There are numerous adventure activities in Shimla that must be included in your Himachal tour package. If you are someone who is seeking adrenaline rush in their life, then the “Queen of Hill Stations,” is the best place to visit in Himachal Pradesh.
Weather you are water baby or want to glide in the air, there are many places to visit in Shimla where you can try all. Paragliding, river rafting, ice skating, skiing, mountain biking, camping, or trekking are some of the adventure things to do in Shimla.
For all the water lover you can partake in river rafting or still water activities like kayaking or canoeing with your friends and family. If you are snow lover, then you can participate in Ice skating, skiing, snow tubing or heli skiing.
All the mountain explorer, there are various summer adventure in Shimla like trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing, ziplining or camping. There are some of the other notable activities also which you must try like toy train ride, golfing, hiking and more.
Want to know all the information about these activities? Let’s find out all the details about these must-try adventure sports to do in Shimla in this WanderOn’s blog.
Water Enthusiast – Adventure Activities in Shimla
Kayaking is one of the most serene yet thrilling adventure activities in Shimla, perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. This water sport lets you glide through calm streams and rivers, offering an immersive way to explore Shimla's hidden gems. As one of the trending adventure activities in Shimla, it’s ideal for both beginners and pros seeking Shimla thrilling experiences during the summer adventure Shimla season.
- Kayaking in Shimla Ideal for: Friends, youth, and adults
- Best Time for Kayaking in Shimla: March to June
- Cost for Kayaking in Shimla: INR 1,000 - 3,000 per person
- Location for Kayaking in Shimla: Sutlej River at Tattapani
- Stay Options near Kayaking in Shimla: Hotels, cottages, and resorts in Shimla
- Difficulty Level of Kayaking in Shimla: Moderate
- Tip for Kayaking in Shimla: Check the weather and water conditions before your outing.
2. Canoeing on Sutlej River
Canoeing is among the more peaceful yet engaging adventure things to do in Shimla, allowing travellers to soak in the natural beauty of Himachal Pradesh’s water bodies. Ideal for a laid-back afternoon, it's one of the lesser-known adventures to do in Shimla, perfect for couples and families. A popular pick for outdoor adventure activities in Shimla, especially during warm weather, it blends relaxation with exploration.
- Canoeing in Shimla Ideal for: Adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, groups of friends, and families
- Best Time for Canoeing in Shimla: March to May or June
- Cost for Canoeing in Shimla: ₹700 to ₹2000 per person
- Location for Canoeing in Shimla: Sutlej River
- Stay Options near Canoeing in Shimla: hotels, resorts, and homestays
- Difficulty Level of Canoeing in Shimla: Difficult
- Tip for Canoeing in Shimla: Water activities can be affected by weather and water levels.
Also Read: Haunted Places In Shimla: Uncovering The Mysterious Land
3. River rafting in Tattapani, Shimla
River rafting in Tattapani, Shimla, offers breathtaking scenery and numerous streams and water bodies, making it perfect for water activities. One of the popular adventure activities in Shimla is river rafting, enjoyed by youth and adults seeking excitement. Participants use an inflatable rubber dinghy for this activity, with the cost varying based on its duration. The preferred route is from Chabba to river rafting in Tattapani, Shimla
- River rafting in Tattapani, Shimla Ideal for: friends, youth and adults
- Best Time for River rafting in Tattapani, Shimla: March to June, October to February
- Cost for River rafting in Tattapani, Shimla: 1,500 INR per person for a stretch of 15KM. The raft can also be booked by a single person, which would cost 6,000 INR.
- Location for River rafting in Tattapani, Shimla: Chabba to Tattapani
- Stay Options near River rafting in Tattapani, Shimla: hotels, cottages
- Difficulty Level of River rafting in Tattapani, Shimla: Moderate
- Tip for River rafting in Tattapani, Shimla: Follow all the instructions.
4. Fishing at Sangla Valley
Fishing is one of the top adventure activities in Shimla because it has many shallow streams. It’s known as ‘Angler’s Paradise’ and is famous for Rainbow and Brown, the best sport fish in the world. Sangla Valley in Shimla is also popular for its abundance of trout, making it a favourite among those seeking peaceful yet exciting adventure games in Shimla. One of the best spots for fishing is Rohru, located in Pabbar Valley, followed by many others, ideal for those exploring lesser-known adventures to do in Shimla.
- Fishing in Shimla Ideal for: Friends, adults
- Best Time for Fishing in Shimla: March to June
- Cost for Fishing in Shimla: 400 INR onwards
- Location for Fishing in Shimla: Rohru near Pabbar Valley, Tikri, Dhamvari, Seema, Mandil
- Stay Options near Fishing in Shimla: Cottages, camps, hotels
- Difficulty Level of Fishing in Shimla: Easy
- Tip for Fishing in Shimla: Take your equipment or rent it
Also Read: 12 Best Resorts And Hotels In Shimla | Luxury Stays
Snow Lover – Winter Sports in Shimla
Snow tubing is a fun-filled winter adventure in Shimla where you slide down snowy slopes on an inflatable tube. It’s safe, exciting, and doesn’t need any special skills, just sit and enjoy the ride! Great for kids and adults, it’s one of the best adventure activities in Shimla during snowfall.
- Snow tubing in Shimla is Ideal for: Families with children, Beginners, Groups of friends
- Best Time for Snow Tubing in Shimla: December to February/March
- Cost for Snow Tubing in Shimla: ₹400 - ₹700 per person
- Location for Snow Tubing in Shimla: Kufri, Mashobra, Naldehra
- Difficulty Level of Snow Tubing in Shimla: Very Easy
- Tip for Snow Tubing in Shimla: During peak season, the snow tubing spots can get crowded, so arriving earlier in the day can give you more uninterrupted fun.
Ice skating is a popular Shimla winter adventure sport which you must try! You can enjoy it from December to February when it snows. The ice skating rink is near Mall Road and has a beautiful view. It’s open to everyone, even if you’ve never skated before, making it one of the best adventure things to do in Shimla in winter. You can rent skates and get lessons there. It’s a great experience to skate surrounded by the Himalayas and the festive atmosphere of Shimla.
- Ice Skating in Shimla Ideal for: Youth, adults
- Best Time for Ice Skating in Shimla: October to February
- Cost for Ice Skating in Shimla: 100 INR to 500 INR
- Location for Ice Skating in Shimla: Near Mall Road
- Stay Options near Ice Skating in Shimla: Resorts, Hotels
- Difficulty Level of Ice Skating in Shimla: Moderate
- Tip for Ice Skating in Shimla: Take skating classes
Skiing at Mahasu Ridge and Hatu Peak near Shimla offers exciting experiences with stunning views of the Himalayas. Mahasu Ridge is great for beginners and intermediate skiers with gentle slopes and panoramic views. It’s a perfect place to learn and practice skiing while enjoying the peaceful snowy landscape, making it a favourite winter adventure and a Shimla attraction.
Hatu Peak, on the other hand, has more challenging slopes that attract advanced skiers looking for exhilarating runs and breathtaking scenery. Its higher altitude means longer skiing seasons, usually from December to March, which adds to its appeal among fans of Shimla winter adventure sports. Both places offer unforgettable skiing adventures in Shimla with opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty and excitement of the Himalayas.
- Skiing is Ideal For: Youth, adults
- Best Time for Skiing in Shimla: January to March
- Cost for Skiing in Shimla: INR 300 to 500 per person
- Location for Skiing in Shimla: Mahasu Ridge, Hattu Peak
- Stay Options near Skiing: Cottages, Tents
- Difficulty Level of Skiing: Moderate to Difficult
- Tip for Skiing in Shimla: Follow all the instructions
Suggested Read: Top Eateries in Shimla: Places to Eat in Shimla
Heli-skiing is a thrilling adventure activity in Shimla in which a helicopter transports skiers and snowboarders to remote, untouched slopes that are inaccessible by other means. The pristine snowfields and high-altitude peaks of Shimla provide ideal conditions for heli-skiing, attracting experienced snow sports enthusiasts looking for fresh powder and challenging descents. These trips are usually organised during the winter months, making it one of the most extreme Shimla winter adventure sports.
Heli-skiing in Shimla combines heart-pounding action with the serene beauty of the Himalayan wilderness, creating an unforgettable experience for adventurers seeking the ultimate skiing thrill. The slopes of Narkanda and Kufri are the best places for indulging in this sport while enjoying the natural charm of winter adventure in Shimla.
- Heli-skiing in Shimla Ideal for: Youth and adults
- Best Time for Heli-skiing in Shimla: January to February
- Cost for Heli-skiing in Shimla: Starts from 11,00,000 INR
- Location for Heli-skiing in Shimla: Narkanda, Kufri
- Stay Options near Heli-skiing in Shimla: Hotels, resorts
- Difficulty Level of Heli-skiing in Shimla: Moderate to Difficult
- Tip for Heli-skiing in Shimla: Follow all the instructions
Also Read: 13 Must-Try Best Local Food in Shimla: A Culinary Adventure
Mountain Explorer – Outdoor Activities in Shimla Hills
There are great opportunities for trekking in Shimla, one of the best adventure activities in Shimla. You can enjoy challenging treks or take leisurely strolls through the forests. A relaxing trek can be found at Jakhoo Temple, the highest point in the city, which is often listed among the best trekking in Shimla routes. Another recommended trek is the Banjar Valley Trek, which showcases the magical beauty of Shimla and stands out among the top adventure things to do in Shimla for nature and fitness lovers.
- Trekking in Shimla Ideal for: friends, youth and family
- Best Time for Trekking in Shimla: March to June, October to February
- Cost for Trekking in Shimla: Starts from 1,650 INR
- Location for Trekking in Shimla: Jakhoo Temple, Chadwick Falls, Kamna Devi Temple, Banjar Valley Trek
- Stay Options near Trekking in Shimla: Camps, cottages
- Difficulty Level of Trekking in Shimla: Easy to Difficult
- Tip for Trekking in Shimla: Carry your trekking shoes and comfortable clothes.
Mountain cycling/ Mountain biking is one of the exciting adventure activities in Shimla through scenic trails amidst the Himalayan foothills. Shimla and its surrounding areas have a range of terrain, from easy slopes to challenging mountain paths, suitable for cyclists of all skill levels.
You can explore dense forests, charming villages, and breathtaking viewpoints while enjoying the serene beauty of Shimla’s natural landscapes. These mountain biking Shimla trails offer thrilling descents and satisfying climbs, making it a favourite among youth and adults looking for adventures to do in Shimla.
You can rent a mountain bike for 10 hours, starting from 9 am to 7 pm. Rental services are available and local operators offer guided tours, allowing mountain cycling enthusiasts to experience thrilling descents and satisfying climbs.
- Mountain Biking in Shimla Ideal for: Friends, Couples and adults
- Best Time for Mountain Biking in Shimla: March to Mat, September to October
- Cost for Mountain Biking in Shimla: Starts from INR 200 per person and is charged as per hour
- Location for Mountain Biking in Shimla: Cart Road
- Stay Options near Mountain Biking in Shimla: Cottages, Hotels
- Difficulty Level of Mountain Biking in Shimla: Moderate to Difficult
- Tip for Mountain Biking in Shimla: Be careful and maintain a moderate speed
Hiking ranks among the top adventure activities in Shimla, offering a perfect blend of scenic beauty, exploration, and physical challenge. Many hiking trails that wind through lush forests and meadows with wildflowers, ideal for those looking for relaxed outdoor adventure activities in Shimla. The trails also offer panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains.
Jakhoo Hill, Glen Forest, and Chadwick Falls are some of the routes that are perfect for both nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts looking for adventures to do in Shimla. Many of these hiking trails also reveal their cultural richness, blending well into your list of things to do in Shimla adventure.
- Hiking in Shimla Ideal for: Friends, couples and adults
- Best Time for Hiking in Shimla: March to May, October to November
- Cost for Hiking in Shimla: No such cost, only equipment cost (100 INR onwards)
- Location for Hiking in Shimla: Jakhoo Hill, Glen forest, Chadwick Falls
- Stay Options near Hiking in Shimla: Camps, cottages
- Difficulty Level of Hiking in Shimla: Easy to Difficult
- Tip for Hiking in Shimla: Carry a water bottle and don’t go to unknown places
Shimla offers a variety of activities for adventure enthusiasts. Rock climbing is one of the best adventure activities in Shimla. This thrilling adventure attracts climbers to its rugged terrain and scenic surroundings. The natural rock formations around Mashobra and Chail make it a top choice among adventure games in Shimla.
Some popular spots include the rocks near Chadwick Falls, one of the amazing places to visit in Shimla in one day as well as areas around Mashobra and Chail, and other cliffs around the region, ideal for things to do in Shimla for adventure seekers. Climbers can enjoy scaling cliffs and boulders while admiring panoramic views of the Himalayan foothills.
Whether for a day trip or a multi-day expedition, Shimla promises an exhilarating experience amidst its natural beauty and challenging rock formations. Guided by experienced instructors and equipped with safety gear, climbers can safely enjoy this exciting activity.
- Rock Climbing in Shimla Ideal for: Youth, adults
- Best Time for Rock Climbing in Shimla: June to September
- Cost for Rock Climbing in Shimla: 400 INR onwards
- Location for Rock Climbing in Shimla: Chail, Mashobra, Chadwick Falls
- Stay Options near Rock Climbing in Shimla: Camps, cottages
- Difficulty Level of Rock Climbing in Shimla: Moderate to Difficult
- Tip for Rock Climbing in Shimla: Follow all the instructions.
Also Read: 19 Best Photography Spots in Shimla: Best Locations for Photographers
13. Camping Under the Stars
Camping under the dazzling starlit sky, surrounded by majestic mountains and tranquil streams. Shimla is the ultimate destination for a thrilling camping adventure, offering the perfect blend of nature and excitement. You can experience the cosy ambience with crackling bonfires and the chance to connect with your loved ones in a truly magical setting.
Camping in Shimla isn’t just an activity; it’s an unforgettable adventure activity in Shimla that will leave you in awe of the stunning natural surroundings. It is also one of the most peaceful yet exciting outdoor adventure activities in Shimla for families and friends. With a variety of camping options across Jakhoo and Summer Hills, it ranks high on the list of adventure things to do in Shimla during both summer and winter months.
- Camping in Shimla Ideal for: Friends and family
- Best Time for Camping in Shimla: April to August, December to January
- Cost for Camping in Shimla: 2599 INR – 11997 INR
- Location for Camping in Shimla: Jakhoo hill, Summer hills, Bantony hill, Observatory hill, Elysium hill
- Stay Options near Camping in Shimla: Tents
- Difficulty Level for Camping in Shimla: Easy
- Tip for Camping in Shimla: Carry warm clothes and all other essentials.
Adventure Seeker – Extreme Adventure Sports in Shimla
Zip-lining offers an adventure activity in Shimla amidst the scenic beauty of the Himalayan foothills. Also known as flying fox, this sport involves sliding down a steel cable while harnessed to a pulley, delivering one of the most exhilarating adventure games in Shimla. This adventure activity in Shimla provides a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding landscapes.
Zip-lining in Shimla is typically offered at various adventure parks and resorts located in and around the city. These parks are nestled amidst forests, making the experience not only adventurous but also visually stunning. It is an ideal pick for those seeking Shimla's thrilling experiences and one of the most trending adventure activities in Shimla.
- Zip-lining in Shimla Ideal for: Kids, youth, family, friends
- Best Time for Zip-lining in Shimla: March to September
- Cost for Zip-lining in Shimla: INR 500 per person
- Location for Zip-lining in Shimla: Bemloi, Shimla
- Stay Options near Zip-lining in Shimla: Hotels, resorts
- Difficulty Level of Zip-lining in Shimla: Easy
- Tip for Zip-lining in Shimla: Follow all the rules of your instructor.
Paragliding offers an exhilarating experience, allowing you to glide through the sky like a carefree bird. It has become one of the most popular adventure activities in Shimla, providing an adrenaline rush for enthusiasts. The activity allows you to enjoy a 360-degree view of the beautiful landscape, making it a must for anyone seeking Shimla thrilling experiences. It requires less space for landing and is best suited for lighter winds.
- Paragliding in Shimla Ideal for: Youth, adults
- Best Time for Paragliding in Shimla: March to May, October to November
- Cost for Paragliding in Shimla: 2,500 INR per person for a tenure of 15 to 20 minutes
- Location for Paragliding in Shimla: Chail, Kufri, Naldehra
- Stay Options near Paragliding in Shimla: Cottages, Hotels, Resorts
- Difficulty Level of Paragliding in Shimla: Moderate to Difficult
- Tip for Paragliding in Shimla: Follow all the instructions.
Also Read: 17 Hill Stations in Himachal: Explore Beautiful Places in 2025
Shimla has beautiful views, making it perfect for nature lovers. One great way to explore the natural beauty is through a cycle tour. You can relax in green surroundings while cycling through Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary, but you need to get permission from the Wildlife Department first. During your cycle tour, you may encounter eagles, leopards, and foxes.
This peaceful ride is one of the underrated yet fulfilling adventure activities in Shimla, and also among the best outdoor adventure activities in Shimla for couples and adults. You can easily rent a cycle to explore the wildlife and spot various species such as deer, monkeys, and leopards, adding to your list of adventure things to do in Shimla.
- Cycle Tour in Shimla Ideal for: Friends, Couples, Adults
- Best Time for Cycle Tour in Shimla: March to May, September to October
- Cost for Cycle Tour in Shimla: INR 200 per cycle
- Location for Cycle Tour in Shimla: NH 22, Charabra Mashobra
- Stay Options near Cycle Tour in Shimla: Camps, Cottages
- Difficulty Level of Cycle Tour in Shimla: Moderate
- Tip for Cycle Tour in Shimla: Be safe on the road and maintain a moderate speed
Nature & Leisure Lover – Sightseeing & Relaxation in Shimla
The toy train ride from Kalka to Shimla is a must-do for every traveller. This UNESCO World Heritage experience takes you through 100+ tunnels, scenic valleys, pine forests, and old-world railway stations. Though not extreme, it's a peaceful and charming way to soak in Shimla's beauty. Among the most iconic adventure activities in Shimla, it's perfect for couples, families, and anyone who enjoys slow, scenic travel.
- Toy Train Ride in Shimla Ideal for: Families, History Enthusiasts, Couples
- Best Time for Toy Train Ride in Shimla: March to June
- Cost for Toy Train Ride in Shimla: ₹300- ₹630 per person
- Location for Toy Train Ride in Shimla: Kalka-Shimla Railway
- Stay Options near Toy Train Ride in Shimla: hotels, resorts, and guesthouses
- Difficulty Level of Toy Train Ride in Shimla: Very Easy
- Tip for Toy Train Ride in Shimla: Book tickets in advance.
18. Photography of Scenic Views
Taking photographs in Shimla can also be considered one of the more creative yet adventurous outdoor adventure activities in Shimla. Especially for photography enthusiasts who love capturing moments in dramatic landscapes.
From colonial-era architecture and bustling markets to lush green valleys and snow-clad peaks, Shimla’s landscapes provide ample opportunities for capturing unique and picturesque adventure things to do in Shimla. Popular photography spots in Shimla include Ridge Road, Mall Road, Jakhoo Hill, Chadwick Falls, and nearby viewpoints like Kufri and Mashobra.
Suggested Read: 6-Day Captivating Himachal Tour: Explore Shimla and Manali’s Beauty
Naldehra boasts one of the oldest and most scenic golf courses in India, set amidst lush forests of deodar trees at an altitude of 2,200 metres (7,200 feet). The 18-hole golf course was designed in 1920 by Lord Curzon, the then Viceroy of India, who was captivated by the natural beauty of the location. Playing golf in Naldehra is not just relaxing, it's one of the most elegant adventure sports in Shimla, especially for those who appreciate a blend of nature and precision.
This activity offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it one of the most underrated adventure things to do in Shimla during warmer months and a refined alternative to traditional adventure games in Shimla.
- Golfing in Shimla Ideal for: Friends, Youth, Adults
- Best Time for Golfing in Shimla: March and June
- Cost for Golfing in Shimla: INR 1000 per person
- Location for Golfing in Shimla: NGC, Naldehra
- Stay Options near Golfing in Shimla: Hotel, resorts
- Difficulty Level of Golfing in Shimla: Difficult
- Tip for Golfing in Shimla: Take golf coaching
