Best Things to Do in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India

Shimla in Himachal Pradesh is often regarded as a honeymoon destination, but it welcomes anyone seeking a peaceful escape. Located atop seven hills at an elevation of around 2,200 meters (7,200 feet) above sea level, Shimla stays cool year-round and offers plenty of pine forests and scenic Himalayan views. It’s no surprise the British made it their summer capital during colonial rule.

In Shimla, it’s about resting back, breathing deep, and enjoying the surroundings. A true break from city life - no traffic, no rush, just calm (HARYANA INDIA PLACES TO VISIT).

Nature Activities in Shimla

For nature lovers, or anyone, really - it’s about walking around and admiring the beauty that surrounds you. The fresh mountain air, towering pine trees, and walking paths invite you to go with the flow of nature (CAPE TOWN SOUTH AFRICA TOUR).

 

For hikers, Shimla offers trails winding through forests and hills. In winter, skiing is a popular activity on the slopes, adding winter adventure to the serene setting.

 

The panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges make Shimla truly meaningful, a place for standing still and relaxation of the mind. These simple pleasures are already must-do things in Shimla (VARANASI INDIA THINGS TO DO).

Kufri Horse Ride

One of the top things to do in Shimla is the Kufri horse ride. The journey to Mahasu Peak starts from what’s known as the Kufri Horse Ride Point. You’ll need to make arrangements to pay for the ride before beginning, and since this activity is popular with local tourists from across India, it can get quite crowded.

 

Getting Started

It’s fairly organised. Once you arrive at the area where the horses and guides wait, everything flows smoothly. The guides help you get on the horse and use gestures or simple words to show how to sit properly and hold on tightly to the reins.

Getting ready for the horse ride in Kufri, Shimla – view of the surrounding area and horses near the starting point.

The Ride to Mahasu Peak

You’ll take turns and begin the ride along a narrow clay path filled with rocks and stones, so expect a bumpy ride. The guide walks beside your horse the whole way, leading you up the path. The ride ends near the entrance to Mahasu Peak

Once you reach, the guide will help you get down and usually gives you his phone number to call once you're ready to return.

Entrance to Mahasu Peak in Kufri with horse riding activity and visitors.

Walking Up to the Peak

Mahasu Peak is the highest point in Kufri, with a wide view of the surrounding Himalayan ranges. If your package doesn’t include the entrance fee, you’ll need to pay at the gate.

From there, it’s a long walk up stone steps, and the path can be uneven. When you reach the top, the view is beautiful, take a short rest, enjoy the fresh air, and take photos.

Back Down and Return Ride
On the way down, you’ll walk past rows of stalls selling snacks, drinks, and local items. Once you return to the entrance where the Mahasu Peak walk began, wait at the same spot where your guide dropped you off. He’ll come with the horse, and you’ll ride back down the same bumpy path to the starting point. 

Stalls and stone path to Mahasu Peak in Kufri, Shimla – walking trail up and down the peak.  

A Must-Do in Shimla

The Kufri horse ride is one of the highlights of visiting Shimla. If you skip it, it might feel like you’ve missed something, especially after coming this far to Shimla.