Himachal Pradesh is one of the most beautiful regions in India, and numerous tourists visit this place every year to capture the beauty of snow-covered mountains. Snowfall is the most common occurrence during the winter season, and the cottage town atmosphere at several popular places of Himachal is vastly enjoyed by the tourists. However, there is also a less-known region which looks like a depiction of paradise on the earth. This tiny hill station is Kufri and it is in Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh state in India. Kufri hill station has a beautiful vicinity and a cool refreshing atmosphere that spreads throughout the region, and it has an average elevation of 8923 feet. The Shimla region was once a part of the Kingdom of Nepal until the area was handed over to the British Government as a part of Sugauli Treaty and the tiny Kufri remained hidden from the rest of the world until the British discovered it in 1819. Today, this beautiful place is a significant part of India and it is located 20 km from the state capital Shimla on the National Highway No. 22. Kufri is not much popular among tourists, and it is hence comparatively untouched and magnificent. A visit to Kufri is always delightful, as this neighbouring town of Shimla is a little less known than the Queen of the Hills - Shimla.

It is believed that the name Kufri is derived from the word ‘Kufr’ meaning ‘Lake’ in the local language. There are a few beautiful freshwater streams situated on the Sutlej river bed, and rafting is one of the best water-sports in this area. There are also some hot water springs on the Sutlej river bed called Tattapani, and these hot water springs originate from the side of the Sutlej river. Locals of Kufri believe that a dive in these springs can help people get rid of several skin ailments.

Whether it snows in its neighbouring Shimla or not, every year, Kufri receives snowfall right from December. Mahasu is the highest peak of Kufri, which provides spectacular views of the snow-covered mountains during winters. Tourists enjoy the fantastic views of Kedarnath and Badrinath mountain ranges from Mahasu. Hiking through the dense forest of Deodar scattered on the Mahasu and indulging in a little adventure with horse riding can become one of the best experiences of life. Moreover, people also go for a skiing adventure in the Mahasu ridge area and it is believed as an ideal spot for beginners who are eager to ski because the path at Mahasu is slightly smooth for skiing, which is why it is considered best for beginners. However, the skiing part is agreeable only during December and January. At the Mahasu peak, there is also a Naga Devta Temple, to give a divine experience to the overall trek.

The Himalayan flora and fauna are full of diversity and the best place to watch them is the Himalayan National Park or the Kufri National Park. This park is scattered over 90 hectares of land and it houses a wide range of Himalayan beasts. Barking deer, leopards, musk deer, brown bears and rare antelopes, felines and birds including the Himalayan Monak, the state bird of Himachal Pradesh until 2007 are some animals and birds which inhabit this place. Along with the animals and bird spotting, the Kufri National Park gives a stunning background of snow-capped mountains to its adventurous visitors at the time of extended stays and camping. With the visit to the rich flora and fauna of the Kufri National Park, tourists can also visit the Indira Tourist Park to spend some time in solitude. The incredible pony and yak rides can be a fun experience for kids and adults as well. The cafes around Indira Tourist Park provide mouth-watering food items with an amazing ambience and view.

A little ahead of Kufri in the lap of the great Himalayan ranges is a region named Fagu, which is the best skiing spot during winters and best picnic spot during summers. To experience the nature of Kufri in black and white form, beholding of Fagu during the snowy months of December and January is the best option. Along with the adorable snowfall and skiing, people also enjoy trekking with a 3km trail from Fagu to Chharabra. The picturesque views of Kufri are breathtaking, and surprisingly, one of the world's highest amusement parks is also in this region. The amusement park named ‘Kufri Fun World’ is situated at an altitude of 2800m above the sea level and it is the only amusement park situated at such height in India. Along with some amazing rides the Kufri Fun World similarly provides a stunning view of the surrounding area. This amusement park also features the world's highest go-kart area, and thus the amusement park can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. People who love aesthetic and historical things can visit Chini Bungalow at Kufri which is quite famous for its statues and architecture.

Kufri is a stunning and perfect hill station to spend some relaxing and fun time. The best time to visit Kufri in winters is between December and February. A winter sports festival is organised in February in Kufri, where adventure seekers and skiing enthusiasts participate. In summers, April to June is the best period to visit Kufri because travellers can enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding lush valleys and snow-covered peaks. Travelling to Kufri can be a memorable experience because of its spectacular surroundings and well-connected roads to Shimla and other neighbouring towns. The nearest airport to Kufri is at Shimla and Kufri is only 20km away from the Shimla railway station, which is well connected with other major cities of India, and this heavenly place has multiple sites of attraction, each of which is worth visiting because it lies in the beautiful Himalayan ranges.

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Reference:

• www.wikitravel.org
• www.hpshimla.nic.in
• www.tourmyindia.com
• www.incredibleindia.org
• www.holidify.com