Attractions: Located near Shimla town, Kufri is the capital of winter sports. During the winter, visitors have the opportunity for skiing. The ski season is at its best during January and February. Ski equipments are available from HPTDC winter sports club in Kufri. Besides skiing, Kufri is a very nice picnic area with a beautiful view of the hills around and the snow-capped peaks. There is also a zoo that delights children. Some of the major attractions of Kufri are as under….
Kufri Fun World: One of the highest amusement parks in the world, Kufri Fun World is a popular destination for families and children. The park features a variety of rides and activities such as go-karting and zip-lining. Its snow-laden slopes make it a hotspot for skiing and tobogganing in winter. Adventure seekers often flock here for the thrill of snow sports.
Mahasu Peak: The highest point in Kufri, Mahasu Peak offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and the mighty Badrinath and Kedarnath ranges. Visitors can either trek up to the peak or enjoy a pony ride. The thick deodar forest along the way adds to the experience, making it ideal for nature walks and photography.
Fagu: A quaint village near Kufri, Fagu is an ideal destination for solitude seekers. Surrounded by apple orchards and terraced fields, it offers a peaceful atmosphere perfect for those looking to unwind. The village is also known for its picturesque views of the Himalayan ranges.
Himalayan Nature Park: This park, also known as Kufri Zoo, is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare species like the Himalayan Monal, snow leopards, and Tibetan wolves. It's a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers, offering an opportunity to explore the natural biodiversity of the region.
Indira Tourist Park: Located near the Himalayan Nature Park, the Indira Tourist Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Kufri. The park is ideal for a leisurely walk or a quiet afternoon picnic, offering serene views of the surrounding landscapes.
Skiing and Snowboarding: Kufri is a well-known destination for winter sports. During the colder months, the slopes of Kufri turn into a winter wonderland, attracting adventure enthusiasts for skiing and snowboarding. Kufri’s skiing season typically runs from December to February, making it a popular spot for both beginners and experienced skiers.
Stay in Shimla or Kufri? - When deciding whether to stay in Shimla or Kufri, visitors should consider the nature of their trip and personal preferences. Being a larger city, Shimla offers more options in terms of accommodation, restaurants, and shopping. It is also well-connected by road, rail, and air. If you prefer a more vibrant atmosphere with a variety of dining options, entertainment, and easy access to urban conveniences, Shimla is a better choice. Additionally, staying in Shimla allows you to explore its own attractions such as
Mall Road,
Jakhoo Temple, and
Christ Church, while still making a day trip to Kufri. On the other hand, Kufri is much quieter and more secluded, offering a closer connection to nature. Staying in Kufri is ideal for those who want a peaceful retreat surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. If you are interested in adventure activities like skiing or trekking, staying in Kufri provides easier access to these experiences. Kufri also has its own range of comfortable resorts and cottages, catering to tourists who wish to spend more time in the lap of nature.
Hence, both Shimla and Kufri have their own unique appeal. If you are looking for a lively experience with more facilities, Shimla is the better option. However, if your goal is to enjoy nature, adventure, and tranquility, Kufri would be a more suitable choice. Many tourists choose to split their stay between both places to get the best of both worlds.
Best Time to Visit Kufri: Kufri is a year-round destination, but the experience varies greatly with the seasons. Kufri is transformed into a snowy paradise during the winter months (December to February), making it the perfect time for snow sports like skiing, sledging, and snowboarding. The temperatures drop significantly, often below freezing, so visitors should come prepared with warm clothing. The weather in Kufri during summer (April to June) is mild and pleasant, making it an ideal escape from the scorching plains. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C, providing a perfect climate for outdoor activities such as trekking, horseback riding, and sightseeing. Kufri experiences moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season (July to September). While the lush greenery of the region comes alive, landslides can occasionally disrupt travel plans. Therefore, the monsoon season is less preferred by tourists.
How to Reach Kufri: Located approximately 16 kilometers from Shimla, Kufri lies on the National Highway 22 and serves as a gateway to several other popular destinations in the region, such as Fagu, Narkanda, and Rampur. The hill station's close proximity to Shimla makes it a popular day-trip destination, though many visitors also opt to stay for a night or two to fully experience its serene atmosphere. Kufri is easily accessible by road from Shimla, which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. Buses, cars and taxis ply between Shimla and Kufri, making it convenient for tourists. From Delhi, Kufri is about 360 kilometers and takes approximately 8 hours by car. The scenic drive along the winding mountain roads is an added bonus. The nearest railway station to Kufri is in Shimla, which is connected to Kalka through the famous narrow-gauge Kalka-Shimla railway line. From Kalka, visitors can take a toy train to Shimla, a UNESCO World Heritage site. After reaching Shimla, Kufri is just a 30-minute drive away. The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti, located around 34 kilometers from Kufri. However, this is a small airport with limited flights. Alternatively, the Chandigarh International Airport, around 140 kilometers away, offers better connectivity to major Indian cities. From there, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kufri.