Ruskin Bond spent three vital years of his life in Shimla reading and drawing inspiration. Well, that says a lot about Shimla itself. Located at the height of 2,205 metres above sea level, this quaint town which was once a summer capital for the British is an escape especially during the summer season. Even though you might have already visited Shimla, we’re sure there’s a lot more that you can explore. Apart from the local culture, food and markets, there are many destinations around this small hamlet that will leave you dumbfounded with its grace and beauty. We have curated a list of seven such amazing places.
Best 7 Surprising Places Near Shimla
1 Narkanda
This is one of the most famous destinations around Shimla. Popular for skiing and other winter sports, the best time to visit Narkanda would be from September to November. If you are someone who has the adventure bug, this place is for you. It is located at an altitude of 2708 metres, it is a famous destination for people who want to get into winter sports. The Tannu Jubbar Lake is also quite famous and a destination that you must visit once in Narkanda.
2 Kiarighat
This is a small village that falls on the way of the Kalka-Shimla railway. Even though most people stay for a night in Kiarighat, there is a lot to explore in this quaint hamlet.
3 Naldehar
Located at a short distance from Shimla, Naldehar is a valley famous for its lush green golf fields. If you are an enthusiast, you must definitely go on a small golfing tour during your trip. Apart from that, it also offers trekking, hiking and a variety of other adventure sports.
4 Shoja
A 5-hour drive from Shimla will take you to the beautiful spot of Shoja. Its breathtaking nature will surely fill you with joy and help you escape the Shimla crowd during peak seasons. This one is truly the road not taken. There are a few waterfalls in Shoja and one of the most unique experiences that it offers is trout fishing near Tirthan Valley. Make sure you do that when you’re in Shoja.
5 Karsog
The best place to visit if you are done with the overflowing crowd of Shimla is Karsog. The valley has a deep history and is related to the Indian epic Mahabharata. The best season to visit the Karsog valley is during the months of June and July when the apples are harvested. There are many temples and apple orchards where you can go for a session of apple picking with your near and dear ones.
6 Tirthan Valley
One of the upcoming and comparatively unexplored places in Himachal includes the Tirthan Valley. The beautiful and crystal clear Tirthan and a trek by it are all you need to unwind and get your creativity back. The views of the Himalayas that one comes across during a trek through the Tirthan Valley remain with them. It is situated at a height of 1600 metres and you will surely feel the adrenaline rush when you visit the valley.
7 Kotgarh
Also known as the apple bowl of India, this place is located a short distance from Shimla. According to popular stories, the first American apple tree was planted in Shimla in this very village. Kotgarh was formerly a princely state and also had an important role during British rule. Get a taste of the original Himachali Apple in Kotgarh.
8 Do not be under prepared
It is imperative to pack in an organized manner for a trip alone. Always keep a handy first aid kit on yourself. Your choice of anti – inflammatory, bandages, disinfectants, and pain medicine. Along with your prescribed ones, of course.
9 Do not be under prepared
It is imperative to pack in an organized manner for a trip alone. Always keep a handy first aid kit on yourself. Your choice of anti – inflammatory, bandages, disinfectants, and pain medicine. Along with your prescribed ones, of course.
10 Do not be under prepared
It is imperative to pack in an organized manner for a trip alone. Always keep a handy first aid kit on yourself. Your choice of anti – inflammatory, bandages, disinfectants, and pain medicine. Along with your prescribed ones, of course.
11 Do not be under prepared
It is imperative to pack in an organized manner for a trip alone. Always keep a handy first aid kit on yourself. Your choice of anti – inflammatory, bandages, disinfectants, and pain medicine. Along with your prescribed ones, of course.