While exploring the lively main square of Shimla in Himachal Pradesh, I witnessed a moment of perfect street wildlife serendipity. A Rhesus Macaque had snatched an ice cream from an unsuspecting tourist and was calmly enjoying it on a bench, entirely unfazed by the surrounding crowds.
I kept a respectful distance — these monkeys can be quite bold — but managed to capture a few decisive frames of the scene as the Macaque sat proudly, cone in hand, relishing its prize. It was a brief yet captivating encounter, one that speaks to the wild charm and unpredictability of street life in India.
A Rhesus Macaque Monkey eating a stolen ice cream in Shimla, India
One of the alternate Monkey images from this moment licensed today via Getty Images — a small but satisfying sale that reminds me of the value in staying observant and camera-ready at all times, especially in places as vibrant and chaotic as India.
Image Details and Camera Specs:
📍 Shimla Main Square, Himachal Pradesh, India
📷 Canon 5D Mark IV | 50mm f/1.4 lens
ƒ/5.0 | 1/500 sec | ISO 250
This scene is part of a broader series I’ve been developing, documenting the relationship between urban wildlife and public spaces throughout India. From Cows lounging on a ghat in Udaipur, to monkeys enjoying sunset at the Taj Mahal, it’s a celebration of the surreal, often humorous intersections of nature and the everyday. Take a look at the following slideshow for some more Maque Monkey Madness I captured on my trip to Shimla:
Shimla, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, is a town that offers more than just breathtaking views and colonial charm. The bustling streets are a blend of old-world architecture and the vibrant energy of its locals, making it a must-visit for any traveller. Known as the 'Queen of Hills,' Shimla’s cool, crisp air and lush green surroundings make it a perfect retreat from the heat of India’s plains. But it's not just the views and the cool weather that make Shimla a fascinating destination; the wildlife here adds a layer of intrigue and sometimes, a bit of chaos.
One of the most memorable moments of my visit to Shimla was catching that Rhesus Macaque in action. This cheeky Monkey had swiped an ice cream cone from a tourist and was leisurely devouring it on a nearby bench, completely unfazed by the surrounding crowd. It’s moments like these that make Shimla’s streets feel alive with a mix of humor and unpredictability, with the larger-than-life Monkeys adding a sense of wildness to the otherwise quaint setting. Whether it’s watching these Monkeys swagger across rooftops or seeing them interact with the tourists and locals, Shimla’s Monkeys — particularly the big, tough ones — are part of the town's charm, always keeping you on your toes.
If you ever find yourself in Shimla, be ready for encounters with both the urban landscape and the playful (and sometimes mischievous) Macaques. Whether you’re sipping tea on the Mall Road or exploring the more remote parts of the hill station, Shimla offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and a dash of wildness — the perfect setting for capturing moments that are both beautiful and unexpected.
Check out more of my Indian Travel Photography:
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