Shimla, known as the Queen of Hills, is one of the most popular travel destinations in India, attracting tourists for its colonial charm, scenic landscapes, and tranquil surroundings. While Shimla itself is a well-known hill station, there are numerous lesser-known gems nestled nearby that offer serenity, adventure, and breathtaking natural beauty. These hidden treasures, away from the usual tourist trails, provide the perfect escape for travelers looking to explore beyond Shimla. Whether you're interested in a family vacation, are part of Shimla Manali Tour Packages or are embarking on a romantic journey with our honeymoon tour packages these hidden gems near Shimla will add unique experiences to your trip.

Here’s a complete travel guide to some of the best offbeat destinations near Shimla for 2024.

1. Narkanda: A Skiing Paradise

Located about 60 kilometers from Shimla, Narkanda is a charming little town that is often overshadowed by its famous neighbors. Narkanda is perfect for snow lovers, especially if you’re traveling in the winter months. It offers serene natural beauty with vast apple orchards and thick forests of deodar trees.

Why Visit Narkanda?

• Skiing in Winter: Narkanda transforms into a skiing paradise during the winters. The slopes are perfect for both beginners and advanced skiers.
• Hatu Peak: One of the most famous trekking spots in the area, Hatu Peak is an adventurous trek that rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
• Tani Jubbar Lake: This serene lake, surrounded by pine trees, is an ideal spot for picnics and nature walks.

Best Time to Visit: November to February for skiing; March to June for trekking.

2. Chail: A Peaceful Retreat

Only 45 kilometers from Shimla, Chail is a peaceful and quiet retreat known for its untouched beauty. Once the summer capital of the Maharaja of Patiala, Chail still retains its royal charm and offers an ideal destination for those looking to escape the bustling crowds of Shimla.

Why Visit Chail?

• Chail Palace: The majestic Chail Palace, now a heritage hotel, is a must-visit for its grand architecture and beautiful gardens. You can even stay here for a luxurious experience.
• Chail Wildlife Sanctuary: A haven for nature lovers, this sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including leopards, wild boars, and sambar.
• Highest Cricket Ground: Chail is home to the highest cricket ground in the world, located at an altitude of 7,380 feet. It’s an interesting spot for cricket enthusiasts and history buffs.

Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to October.

3. Mashobra: A Tranquil Getaway

For travelers seeking tranquility, Mashobra is a hidden gem located just 13 kilometers from Shimla. It is perfect for a peaceful retreat amidst lush greenery and offers a great combination of adventure and relaxation.

Why Visit Mashobra?

• Camping and Trekking: Mashobra is known for its numerous nature trails that are perfect for trekking. The dense pine forests make it ideal for camping under the stars.
• Wildflower Hall: A luxurious retreat located in Mashobra, Wildflower Hall is perfect for honeymooners seeking privacy and breathtaking views. It offers spa services, private dining, and adventure activities like mountain biking.
• Craignano Nature Park: This beautiful park, full of Italian-style gardens, is a great place for picnics and peaceful walks.

Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November.

4. Kufri: A Haven for Adventure Lovers

Only 16 kilometers from Shimla, Kufri is another gem that’s often included in Shimla Manali Tour Packages. Kufri is best known for its ski slopes in winter and its scenic beauty throughout the year.

Why Visit Kufri?

• Adventure Activities: Kufri offers skiing, tobogganing, and snowboarding in the winter months. During the summer, you can try horse riding, yak rides, and go-karting.
• Kufri Fun World: This amusement park, located at the top of Mahasu Peak, boasts the highest go-kart track in the world and offers stunning views of the surrounding snow-covered hills.
• Himalayan Nature Park: Home to various species of flora and fauna, including the elusive snow leopard, this park is a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Best Time to Visit: December to February for snow activities; April to June for adventure sports.

5. Tattapani: A Relaxing Hot Spring

If you're looking for something truly offbeat, head to Tattapani, located about 50 kilometers from Shimla. This small town is famous for its natural hot water springs and the stunning views of the Sutlej River.

Why Visit Tattapani?

• Hot Water Springs: The hot springs are believed to have healing properties and are perfect for a relaxing soak after days of sightseeing.
• River Rafting: If you love water sports, the Sutlej River offers exciting rafting opportunities.
• Adventure Activities: Apart from river rafting, you can also enjoy mountain biking, rock climbing, and trekking in Tattapani.

Best Time to Visit: October to March.

6. Fagu: A Serene Hilltop Village

Just 22 kilometers from Shimla, Fagu is a quaint little village offering stunning views of terraced fields, apple orchards, and snow-capped peaks. This hidden gem is perfect for nature lovers and couples looking for a peaceful getaway.

Why Visit Fagu?

• Stunning Views: The village is set atop a hill, offering unobstructed views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.
• Apple Orchards: Fagu is known for its apple orchards, and a walk through these lush green fields is a delightful experience.
• Trekking and Nature Walks: There are several scenic trails around Fagu for trekking and hiking enthusiasts.

Best Time to Visit: March to October.

7. Kotgarh: The Apple Orchard Heaven

Located about 75 kilometers from Shimla, Kotgarh is a hidden gem best known for its apple orchards. Kotgarh is the perfect destination for those looking to explore Himachal’s rich agricultural heritage.

Why Visit Kotgarh?

• Apple Orchards: Kotgarh is often referred to as the ‘Apple Bowl of India,’ thanks to its vast apple plantations. You can visit the orchards, learn about apple farming, and even sample some fresh produce.
• Historical Importance: Kotgarh is also historically significant as it was one of the first places where Samuel Stokes, an American missionary, introduced apple farming in India.

Best Time to Visit: April to June for lush green scenery and September to October for apple harvests.

8. Naldehra: Golfing Amidst Nature

For golf enthusiasts, Naldehra, located about 25 kilometers from Shimla, is a hidden gem. This small hill station is famous for its lush golf course, which is one of the oldest and most scenic in India.

Why Visit Naldehra?

• Golfing: The 9-hole golf course is set amidst lush greenery and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Even if you’re not a golfer, the beauty of the place makes it worth a visit.
• Horse Riding: Horse riding through the dense cedar forests of Naldehra is a must-do activity.

Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November.

Ideal for Honeymooners

For couples who have booked honeymoon tour packages, these offbeat locations around Shimla offer the perfect combination of privacy, adventure, and romance. Whether it’s a serene walk through the apple orchards in Kotgarh, a relaxing stay in a luxury resort in Mashobra, or an exhilarating skiing session in Narkanda, these hidden gems ensure a memorable experience for honeymooners.

How to Plan Your Trip

Most of these destinations can be easily covered within a few hours' drive from Shimla, making them perfect for day trips or short stays. You can include them in your Shimla Manali tour packages or customize your own itinerary depending on your preferences.

• Travel: Shimla is well connected by road, rail, and air. Most of these hidden gems are accessible via road from Shimla.
• Accommodation: You can find a range of accommodations from luxury hotels to budget homestays near these destinations. For a romantic experience, we recommend booking a stay at a cozy homestay or luxury resort.

Conclusion

Shimla is much more than just a popular hill station. The hidden gems surrounding Shimla offer tranquil escapes, scenic beauty, and adventurous activities for those looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. Whether you're part of Shimla Manali tour packages or embarking on one of our honeymoon tour packages, these destinations will add a unique and memorable dimension to your vacation in 2024.