7 Offbeat Places around Shimla

Places around Shimla for a Picture-Perfect Vacation

Bollywood’s favorite destination and Indian tourist’s weekend ‘getaway’ Shimla is often referred to as ‘The Queen of Hills’. There are still many hidden treasures that remain overshadowed under this queen of hills. Take a break from this overcrowded hill station and roam around the off-center treasures of Himachal Pradesh. The Golden Triangle of Himachal Pradesh consists of Shimla, along with Chail and Kufri. Despite being situated close to Shimla, these offbeat places are free from the crowds that throng Shimla and allow tourists to enjoy the pleasing beauty and essence of the place in peace of mind. Here are some glimpses of the underrated but stunning places around Shimla that will leave you spellbound.

1. Narkanda

Narkanda, the ‘Gateway to apple country’ is one of the tourist spots in Shimla that doesn’t get the recognition it should. Narkanda is the quintessential snow destination of Himachal Pradesh which offers a mesmerizing sight of snow-capped mountains, surrounded by apple and peach orchards. It is famous for its crimson red apple plantation, skiing, Strokes farm, and winter sports facilities. Besides these, sunrise from Hatu Peak, Mahamaya temple of Kacheri, and lush pastures of historic Jau Baug are the best attractions of Narkanda.

2. Kufri

Kufri is the adventure seekers’ ultimate paradise. It is the starting point of most of the Manali and Shimla treks.  It is known for Kufri fun world, skiing, and horse riding to the Mahasu Peak. Kufri attracts tourists mostly couples due to its proximity to Shimla and relatively higher altitude which makes it a snowy place all through the year. Named Himachal Pradesh’s winter sports capital, it hosts the annual winter sports festival in February. Whether it’s tobogganing, skiing, or go-karting, Kufri ensures a fever pitch that you will cherish for a long time.

3. Rohru

If you find Shimla is overrated then go for the ‘Heart of Shimla’, Rohru. Rohru is a small picturesque village situated on the banks of Pabbar River and a part of Pabbar Valley. It is an ideal tourist spot for enthusiastic visitors as rare Trouts can be found in the crystal clear water of the river. Chander Nahan Lake, Pabbar Valley, Sikhru Devta Temple are the best places to visit in Rohru.

4. Solan

5. Chail

Tourists love Chali for its greenery, peace, and pleasant weather just like Shimla, only less crowded. Besides summer, the awe-inspiring beauty of this hill station is worth admiring during monsoon season. Magnificent snow-clad Shivalik peaks, attractive orchards, and rustic pine-deodar valleys cast a spell on everyone. The hill station is known for Chail Palace, Chail Cricket Ground, Chail Military School, and Kali ka Tibba, a popular shrine.  Chail Wildlife Sanctuary is the prime spot for wildlife photographers and nature lovers to spot a variety of flora-fauna and animals including Himalayan black deer, langur, sambar, goral, wild boar, etc.

6. Tattapani

To enjoy the Hot water sulfur spring, winters are considered the best time to visit Tattapani. Though some visit this tiny hilly village for religious reasons, where Hindu devotees take a holy bath to wash off their sin. Shiva caves is another place to visit here.

7. Mashobra

Mashobra, ‘The Quieter Shimla’ is mostly known for Reserve Forest Sanctuary, Craignano, and Wildflower Hall Hotel. The beautiful lush green valley is tucked away at a height of 7700 feet, confirming minimal human obstruction in the course of nature. With this unseen scenic beauty of the offbeat places around Shimla be ready to fall in love with the hill station even more!