Explore the most thrilling adventure activities in Shimla

 In Adventure, adventure activities, Himachal Pradesh, Places To Visit, Shimla, Things to do, Travel

Shimla, often referred to as the “Queen of Hill Stations,” is a captivating place to visit in Himachal pradesh. This picturesque town allures visitors with its majestic snow-capped peaks, lush greenery, and charming colonial architecture. Year after year, people visit here to enjoy the stunning views and beautiful scenery with the recommended Himachal tour package.

A haven for adventure enthusiasts, Shimla offers a thrilling array of outdoor activities, including trekking, paragliding, and river rafting. As you plan your journey to Shimla, discovering these exhilarating adventures will undoubtedly add a touch of excitement and thrill to your exploration of this enchanting destination.

15 Best Activities in Shimla Himachal Pradesh

Here is a list of the most popular adventure activities in Shimla that you all adventure buffs should try on your vacation. 

  1. Camping
  2. Fishing
  3. Trekking
  4. River Rafting
  5. Paragliding
  6. Ice Skating
  7. Skiing
  8. Cycle Tour
  9. Mountain Cycling
  10. Rock Climbing
  11. Heli-Skiing
  12. Hiking
  13. Golfing
  14. Zip Lining
  15. Photography

1. Camping

camping

Picture yourself camping under the dazzling starlit sky, surrounded by majestic mountains and tranquil streams. Shimla is the ultimate destination for a thrilling camping adventure, offering the perfect blend of nature and excitement. You can experience the cozy ambiance with crackling bonfires and the chance to connect with your loved ones in a truly magical setting. Camping in Shimla isn’t just an activity – it’s an unforgettable adventure in Shimla that will leave you in awe of the stunning natural surroundings. 

  • Ideal For: Friends and family
  • Best Time: April to August, December to January
  • Cost: 2599 INR – 11997 INR
  • Location: Jakhoo hill, Summer hills, Bantony hill, Observatory hill, Elysium hill
  • Stay Options: Tents
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Tip: Carry warm clothes and all other essentials.

2. Fishing

fishing

Fishing is one of the top adventure activities in Shimla because it has many shallow streams. It’s known as ‘Angler’s Paradise’ and is famous for Rainbow and Brown, the best sport fish in the world. Sangla valley in Shimla is also popular for its abundance of trout. One of the best spots for fishing is Rohru, located in Pabbar valley, followed by many others.

  • Ideal For: Friends, adults
  • Best Time: March to June
  • Cost: 400 INR onwards
  • Location: Rohru near Pabbar Valley, Tikri, Dhamvari, Seema, Mandil
  • Stay Options: Cottages, camps, hotels
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Tip: Take your equipment or rent them

3. Trekking in Shimla

trekking-in-shimla

There are great opportunities for trekking in Shimla one of the best adventure activities in Shimla. You can enjoy challenging treks or take leisurely strolls through the forests. A relaxing trek can be found at Jakhoo Temple, the highest point in Shimla. Another recommended trek is the Banjar Valley Trek, which showcases the magical beauty of Shimla.

  • Ideal For: friends, youth and family
  • Best Time: March to June, October to February
  • Cost: Starts from 1,650 INR
  • Location: Jakhoo Temple, Chadwick Falls, Kamna Devi Temple, Banjar Valley Trek
  • Stay Options: Camps, cottages
  • Difficulty Level: Easy to Difficult
  • Tip: Carry your trekking shoes and comfortable clothes.

4. River Rafting

river-rafting

This place has breathtaking scenery and numerous streams and water bodies, making it perfect for water activities. One of the popular adventure activities in Shimla is river rafting, enjoyed by youth and adults seeking excitement. Participants use an inflatable rubber dinghy for this activity, with the cost varying based on its duration. The preferred route for river rafting is from Chabba to Tattapani.

  • Ideal For: friends, youth and adults
  • Best Time: March to June, October to February
  • Cost: 1,500 INR per person for a stretch of 15KM. The raft can also be booked by a single person that would cost 6,000 INR.
  • Location: Chabba to Tattapani
  • Stay Options: hotels, cottages
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Tip: Follow all the instructions.

5. Paragliding

paragliding

Paragliding offers an exhilarating experience, allowing you to glide through the sky like a carefree bird. It has become one of the most popular adventure activities in Shimla, providing an adrenaline rush for enthusiasts. The activity allows you to enjoy a 360-degree view of the beautiful landscape, making the experience truly worthwhile. It requires less space for landing and is best suited for lighter winds.

  • Paragliding Sites Near Shimla

Chail: Located about 45 km from Shimla, Chail is one of the best adventure places in Shimla offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The take-off point is usually from higher elevations, ensuring longer flights and better views.

Kufri: Just 16 km from Shimla, Kufri is famous for its winter sports and also offers paragliding experiences during the summer months. The flights here provide breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges. It is one of the famous places to visit in Shimla.

Naldehra: Known for its golf course and scenic beauty, Naldehra offers a serene setting for paragliding with flights that take you over lush green meadows and pine forests.

  • Ideal For: Youth, adults
  • Best Time: March to May, October to November
  • Cost: 2,500 INR per person for a tenure of 15 to 20 minutes
  • Location: Chail, Kufri, Naldehra
  • Stay Options: Cottages, Hotels, Resorts
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
  • Tip: Follow all the instructions.

6. Ice Skating

ice-skating

Ice skating in Shimla is a popular winter activity. You can enjoy it from December to February when it snows. The ice skating rink is near Mall Road and has a beautiful view. It’s open to everyone, even if you’ve never skated before. You can rent skates and get lessons there. It’s a great experience to skate surrounded by the Himalayas and the festive atmosphere of Shimla.

  • Ideal For: Youth, adults
  • Best Time: October to February
  • Cost: 100 INR to 500 INR
  • Location: Near Mall Road
  • Stay Options: Resorts, Hotels
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Tip: Take skating classes

7. Skiing

skiing

Skiing at Mahasu Ridge and Hatu Peak near Shimla offers exciting experiences with stunning views of the Himalayas. Mahasu Ridge is great for beginners and intermediate skiers with gentle slopes and panoramic views. It’s a perfect place to learn and practice skiing while enjoying the peaceful snowy landscape. Hatu Peak, on the other hand, has more challenging slopes that attract advanced skiers looking for exhilarating runs and breathtaking scenery. Its higher altitude means longer skiing seasons, usually from December to March, making it a top choice for winter sports enthusiasts. Both places offer unforgettable skiing adventures in Shimla with opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty and excitement of the Himalayas.

  • Ideal For: Youth, adults
  • Best Time: January to March
  • Cost: INR 300 to 500 per person
  • Location: Mahasu Ridge, Hattu Peak
  • Stay Options: Cottages, Tents
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
  • Tip: Follow all the instructions

Suggested Read: Top Eateries in Shimla: Places to Eat in Shimla 

8. Cycle Tour

cycle-tour

Shimla has beautiful views, making it perfect for nature lovers. One great way to explore the natural beauty is through a cycle tour. You can relax in green surroundings while cycling through Shimla Water Catchment Wildlife Sanctuary, but you need to get permission from the Wildlife Department first. During your cycle tour, you may encounter eagles, leopards, and foxes. You can easily rent a cycle to explore the wildlife and spot various species such as deer, monkeys, and leopards.

  • Ideal For: Friends, Couples, Adults
  • Best Time: March to May, September to October
  • Cost: INR 200 per cycle
  • Location: NH 22, Charabra Mashobra
  • Stay Options: Camps, Cottages
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate
  • Tip: Be safe on the road and maintain a moderate speed

9. Mountain Cycling

mountain-cycling

Mountain cycling is one of the exciting adventure activities in Shimla through scenic trails amidst the Himalayan foothills. Shimla and its surrounding areas have a range of terrain, from easy slopes to challenging mountain paths, suitable for cyclists of all skill levels. You can explore dense forests, charming villages, and breathtaking viewpoints while enjoying the serene beauty of Shimla’s natural landscapes. You can rent a mountain bike for 10 hours, starting from 9 am to 7 pm. Rental services are available and local operators offer guided tours, allowing mountain cycling enthusiasts to experience thrilling descents and satisfying climbs. 

  • Ideal For: Friends, Couples and adults
  • Best Time: March to Mat, September to October
  • Cost: Starts from INR 200 per person and is charged as per hours
  • Location: Cart Road
  • Stay Options: Cottages, Hotels
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
  • Tip: Be careful and maintain a moderate speed

10. Rock Climbing

rock-climbing

Shimla offers a variety of activities for adventure enthusiasts. Rock climbing is one of the best adventure activities in Shimla. This thrilling adventure attracts climbers to its rugged terrain and scenic surroundings. Shimla has several natural rock formations and climbing sites suitable for all levels, from beginners to experienced climbers. Some popular spots include the rocks near Chadwick Falls, one of the amazing places to visit in Shimla in one day as well as areas around Mashobra and Chail. Climbers can enjoy scaling cliffs and boulders while admiring panoramic views of the Himalayan foothills. Whether for a day trip or a multi-day expedition, Shimla promises an exhilarating experience amidst its natural beauty and challenging rock formations. Guided by experienced instructors and equipped with safety gear, climbers can safely enjoy this exciting activity.

  • Ideal For: Youth, adults
  • Best Time: June to September
  • Cost: 400 INR onwards
  • Location: Chail, Mashobra, Chadwick Falls
  • Stay Options: Camps, cottages
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
  • Tip: Follow all the instructions.

11. Heli-Skiing

heli-skiing

Heli-skiing in Shimla is a thrilling adventure activity in Shimla. In this exclusive sport, a helicopter transports skiers and snowboarders to remote, untouched slopes that are inaccessible by other means. The pristine snowfields and high-altitude peaks of Shimla provide ideal conditions for heli-skiing, attracting experienced snow sports enthusiasts looking for fresh powder and challenging descents. These trips are usually organized during the winter months, offering breathtaking views and exhilarating runs down the untouched snow. 

Heli-skiing in Shimla combines heart-pounding action with the serene beauty of the Himalayan wilderness, creating an unforgettable experience for adventurers seeking the ultimate skiing thrill.The slopes of Narkanda and Kufri are the best places for indulging in this activity while enjoying the natural beauty the place offers. 

  • Ideal For: Youth and adults
  • Best Time: January to February
  • Cost: 7 day packages start from 5,50,000 INR
  • Location: Narkanda, Kufri
  • Stay Options: Hotels, resorts
  • Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult
  • Tip: Follow all the instructions

12. Hiking

hiking

Hiking ranks among the top adventure activities in Shimla, offering a perfect blend of scenic beauty, exploration, and physical challenge. Shimla has many hiking trails that wind through lush forests and meadows with wildflowers. The trails also offer panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains. Popular trails include:

  • Jakhoo Hill: Known for its Hanuman Temple and stunning views of Shimla city.
  • Glen Forest Trail: A peaceful hike through dense deodar forests with glimpses of local wildlife.
  • Chadwick Falls: A scenic trek leading to a mesmerizing waterfall surrounded by verdant landscapes.

Many of Shimla’s hiking trails reveal its rich cultural and historical heritage. Along these trails, you can see colonial-era buildings, ancient temples, and local villages, which provide a deeper understanding of Shimla’s past and present.

  • Ideal For: Friends, couples and adults
  • Best Time: March to May, October to November
  • Cost: No such cost, only equipment cost (100 INR onwards)
  • Location: Jakhoo Hill, Glen forest, Chadwick Falls
  • Stay Options: Camps, cottages
  • Difficulty Level: Easy to Difficult
  • Tip: Carry a water bottle and don’t go at unknown places

13. Golfing

golfing

Naldehra boasts one of the oldest and most scenic golf courses in India, set amidst lush forests of deodar trees at an altitude of 2,200 metres (7,200 feet). The 18-hole golf course was designed in 1920 by Lord Curzon, the then Viceroy of India, who was captivated by the natural beauty of the location. Playing golf in Naldehra offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. 

  • Ideal For: Friends, Youth, Adults
  • Best Time: March and June
  • Cost: INR 1000 per person
  • Location: NGC, Naldehra
  • Stay Options: Hotel, resorts
  • Difficulty Level: Difficult
  • Tip: Take golf coaching 

Suggested Read: 6-Day Captivating Himachal Tour: Explore Shimla and Manali’s Beauty

14. Zip Lining

zip-lining

Zip lining offers a thrilling adventure in Shimla amidst the scenic beauty of the Himalayan foothills. Zip lining, also known as flying fox, involves sliding down a steel cable while harnessed to a pulley, offering an adrenaline-pumping ride through the air. This adventure activity in Shimla provides a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding landscapes. Zip lining in Shimla is typically offered at various adventure parks and resorts located in and around the city. These parks are nestled amidst lush forests and offer panoramic views of the snow-clad mountains, making the experience not just thrilling but also visually stunning.

The best time for zip lining in Shimla is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months when the weather is mild and clear, providing optimal conditions for outdoor activities.

  • Ideal For: Kids, youth, family, friends
  • Best Time: March to September
  • Cost: INR 500 per person
  • Location: Bemloi, Shimla
  • Stay Options: Hotels, resorts
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Tip: Follow the instructions

15. Photography

photography

Taking photographs in Shimla can also be considered a top adventure activity, especially for photography enthusiasts and travelers who love capturing moments in stunning landscapes. From colonial-era architecture and bustling markets to lush green valleys and snow-clad peaks, Shimla’s landscapes provide ample opportunities for capturing unique and stunning photographs. Popular photography spots in Shimla include Ridge Road, Mall Road, Jakhoo Hill, Chadwick Falls, and nearby viewpoints like Kufri and Mashobra.

What are the most popular adventure activities in Shimla?

The most popular adventure activities in Shimla include trekking, thrilling river rafting on the Sutlej River, skiing in nearby Kufri during winter, and paragliding in Bir-Billing. Additionally, mountain biking, camping under the stars, rock climbing, and rappelling offer adrenaline-pumping experiences amidst the Himalayan landscapes.

Is Shimla suitable for beginners in adventure activities?

Yes, Shimla is suitable for beginners in adventure activities. The hill station offers a variety of options such as easy trekking trails, gentle slopes for skiing, beginner-friendly rafting experiences, and guided activities like nature walks and introductory rock climbing sessions. 

Do I need to bring my own gear for adventure activities in Shimla?

No, you generally do not need to bring your own gear for adventure activities in Shimla. Most adventure operators and camps provide necessary equipment for activities such as trekking, skiing, rafting, and rock climbing.

What are the top adventure activities to do in Shimla?

Top adventure activities in Shimla include trekking, river rafting, skiing, paragliding, mountain biking, camping, rock climbing, zip lining, and golfing.

Are there any eco-friendly adventure activities in Shimla?

Yes, eco-friendly adventure activities in Shimla include trekking, nature walks, bird watching, and camping.

Recent Posts

Leave a Comment

lake-picholacanyoning-in-dalat