Shimla, nestled in the Himalayan foothills, holds a rich history that extends to its culinary traditions. Influences on the cuisine of Shimla come from the mix of cultures, including British colonial, Punjabi, and Tibetan, alongside the indigenous Himachali practices. During the British Raj, Shimla was declared the summer capital, which led to the introduction of European food styles that blend with the local flavors to create unique fusion dishes. Traditional Himachali cuisine is characterized by the use of lentils, rice, meats, and yogurt, with a distinct flavor coming from the local herbs and spices used.