Kufri is a small settlement on a high ridge about 16 km east of Shimla, at around 2,500–2,700 metres. For generations of visitors from the plains it has been the place to see and touch snow for the first time, and in winter the slopes fill with families, sledges and snow-play.
In summer Kufri is a place of pony rides through the forest to viewpoints such as Mahasu Peak, yak photographs and small amusement parks. It can feel crowded and commercial, but the Himalayan Nature Park, with native animals and birds in forest enclosures, and the views of the snow ranges on a clear day are worth the trip.
Top things to do at Kufri
Ride up to the viewpoints
The ponies at Kufri take visitors along muddy forest paths to the upper viewpoints and temple. Agree the fare and route with the official counter before setting off, and ask what is included.
Visit the Himalayan Nature Park
The park shelters Himalayan animals such as the Himalayan black bear, musk deer and pheasants in large forested enclosures. It is a calm break from the pony tracks.
Play in the snow
Snow usually falls between late December and February, but is not guaranteed. When it comes, Kufri is the nearest reliable place for snow play — and the road can close after heavy falls.
How to get to Kufri
- By taxi: about 45 minutes from Shimla along the highway towards Narkanda (traffic permitting).
- By bus: local buses heading east from Shimla stop at Kufri.
- On a tour: most Shimla sightseeing tours and Delhi–Shimla packages include Kufri.
Insider tips
- In snowy weather, local taxi unions may require you to change to a local vehicle; roads can also be closed. Check the situation before you set off.
- Wear waterproof boots — the pony trails are muddy year-round.
- Weekend traffic between Shimla and Kufri in peak season can be heavy; start early.
- Snow clothes and boots are rented at the roadside if you arrive unprepared.
Best tours & tickets for Kufri
These experiences are the easiest way to see Kufri with a guide and transport sorted:
Private day tour from US$62 Shimla: Experience the Best of Shimla with a Local Guide
A flexible private day that goes deeper than the headline sights — the lanes below the Mall, stories of the Raj and of the hill people who were here long before it, and a taste of local food. Every review so far is five stars.
- A private full day with a Shimla-born guide and car
- The Ridge, Mall Road, Christ Church and the old bazaars
- Local folklore, colonial stories and Himachali snacks along the way
Multi-day tour from US$313 From Chandigarh: Shimla and Manali 6-Day Tour
The classic Himachal circuit — Shimla first, then down through the Sutlej and Beas valleys to Kullu and Manali — with transport and hotels handled for you from Chandigarh.
- Shimla, Kufri and the Mall Road
- The Kullu valley and Manali
- Transport and hotels arranged
Private multi-day tour from US$188 4 Days Private Delhi, Chandigarh and Shimla Tour by Car
A short, private road trip from the capital: Chandigarh, the climb into the hills and two days in and around Shimla, with a driver who knows the route. The simplest way to add Shimla to a Delhi-based trip.
- A private car and driver from Delhi
- Chandigarh’s Rock Garden and Sukhna Lake on the way
- Shimla sightseeing including Kufri
