Winter Destinations Near Shimla for Trips

Do you dream of snowflakes gently falling and landscapes wrapped in white magic? Shimla, the queen of hills, offers a winter wonderland every traveler adores. But did you know the charm doesn’t stop there? Around Shimla, several places deliver a mesmerizing winter experience.

Planning a Shimla family vacation? Let’s uncover the best five winter destinations near Shimla that will make your trip truly unforgettable. We’ll share details about their history, distance, attractions, and winter activities. So, bundle up, and let’s explore!

Top 5 Winter Destinations Near Shimla

Here’s a quick glance at the top winter destinations near Shimla:

Sr. No.	Destination	Distance from Shimla	Travel Time	Key Highlights
1	Kufri	16 km	45 minutes	Snow sports, Panoramic views, Zoo
2	Narkanda	62 km	2 hours	Skiing, Apple Orchards, Hatu Peak trek
3	Mashobra	13 km	40 minutes	Serene nature, snow trekking, wildlife
4	Chail	45 km	1.5 hours	Kali Ka Tibba, snow charm
5	Tattapani	50 km	2 hours	Hot springs, Shiva Caves, Rafting

1. Kufri: The Snow Haven

Kufri, known as the winter sports capital of Himachal Pradesh, is a paradise for snow lovers. It is home to adventure-packed activities and a serene environment that attracts visitors year-round. Kufri comes from the word "Kufr," meaning a lake in the local dialect. British officers discovered it as a retreat during colonial times. Over the years, it transformed into a hub for skiing and winter activities.

Major Attractions

Kufri Fun World	A famous amusement park surrounded by snow
Mahasu Peak	A short trek offering panoramic views of the Himalayan range
Wildlife Zoo	Spot rare antelopes, Himalayan bears, and birds here.

Also Read:- Top 8 Adventure Activities in Kufri, Himachal Pradesh

Activities
Skiing and tobogganing on snow-covered slopes.
Exploring Snow Kingdom Kufri, an indoor snow park open year-round.
Snowball fights and building snowmen with family.

2. Narkanda: A Skiing Paradise

Narkanda is a peaceful hill station offering snow activities and breathtaking Himalayan views. It’s perfect for adventure seekers and those looking to escape the crowds. Narkanda is one of the oldest skiing destinations in India. The British introduced skiing here in the 19th century, and it remains a winter hotspot to this day.

Major Attractions

Hatu Peak	A moderate trek leading to stunning views and an ancient temple.
Tannu Jubbar Lake	A picturesque spot surrounded by snow.
Apple orchards	which look magical in winter.

Also Read:- Tourist places near Kufri

Activities
Skiing on the snowy slopes.
Winter treks to Hatu Peak.
Cozying up by the fire in quaint cottages.

3. Mashobra: A Quiet Winter Retreat

Mashobra is a serene escape for families looking to relax amid nature. Its untouched beauty and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal winter retreat. Mashobra became popular during British rule as a peaceful getaway. It houses several colonial-era bungalows and apple orchards.

Major Attractions

Reserve Forest Sanctuary	A haven for nature and wildlife lovers.
Craignano Nature Park	Perfect for picnics and walks.
Trees	Charming village roads and snow-laden trees.

Activities
Snow trekking in the forests.
Birdwatching and photography in a snow-covered landscape.
Enjoying Himachali cultural events during festivals.

4. Chail: The Royal Winter Escape

Chail is known for its royal charm and tranquil environment. Its location amidst dense forests and snow-draped hills makes it a perfect winter escape. The Maharaja of Patiala established Chail in 1893 after being exiled from Shimla. It served as his summer retreat and houses the world’s highest cricket ground.

Major Attractions

Chail Palace	A heritage hotel surrounded by snow.
Kali Ka Tibba	A serene temple with panoramic views.
Cricket Ground	The world’s highest cricket pitch, covered in snow during winter.

Activities
Strolling through the snow-covered Chail Palace grounds.
Attending Himachali cultural events in the village.
Trekking to Kali Ka Tibba for incredible snow views.

5. Tattapani: Warmth Amidst Snow

Tattapani offers a unique mix of snow and natural hot springs, making it a must-visit during winter. Tattapani, meaning “hot water,” has been known for its natural springs for centuries. These springs hold religious significance and are believed to have healing properties.

Major Attractions

Hot Springs	Relax in naturally warm water surrounded by snow.
Shiva Caves	A spiritual spot located nearby.
Rafting	Rafting on the Satluj River.

Activities
Take a dip in the hot springs to beat the winter chill.
Trekking to nearby villages.
Enjoying local Himachali cuisine by the riverside.

Also Read:- Explore the Seven Hills of Shimla

The Best Time for Shimla Trip

Winter is undoubtedly the best time for Shimla trip, especially if you want to experience snowfall. Plan your visit between late December and early February for the best snow and winter activities.

Conclusion:

All these destinations offer unique experiences, but having the perfect base is essential. The Twin Towers Hotel in Kufri stands out as the ideal place to stay. Its proximity to these locations makes it convenient for travelers.

Why Choose The Twin Towers Hotel?

• Awarded the TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Award in 2024.
• Spacious rooms with modern amenities, including Deluxe, Premier, and Family Suites.
• Located near Adventure Resorts Kufri and Snow Kingdom Kufri, offering endless fun.

So, whether it’s the snowy slopes of Kufri, the ski adventures in Narkanda, or the hot springs of Tattapani, your winter holiday will be unforgettable. Book your stay at The Twin Towers Hotel in Kufri, Shimla now and experience the magic of winter like never before!

Also Read:- Best Place to Stay in Shimla During Snow Season