Timeline
09:00
Shimla Water Catchment Sanctuary
Enter the Shimla Water Catchment Sanctuary early to enjoy the cool air and the tall Himalayan Cedar trees before the day heats up. Remember to bring ₹50 per person for the permit. Monday is the only closed day, so plan accordingly. Hiring a naturalist from Mountain Guides India is recommended to spot the local wildlife like the barking deer and flying squirrel.
10:30
Head to Sher E Punjab for a home-style lunch. The mixed vegetable dish with butter chappathi is a local favorite and reasonably priced. The restaurant is open from 10:00 to 22:00, so it will be ready for you after your forest walk.
11:00
Walk up to Jakhu Park. It is a short 15-minute walk from the restaurant. Spend the rest of the afternoon here enjoying the open space and the panoramic views of Shimla.
Local tip
The sanctuary is closed on Mondays. If you visit on that day, you can still enjoy the food and Jakhu Park, but the forest walk will not be possible.
Check before you go
- Shimla Water Catchment Sanctuary is closed on Mondays.
- Permit fee is ₹50 per person for the sanctuary.
- Sher E Punjab is open 10:00-22:00 daily.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Shimla (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).