Things to Do Near Shimla 2026: 20 Best Day Trips and Activities

20 Best Things to Do Near Shimla in 2026: Day Trips, Activities and Hidden Spots

Shimla is the gateway to a ring of outstanding day trips and activities within 50 km. The city itself has The Mall Road, The Ridge and Jakhu Temple. But the best experiences near Shimla are the mountain destinations just outside the city, each accessible within 30 to 90 minutes.

Near Shimla: In-City Activities (0-5 km)

1. Jakhu Temple

The most iconic stop near Shimla. The Jakhu Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman sits at 2,455 m, a 30-45 minute walk from The Ridge. A ropeway also connects The Ridge to the temple (Rs 250 return). At the top: 108-foot Hanuman statue, panoramic Himalayan views and hundreds of resident monkeys. Open 6 AM to 8 PM. See the complete Jakhu Temple visitor guide.

2. The Mall Road and The Ridge

Shimla most famous promenade. The Ridge connects Christ Church, the Gaiety Theatre and the open-air market. The Mall Road runs parallel with restaurants, bakeries and shops. Best time to visit: morning (before noon) or evening (5-8 PM). No vehicles allowed on The Mall, making it a completely pedestrian experience.

3. Shimla State Museum

Housed in a colonial building near The Ridge. Excellent collection of Himachali folk art, Pahari miniature paintings, textiles and archaeological finds. Entry Rs 10. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 5 PM. Often overlooked but worth 90 minutes for anyone interested in Himachal culture.

13 km from Shimla: Kufri

4. Kufri Fun World (Skiing and Snow Activities)

The most popular day trip from Shimla in winter. Kufri is 13 km from Shimla (30-40 minute drive). Kufri Fun World has skiing, snow tubing and yak rides in winter (December to February). In summer: horse riding, zip line and a small amusement park. Open 9 AM to 5 PM. Skiing costs Rs 400 to Rs 600 per session including instructor.

5. Himalayan Nature Park (Kufri Zoo)

A 17-acre wildlife sanctuary in Kufri with snow leopards, Himalayan bears, pheasants and red pandas. Entry Rs 50 adults, Rs 25 children. Open 8 AM to 5 PM. The full visitor guide covers the complete animal list and best viewing times. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours.

6. Mahasu Peak

The highest accessible viewpoint near Kufri at 2,700 m. Accessible by horse (Rs 400-600 return) or 45-minute hike. On clear days, views include the Badrinath and Kedarnath mountain ranges. Best in winter when snow adds drama and summer mornings before clouds build up.

25 km from Shimla: Naldehra

7. Naldehra Golf Course

One of the oldest golf courses in India, established by Lord Curzon in 1905. Set among deodar forests at 2,250 m. Non-golfers can walk the course. Green fees: Rs 800 to Rs 1,200 for 18 holes. 25 km from Shimla (45-50 minutes). Naldehra also has a good picnic area at Shaily Peak viewpoint.

8. Tattapani Hot Springs

Natural sulphur hot springs on the banks of the Sutlej River, 51 km from Shimla (90 minutes). Best visited October to March. Bathing in the thermal pools (natural and commercial) is the main activity. River rafting on the Sutlej is available nearby (15 km stretch).

45 km from Shimla: Chail

9. Chail Palace

Built by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala in 1891 after being banished from Shimla by the British Viceroy. Now a heritage hotel. The palace, cricket ground and temple make for an excellent half-day visit. Chail is 45 km from Shimla (1.5 hours). The drive through dense cedar forests is itself a highlight.

10. Chail Cricket Ground

The highest cricket ground in the world at 2,444 m. No longer used for international matches but the setting is extraordinary. Open to visitors for a walk around the ground. Surreal experience: a cricket pitch surrounded by Himalayan peaks on all sides.

11. Chail Wildlife Sanctuary

185 sq km of protected forest with barking deer, Himalayan black bear, goral and sambar. Entry by permit from the forest office in Chail (Rs 100 per person). Best visited early morning or late afternoon. A guided nature walk of 3-4 km covers the most active wildlife zones.

More Day Trips and Activities Near Shimla

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Written by the team at Kufri Heritage Resort & Spa, a family-run five-star resort in Kufri since 1984, 13 km above Shimla. We check these routes, prices and timings ourselves because our own guests ask about them. Rooms start at Rs 6,999 a night. Ask us anything about your trip.