Theog to Kufri Travel Guide

The drive from Theog to Kufri is only about 22 km along NH-5 and the Fagu–Kufri road, but it packs in some of the nicest scenery in the upper Shimla hills. Because Theog itself is off the standard tourist radar, this stretch is quieter than the Shimla–Kufri road, which makes it a genuinely pleasant drive rather than a traffic-bound transfer.

Leave Theog heading east on NH-5 and you will reach Fagu within about 10 minutes. Fagu is a tiny village surrounded by apple orchards and potato fields, with roadside viewpoints looking toward the greater Himalaya. It is the natural first stop — pull over for a few minutes, take in the view, and maybe stop at one of the small dhabas for chai.

From Fagu, the road continues to Kufri. The landscape shifts from open orchard country into denser cedar forest as you climb, and the air gets noticeably cooler. The drive is straightforward in good weather, but in winter (January and February) this stretch can see snow, so check road conditions before you set out — the road to Kufri can occasionally close for short periods after heavy snowfall.

Once you reach Kufri, the main draws are the Himalayan Nature Park — home to local wildlife including snow leopards and bears, set in a cedar forest — and the views from Mahasu Peak. A short walk or horse ride up the peak gives you a broad panorama of the surrounding ranges. If you are visiting in winter, basic snow activities like tobogganing are available, though this is also when Kufri is at its most crowded.

The smartest way to do this route is to base yourself near Theog rather than in Kufri. Alpine Crest Homestay in Village Kathot sits on the Theog ridge, a short drive from the highway, so you can drive up to Kufri for the morning sights and be back at the homestay for a slow lunch on the balcony. You get Kufri's views and the Nature Park without staying in the crowded town, and you avoid the Kufri traffic on a busy day.