Narkanda Guide: Hatu Peak, Skiing, Apples and Snow

Hatu peak is the highest point around Narkanda, about 8 km from town by a narrow road through dense forest. At the top stands the Hatu Mata temple, built in the traditional carved-wood style of the region, with sweeping views of the snow ranges to the north on clear days. The road is single-lane in places and can be closed by snow in winter, when the last stretch may only be possible on foot.

Nearby, a short detour leads to Tani Jubbar lake, a small lake in the forest that's a pleasant stop on the way.

Narkanda's slopes have been used for skiing for decades, and in a normal winter they're covered from late December or January. Beginners can find equipment and instructors in season; the state has also run courses here, so ask locally which operators are running that winter. Snow depends heavily on the year, so check before planning a ski trip around it.

For simple snow play, the open slopes near town and on the road to Hatu are usually white from January to February. After heavy snow, the NH5 between Shimla and Narkanda can close for a day or more until it's cleared.

The hills around Narkanda, and especially Kotgarh about 15 km away, are among Himachal's best-known apple areas. Apples were introduced to the region by Satyanand Stokes in the early 20th century, and the crop now supports much of the local economy. Visit between August and October to see the harvest, buy fresh apples by the box and drive past orchards heavy with fruit.

Narkanda works as a long day trip from Shimla, but it's much better with a night there, especially in snow season, so you can go up Hatu in the morning when the views are clearest. It also makes a natural first stop on the road into Kinnaur, towards Sarahan, Sangla and Kalpa.

Our Shimla, Narkanda and Sarahan package covers this route with hotels; the Shimla to Narkanda page shows taxi fares.