Naldehra is a broad hilltop meadow about 22 km north of Shimla, enclosed by some of the tallest deodars in the region. Its fame comes from its golf course, one of the oldest in India, said to have been laid out because Lord Curzon was so taken with the spot that he named his daughter Alexandra Naldera after it.
The nine-hole course is still played, and the meadow is used for pony rides and picnics. There is a small temple to the local deity Mahu Nag, and on clear days the views stretch down the steep slopes to the Sutlej valley.
Top things to do at Naldehra
Walk around the meadow
A loop around the edge of the course, under the deodars, is the best way to enjoy Naldehra. Ponies are available if you prefer.
Play a round of golf
Visitors can usually arrange a round through the club or the neighbouring hotels; ask about green fees and club hire in advance.
Continue to Tattapani
The road drops steeply beyond Naldehra to Tattapani on the Sutlej — a private day trip covers both.
How to get to Naldehra
- By taxi: about an hour from Shimla via Mashobra.
- By bus: buses towards Tattapani and Karsog pass Naldehra.
Insider tips
- Weekends in summer bring picnic crowds; weekdays are far quieter.
- Agree pony fares at the official stand before you start.
- Combine with Mashobra for a relaxed half day, or with Tattapani for a full day.
Best tours & tickets for Naldehra
These experiences are the easiest way to see Naldehra with a guide and transport sorted:
Private day trip from US$142 Shimla: Day Trip to Tattapani
A private car takes you from the cool ridge of Shimla down to the warm Sutlej valley, where hot sulphur springs have drawn pilgrims and bathers for centuries. A good winter outing, when the warm water is at its most welcome.
- The drive down to the Sutlej valley via Naldehra
- Tattapani’s natural hot sulphur springs
- River views, temples and a riverside lunch stop
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
