About the auther
Hi, I’m Vanshika Chauhan, a passionate travel content writer who loves exploring new places and sharing my experiences through simple and helpful travel blogs. I enjoy writing about hill stations, temples, hidden destinations, and complete travel guides, especially in Himachal Pradesh.
Introduction – A Hidden Gem Near Shimla
It is one of the most beautiful and peaceful hill destinations located near Shimla in Himachal Pradesh. Situated around 16 kilometers from Shimla, this small hill station is famous for its natural beauty, adventure activities, snowfall, and panoramic mountain views. In 2026, Kufri continues to attract thousands of tourists from across India who come here to enjoy snow, nature, and a calm atmosphere away from the busy city life.
This charming destination is surrounded by dense forests of deodar and pine trees, making it a perfect place for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. The cool climate, fresh air, and scenic beauty make Kufri an ideal place for families, couples, and adventure seekers. During winter, Kufri transforms into a snowy wonderland, and during summer, it offers pleasant weather that makes it a perfect escape from the heat.
Kufri is not just about sightseeing; it is about experiencing the calmness of the mountains, enjoying adventure activities, and creating memorable travel moments. Whether you are planning a honeymoon, family vacation, or solo trip, Kufri offers something special for everyone.
One of the main reasons tourists love Kufri is its peaceful environment. Compared to Shimla, it is less crowded and gives a more natural and relaxing travel experience. Visitors can enjoy horse riding, trekking, skiing, and exploring nearby valleys. The breathtaking views from the top of Mahasu Peak make Kufri one of the most scenic destinations in Himachal Pradesh.
Kufri is also known for its adventure sports. In winter, tourists come here to enjoy skiing and snow activities. In summer, people enjoy trekking, hiking, and nature walks. The place is perfect for people who love mountains and want to spend time in nature. The local culture, simple lifestyle, and friendly people make this place even more attractive. Small food stalls, local markets, and mountain views create a complete hill station experience. If you want to enjoy snowfall, Kufri is one of the best places near Shimla where you can see snow during the winter season.
History of Kufri – The Story Behind This Hill Station
Kufri may be a small hill station today, but it has an interesting history connected with Himachal Pradesh and British India. The name “Kufri” is believed to come from the word “Kufr,” which means lake. Earlier, this area was known for its natural water bodies and untouched beauty.
Before it became a tourist destination, Kufri was mostly a quiet region covered with forests and mountains. The area was ruled by local kings and was part of the princely states of Himachal. Later, during the British period, Shimla became the summer capital of India, and nearby places like Kufri started getting attention because of their cool climate and scenic landscapes.
The British officers and travelers often visited Kufri for relaxation and nature walks. Slowly, it became known as a peaceful getaway from the busy city life of Shimla. Over time, roads were built, and the area started developing as a tourist spot.
One of the most important parts of Kufri’s history is its connection with winter sports. It is believed that skiing started in Kufri many decades ago when the British introduced winter sports in this region. Even today, Kufri is considered one of the best places in Himachal Pradesh for skiing during snowfall season.
Another important attraction that developed later was the Himalayan Nature Park. This park was created to protect wildlife and show tourists the natural beauty of the Himalayan region. It became an important part of Kufri tourism and is still visited by thousands of people every year.
As tourism increased, small shops, hotels, and adventure activity centers started opening in Kufri. Local people began earning their livelihood through tourism by offering horse rides, guiding services, and selling local food and handicrafts.
Even though Kufri has developed over the years, it still maintains its natural charm and simplicity. Unlike big tourist cities, Kufri has managed to stay peaceful and close to nature. This is one of the reasons why tourists love coming here again and again.
How to Reach Kufri – Complete Travel Guide
Kufri is well connected by road and can be easily reached from Shimla. Since it is located close to Shimla, most tourists first reach Shimla and then travel to Kufri by taxi or local transport.
By Road
The easiest way to reach Kufri is by road. It is around 16 km from Shimla and takes about 40–50 minutes to reach. The road journey is very beautiful, with mountain views, pine trees, and valleys along the way.
Tourists can hire a taxi from Shimla or take a local bus. Private cars are also a good option if you are traveling with family. The roads are well maintained, and the journey is comfortable.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Shimla Railway Station. You can also reach Kalka Railway Station and then take the famous Kalka–Shimla toy train. This train journey is very scenic and a great experience for tourists.
After reaching Shimla, you can hire a taxi to Kufri.
By Air
The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti Airport in Shimla. From there, Kufri is around 35 km away. You can hire a taxi directly from the airport to reach Kufri.
From Delhi to Kufri
If you are traveling from Delhi, you can reach Shimla by bus, train, or car. The distance from Delhi to Shimla is around 350 km. From Shimla, Kufri is just a short drive away.
Traveling to Kufri is not difficult, and the journey itself is a beautiful experience. The mountain roads, cool breeze, and scenic views make the trip enjoyable.
Best Places to Visit in Kufri (Must-See Attractions)
Kufri is a small but beautiful hill destination near Shimla, known for snow, mountain views, and adventure spots. Here are the top places you should definitely visit when exploring Kufri:
1) Mahasu Peak
Mahasu Peak is the highest and most famous point in Kufri. From the top, you can enjoy stunning views of snow-covered Himalayan mountains and green valleys. To reach the peak, you can either trek or take a horse ride. It is the best place for photography and nature lovers.
2) Himalayan Nature Park
This park is perfect for wildlife and nature lovers. It is home to animals found in the Himalayan region like deer, leopards, and Himalayan birds. You can walk inside the park and enjoy the peaceful forest environment.
3) Kufri Fun World
Kufri Fun World is one of the highest amusement parks in the world. It is famous for adventure activities like ziplining, go-karting, and rides for kids and adults. During winter, it becomes a snow activity point where tourists enjoy skiing and snow games.
4) Green Valley
Green Valley is located on the way to Kufri from Shimla. It is a beautiful viewpoint surrounded by dense pine and deodar forests. Tourists usually stop here to take photos and enjoy the peaceful mountain scenery.
5) Fagu Valley
Fagu is a small village near Kufri known for its calm atmosphere and apple orchards. It offers breathtaking views of valleys and mountains. It is a great place for people who want to avoid crowds and enjoy nature.
6) Indira Tourist Park
This park is a relaxing spot where visitors can sit, enjoy snacks, and see beautiful mountain views. It is named after Indira Gandhi and is a good place to spend some peaceful time with family.
7) Apple Orchards
Kufri is surrounded by apple orchards. During the apple season, you can see trees full of apples and enjoy the fresh mountain environment. It gives a true Himachali village experience.
8) Kufri Zoo (Himalayan Wildlife Zoo)
Located near Mahasu Peak, this zoo is known for rare Himalayan animals like the snow leopard, musk deer, and Himalayan monal. It is a nice place to visit with kids and family.
9) Yak Ride Point
Yak riding is a famous activity in Kufri. Tourists enjoy taking photos while riding decorated yaks in snowy areas. It’s a fun and unique experience, especially for first-time visitors.
10) Kufri Snow Point (Winter Attraction)
During snowfall season, Snow Point becomes the most crowded and exciting place. Visitors come here to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowball fights, and snow photography.
These places make Kufri a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, couples, and families. A single day is enough to explore most of these spots, but staying longer allows you to enjoy the beauty more peacefully.
Travel Tips for Visiting Kufri (2026 Guide)
Planning your trip to Kufri becomes much easier when you know a few important travel tips in advance. Since Kufri is a mountain destination with changing weather and terrain, a little preparation can help you enjoy your journey without any problems. These practical tips will help you travel safely, save money, and make the most of your visit.
1) Visit Early in the Day
Kufri gets crowded, especially during peak tourist season and snowfall months. Try to reach early in the morning to avoid traffic, long waiting times for horse rides, and crowded viewpoints. Morning visits also offer clearer mountain views and better photography opportunities.
2) Carry Warm Clothes in Every Season
Even in summer, the weather in Kufri can be cool, especially in the morning and evening. In winter, the temperature drops very low, and snowfall makes the weather extremely cold. Always carry jackets, gloves, and warm clothes, particularly if you are visiting between December and February.
3) Wear Comfortable Shoes
To reach Mahasu Peak and other attractions, you may need to walk or take a horse ride on uneven paths. Wearing comfortable sports shoes or trekking shoes will make your journey much easier and safer.
4) Be Careful with Horse Ride Charges
Horse riding is one of the main ways to reach Mahasu Peak. Always confirm the price before starting the ride. Sometimes, tourists are charged extra at the end of the trip, so it’s better to fix the rate in advance.
5) Check Weather Before Planning Snow Trip
If you are visiting Kufri to see snowfall, check the weather forecast before planning your trip. Snowfall usually happens between late December and February, but exact timing can change each year.
6) Carry Cash
Small shops, food stalls, and local activity providers may not accept online payments. Keep some cash with you for entry tickets, snacks, horse rides, and local shopping.
7) Avoid Peak Holiday Rush
Weekends, Christmas, and New Year holidays are extremely crowded. If you want a peaceful experience, try visiting on weekdays.
8) Book Hotels in Advance During Winter
Winter is the most popular season in Kufri. Hotels get full quickly, so booking your stay in advance can save money and ensure availability.
9) Stay Hydrated and Eat Light
Due to high altitude and cold weather, some people may feel tired quickly. Drink water regularly and eat light meals to stay active throughout the day.
10) Respect Nature and Keep the Area Clean
Kufri is known for its natural beauty. Avoid throwing plastic or garbage in open areas. Help keep the environment clean so future travelers can enjoy it too.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Kufri Travel
Q1) Where is Kufri located?
Kufri is a small hill station located in Himachal Pradesh, about 16 km from Shimla. It is surrounded by mountains, forests, and valleys.
Q2) What is Kufri famous for?
Kufri is famous for snowfall, skiing, Mahasu Peak, horse riding, adventure activities, and beautiful mountain views.
Q3) What is the best time to visit Kufri?
- For snowfall: December to February
- For pleasant weather: March to June
- For greenery and peace: July to November
Q4) How far is Kufri from Shimla?
Kufri is around 16 kilometers from Shimla and takes about 40–50 minutes to reach by car.
Q5) Is Kufri worth visiting?
Yes, Kufri is definitely worth visiting, especially if you love nature, snow, and peaceful mountain environments. It is a perfect short trip from Shimla.
Q6) Can we see snow in Kufri?
Yes, Kufri receives snowfall during winter, mostly from late December to February. It is one of the best places near Shimla to enjoy snow activities.
Q7) Is Kufri good for a one-day trip?
Yes, Kufri is perfect for a one-day trip from Shimla. You can explore Mahasu Peak, Himalayan Nature Park, and enjoy adventure activities in one day.
Q8) Are there hotels in Kufri?
Yes, Kufri has many hotels, resorts, and homestays for different budgets, from affordable options to luxury stays.
Q9) What are the main things to do in Kufri?
- Skiing in winter
- Horse riding to Mahasu Peak
- Visiting Himalayan Nature Park
- Trekking and photography
- Enjoying scenic views
Q10) Is Kufri safe for families and couples?
Yes, Kufri is a safe and family-friendly destination. It is also popular among honeymoon couples because of its peaceful environment and romantic views.
