Why Every Hill Station has a Mall Road?

Mall Roads are an important feature in almost every hill station. They are usually located in the heart of the town, attracting both tourists and locals. These roads offer a combination of shopping, dining and leisure, making them popular for strolls and socializing. The scenic beauty along these roads adds to their charm, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the surroundings while shopping or relaxing in the cool climate of the hill station.

Why Every Hill Station has Mall Road?

Every hill station in India has a Mall Road because the British created them during colonial times as social hubs. Originally designed for married officers, these roads offered a space for relaxation and entertainment. Over time, they became central to hill stations, with shops, restaurants, and important buildings like post offices and hospitals. The wide boulevards also encouraged leisurely walks, making Mall Roads a key part of the hill station experience.

Origin of Mall Roads

Mall Roads were originally developed during British rule in India. They were designed as military residential areas, specifically to separate married officers from bachelors. The name “Mall” is said to stand for “Married Accommodation and Living Line Road.” Over time, these roads became social hubs, serving as spaces for relaxation and social activities.

Entertainment Hub

The British  also built shops, restaurants and other entertainment venues along Mall Roads. These spots provided a place for the British officers to relax, enjoy meals and shop. Today, Mall Roads continue to be lively areas with various shops, cafes and other recreational spaces that attract both locals and tourists.

Mall Road, A Place for Social Activities

The Mall Road was designed as a place for social activities. During the colonial era, it was used for social calls, teas, strolls, picnics, dinners, balls, races and amateur theatricals. These social gatherings helped people meet and bond in a relaxed environment. The tradition continues today, with Mall Roads often being the center of social life in hill stations.

Wide Boulevards for Leisurely Walks

The British designed hill stations with wide roads and beautiful gardens to encourage leisurely walks. The Mall Road’s wide space allows people to stroll while enjoying the natural beauty of the area. The scenic views, combined with the well-planned road, make it a perfect spot for tourists to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Popular Mall Roads in India

Many popular hill stations in India have their own Mall Roads. Some of the famous ones include:

• MG Road in Gangtok, Sikkim
• Mall Road in Shimla
• Mall Road in Manali
• Mall Road in Dehradun

These Mall Roads continue to be important in the daily life of hill stations and are often the first places tourists visit when they arrive.