How to go Narkanda and Kufri from Shimla

Whenever visiting Shimla, exploring one place is never enough. With so many places, Narkanda and Kufri are the must visit nearby destinations. Both of these places are perfect to explore for adventure, nature and peace. While Kufri is renowned tourist hub famous for snow activities and panoramic views, Narkanda is more peaceful and an offbeat gem that will offer you some of the stunning landscapes with apple orchards. But if you are thinking How to go Narkanda and Kufri from Shimla we might have answer to that. Let us give you a 3 day tour plan for same. 

The distance of Shimla to Kufri is around 16 km, which hardly takes around an hour to reach. Kufri is a paradise for snow lovers in winter which offers various types of activities like skiing, tobogganing, horse riding, trekking etc. It is also home to the Himalayan Nature Park, where you can spot various animals like black bear, leopard and Himalayan Monal. Another highlight of Kufri is Mahasu Peak that offers the views of snowy mountains. 

On the Other Narkanda is quiet place that is known for its apple orchards and beautiful Hatu Peak which is the highest point in the region. Shimla to Narkanda distance is almost 62 km which might take you around 2 and half hour to reach. Narkanda is a great place for trying trekking, camping and skiing in winter. Moreover with its serene vibes this place is perfect escape for those who need rest from the bustling tourist places in Shimla.

How to reach Kufri and Narkanda?

The route to reach Narkanda will be from Kufri rather than from Shimla. Here is how you can reach- 

• By car/ Taxi – Shimla to Kufri drive will take you around half an hour and then Kufri to Narkanda will be a drive of around 2 hours. If you are going by a self-drive then you can opt for this route 

  
  

Shimla - Kufri - Fagu - Theog - Matiana – Narkanda

• By Bus – You can also go there by bus, there are regular HRTC buses from Shimla to Narkanda through Kufri and these are available throughout the day. In fact these are budget friendly options that might cost you under 200 rupees depending on the type of bus you choose. 

  
  

Now that you know how to reach let us tell you how you should plan a 3 day tour itinerary from Shimla to Narkanda and Kufri.

3 Day Tour Itinerary – Shimla to Narkanda and Kufri 

Here you can plan this trip – 

Day 1 – Shimla to Kufri 

Once you are done with your Shimla Tour, you can start your journey towards Kufri. The scenic drive through the spectacular views of the surrounding hills will give you a great opportunity to click photos and make video. After reaching you can start your fun journey as there are a lot of Things to do in Kufri. So first head to Kufri Fun World, an amusement park known for its thrilling rides. If you visit in winter then you can also try snow activities here.

By mid-morning and afternoon you can visit Himalayan Nature Park and spot native wildlife there. This park also offers an educational experience about the flora and fauna of the region. Then if you still feel energetic you can take a short trek or a mule ride to Mahasu Peak, the highest point in Kufri. By afternoon have traditional Himachali lunch and then visit the Indira Tourist Park for a relaxing stroll. Afterwards, explore the local area and then take rest at guesthouse or hotel. Do enjoy the bonfire and star gazing at night. 

Day 2 – Kufri to Narkanda 

After an early breakfast, say goodbye to Kufri and drive towards Narkanda. This journey passes from the beautiful villages of Fagu, Theog and Matiana. Once you reach Narkanda, head straight to Hatu Peak. Either you can drive up to the point or you can trek 6 km to reach to the top. It is a moderate trek that offers some stunning views. The first place to visit after reaching there is Hatu Mata Temple, a beautiful wooden temple structure from where you can also enjoy gorgeous views.

After being in serenity for a while, you can descend from Hatu Peak and have lunch at local restaurant in Narkanda. After taking lunch you can rest for a while and then visit one of the nearby apple orchards. Try to visit during the harvest season so that you can indulge in apple picking. 

Although there might be limited Tourist attractions in Narkanda but you will be mesmerised by the beauty and simplicity of this place. 

Day 3 – Narkanda to Shimla 

This is the time to wrap up your trip. But first you can visit the Strokes Farm which is one of the largest apple farms in the region. Afterwards you plan a skiing session if you are visiting in winters. Narkanda is popular skiing destination with good slopes so it is a great place to try this activity, even if you are a beginner or intermediate skier. In the daytime you can have lunch at local dhaba and try the delicacies like Tudkiya bhat and Babru. 

After this you can head back to Shimla. If you are not very much tired after reaching Shimla, you go on to explore the local markets like Mall Road or Lakkar Bazaar for Souvenirs or you can continue with your Shimla Sightseeing Tour. 

Best Time to visit Narkanda and Kufri 

If you are a snow lover then you can visit both these places by the time of winter. The months of December till February turn these places into wonderland. But the best time to visit Kufri and Narkanda is the summer season. It is a great time to escape from the scorching heat of other cities and to try activities too. You can easily explore all the sites without stressing about too much heat or cold. In fact you can also visit Kufri in monsoon, as this place receives a limited amount of rainfall. The best time to visit these places will depend on your choice of activity that you want to do. 

Conclusion  

A 3 day trip from Shimla to Kufri and Narkanda is the best way to experience nature and adventure of Himachal Pradesh. From snow covered mountains and apple orchards to peaceful peaks and adventure activities, Kufri and Narkanda has it all. With so many Hill Stations in Himachal, a trip to these places whether you are going with family, friends or solo, will give you memories to cherish in the Himalayas.