Shimla Attractions
The glade of Sipur lies below the suburb of Mashobra and there is a beautiful wood and grey-state temple on this idyllic spot. A some what tougher trek can be continued to the Shali peak which at 3000m is the highest in the area. A sylvan retreat, 12km away, is Mashobra. The beauty of forests and landscape here has attracted many and so this little suburban village is steadily growing.
If you are looking for something a little common place, then head up to the President’s Retreat in Chharabra and walk down to the Mashobra bazaar, or take a long drive along the Bekhalty road through thick woods. Chharabra is a small village situated approximately 8250 feet or 2514 m above sea level, 13 km from Shimla on National Highway 22 (Hindustan-Tibet Road). The village is surrounded by evergreen pine forests, and has magnificent views of the Himalayas.
Under a thicket of deodar trees, Naldehra has the nine-hole par 68 golf course that was laid out by the British Viceroy of India, Lord Curzon. He was so enchanted by the spot that he often camped here for days on end and communicated with Viceregal Lodge at Shimla by means of a heliograph. Lord Curzon, Viceroy of India (1899 to 1905) was so enchanted by the beauty of the place that he named his daughter Alexandra Naldehra. Himachal Tourism Hotel 'Golf Glade' looks after the accommodation and food of the visitors to this par-68 golf ground and pleasure spot.
Tattapani (51 kms) has hot sulphur springs that are known for their healing powers. Hot water springs by the side of river Sutlej, are invigorating. These sulphur springs have curative powers too, so claim many. They attract people from far and near. The Shiv Cave lies only three kilometers from here. Tattapani offers a variety of sporting activities such as trekking, fishing and rafting.
Kufri is a destination in its own right, this is 16 km from Shimla and has long been famous for its ski slopes and fine views. Known for its ski runs Kufri, attracts the largest number of tourists who come to Shimla. It has a backdrop of peaks covered with snow and a small zoo. Yak-ride is added attraction. Along the ridge shaded by tall trees runs a road to Chail, yet another tourist spot in solan District. The Himalayan Nature Park is also at Kufri and the area has a fair amount of options fro family entertainment.
Fagu (22 Km) is a tiny village that rests astride a mountain saddle along the Hindustan Tibet Road. The Location gives it a rare range of views that encompass both the northern and southern valleys as well as the snow clad peaks of the Greater Himalaya. In he open patches, the Valleys hold tiny hamlets, orchards and neatly terraced fields. Quiet and peaceful, 22 km away, it is a fine resort far from the madding crowd. It has a Rest House and Tourists bungalow overlooking the Giri valley.
Narkanda lies 64 Km from Shimla and has a choice of ski-runs, thick woods and superb views, The peak of Hatu rises over this small town and is covered with thick woods. The views from the top are quite amazing. Surrounded by Deodar and spruce forests, 64 km. away, it has a choice of ski runs-beginners, advanced and slalom. It is a leisure destination but a hike to Hattu peak (3300m) can be challenging and exciting. On the Hindustan Tibet Road, Narkanda offers spectacular views of snow ranges. An uphill trek through Deodar and Pine woods leads to Hatu Peak (8 Km from Shimla). Ancient temple of Hatu Mata is alive with skiers. In winters short skiing courses are organized by HPTDC.
Near Narkanda lies Himachal’s apple growing heartland and the settlements of Thanedar and Kotgarh. It was in this belt that the Quaker, Samuel Evans Strokes introduced the American varieties of apple that went on to transform the economy of the area and today, make this a delightful area to visit. Samuel Evans Stokes (later Satyanand Stokes) brought 'Red Delicious' and 'Golden Delicious' variety of apple saplings here in the early twentieth century from Pennsylvania and with those saplings brought prosperity for the area. Beautiful houses, bountiful apple orchards, educated people and highest per capita income in South East Asia through horticulture are matters of delight.
Arki (52 Km) was the capital of the erstwhile princely state of Baghal. The old palace has some fine wall paintings and is also a hotel. There are many old temples in the area - one of the interesting ones is that of Luturu Mahadev that lies in a deep cave accessed by a sharp climb. Picturesque picnic spots are there at Kaliseli, Brahmpukar, Bari Dhar and Ghanagu Ghat. Gurkhas trying to invade the city used Arki Fort as their stronghold during the Gurkha Wars that went on till 1815-16. The fort offers both the historical legends and artistic creations to the tourists. It is built on the hillside, in terraces. Rana Shiv Sharan Singh laid down the foundation of the famous Diwankhana of the Arki Fort Palace in the year 1830. It presents a fusion of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles and shows heavy influence of Rajasthan. This Beautiful Arki fort is now in ruins and is the private property descendants of the erstwhile ruler, Raja Rajendra Singh. A part of the fort, which is still in good condition, has been converted into a heritage resort and its well-maintained rooms reflect its royal grandeur and splendor. It provides excellent views of the snow-capped mountain ranges and glimpse of famous hill stations like Shimla, Kasauli and Subathu.
Carignano near Mashobra was the suburban residence of the celebrated Italian confectioner and photo-grapher, the Chevalier Peliti. It is a Beautiful to watch. Carignanao has a guest house and natural beauty.
The Fruit Research Station is close to Carignano and has some unusual tree varieties. Fruit Research Station once belonged to Mr. Coutts, an eminent horticulturist. Floriculturists may purchase potted or saplings of flowers here at reasonable rates.
Baggi and Khadrala lie along a section of the old Hindustan Tibet Road, near Narkanda, and are set in thick woods interspersed with apple orchards.
Junga(26 Kms ) has an old palace, the state police training center and the Ashwani stream. A hike trail through the villages of Mehli, Goshani and Chaakra leads from Shimla’s Kasumpti locality to Junga.
Dhami (28 Km) was the seat of the erstwhile princely state of the same name and lies just off the highway that leads from Shimla to Bilaspur, Mandi and Kullu. The remains of its old palace may still be seen. Its thick woods of Oak and deodar, were popular hunting grounds of the British viceroys.