

First things first, you need to select the right spot. Annandale Ground has a vast area that can easily accommodate a large chunk of people. However, picnics and crowds don’t seem to go well together. So select a spot that doesn’t have a lot of people. Make sure you choose a place that offers shade especially if you are visiting during peak summer months. You can either go for a spot with a lot of trees or choose a place that is close to the edge of the ground (for the most epic mountain views).

Pack the Right Essentials

Perfect picnic calls for attention to little details. Make sure you have everything with you. We recommend having a blanket, picnic basket, cooler, utensils, sunscreen, insect repellent, and enough drinking water. We also recommend packing a first aid kit for any injuries or emergencies. After all, it is always better to be safe than sorry.

Food and Drinks

We all know what the best part about a picnic is: food and drinks. Make sure to carry easy-to-pack and eat foods. Some great options are sandwiches, fruits, salads, and finger snacks. Do not pack anything that has the potential to spoil quickly. Carry along plenty of water bottles and fruit juices with you. Plus a little chae never hurt anyone. Make sure it is packed in a thermos though.

Entertainment

While the scenery at Annandale Ground is entertaining enough, it doesn’t hurt to pack some fun games or activities to keep everyone entertained. Board games, frisbees, soccer balls, or even a kite are all great choices. All these games are an amazing opportunity to create bonding moments with your picnic companions.

Leave No Trace

Once you are done having an epic day at Annandale Background, it is important to clean up the area. Always bring garbage bags with you, dispose of all the trash properly, and ensure to take all your belongings with you. It is our ethical responsibility to keep everything clean.

Timing is Everything

How much fun you will have during the picnic vastly depends on the time you choose. We recommend coming in the morning or late afternoon. Generally, the weather is quite pleasant during these times. Stay clear of the picnic plan if you expect it is going to rain.

Plan for the Unexpected

As always, plan for the unexpected. Ensure you have a backup plan in case of rain or any other unforeseen circumstance. Also, be prepared to change locations or even cancel the picnic if the weather turns out to be unfavorable. If you are on a long trip to Shimla, make sure to check the weather forecast in advance.

All in all, Annandale Ground in Shimla is an excellent destination for a relaxing and fun-filled picnic. With its breathtaking views, a vast expanse of greenery, and perfect picnic spots, it’s an ideal location to spend quality time with your loved ones. Remember to plan well, pack the essentials, and leave no trace. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a fun day out with friends, Annandale Ground is sure to create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.