Travelers with kids-in-tow will be counting the kilometers until they reach the Himachal Tourism operated Indira Tourist Park near Kufri, Himachal Pradesh. For just Rs 5, parents can let their kids loose to play in a safe, carefree environment under the forest covered Himalayan foothills. Located roughly 16 kilometers from Shimla, and approximately 25 kilometers from Chail, this small nature park with stellar panoramic views of the mountains is a popular local favorite.
Weekends are a crush of families endlessly looking for the few parking spots near the park entrance. Early morning visitors are treated to prime parking, no lines or waiting to get past the front gates. Himalayan yaks are on display for photographs as well as for short rides.
For the truly adventurous, horse rides* are offered through wooded trails just north of the park. Crowds can be horrendous during tourist season, even at early morning hours. Food stalls plus a cafe inside the Indira Tourist Park help to curb hungry appetites while passing the day away. And no tourist trap is complete without the endless row of shopping stalls. Oddly placed, and annoying for passing traffic, the shops at Indira Tourist Park spill onto the narrow road opposite the main parking lot, clogging the already crowded pathway.
Come early to avoid the worst of queues, and remember to bring lots of small bills for this tourist destination where everything comes at a price.
Where to Stay Nearby
*Horses are brought from neighboring villages up to 5 kilometers away. They arrive early, stand and perform rides all day with little break or care, and then take the long walk back home. Animal lovers will want to skip this activity.
