This is one for lovers of reclusive and exclusive natural retreats, connoisseurs of the eccentric and eclectic with a yen for the good life. Headquarters of an erstwhile princely state, Jubbal's newest claim to fame is its superbly refurbished palace-turned-heritage property.
And this in the midst of a rural outpost hidden from the prying world and Old Man Time in a manner that would do the Grimm Brothers proud. You almost expect to walk in and find a Sleeping Beauty, but it is Snow White's bane that is the fruit of this valley of temples. When your palate wants refreshing after the local dainties, walk into the region's renowned orchards for a bite of the local crop non pareil apples, of course!
For more enterprising adventurers, there's sights and tribes galore to explore in the quiet miles around.
Jubbal is 2 km off the road to Hatkoti. The only way to reach Jubbal from Shimla (92 km) is by road (NH22) via Kufri and Theog, then SH10 to Chhaila, 15 km from the turn off, then to Kotkhai, another 15 km away, then Khara Pathar 17 km away and then another 13 km to Jubbal
En route halts Nirula's at Panipat, Shimla for a late halt.
Rail:
Nearest railhead: Kalka (165 km/ 6 hrs) Best option TO Howrah-DLI-Kalka Mail (dep: Old Delhi 10.50 pm; arr: Kalka 5 am) Taxi to Jubbal costs Rs 2,000 Best option FROM Kalka Mail (dep: Kalka 11.45 pm; arr: Old Delhi 6.25 am).
Via Pinjore, Kalka, Parwanoo, Solan, Shimla, Theog and Kothai.
How to Reach
Road:
A comfortable drive past Shimla towards Theog on NH 22. Leave the highway at Theog and turn right for Jubbal.
Rail:
Take a train from Chandigarh to Kalka (or drive down the 27 km distance). From Kalka board the narrow gauge heritage mountain rail to Shimla. Jubbal is 65 km away.