Kufri : Himachal Pradesh

Kufri is a tiny hill station in the Shimla district located in the southern part of Himachal Pradesh. It is about 13 kms from Shimla nestled in the Himalayan foothills. The name Kufri is derived from the word ‘Kufr’ meaning a lake in the local dialect. The best time to visit Kufri is during summer, between April and June. The place witnesses heavy snowfall during December-January.

History of Kufri :

Kufri is famous for its beautiful environs and the cool atmosphere that encompasses it. In summers, travellers can enjoy the view of the surrounding valleys and snow-capped peaks. Kufri is famous for its trekking and hiking trails. During the winter season, Kufri attracts adventure lovers for skiing and tobogganing. Kufri is also famous for its nature parks and picnic spots. Kufri's nearness to Shimla, another hill station makes it an important place to visit. The region around Shimla including Kufri was once a part of the Kingdom of Nepal. As Shimla gained importance, Kufri also began to be recognised as an important place to visit near Shimla. Kufri does not have an airport or a railway station. However, Kufri is linked with Shimla, Narkanda, and Rampur by road. Travellers can also hire taxis from Shimla to reach Kufri. The area around Kufri can be explored on horseback or a yak ride. Languages spoken here are Hindi, Himachali, and English. There are a range of slopes, including a beginner's run, an advanced slope and slalom run. Himachal Tourism offers ski courses, instructions and also has equipments on hire at Kufri.

Things to do in Kufri :

Fagu, which is about 6 kms from Kufri, is a picnic spot set amidst forests and orchards. A winter sports festival is organised here every year during February in Kufri. Skiing enthusiasts and adventure seekers participate in this festival.

The highest point in the surrounding region, Kufri has a Himalayan Wild Life Zoo which showcases rare Antelopes, Felines and Birds including the Himalayan Monal, which is the State bird of Himachal Pradesh.

Travellers can explore Kufri and its surrounding areas also on horseback. They can hike through thick forest around Kufri to the Mahasu Peak. Day trips can be taken to the Himalayan Nature Park which features native birds and animals of Himachal Pradesh. The Indira Tourist Park nearby provides views of the locations around Kufri.