Chasing Snowflakes: Your Winter Dream in Shimla and Kufri
From colonial walkways to snowy slopes, this duo offers a diverse range of experiences.
By Ajit Brar
There’s a certain magic that descends upon the Queen of Hills, Shimla, and its snowy neighbor, Kufri, when winter wraps them in a pristine white blanket. Forget the usual tourist traps; a winter trip here is an unforgettable journey into a real-life snow globe, offering a mix of colonial charm and thrilling adventure.
If you’re dreaming of snow, cozy cafes, and mountain air, here’s why Shimla and Kufri should top your winter bucket list!
Why Winter is the Best Time to Visit
Winter transforms Shimla and Kufri into a mesmerizing wonderland. The main draw is the snowfall, which typically begins in December and can last until March, with January and February often bringing the heaviest blanket.
- Snowfall Spectacle: Witnessing the flakes drift down onto the majestic deodar and pine trees, turning the entire landscape a dazzling white, is a sight to behold.
- Adventure Sports Hub: Kufri, in particular, becomes a popular winter sports centre, offering a perfect playground for snow enthusiasts.
- Colonial Charm in the Snow: Shimla’s British-era architecture, like Christ Church and the Viceregal Lodge, looks stunning under a dusting of snow, transporting you to a bygone era.
- Cozy Vibes: The chill in the air makes everything—from a hot cup of coffee to a roaring bonfire—feel ten times better.
Things To Do and Spots to Explore
From colonial walkways to snowy slopes, this duo offers a diverse range of experiences.
In Shimla: The Queen of Hills
| Activity | Spot to Explore | Description |
| Stroll & Shop | The Mall Road & The Ridge | The heart of Shimla. Walk hand-in-hand, grab a hot drink, and shop for local woolen goods and souvenirs. The Ridge offers panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks. |
| Seek Blessings | Jakhu Temple | Perched atop Jakhu Hill, the highest point in Shimla. You can hike or take the ropeway. The giant Hanuman statue is often seen dusted with snow. |
| Relive History | Viceregal Lodge (Indian Institute of Advanced Study) | The former summer residence of the British Viceroys. Its Tudor architecture is particularly striking against the white backdrop. |
| Thrilling Adventure | Ice Skating | Shimla boasts South Asia’s oldest natural ice-skating rink, which operates depending on the weather conditions. A must-try winter activity! |
In Kufri: The Winter Sports Capital
Located just about 15-20 km from Shimla, Kufri is the go-to spot for heavy snow and adventure.
| Activity | Spot to Explore | Description |
| Snow Sports | Kufri Ski Slopes (Mahasu Peak) | Kufri is renowned for its gentle slopes, perfect for skiing and tobogganing (sliding downhill on a sled). Skiing gear and instructors are readily available. |
| Scenic Views & Temple | Mahasu Peak | The highest point in Kufri, offering breathtaking views of the Badrinath and Kedarnath ranges. You usually reach the top by hiring a mule or horse as the snowy or muddy path can be challenging to walk. There is also a small Nag Temple at the top. |
| Wildlife | Himalayan Nature Park (Kufri Zoo) | Home to various Himalayan species like the Snow Leopard, Himalayan Bear, and different kinds of pheasants. Explore the park amidst the snow-covered trees. |
| Fun & Games | Kufri Fun World | An amusement park that offers activities like Go-Karting (one of the highest tracks in the world) and other rides, often covered in snow during peak winter. |
| Leisure | Yak Rides | A unique and popular experience, especially near the Indira Tourist Park, where you can ride a decorated Yak through the snowy landscape. |
How to Reach Shimla and Kufri
Reaching this winter paradise is relatively easy, though travel can occasionally be affected by heavy snowfall.
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport (SLV) in Shimla (approx. 20-30 km from Shimla city). However, it has limited flight connectivity.
- Best Connectivity: Chandigarh International Airport (IXC) (approx. 120 km). From Chandigarh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Shimla.
By Train
- Broad Gauge Station: The nearest major railway station is Kalka (KLK), which is well-connected to cities like Delhi.
- The UNESCO Heritage Kalka-Shimla Railway: From Kalka, experience the iconic, narrow-gauge Toy Train ride to Shimla Railway Station. It’s a charming journey through tunnels and valleys, offering spectacular views.
Most Preferred is By Road
- From Delhi/Chandigarh: Shimla is well-connected by National Highway 5 (NH5).
- Bus: Overnight luxury Volvo and state-run HRTC buses run frequently from Delhi (ISBT Kashmiri Gate) and Chandigarh to Shimla.
- Car/Taxi: A drive from Chandigarh takes about 4-5 hours, while from Delhi, it’s about 8-10 hours, depending on traffic and weather.
- Shimla to Kufri: Kufri is a short 45-minute to 1-hour drive (approx. 15-20 km) from Shimla. Taxis and local buses run regularly between the two towns.
Pro Tip for Winter Travel: Always check the weather forecast before leaving. Carry heavy woolens, gloves, caps, and waterproof boots. If heavy snowfall is predicted, keep an eye on road closures and carry essential medication as a precaution!
Ready to swap your city stress for the fresh, crisp air and dazzling snowscapes of Shimla and Kufri? Book your ticket and dive into the winter magic!
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