Narkanda, Himachal Pradesh, (North India)
Narkanda is a small town situated in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is known for its scenic beauty, apple orchards, and as a popular skiing destination during the winter months.
Unlock the beauty of Narkanda with our comprehensive guide to the best things to do and places to visit in this mesmerizing region. From nature's marvels to cultural gems, Narkanda has it all
Religious Visit
Located in Kacheri, near Narkanda, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali.
Best Time to Visit: March - November
Timings: 06:00-19:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Modest dress code
Sightseeing
This serene lake, surrounded by trees and hills, is a great spot for a picnic and some relaxation.
Best Time to Visit: March - November
Timings: 06:00-18:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Peaceful, Ideal for picnics
Sightseeing
Atop the Hatu Peak, this temple dedicated to the goddess Hatu is a peaceful spot with captivating views.
Best Time to Visit: March - November
Timings: 07:00-19:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Road may be closed in winter
Camping
Several spots around Narkanda offer opportunities for camping under the starry skies, surrounded by thick forests and the majestic mountains.
Best Time to Visit: May - October
Timings: 14:00-11:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 3000.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Weather dependent
Skiing
In winter, Narkanda becomes a popular skiing destination. The government-run skiing resort provides skiing equipment and courses for beginners.
Best Time to Visit: January - February, December
Timings: 09:00-16:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 1200.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Seasonal (Winter), Requires training
Cuisine
Don't miss out on trying the local Himachali dishes available in the eateries and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 08:00-22:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Flexible (As per your budget)
Local specialties vary
Travel Guidelines for Narkanda, Himachal Pradesh (North India) For Indian Travellers Only
1. Place Information
Narkanda is a quaint town located in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh. Nestled at an altitude of about 2,708 meters, it offers panoramic views of the inner Himalayas. Narkanda is known for its apple orchards, dense forests, and activities like skiing in the winters.
2. Travel Related Information
By Road: Narkanda is approximately 65 km away from Shimla and is well-connected via the Hindustan-Tibet Road. Regular bus services are available from Shimla to Narkanda.
By Air: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport, around 80 km away. Another option is Chandigarh Airport, which is about 180 km away.
By Railway: The nearest major railway station is Shimla, connected via the Kalka-Shimla railway line, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. Visa Related Information
Indian citizens don't require a visa to travel within India. For any ID or travel-related queries, refer to local administrative offices or the Ministry of Home Affairs website.
4. SIM Card/Network Related Information
Major telecom providers in Narkanda include Jio, Airtel, Vodafone-Idea, and BSNL. Network connectivity is generally decent, but there might be weak signals in some remote areas.
5. Govt Safety Guidelines
Narkanda is relatively peaceful and safe for tourists. However, like all mountainous regions, it's advisable to check weather conditions before traveling and be cautious of landslides during the rainy season. The Himachal Pradesh Police website provides safety advisories.
6. Internal Transport Related Information
In Narkanda, taxis are the primary mode of transportation. However, the town's compact nature makes walking a delightful way to explore.
7. Special Mentions
Hatu Peak: Located at an altitude of 3,400 meters, it offers mesmerizing views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Tannu Jubbar Lake: A serene lake surrounded by cedar trees, it's a perfect picnic spot.
Skiing: Narkanda is known for its winter sports, especially skiing.
Apple Orchards: The region is famous for its apple production, and a walk through the orchards can be a unique experience.
Local Cuisine: Don't miss out on trying Himachali dishes like Chana Madra, Dham, Babru, and Sidu.