6 Top Things To Do In Kufri

Kufri is a tiny, chilly hill station in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Just 18 kms from the ever popular Shimla, Kufri, at an altitude of 9000 feet, is the most popular tourist spot around Shimla. It is famous for hiking, skiing, beautiful scenery and fantastic weather. The best time to visit is from April to June. The skiing season peaks between November and February. Kufri is also well known for its breathtaking panoramas of the Himalayas. Here are our picks for the top 6 things to do in Kufri

The Himalayan Nature Park comprises of about 90 hectares of Western Himalayan flora and fauna. A large variety of animals and birds can be seen in the park. Rare sub-species of Hangal, Barking Deer, Musk Deer, Brown Bear, Monal and other pheasants can be found here. A vast collection of migratory birds also make a pit stop at this park. While inside the Nature Park, you can also enjoy a breathtaking view of the entire range of Himalayan snow clad peaks.

A yak ride is one of the best things to do in Kufri's snowy landscapes. These tough, plodding beasts glide effortlessly through the terrain, and you can almost go back to a time when nomadic tribes plodded on yaks through the cold mountains in search of fertile soil and warmer climes.

There are a number of skiing slopes in Kufri - from gentle ones for beginners to steep ones for expert skiers in search of a challenge. There are state government run ski courses and they also give out equipment on hire. The most popular slope for skiing is Mahasu.

Set snugly amidst fragrant alpine forests and pretty apple orchards on a pass between two valleys, the charming vantage point of Fagu offers panoramic views of the higher ranges and valleys. Fagu, located 6 kms from Kufri, has a rest house and tourist bungalows overlooking the Giri valley.

Chail is an hour drive from Kufri. On your way, you will find yourself winding through beautiful oak and pine forests. The Maharaja of Patiala used Chail as his summer retreat. Chail is considered a walkers paradise with a dozen trek routes leading out of Chail to Choor Peak, Shimla and other Himalayan areas.

Tobogganing is a modified form of sledging where simple sledges are ridden directly down the snowy peaks. Usually two or more people can accommodate in one toboggan. This is a relatively new winter sport in India though it's popular around the world. Toboganning is on at Kufri from April to June and from September to February. Give it a shot!