Narkanda
Narkanda is located at an altitude of about 2708 mtrs., around 65 kms from Shimla. Narkanda is on Hindustan-Tibet Road (NH22) in Himachal Pradesh. In Mahabharata days pandavas resided in this town during their exile, and after that this town was ruled by the King of Kashmir, Sankar Verma, thereafter the town was ruled by the Rajput King- Maharaja Ranjit Singh. After Ranjit Singh this area came under Mughal rule, until it was invaded by The Gorkhas, uner the leadership of Amar Singh Thapain 1768. In the late 18th century, the Anglo-Gorkha war the area came under British rule. After British it came under the Shimla district.
In today’s time apple is the major source of income and livlihoodfor the Narkanda people. This apple was brought by Mr. Satyanand Stokes, now cherry is the other business which is expanding the root in this area. Around 3000 crore income of Himachal comes from apple business. Narkanda is a town and a Nagar Panchayat in Shimla. This place is popular for skiing, in the year 1980,ski resort was started and today it is one of the most well known ski resorts in India. The best time to visit Narkanda is in winters.
How to Reach Us
By Air nearest airport is Shimla to Narkanda. Alternatively other nearest Airport is Chandigarh which is about 91 kms from Narkanda.Taxis/cabs are available from Airport.
By Rail Nearest Railway station is Kalka Railway Station which is almost 125 km. Alternately take a train to Shimla and then taxis/cabs are available from railway station.
By Road Buses and Volvos available for Shimla and Kalka from there one can take taxis/cabs to reach the destinations.
Best Time To visit Narkanda
Summer (April - June) The maximum temperature ranges around 30 degrees Celcius, while the minimum temperature is around 10 degrees Celcius. Best time to visit the place.
Monsoon (July - September) Monsoon is moderate in Narkanda and at this time this place is full of greenry and looks amazing.
Winter (October - February) The minimum temperature tends to go down to -10 degrees Celcius, while the maximum temperature ranges around 15 degrees Celcius. This is a good time for winter sports like skiing.
Foods
There is not too much options available here , it is limited with few local dhabas and restaurants.One can get the variety in Hotels and resorts.
Restaurants
Negi Dhaba
Palki Restaurant
Attractions
Hatu Peak
Hatu peak is located at a height of around 3400 mtrs. above sea level. It is the highest peak in Narkanda and the only way to reach the hill top is by trekking at a distance of around 7 kmfrom Narkanda. This place is famous for apple orchards, dense pine forests,green paddy fields and snow covered mountains.All the festivals are celebrated happily here including Holi, Diwali,Dusshera and Lohri. Best time to visit Hatu Peak is during the months of April, May, June, July, August, September and October.while trekking one can view other attractions like Dhumari and Jau Bagh Slopes.
Tannu Jubbar Lake
This is a very good place for picnic surrounded with trees all around the lake, one can spend a quality time family, childrens and friends here watching the mountain peaks all around.
Skiing
Narkanda receives heavy snowfall in winters due to which it is the famous place for winter sports and Skiing. It is the oldest Skii destinations with the beauty of nature. Hatu peak near Narkanda towering at 2000 ft. is the best place for the skiers.One can explore this place. Since it is a high altitude so one should done with the medical check up before coming on trip. For skiing you must have good footwear, it is advisable to come with the preparations.
Stokes Farm
As per history there is a saying that a man called Satyanand Stokes is the originator of the apple cultivation to Narkanda and in the process of town economy’s life, one can evenfind grandsons of Satyanand Stokes experimenting with new varities of apples. Today the area is famous for its Apple orchard and one can enjoy walking these orchards.
City Shopping
One can enjoy shopping here with some traditional items , Himachali Shawls,pattoo blankets , caps as well as pullans, which are shoes made out of wool.
Mahamaya Temple, Kacheri
Mahamaya temple is located at a distance of around 7 km from Narkanda. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali surrounded with beautiful scenic views good for meditation.
