Shimla & Around it

Shimla,  was the Summer capital  of  India under British rule Presently, it is the state capital of Himachal Pradesh, with its population around  1.6 lacs (Shimla town only). Shimla has seen many important historical events such as  the famous Shimla Pact between India & Pakistan which was signed here. The place is also famous  for  its natural beauty, architectural buildings, wooden crafts and apples.

Koti was an erstwhile princely state of India. It extended from Shimla Ridge to beyond the Golf course of Naldhera, which was designed by Lord Curzon in 1905. To commemorate its centenary Koti Golf Cup was held in October 2005. The state extended beyond the famous tourist destination of Kufri where the original capital of the state was established at Mool Koti which is north east of Kufri. The main tourist attraction of today i.e. The Ridge, Naldhera Golf Ground, Mashobra, Charabra (Wild flower Hall) part of Kufri, The Retreat of The President of India, were all part of the Koti State.

Places Around Koti & Shimla
Naldhera: A Viceroy’s Delight: Originally called Nal Deo, the golf course made under the instructions of Lord Curzon was once the world’s highest golf course. Crowned by the magnificent deodhar forest, Naldhera is carpeted with a springing turf. It is said that Lord Curzon was so much taken in by the beauty of the place that he named his daughter after it. A special event called The Koti Golf Cup is hosted every year by the descendants of the late Rana of Koti in the month of October / November.

Tattapani: Another 28 km from Naldhera is Tattapani, where the Satluj flows. The sulphur springs found here are said to be invigorating. A little way down the stream {one could try a hand at fishing}. The management of Koti Resort - a luxury Hotel in Shimla is tying up with a professional team to conduct River Rafting tours in the river.

Craignanoo: Just a kilometer away from Koti Resort is the biggest fruit Research centre of Northern India. Here there are breathtaking gardens with a large variety of apple trees. Craignanoo was the home of the Count of Craignanoo who lived in the Italian Alps & found the scenery of Mashobra & Naldhera so alike his country that he decided to make his home here.

Wild Flower Hall: Originally built by Lord Kitchener the Commander – in – Chief of the British Indian forces to rival the Viceregal Lodge of Lord Curzon was burnt to ashes & has now been revived by the Oberoi group as one of its prime properties. This also falls in the old Koti state & is just 9 km from Craignanoo.

Kufri: Once famous for its Ski slopes is 12km from the Resort. Kufri which was once a quiet getaway now gets crowded with tourist during the season and is losing the sheen it once had. To ensure that you get the best accommodation in Shimla it is advised that its done in advance since during the season the rooms go off fairly quickly.