A mere 12km (7 1/2 miles) from Shimla, the forested village of Mashobra is great for scenic walks but is best visited as an excuse to step into one of India's loveliest hotels, Wildflower Hall, for high tea or lunch. From the village, you can attempt a trek to the area's highest peak -- Shali -- which reaches 3,200m (10,496 ft.), or take the 2km (1 1/4-mile) pedestrian track to the "sacred grove" of Sipur, which is where you'll find the charming, indigenous-style temple dedicated to the local deity, Seep. Because they are considered the personal property of Seep, no trees may be cut here; so superstitious are the locals that they pat themselves down before leaving to ensure no fallen cedar needles have accidentally dropped on them. Beyond Mashobra is the popular picnicking resort of Naldehra (23km/14 miles from Shimla), which has an extraordinary 9-hole golf course designed by Lord Curzon (British viceroy of India, 1899-1905). Golfing on the world's highest course is best arranged through your hotel in Shimla, or you can opt to stay at one of the local "resorts" -- The Châlets Naldehra (tel. 0177/274-7715 or 98-1606-2007; www.chaletsnaldehra.com; Rs 5,000-Rs 10,500/$122-$256/£62-£130) has a pleasing alpine feel, with clean, comfortable, Scandinavian prefab wood cabins. Staff will arrange golf, river rafting, horseback-riding, fishing, and a range of hikes. The hot sulfur springs of Tattapani lie 28km (17 miles) farther away.
