Shimla is one of the most visited hill station in Himachal Pradesh. Being a popular Himachal Tourism destination, the place is slowly loosing it’s old charm of serenity. The satisfaction of being in the lap of nature is being killed by the urban development. But, there are some beautiful hill stations around Shimla, which can be the road less travelled and be your next ideal weekend gateway. We present to you an ultimate list of hill stations near Shimla.
1. KUFRI
Located 13 kms from Shimla on National Highway 22. It is the highest point in the surrounding region. During summers, Kufri is like any other destination around Shimla where travellers seek some peace away from crowded Shimla. Kufri is also home to the Himalayan Wildlife zoo, which hosts rare varieties of antelopes, felines and snow leopards. During winters, the quite hill station turns into a popular ski track.
Kufri, Image Credits: prokerala.com
2. NARKANDA
A small town which is located 65 Kms from Shimla on National Highway 22. It is at an altitude of 8,800 feet above the sea level. The weather here remains pleasant during the summers and extremely cold during winters. The place is also famous for wide plantation of Apple orchids. Narkanda is also significant as it connects Shimla with Rampur.
Chail, Image credits : Travelhi5
3. CHAIL
The former summer capital of the princely state of Patiala, Chail is a beautiful hill station located 63 km from Shimla in the Shivalik region of Himachal Pradesh. Chail was founded in 1893 by Maharaja of Patiala who was banished from entering Shimla. Maharaja made sure that his new found love should have an exact resemblance of Shimla in every way. Majestic snow-capped Shivalik peaks, beautiful orchards and sylvan pine valleys cast a spell on everyone. Chail Palace, Chail Cricket ground and Chail Military School are one of the popular highlights of this hill station.
4. KASAULI
Kasauli is a cantonment and town, located in the district of Solan. Located 65 kms from Shimla and 77 Kms from Chandigarh, it lies at an altitude of 6,000 feet above the sea level. Kasauli Club is established by civilians and service personnels offers an amazing view of Chandigarh from Kasauli. Other popular destinations are Nahri temple, Kasauli brewery and Gurudwara Shri Guru Nanak Ji.
5. MASHOBRA
Situated in Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh, the hill station of Mashobra is known for its scenic locales, flora, fauna and pilgrimages. Mashobra’s claim to fame is the fact that it is one of the retreats of the President of India. It is visited by the President of India every year during which his main office shifts to the Presidents Retreat. The retreat consists of 16 rooms and it stands on a 300 acre forest compound. The President occupies it only for two weeks in a year during summer and is mostly used by the Government of India to house foreign VIPs visiting Shimla.
6. SOLAN
Solan derives its name from Goddess Shoolini Devi, the patron deity of the region. The hill station is visited by tourists who love solitude and peace. Known as the ‘Mushroom capital of India’, Solan is situated 50 km from Shimla. The hill station primarily serves as a gateway to other popular hill stations like Kasauli, Shimla and Chail. Solan is also called the ‘city of red gold’, because of the bulk production of tomatoes in the area.
7. NALDHERA
Nestled between the beautiful lofty ranges of the Himalayas, lies the Naldehra hill station. The most famous attraction of Naldehra hill station is the 18 – hole golf course that is considered to be the most challenging golf course. This is because it is situated at an altitude of 2044 meters! The golf course is one of the most gorgeous stretches of land in Naldehra.
So, if you are planning a trip this summer. Then you can visit to one of these hill stations and let us know about your experience.
Travel Tip : One can cover Solan- Shimla – Kufri – Narkanda in a single trip of 2-3 days. You can do your flight booking to Shimla here.
