Explore Narkanda in March: Weather, Best Places & Travel Guide

Can You Visit Narkanda in March?

Absolutely! Narkanda, a serene hill station in Himachal Pradesh, is one of the most underrated destinations for travelers looking for a peaceful retreat amidst the Himalayas. Located about 60 km from Shimla, it is known for its breathtaking views, adventure activities, apple orchards, and pristine snow-covered landscapes.

March is a transitional month, making it a great time to visit Narkanda if you want to witness the last traces of snow while also experiencing the early signs of springtime beauty. The weather remains cold but bearable, and the town is far less crowded than in peak winter or summer months.

That said, a trip to Narkanda in March requires some preparation, especially regarding road conditions, clothing, and accommodation options. In this detailed guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan a hassle-free trip, including:

How to reach Narkanda
Weather conditions and snowfall in March
Best places to visit and things to do
Where to stay – hotels, resorts, and homestays
Packing tips and safety precautions

If you have any specific questions, feel free to ask in the comments or reach out on Instagram for more travel tips. Now, let’s dive into your Narkanda travel guide for March.

In This Blog

How to Reach Narkanda in March

Reaching Narkanda is quite simple, especially if you’re traveling from major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, or Shimla. However, since snowfall can still occur in early March, you must be prepared for slippery roads and possible delays.

By Road – The Best Way to Reach Narkanda

Narkanda is well connected by NH5, making it easily accessible by road.

From Delhi: 400 km, takes about 8–10 hours by car.
From Chandigarh: 175 km, takes about 5–6 hours by road.
From Shimla: 60 km, takes about 2 hours via NH5.

You can either self-drive or take a private taxi from Chandigarh or Shimla. The road conditions are generally good, but in early March, black ice and snow patches may be present on some stretches. Driving cautiously and carrying snow chains is recommended if you are visiting in the first half of the month.

By Bus – An Affordable Option

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) runs regular buses from Shimla to Narkanda. Buses from Delhi and Chandigarh to Shimla are also frequent, and from there, you can either take a local bus or hire a taxi.

By Air – The Nearest Airports

The nearest airport is Shimla’s Jubbarhatti Airport (85 km away), but flights are limited.
The better alternative is Chandigarh International Airport (180 km away). From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Narkanda.

By Train – A Scenic but Slower Option

The nearest railway station is Shimla Railway Station (60 km away). If you love train journeys, you can take the famous Kalka-Shimla Toy Train, which offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys. From Shimla, you can hire a cab or take a bus to Narkanda.

Pro Tip: If you are driving, make sure to check weather updates, as some roads may become slippery after snowfall.

Suggested Itineraries for Himachal Tour:

Weather in Narkanda in March

March in Narkanda is a mix of lingering winter cold and the first signs of spring.

Temperature in March

Early March: -2°C to 8°C (cold nights, moderate daytime temperatures)
Mid-March: 0°C to 10°C (comfortable weather for outdoor activities)
Late March: 2°C to 12°C (perfect for sightseeing and trekking)

Snowfall in Narkanda in March

Early March: Snow is still present in and around Narkanda, especially at higher altitudes like Hatu Peak.
Mid to Late March: Snow begins to melt, revealing lush green meadows and blooming orchards.

If seeing snow is your priority, plan your visit in the first two weeks of March. If you prefer clear roads and pleasant weather, the latter half of the month is a better choice.

Best Places to Visit in Narkanda in March

Despite being a small hill town, Narkanda offers plenty of scenic spots to explore.

1. Hatu Peak – The Crown Jewel of Narkanda

Located 8 km from Narkanda, Hatu Peak stands at 3,400 meters and offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the Himalayas.

Home to the Hatu Mata Temple, a beautifully designed wooden temple.
A perfect place for trekking, especially in March when the trail is partially covered in snow.
Offers panoramic views of snow-covered peaks and lush green valleys.

2. Tannu Jubbar Lake – A Peaceful Retreat

Located 10 km from Narkanda, Tannu Jubbar Lake is a small yet beautiful lake, surrounded by pine trees and tranquility.

Ideal for picnics, short nature walks, and photography.
Home to the Naag Devta Temple, a revered site for locals.

3. Stokes Farm – Apple Orchards in Bloom

March marks the beginning of the apple blossom season, making Stokes Farm a must-visit for nature lovers.

Walk through Himachal’s famous apple orchards, which start blooming in March.
Learn about traditional apple farming from local farmers.

4. Kotgarh and Thanedar – Offbeat Village Escapes

These scenic villages, 17 km from Narkanda, are famous for their colonial-era charm and fruit orchards.

Experience village life and traditional Himachali culture.
Explore the legacy of Samuel Stokes, the American who introduced apple farming to Himachal Pradesh.

Things to Do in Narkanda in March

1. Snow Trekking and Hiking

March is a great time for trekking, especially in Hatu Peak and Jor Bagh, where the trails offer a mix of snow-covered paths and green meadows.

2. Skiing and Snowboarding (Early March Only)

Narkanda is one of India’s oldest ski destinations. If visiting in early March, you may still find skiing opportunities at higher altitudes.

3. Exploring Local Markets and Trying Himachali Cuisine

Narkanda’s market offers:

Handmade woolen shawls and caps.
Wooden handicrafts and Himachali souvenirs.
Delicious local Himachali dishes like Siddu, Chha Gosht, and Dham.

Where to Stay in Narkanda in March

Luxury Hotels: Tethys Ski Resort, The Wilderness Resort.
Mid-Range Hotels: Hotel Hatu (HPTDC), Echor Narkanda Cottages.
Budget Homestays: Pahadi House Narkanda, Apple Home Stay.

Tip: Book in advance, as accommodations are limited.

Final Thoughts – Is Narkanda Worth Visiting in March?

Absolutely! Narkanda in March is perfect for travelers looking for serene mountain views, adventure activities, and a peaceful getaway. Whether you want to witness the last traces of snow, trek through scenic trails, or relax in a quiet Himachali village, this town has something for everyone.

If you’re planning a trip, feel free to drop your questions in the comments. Safe travels!

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Narkanda in March: Weather, Places, and Everything Else You Need to Plan Your Trip