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Shimla to Narkanda

Drive along the majestic Hindustan-Tibet Highway (NH-5) to Narkanda, a winter wonderland nestled in apple orchards. Visit the serene Tanni Jubbar Lake and conquer the steep ascent to Hatu Peak for 360-degree Himalayan panoramas. Be aware of potential road closures due to weather conditions, especially during monsoon. An entry toll of ₹100 per day is applicable for non-Himachal registered private vehicles. A perfect romantic escape offering snow-clad pines, cozy stays, and authentic Himachali cuisine. Note: IMD has issued an active monsoon alert for Himachal Pradesh, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds, with a wet spell continuing until at least September 9, 2026. Expect widespread landslides, flash floods, waterlogging, reduced visibility, and traffic disruption. Exercise extreme caution and check local advisories before and during travel. The Himachal Pradesh Road Infrastructure Protection (Amendment) Bill, 2026, passed on September 4, 2026, also allows for road restrictions or closures for maintenance. Additionally, be aware of recent reports of fuel shortages and long queues at petrol pumps across Himachal Pradesh, and note that fuel prices have increased by 60 paise per litre due to a new 'Orphan and Widow Cess' effective August 11, 2026.

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Verified · 6 Oct 2026 · Active
SSankhadeep Paul→
Roads: GoodSafe for WomenBeginner Friendly

📅 Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Shimla → Narkanda

10:00 AM — Depart Shimla

Start leisurely from Shimla. Take the Sanjauli bypass to enter NH5 (Hindustan-Tibet Road). Note: IMD has issued an active monsoon alert for Himachal Pradesh, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds, with a wet spell continuing until at least September 9, 2026. Expect widespread landslides, flash floods, waterlogging, reduced visibility, and traffic disruption. Exercise extreme caution and check local advisories before and during travel. The Himachal Pradesh Road Infrastructure Protection (Amendment) Bill, 2026, passed on September 4, 2026, also allows for road restrictions or closures for maintenance. Also, be aware of potential fuel shortages and long queues at petrol pumps in Himachal Pradesh, and note that fuel prices have increased by 60 paise per litre due to a new 'Orphan and Widow Cess' effective August 11, 2026.

0 km

11:30 AM — Tea Break at Fagu

Stop at HPTDC Apple Blossom or a roadside stall in Fagu. Enjoy the view of the valley which is often better than Kufri.

20 km

1:30 PM — Arrive Narkanda & Lunch

Reach Narkanda market. Lunch at the famous New Himalaya Negi Dhaba. Must try: Mutton Curry or Veg Thali with local Siddu.

63 km

3:30 PM — Tanni Jubbar Lake

Drive 10km towards Thanedar to visit this serene, oval-shaped lake surrounded by apple orchards and Nag Devta temple.

85 km

6:00 PM — Check-in

Return to Narkanda. Check into Hotel Hatu or similar. Enjoy a bonfire if available.

95 km

Day 2: Hatu Peak & Return

8:00 AM — Drive to Hatu Peak

Drive 7km up to Hatu Peak. Visit the wooden Hatu Mata Temple. Enjoy 360-degree views of Pir Panjal ranges.

7 km

⚠️ Road is extremely narrow and steep. The road to Hatu Peak may be affected by ongoing monsoon conditions. Caution is advised due to its challenging nature and the current active monsoon, with a wet spell continuing until at least September 9, 2026. Consider hiring a local 4x4 taxi from Narkanda if not confident with mountain driving. Additionally, be aware of IMD's active monsoon alert for Himachal Pradesh, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds. Exercise extreme caution due to widespread landslides, flash floods, waterlogging, reduced visibility, traffic disruption, and potential road closures. The Himachal Pradesh Road Infrastructure Protection (Amendment) Bill, 2026, passed on September 4, 2026, also allows for road restrictions or closures for maintenance. Check local advisories for Hatu Peak road status before attempting the ascent. Also, be aware of potential fuel shortages in Himachal Pradesh, and note that fuel prices have increased by 60 paise per litre due to a new 'Orphan and Widow Cess' effective August 11, 2026.

11:00 AM — Skiing Point / Market Stroll

Return to Narkanda. If snow permits, try basic skiing at the Dhumri ski slopes near the hotel.

14 km

1:00 PM — Lunch & Return

Grab a quick lunch at the market and begin the descent back to Shimla.

14 km

4:00 PM — Reach Shimla

Arrive back in Shimla. End of trip.

75 km

💰 Cost Breakdown

Estimated Total₹6,644 - ₹14,144
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Per-day cost breakdown locked.
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📋 Packing Checklist

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17-item route-specific packing list locked.
Tuned for this route's terrain, weather, and altitude.

Both days are yours to read

Take Shimla to Narkanda with you

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✓ Verified 6 days ago by a partner rider

  • Offline PDF, all 2 days9 stops
  • Fuel₹1,144
  • Stay₹3,000 - ₹7,000
  • Food₹2,000 - ₹4,000
  • Packing list for this route17 items

30 days · every trip · no auto-renew · refund policy