A new adventure awaits. Here’s a treat for all the wanderlusts out there!Shimla is one of the most beautiful hill stations of Himachal Pradesh. It is famous for its stiff colonial charms, vibrant markets and splendid views of the Himalayas. However, other than the popularly explored places, there are so many hidden places in Shimla waiting to be discovered. Exploring these offbeat places in Shimla gives a very different and fresh experience for those who like to take a different path and go ahead to explore the unexplored.
That’s when you will be introduced to the beauty and the cultural background of Shimla, which is preserved in these seldom-visited spots. Just imagine that you can enjoy the stunning sight of the waterfalls hidden in the forests. You’d love the drive through the beautiful hamlets surrounded with apple orchards and you would be mesmerized by the feeling of being in the ancient temples sharing the story about a certain era. Be it lush greenery, adrenaline rush, or a serene environment that one may want, Shimla has perfect offbeat places just for you.
To make your journey even more of a pleasure, do not forget to have a look at the number of Himachal tour packages. These carefully planned packages are specially curated for you to get the most out of your trip to Shimla, to explore everything from the least crowded places to visiting offbeat Shimla at its best. Let the adventure begin!
Discovering Hidden Places in Shimla – Shimla Offbeat Travel Guide
1. Craignano Nature Park
Located at Mashobra, Craignano Nature Park is a relatively lesser-known place away from the hustle-bustle of Shimla. It was earlier a villa in Italy but has now transformed into a park providing a wonderful sight of green foliage, flowers and a serene feel hence making it the most beautiful off-beat destination near Shimla.
2. Chadwick Falls
Chadwick Falls, a few kilometres away from Shimla, remains an unexplored tourist destination in Shimla which is situated at a height of of 86 meters. Located in an area characterized by forests and steep hills, it’s an appealing place for nature lovers seeking solitude.
3. Tattapani
The place famous for the hot Sulfur springs is called Tattapani when one decides to make a halt in Shimla, this is a perfect place to spend a night. Situated on the edge of the river Sutlej, this place provides a good combination of tourism of active kind and leisure. Kii-Katsuragi hot springs are useful in the treatment of diseases and thus a centre of attraction.Suggested Read: Top 50 Best Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh
4. Narkanda
Narkanda is an off-beat location near Shimla, merely 60 kilometres away from your main destination where tourists get to view snow-clad mountains and apple gardens. Winter sports freaks get the best of this place when the weather is cold while in summer this makes the best centre for hikers and campers.
5. Kotkhai Palace
Kotkhai Palace is the royal offbeat Shimla destination that tourists visiting Shimla must visit for a taste of history and heritage. This palace was constructed in the 17th century and comprises typical Himachali architecture and throws light to the royal backgrounds of the area.
6. Shoghi
Shoghi is a small town situated near Shimla, which is an offbeat destination Shimla tourists often ignore. It is a very serene area located next to pine tree groves and some of the activities that one can undertake include – trekking, bird watching and camping. No doubt, Shoghi is one of the must visit places in Shimla. 7. Chail
It was the summer residence of the Maharaja of Patiala, a beautiful offbeat location near Shimla. This beautiful and relatively unknown place includes the world’s highest cricket stadium and a handsome palace. It is perfect for travellers who seek to avoid crowded places and be with nature.
8. Kiarighat
Kiarighat is a small village which is on the tourist route of the Kalka-Shimla highway and is relatively a calm place. This hidden place in Shimla is one of the best places to go for a retreat, leisure and strolls in the pine woods.
9. Hatkoti
Hatkoti is a place which is still an unexplored place in Shimla and is about 105 km away from the main destination. It’s a must-visit place because it has many old temples along with the mesmerizing beauty of nature. There is the Hateshwari Temple that is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is a major highlight here.
10. Barot
Barot is another off-beat destination near Shimla which gives a full adventurous and peaceful experience. Barot is the kind of place that is famous for getting some of the best trout fish. Barot is a perfect place for nature lovers.Suggested Read: Essential Travel Tips For Shimla: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
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Offbeat Things to Do in Shimla
Who doesn’t love surprises? Your Shimla offbeat travel diary needs to be adventurous and thrilling! So, get ready to explore a long list of offbeat experiences in Shimla that allows you to connect with cultural heritage and the region’s natural beauty.
1. Camping at Secluded Spots
Some of the good locations for camping are Narkanda, Shoghi and Kiarighat which are relatively away from the city but not in the interior. Offbeat Shimla destinations also include the kind of camping where tents are set up under the stars in the lap of nature.
2. Exploring Local Villages
Various localities such as Mashobra, Kotkhai, and Hatkoti offer a look into the native Himachali culture. Engaging with the indigenous people and getting to feel and taste their way of life is fulfilling.
3. Trekking and Nature Walks
There are several trekking and nature walk trails in and around Shimla. Stepping paths including the Shali Tibba trek also the Hatu Peak trek and those in Craignano Nature Park are ideal for adrenaline lovers.
4. Bird Watching in Shoghi
Shoghi, one of the southern districts of India, is a bird watcher’s delight. It’s a popular spot to enjoy activities in Shimla like bird watching as there are a variety of bird species at Shoghi. Beautiful Offbeat Places in Shimla for a Perfect Stay
1. Aamod at Shoghi
Aamod at Shoghi is an ‘Eco, Cultural and Nature’ resort located amid oak & pine Trees. It provides luxurious cottages and different types of adventurous activities thus it is the best place for a calm and exciting time.
2. Sterling Kufri
At the Sterling Kufri residing in the beautiful town of Kufri guests get an opportunity to capture the view of the Himalayas in winter. The centre offers comfortable accommodation, a number of leisure options, and some interesting sightseeing nearby. All this all together makes it a quite good option for a non-touristy stay in Shimla.
3. Narkanda Cottage
Narkanda Cottage is a perfect place for a homely feel and stay. Located at a distance of 9 kilometres from Shimla, this place is surrounded by apple trees and offers breathtaking views of the mighty Himalayas. It’s a perfect non-commercial and offbeat place to stay in Shimla.
4. Woodstock Resort, Shilon Bagh
Located in Shilon Bagh, Woodstock Resort is a peaceful haven with a beautiful view of mountains and valleys in the distance. The resort has nice and cosy stay options and great food. Along with that, the place has many more things to offer which makes it one of the best offbeat stay near Shimla.
5. Theog Himalayan Escape
Theog Himalayan Escape is a boutique resort which can be reached located 30 kilometres from Shimla up to Theog. The resort provides a rather quiet and comfortable stay. Possessing beautifully made cottages, and many other activities, it’s an excellent place for those people who would want a peaceful respite out of the usual tourist spot near Shimla.Suggested read: Top Photography Spots In Shimla: Explore Scenic Views And Cultural Sites
Offbeat Places Near Shimla for Day Trips
For those wishing to make the most of their trips and explore the wondrous offbeat places near Shimla for a day trip, here are some excellent recommendations for travel heads.
1. Kufri
Kufri is the nearest destination to Shimla located 16 km away from it. This place is famous for its view and adventure sports like skiing and tobogganing. Kufri Fun World which is an amusement park is much favorite among the families.
2. Fagu
Fagu is a small village near Kufri which has excellent views of valleys and snowy mountains. It is an excellent place for excursions to feel the calm and engage in nature trails.
3. Naldehra
Naldehra being a hill station situated near Shimla has the honour of having one of the oldest golf courses in India. It is suitable for a one-day trip to go golfing, horse riding, and even picnicking in the magnificent sceneries.
4. Tani Jubbar Lake
A little ahead of Narkanda is the Tani Jubbar Lake, which is comparatively less crowded and is suitable for a day’s outing. It lies in the region filled with cedars and is popular for having picturesque picnic and strolling space around the lake.Suggested Read: Top Eateries in Shimla: Places to Eat in Shimla
Conclusion
Shimla is a heavenly place for spending days in nature. All the beautiful off beat places in Shimla discussed in this blog are excellent spots to be on your next trip to Shimla. Be it exploring the charm of the mountainous region, or the fresh air blowing your hair, a trip to Shimla can be a recharge for your mind and body. Thus, the next time you plan a trip with family, friends or even your loved one, pack your bags and head on to the undiscovered gems of Shimla. So, what’s stopping you? Set your compass for adventure!
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