Shimla is one of the most popular hill destinations in Himachal Pradesh, but there is much more to explore beyond the city. From peaceful mountain villages and forest-covered hills to scenic viewpoints and historic temples, several beautiful places are located around Shimla.
If you are planning a trip and want to explore places away from the busy city centre, destinations like Shoghi, Kufri, Mashobra, Naldehra, Fagu, Narkanda, Tara Devi and Chail are worth adding to your itinerary.
Best Places to Visit Near Shimla
Here are some of the best places to explore around Shimla, depending on whether you are looking for nature, adventure, peaceful stays or a short day trip.
1. Shoghi – A Peaceful Mountain Escape
Shoghi is a quiet hill destination near Shimla, surrounded by forests and mountain views. It is a good choice for travellers who want to enjoy the hills without staying in the busiest part of Shimla.
One of the advantages of Shoghi is its location. You can enjoy a peaceful mountain stay while still being close enough to explore Shimla and nearby attractions.
If you are looking for a comfortable stay in the area, explore The Stone Age – Shoghi, a boutique mountain stay in Shoghi, Himachal Pradesh.
Best for: Peaceful stays, couples, families and nature lovers.
2. Kufri – A Popular Family Destination
Kufri is one of the most visited places near Shimla. It is known for its mountain scenery, outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions.
The Himalayan Nature Park is one of the attractions in the area and provides an opportunity to see Himalayan wildlife in a natural setting.
Kufri is especially popular during the winter months, although it can be visited throughout the year.
Best for: Families, activities and first-time visitors.
3. Mashobra – Surrounded by Nature
Located close to Shimla, Mashobra is known for its forests, peaceful surroundings and pleasant mountain atmosphere.
It is a good option if you want to spend a few days away from the crowds. The surrounding deodar forests and mountain landscape make it particularly appealing to travellers looking for a relaxing getaway.
Best for: Couples, families, nature lovers and peaceful stays.
4. Naldehra – Forests and Mountain Views
Naldehra is another popular destination near Shimla. It is surrounded by tall deodar trees and is known for its scenic landscape.
The area is also known for its historic golf course, making it different from some of the more activity-focused destinations around Shimla.
If you enjoy nature, quiet surroundings and relaxed sightseeing, Naldehra can be a good addition to your trip.
Best for: Nature lovers, peaceful day trips and relaxed holidays.
5. Fagu – Quiet Hills and Scenic Views
Fagu is a peaceful destination located in the hills around Shimla. It is known for its mountain views, forests and quiet surroundings.
Compared with central Shimla, Fagu offers a slower pace and is suitable for travellers who want to spend time enjoying the natural landscape.
Best for: Couples, photographers and travellers looking for peaceful surroundings.
6. Narkanda – For Mountain Lovers
Narkanda is farther from Shimla and is better suited for travellers planning a longer day trip or overnight stay.
The destination is surrounded by forests and mountains and is also a gateway to Hatu Peak, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape.
Narkanda can be particularly attractive to people who enjoy trekking, mountain views and less crowded destinations.
Best for: Trekking, mountain views and longer getaways.
7. Tara Devi – Temple and Mountain Views
Tara Devi is located close to Shimla and is known for the Tara Devi Temple, situated on a hill overlooking the surrounding landscape.
The temple is an important religious attraction and the surrounding area also offers beautiful mountain views.
Tara Devi can easily be included in a trip to Shoghi because of its location.
Best for: Temple visits, peaceful surroundings and mountain views.
8. Chail – Forests and a Relaxed Getaway
Chail is a great option for travellers who want to spend more time surrounded by forests and nature.
The area is known for attractions including the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary and its peaceful mountain environment. It is better suited for a longer getaway rather than a quick sightseeing trip from Shimla.
Best for: Nature lovers, families and weekend trips.
Places to Visit Near Shimla at a Glance
| Place | Best For |
|---|---|
| Shoghi | Peaceful mountain stays |
| Kufri | Families and activities |
| Mashobra | Nature and quiet stays |
| Naldehra | Nature and golf |
| Fagu | Scenic views and peaceful surroundings |
| Narkanda | Mountains and trekking |
| Tara Devi | Temple and mountain views |
| Chail | Forests and longer getaways |
Which Place Near Shimla Should You Visit?
The best destination depends on what kind of experience you want.
For a peaceful stay: Shoghi or Mashobra
For families: Kufri
For nature: Naldehra or Fagu
For trekking and mountain views: Narkanda
For a temple visit: Tara Devi
For forests and wildlife: Chail
Why Choose Shoghi?
If you want to experience the mountains while staying away from the busiest parts of Shimla, Shoghi is a great option.
The area offers a quieter atmosphere, scenic surroundings and convenient access to Shimla and nearby attractions.
For travellers planning to stay in the area, The Stone Age – Shoghi offers a boutique mountain stay surrounded by the hills of Himachal Pradesh.
Explore Shoja on Your Himachal Trip
If your trip includes destinations beyond Shimla, Shoja is another peaceful mountain destination worth exploring.
Before planning your itinerary, check our guide to Best Places to Visit in Shoja, Himachal Pradesh for ideas on places to see and things to experience.
This can help you plan a trip that combines the Shimla region with quieter destinations in the surrounding mountains.
Best Time to Visit Places Near Shimla
The Shimla region can be visited throughout the year, but each season offers a different experience.
March to June
The weather is generally pleasant and suitable for sightseeing, road trips and outdoor activities.
July to September
The monsoon brings greenery and mist to the hills. However, travellers should check the local weather and road conditions before travelling.
October to February
The weather becomes colder and some higher areas may experience snowfall. Winter is a good choice if you want to experience the colder side of the Himalayas.
Where to Stay Near Shimla
Choosing the right location can make a big difference to your Himachal trip.
If you prefer staying away from the crowded city centre while remaining close to Shimla, Shoghi is worth considering.
You can explore The Stone Age – Shoghi for a peaceful mountain stay.
For travellers continuing towards Shoja, you can also explore Sojha Hills and plan your stay around your travel route.
Plan Your Shimla Getaway
Shimla is more than just the Mall Road and popular city attractions. Exploring nearby destinations such as Shoghi, Kufri, Mashobra, Naldehra, Fagu and Narkanda can give you a more relaxed and varied Himachal experience.
Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic escape or a peaceful mountain trip, there are plenty of places to explore around Shimla.
If you want a quieter base for your trip, discover The Stone Age – Shoghi and enjoy the mountains away from the busiest parts of Shimla