#narkanda

BEST SNOWY AREAS TO ENJOY IN THE HIMACHAL PRADESH IN WINTER SEASONS

60 km past Shimla and somehow nobody’s there. Old-school ski slopes, Hatu Peak views for days, apple orchards everywhere. The Shimla snow experience without the Shimla crowd.

Do:

Ski / snow play in peak winter

Hatu Peak (~3,400 m) for the 360° views

Tanni Jubbar lake

Stokes apple farm at Thanedar

Narkanda is a quiet and scenic hill town in Himachal Pradesh, located along the historic Hindustan–Tibet Road. Known for its apple orchards, pine forests, winter snowfall, and wide Himalayan views, Narkanda is a perfect offbeat alternative to Shimla.

This Narkanda Travel Guide helps you explore one of the most peaceful and less crowded destinations in Himachal Pradesh, ideal for snow lovers, nature seekers, and slow travelers.

Where is Narkanda?

Narkanda is located around 60 km from Shimla at an altitude of approximately 2,700 meters. Its higher elevation offers colder winters, better snowfall, and clear views of Himalayan peaks.

What Makes Narkanda Special

Less crowded than Shimla

Famous apple orchards and village life

One of Himachal’s early skiing destinations

Gateway to Hatu Peak (highest point nearby)

Peaceful and natural mountain environment

Narkanda feels more raw, quiet, and open compared to commercial hill stations.

Best Time to Visit Narkanda

March – June: Pleasant weather & blooming orchards

July – September: Green landscapes

October – November: Apple harvest season & clear skies

December – February: Snowfall & skiing season

👉 Best time for this Narkanda Travel Guide: October to February (for snow lovers)

Also Read: Complete Chitkul Travel Guide | Explore Kinnaur Valley

How to Reach Narkanda

By Air: Nearest airports: Shimla Airport / Chandigarh Airport

By Train: Nearest station: Kalka Railway Station

By Road: Well connected from Shimla, Kufri, and Chandigarh. The drive is scenic with forest views.

Places to Visit in Narkanda

Hatu Peak & Hatu Mata Temple: Highest point with panoramic Himalayan views

Ski Slopes: Popular winter skiing spot

Apple Orchards: Beautiful village walk experience

Forest Trails: Peaceful nature walks and photography

Things to Do in Narkanda

Skiing and snow activities (winter)

Orchard and village walks

Sunrise & sunset viewpoints

Forest hiking

Photography & slow travel

👉 This Narkanda Travel Guide focuses on peace and nature, not commercial adventure.

Suggested Itinerary (2–3 Days)

Day 1: Arrival → Orchard walk → Sunset views Day 2: Hatu Peak excursion → Forest trails Day 3: Leisure morning → Departure

Accommodation in Narkanda

Budget: Homestays & guesthouses

Mid-range: Valley view hotels

Premium: Limited boutique stays

Facilities are simple but comfortable.

Food & Essentials

Simple North Indian food available

Limited cafés

Carry cash (ATMs may be limited)

Cold weather clothing required

Who Should Visit Narkanda

✔ Snow lovers & winter travelers ✔ Offbeat destination seekers ✔ Couples & slow travelers ✔ Nature & photography lovers

Who Should Avoid Narkanda

✘ Nightlife seekers ✘ Luxury-only travelers ✘ People uncomfortable with cold weather

Final Word

The Duplex Huts are located in Shimla. The Duplex Huts in Shimla - A Unique Experience in Nature. It's like staying at home, but it's from a movie when you stay at our duplex huts in Shimla. They are located near the serene mountains of Narkanda.

The well-designed cabins offer the perfect blend of privacy, luxury, and natural splendor. They are perfect for families, friends, or anybody looking for a place to go apart from regular people. Each duplex cabin is equipped with a range of options in bedding options that make it suitable for large-scale vacations and also provide cozy areas to relax.

Modern amenities like bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and comfortable interiors. You will be able to take advantage of all the comforts you need while staying near nature. Take in breathtaking views of the valley as you breathe in refreshing mountain air, and unwind in a tranquil setting far from the bustle of cities. It doesn't matter if you are sitting in the morning, sipping an iced tea, or sitting around a fire under the stars; every experience here is unique.

The duplex huts at our resort aren't just about staying; they also provide an experience. From thrilling activities to peaceful nature walks, this is a place that allows you to connect with the world surrounding you.

The following services are available in our Duplex Cabins. Rooms that have ample space, comfy beds, and breathtaking views. A bonfire, in a natural setting. If you're seeking an unforgettable getaway in the hills, Duplex huts located in Shimla offer style, comfort, and an unforgettable experience that will be a memory you'll never forget.

Narkanda is a peaceful hill town, nestled in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh. It has beautiful views, quiet surroundings, and pleasant weather year-round. You can find budget hotels in Narkanda and enjoy the beauty of the Himalayas without spending too much money if you are looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation in the mountains.

There are many reasons why people opt for budget hotels in Narkanda when they are traveling to the mountains. Many travelers prefer simple, comfortable accommodations that provide warmth and cleanliness while offering great views of the surrounding areas at affordable prices. They provide a cozy and welcoming environment with all of the necessary amenities (e.g., hot water, clean linens) to make your stay relaxed and worry-free.

Additionally, most affordable places to stay in Narkanda are within proximity of many popular attractions, local markets, and picturesque overlooks, so you can easily explore all that the area has to offer while staying within the budget for travel. Budget hotel options are available to suit every need (e.g., single travelers, couples looking for a romantic getaway, or families vacationing together).

Watching the Beautiful Scenery:

The most memorable experience from my time spent in Narkanda has been to go to the highest point in the area, called Hatu Peak, where you will definitely have some fantastic views of the Himalayas and the hundreds of miles of distance (and the snow-covered mountains).

When you get to Hatu Peak, you will be able to see beautiful views of the Himalayas in all their glory. There is nothing like waking up to see the sun rise over snow-covered mountains with that bright gold-colored sky behind them. There is nothing that can match that experience.

In addition to visiting Hatu Peak, others can visit orchards and pristine forests of pine trees and hiking trails. The area is also popular for its skiing and snowboarding, since, during the winter months, Narkanda becomes a snowy wonderland that attracts visitors hoping to enjoy the snow and beautiful white scenery during this time. You can experience these attractions by booking a budget hotel that meets your needs for cost-effective accommodations.

Narkanda has several budget hotels that offer clean, well-maintained rooms and good hot water service, as well as room service and home-style cooking. The hospitality in this area is friendly and welcoming; many times, guests feel as if they were staying with relatives rather than in a business hotel.

If you're looking for a peaceful place that is affordable and has a lot of nature to enjoy, Agyaat Vaas is an excellent choice for a Himalayan getaway. With its beautiful surroundings and comfortable accommodations, Agyaat Vaas is an excellent way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in nature. You will get great value and an unforgettable mountain experience when you visit Agyaat Vaas!

Ideal Time to Travel to Narkanda

Any time of the year is suitable to visit Narkanda. Pleasant summer temperatures are great for touring the area and trekking. Greenery and mist combine beautifully to create a scenic and enchanting place during the monsoon season (June to August). The majority of visitors come to see the snow from December to February (winter is the best time to go).

Accommodation should also be chosen based on the time of year you are traveling. You may find budget-friendly lodging by booking ahead.

If you are traveling during popular travel periods (i.e., during a holiday week), avoid demand by planning ahead of time to reserve accommodations.

Use site reviews to determine quality and experience.

Be prepared to find lodging that overlooks mountains or forests.

Visit multiple travel websites to determine the lowest prices available for similar accommodations.

Smart planning will enable you to have an enjoyable visit without going over your budget.

Narkanda is a great place to unwind. Taking in the clean air and enjoying being outdoors are two of the best ways we can unwind in Narkonda. Through the unspoiled beauty of Narkonda and its surroundings, you can take pleasure in affordable budget hotel accommodations that give you the opportunity to enjoy the scenic views and peaceful atmosphere while getting cozy.

If you are looking for mountain sunrises, hiking in the forests, or having tea with a spectacular view of the hills, Narkonda will give you memories that will last forever without breaking the bank.

Narkanda, a charming hill town in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh, India, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking peace and adventure. Located at an elevation of 2,708 meters, it offers stunning views of the Himalayan range and is surrounded by dense fir forests. Known for its serene environment, Narkanda is a great destination for nature lovers and those looking to escape the busy city life. In winter, it becomes a popular ski resort, attracting snow lovers from all around. Besides skiing, Narkanda is close to several offbeat places near Narkanda, making it a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding areas.

One of the most popular places to visit near Narkanda is Hatu Peak, just a short drive away. It offers a scenic trek through dense forests and leads to a stunning view of the snow-capped mountains. At the top, the Hatu Mata Temple stands as a spiritual spot for visitors to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Another nearby attraction is Tani Jubbar Lake, a small but serene lake surrounded by pine trees, perfect for picnics and leisurely walks in nature.