Hotel Willow Banks - Boutique 4 Star Hotel On The Mall Road Shimla, Shimla
About the Hotel
Hotel Willow Banks is a boutique 4-star hotel located on the iconic Mall Road in Shimla, a city steeped in history and surrounded by the stunning Himalayan landscape. Originally established in 1871 and linked to the town’s architectural heritage, it offers a unique blend of modern comforts and traditional charm. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the Shimla valley while staying in rooms equipped with contemporary amenities. The hotel features two popular restaurants and an array of leisure facilities, making it an attractive destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Location
Hotel Willow Banks is situated on the main Mall Road, providing easy access to popular tourist attractions such as the Ridge, Jakhoo Temple, and Lakkar Bazaar. The hotel can be reached conveniently from the main parking areas via the Tourism Lift or a short walk. The travel desk at the hotel can assist guests with transport arrangements to and from Shimla’s railway station, bus stops, and nearby airports, ensuring hassle-free travel options.
Rooms
The hotel features spacious and elegantly designed rooms, each equipped with a king-size bed, wooden flooring, and a private balcony that offers spectacular views of the valley. Every room is furnished with modern amenities, including a mini-fridge, high-speed internet, tea and coffee making facilities, and a well-appointed bathroom with a bathtub. The property also offers deluxe and premium room categories, providing flexible options suitable for couples and families alike. All rooms come with services such as 24-hour in-room dining and daily housekeeping.
Eat & Drink
Dining at Hotel Willow Banks includes two in-house restaurants: Café Simla Times and Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar. Guests can savor a diverse range of cuisines, including Mughlai, Chinese, Italian, and local Himachali dishes. Café Simla Times is known for its outdoor seating and wood-fired pizzas, while Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar offers a fine dining experience with a mix of classic and contemporary presentations. The hotel also boasts the first rooftop SkyBar in Shimla, providing stunning views along with a selection of innovative cocktails.
Leisure & Business
The hotel offers a comprehensive range of leisure facilities including a full-service spa, fitness center, and beauty salon operated by Jawed Habib. Guests can unwind with various treatments inspired by Ayurveda and modern techniques at Akasa Spa. For recreational activities, visitors can engage in billiards, table tennis, and organized trekking trips. Business travelers will find suitable amenities for meetings and events in the spacious banquet hall, able to accommodate over 500 guests, making it ideal for conferences and social gatherings.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- Non-smoking rooms
- Free Wi-Fi in public areas
- Paid parking
- Safe deposit box
- 24-hour reception
- Express check-in/ -out
- No pets allowed
- 24-hour security
- Lift
- Barber shop
- Fire extinguishers
Sports & Fitness
- Fitness centre
- Billiard tables
- Table tennis
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
- Dryer
- Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Services
- Paid shuttle service
- Room service
- Car hire
- Laundry
- Dry cleaning
- Tours/Ticket assistance
Dining
- In-room breakfast
- Restaurant
- Bar/ Lounge area
Business
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Children
- Cots
- Board games
- Game room
Spa & Leisure
- Night club
- Spa & wellness centre
- Sauna
- Jacuzzi
- Massage
Room features
- Heating
- Sitting area
- Terrace
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
- Dryer
- Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Media
- Flat-screen TV
- AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
- Parquet floor
Location
Reviews and Ratings
The hotel had a lovely location right on Mall Road, near the Tourism lift, making it very convenient. The rooms were clean, airy, and offered a nice view across the town to the western hills. The service was warm and attentive, although a bit overpriced. The dining options were scrumptious, but could improve in offering gluten-free choices. Overall, a great value for money stay with a few minor drawbacks.
The hotel offers breathtaking valley views from premium rooms on the top floor, providing a wholesome experience in Shimla. The outside annexe location accessed by an outdoor lift delivers a unique stay. While the service has some unprofessional instances, the staff overall is helpful and courteous. The best part of the property is its excellent location near major attractions, offering convenience without the hustle of the main Mall area.
I had a wonderful stay at the hotel! The rooms were clean, spacious, and offered a stunning view across the town to the western hills, thanks to Mr Sanjay Sharma. The location was ideal, allowing me to step out straight onto the Mall Road. However, the descent down an inclined stone stairway could be a bit tricky. Service was exceptional, with warm and polite staff who ensured a relaxing experience. The dining options were limited but satisfactory. Overall, a great value for money.
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