Barog

A pretty little hill town in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, Barog has largely been off the tourist map. Barog station is located on the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kalka-Shimla Railway and is the loveliest one on this route. Barog tunnel (or Tunnel No. 33), the longest tunnel on this track, is said to be one of the straightest tunnels in the world. Camp with your friends at Barog Camping grounds or have a glimpse of the pre-historic times at the Suketi Fossil Park.

Distance from Chandigarh: 60 km
Climate: Moderate
Best time to visit: April-September

Nahan

The headquarters of the Sirmaur district, Nahan is a small charming hill station nestled amongst the Shivalik ranges in Himachal Pradesh. A little away from Nahan is the largest natural lake in the state, Renuka, which is shaped like a reclining woman and is named after goddess Renuka. You can trek and hike in the alpine forests around the lake. Some places worth a visit are the Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary, Jaitak Fort, Dhaula Kuan and Trilokpur Temples.

Distance from Chandigarh: 116.8 km
Climate: Cold to moderate
Best time to visit: December to March

Shoghi

Shoghi is a perfect romantic getaway with its quiet vibe and striking beauty. It is a small unexplored hill station 13km before Shimla. You can take a leisurely walk in the serene woods, go camping with your friends, and watch birds, trek/ hike on the hills or just simply be, away from the noise of the routine city life, in the quaint place that’s Shoghi.

Distance from Chandigarh: 162 km
Climate: Tropical
Best time to visit: Summer (for tiger spotting), November to February

Naldehra

Naldehra is an attractive little town 22km from Shimla. The Naldhera golf course, located at an altitude of 2,200m, was developed under the supervision of Lord Curzon. The 18-hole golf course has restricted entry but you can take a pony ride for some breathtaking views. Visit the apple orchards of Mashobra’s Regional Horticultural Research Station.

Distance from Chandigarh: 168 km
Climate: Extreme
Best time to visit: October-February