Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Shimla is surrounded by stunning hill stations, adventure spots, and cultural sites that make for perfect day trips and weekend getaways. Here are some of the best nearby destinations to explore:

1. Kufri (16 km from Shimla) – The Snow Lover’s Paradise

 Why Visit?

• Best for skiing, snowboarding, and horse riding (in winter).
• Home to Kufri Fun World, an amusement park with adventure rides.
• Visit the Himalayan Nature Park, home to snow leopards and Himalayan black bears.

 Travel Time: 45 minutes from Shimla.

2. Chail (45 km from Shimla) – The Royal Retreat

 Why Visit?

• Visit the Chail Palace, a grand heritage hotel built by the Maharaja of Patiala.
• Enjoy the world’s highest cricket ground (2,444 meters above sea level).
• Explore Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, home to Himalayan wildlife.

 Travel Time: 2 hours from Shimla.

3. Narkanda (60 km from Shimla) – The Winter Wonderland

 Why Visit?

• One of the best skiing destinations in Himachal Pradesh.
• Visit Hatu Peak (3,400 meters) for stunning Himalayan views.
• Apple orchards and peaceful surroundings.

 Travel Time: 2 hours from Shimla.

4. Mashobra (13 km from Shimla) – The Quiet Escape

 Why Visit?

• Offbeat and less crowded than Shimla.
• Great for nature walks, camping, and paragliding.
• Explore Reserve Forest Sanctuary, ideal for wildlife lovers.

 Travel Time: 45 minutes from Shimla.

5. Tattapani (50 km from Shimla) – The Hot Spring Destination

 Why Visit?

• Famous for natural hot water springs with medicinal properties.
• Best place for river rafting on the Sutlej River.
• Adventure activities like camping and trekking.

 Travel Time: 2 hours from Shimla.

6. Fagu (20 km from Shimla) – A Serene Village

 Why Visit?

• A peaceful and scenic hill station surrounded by apple orchards.
• Perfect for photography, trekking, and nature walks.
• Visit Banthia Devta Temple, an ancient wooden temple.

 Travel Time: 1 hour from Shimla.

7. Solan (45 km from Shimla) – The Mushroom City of India

 Why Visit?

• Known as the Mushroom Capital of India.
• Visit Shoolini Mata Temple and Jatoli Shiv Temple.
• Explore Mohan Meakin Brewery, one of India’s oldest breweries.

 Travel Time: 1.5 hours from Shimla.

8. Kasauli (70 km from Shimla) – The Colonial Gem

 Why Visit?

• A quaint British-era hill station with scenic views.
• Visit Monkey Point, offering panoramic views of the plains.
• Enjoy Gilbert Trail, a peaceful nature walk.

 Travel Time: 2.5 hours from Shimla.

9. Barog (55 km from Shimla) – A Hidden Gem

 Why Visit?

• A small and peaceful hill town, ideal for a quiet getaway.
• Famous for the Barog Tunnel (Tunnel No. 33) on the Kalka-Shimla Railway.
• Perfect for picnics and nature lovers.

 Travel Time: 1.5 hours from Shimla.

10. Jalori Pass (100 km from Shimla) – A Trekker’s Paradise

 Why Visit?

• A stunning mountain pass at 3,120 meters, perfect for adventure seekers.
• Best for trekking to Serolsar Lake and Raghupur Fort.
• Offers breathtaking views of the Great Himalayan Range.

 Travel Time: 4 hours from Shimla.

Best Day Trips Based on Interest

• For Snow & Skiing: Kufri, Narkanda
• For Adventure: Tattapani (rafting), Jalori Pass (trekking), Mashobra (paragliding)
• For Heritage & History: Chail, Kasauli, Solan
• For Peace & Nature: Fagu, Barog, Mashobra

How to Travel to These Destinations?

• By Car/Taxi: Best for flexibility and comfort.
• By Bus: Regular buses from Shimla ISBT to Kufri, Chail, Narkanda, and Solan.
• By Train: The Kalka-Shimla Toy Train stops at Solan, Kasauli, and Barog.

Shimla is a perfect base for exploring nearby gems, whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or heritage experiences!