Narkanda Travel Guide 2026: Skiing, Hatu Peak, Best Time & Itinerary

Just 60 km beyond Shimla sits Narkanda — a quiet apple-country town at ~2,700 m that doubles as one of Himachal's oldest skiing spots. With the spectacular Hatu Peak above and orchard valleys below, it offers the snow and views of the Shimla belt without the crowds, and usually for less money. Here's how to plan a Narkanda trip.

Things to do in Narkanda

  • Skiing & snow play on Narkanda's slopes in peak winter — beginner-friendly.
  • Hatu Peak (~3,400 m) — a drive/short trek to a ridge-top temple with 360° views.
  • Tanni Jubbar Lake — a small, serene high lake.
  • Stokes Farm, Thanedar — where commercial apple farming in India began.

Best time to visit Narkanda

December–February is the snow-and-ski season. March–June is pleasant with blooming orchards, and September–November brings the apple harvest, crisp air and golden views.

2–3 day itinerary

  1. Day 1: Arrive via Shimla, settle, sunset forest walk.
  2. Day 2: Hatu Peak + Tanni Jubbar; skiing/snow play in winter.
  3. Day 3: Thanedar/Stokes Farm, depart (or continue to Kinnaur).

Cost & tips

A 2–3 day Narkanda trip runs around ₹8,000–16,000 per person mid-range; the popular 4N/5D snow-and-ski circuit (Narkanda–Hatu Peak–Tanni Jubbar) sits around ₹17,499 per person. The Hatu Peak road can close after fresh snow, so check before driving up, and carry warm layers year-round. See these Narkanda tour packages for skiing, Hatu Peak and Shimla transfers in one plan.

Narkanda pairs perfectly with Shimla (60 km). Browse our Narkanda tour packages or WhatsApp HimTrails (4.9★, 3,973+ travellers).

Location: Narkanda, Himachal Pradesh 171213, India

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