Are you planning road trips from Shimla to enjoy the beauty of serene hill stations with families or couples? Shimla is the perfect option; it is known as “Queen of the Hills”, a perfect summer retreat for you. A road trip from Shimla also offers you several adventure activities like trekking, camping, paragliding, and river rafting. Surrounded by the mighty Himalayas, this picturesque destination is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, pleasant weather, awe-inspiring shrines, and colonial architecture.
Now, from the serene views of snow-peaked mountains to historical landmarks and charming markets, enjoy your perfect weekend getaways from Shimla. Here you will experience the tranquility of summer hills, a serene hill and a picturesque hill station with stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere; moreover, the city’s rich cultural heritage, and its traditional crafts, fine arts, or literature have something for all art-lovers in this delightful city. For the best trip, this guide will help you plan a trip, including a plethora of places to visit near Shimla by road.
Why Take a Road Trip from Shimla?
Shimla is a perfect vacation destination; it serves as a gateway to incredible Indian landscapes. Shimla road trip, with its mesmerizing beauty and serene landscapes serves as an ideal starting point for thrilling road trips. Here you can explore several places like ancient temples, splendid hill stations and a plethora of offbeat places for a memorable journey near Shimla.
A road trip from Shimla with green valleys and pretty hill towns allows you to ride into the untouched beauty of Himachal Pradesh. The city is also a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts, with tasty food and an amazing view of snowy mountains. Take a trip to this city with the lesser-known roads that can offer you a similar beautiful experience.
Best Places to Visit Near Shimla by Road (Under 300 km)
Shimla is one of the famous travel destinations in Himachal Pradesh, popular for its quaint hill town with picturesque vistas, snow-capped mountains, & adventure activities. There is a wide range of places to visit near Shimla within 300 km that are equally captivating and are highly recommended to visit. Here are some of the best places that you must include in your road trips from Shimla. To relax your body and soul, these places are perfect for weekend getaways near Shimla.
Kufri: To enjoy a panoramic view and lush surroundings, add this serene city to your road trip from Shimla. Nestled in Himachal Pradesh, Kufri is a quaint little town that offers you an enthralling view of this hilly region. The town is recognized for its panoramic landscapes and thrilling outdoor activities. From ancient temples to dense forests, Kufri is an ideal destination for families, friends, couples and solo vacationers alike.
Naldehra: For a peaceful retreat, you can visit this picturesque hill station. Naldehra, located at an altitude of 2200 meters in the Himalayan Mountains, offers you stunning views and an impressive golf course. It offers you a serene escape from the crowded destination. This city is known for its lush green meadows, dense cedar forests, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, making it an ideal retreat for you. Here you can enjoy a wonderful afternoon in the lush green valley or take a horse ride to the Naldehra golf Course.
Mashobra: It is a charming hill town, perfect for a weekend getaway near Shimla. Mashobra offers you a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is just 12 km from Shimla and offers you a breathtaking view of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. Here you can explore places like Chadwick Falls and Mahasu Peak. In addition to immersing yourself in natural beauty, there are plenty of wonderful places that you can add to your trip for a memorable journey.
Chandigarh: Visit India’s first planned city from Manali by just taking a Shimla to Chandigarh cab. Chandigarh is an imaginary city that offers you a unique grid-like design and is famous as a testament to phenomenal infrastructure and town planning. This city gives a sense of peace and tranquility, punctuated by a serene lake and expansive green spaces. It also serves as a popular weekend getaway and a crucial transit point. With its well-planned layout, green spaces, and modernist architecture, the city is a must-visit destination for you.
Kalka: It is a perfect getaway in the Panchkula district of Haryana, offering a tranquil view of the breathtaking surroundings. Kalka is listed under UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. Here you can explore Kalka Devi Temple and local culture. Additionally, Kalkaji Temple is believed to have been where Lord Krishna and the Pandavas also worshipped Kali. It is a perfect starting point of the Shimla toy train and a perfect gateway to Himachal Pradesh.
Hamirpur: To enjoy hills, camping, and trekking, you can visit this city. Hamirpur, as a major agricultural production, also offers you an enchanting beauty and a rich cultural heritage. This city holds its own allure; additionally, with its scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant traditions, it uncovers the hidden gems that adorn this captivating region. This city offers a glimpse into the region's rich spiritual heritage and creates a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.
Delhi: From Manali, you can also plan a visit to the capital city of India to enjoy a fantastic combination of old and new. Your Shimla to Delhi taxi drive is about 7 to 8 hours. Delhi, as a relaxing getaway, offers a diverse range of tourist spots that range from historical monuments like the Red Fort and Qutub Minar and many other landmarks. The city, as a home to a variety of religious and spiritual places, also provides you with an opportunity to experience a variety of religious traditions and customs.
Hill Stations Near Shimla by Road
For sightseeing or indulging in adventure sports, you can explore numerous hill stations near Shimla by road. These are perfect for breathtaking views that make these hill stations interesting for landscape photographers and nature lovers. With cool places to visit near Shimla, it's also ideal for thrill seekers. They are the soothing summer gateways from Shimla, and are equally loved by romantic couples, families, wanderers, and photography buffs.
Manali: Explore this spectacular valley to experience breathtaking views, snowcapped mountains, and the lush forests of oak, deodar, and pine. It's an ideal place to enjoy trekking, climbing, mountain biking, paragliding, and skiing. This city is the most popular destination for honeymooners, offering you a magnificent view. It offers a variety of cuisine options that range from local dishes to international cuisines.
Solan: Nestled on the Punjab-Himachal Border, you can explore this ideal tourist destination with picturesque vistas of the Himalayan foothills and a town replete with colonial heritage that is bustling with activities. Solan is a serene town often referred to as the “Mushroom city of India”. The city is known for its rich history and cultural significance; additionally, it's a treasure trove for you if you are seeking peace and adventure alike. This city offers world-class amenities to make your stay unforgettable.
Barog: In Himachal Pradesh, it's an ideal tourist destination offering a blend of its uniqueness and wonder. Barog, as a quaint town, is famous for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate, offering you a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. This city is also known for its serene landscape, lush pine forests, and pleasant weather. Moreover, it’s a perfect destination for all nature lovers and peace seekers. With its colonial-era charm, it's a serene summer getaway from Shimla.
Chail : Explore one of the quaint hill stations in the lap of nature. Chail is a heaven for you if you are looking for an escape from city hustle and bustle. The city is a famous destination with scenic views, lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere. Here, Chail wildlife sanctuary is another popular attraction to enjoy a view of unique Himalayan animals and birds in their natural habitat. For a break from the bustle of cities and avoiding crowds, it's an ideal destination for you.
Narkanda: To enjoy rich landscapes and exotic places, you can explore this quaint town. Narkanda town, with its tropical forests, majestic hills and amazing adventures, is a quaint town in Himachal Pradesh that is your one-stop destination to relax, embrace nature and find peace. This city is also surrounded by lush green gardens and panoramic mountains that make it a perfect destination for you.
Offbeat & Less-Crowded Escapes Near Shimla
Shimla is famous for its stiff colonial charm, vibrant markets, and splendid views of the Himalayas. Other than crowded places, there are numerous vibrant offbeat places near Shimla that are perfect for peaceful weekend trips from Shimla. You can easily explore them by taking a car rental in Shimla that offers you a drive through lush greenery, an adrenaline rush or a serene environment that one may want. Now explore everything from the least crowded places.
Jubbal: In Himachal Pradesh, it is the most famous town ideal for a peaceful weekend trip from Shimla. Jubbal offers some of the most mesmerizing landscapes and awe-inspiring vistas. Additionally, it's a perfect holiday destination that promises to offer a panoramic view of the natural landscapes. The place is hardly crowded and is an ideal spot for trekking. Here you can also explore places like Apple Orchards, Jubbal Palace. while enjoying natural beauty and serenity.
Kharapathar: Explore this small town to enjoy the natural beauty and picturesque landscapes in the Shimla district. Kharapathar, often referred to as the “ apple belt of Himachal Pradesh” due to sparkling apple plantations dotting the hills with reds and greens, is additionally an ideal destination for you to experience a breathtaking view and a clear sky. This city offers a quieter ambience, surrounded by lush apple orchards and dense forests.
Shaily Peak: It is a renowned trekking destination nestled near Shimla in Himachal Pradesh, India. Shaily Peak is famous for its breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan Ranges. With lush greenery, dense forests, picturesque views, and a hill-top location, along with a tranquil atmosphere, it creates a perfect destination for you. Additionally, it's a less crowded and excellent town perfect for quality time away from day-to-day life.
Rampur Bushahr: If you are looking for a hidden place near Shimla, you can visit this serene city. Rampur is a popular town famous for its peaceful environment, local culture, and natural beauty. This city is known for its rich culture, vibrant festivals, and breathtaking landscapes. To relax and explore local life, you can add this destination to your scenic journey from Shimla; moreover, it's a great place for you for a calm and meaningful travel experience.
Kothi: Explore this small village nestled in the district of Kullu, popular for its natural beauty, snow-capped peaks, lush green forests, and tranquil surroundings. Kothi is known for its lush green forests and tranquil surroundings. Additionally, this city is a hidden gem that always offers you an opportunity to experience the natural beauty, traditional culture, and adventure of the Himalayas. It's a must-visit destination to seek natural beauty and a tranquil atmosphere.
Sarkaghat: It's a serene town nestled in the state of Himachal Pradesh, offering you a serene, peaceful escape from city hustle and bustle. Sarkaghat is popular for its temples, including Naina Devi Temple, which attracts many pilgrims and tourists throughout the year. Here you can also explore the beautiful scenery around the town, like the lush green hills and sparkling rivers. Whether you are looking for cultural experiences or outdoor adventure, Sarkaghat has everything for you to enjoy a trip with family and friends.
Adventure & Wildlife Getaways Near Shimla
Globally known as “Queen of the Hill stations”, it is also popular for wildlife places near Shimla, ideal for enjoying a colonial charm, lush greenery, and panoramic views. Additionally, they are popular adventure getaways from Shimla and offer a perfect blend of thrill and natural charm for everyone who loves outdoor activities. Shimla road trip with safari promises a view of rich flora and fauna, with many other species. Whether you are looking for trekking, rafting, or winter skiing and snow sports, this city promises unforgettable memories.
Tirthan Valley: For a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, you can explore this serene valley nestled in the scenic landscapes of Himachal Pradesh. It's an ideal destination for you to enjoy a tranquil atmosphere and peaceful surroundings. Moreover, the city surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, dense forests, and mesmerizing rivers always boasts natural beauty that captivates you. There are plenty of places near the valley, from exploring nature to engaging with local culture.
Great Himalayan National Park: Nestled in the Kullu region of Himachal Pradesh, this park is home to 375 species with rich flora and fauna, including 31 mammals and 81 birds. This national Park is a combination of distinctive animal and plant species together with stunning vistas. With an unforgettable journey, it's a must-visit destination for you. Additionally, to immerse yourself in the peaceful ambience of nature, there are plenty of things to do in the Great Himalayan National Park to explore.
Sundernagar: It is a town in Mandi known for being home to numerous flawless sanctuaries and landmarks. Sunder Nagar is also famous for its ordinary excellence and transcending woodland and trees, and is an ideal destination. The city is also well known for its hydropower projects, temples, and serene natural beauty. The city is famous for the Mahamaya Temple and for the Sukhdev Vatika as a beautiful garden.
Tattapani: To experience a perfect combination of relaxation and amusement, you can explore such a famous place. Tattapani is popular for its natural hot water spring. Additionally, it offers you a unique opportunity to enjoy and rejuvenate. This is a perfect destination for all adventure activities like river rafting and trekking. The town is known for its scenic beauty, with lush greenery, towering mountains and the gushing waters of the Sutlej River creating a captivating backdrop.
Spiritual Places Near Shimla
Shimla is an ideal tourist destination with many beautiful spiritual places near Shimla. With religious road trips from Shimla, you can experience a divine atmosphere; moreover, you can also explore temples near Shimla that are perfect for seeking peace and serenity. Here, this guide will offer you the most essential religious places that must be included in your trip to Shimla for an unforgettable journey.
Chintpurni Temple: It is one of the major pilgrimage sites in India, popular as a spiritual powerhouse or retreat for healing. Chintpurni temple is one of the famous temples near Shimla, attracting devotees every year to seek blessings and get relief from worldly worries. The town is nicely connected by road and is easily accessible from several major cities. Here, scenic hills make it one of the most beautiful places in Himachal, which makes it an ideal place for everyone.
Kangra Devi Temple: Explore this largest region in the beautiful Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Kangra is well known for the backdrop of the Dhauladar range, ancient temples, and endless tea plantations. This is a perfect holiday destination famous for its stunning landscapes and also for its rich religious heritage. Now plan a religious road trip from Shimla to get a glimpse into the cultural and spiritual tapestry that defines this enchanting region.
Bhimakali Temple, Sarahan: It is one of the popular pilgrimage sites in Himachal Pradesh. The Bhimakali temples at Sarahan are among the must-include places in a Shimla trip. The rich cultural heritage and history of the temple make it so special for all spiritual seekers. The breathtaking architecture of this temple is another marvel to absorb when you visit. Additionally, this temple stands as a majestic symbol of devotion and architectural brilliance.
Jwala Ji Temple (Kangra) : Nestled in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, Jwala Devi Temple is a peaceful place beautifully maintained with a serene garden filled with flowering and fruit plants, stone benches for meditation and a sacred water pond. It's an ideal place for you. Additionally, festivals such as Navratri and Vijaydashami are celebrated here with great enthusiasm and with a more vibrant decoration, making it an ideal destination for all spiritual seekers alike.
Baijnath Temple: It is one of the ideal destinations in Himachal Pradesh, devoted to Lord Shiva. Baijnath Temple holds an ultimate significance for Lord Shiva devotees of all miseries and pain. The overall beauty of the place is more fascinating and gives a perfect image of a beautiful garden of nature around the entire township. This temple is the right place for you as it is a combination of rich culture and stunning nature. So let's explore this spirit while enjoying a journey to Shimla.
Travel Tips for Road Trips from Shimla
Shimla, as a delightful destination, offers you a serene natural beauty and a peaceful environment. Here for a memorable journey, you must follow essential Shimla road trip tips while planning your journey. Shimla is a dream destination with its colonial heritage and scenic beauty. With this guide, you can plan the best way to travel from Shimla, and you will enjoy a hassle-free road trip. Here is some useful advice for you to enjoy a comfortable journey with family and friends.
- Start early, especially on weekends or vacations, due to high traffic and rush on roads.
- Carry your essentials like snacks, water, and power banks for refreshment and for entertainment while enjoying a journey.
- Check the weather and road conditions before beginning your journey, as Shimla roads can be affected by rain or snow.
- Keep cash for parking, small purchases, and for tolls as well; sometimes digital payments may not be accepted.
- Use CabBazar for easy online cab booking and for a hassle-free journey.
Best Time to Visit These Places from Shimla
To visit a charming place, choosing the best time to travel from Shimla, as per entertainment and fun, is very important for everyone. Shimla, as a dreamy image, is perfect for a lovely stroll amongst the mountains. Additionally, Shimla getaway timing is best planned according to your interest, whether you are planning an adventure, spiritual visits or a nature escape. With so many options for seasonal travel near Shimla, Journey always promises a memorable blend of beauty and cultural experiences.
- Summer (Mar–June): To enjoy a lush view of the post-snow season and the Himalayan peaks, you can plan a trip from March to June. During this time, the weather is nice with pleasant days and cool nights; moreover, you can also spend this entire season doing winter sports like hiking, paragliding, camping, trekking, rafting, and many other activities. In the summer season, the sun and flowers are out in full bloom, and with clear skies, you can visit most of the best places near Shimla.
- Monsoon (Jul–Sep): To experience rain and a dense curtain of humidity hanging over the hill station, you can visit the city in the monsoon season from July to September. In this season, you can explore museums, temples, and the cafes and restaurants in the area. Additionally, it's a great time to visit and perfect to enjoy scenic and lush green landscapes. It's an ideal time for you if you are seeking natural beauty in a tranquil and less crowded environment.
- Winter (Oct–Feb): To explore the hill stations and various tourist destinations, you can explore the city in the winter season from October to February. This season is the perfect time to enjoy the temperature drops, the cool breeze, and crisp mountain air that create a magical atmosphere, and it's an ideal time for families, honeymooners, and adventure enthusiasts who offer activities like ice skating, skiing, and snowball fights. In this season, you can explore Kufri, Narkanda, Ridge, and many other places.
FAQs
- What are the best weekend getaways near Shimla by car?
In the “Queen of hill stations”, there are plenty of places for the best weekend getaway near Shimla by car, such as Naldehra, Cheog, Theog, Kotkai, Narkanda, Kotgarh, and many more.
- Can I take a one-day road trip from Shimla?
Yes, by hiring a cab with CabBazar, you can easily take a one-day road trip from Shimla for a hassle-free journey.
- What are some good family-friendly destinations near Shimla?
While planning a road trip from Shimla, you can visit enormous places that are ideal for a good family-friendly destination, like Kufri, Kasauli, Naldera, Shoghi, Nahan, and many more.
- How can I book a cab for a road trip near Shimla?
For a more comfortable ride, you can book a cab easily through an online platform with CabBazar. It always promises you safe and convenient travel options; moreover, it offers you a well-maintained cab with skilled drivers at a most reasonable fare.
- Are there hill stations within 300 km of Shimla?
Yes, there are a plethora of serene hill stations within 300 km of Shimla that are best to seek a peaceful getaway. Here you can visit places like Manali, Dharamshala, Chail, Kasauli, Solan, Kufri, Nahan, Thirthan Valley and many more places for a memorable journey to Shimla.
Shimla is a splendid destination to enjoy, with its atmospheric hill stations, spiritual sites, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas, making it a heaven for all who are planning road trips from Shimla. To experience and enjoy the vacations near Shimla, there are many impressive collections of hotels and resorts that are perfect for all adventure seekers and weekend getaways from Shimla. Now, for a more scenic journey, you can hire a cab with CabBazar. For a relaxed road trip and for exploring beyond city life, you can book a cab with CabBazar. It offers you clean cabs with verified drivers, and at more affordable fares.
