Narkanda located at a distance of 64 km from Shimla. It situated at the northeast side of Shimla city. Narkanda reached by Hindustan Tibet road via Sanjauli, Dhalli, Theog, and Matiana. Narkanda is famous because of skiing slopes. Moreover, there are many other things to do near Narkanda.
Skiing in Narkanda
Narkanda has very favorable geography for skiing. There are slopes where even a novice can do this activity. Skiing activities conducted here by (HPTDC) Himachal Tourism development corporation and Directorate of mountaineering and allied sports jointly. Skiing courses also provided by Directorate of mountaineering and allied sports Manali. Skiing activities start in January and last till mid of March in Narkanda.
Skiing novice can undertake a course on the sperate slope for a beginner. Equipment and trainer provided by authorities. Apart from this, there is also an arrangement for accommodation and food. There are also best slopes for trained ski enthusiast. Tourist has the option to rent equipment.
Trek to Hatu Peak (3300 m)
Hatu peak is also a well-known trek route near Narkanda. It is 8 km trek (One side) from Narkanda. You can come back till evening. Another way to reach on the top is by a jeepable road. You also have the option to make a camp at Hatu peak for an overnight stay. Keep water and food with you for an overnight stay.
The trek is through the forest of rhododendron, walnuts, and deodar. There is a temporary shelter of Gujjars on the way. Gujjar comes here in summers with their buffalos. Hatu Mata temple located on the top of hills. At the top of the hill, you can see rolling mountains and valleys of Rohru. A spectacular view of Theog and Shimla is also available from south and east side. If you can walk one hour
Tanu Jubar Lake
Tanu Jubar lake located at a distance of 12 km from Narkanda. It is a small artificial water pond encircled by a paved path. This place is ideal to have a picnic for the full day. This area surrounded by trees of Deodar, Spur, and oak. You can stay here in an overnight camp. A temple of Nag Devta situated in Tani Jubbar. An annual fair organized in this temple by locals.
Visit Stokes Farm
Strokes farm located in Thanedar 14 km from Narkanda. Stroke farm is an apple orchard of Mr. Smeuel Satyand Strokes. Samuel Satynand Strokes was an American sailor. He started plantation of Apple trees first time in Shimla in 1916. He married a local girl and stelled in Himachal after this. You can buy locally processed apple wine and jam in Thanedar. Best time to this place is at the time of apple season in Himachal.
Shopping in Narkanda
There is a small local market in Narkanda. You can buy a locally made Shawl, Pattu, Himachali Cap and Pullans. Pullans is woolen shoes wear indoor. You can even buy boxes of local apple during apple season.
Mahamaya Temple
Mahamaya temple located at a distance of 7 km from Narkanda. This temple situated on the hilltop. It delivers a perfect view of rolling mountains and apple orchards. Temple devoted to goddess Kali. It is perfect sight for peace lovers. This is a venue for meditation and soul-searching.