Shimla, the Queen of the Hills, is not only a summer haven — it’s also a stargazer’s secret destination. With its above-average elevations, low light pollution, and star-studded skies on clear nights, the regions around Shimla are an ideal location for viewing constellations, meteor showers, and the Milky Way.
Here are 6 of the top stargazing locations around Shimla that guarantee a magical night under the stars.
1. Narkanda (65 km from Shimla)
- Altitude: 2,700 meters
- Why Go: Narkanda is all about breathtaking vistas of the white Himalayas and is located away from city lights, making it perfect for gazing at the stars. The air is cold, clean, and silent — ideal for nighttime photography or just reclining and mapping out constellations.
- Tip: Go between October–March for the best skies.
- How to Reach: Drive directly by taxi or bus from Shimla. It takes around 2.5–3 hours along NH5. Alternatively, you may take a bike on rent for a scenic ride.
2. Chail (45 km from Shimla)
- Altitude: 2,250 meters
- Why Go: Surrounded by thick deodar forests, Chail’s height and remoteness ensure that it is a perfect place for astronomy lovers. Thousands of stars light up the sky as the sun sets, particularly in the area around the Chail Palace.
- Tip: Don’t visit during monsoon seasons; winter skies are best.
- How to Reach: Chail is about a 2-hour drive from Shimla through Kufri. Buses and taxis can be used, or you can drive your own car via the scenic hill road.
3. Mashobra (13 km from Shimla)
- Altitude: 2,146 meters
- Why Go: A short drive from Shimla, Mashobra is all peace, pine woods, and open skies. It’s particularly popular among astrophotographers because of ease of access and perfect visibility.
- Tip: Stay close to Craignano Nature Park for a special star-gazing experience.
- How to Reach: 30 minutes’ drive or cab ride from Shimla. There are local buses as well, or you can hire a taxi from the city center.
4. Kufri (16 km from Shimla)
- Altitude: 2,720 meters
- Why Go: Though known for skiing, Kufri’s high altitude also makes it a great place to watch the stars. The open skies and chill in the air add to the cosmic magic, especially on clear winter nights.
- Tip: Trek a little off the main tourist trail to escape lights.
- How to Reach: Take a 40-minute drive from Shimla via NH5. Taxis, private cabs, and frequent buses are available from the city.
5. Fagu (20 km from Shimla)
- Altitude: 2,450 meters
- Why Visit: Fagu is a quiet, lesser-explored village that provides a serene environment and unobstructed open skies. It’s among the most peaceful spots around Shimla, perfect for star-gazing and gazing at constellations undisturbed.
- Tip: Book a resort stay at an orchard lodge for a romantic getaway of stargazing.
- How to Get There: Drive 45–60 minutes along the Hindustan-Tibet Road from Shimla. Taxis or rented bikes are great for a scenic drive.
6. Theog (30 km from Shimla)
- Altitude: 2,300 meters
- Why Go: Theog is pristine, serene, and engulfed in dense forests — a serene retreat for those who want to get away from noise and light. Dark sky conditions here are almost ideal for star-gazing.
- Tip: Pack a telescope or binoculars for intense sky viewing.
- How to Reach: Reaches by road from Shimla in approximately 1.5 hours. Hire a taxi or private vehicle on NH5. Also runs regular public buses.
Must Read: Chail A Peaceful Hill Station Only 50 km from Shimla That Is Like Paradise
Ideal Time to Stargazing location Around Shimla
- October to March: Clear nights with cool, crisp weather
- New Moon Nights: Maximum visibility with least ambient light
- Meteor Showers: Watch out for Perseids (Aug) and Geminids (Dec)
Tips for Stargazing location Around Shimla
- Pack warm clothes – Nights become cold, even in summer.
- Utilize stargazing apps such as Sky View or Star Walk to recognize stars.
- Skip full moon nights – Moonlight can overpower dim stars.
- Overnight stay at a homestay or camp to witness the night sky in all its glory.
- Be considerate of nature – Leave no trace and don’t use bright lights.
Shimla and its surrounding hills provide exquisite venues for stargazing locations around Shimla and rich with natural beauty. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or an aspiring astronomer, these quiet sojourns offer the ideal retreat under the stars.
Experience the enchantment of the night sky in Himachal Pradesh’s quiet elevations, where every spark speaks a tale and every quiet night attunes you to the universe.
