Shimla, Kufri, Chail, and Narkanda form the most scenic circuit in Himachal Pradesh. This guide covers highlights, distances, travel tips, and best times to visit, with links to full guides for each destination.

Best time to Visit Shimla, Kufri, Chail & Narkanda,  

If there’s one region in India that never fails to impress travelers, it’s Himachal Pradesh. Known for its snow-capped peaks, charming hill stations, colonial architecture, and adventurous treks, Himachal is a dream for every mountain lover. And among all the gems it holds, the belt of Shimla, Kufri, Chail, and Narkanda stands out as one of the most scenic and accessible routes for tourists.

Whether you’re traveling with family, planning a honeymoon, or simply backpacking with friends, this stretch offers something for everyone. Shimla, the “Queen of Hills,” charms with its colonial past, bustling Mall Road, and peaceful walks among deodar trees. Just a short drive away, Kufri brings out the adventurer in you with its ski slopes, horse rides, and amusement park rides at Kufri Fun World. A little further lies Chail, a quieter and more serene alternative to Shimla, home to the highest cricket ground in the world and the famous Chail Palace. And if you continue towards the mountains, you’ll reach Narkanda, a lesser-explored hill station that offers apple orchards, thrilling skiing experiences, and the breathtaking Hatu Peak trek.

What makes this route special is how easily you can cover all four destinations in one trip. Shimla acts as the gateway, and within 50–70 km you’ll find yourself exploring new landscapes, activities, and vibes at every stop. From the buzzing streets of Shimla to the peaceful trails of Chail, and from skiing adventures in Kufri to panoramic mountain views in Narkanda, this circuit is a complete package.

In this ultimate Himachal travel guide, we’ll take you through the highlights of Shimla, Kufri, Chail, and Narkanda, with quick tips, distances, best times to visit, and top things to do in each place. And for travelers who want more, we’ll also link to detailed guides for each destination so you can plan your trip like a pro.

Shimla - The Queen of Hills:

  • Highlights: Mall Road, Ridge, Jakhoo Temple, Christ Church, Toy Train ride.
  • Best Time: March - June (pleasant), December- February (snow).
  • Distance from Delhi: 350 km (7 - 8 hrs by road).
    Read Full Shimla Travel Guide

Kufri  - The Winter Wonderland:

  • Highlights: Kufri Fun World, skiing slopes, horse riding, Mahasu Peak.
  • Best Time: December - February (snow activities), March - June (pleasant).
  • Distance from Shimla: 15 km (45 mins).
    Read Full Kufri Travel Guide

Chail - Peaceful Escape in the Hills:

  • Highlights: Chail Palace, world’s highest cricket ground, Kali Ka Tibba, Gaura River.
  • Best Time: March - June and September–November.
  • Distance from Shimla: 44 km (2 hrs).
     Read Full Chail Travel Guide

Narkanda - Apple Orchards & Hatu Peak:

  • Highlights: Hatu Peak trek, skiing in winter, Stokes Farm (apple orchards).
  • Best Time: March - June (green valleys), December - February (snow).
  • Distance from Shimla: 65 km (2–3 hrs).
    Read Full Narkanda Travel Guide