NATURE TRAILS

Being a hotbed of nature, Shimla harbours several natural treasure troves in its heavily wooded hills.

Nestled in a forested setting in Kufri is the Himalayan

9 Nature Park—a zoo and scientific institution engaged in animal welfare and wildlife conservation. It houses a variety of Himalayan fauna such as Barking Deer, Blue Sheep, Brown Bear, Kashmir Stag and others. The 10 Himalayan Bird Park is another peaceful spot that’s home to many native and exotic birds, including the stunning Monal, the state bird of Himachal Pradesh. Developed as a playground for the city, Annandale is a scenic spot surrounded by towering conifers. Picnics, golf, polo and cricket matches are regularly organised here. Located inside the 11 Glen forest, 12 Chadwick Falls trickles down from a height of about 100 metres, and makes for a tranquil picture amidst a dense jungle. Situated in the 13 Kotkhai Valley near Shimla, Kiala Forest makes for a great hike with dense foliage and numerous indigenous creatures for company.