7 Picturesque Hill Stations Near Shimla for a Scenic Himalayan Getaway

As the summer draws near, the mountain seems to be beckoning the traveler in you! While Shimla is a much-loved hill station, it can get a little too overcrowded during the summers.

Instead of planning just another trip to Shimla, why not explore some of the surrounding hill stations nearby Shimla? 

These hill stations are about an hour's drive from the Mall road in Shimla. You can also stay at the best hotels in Shimla while exploring the surrounding hill stations. 

To get attractive discounts in the best hotels in Shimla, book your trip in March or April.

Check out these hill stations near Shimla for your next Himalayan getaway this summer:

1. Mashobra

Explore this mesmerizing hill station amidst lush greenery and breathtaking surroundings. Whether you plan a week-long trip or a weekend getaway, this place offers an oasis of natural beauty and serenity. To get attractive offers on your stay at Mashobra hotels, book at least one month before your travel date. 

This place is less crowded as compared to Shimla, making it a haven for solo and couple travelers. Book Mashobra hotels online for a romantic weekend getaway this summer. Don’t forget to shop for Mashobra honey on your next trip.

Fun Activities: Camping, Bird Watching, and Shopping

Peak Season: April to June

En Route Shimla: 13 km

Top Tourist Attractions: Visit Mahasu Peak and Reserve Forest Sanctuary

How to Reach Mashobra: Take a train to Shimla railway station, which 11 kilometers from Mashobra. Take a flight to Chandigarh airport and drive to Mashobra by road. 

2. Kufri

Visit this scintillating hill station, Kufri which is located 18 km from Shimla. While Kufri transforms into a snowy paradise during the winters, it makes for a scenic getaway during the summers. Book hotels in Kufri with mountain view rooms.

If you are planning a trip to Kufri this summer, book hotels in Kufri in March-April to avail attractive offers. 

Fun Activities: Explore Wildlife and Elated Yak Ride

Peak Season: November to March

En Route Shimla: 18 km

Top tourist attractions: Wildlife safari at Himalayan Nature Park. Visit the Kufri Fun World. 

How to reach Kufri: Located just 20 kilometers away, Jubbarhatti is the closest airport to Kufri. Broad Gauge railway station is the nearest railway located at 100 kilometers.

3. Naldehra

Naldehra is one of the quaint little hill stations near Shimla which offers a peaceful getaway far away from hustle and bustle of city life. To avail of attractive discounts on Naldehra hotels, book your trip in March or April. Bask in the exuberating natural beauty to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul on your trip to Naldehra. Book Naldehra hotels at least one to two months before your desired travel date. 

En Route Shimla: 26 km

Top Tourist Attractions: Hot water springs at Tattapani. For a dose of adventure, go for river rafting in Chabba. Plan a trek the Shaily Peak.

How To Reach Nalhedra: Jubbarhatti Airport is the nearest airstrip near Naldehra. Shimla is the nearest railway station that connects to Naldehra. 

4. Chail

Ever dreamt of postcard-like views of the Himalayas? Chail with its idyllic surroundings is the perfect mountain lovers' paradise! 

You can explore the entire Chail in a day or two, so book your accommodation accordingly at Chail hotels. 

This picturesque hill station in the lap of the Himalayas can be explored in a day during your stay at Shimla. Go for a nature walk or hike along the scenic trails amidst the pine and oak trees. You can also book Chail hotels online one to two months before your summer trip. 

Fun Activities: Rock climbing, Camping, and horse riding

Peak Season: March- June

En Route Shimla: 56 km

Top Tourist Attractions: Chail Palace

How to reach Chail: The nearest airport is Jabarhatti located 72 km away. The nearest railway station is Kandaghat which is about 30 km away.

5. Kasauli

Bask in the refreshing vibes and tranquil environment of this quaint little hill town in Himachal. Kasauli has a rich cultural heritage owing to British colonization. Book the best hotels in Kasauli at least one to two months before your travel date.

Enjoy the majestic sunset views at the sunset point with your significant other. Explore the local churches and go for a nature hike amidst scenic mountain trails. You can check for attractive discounts in the best hotels in Kasauli during off-peak season.

Fun Activities: Trekking, Toy Train Ride, Christ Church

Peak Season: April- July

En Route Shimla: 70 km

Top tourist attractions: Take a stroll around the nature trails. Visit the Pine Hills Eco Camp.

How to reach Kasauli: The nearest railway station is Kalka, which is around 40 km away. You can also travel to Kasauli from New Delhi or Chandigarh via state-run or private buses. 

6. Auli

If you are looking for a picturesque hill station with unforgettable natural scenery, add Auli to your travel bucket list for this summer. Book the best hotels in Auli at discounted rates for an affordable summer retreat. 

This quaint little hill town is hidden from the crowded tourist places in Himachal. Refresh your senses amidst the tranquil surroundings in Auli. While Auli is a much-preferred destination during the winters, it is a great place to explore during the off-peak summer months. The best hotels in Auli offer attractive discounts to travelers during the off-peak season.

Fun activities: Skiing, Bird Watching, Nature Walks, and Hiking

Peak Season: November- February

En Route Shimla: 170 km

How to reach Auli: The nearest airport is Shimla, located at a distance of about 188 km. Shimla railway station is the nearest railway station to travel to Auli. 

7. Tirthan Valley

Tirthan Valley is a hidden gem for the adventure lover to explore! Ignite the adventure seeker with fun activities like trekking and rock climbing. Camp on the banks of the Tirthan river and go trout fishing. Book Tirthan valley hotels at least 2-3 months before your desired travel date to avail of attractive discounts. 

Peak Season: March to June during Summer. October to November during Winters

En Route Shimla: 203 km

Fun Activities: Explore the Great Himalayan National Park. Go Trout fishing. Plan a trek from Jalori Pass to Serolsar Lake. 

How to reach Tirthan valley: Bhuntar airport is located 48 km away. The nearest railway station is Kalka which is located 240 km away.

These are some of the picturesque hill stations to explore in and around Shimla for your next summer getaway.