East of Shimla, where the Hindustan–Tibet Road climbs into apple country, sits the quiet town of Narkanda and the forested crown of Hatu Peak above it. It is a gentler, orchard-scented corner of Himachal that many valley travellers miss. If you are exploring the state from Naggar, Narkanda pairs naturally with a Shimla or Kinnaur road trip.
Narkanda: the apple town
Narkanda sits at about 2,708 metres (8,885 feet) on the old road that links Shimla with Rampur and Kinnaur. It is surrounded by the famous orchards of Kotgarh and Thanedhar — often called the "apple bowl of India". This is where the first American apple saplings were planted in the early twentieth century, and the whole area still runs on the autumn harvest. Come in September–October and the hillsides are heavy with red fruit.
Hatu Peak
About 8 km above Narkanda rises Hatu Peak, at 3,415 metres (11,200 feet) the highest point in Shimla district. A narrow motorable road and a short walk lead to the summit, where the wooden Hatu Mata temple stands among the trees. Dedicated to the goddess Kali, local legend links it to the Pandavas during their exile. The carved timber shrine and the sweep of Himalayan ridgelines make the climb worth it.
Best time to visit
April to June and September to November are ideal, with pleasant days and clear views. February–March brings fresh snow for those who want a winter landscape (the Hatu road may close). Skip July–August, when heavy monsoon rain raises the landslide risk on these roads.
Things to do around Narkanda
- Drive or walk up to Hatu Peak and its temple.
- Wander the orchards of Kotgarh and Thanedhar, especially at harvest.
- Stroll the pine forests around Narkanda; in winter there are gentle ski slopes.
- Continue down to Rampur, a historic trade town on the Sutlej.
Getting there from Naggar
Narkanda is a long drive from Naggar, best folded into a wider trip. Head down the Kullu valley to Mandi, then via Bilaspur and Shimla up the Hindustan–Tibet Road to Narkanda; it is a full day's journey. Many travellers stop here on the way to Kinnaur.
Before you set off eastward, Naggar is a lovely place to rest and plan. Ghar in the Hills is a homely stay right in the village — book a room to enjoy the Kullu valley before you chase apples and mountain temples further east. Narkanda's mix of orchards, old roads and a summit shrine makes it one of Himachal's most underrated stops.