Shimla, encased in Rhododendron, Himalayan Oak, and fir trees is crowned with the title ‘Queen of hills’. Shimla has been in importance since the very beginning, from being the summer capital during the British era to being the state capital of Himachal Pradesh. It has always captivated numerous tourists from all over India and the world. The city has received its name from Shyamala Mata who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Kali for whom a temple is dedicated on the hilltop of Bantony as Kali Bari Temple. Shimla is one of the favorite hill stations in Indian hearts and is also listed under UNESCO World Heritage sites along with few other hill stations of India. Also, the Shimla-Kalka Railway which still runs on the almost century-old engine built during British rule is listed in UNESCO World Heritage sites. Shimla was brought into importance only after the start of British rule. Shimla is home to the oldest post office and only Natural Ice skating Rink. In 1806, Shimla was invaded by Bhimsen That Nepal. After the Anglo- Nepalese war between 1814-16, the British East India Company took over the territory under control as per the Sugauli Treaty. Due to once being the Britisher’s vacation hub, Shimla has many structures influenced by British culture, one of those is the Second Oldest Church of North- India. Leaders of the freedom movement Mahatma Gandhi, Pandit Nehru, Sardar Patel, Maulana Azad, and many others frequently visited Shimla during the struggling days of Independence. Shimla has an important role in Indian History as the India- Pakistan peace treaty, Shimla agreement was signed by Prime Minister of India Indira Gandhi and President of Pakistan Zulfikar Ali Bhutto at that date in Viceregal Lodge which is now, Indian Institute of Advanced Studies.  During its heyday, it attracted many princes, diplomats, merchants, and political leaders of countries like Tibet, Afghanistan, Myanmar, China, and other countries. Shimla is also an Agricultural trade center and has industries like manufacturing, Brewing, and handloom weaving.

Places to visit near Shimla

Mashobra (approx.10.3 km)

Mashobra is a small and less explored town with an abundance of rich flora and fauna. It is located at an elevation of about 2,347 meters. Mashobra is a perfect place for people looking for a getaway from the crowd. Reserve Forest Sanctuary here is one of Asia’s largest watersheds that supply water to Shimla. It is a place worth visiting for its lush deciduous envelopes around it and is a delight for birdwatchers. Carignano is a must-visit place, it is a picnic spot with calm ambiance and always pleasant weather which was the earlier villa of Chevalier to an Italian photographer in India during the colonial era named this place in honor of his native town  Craginano Town in Italy. Mashobra peak is popular for its small fair held in May, which is a celebration done while shifting the idol of Lord Mashu. It is a great place to visit for people interested in exploring the traditions and festivals.

Distance from Shimla to Mashobra: 10.3 km via Dhalli Bypass and SH 13

Time required to reach Mashobra from Shimla: 35 mins

Time required to explore Mashobra: 1-2 days

Kufri (approx. 14.4 km)

Kufri was founded by the Britishers in the year 1819, has recently come into the highlight as an important tourist destination. Kufri is popularly known as the starting point of several treks, its Ski slopes, and the Kufri Zoo. Mahasu Peak located at an altitude of 2,720 meters, along with Fagu Valley attracts many tourists for hiking. The peak is accessible by a hike or a pony ride therefore no disappointment to non-hikers. Time can be spent well on the peak playing with snow or emerging in the beautiful view offered on the peak while photography as there are a few photo points. Go-karting in Kufri Fun World is another amazing activity to indulge in as Kufri has the highest go-karting track in the world. Indira Tourist Park is a place for people to chill in a quiet ambiance and pleasant environment with good food and drinks.

Distance from Shimla to Kufri: 14.4 km via NH05

Time required to reach Kufri from Shimla: 45 mins

Time required to explore Kufri: 1 day

Shoghi ( approx. 14.6 km)

Shoghi is a good option for people willing a hustle-free visit to Shimla with a calm, serene, and epitome of beauty here adorned with dense vegetation of Himalayan flora. Shogi has excellent resorts to host the guests helping with a comfortable stay  A nature walk in the green nature while visiting the ancient temples around is a well-recommended activity or trying the fruit made products here. Tara Devi Temple is one of the famous and believed temples. Camping, trekking, and hiking are also famous activities done here. The Jakhu Hill hike is the most famous hike while in Shoghi.

Distance from Shimla to Shojha: 14.6 km via NH05

Time required to reach Shojha from Shimla: 35 mins

Time required to explore Shojha: 1-2 days

Fagu (approx. 18 km)

Fagu is a snow-clad hamlet with a serene atmosphere located at an elevation of 2500 meters.  It is believed that the name ‘Fagu’ is derived from the term ‘fog’ as the place is covered with fog for almost 9 months of the year. With the spectacle of the snow-curtained Himalayas and the pleasant weather, Fagu is honeymooners’ paradise. It is also popularly known among trekkers and nature lovers. The apple plantations with rich red apples and potato fields here are very popular and common sites. The whole place is encased with lush green pine and cedar trees with green meadows.  The inhabitants of Fagu like Ponies, yak, and snow leopards can be spotted. Bhantia Devta Temple is an archeological marvel popular in Fagu recommended for tourists and devotees. Also, the Chharabra Sunrise and Sunset point is popular for the golden hour view.

Distance from Shimla to Fagu: 14.6 km via NH05

Time required to reach Fagu from Shimla: 45 mins

Time required to explore Fagu: 1-2 days

Naldehra (approx. 23 km)

Naldehra is a small hill station of Himachal Pradesh, a perfect offbeat location. It is popularly known for its lush green meadows and golf course and plain views of the mountains of Pines, Cedar, and Deodar trees. Naldehra is astonishing with the spectacle of mountains and the Sutlej river. It was Lord Curzon, the British Viceroy of India who discovered Naldehra and was mesmerized by its beauty during the 21st century after which the place was brought into notice. Tourists can enjoy their time in the lush green valley or take a horse ride to the Naldehra Golf course, India’s most famous Golf course.

Distance from Shimla to Naldehra: 23 km via NH05

Time required to reach Naldehra from Shimla: 1hr

Time required to explore Naldehra: 1 day

Solan (approx.44.3 km)

Solan is the Mushroom Capital of India located in the Punjab-Himachal Valley lying on the lower Himalayan range. It is much of an Industrial town with different industries. Solan is a quiet hill station perfect for tourists willing to be away from the crowd. Solan is treasured with ancient temples and monasteries attracting thousands of tourists and devotees every year. One of the most popular monasteries is Yundung Monastery. This beautiful city has a spectacle of majestic hills and quaint charm to the center of worship. Solan is also known as the city of red gold as it produces tomatoes in bulk. Solan has the oldest breweries in India. The 300-year fort located on the hilltop is in ruins yet a popular site to visit. The Shoolini Mata Temple and Jatoli Shiv Temple are a must-visit for devotees as well as tourists.

Distance from Shimla to Solan: 44.3 km via NH05

Time required to reach Solan from Shimla: 1hr 45 mins

Time required to explore Solan: 1 day

Chail ( approx.45.5 km)

Chail located at an altitude of 2250 meters is a hushed hill station near Shimla. Chail is popularly known for its world’s highest Cricket ground and Heritage hotel. Chail is perfect for an excursion trip from Shimla taking only 2 hours to reach Chail from Mall Road. Chail is the former capital of Patiyala built by the former Maharaja of Patiyala after being banished from Shimla. Chail has been the center of attraction for adventure activity and for soulful vacation, since its foundation in 1893. The famous tourist town of Chail comprises Pandewa, Rajgarh, and Sadh Tibba. Many trekking and camping options in Chail are available, on the banks of river Sandhupul. Chail Wildlife Sanctuary is also a site worth visiting while in Chail.

Distance from Shimla to Chail: approx. 45.5 km via NH05

Time required to reach Chail from Shimla: 2 hours

Time required to explore Chail: 1 day

Shojha ( approx. 57.4 km)

Shojha which is also referred to as Shoja is a small and untouched village encased with wilderness and panorama perfect for a vacation with family. Its unexplored beauty could just be the thing needed to relax. It is located betwixt the Banjar Valley is the place is dotted with many wooden temples. Shojha is merely 5 km away from the Jalori pass making it popular among backpackers and trekkers. Shojha has various forts and waterfalls like Raghupur fort, Waterfall point, Tirthan Valley, Serolsar lake making it a rewarding place for tourists.

Distance from Shimla to Shojha: 57.4 km via SH18

Time required to reach Shojha from Shimla: 2hr 7 min

Time required to explore Shojha: 1-2 days

Narkanda ( approx. 60.4 km)

Narkanda popularly known for skiing in winter is a quaint little town encased by forests and woodland. Located at an elevation of 2,743meters captivates tourists’ attention with its ethereal natural beauty and beautiful apple orchards. Tannu Jabar Lake is one of the famous tourist attractions of  Narkanda along with the temple near the lake which is a must-visit for all tourists here. Narkanda has various trekking routes, one of them is the trek to Hatu Nag, a beautiful hill in Narkanda that offers an alluring view of the town. This hill is famous for skiing in winter.

Distance from Shimla to Narkanda: 60.4 km via NH05

Time required to reach Narkanda from Shimla:  2hr 10 mins

Time required to explore Narkanda: 1 day

Kasauli (approx. 70 km)

Kasauli located in the southwestern part of Himachal is situated on the way to Shimla from Chandigarh in Solan District relatively on the lower edges of the Himalayas. Situated betwixt the woody forests of  Chir pine trees, Cedar trees, and herbs like Milk Thistle. Kasauli is an excellent place for weekend getaways. Sunset Point, Gilbert trail, Monkey point are famous tourist places of Kasauli. Other than that shopping and Toy train rides in Kasauli are popular as well.

Distance from Shimla to Kasauli: 70 km via NH05

Time required to reach Kasauli from Shimla:  2hr 30 mins

Time required to explore Kasauli: 1- 2 days