Beyond the popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh like Shimla and Manali, Narkanda is a less explored but must-visit destination if nature’s untouched beauty is your first love. Known for its apple orchards and oak and deodar forests, Narkanda is renowned for its natural wonders. If you are planning a quick getaway to a secluded and less explored spot in Himachal, including the places to visit in Narkanda can be a great option. Ensure that you have all the top tourist destinations sorted in your travel plans to make the most out of your trip.
10 Places To Visit In Narkanda
The places to visit in Narkanda in Himachal Pradesh have breathtaking landscapes, a serene ambience, and a plethora of adventure activities.
1. Hatu Peak
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Standing tall at an altitude of 3,400 meters, Hatu Peak is the crown jewel of Narkanda. Reaching this peak involves a challenging yet rewarding trek from where you can witness stunning and panoramic views of the Shivalik ranges. It is one of the top tourist destinations in Narkanda that also offers unobstructed views of the Dhauladhar peaks and the Sutlej Valley. The iconic Hatu Mata Temple, dedicated to Goddess Hatu, is perched atop the peak, attracting devotees and adventure enthusiasts alike.
Location: Hatu Rd, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171225
Timings: 24*7
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2. Hatu Mata Temple
Photo: Himalayanlens / Wikimedia Commons
Another one of the popular Narkanda tourist attractions that you must visit and explore is the Hatu Mata Temple. It is a popular pilgrimage site among Hindus and features intricate wooden carvings, which add to the architectural marvel of the temple. The temple itself is dedicated to Mandodari, the wife of Ravana. The surroundings of the temple feature lush pine and spruce forests, which add to the serenity of the place. The temple is usually overcrowded on the first Sunday of Jeth month to offer their prayers.
Location: Hatu Rd, Narkanda, Kumarsain, Himachal Pradesh 171213
Timings: 24*7
3. Stokes Farm
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For a taste of rural Himachal, a visit to Stokes Farm is a must. This sprawling apple orchard, named after the pioneer of apple cultivation in India, offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. The best time to visit this farm is during the harvest season, when the entire orchard is covered in bright, red coloured apples. You can explore the orchard, take pictures and even enjoy fresh apples right from the trees. Depending on the guided tour you are on, you can also learn about the history of apple cultivation at the farm, further piquing your interest.
Location: Village Deoridhar, Po, Narkanda, Deoridhar, Himachal Pradesh 171213
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
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4. Tani Jubbar Lake
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Another one of the places to visit in Narkanda is the Tani Jubbar Lake. It is an offbeat location that’s located near Naag Devta, a shrine dedicated to the God of Snakes. The tranquil water of the lake, paired with the lush green surroundings make this a popular sightseeing spot among tourists. The area around the lake is also great for bird watching, with various species found in the region. The pine and deodar forests across the perimeter of the lake make for a great spot for you to take pictures or simply soak in the beauty of nature.
Location: Narkanda, Himachal Pradesh 172031
Timings: 24*7
5. Kotkhai Palace
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Known as the “Palace on the Cliff,” Kotkhai Palace is one of the places to visit in Narkanda Himachal Pradesh India. Offering an exquisite example of traditional Himachali architecture, visiting this palace offers a look into the regal history of the place. This historical palace was once the residence of the Kotkhai royal family. The interiors of this palace aren’t available for extensive tours for the travellers. However, you can explore the palace from the outside while admiring the stunning views of the River Giri Ganga from the palace, adding to its significance.
Location: Kotkhai, Himachal Pradesh 171202
Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM
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6. Mahamaya Temple
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Mahamaya Temple, dedicated to the goddess Mahamaya, is an important religious site in Narkanda. The temple is situated atop a hill and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys. The temple is located at an elevation of 5500 feet above sea level and celebrates feminine energy. The peaceful surroundings of the temple make it one of the popular tourist places in Narkanda. Around the temple, you can also find several apple orchards. During winter months, the entire area is covered in snow, adding to the beauty of the place.
Location: Dehri Chatrokhari,, Maloh, Himachal Pradesh 175018
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
7. Jau Baug
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The beauty of Jau Baug is best explored during the summer and spring months when the entire lush green meadow comes to life with vibrant wildflowers. During the monsoon, the meadows transform into a lush green paradise, carpeted with soft grass covering the pathways A haven for photographers, the views of the surrounding greenery, paired with the laid-back charm of this place makes for a great place to add to your Narkanda tourist places list. You can relax on the meadows, set up a camp or even indulge in a leisurely afternoon picnic session with your friends and family.
Location: Hatu Road, Himachal Pradesh 171225
Timings: 24*7
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8. Kacheri
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While Kacheri is primarily renowned for housing the famous Mahamaya temple, this quaint and offbeat town is also known for a variety of other tourist attractions. It is located a short walk from Oddi and is a great spot for people to indulge in hiking experiences. You can also set up a picnic and enjoy the surrounding views for a relaxing time. The warm hospitality of the locals in this village further adds to the experience. While there, you can embark on strolls throughout the village, explore the local cuisine and even learn about the local legends and folklore.
Location: Himachal Pradesh 172029
Timings: N/A
9. Derthu Mata Temple
Photo: Sanyam Bahga / Wikimedia Commons
Located near Narkanda, Derthu Mata Temple is another popular Hindu pilgrimage site. It is located at an elevation of 8500 feet above sea level and is dedicated to Derthu Mata, who is the “Mother Goddess of Kumharsain and Sangri people of the area.” Due to the high altitude location of the temple, you get to immerse yourself in the astounding views of the surrounding hills, peaks and the dense forests around. The best way to reach the temple is via an easy trek, which starts from the Narkanda bus stand. The trek covers 10 km and takes around 5 hours.
Location: KANDYALI , NARKANDA , NH-5, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171213
Timings: 24*7
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10. Koteshwar Mahadev Temple
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The last one of the places for the Narkanda trip is Koteshwar Mahadev Temple. It is one of the most popular temples located in Shimla and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is more specifically located in the Mandoli village and Lord Shiva is worshipped in the “Koteshwar” form. There are local legends and folklore that depict that Lord Shiva or Koteshwar descends and visits the temple every four years. The best time to visit this temple is between August and September when a local festival is celebrated, spanning a total of nine days.
Location: Dheongli, Kumarsain, Himachal Pradesh 172027
Timings: 24*7
With so many different places to visit in Narkanda in Himachal Pradesh, planning a trip is vital so you don’t miss out on any of the places and experiences. Ensure that you pre-book your vacation with TripXL to avail the best discounts and the best deals without any compromise. You can indulge in a variety of experiences, including adventures, exploration and natural wonders.
Cover Photo: Chirayu Sharma / Unsplash