Tag: best hotel near chail

Shimla & Kufri: A 2026 Guide to Heritage, Peaks, and Hidden Luxury

If you’re planning a trip to Shimla this year, you’re likely looking for that perfect balance: the nostalgia of colonial “Old Shimla” mixed with the quiet, snowy majesty of the mountains. While the city center is where the action is, the area near Kufri is where the actual peace resides.

Here is how to experience the best of both worlds, from the iconic sights to a stay that feels like a private Himalayan retreat.

1. The “Must-Dos” in Shimla City

Before you retreat to the quiet of the woods, spend a day soaking up the city’s heritage. Shimla’s charm is best explored on foot:

  • The Ridge & Mall Road: This is the social heart of town. Grab a coffee, visit the iconic yellow Christ Church, and enjoy the mountain views—all in a vehicle-free zone.

  • The Jakhoo Temple: A short, steep hike (or a quick ropeway ride) takes you to the highest point in Shimla. The giant Hanuman statue is impressive, but the panoramic views of the Shivalik range are the real prize.

  • The UNESCO Toy Train: If you’re coming from Kalka, this slow-moving train through 103 tunnels is a mandatory “bucket list” item. It’s like traveling through a living 19th-century postcard.

2. The Kufri Escape: Adventure & Quiet

Just 15 km away from the city, Kufri is Shimla’s wilder, cooler cousin. In 2026, it remains the go-to spot for skiing, tobogganing, and the Himalayan Nature Park. It’s higher, snowier, and significantly quieter than the main town—making it the perfect place to base your stay.

3. Where to Stay: Toshali Royal View Resort

If you want luxury without the “Mall Road” noise, Toshali Royal View is widely considered the best 4-star resort in the Kufri-Shilon Bagh area. It’s built on a ridge that offers a 180-degree view of the valley, making it feel far more exclusive than its price tag suggests.

Why visitors love it:

  • The Balcony View: Every room is designed to face the peaks. Waking up to the sunrise over the Himalayas from your bed is a standard feature here, not an upgrade.

  • Heritage Vibe, Modern Comfort: The resort uses a lot of warm wood and colonial-style architecture. You get the “Old Shimla” feel but with 2026 essentials like fast Wi-Fi and excellent central heating.

  • The Viceroy Restaurant: It’s one of the few places in the area where you can get authentic local Himachali Dham alongside high-quality continental food.

  • Location: You’re perfectly placed between Shimla and Chail, allowing you to skip the city traffic while remaining close to the Kufri adventure parks.

Quick Traveler Tip

Shimla in 2026 is beautiful but busy. To get the most out of your trip, visit the city sights in the morning and retreat to Toshali Royal View by mid-afternoon. Watching the sunset with a drink at their “Head Over Hills” bar is the most relaxing way to end a day of sightseeing.

The Himalayan Sanctuary: Why Toshali Royal View Resort Reigns in Kufri

If you are looking to escape the “tourist trap” vibes of main Shimla while still keeping the snow-capped peaks within arm’s reach, Toshali Royal View Resort in Kufri is effectively your mountain headquarters. Positioned at the heart of the “Golden Triangle” (Shimla, Kufri, and Chail), this 4-star sanctuary offers a blend of colonial-inspired architecture and modern Himalayan hospitality.

Rooms That Do the Heavy Lifting

The standout feature here isn’t just the thread count; it’s the unobstructed valley views. Most of the 77 rooms—ranging from Executive Deluxe to the more expansive Royal Duplexes—feature private balconies. Whether you’re staying in a cozy studio or a multi-level suite, the morning ritual usually involves coffee, a crisp mountain breeze, and a front-row seat to the Shilon Bagh valley.

  • Royal Duplex: Perfect for families who want a bit of “upstairs-downstairs” privacy.

  • Executive Suites: Ideal for those who need a dedicated sitting area for work or lounging.

  • Dining and Wellness: Mountain Therapy

The resort’s Viceroy Restaurant caters to a wide palate, serving everything from local Himachali flavors to international staples. After a day of trekking or navigating the Mall Road, the Head Over Hills Bar offers a cozy spot to unwind

If the mountain air isn’t enough to rejuvenate you, the on-site Ayurveda Spa provides a more clinical approach to relaxation. With a sauna, steam room, and a well-equipped gym, it hits all the 4-star benchmarks for a wellness retreat.

Activities for Every Age

Unlike many mountain hotels that offer little more than a bed and a view, Toshali leans into its resort status:

  • For Kids: A dedicated playground and arcade room keep the younger crowd busy.

  • Indoor Games: Billiards and table tennis are available for some friendly competition.

  • Evenings: Regular bonfires and live music often turn the lobby or terrace into a social hub.