Kufri – Switzerland of the East

As exciting as its name, Kufri is another holiday destination of north India that is gaining a lot of importance among tourists these days. The name Kufri comes from the word ‘Kufr’ which means lake. 19 kilometers away from Shimla, Kufri is a popular spot for ski slopes. In fact, Kufri possesses the oldest skiing slopes of Himachal Pradesh.

The thick forests, deep valleys and sky-high snow-capped mountains make it an ideal place to spend a memorable vacation. Be it a summer break, a honeymoon or an adventure trip, Kufri is just the perfect place for all sorts of excursions.

Also known as the Switzerland of the East, Kufri is particularly well-known for its adventure sports activities such as tobogganing, skiing, hiking, trekking etc.

The fascinating beauty of hill station Kufri remained totally unexplored but only until Britishers identified it as a major tourist place near Shimla which was their summer capital. It was only after this time that Kufri became popular among nature and adventure loving people.

Must read – Shimla – The Queen of Hill Stations

Major attractions in Kufri

• Himalaya Nature Park – Situated on the outskirts of Kufri town is the Himalayan Nature Park, a complete delight for all the lovers of nature and wildlife. Covering an area of 90 hectares, the park is a house to a wide variety of fauna including musk deer, barking deer, black bear, leopard cat and cheer pheasant. One can also relish camping in this park, while the camping facilities available here are very limited.
• Mahasu Peak – The highest peak in the Kufri region from where the ranges like Badrinath and Kedarnath can be seen clearly is the Mahasu Peak. Being the highest peak of Kufri, this is also the most popular spot for adventure sports activities for which Kufri is renowned. Being the highest point, it also offers a great and complete view of the picturesque valley. You may also take a chance to visit the Nag Devta temple, a temple dedicated to the Snake God (Kufri’s local diety) while you are on your visit to the Mahasu Peak.
• Fagu – Located at a distance of about 6 kms from Kufri, Fagu region lies between two valleys that are enveloped by forests and apple orchards. Its interesting ski routes make it a perfect place for winter sports festivals that are organized here every year. This small village offers a view to the Giri valley and also has a tourist bungalow on its top.
• Kufri Fun World  – is another major tourist attraction in Kufri.

Other important places to visit near Kufri

Most of the people who plan to spend a vacation in Kufri visit Shimla and Chail as well which are the two most favorite nearby destinations among tourists. These three places- Shimla, Kufri and Chail together form the Golden Triangle of Himachal Pradesh.

Fairs  and  festivals

An annual National Snow Statue competition is held in Kufri every year in the month of January. Another major festival that is awaited by skiing and adventure loving people all over the country is the annual winter sports festival held in the month of February.

Best time to visit

The natural beauty of Kufri is at its best during winters when the entire valley and the surrounding mountains are covered with snow. The months from November to February are a time of pure bliss for adventure lovers if they visit Kufri. The place is flocked by tourists at this time. While if want to relax amidst the enchanting and serene surroundings of this strikingly gorgeous place, then plan your trip between the months of April and June. The spellbinding and miraculous natural surroundings will surely give you lots of memories to cherish lifelong.

How to Reach

The best way to reach Kufri is via Shimla which is the major town close to it only at a distance of about 19 kilometers. First you can reach Shimla and thereafter conveniently hire bus or taxi to reach Kufri which is connected to Shimla by National Highway 22.

By Air – The nearest airport is the Jubbarhatti airport or the Shimla airport at a distance of 34 km from Kufri. It is not an international airport but well connected with regular flights from Delhi and Chandigarh.

By Rail – Kalka is the nearest broad gauge line further connected to Shimla by narrow gauge. One can also enjoy a ride from Kalka to Shimla in the famous toy train which passes through several tunnels and bridges to reach Shimla in 6 hours.

Road – Kufri is connected to National Highway No. 22. Also, there are regular buses and taxis plying from Shimla to Kufri.