This summer, escape to Narkanda

Nestled amidst tropical forests, majestic hills, and lush woodlands, Narkanda is a quaint town located 63 kilometers from Shimla in Himachal Pradesh. This serene hill station, perched at an altitude of 9,000 feet, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, abundant snowfall in winter, and delightful apple orchards. Connecting Shimla to the valleys of Kinnaur and Spiti, Narkanda offers a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

How to Reach:

Reaching Narkanda is fairly straightforward. The nearest airport and railway station are in Shimla, about 60 kilometers away. Shimla’s railway features a narrow gauge line, with the famous toy train from Kalka offering a picturesque journey that’s part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Shimla Airport provides frequent flights from major North Indian cities. Alternatively, the major railway station in Kalka, around 160 kilometers away, is another option. From Kalka or Shimla, buses and cabs are readily available to transport you to Narkanda. For those traveling from further afield, Chandigarh Airport, approximately 190 kilometers away, serves as a major hub, with cabs and buses providing easy connectivity to Narkanda.

Attractions:

Narkanda’s scenic apple orchards are a major draw, with the Stokes Farm, located 16 kilometers away, being Shimla’s oldest and most famous orchard. The town is also a hotspot for trekking, particularly the Hatu Peak Trek. This trek takes you through beautiful landscapes, past the Hatu Mata Temple and the serene Tannu Jabar Lake, both significant tourist attractions. The Hatu Nag Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the town and is a must-visit for adventure seekers.

Best Time to Visit:

The ideal time to visit Narkanda is during the summer months, when the weather is delightful, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 30 degrees Celsius. However, winter also attracts many visitors despite the freezing temperatures, as Narkanda transforms into a skiing paradise nestled in the Himachal Shivalik Ranges. The town’s winter charm lies in its snow-covered landscape, making it a favorite destination for skiing enthusiasts. Monsoons bring moderate rainfall, making the area lush and green, but less favorable for sightseeing due to potential roadblocks.

Whether you seek the thrill of skiing down snowy slopes, the tranquility of a summer retreat, or the picturesque beauty of apple orchards and trekking trails, Narkanda promises a fulfilling and memorable experience.