The environs and suburbs of Shimla are perhaps its most attractive feature. Golf at beautiful Annandale and at scenic Naldera – that inspired Lord Curzon to name his daughter after it; Trout fishing in the Tirthan Valley and hot sulphur springs at Tattapani , picnics in the Seog Forest , tea at Carignano, walks from Kufri to Fagu through the countryside with the panorama of the snow-capped KinnerKailash range stretched across the horizon; Chail, Narkanda , or an overnight stay at the Jalori Pass.

Listed below are some interesting short day trips that can be made from Shimla, leaving after breakfast to return by late afternoon or early evening.

Mashobra– A Curated Experience

Mashobra is one of the prettiest suburbs of Shimla but in recent years has witnessed frenetic construction activity. The only reason why Mashobra remains relatively unspoiled is that most of the area consisting of 5 properties i.e Kenilworth, Edelweiss, CosyNook, Honnington and Sherwood were owned by HH Maharaja of Faridkot but since his death have become the subject of a long standing family dispute. Mashobra enjoys lovely views of the mountains, the snow peaks and the valleys.

We at Chapslee are happy to curate a special day sojourn to Mashobra which includes a drive past the pretty spots, a guided walk through the pine forests followed by lunch at an exclusive location.

After breakfast at Chapslee, drive for 35 minutes to reach the entrance to Mashobra village. Drive through the quaint Mashobra Bazaar and pick up some fresh strawberries ( if in season) then continue on the single road with fabulous views of mountains and snows and past all the Faridkot properties till you come to the Mashobra pond. This is quaint spot with a small meadow. There is a lovely Kali Temple built in the Pahadi style with some impressive wood carvings. Drive on to the nature park at Craignano, another pretty spot. From there begins your walk into the pine forests with a local guide. Watch out for deer and a plethora of interesting birds. Your destination is an exclusive spot where you can rest your legs and enjoy a packed lunch while admiring the fabulous views of the valley beyond and the majestic Shali Tibba. In the afternoon if you feel up to it, you can walk down to see a typical Himachali village and meet with the locals. Then in the late afternoon, make your way back to the car and drive back to Chapslee.

Seog Forest.

The Seog Catchment Area is the thickest forest cover in and around Shimla and at one point of time Shimla’s water supply used to come from here. It is situated in the outskirts of Shimla and it is a half an hour drive from Chapslee to the entrance gate which is located just as the climb to Kufri begins. You need to take a pass/ entry ticket from the Forest check post. It is about an 8km walk to the beautiful Seog Rest house at the heart of the catchment area. You will have thick majestic deodars all the way through and will encounter a variety of birds. After having a packed lunch at the forest rest house, you can visit the catchment area and then make your way back to your car and then back to Chapslee.

Golfing/Picnicking at Naldera and a drive through Mashobra

A 45 minute to an hour’s drive from Chapslee, the Naldera Golf Course is a beautiful 9 hole golf course and a very picturesque spot to visit. For those not interested in playing the game, the Deodar covered environs around the course are a wonderful place to picnic although the crowds of tourists on weekends especially during the summer months can spoil all the fun. On the way back turn in from the Mashobra bazaar and drive to the Mashobra Pond for a hot cup of tea and pakoras before heading back to Chapslee.

Visit to Dhami

Dhami was one of the erstwhile hill states neighbouring Shimla and the erstwhile family still reside there. Kanwar Dushyant Singh is a keen naturalist and ornithologist. An hour’s drive gets you to the quaint village of Dhami and to his residence. Walk with him to the village and the surrounding areas to be enlightened by the local history, customs and a visit to his orchard and return to his residence for an elaborate meal cooked by his gracious wife. Head back to Chapslee in the afternoon in time for tea!

Tara Devi Temple walk

For those who enjoy walking in the forests, this is an ideal excursion. Tara Devi is 9.5 km from Shimla and is famous for the Tara Devi Temple which offers a fabulous view of the mountains and valleys. Travel by car to a point close to Tara Devi and then begin a beautiful walk through the deodar and pine forests, picnicking on the way for lunch. Your walk will end at the Tara Devi Temple, from where you can come back to Shimla by car.