Shimla’s beautiful mountain ranges, lush greenery, tranquil surroundings and the many activities is what attracts thousands of tourists every year. Without a doubt, Shimla is one of the most amazing tourist destinations in India, but did you know that there are a few hidden places to visit near Shimla that are equally captivating.
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Top Places To Visit Near Shimla To Escape The Crowd
Here’s a list of serene spots that are away from the hustle and bustle of Shimla. We highly recommend that you add a few of these places to your Shimla itinerary to add more fun to your vacation.
1. Chail
Chail is a great place for a day trip from Shimla because it only takes two hours to reach there from the Mall road. It is a tranquil hill community approximately 45 km from Shimla and is well-known for two reasons: world’s highest cricket ground and the storied Chail Palace hotel. Chail Palace is one of the main draws here. Pine and deodar trees envelop Chail, which is 2,250 meters above sea level. It is well renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, verdant surroundings, and wide-ranging views of the nearby mountains. Typically, travelers combine trips to Shimla, Kufri, and Chail; many Shimla package deals include all three tourist spots.
Distance From Shimla: 45 km
2. Fagu
One of the many sights to explore within a hundred miles of Shimla is Fagu, which merits further exploration. From the small community of Fagu, one can get a magnificent view of the snow covered Himalayan range. Fagu gives visitors spectacular scenery, little rural settlements, and bizarre views of the fruit gardens. Apple orchards peppered with spruce and cedar trees, together with flower fields blooming from May to October, add to the appeal of Fagu. Fagu is also worthy of a place on the list of peculiar places to visit near Shimla because of its wintertime beauty. At Fagu, nature lovers and adventurers can also go hiking and take pictures.
Distance From Shimla: 20 km
3. Tannu Jubbar Lake
The charming Tannu Jubbar Lake is situated 40 kilometers from Shimla in the hills near the town of Narkanda. This serene lake provides stunning vistas and a serene setting for those seeking solace from the bustle of the city. Lush flora and apple orchards encircle it. Furthermore, Tannu Jubbar Lake is the location of a small but notable temple dedicated to the local deity known as the “Naag Devta.” The natural ecology is preserved because there aren’t many houses or farms in the vicinity of the lake. For picnickers, lone travelers, and lovers of the great outdoors, it provides the perfect getaway. In addition to its breathtaking natural beauty, the place radiates simplicity and the untainted charm of the Himalayan region.
Distance From Shimla: 40 km
4. Kasauli
Kasauli, a hilly cantonment town in the Solan district can be reached from Chandigarh via road. It is a serene holiday destination that is ideal for short weekend nearest Shimla trips. Kasauli is a town full of lavish Victorian homes built by the British settlers in the past. The quaint community has beautiful vistas and scenic walks. It is one the beautiful places to visit near Shimla within 50 kms, making it the most visited place as per a survey from the Shimla tourism.
Distance From Shimla: 50 km
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5. Narkanda
Known for its winter skiing, Narkanda, sometimes also called the “gateway to Apple Country,” is a quaint little village 65 miles from the Shimla district. It is encircled by gorgeous hills, forests, and tropical woods. This hill station connects Shimla to the valleys of Kinnaur and Spiti and receives a lot of snowfall in the winter. At nine thousand feet, the little village entices tourists with its beautiful apple orchards and ethereal natural splendor. It offers the perfect escape from the throngs of tourists in Shimla. The town is well-known for its ski slopes in the winter and its year-round hiking trails.
Distance From Shimla: 65 km
6. Solan
Solan is an industrial town on the lower Himalayan hills which is about 50 kilometers from Shimla. It borders Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. Travelers looking for a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city could think about Solan as a more laid-back place. The town’s ancient temples and monasteries welcome hundreds of pilgrims and tourists each year. Solan is sometimes referred to as the “mushroom capital” because a large amount of mushrooms is grown here annually. It is also home to one of the oldest known breweries in India.
Distance From Shimla: 50 km
7. Barog
Barog is a town in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, 52 km from Shimla. It is a well-liked travel destination since it provides travelers with rich pre-colonial history and mythology in addition to the magnificent Himalayan landscape. This would be a place that delivers all the customary Himachal magic along with a unique blend of wonder and originality. If you intend to trek, camp, and explore the surrounding areas while in Shimla during the monsoon season, Barog should be at the top of your list. There is so much this little town has to offer visitors that you really must not miss the opportunity to board a bus and explore it.
Distance From Shimla: 52 km
8. Gilbert Trail
Kasauli’s scenic Gilbert Walking Track is well-known for its tranquilly and wide vistas. The Gilbert Trail amplifies from Lover’s Lane and provides excitement for outdoor enthusiasts who walk. It’s a narrow trail with lush greenery bordering both ends, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It’s common to witness a variety of bird species or the occasional butterfly flutter. Because of its comparatively low traffic volume, the route provides a tranquil sanctuary for anyone who wants to get away from the crowd of the city. It is important to keep in mind that the path can get very slick during the wet season, therefore travelers are urged to come well prepared.
Distance From Shimla: 35 km
9. Thanedar
Thanedar is a quaint place that is well-known for its apple orchards, stunning scenery, and pleasant climate. The Himalayan Apple Valley, where visitors may stroll through the vast orchards and observe how apples are grown, is one of Thanedar’s top attractions. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Thanedar offers a serene sanctuary perfect for those seeking natural beauty and healing. Never to miss as it is one of the best places to visit near Shimla.
Distance From Shimla: 80 km
10. Shojha
Shojha is a little town located in the middle of a large forest approximately 55 km from Shimla. Its pristine beauty might be just what you need to unwind. Numerous wooden temples may be seen in the town, which is located in the center of the Banjar Valley. Shojha and Jalori Pass are only five miles apart, and the area enjoys pleasant year-round weather. Without a doubt one of the best places near Shimla to visit.
Distance From Shimla: 55 km
11. Kotgarh
Kotgarh, another apple-growing region, is well-known for its serene surroundings and broad views of the Himalayas. The Kotgarh Orchards, where you may stroll amid the apple trees, sample fresh apples, and enjoy the tranquility of the rural setting, is one of the primary attractions. Know more about the history and culture of the region by exploring the former Kotgarh Fort. Kotgarh is one of the many such places to visit near Shimla within 100 kms.
Distance From Shimla: 75 km
12. Sunset Point
Sunset Point is a well-liked tourist destination known for its spectacular views of the horizon, as the sun sets behind the hills and colors the sky. The point is situated near Kasauli, an adorable hill town in Himachal Pradesh, India. It is located where Upper Mall Road ends. On clear days, one can see the peaks of the Choor Chandni range and the Sutlej River as well as a panoramic view of the Kasauli lowlands. Photographers should definitely visit Sunset Point to capture some picture perfect clicks. Its tranquil ambience and cool mountain breeze offer a welcoming diversion from the hectic pace of daily life.
Distance From Shimla: 30 km
13. Kufri
Kufri is a quaint little hill town within a few kilometers from Shimla. Kufri, which was once thought to have been the British summer retreat still has structures and architecture from its colonial past. Due to its pleasant summertime temperatures and wintertime snowfall, Kufri is nearly always full of visitors. Tourists are present, but it’s not as crowded as Shimla. The Himalayan Nature Park in Kufri provides hiking, skiing, and horseback riding for its guests. Himalayan flora and fauna that may be found in the park include yaks, deer, and many bird species. That being said, November through March, when snowfall is at its peak, is the best time to visit Kufri.
Distance From Shimla: 25 km
14. Tattapani
Tattapani, a popular tourist attraction in Himachal Pradesh is nothing short of a dream. It offers a lot of amazing sights surrounded by a pure environment. Tattapani, on the banks of the Sutlej River, is mostly known for its hot springs, which are believed to provide healing benefits for a range of illnesses, including rheumatism and skin conditions. It is one of the must visit places near Shimla for people looking for some adventure as river rafting is the top highlight of this place.
Distance From Shimla: 60 km
15. Parwanoo
Parwanoo, formerly a peaceful town has developed into an industrial metropolis now. Here, one may take in the alluring ambiance of both the bustle of a metropolis and a hill station. This little hamlet located on the border of Himachal Pradesh and Haryana, is known for its lovely apple orchards and mouthwatering fruit products. It’s a great place for outdoor pursuits like cable car rides, hiking and trekking, and it appeals to those who enjoy the outdoors. This region will enchant you with its green canopy of pine trees and nice weather. It makes for one of the most delightful and relaxing trips.
Distance From Shimla: 84 km
Also Read: Top 22 Amazing Places To Visit In Shimla
Which of these beautiful places to visit near Shimla are you adding to your travel list? Do let us know in the comments below.
FAQs
Both Shimla and Manali are exclusive destinations that are worth visiting. Shimla has more historical and cultural attractions while Manali is more into adventure sports and natural beauty. It is best to combine both the destinations and see them while visiting Himachal Pradesh.
Two days is a good time to experience all that this beautiful hill station has to offer. If you wish to see the nearby places too, then add another two days to your Shimla itinerary.
If you are looking to explore some outdoor activities like trekking, camping, paragliding and rafting, the summer months of May to June are a good time. If you wish to explore Shimla’s winter sports, festivals and carnival, the winter months between October–February is the ideal time.
