About Kufri

Kufri is a hill station town at an altitude of 7000 feet in Himachal Pradesh state, India. Himalayan Monal, the state bird till 2007, is found here. Western Tragopan alias Jujurana (local name) is the current state bird. Kufr means lake in the local language and hence got its name.

Kufri Wildlife Zoo is known for the Himalayan species of birds and animals. The zoo has Antilopes and Felines along with Himalayan birds like Himalayan Monal. It’s located around 14 kilometers from Shimla.

This Himalayan Nature Park is spread over 90 hectares of land, at an altitude of 2,600 meters. It is home to many wild animals of the Western Himalayas. Indira Tourist Park is another nearby park that gives you a panoramic view of the nearby areas.

Himalayan Monal

Himalayan Monal (Lophophorus impejanus) at Kufri

The Himalayan Monal, also known as the Impeyan Monal, inhabits the high-altitude forests of the Himalayas, ranging between 2,000 and 4,500 metres, where it prefers quiet coniferous and mixed forests rich in rhododendron and bamboo. Usually seen alone or occasionally in pairs, it never gathers in large groups. The male is striking and unmistakable, with brilliant, metallic colours and a distinctive green crest, while the female is more subtly coloured, perfectly camouflaged for survival.

Breeding takes place from April to August, during which the male performs elaborate displays—dancing, fanning its feathers, and calling loudly—while the female builds a simple nest on a hillside and guards the eggs with quiet determination. Although the species is protected under the Wildlife Protection Act and currently listed as Least Concern, shrinking forests and increasing human disturbance continue to pose serious threats to its natural habitat.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

Hip Hip Hurray is a famous Amusement cum Adventure Park that is popular with the tourists. Kufri Fun Campus is another park at about 2.5 kilometers away. The town is also known for its popular ski tracks. In winter, the meandering potato fames turn into ski tracks.

Horseback riding and Yak Riding are also popular among the tourists here. This town is also known for its scenic beauty. This small town was the summer retreat of many erstwhile princely states of India. Mahasu Peak is the highest point here.

There are many souvenir shops in this hill station town.

How to Reach Kufri?

Kufri is located in Shimla district. It at around 13 kilometers from Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh state. National Highway 22 connects these two cities.

Shimla has an airport and railway station. Chandigarh airport is around 130 kilometers distance. Kufri town connects Narkanda, Rampur, and Shimla towns by roads.

April to June is the summer season here, ideal for tourists. November to March are perfect for Skiing enthusiasts to visit this hill station town.