logo

Planning A Night Trek? Here's What You Need To Know Near Shimla!

India.com2 days ago

Shimla functions as the picturesque capital of Himachal Pradesh while earning fame from its verdant forests combined with peaceful landscapes and refreshing temperatures. The region attracts both day and night trekkers but night treks deliver an exclusive interaction with nature under the night sky. Safety elements together with logistics and environmental responsibility must receive careful thought before undertaking a night trek. The following article provides all necessary instructions for organizing an unforgettable yet risk-free forest night hike around Shimla.
1.Choose the Right Location
Different regions surrounding Shimla have multiple hiking trails available for night activities. Popular options include:
Jakhoo Hill maintains its status as a must-visit spot because of its cedar forests and Jakhoo Temple which lead to moderate treks that reveal breathtaking views.
Chail Wildlife Sanctuary near Shimla provides visitors to enjoy wildlife viewing combined with trail walking through forested areas.
Kufri Forests represents an excellent overnight trekking destination near Shimla because its clearly identified paths make it perfect for novices.
Research every prospective trail meticulously to understand its difficulty level alongside its accessibility information and whether you can complete night treks in that location.
2.Check Weather Conditions
Night trek feasibility depends heavily on the current weather conditions. Shimla follows an unpredictable pattern of weather conditions before monsoon sets in and during the winter months. It is essential to review weather forecasts that show clear skies and gentle temperatures before attempting your safe trip. Expected safe conditions do not exist during heavy rainfalls or snow falls because the trails will become hazardous with slippery surfaces. Nighttime temperatures in Shimla reach very low levels thus requiring appropriate preparation.
3.Gather Necessary Gear
Accomplishing a night trek demands the right equipment. The necessary items for your night trek include:
Headlamp or Flashlight stands as a vital element because it provides essential illumination to see through nighttime forests.
Bring thermal layers with gloves along with a windproof jacket as night temperatures will significantly drop.
Make your footwear investment in stout and water-resistant hiking shoes because they are suitable for uneven ground conditions.
Backpack Essentials : Include water bottles, energy snacks, a first-aid kit, a map or GPS device, and a whistle for emergencies.
Keep safety and comfort in mind yet minimize your load of unnecessary items.
4.Plan Your Route and Timing
The planning of your journey before starting makes for an optimal trekking experience. Cellular apps including Google Maps together with AllTrails and local trails guides will help you get acquainted with the trail route. Design the beginning location followed by essential stopping points to the final destination. Set out on your expedition early enough that you will reach safety before complete darkness consumes the scene. Acclimatization time during this period lets you prepare campsite locations when necessary.
5.Local guidance is highly beneficial when hiking trails (Recommended as an optional service).
Anyone with trekking experience might attempt solo exploration but working with a local guide will deliver a superior experience. Guides possess expert knowledge of all aspects related to terrain conditions and efficient paths as well as dangerous situational risks. She knows how to identify local plants and animals while sharing knowledge about the cultural legacy in that area. A guide provides peace of mind because they stay available to help if any emergencies occur.
6.Practice Leave No Trace Principles
Protect the environment through carrying out activities according to Leave No Trace principles. The guidelines stress human beings should create minimal disturbance to natural ecosystems.
Keep reusable water bottle containers with you while preventing the use of plastic products one time per use.
Every type of waste and food packaging, in addition to compostable materials must be placed inside containers for removal from the site.
Footpaths should remain your sole path to protect both the land surface and vegetation from harm.
The practice of disturbing wildlife and picking plants should be avoided.
Your practice of these principles actively safeguards the forest beauty of Shimla which will benefit future generations.
7.Prioritize Safety Measures
Safety must be your number one concern before starting any night walking expedition. Follow these important ideas when trekking at night:
Tell Someone About What You Are Doing : Show friends and family your complete schedule and specify how long you will be gone along with your contact information.
The safety factor improves when you travel in groups because multiple persons create an effective protection system.
Watch your environment closely while you stay vigilant for rocks along with tree roots which may lead to unexpected drops in elevation.
The forests surrounding Shimla contain wild boars along with leopards. If you spot wildlife it is crucial to keep silent and maintain a suitable distance from the animals' path.
Emergency Contacts : Save the numbers of local authorities, forest officials, and medical services in your phone.
An additional tip regarding night photography requires you to practice responsible photographic techniques.
Night treks provide exceptional photographic chances to record both formations of the Milky Way and bioluminescent fungi scenic compositions. People interested in astrophotography need to carry a tripod along with a camera equipped for extended exposure periods. Reduce the use of artificial illumination because it interferes with the natural environment and disrupts nighttime creatures.
Final Thoughts
Exploring the forested regions surrounding Shimla at night creates an energizing opportunity for individuals to both engage with nature and enjoy the Himalayas during evening hours. Your selection of an appropriate location together with proper preparation along with environmental respect and safety measures will lead to extraordinary experiences that support responsible exploration. Newcomers and experienced trekkers can both find enchanted wilderness experiences in the Shimla forest area. Set out on your stargazing adventure now with your needed equipment joined by your traveling companions; do it in a way that preserves nature by trailing softly without scattering any waste.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Planning A Night Trek? Here's What You Need To Know Near Shimla!
Planning A Night Trek? Here's What You Need To Know Near Shimla!

India.com

time2 days ago

  • India.com

Planning A Night Trek? Here's What You Need To Know Near Shimla!

Shimla functions as the picturesque capital of Himachal Pradesh while earning fame from its verdant forests combined with peaceful landscapes and refreshing temperatures. The region attracts both day and night trekkers but night treks deliver an exclusive interaction with nature under the night sky. Safety elements together with logistics and environmental responsibility must receive careful thought before undertaking a night trek. The following article provides all necessary instructions for organizing an unforgettable yet risk-free forest night hike around Shimla. the Right Location Different regions surrounding Shimla have multiple hiking trails available for night activities. Popular options include: Jakhoo Hill maintains its status as a must-visit spot because of its cedar forests and Jakhoo Temple which lead to moderate treks that reveal breathtaking views. Chail Wildlife Sanctuary near Shimla provides visitors to enjoy wildlife viewing combined with trail walking through forested areas. Kufri Forests represents an excellent overnight trekking destination near Shimla because its clearly identified paths make it perfect for novices. Research every prospective trail meticulously to understand its difficulty level alongside its accessibility information and whether you can complete night treks in that location. Weather Conditions Night trek feasibility depends heavily on the current weather conditions. Shimla follows an unpredictable pattern of weather conditions before monsoon sets in and during the winter months. It is essential to review weather forecasts that show clear skies and gentle temperatures before attempting your safe trip. Expected safe conditions do not exist during heavy rainfalls or snow falls because the trails will become hazardous with slippery surfaces. Nighttime temperatures in Shimla reach very low levels thus requiring appropriate preparation. Necessary Gear Accomplishing a night trek demands the right equipment. The necessary items for your night trek include: Headlamp or Flashlight stands as a vital element because it provides essential illumination to see through nighttime forests. Bring thermal layers with gloves along with a windproof jacket as night temperatures will significantly drop. Make your footwear investment in stout and water-resistant hiking shoes because they are suitable for uneven ground conditions. Backpack Essentials : Include water bottles, energy snacks, a first-aid kit, a map or GPS device, and a whistle for emergencies. Keep safety and comfort in mind yet minimize your load of unnecessary items. Your Route and Timing The planning of your journey before starting makes for an optimal trekking experience. Cellular apps including Google Maps together with AllTrails and local trails guides will help you get acquainted with the trail route. Design the beginning location followed by essential stopping points to the final destination. Set out on your expedition early enough that you will reach safety before complete darkness consumes the scene. Acclimatization time during this period lets you prepare campsite locations when necessary. guidance is highly beneficial when hiking trails (Recommended as an optional service). Anyone with trekking experience might attempt solo exploration but working with a local guide will deliver a superior experience. Guides possess expert knowledge of all aspects related to terrain conditions and efficient paths as well as dangerous situational risks. She knows how to identify local plants and animals while sharing knowledge about the cultural legacy in that area. A guide provides peace of mind because they stay available to help if any emergencies occur. Leave No Trace Principles Protect the environment through carrying out activities according to Leave No Trace principles. The guidelines stress human beings should create minimal disturbance to natural ecosystems. Keep reusable water bottle containers with you while preventing the use of plastic products one time per use. Every type of waste and food packaging, in addition to compostable materials must be placed inside containers for removal from the site. Footpaths should remain your sole path to protect both the land surface and vegetation from harm. The practice of disturbing wildlife and picking plants should be avoided. Your practice of these principles actively safeguards the forest beauty of Shimla which will benefit future generations. Safety Measures Safety must be your number one concern before starting any night walking expedition. Follow these important ideas when trekking at night: Tell Someone About What You Are Doing : Show friends and family your complete schedule and specify how long you will be gone along with your contact information. The safety factor improves when you travel in groups because multiple persons create an effective protection system. Watch your environment closely while you stay vigilant for rocks along with tree roots which may lead to unexpected drops in elevation. The forests surrounding Shimla contain wild boars along with leopards. If you spot wildlife it is crucial to keep silent and maintain a suitable distance from the animals' path. Emergency Contacts : Save the numbers of local authorities, forest officials, and medical services in your phone. An additional tip regarding night photography requires you to practice responsible photographic techniques. Night treks provide exceptional photographic chances to record both formations of the Milky Way and bioluminescent fungi scenic compositions. People interested in astrophotography need to carry a tripod along with a camera equipped for extended exposure periods. Reduce the use of artificial illumination because it interferes with the natural environment and disrupts nighttime creatures. Final Thoughts Exploring the forested regions surrounding Shimla at night creates an energizing opportunity for individuals to both engage with nature and enjoy the Himalayas during evening hours. Your selection of an appropriate location together with proper preparation along with environmental respect and safety measures will lead to extraordinary experiences that support responsible exploration. Newcomers and experienced trekkers can both find enchanted wilderness experiences in the Shimla forest area. Set out on your stargazing adventure now with your needed equipment joined by your traveling companions; do it in a way that preserves nature by trailing softly without scattering any waste.

Why Chongqing In China Has Become An Instagram-Favourite Travel Destination
Why Chongqing In China Has Become An Instagram-Favourite Travel Destination

NDTV

time2 days ago

  • NDTV

Why Chongqing In China Has Become An Instagram-Favourite Travel Destination

Show Quick Read Summary is AI-generated, newsroom-reviewed Imagine going to a city where the petrol stations are on roofs, trains run through residential buildings, buses float in the sky, there are elevators for cars, multi-storey restaurants on rivers, and when you think you're on the ground floor, you're actually on the 22nd. Welcome to Chongqing where even Google Maps as well as China's navigation apps Baidu Maps and AMap struggle to make sense of the city's chaotic topography and multi-level madness. With over 32 million residents, it is the largest city in the world by urban population, and easily one of the most unique by design. "Look closely here. You would think that we are on the ground floor, but in reality, we are on the 22nd floor of a storied building," excitedly claims Malina aka Malinavibes, a travel vlogger in one of her travel vlogs. Her video on YouTube panning from what looks like a regular pavement down to an endless drop. Malina is among thousands of creators who've made Chongqing the 'most viral city' in Asia right now. For context, Chongqing is one of China's national central cities and is a direct-administered municipality in Southwestern China. It is around 1800 kms from China's capital, Beijing. '186% Rise In Tourism' The buzz isn't just online. According to local media outlets, Chongqing's inbound tourism market has exploded, welcoming 1.27 million tourists in 2024 alone-up 183.6 % from the previous year. The city now ranks among China's top travel destinations on social media platforms, especially TikTok, Instagram and Xiaohongshu (China's Instagram equivalent). Chongqing's cultural industry has also flourished, generating Rs 1.67 lakh crore (145.27 billion yuan) in added value, up 5.6 % from 2023. The tourism sector alone grew by 7.4 % with most visitors coming from Southeast Asia. A growing number of Indians too are exploring the city, thanks to improved visa policies and better connectivity. However, the top reason why Chongqing is gaining popularity is because of the way it's built. But, Why Is Chongqing Built That Way? To understand Chongqing, you need to know its geography. This is a mountain city, nestled at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, with massive elevation changes. The city is essentially a series of plateaus, hills and cliffs stitched together by bridges, tunnels, escalators and flyovers. Because of the terrain, developers built vertically instead of horizontally. Hence, a building in Chongqing could have entrances on the 1st, 10th, and 20th floor, depending on which side of the property you're on. For instance, the viral Liziba Station, where a train cuts through a residential complex, is not a quirky design decision - it's an urban necessity. Its design is a response to the need to maximise space and connectivity in a challenging environment. This unique city has now been given various names, such as "5D city" or "cyberpunk city", which only add to its popularity. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dylan Page (@ The city infrastructure was also impacted by various historical events. For instance, during World War II, Chongqing served as China's wartime capital, enduring heavy bombing campaigns. This led to the development of underground shelters and tunnels, which later influenced the city's layered urban structure. Additionally, the war accelerated rapid urban expansion, as refugees and government institutions relocated to the city. Now, let's look at the other reasons. Direct Flights And Easy Visas In recent years, there has been a shift in how China is approaching tourism. Once known for its stringent visa policies, the country is now making travel more accessible - even for Indians. Recently, China relaxed visa rules to foster tourism and business opportunities for Indian travellers. The new policy allows them to experience the country with simplified documentation. Between January and April 2025, the Chinese Embassy in India issued over 85,000 visas to Indian citizens. Whether for leisure, business, or backpacking, the doors to China are now more open than ever. While Chongqing was once a challenging destination, there are now direct flights from Bangkok, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. With plans underway to restore and expand direct connectivity with India, particularly from New Delhi and Kolkata, we can only expect the popularity to continue growing. Improved air routes and easier accessibility have further fuelled travel demand. A Dream For Content Creators Social media has transformed travel trends, turning once-hidden gems into global hotspots almost overnight. Chongqing, with its futuristic skyline, neon-lit streets, and multi-level roads, has become a visual spectacle that thrives on digital exposure. View this post on Instagram A post shared by SHEV AND DEV | Travel Creator (@shev_n_dev) From drone shots of mist-covered mountains surrounding skyscrapers to timelapses of the cable cars gliding over a buzzing city and Yangtze river, Chongqing offers endless content opportunities. No wonder #Chongqing is rising fast on global platforms such as Instagram, YouTube and TikTok. Super Efficient (And Trippy) Transport System The CRT (Chongqing Rail Transit) is a marvel in itself, and many just travel to Chongqing to experience this. Trains here defy expectations-rising on stilts, plunging through buildings, and navigating hairpin curves around mountains. Once designed due to space constraints and increasing dense population, the Liziba monorail station in Chongqing is now one of the major tourist attractions. It is a unique structure where a light rail train passes through a 19-storey residential building. The station and building were constructed together as one whole structure, with the monorail integrated into the sixth to eighth floors (without making any noise, btw). Then there are elevated buses and sky bridges which helps people climb massive vertical distances in minutes. Add to that the Yangtze River cableway, where you can glide across the river in a suspended cable car and wave at cargo ships floating below you. Hotpot, Nightlife and Floating Restaurants Food is another major draw. Chongqing is often called the hotpot (which is again popular on social media, even in India) capital of China. You can find souvenirs of hotpots here. The local version is spicier than what you'd find elsewhere, with fiery Sichuan peppercorns that can make your lips tingle for hours. One of the most sought-after experiences? Hotpot on a boat floating down the Yangtze, surrounded by neon reflections of the skyline. Some of these boats are multi-storeyed, complete with karaoke lounges, game zones, and rooftop decks. The nightlife is equally fascinating. Thanks to its tall buildings layered across hills, reflections in the river, and LED-lit bridges, Chongqing's skyline is straight out of a cyberpunk film. Chongqing's Hongya Cave is a fairy-tale complex of stilt houses and restaurants clinging to a cliffside, lit up like a festival every night. It's not just scenic - it's Instagram gold, with a history. The complex is believed to have functioned as a fortress from the time of the ancient Ba State (1046 B.C. - 256 B.C) through the end of the Qing dynasty. Affordable Travel And Accommodation While most big Chinese cities such as Shanghai or Beijing can dent your wallet, Chongqing remains surprisingly affordable. Budget hotels start at around Rs 2,000 per night, hotpot meals are under Rs 500 for two, and local transport services are also reasonable.

7 Tips On How To Stay Fit While Travelling Without Missing Out On The Fun
7 Tips On How To Stay Fit While Travelling Without Missing Out On The Fun

NDTV

time03-06-2025

  • NDTV

7 Tips On How To Stay Fit While Travelling Without Missing Out On The Fun

Quick Read Summary is AI generated, newsroom reviewed. Staying fit while travelling can be easy with smart strategies: walk everywhere, add fitness into your plans, use lightweight gear, choose active accommodations, utilise travel days for recovery, and monitor your diet. Let's be honest: Keeping fit while travelling isn't always easy. Between indulgent local food, long flights, and jam-packed itineraries, your regular workout routine can quickly fall by the wayside. But keeping active on the go doesn't have to mean waking up at 6am to hit the hotel gym. With a few clever tweaks and a little bit of motivation, you can enjoy your holiday and stay in shape — without feeling like you're punishing yourself. Whether you're off on a city break, a beach holiday, or a work trip, here are smart, realistic tips for staying fit while travelling — no bootcamp required. Here Are 7 Essential Tips To Stay Fit While Travelling: 1. Walk Everywhere (Seriously, Everywhere) The simplest way to stay active while travelling? Ditch the taxis and walk. Not only will it help you clock in thousands of steps a day, it's also one of the best ways to see a destination up close. According to the NHS, adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week — and brisk walking counts. Try skipping the metro and walking between sights, or exploring different neighbourhoods on foot. Apps like Citymapper or Google Maps can help you plan pedestrian-friendly routes, and you'll often stumble upon great cafes or viewpoints you'd never spot from a car. 2. Build Fitness Into Your Itinerary This one's all about mindset. Instead of carving out time for a traditional workout, think about how you can sneak fitness into your actual plans. Going to the beach? Swim laps or take a surfing lesson. Visiting the mountains? Schedule in a hike. Heading to Tokyo or New York? Sign up for a dance class or an active city tour. These types of activities also help you experience a destination in a more local, hands-on way — and they burn a fair number of calories while you're at it. 3. Use Carry-On-Friendly Fitness Gear You don't need a suitcase full of gym equipment to stay in shape on the road. Resistance bands, skipping ropes and collapsible yoga mats all pack light and can transform any hotel room or park into a mini gym. Want something even easier? A pair of good-quality trainers and a set of workout clothes are enough to get started. Download bodyweight workout apps like Nike Training Club or FitOn, which offer short routines that can be done anywhere, anytime — many without needing any equipment at all. 4. Opt For Active Accommodation Choosing the right place to stay can make staying fit a lot easier. Many hotels now offer free access to gyms, yoga classes, or even on-site bicycles. Airbnb listings often mention nearby parks or walking trails, and hostels frequently organise walking tours or surf meet-ups. If you prefer something more structured, wellness-focussed stays like Six Senses or COMO Hotels come with guided activities such as pilates, paddleboarding, and meditation sessions. Yes, it's a bit extra — but if fitness is a priority, it's worth the investment. 5. Use Travel Days For Recovery Long flights or train rides can be hard on your body — hello, swollen ankles and tight shoulders. Use these days as your rest or active recovery days. Stretch at the airport, do ankle circles during your flight, and once you land, take a gentle walk to get your circulation moving. Pro tip: Compression socks and a reusable water bottle are lifesavers on long-haul flights. 6. Watch What (And When) You Eat Travel often means indulging in local cuisine — and that's half the fun. But it's easy to go overboard with rich meals, snacks on the go, and late-night cocktails. Try sticking to the 80/20 rule: Eat healthily 80% of the time, and enjoy treats guilt-free the other 20%. Eating heavy meals late at night can also affect sleep and energy levels. Where possible, make lunch your main meal and go lighter in the evening. And don't forget to hydrate — especially on flights or in hot climates. Dehydration can make you feel sluggish and more prone to skipping exercise. 7. Stay Accountable (Without Killing The Vibe) If you need a bit of motivation, set small, achievable goals for your trip — like doing a 10-minute stretch every morning or walking 10,000 steps a day. Travel with a friend who's also keen to stay active, or use an app like Strava to track your movement. You can even treat fitness like a souvenir: Take a photo of each new place you work out in, whether it's a beach in Portugal or a rooftop in Bangkok. It's a fun way to stay consistent and document your travels at the same time.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store