Shimla, the capital city made by the British raj as a summer getaway and one of the most famous hill stations in India has more to offer than what meets an eye. With dense forests, high mountains and beautiful valleys surrounding the entire city of Shimla, you have a number of trekking trails there suitable for an amateur and veteran hiker equally. Whether you are looking for a light stroll through pine woods or the trek of rigorous height amidst higher ranges and valleys, treks in Shimla lets one discover its natural grandeur.
In this post, we shall take a dive into some of the best treks around Shimla that will be an amazing ride to adventures with nature and peace at their side.
1. Chandernahan Trek
One of the most amazing treks near Shimla, arguably the best destination out of all the others here is The Chandernahan Trek. Chandernahan is known for its natural glacial lakes that are situated in the Rohru area and serve as the headwaters of the river Pabbar. The journey starts from the beautiful village of Janglikh, through the trail, you explore grasslands (locally known as Thach), alpine forests & picturesque landscapes.
One of the most pristine as well as virgin region in Himalayan range surrounded with heavy snow masses is Chandernahan, which has been the key attraction for this trek where it not only extends an exciting waterfall but also engulfs a source of very rare crystal clear natural water ponds (lakes). Getting to the lakes involves hiking that is not too strenuous but includes some stellar views of nearby peaks and valleys.
Key Highlights:
Challenge Level: Medium to High
Distance: 30 km (round trip)
Duration: 3 – 4 days
Most ideal Time to Visit: May-October
Highlights: The waterfall Chandernahan and the glacial lakes of that name, Pabbar Valley viewpoints and colourful wildflowers in early summer. The peaceful scenery and high altitude lakes make it an idyllic getaway from the everyday grind for everybody.
2. Shali Tibba Trek
Shali Tibba Trek Another trek that will not disappoint you when it comes to the Shimla region. A clear view of the vast Himalayan range from the top of this altitude, which is 9423 feet above it. The expedition begins from the Khatnol village, located about 35 km away from Shimla and marks a trek through lush green covers of Deodar and Pine forests. As you climb, the trail will open up to large valley basins around you and snow covered mountain tops.
Key Highlights:
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Distance: 12 km (round trip)
Duration: 5–6 hours
Nest Operating Time: March — October
Tourist sites: The top temple of Shali Mata is religious then also giving panoramic sights from the highest onto the surrounding mountains and lower valley at Kinnaur Kailash range.
3. Churdhar Trek
The Churdhar Trek, is named after the Churdhar peak (also known as Chur Chandni) which is the highest peak in outer Himalayas with an elevation of 12,000 feet. This is a perfect trek for adventurers who are looking to challenge themselves. The trail starts from Sarain village and winds through forests, alpine meadows and rocky stretches. The reward? Panoramic views from 360 degrees of the hillsides and distant mountain ranges.
Key Highlights:
Skill Level: Intermediate to Hard
Distance: 20 km (one way)
Duration: 2 days
Recommended Time to Visit: May to October
Attractions: This peak has views of the Badrinath range, Kedarnath and on a clear day you can even see Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary with musk deer and Himalayan monal.
4. Karol Tibba Trek
4) Karol Tibba Trek- This is one of the short but beautiful treks around Shimla. Starting from Solan which is 45 km from Shimla, it is the best selection for beginners and people in search of a lazy day hike. This site provides breathtaking views of the Solan valley, at an altitude of around 7,000 feet. The Karol Cave (which is assumed to be one of the oldest in the region and also has mythological import from the epic Mahabharata) lies on your way up to the summit.
Key Highlights:
Level: Easy to Moderate
Distance: 6–8 km (round trip)
Duration: 3–4 hours
When to go: March through November
Highlights: The ancient and holy Karol Cave(2837 m) enroute and the Solan Panoramic.
5. Tara Devi Temple Trek
Tara Devi Temple Trek: Short and sweet, Tara Mata Mandir or the beautiful walk to the temple of Tara mata offers a good view and a spiritual experience. Tara Devi railway station or Tarav Hill is the place where this trail starts. It is an easy trek, great for a family. Once here they lock up their baggage, secure their rooms and go out into the verandah or balcony, depending on what is attached to the room, with a book in one hand and some chai in another — to this view. Navigating back up again would be full of cinematic-movie panning shots: snow capped Shimla, verdant Shivalik ranges where some far flung cloud might make an appearance serendipitously (!!!); bushes below are cut at mid level so there is nothing obscuring your view (also dangerously introducing
Key Highlights:
Difficulty Level: Easy
Distance: 5 km (round trip)
Duration: 2–3 hours
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year (Avoid monsoon months)
Places of Interest: The ancient Tara Devi Temple, built during the Sen Dynasty period offers religious peace and splendid views to its visitors.
6. Hatu Peak Trek
Hatu Peak Trek: Hatu peak trek is one of the serene Indra and Lord Rama had passed that area in ancient times The trek is about 8 km from Narkanda (60 kms biggest city). Thousands and millions of tall trees, you can almost hear the whispers of these ancient woods on #Shimla Junga trek from Hatu Peak! While the trek traverses oak, cedar and fir forests along the trail side during early summer you will find wildflowers glancing at you with colour rich flowers.
Key Highlights:
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Distance: 14 km (round trip)
Duration: 5 – 6 hours
Average Time: April – November
Major Attraction: Hatu Mata Temple on the top & View of Kinner Kailash & Swargarohini ranges.
7. Mashobra: Craignano Trek
Mashobra to Craignano TrekA popular trekking experience for those who are looking at a rather short and less demanding trek. Located at a distance of about 13 km in continuation from Shimla, the Craignano Trek takes you through apple orchards and pine forests over views so mind boggling that even nature would get jealous. The highlight of the trek is actually Craignano, famous for its Italian-style villa.
Key Highlights:
Difficulty Level: Easy
Distance: 4 km (round trip)
Duration: 2–3 hours
Best Time: April to October
Highlights: Craignano villa and the serene ambience with apple orchards and fresh woodlands around.
8. Kufri – Fagu Trek
Kufri to Fagu Trek — Easy for Beginners — Best one to start with. Kufri may be a short drive away from Shimla at 16 km, but trek to the hamlet of Fagu for an escape into total solitude. The journey runs through meadows and forested areas displaying amazing views of distant snow-capped peaks.
Key Highlights:
Difficulty Level: Easy
Distance: 7 km (one way)
Duration: 3 – 4 hours
Ideal time to visit: October to March
Highlights: Unbelievable sights of this Himalayan and friendly village air from Fagu make this trip a wonderful getaway.
Conclusion
From easy, spiritual walks (Tara Devi Temple Trek) To high-altitude treks (Chandernahan and Churdhar), Shimla is a trekker’s paradise offering trails suitable to all sorts of adventurers. These treks offer an incredible chance to get up close with the beautiful terrain of Himachal Pradesh, explore some of its lesser-known facets and feel one with nature.
The next time you plan a Shimla trip, go beyond popular tourist spots and discover the beautiful treks for an adventurous journey with stunning views that will be remembered forever. Happy trekking!
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