At the height level of 2500 m lies a calm as well as snow-clad hamlet, Fagu which is only a short drive from Shimla (45 km). It is best known for its apple orchards, sowing fields and the snow capped Himalayan ranges in the background. Fagu is a honeymooner’s paradise. It is also a favorite of trekkers and naturalists.
People say Fagu got its name from the word fog. For almost 9 months a year, fog totally engulfs it. Large beautiful green Pine and Cedar Trees with a peaceful scenic landscape surround the entire area. Plus, there are apple trees as well that have big beautiful red apples. Potato Fields are also easy to find. Fagu-Himachal Also offers a nice view of snow-clad mountains, and you can see animals like the rare breed of Himalayan ponies.
The picturesque view of the hills & its beauty is really enhancing. Shimla & Kufri, 18 km & 6 km respectively are two other mesmerizing destinations that come in close proximity. The city is bounded by the Western Himalayas in the North & Shivalik in the east bordering the state of Punjab.
Things to do in Fagu
Hike or Take a Stroll
The whole of Fagu is picturesque and you can go on a walk to enjoy it all. Fagu-Himachal is also a base to several short hikes in apple orchards and pine forest. Fagu to Chharabra Trek, Through the dense forests with mesmerizing views of surrounding mountains and valleys. It is a moderate trek and one can complete it within 2-3 hours, hence good for beginners as well.
Yet another charming walk that starts off from Fagu and ends its way to Theog, which is a small town with apple orchards and surrounded by dreamy landscapes. This trek can be considered as easy and provides a tranquil walk in the middle of rows of pine trees.
Apple Orchards
Fagu is the place where you can see apple and peas cultivation everywhere. Taking a tour of these farms will allow you to roam around as well as get enlightened on apple and potato cultivation. The apple orchards in fagu are best visited during the time of harvesting season, which starts from late August and lasts till October. The orchards are winding down where locals pick ripe apples and prepare them for market.
Bhantia Devta Temple
A beautifully architected temple known as Bhatia Devta Temple is constructed in wooden carvings here. This Temple is a very old temple in the Fagu Valley amidst mountains of Himachal Pradesh, India. Devoted to the local deity Bhantia Devta, this temple is quite popular amongst the locals for cultural and religious significance. The followers visit the temple to get their wishes fulfilled and pray that Bhantia Devta may keep them safe from harm.
Chharabra Sunset and Sunrise Point
Alternatively, you can also trek from Fagu up to the village of Chharabra by crossing Tattapani stream. Chharabra also has the best sunrises and sunset views. Tourists come here for the panoramic sunrises and sundowns. A tour that is a must visit, especially for the nature enthusiasts and photographers who want to be at peace amidst the natural setting. The perfect place to capture memories and relax in the peaceful calmness of the Himalayas.
How to Reach Fagu
By Air
Shimla Airport is the nearest airport roughly 20 min from Fagu. There are daily flights from Delhi to Chandigarh. The next closest is Chandigarh Airport which will take around 3 and half hour drive from all basic air terminals in the city. It has direct flights from Amritsar, New Delhi and makes 13 other cities interstate like Bangalore Mumbai Goa Ahmedabad Jaipur Leh among others.
Via Rail/ Train
Shimla Railway station is the nearest railway station at 18 Kms from Fagu.
By Road
It is located 6 Kms from Kufri,15 Kms away from Shilon Bagh,12 Km distance from Mashobra18 km from Shimla,40 km from Chail, 153 km from Chandigarh. It is linked with the above cities by Himachal Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (HPSRTC) and some private travel services.
Distance Chart of Fagu–Himachal Pradesh
| Location | Distance/ Time |
| Fagu to Shimla | 17 KM / 40 mins. |
| Fagu to Kullu | 200 KM/ 6 hrs |
| Fagu to Chandigarh | 148 KM/ 5 hrs |
Travel Tips To Fagu
- Plan in advance. Do not do your bookings at last especially if you are visiting during peak season.
- Just remember to check their weather before you decide to visit. Make sure you pack even more additional layers if you come in the winter.
- Apart from Fagu itself, make sure to explore the areas around it.
- Make a picnic, go for long walks. It really is the best way to experience this natural wonder.
- Always carry an emergency kit along with you. Trust me you’ll be glad. It is terribly frustrating when you cannot find a scrap of band-aid to save your life.
- Be respectful of the culture and people.
- Make sure to wear comfortable shoes & carry warm clothing.
- Try local cuisines.
Climate and When to Visit to Fagu
All over the year Fagu has pleasant weather and is favored by all of us. Temperatures vary between 10°C to 25° C.
Ideal seasons for visit: March– June and September – November.
That is when you will surely find mild & pleasant weather. If you are a trekking, camping and hiking lover then this is the best time to visit. Winters are cold but good for skiing, snowboarding.
Shopping in Fagu
Fagu is famous for handicrafts and wool. It is a good place for buying handicraft and kashmiri shawls, souvenirs. You can get them for less than ‘The Mall”. The range may also not be much as there are very few local vendors selling their stock on stalls.
Exploring the Wildlife Of Fagu
If you love animals then Fagu is not less than a wonderland for the wildlife lovers. You can find rare and endangered species of animals and birds and so on. You can also visit the Shimla Water Catchment Sanctuary that is in proximity to Fagu-Shimla. The sanctuary is a home to many species of birds including the Himalayan monal, koklass pheasant and western tragopan. If you are even luckier, Malayan black bear, barking deer and leopard might make an appearance.
Places To Visit Near Fagu Valley
Below mentioned is where you can visit in and around Fagu Valley:
- Theog
- Kufri
- Mashobra
- Naldehra
- Hatu Peak
- Tatapani
- Chail
- Churdhar Sanctuary
Theog:
Theog is a stunning hill-top city in the lush lap of Himachal Pradesh. This city let’s Go to the magnitude of waves for a panoramic view of Greater Himalaya. Perfectly located at an elevation of 2,310 meters and approximately a half hour drive from Mashobra, this scenic beauty offers lush green forests consisting mainly of pine and deodar trees along with high mountains.
Kufri:
During your visit to Kufri & Fagu, you will relax in the mesmerizing charm of towering mountains touched with Pine forests, deep vibrant valleys, waterbeds and gushing cascades. Here you can see snow leopards, yaks and ponies in their natural habitat. Plus, you can also spoil yourself by enjoying adventurous things like hiking, tobogganing or skiing.
Mashobra:
An idyllic hill station located off the Hindustan-Tibet road, 12 km away from Shimla known for its exquisite & sprawling apple orchards and soul soothing trekking trails while being surrounded by dense forests of pines, oak and rhododendron trees as well as jars upon jars of some astonishingly fresh jam and pickles which you can take home or feast right there! It is also the residence of the official summer President of India.
Naldehra:
Naldehra is a small captivating hill station of Himachal Pradesh, it is just 22 km far from the city Shimla. Best suited for tourists who are looking at natural lush green surroundings surrounded by paddy fields and away from the hustle bustle. Naldehra is known for its lush greenery, golf course and the snow capped mountains of pine, cedar and deodar trees.
Hatu Peak:
Located at a height of around 12,000 feet , It is the highest summit in Shimla district and just about 8 km from Narkanda. Hatu Peak is the paradise on earth, beautiful mountain ranges surrounded by dense green cedars and for that reach up to touch heavens. It is a famous destination for hiking, camping and sightseeing as it provides panoramic views of the Snow Clad Himalayas along with Lush green valley’s & colorful orchards. Hatu Peak also has a temple of Goddess Kali within it to give you a divine presence and peace.
Tatapani:
One of the famous places is Tattapani, 55 Kms from Shimla which serves as a thrilling spot to relax tired nerves in Hot water springs. Natives have faith in the springs and banks of river Satluj, due to their medicinal importance. The Springs Offer A Great Relief From The Joint Pain, Fatigue And Several Skin Diseases. If you like to do simple -easy difficult rafting then Tatapani is the best place.
Chail:
You can see the time standing still here, you will find nature at its best dates as unfortunate as 100 years ago and you are amazed to hear the words pollution & deforestation do not exist in any dictionary of chail people. The history of Chail Has a lot to offer. It was formerly a constituent of Keonthal State. Subsequently it fell to the hands of Gorkha warrior Amer Singh.
Churdhar Sanctuary:
Churdhar Sanctuary, Himachal Pradesh Located at the highest peak of outer Himalayas in Sirmour District on its Western Slope. Located amidst the alpine trees and green grassy meadows these sanctuaries offer just the perfect setting for wild encounters in Himachal Pradesh. From this peak wildlife enthusiasts can carry back some stunning views from the top of this peak
Where To Stay In Fagu Valley
These are some of the best 4 star and 5-star hotels in Fagu valley :
The Castle Resort Fagu
Location: Fagu Top, Himachal Pradesh 171209
Overview: A luxury resort known for its comfortable rooms and wonderful serene atmosphere, with a view of beautiful mountains & forests
Snow King Retreat
Address: Fagu Top, Kufri-Chail Road, Fagu Shimla 171209 Himachal Pradesh
Details: Nestled in the pine forests, this retreat is one of those promises that delivers open to air rooms and cottages overlooking nature at its best.
HPTDC The Apple Blossom
Location: Fagu, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171209
Short Description: Run by Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation, The Apple Blossom is surrounded with the picturesque surroundings in luxury rooms to provide comfort away from home.
Galleu Hill Resort
Location: Kufri Fagu Road, Himachal Pradesh
Known for its hospitality and scenic beauty, Sunny Snowview Resort offers a variety of accommodations ranging from rooms to cottages.
Fagu Tea Estate Bungalow
Location: Fagu, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171209
About: A colonial style heritage property that lies amongst tea gardens and provides a different experience with its old world charm.
Fagu Valley, Himachal Pradesh has a number of nice hotels where one can have an experience staying for a couple days while sightseeing around the city. Advise to call Hotels ahead and reserve, especially during peak tourism season.
Places To Eat In Fagu Valley Himachal
Flavours
This cafe not only served delicious bites but also some scenic views of lovely mountains and woodlands. A nice place to relax and eat a quiet meal with. It is a popular choice for tourists visiting Fagu valley & nearby attractions. The ambience of this restaurant is typically warm & inviting.
Snow King Retreat Cafe
The Chuski Cafe located in the Snow King Retreat is a decked up cafe amidst pine trees – for light snack items and a couple of meals. The surroundings are very peaceful and you would be spending some great time here just relaxing in peace with nature.
Apple Blossom Cafe
This cafe is a part of the HPTDC Apple Blossom property and has an alluring vibe to it where you can relish your tea or by coffee along with some munchies. It is a great place to relax & soak in the natural beauty of surroundings. The ambience of this restaurant is typically warm & inviting.
Local Dhabas, Small Eateries
If you are traveling by road to Fagu Valley, stop over to some small local dhabas (roadside eateries)and cafes for a variety of traditional Himachali snacks or meals which is a great way of experiencing the place to an authentic level. Those are the places where you will experience a more authentic culinary discovery.
Kufri Treat Caf
Offering a multi-cuisine restaurant, Kufri Treat is situated in the close vicinity at Kufri. This is one of the common pick up points for those visiting Fagu Valley or coming from other destinations. It is a perfect spot to unwind & enjoy a peaceful meal.
If you are a foodie while visiting Fagu-Valley, then truly must try out these cafes in the valley which have limited options but offer an amazing background of good food with such serene ambiance while sitting and eating nature all along. Please call in advance or check online for hours of service and Availability especially during the off season.
F&Q’s
Q.1. Are Fagu and Kufri the same?
Ans: Although Fagu is different from Kufri, both are in the close vicinity of each other and near Shimla range in Himachal Pradesh. While Fagu is known for its serenity, apple plantations and temples, Kufri thrives on the newer image of adventure sports; wildlife zoo besides winter sport destination
Q.2. What is special in Fagu?
Ans: Fagu: Offering stunning views of the surrounding Himalayas. Surrounded with green forests of pine, cedar and oak they are truly a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts. The apple orchards are one of the main attractions in Fagu. This valley houses many active orchards, which get filled with flowers of apple trees during the apple blooming season in spring.
Q.3. What is the history of Fagu?
Ans: Fagu-Himachal Pradesh, as is with most of Himachal Pradesh has a rich and varied history that influenced itself over the various cultures and rulers. It had previously been part of the Kingdom of Nepal and was later annexed by British India in 1815 after defeating the Gorkha army, who went on to form modern-day Nepal. Fagu was a popular place of the British during their rule, which they chose as the summertime residence thereafter many respected officers settled here just because of its scenic beauty and climate. The Himalayas saw many hill stations developed by the British for their summer retreat and administrative centers.
Q.4. Which is the nearest airport to Fagu-Himachal Pradesh?
Ans: Shimla Airport/Jubbarhatti (The nearest airport for Fagu, Himachal Pradesh) It is around 45 km from Fagu. The Shimla Airport is a small domestic airport, with connections to Delhi through regional airlines such as Alliance Air and Air India.
