Narkanda Sightseeing

Narkanda – Why is Narkanda a better option than Shimla

Narkanda

A peculiar town in Shimla district standing at a height of 9000 feet, lies Narkanda. Surrounded by woodlands and exotic landscapes is the perfect go-to destination for small holiday breaks. Narkanda takes you out from the hustle and bustles of your daily life and offers a serene and calm atmosphere leaving an imprint on the mind of travelers to remember for long. Draped beautifully around with its majestic hills,mighty meadows, forests of oak and cedar and blooming red apple orchids presents the most astounding views. The tranquility and calmness of this place makes it a better option to visit than the always hustling and overcrowded by the tourist city of Shimla .

Best Time To Visit Narkanda

To witness white beauty all around, the best time to visit Narkanda is the winters. Whereas if you want to witness the dense forest covered lush green mountains, the best time would be after monsoons from (July to September). However looking for a perfect getaway from summers, ideal time would be from March to June.

Narkanda Day – Night Temperature

Sightseeing locations in Narkanda

Hatu Peak

Situated at a distance of only 8 km from Narkanda, stands Hatu Peak. Boasting as the highest point in the entire Shimla district at a towering height of 11150 feet(3300 m) is where Hatu Peak presents a bird-eye view of the majestic Himalayan ranges draped with green blanket of forest comprising of sky-touching cedar, deodars, pines and figs.Trekking for 7 km on the steep mountain is the preferred option to reach the Peak as driving by car can be risky for a steep one -way road. The aerial landscape view from the top of peak is worth the efforts reaching atop the hill. It is also famous as a ski destination in Narkanda.

Hatu Temple

Hatu Temple and a small pond is another attraction to be found on Hatu Peak. Hatu temple is a beautifully sculptured wooden temple and chinese styled carvings of Hatu Devi, dedicated to Mandodari, the wife of Ravana.It holds a great religious significance to the locals.It is believed that during the “Agyaat Vaas”(exhile period) of Pandavas, it’s the place where they cooked their meals. A stove like formation called “Bheem Chulha” stands next to the temple to commemorate the religious significance.

Tannu Jubbar Lake

Located at a distance of 10 km from Narkanda , lies this offbeat tourist location called Tannu Jubbar Lake. Best location for avid nature-lovers and photographers, lake is beautifully located amidst apple orchards, calmly overlooked by snow-capped mountains. Naag Devta temple , a shrine dedicated to the God of snakes also lies in its close proximity where a fair is organised in the month of June. Local craftsmen and artisans showcase their handicrafts, handlooms and jewellery here.

Stokes Farm

A prime tourist attraction located in Himachal Pradesh, around 14 kms ahead of Narkanda in a small hamlet called Thanedar. Stokes Farm, established by Samuel Satyanand Stokes,an American who, influenced by Indian philosophy, came to India in 1904 and started cultivation here. The farm is well known for its large scale cultivation of apples covering as a contributer of not only state’s apple production but recognised internationally too. A walk through these enthralling apple orchards is a fascinating experience.The best time to visit Stokes farm is the month of April when the orchards bloom to its fullest with the white flowers blooming into juicy apples.

Skiing

Known for its winter sports, Narkanda is one of the oldest Ski locations of India.Perched at an altitude of 8100 ft, the ski slopes of the hill boasting of safe though thrilling experience is perfect catering both beginners as well as experienced skiers.Skiing here is also the most economical in the country and fewer people visit here comparing to other ski destinations. The best time to visit Narkanda hills for skiing is from the month of December till March.

Mahamaya Temple

Located at a distance of 7 km on NH 22 from Narkanda, Mahamaya Temple is located in Kacheri around .5 km from Oddi. The temple is dedicated to Maa Kali,the Hindu goddess of time and change, the temple has a meditative vibe and the breathtaking view from the temple campus is worth clicking.