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The Simbalbara National Park is in the Sirmaur District of Himachal Pradesh. It is around 27,000 hectares and part of the outer Shivaliks of the Great Himalayas Range. The topographical varieties within the park are a span of mixed ecosystems, from downsloping rolling hills up to the steep slopes. The park is a habitation for mammals that include the Indian leopard, sambar deer, barking deer, and Himalayan goral, among others, and birds such as the Himalayan monal, Kalij pheasant, Indian peafowl, woodpeckers, warblers, reptiles, and amphibians.
Location
Photo: Photos Worldwide / Wikimedia Commons / Images For Representation Only
Simbalbara National Park is located in the Sirmaur district of northeastern Himachal Pradesh. The closest major towns are Paonta Sahib and Shimla in Himachal Pradesh and Dehradun in Uttarakhand. The general altitude in the park varies from 450 metres in the lower parts to 2,100 metres in the thickly forested hills.
How To Reach Simbalbara National Park
Photo: Pawanpreet Singh / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
By Air: Chandigarh Airport (IXC) is the most convenient major airport, located 130 kilometres from Simbalbara National Park, while Dehradun Airport (DED) is 95 kilometres away but may offer less frequent flights.
By Rail: Dehradun and Ambala Railway Stations are 95 and 140 kilometres away, respectively. To reach the park, take a taxi or local bus to Paonta Sahib and then drive.
By Road: Paonta Sahib, Shimla, and Dehradun are all 45 kilometres, 90, and 95 kilometres away from the park, with well-maintained roads and scenic hilly terrain.
Places To Visit In And Around Simbalbara National Park
While Simbalbara National Park is a haven for nature lovers additionally the surrounding regions offers diverse experiences:
1. Renuka Lake
Photo: Fred Hsu / Wikimedia Commons
Renuka Lake is one of the calmest and most picturesque destinations. This lake is shaped like a sleeping woman, further enhancing its charm and legend. The total length is approximately 2.5 kilometres, and it is surrounded by lush green trees and rolling hills. The area around Renuka Lake is also good for leisure walks and picnics. It provides a habitat for many bird species and aids in the rich ecosystem buildup of the lake.
Things To Do: Boating
Location: Shimla (90 km)
2. Jaitak Fort
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Jaitak Fort presents a panoramic view of the surroundings in Himachal Pradesh. The fort was built during the 19th century and has some historical significance as one of the strategic military posts of British colonial rule. Ruins of the fort, surrounded by thick forest, bring into view past grandeur. Visitors can view the ruins of the fort and get a bird’s eye view of the Shivalik Hills overlooking the valleys.
Things To Do: Sightseeing
Location: Shimla (60 km)
3. Renuka Wildlife Park
Photo: Anand2022 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Renuka Wildlife Park, spreading over 4.1 square kilometres, is a wildlife park with great biodiversity. The sambar deer and leopard, along with several varieties of birds, are some of the species found here. The park’s natural beauty, with its green vegetation and calm environment, enhances the experience of viewing wildlife and going on nature walks.
Things To Do: Strolling
Location: Shimla (90 km)
4. Paonta Sahib
Photo: Daily Travel Photos / Shutterstock
Paonta Sahib is a town in the Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh that is rich in culture and heritage. It is well-known for the Gurudwara Paonta Sahib, one of the famous Sikh pilgrimage places founded by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in the 17th century. Thousands of devotees come to this historic gurudwara every year, and it has an enchantingly peaceful atmosphere and architectural beauty. Local markets, local cuisine, and religious spots in this cosmopolitan town attract visitors who are fond of spiritualism, history, and culture.
Things To Do: Sightseeing
Location: Simbalbara National Park (45 km)
5. Churdhar Peak
Photo: Anilthakur878 / Wikimedia Commons
Churdhar Peak, perched at 3,647 metres above sea level, is the highest peak in the outer Shivalik range of Himachal Pradesh. The trek to Churdhar Peak from Nohradhar village is full of challenges and beauties because it winds up through dense forests and scenic meadows. Local legends and spiritual values are attached to the area around the peak, adding a mythical dimension to the trek.
Things To Do: Trekking
Location: Renuka Lake (80 km)
Where To Stay
Photo: Tristan Surtel / Wikimedia Commons
Sirmaur features many accommodation facilities near the Simbalbara National Park, suiting different budgets and tastes. Some recommended places to stay here are Ekant Guest House, Morni Heights Resort, Drishti Guest House & Restaurant, The Sirmour Retreat and Writers Hill.
Where To Eat
Photo: Tarun Adhikari 43 / Wikimedia Commons
Dining options are available at Simbalbara National Park. Some local cafes and guesthouses are The Sharma Dhaba, The Daddy’s Cafe, Sharma Shudh Vaishno Devi Dhaba, Pyare Da Dhaba and Ayush Bhojnalaya. Chana Madra, Siddu, and Kadi are some of the local specialities.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Suresh Karia / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
October to March is the best time to visit Simbalbara National Park. Just after the monsoon season, October to November is lovely because of the region’s lush greenery, which rejuvenates the landscapes. By March, when it begins to warm up, flowers bloom to make the park all the more enjoyable before the scorching summer.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip
The cost of a Simbalbara National Park trip with all the inclusions might have an average cost of somewhere between ₹10,000 and ₹15,000 for a 2-3 day scheme of travel, this cost includes transportation, accommodation, park fees, and basic food. The cost would be ₹20,000-35,000 with better accommodation and occasional guided tours for premium travel.
Tips For Travellers
- Obtain permits for park entry and trekking in advance.
- Click Simbalbara National Park’s photos, but do not disturb the wildlife.
- Acclimatise to the altitude, stay hydrated and carry a basic medical kit.
- Check weather forecasts and dress in layers to adjust to varying temperatures. Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
- Hire local guides for trekking and activities, respect trails, and maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
Simbalbara National Park is a real gem, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience of an encounter with nature. From wildlife enthusiasts to people looking to unwind, there is much that it holds in store for every soul out there. Pack your bags and set off to discover the magic of Simbalbara National park. Plan your trip effortlessly with TripXL—your one-stop solution for all travel needs.
Cover Photo: Photo: Shekhar Pillay / Shutterstock / Image For Representation Only
