Uncover the Hidden Gems: Offbeat Places Near Shimla
Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Shimla is a beautiful hill station known for its lush greenery and panoramic views. The beautiful valley is also known as
‘Queen of hills’ because of its charm, hills, and pleasant weather. The best part is that Shimla is one of the nearest hill stations to Chandigarh, 111 km. So, if you are working and not able to get a long holiday, then worry not, as 2 days of holiday are enough to relax at the hill station. Also, there are so many other off-beat places near Shimla that you may not be aware of. So, why not in this post discuss such locations?
Kufri:
Just a short drive away from Shmila, Kufri is a quiet and peaceful hill station with fewer crowds. Kufri is known for its cafes, horse riding, and delicious food. If you are a nature enthusiast, the Himalayan Nature Park is a great highlight, which has all kinds of birds and animals. If you want to trek, you can go to Mahasu Peak, which is the highest point of Kufri. From here, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Himalayas and create memories.
Narkanda:
Want to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh? Want to have a fun time around the apple orchards? Well, Narkanda has all that to offer. Just located 61 km away from Shimla, the beauty of this hill station is a feast to the eyes. The best time to visit Narkhanda is during the winter season when it turns into a snow wonderland. In the snow, you can do skiing, tube sliding and horse-riding. You knew that gliding down the snow-covered slopes would be so much fun.
Narkanda also has many local farms, which allow the tourists not just to see the agricultural strategies but also to be a part of the apple picking process. By visiting Narkanda, you will be able to observe Himachal Pradesh at ground level.
Mashobra:
Most people may not have even heard the name of this hill station. It is a beautiful hill station, just 11 km away from Shimla, away from the maddening crowd. Its lush greenery is perfect for picnics and long walks. If you want to disconnect for a while and just want to soak in the beauty of the Himalayas. The dense and peaceful forest is apt for visitors who want to forget the chaos of the city for a while. You can also experience the wildlife on the way. Your spirit will feel rejuvenated.
Chail:
From the taste of history and culture, Chail is the best option. It has the highest playground in the world. Do you know that this hill station was built for the vacation and relaxation of the Maharaja of Patiala, Bhupinder Singh? The palace is now a heritage hotel where you can get a taste of royalty. The amazing architecture, along with the breathtaking scenic views, will blow your mind away.
The Koti Village Resort:
When you drive some 45 minutes away from Shimla, you will reach Koti Village. It has a beautiful resort, which has all the modern amenities. The stone cottages have a balcony with a mesmerising view. What makes a trip memorable is the hotel that you choose to stay in. ‘The Koti Village Resort’ is one of the most amazing resorts where you can disconnect from the world for a while and also enjoy the delicious Himachali cuisine. You can also enjoy the amazing sunrise and sunset from the balcony of your room, along with a sipping hot cup of tea.
Annandale:
If you want to get a Switzerland kind of vibe in Himachal Pradesh, then Annandale is a meadow located in Shimla. It was created as a playground for the British officers. Now, it is a favorite spot for the locals and tourists. It has one of the oldest golf courses, which was established in the year 1864. It also has a unique cactus garden which is worth a visit.
Final Words:
Himachal Pradesh is no doubt a beautiful hill station, but if you want a quick trip, then the above-mentioned locations are quick to cover. You will be able to relax and also will not have to travel much. ‘The Koti Village Resort’ offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the valley. It is a perfect destination for leisure, relaxation, and a wide range of adventure activities. So, what are you waiting for? So, book this resort today to enhance the quality of your vacation and create everlasting memories.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What Are Some of the Unique Places to Visit in Shimla?
Some of the unique places to visit in Shimla are the ridge, Mall Road, Kufri, Jakhoo Temple, Scandal Point, and toy train.
Is 2 days enough for a visit to Shimla?
Yes, two days are enough, but it also depends on your interests. A couple of days are enough if you just want to see some of the major attractions. But if you want to explore, do sightseeing and trekking, then you will have to stay for more than 2 days.
What are the Offbeat Places Near Shimla Which Are Worth Visiting?
Some of the offbeat places like Tattapani (hot spring), Narkanda (for its apple orchids), Mashobra is popular for its quiet natural retreat, and Chail are known for their wildlife sanctuaries.
What is the Best Time to Visit These offbeat Places Near Shimla?
In the spring season (March to June) and autumn (September to November). After November, you can enjoy a trip to these offbeat locations in winter. The snowfall will further add fun to the trip.
Is It Safe to Visit This Offbeat Place With Families & Kids?
Yes, all of these locations are family-friendly and safe to vacation with friends and family. Chail also has a kid-friendly park, while Kufri has a zoo which will fascinate the kids.
Can you Visit These Places During Monsoon?
While monsoon seasons offer amazing lush greenery but it is important to be cautious as, due to rain, the paths are slippery, which also causes landslides. So, it is best to wait for the rainy season to get over, and check the weather report if you want to visit the hilly region in this season.
