Shimla, the queen of hills, is surrounded by a treasure trove of destinations that are perfect for every kind of traveler. Whether you seek adventure, tranquility, or cultural immersion, these best places to visit near Shimla promise unforgettable experiences. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the most captivating tourist spots, distances from Shimla, best times to visit, nearby attractions, and must-do activities.
Kufri, a charming hill station, is among the best places to visit near Shimla for snow lovers and adventure seekers. Famous for its winter sports and panoramic views, Kufri transforms into a snowy wonderland from November to March. The Himalayan Nature Park and Mahasu Peak are must-visit attractions near Shimla, making Kufri an ideal destination for families and couples alike.
Distance: 14 km
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Nearby Attractions: Himalayan Nature Park, Mahasu Peak
Things to Do: Skiing, tobogganing, horse riding, hiking
Read More: Must-Visit Spots in Shimla In 2025
Chail is a serene destination near Shimla, renowned for its lush forests and the world’s highest cricket ground. The Chail Palace offers a glimpse into royal heritage, while the Chail wildlife sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers. It’s one of the best places to visit near Shimla for a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.
Distance: 44 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November
Nearby Attractions: Chail Palace, Chail Cricket Ground, Wildlife Sanctuary
Things to Do: Nature walks, heritage tours, wildlife spotting
Mashobra is a tranquil escape, perfect for those seeking calm and natural beauty. Surrounded by dense forests and apple orchards, it’s a favorite among trekkers and photographers. Mashobra stands out as one of the unexplored places near Shimla, offering solitude and scenic vistas.
Distance: 10 km
Best Time To Visit: April to June
Nearby Attractions: Reserve Forest Sanctuary, Craignano Nature Park
Things to Do: Trekking, camping, birdwatching
Narkanda is a winter paradise, popular for skiing and snowboarding. The drive to Hatu Peak rewards travelers with breathtaking Himalayan views. It is one of the best places to visit near Shimla for adventure enthusiasts and those looking to experience authentic Himachali culture.
Distance: 60 km
Best Time To Visit: December to March
Nearby Attractions: Hatu Peak, Tannu Jubbar Lake
Things to Do: Skiing, hiking, apple orchard tours
Kasauli is a quaint hill station near Shimla, known for its colonial charm and tranquil ambiance. The winding trails, misty forests, and old churches make it a top tourist spot near Shimla for leisurely exploration and relaxation.
Distance: 70 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November
Nearby Attractions: Gilbert Trail, Sunset Point, Christ Church
Things to Do: Nature walks, heritage exploration, shopping
Solan, often called the ‘Mushroom City of India’, is famous for its vibrant markets and religious sites. It’s one of the best places to visit near Shimla if you enjoy cultural experiences and wish to explore Himachal’s local flavors.
Distance: 45 km
Best Time To Visit: February to May, August to November
Nearby Attractions: Mohan Shakti Heritage Park, Shoolini Mata Temple
Things to Do: Temple visits, brewery tours, local markets
Jibhi is a hidden gem among the best places to visit near Shimla, offering untouched natural beauty and serenity. Its wooden cottages and pristine streams make it a favorite for backpackers and nature lovers seeking offbeat experiences.
Distance: 150 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November
Nearby Attractions: Jalori Pass, Serolsar Lake
Things to Do: Riverside camping, waterfall hikes, trout fishing
Theog is a peaceful hill station near Shimla, ideal for those looking to escape the bustle. Surrounded by Himalayan peaks, Theog is perfect for camping and leisurely walks through apple orchards, making it a wonderful addition to your list of places near Shimla to visit.
Distance: 32 km
Best Time To Visit: March to September
Nearby Attractions: Forest trails, apple orchards
Things to Do: Camping, trekking, photography
Tattapani is famous for its therapeutic hot springs and adventure activities. It’s one of the best places to visit near Shimla for rejuvenation and thrill, with river rafting on the Sutlej being a major draw for adventure lovers.
Distance: 51 km
Best Time To Visit: October to June
Nearby Attractions: Hot water springs, Sutlej River
Things to Do: River rafting, hot spring baths, fishing
Chindi, set in the scenic Karsog Valley, is a tranquil retreat known for its ancient temples and lush orchards. It’s among the unexplored places near Shimla, perfect for spiritual seekers and those craving solitude.
Distance: 90 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November
Nearby Attractions: Karsog Valley, temples
Things to Do: Temple tours, nature walks, orchard visits
Shoghi is a small hill station near Shimla, celebrated for its scenic beauty and fruit products. It’s a great spot for trekking and exploring old temples, making it one of the best places to visit near Shimla for a quick getaway.
Distance: 13 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November
Nearby Attractions: Tara Devi Temple, Kandaghat
Things to Do: Trekking, fruit picking, temple visits
Shoja is a picturesque village surrounded by dense forests and meadows. Its wooden temples and proximity to Jalori Pass make it a serene destination for nature lovers and trekkers looking for places to see around Shimla.
Distance: 110 km
Best Time To Visit: April to June
Nearby Attractions: Jalori Pass, Serolsar Lake
Things to Do: Hiking, birdwatching, photography
Nahan is a charming town known for its lakes and historic temples. It’s one of the best places to visit near Shimla for families and those interested in history and nature.
Distance: 85 km
Best Time To Visit: September to November, February to April
Nearby Attractions: Renuka Lake, Suketi Fossil Park
Things to Do: Boating, wildlife spotting, temple visits
Manali is a renowned hill station near Shimla, famous for its adventure sports and vibrant culture. Whether it’s paragliding in Solang Valley or exploring Old Manali’s cafes, this tourist place near Shimla Himachal Pradesh is a must-visit for every traveler.
Distance: 248 km
Best Time To Visit: October to June
Nearby Attractions: Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Hadimba Temple
Things to Do: Adventure sports, sightseeing, café hopping
Parwanoo is a scenic destination near Shimla, known for its orchards and panoramic views from the Timber Trail. The cable car ride offers breathtaking vistas, making it a popular tourist spot near Shimla for a day trip.
Distance: 65 km
Best Time To Visit: March to May, September to November
Nearby Attractions: Timber Trail, cable car rides
Things to Do: Ropeway rides, orchard visits, nature walks
Tirthan Valley is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers. With its crystal-clear rivers and lush forests, it’s one of the hill stations near Shimla that offers peace and adventure in equal measure.
Distance: 170 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November
Nearby Attractions: Great Himalayan National Park, waterfalls
Things to Do: Trout fishing, trekking, camping
Mcleodganj, the “Little Lhasa,” is known for its Tibetan culture and spiritual ambiance. The town is a vibrant mix of monasteries, cafes, and trekking trails, making it one of the best places to visit near Shimla for culture enthusiasts.
Distance: 235 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November
Nearby Attractions: Dalai Lama Temple, Bhagsu Waterfall
Things to Do: Monastery visits, trekking, café hopping
Chandigarh, the gateway to Himachal, is a modern city with beautiful gardens and urban attractions. It’s a convenient stopover for those traveling to or from Shimla, offering a blend of culture and leisure.
Distance: 112 km
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Nearby Attractions: Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake, Rose Garden
Things to Do: Sightseeing, shopping, boating
Kiarighat is a peaceful hamlet surrounded by pine forests, making it a perfect picnic spot. Its proximity to Solan and Timber Trail adds to its appeal as one of the best places to visit near Shimla for a quick escape into nature.
Distance: 27 km
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November
Nearby Attractions: Timber Trail, Solan
Things to Do: Picnics, nature walks, photography
These best places to visit near Shimla offer a diverse range of experiences—from adventure sports and spiritual retreats to unexplored places near Shimla that promise peace and solitude. Whether you’re looking for tourist places to visit near Shimla or planning to discover new attractions near Shimla, this list ensures every traveler finds their perfect getaway. For hassle-free travel planning and the best packages, visit tourtravelworld.com and embark on your next adventure.