Shimla, the Queen of Hills, looks absolutely amazing in winter. In summer, this region serves as a haven for people in the neighbouring states. In winter, the magnetism escalates as snow covers the Capital. Witness the winter magic by planning a trip to Shimla and visiting all the best places in December. This month is particularly lovely for visiting the Shimla district. The first half of the month is usually snow-less, while the second half is all about being merry during the Christmas celebration and enjoying the carpet of snow.

Whether you’re a snow-lover or not, whether you want to go skiing or not, the Shimla trip in December is meant for all. The best places to visit in December in Shimla are great places to party on New Year’s Eve. To avoid hassles on your vacation, get yourself a customizable Himachal tour package to explore this hilly retreat.

Top 13 Places To Visit In Shimla In December In 2024

Shimla looks nothing less than a fairytale land in December. With snow falling down, every place in this city looks magical and beautiful. Scan through this list of places that one can visit in Shimla in December.

1. Shimla City – The Colonial Queen Of Hills

A breathtaking view of Shimla city also known as The Colonial Queen Of Hills

The capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is one of the top hill stations of India. This hill-station’s scenic splendor and colonial charm make it one of the must-visit places in north India. Right from religious landmarks like Jakhu Temple and Christ Church to the buzzing shopping alley like Mall Road, Shimla pleases travelers of all kinds and the holiday homes in Shimla are the best places to stay while going for a trip there.

Attractions: Scandal Point, Indian Institute of Advanced Study, and The Shimla State Museum
Where to stay in Shimla: The Oberoi Cecil, Veer Garh, Radisson Hotel Shimla, and Hotel Silverine

Also Read: Resorts In Shimla 


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2. Mashobra – Forested, Yet Luxuriated

Forested, yet luxuriated place, Mashobra is among the nearby places to visit in Shimla in December

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Located amidst the Reserve Forest Sanctuary of Shimla, Mashobra is a haven for all the peace-seeking souls. This is among the best places to visit in Shimla in December, thanks to many activities you can indulge in, such as skiing. Also, there are options for both luxury and budget homestays in Mashobra.

Attractions: Skiing, trekking, and rappelling are some of the best things to do in Mashobra.
Where to stay in Mashobra: Club Mahindra, Tranquil Countryside Homes, Mashobra Greens, and Hotel Rock Heaven

3. Kufri – A Heaven In Shimla During Snowfall

People on their way to Kufri, one of the nearby places to visit in Shimla in December

Though Kufri is 16 km away from the city of Shimla, it is counted among the best tourist places in Shimla in winter. Kufri’s charm increases manifold in the winter season and thus it is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Shimla in December. The ski slopes and mesmerizing views from the ridge of Kufri are crowd pullers and tourists will get some of the best homestays in Kufri while on a trip to Shimla. Among all the places, this place is the perfect location to witness the scenic views of snow in Shimla in December. 

Attractions: Horse ride, skiing, and Himalayan Nature Park
Where to stay in Kufri: Royal Tulip Shimla, Kufri Holiday Resort, and Galleu Hill Resort

Related Post: Things To Do In Shimla 

4. Narkanda – The Skiing Destination

Skiing view on ice

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A town in Shimla District that turns into a ski resort, Narkanda is located just two hours drive away from Shimla city. Since Narkanda is perched at a higher altitude than Shimla (7,400 feet), the panoramic views of the valley will captivate you. This is among the unique places to visit in Shimla in December as HPDC conducts skiing courses here; they’ve been doing the same since 1980. Also, Narkanda is perfect for everyone, from beginners to experienced skiers, owing to the different slopes. 

Attractions: Horse ride, skiing, and Himalayan Nature Park
Where to stay in Narkanda: Hotel Snowflake, Tethys Ski Resort, The Wilderness, and Seetalvan Orchard

5. Rohru – The Apple Orchard Master

Snow-covered Rohru, one of the best places to visit in Shimla in December

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One of the lesser-known places to visit near Shimla in December, Rohru’s apple production has created a buzz in the whole of Himachal Pradesh. The town is located beside the Pabbar River, and trout fishing is popular here. If you visit this town in the first half of December, you can easily enjoy this activity, as after that the town gets whitewashed with snow. Alongside trout fishing, one can enjoy other activities in Rohru, such as hand gliding and trekking.

Attractions: Trout fishing, trekking, and Shikru Devta Temple
Where to stay in Rohru: The Chanshal, Hotel River View, and Hotel Giri Ganga

Related Post: Places To Visit In Shimla In Summer 

6. Summer Hill- The Perfect Escape Into Peace

Summer Hill View

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One of the best places to visit in Shimla in December, Summer Hill offers a retreat to nature lovers and a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Nestled among deodar trees and snow-clad mountains, it is counted among the best places to see in Shimla in December. If you are looking for peace and tranquility while enjoying the natural views, this is the place you must visit! Being the epitome of beauty and serenity, it is the perfect romantic getaway for couples!

Attractions: Monorville Mansion, Dhilon Pond, Annandale
Where To Stay in Summer Hill: Merchant Hotel, Cambridge Lodge

7. Shaily Peak

Shaily Peak is among the top nearby places to visit in Shimla in December

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Take time to explore the beautiful Shaily Peaks home to nature’s artistic views. Located in Naldehra, this is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Shimla during December. This place can be visited by riding a pony or by commuting through a motorable road. Apart from that, a steep trail can be taken to reach this place. This place is suitable for experiencing adventure sports like hiking and trekking. Apart from that, there are views of the snow-capped mountains, which makes all the strenuous efforts worth it.

Distance From Shimla: 23 km
Activities To Do: Photography, Hiking

Related Post: Best Places To Visit In Shimla 

8. Chadwick Waterfall

Chadwick Waterfalls is one of the scenic places to visit in Shimla in December

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Sitting by the beautiful waterfalls in the cold winter evening can be one of the most exciting things to do. The sight of the gigantic waterfall is worth a shot and its quite a popular attraction in Shimla which is visited by the tourists and locals throughout the year. The water falls from a height of 100 meters and creates a beautiful sight to capture. This place is a fantastic place to visit in Shimla in December. 

Distance From Shimla: 5 Kms (Glen forest)
Activities To Do: Picnic, Photography, Trekking

9. Annandale

A majestic view of Annandale

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For the people who are fond of open landscapes surrounded by lush green forests, Annandale is the place where you should be. This is a flat terrain located close to the Shimla Ridge and has now turned into a playground where the locals can play sports like cricket, golf and racing. Surrounded by thick Deodar, Oak and Pine trees, this place is a sight to capture and behold and visiting this place during the snowfall will be worth it.

Distance From Shimla: 3.5 Kms
Activities To Do: Picnic, Photography, Museum, Sports

Related Post:  Snowfall In Shimla

10. Majathal Wildlife Sanctuary

Majathal Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the places to visit in Shimla in December for wildlife enthusiasts

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Spend a day amidst the wildlife at this unexplored region named the Majathal Wildlife Sanctuary. Came into existence in 1974, this sanctuary is spread across a region of 39.4 sq. km and makes a great spot in Shimla for the people who love wildlife. The main highlight of the sanctuary is the trek to the steep and rugged terrain from where one can watch the exotic flora and fauna. Apart from this, the sanctuary is home to Himalayan bear, Barking deer and Leopard.

Distance From Shimla: 76Kms
Activities To Do: Photography, Trekking

11. Kiala Forest

A splendid view of Kiala Forest

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Kiala Forest is an offbeat place in Shimla which is ideal for nature lovers and will relax your mind and body. While the place is covered with rich vegetation and pure air, there is an undaunted beauty of nature which blankets the place. Resting in the Kotkhai valley of Shimla, this place is heaven for people who love to do photography and also want an escape from the hustle-bustle.

Location: Kotkhai, Shimla
Activities To Do: Picnic, Nature Walk, Photography

Related Post: Shimla In Winter

12. Scandal Point

Scandal Point is one of the popular places to visit in Shimla in December

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One of the famous tourist spots in the heart of Shimla, Scandal Point can be spotted at the convergence of the Ridge and the Mall Road. With an extremely fascinating and interesting history latched to it, Scandal Point is all about romance and love. It is believed that Scandal Point was the spot from where Bhupinder Singh, the king of Patiala in 1892 and the Viceroy’s daughter, eloped. In the present day, one can witness a magnificent and eye-catching statue of the respected freedom fighter Lala Lajpat Rai standing at that point.

Location: Mall Road, Shimla
Activities To Do: Sightseeing, Dining, Shopping, Horse Riding

13. Viceregal Lodge

Rashtrapati_Niwas,_Shimla

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One of the most attractive places to visit for architecture and history buffs, Viceregal Lodge, exhibits fine and exquisite craftsmanship of the styles and designs from the British era in India. Also known as Rashtrapati Niwas, this lodge sits on Observatory Hill and was once a residence of a British Viceroy when the British was ruling India. Used as an impeccable museum in the present day, visiting the Viceregal Lodge can help one gain knowledge about the bygone era via photographs, texts, and much more. This is the perfect destination if you are looking for places near Shimla to visit in December. 

Location: Observatory Hill, Shimla
Activities To Do: Sightseeing, Photography, Picnic

You May Also Like To Read: Hotels In Shimla Near Mall Road 

Are you excited to spend a weekend in Shimla and enjoy its winter? If yes, plan your trip to Shimla with TravelTriangle in December and gather memories you’ll cherish forever. Explore the adventure and fun with your loved ones with amazing views and activities which gives you a memorable experience. 

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Shimla In December

What is the best time to visit Shimla?

Shimla is a destination that can be visited all year round. The summer season from March to June offers pleasant climatic conditions. Those who want to experience snowfall can visit during the winter months from November to January.

How can I spend 2 days in Shimla?

Some of the places to visit in Shimla in 2 days include Jakhu Temple, The Ridge, Mall Road, Himachal State Museum, Christ Church, Visceral Lodge, Kali Bari Temple, and Scandal Point.

What is there to do in Shimla in December?

There are a lot of enticing things to do in Shimla in December like trying the local food, paragliding, Skiing, heli-skiing, and ice-skating.

Is there snowfall in Shimla in December?

If you want to witness snow on your vacation in Shimla, then December is the perfect month to plan your trip. You can experience snowfall in Shimla around Christmas for sure.

How many days are sufficient for Shimla?

Shimla is a gorgeous hill station and there are a lot of things to do and places to visit in the city. You will need around 3 to 4 days to explore Shimla and enjoy your vacation to the fullest.

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