Queen of hill stations, Shimla has lot much to explore than the known side. This beautiful summer capital of Himachal Pradesh is every tourist’s dream destination and since its beautiful, it has certain unexploited, unknown sides too. There are so many places near Shimla that remain untouched and unexplored by travel enthusiasts. These are the perfect destinations to relax, rejuvenate and recharge; be it a romantic holiday with your partner or family vacations or the adventurous and thriller experiences. Cheong has some breathtaking views of the scenic beauty; Kotkhai has some traditions that are celebrated; Kotgarh and Theog have the most mesmerizing backdrops for nature lovers. Mentioning below are some still to be exploited, unadulterated and interesting travel destinations near Shimla.
NALDEHRA
This hill resort is an hour drive from the capital of Himachal Pradesh and is very classy and treat to visual eyes. It is a hill resort that is “far from the maddening crowd”. This peaceful serene and calming hill resort situated at a high altitude is just perfect for a family vacation or to spend quality time with friends or loved ones. Its USP is its 18 hole high altitude golf course. Exploring this place is an experience in itself.
TRAVEL GUIDE: Book a cab or any private vehicle from Shimla to Chail.
MUST VISIT: Golf Course, Mahunag Temple, Nature Walk, Horse Riding.
NARKANDA
60km from Shimla city, it is the most beautiful town of Shimla, attracting thousands of tourists all through the year. It has a very soothing greenery and calming surrounding. Situated at an altitude of 2,706 meters it is covered with apple and cherry orchards, making it visually appealing for photography and nature lovers.
FAGU
It is a mystical, magical and mesmerising destination situated 2,500 meters above the sea level covered with snow clad peaks, breezy atmosphere and the majestic Himalayan range. Being snow clad and at high altitude, it feels like being close to the clouds covered by mist and fog, gives you a feeling of being in the company of clouds. It is one of the finest places to visit in Shimla.
KIARIGHAT
Whenever you want to take a break from the fast, paced, monotonous city life this is the place to be. Its a perfect weekend getaway and its relaxing vibes will give you the much needed soothing and calming experience.
SHOJA
This tiny hamlet situated near Jalori Pass is perfect for adventurous travel and is a sought after destination in Himachal Pradesh for those interested in trekking and camping. Its nearby locations are just perfect for nature’s walk and photography. Whether travelling with friends or partner, Shoja is a must.
KARSOG
Though a small town in Himachal Pradesh, it is an ideal family relaxation place with some excellent resorts, home stay is quite popular here, it will help in getting familiar with the culture of the region. Apple orchards are quite popular and favourite to take back home.
SIRMAUR
It is a more of a spiritual rejuvenation with Gurudwara, Monasteries and Temples around to explore, experience a peaceful time to rediscover your inner self. It is a perfect destination to introspect, have a deeper look into the lifestyle of the villagers. For those wanting to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life, this is the right destination.
SARAHAN
It is the “Gateway to Kinnaur”, situated at an altitude of 2,313 metres. The major attraction of this place is the Bhimkali temple visiting which is an experience itself. The flowing Sutlej river gives an ultimate aura to the atmosphere around.
TIRTHAN VALLEY
It is most popular for adventurous activities like fishing, trekking and wildlife watching. It is the perfect hotspot for those wanting an adernaline rush or else exploring the nearby villages or relaxing amongst pine plantations is equally rejuvenating. The valley is surrounded by majestic hills, alpine meadows and dense coniferous plantations that makes it a perfect sight-seeing hotspot. You can also spot a variety of bird spieces.
CHEOG
It is a small town located near Shimla, can be reached with the help of a cab or state transport services via Shimla. It is popular for its breathtaking views of the hills and the mountains. This town is easily accesible via road, rail or air. Some nearby places that can be explored are Kufri, Chail, Naldehra and Mashobra.
THEOG
It is one of the most untamed and unexploited place near Shimla situated at the height of 2,310 metres, the nature is at its best and the mountains clearly visible on a sunny day.
KOTKHAI
It is derived from Urdu and Hindi language where “Kot” means ‘king’s palace’ and “Khai” means ‘depth’, meaning king’s palace situated in depth. Kotkhai has been hosting its traditional sport of bows and arrows known among the locals as ‘thotha’. There are a lot of places to be explored in Kotkhai like Kiala forest, Garawog, Kotkhai Palace and the HPCA Stadium Gumma.
KOTGARH
This place is popular for apple vine, after the cultivation of apples by the American missionary Satyanan Stokes. It is a photographer’s delight with breathtaking views of the flowing Sutlej river. You can experience Pahari cuisines and small treks around the hills. Summer is the perfect season to visit if you are into adventurous activities like Paragliding, Camping, Treking and Rafting. It is a perfect place for adventure enthusiasts.
MATIANA
It is one of the unsung hill stations around Shimla. Its a heaven for nature lover’s delight, providing peace and tranquility in the laps of mountains. It is a beautiful and simple village in Himachal Pradesh which should not be missed! Matiana is around 45kms from Shimla town.
To reach Matiana you can hire a local taxi and also few local busses are available this is on the way to Narkanda
Activities that can be done –
- – Village hopping
- – Trekking
- – Nature photography
- – Horse riding
- – Plucking fresh apples from the orchards
- – Picnic
- – Bonfire with friends and family
HAVE A GREAT, ENJOYABLE AND MEMORABLE VACATION!
