Kufri, a word originating from “kufr” meaning lake in the local dialect, is a must-visit destination in India. This hill station located in Himachal Pradesh, just 20 km from the state capital Shimla, offers a vibrant blend of natural beauty and favorable weather conditions. With a rich cultural background and various activities to participate in, Kufri offers a unique experience to its visitors. There are so many things to do in Kufri. Today, it serves as a gateway to other popular tourist spots like Shimla, Manali, and Rewalsar, attracting a high volume of tourists. For those seeking a snow-covered mountain and chilly climate adventure, Kufri is the ideal destination. Situated 14 km from Shimla, this breathtaking location showcases the perfect combination of natural beauty and cultural diversity, making it a popular spot for tourists to engage in sports adventures.
If you’re looking to experience the best of Himachal Pradesh, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of must-do activities for tourists. From fun family experiences to romantic getaways with your significant other, or even solo adventures, this list has something for everyone. Each activity comes with a description and suggestions for the perfect destinations, making it easy for you to plan your itinerary.
Skiing and Heli-Skiing
Kufri is a winter wonderland for ski enthusiasts. With its sloping terrain that caters to both novice and advanced skiers, Kufri is an ideal destination for those looking to experience the thrill of skiing from November to February. The Mahasu Peak, specifically, is a popular ski spot and the state tourism department offers a range of courses for those who wish to learn the sport.
Renting skiing gear is also convenient, with many places in Kufri offering the equipment for visitors. Whether you’re visiting Kufri with loved ones or as a solo adventurer, skiing is a thrilling activity that can be easily learned with proper motivation and training. If you’re not comfortable with skiing yourself, you can always choose to be a spectator and witness the excitement of winter sports events.
Tourist season and off-season timing: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Winter season timing: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
The best time to visit: Winter, for its ideal powder snow conditions for skiing.
Trekking
Trekking is an adventurous activity that allows one to connect with nature and explore breathtaking landscapes while physically challenging oneself. The moderate trekking trails in Kufri offer a great opportunity for people to connect with nature and escape the fast-paced city life. The hill station is also a starting point for popular trekking destinations such as Manali, Shimla, Rewalsar, and Fagu.
For solo travelers, trekking on the various trails in Kufri is an experience worth having. The majestic mountain peaks, blooming flora, and fresh air all make for an unforgettable trekking adventure. One of the most popular trekking trails is the Mahasu Peak Trail, which is famous for skiing during winter and offers a breathtaking trekking experience in the summer. The trek to the Mahasu Peak provides panoramic views of the Kedarnath and Badrinath mountain ranges.
Best time to visit: Any time around the year
Price: ranges from Rs.2000-5000
Camping
If you are looking for a relaxed adventure activity that caters to all tourists, camping might be a perfect choice. Kufri has gained popularity among camping enthusiasts, attracting more and more visitors each year. One of the most sought-after camping sites in Kufri is the Snow Trail camping ground, which is located along the Kufri-Chail road and stands at an elevation of approximately 2200 meters.
Families looking for an easy camping experience with proper sanitation and food facilities can find several camping sites with all the necessary amenities readily available online. However, solo travelers and backpackers may have to look for camping spots in certain forest areas, where it is advisable to check beforehand if prior permission is required. Another option for a picnic and camping experience is Faqu, which is situated around 7 kilometers from Kufri and boasts breathtaking scenic beauty.
Best time to visit: October to January
Price: ranges from Rs.5000-15000
Tobogganing
Tobogganing, a heart-racing winter activity, has been gaining popularity in scenic destinations like Kufri in recent times. This adventurous sport involves gliding down a snow-covered slope on a sled. The optimal time to participate in this activity is during the months of December and January when the snow cover is at its thickest. Visitors who plan on traveling to Himachal Pradesh during the winter season should make sure to add Tobogganing to their itinerary. Kufri is a prime location for this exciting sport, where the slopes are perfect for gliding down on a Toboggan.
Share the thrill of the moment with friends and family as you ride down the slope as a team of two. Tobogganing is not only an adrenaline-pumping activity, but it also allows you to enjoy the winter landscapes and scenic beauty of Kufri. The white, snow-covered slopes and the chilly winds make it an unforgettable experience. So, if you’re looking for a fun and thrilling winter adventure, Tobogganing in Kufri is the way to go.
Best time to visit: May to June and October to February
Average Price: Rs.500
Horse Riding and Yak Riding
Traveling to Kufri is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy horseback riding and yak riding, both of which are popular activities for families and couples alike. These experiences are suitable for all ages, making them the perfect way for families to spend quality time together. Young children will love the gentle pace of a yak ride, while older tourists and couples can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Mahasu Peak on horseback.
Couples on their honeymoon can make their trip even more special by choosing horseback riding, while experienced riders can take longer rides to fully immerse themselves in the stunning surroundings. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer, horseback riding is a thrilling and memorable experience.
Best time to visit: May to June and October to February
Average Price: Rs.300- 500
Hiking
For those seeking an immersive and rejuvenating experience in nature, the Mahasu Peak trail in Kufri provides a perfect opportunity for hiking. The picturesque trail takes you through a dense forest of deodar and spruce trees, offering a serene escape from the city’s chaos. The winter season is particularly ideal, with snow-covered landscapes that create a magical, enchanting atmosphere.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner looking to build up your stamina, the Mahasu Peak trail is the perfect starting point. The hike to the peak provides stunning views of the Badrinath and Kedarnath ranges, making it an unforgettable experience. Not only does hiking offer a great workout, but it also provides an opportunity to detoxify your body with fresh, clean air.
Hiking in Kufri offers a unique opportunity for tourists to not only experience nature but also challenge themselves physically. With varying levels of difficulty, hikers of all skill levels can find a suitable trail.
Best time to visit: Summers
Average Price: Free
River rafting
For adventure enthusiasts, Chamba, near Kufri located in the heart of Himachal Pradesh, is known for its natural beauty and outdoor adventure activities. One of the most popular attractions for adrenaline seekers is river rafting. This water sport takes thrill-seekers down the rapids of rushing rivers, providing a unique combination of breathtaking views and intense excitement.
The rafting routes can last anywhere from 1-2 hours, providing a memorable and unforgettable experience. Whether you are a seasoned rafter or new to the sport, river rafting in Chamba is an activity not to be missed. With its stunning surroundings and thrilling rapids, it’s no wonder why this water sport has become so popular among tourists visiting the area. So, if you’re looking for an adventure that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime, be sure to add river rafting in Chamba to your bucket list.
Best time to visit: September to June
Average Price: Rs. 1000
Paragliding
Kufri is a true paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. With its rolling hills, pristine forests, and vast expanses of greenery, Kufri is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. In addition to its natural beauty, Kufri also offers a range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. From challenging treks to leisurely picnics, Kufri caters to every interest and activity level.
One of the most popular activities in Kufri is paragliding. This exciting sport gives participants a bird’s eye view of the stunning landscapes below and provides a unique and thrilling experience. With experienced guides and state-of-the-art equipment, paragliding in Kufri is both safe and exhilarating. Whether you’re an experienced paraglider or a first-time flyer, Kufri is the perfect destination for you.
Best time to visit: November to February
Average Price: Rs. 3500
Photography
Photography in Kufri is a delight for shutterbugs. The stunning views of the Himalayan ranges, the serene landscape dotted with pine trees, and the picturesque valleys covered in snow during the winter months make Kufri a perfect destination for nature photography. With the adventure sports like skiing and snowboarding taking center stage during winter, action photography is also popular here. Visitors can capture moments of thrill and excitement on their cameras as they glide down the slopes. The famous Kufri Fun World amusement park, with its joy rides and scenic views, is another hot spot for tourists who enjoy capturing memories of their travels. Whether it’s capturing the stillness of nature or the rush of adrenaline, Kufri promises to deliver for all photographers.
Best time to visit: Anytime around the year
Average Price: Free
Ice Skating
Ice skating is a highly popular sport in Shimla and it’s easy to see why. With the only naturally formed ice skating rink in South Asia located in the area, people of all ages come to this stunning location to hone their skills and spend quality time with their loved ones. The Shimla ice skating rink has been a hub of activity and sports since the 1920s and is the perfect place to engage in various recreational activities. Each year, an annual carnival and a national-level competition is hosted at this rink, making it an exciting destination for visitors and locals alike.
For those seeking a thrilling and entertaining experience, ice skating at the Shimla rink is a perfect choice. Don’t forget to bring your cameras along, as the white snow-covered background creates a breathtaking scene from the rink. So come and join in the fun at the largest and most renowned ice skating rink in South Asia.
Location- Ice-Skating Rink Shimla Address, Lakkar Bazar, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, 171007, India
Best time to visit: December to February ( Peak Winter season)
Price: Rs.800
Sightseeing in Shimla
Located just 14 kilometers from Kufri, Shimla’s mall road is the center of all the action. From shopping for unique handicrafts and textiles to savoring delicious local cuisine, this bustling street has it all. Some of the most sought-after souvenirs include Tibetan handicrafts and luxurious Pashmina shawls. Shimla’s mall road is a popular hub for travelers seeking adventure, shopping, and dining experiences. Known for its stunning views and rich cultural heritage, Shimla is a top choice for domestic tourists visiting the state of Himachal Pradesh. Whether you’re on your honeymoon or just looking for a fun day out with loved ones, Shimla offers something for everyone.
For those who love to immerse themselves in cultural events, Shimla is the perfect destination. From the famous Lakkar Bazaar to other local markets, visitors can find authentic traditional crafts and textiles. With its beautiful scenery and rich history, it’s no wonder Shimla is often included in holiday packages offered by travel agencies. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, a trip to Shimla is a must-visit experience in Himachal Pradesh.
Best time to visit: Peak Winter season
Price: Free
Ziplining
Zip lining is one such exciting activity that tourists visiting Kufri should definitely experience. This activity involves traveling through the air on a zip line, which is a rope and pulley system suspended between two points. The zip line in Kufri takes you on a journey that is 70 feet high and 500 feet long. One of the unique aspects of zip lining in Kufri is that 60 people can take this ride together at the same time, making it a fun group activity.
It is important to keep in mind that children below the age of 12 years are not allowed to participate in zip lining and that you should carry valid ID proof and booking vouchers. The best time to visit Kufri for zip lining is from November to February. So, if you are looking for an exciting adventure activity in Kufri, zip lining is a must-try!
Best time to visit: November to February
Price: Rs.500- Rs.3500
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kufri offers a wide range of activities for travelers seeking an enriching travel experience. From thrilling adventures like skiing, heli-skiing, tobogganing, paragliding and ziplining to more leisurely activities such as ice-skating, horse riding, yak riding and photography, Kufri has something for everyone. Adventure enthusiasts can also try their hand at rock climbing, river rafting, trekking, camping, and hiking. With so many activities on offer, Kufri is sure to provide a memorable and fulfilling experience for travelers of all ages and interests. So, make sure to include Kufri in your travel itinerary and experience all that this beautiful destination has to offer.
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