himachal pradesh for tourism

12 Top Himachal Pradesh Tourist Places to Visit

From Pottery to Paragliding, What to Do in Himachal Pradesh

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The mountainous landscape of Himachal Pradesh, at the foothills of the Himalayas , is made up of a series of valleys and snow covered peaks. It's deservedly favored by adventure lovers but also provides a refreshing escape for those who are craving crisp mountain air. Check out these top Himachal Pradesh places to visit. You'll find everything from pottery to paragliding there!

Shimla used to be the summer capital of the British Raj when they ruled India. Now it's the state capital of Himachal Pradesh. The town sprawls along a mountain ridge, enveloped in oak, pine and rhododendron forests. It's quite famous for its colonial-style buildings and historic railway. Some would stay it's overdeveloped and crowded these days. However, it still has charm. The old Christ Church, with its beautiful stained glass windows, is one of Shimla's most prominent landmarks. Another is the Viceregal Lodge on Observatory Hill. These can be seen on a historic walking tour of Shimla. There are plenty of adventure sports and short hikes on offer in the vicinity as well. Sunnymead Bed & Breakfast is an ideal place to stay for those who like serenity and fantastic food. The UNESCO World Heritage Kalka-Shimla Railway toy train is an iconic way of reaching Shimla from near Chandigarh.

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Manali, with its soothing backdrop of the Himalayas, offers a blend of tranquility and adventure that makes it one of northern India's most popular destinations. You can do as little or as much as you want there. Located in the Kullu Valley, it's a magical place bordered by heady pine forest and the raging Beas River, which give it a special energy. The area is divided in to commercial Manali Town, and laid-back Old Manali where travelers congregate in inexpensive village guesthouses . Close to Manali, Solang Valley draws the crowds to experience snow. Plan your trip there with this Manali travel guide .

The Parvati Valley

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As the season wanes in Goa, the psychedelic trance scene shifts more than 8,000 feet above sea level into the forest around Kasol, in the Kullu District's Parvati Valley. Festivals take place at Chalal, near Kasol, from late May until October. To get there, walk 30 minutes from Kasol, crossing the cable suspension bridge over the Parvati River and then following the picturesque riverside path to the village. Two of the biggest events are Parvati Peaking and Magica Festival . However, the Parvati Valley isn't all about parties. Another attraction near Kasol is Manikaran, with its hot springs and enormous riverside Sikh Gurudwara. The region has much to delight nature lovers and trekkers too. Find out more details in our pick of the top places to visit in the Parvati Valley .

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Dalhousie is refreshingly less crowded than Shimla and Manali, and the surrounding Chamba Valley is a lesser-explored area of Himachal Pradesh. If you're after spectacular views, then Dalhousie is the place to find them. Spread over five hills at foot of the Dhauladhar mountain range, the town gets its name from founder Lord Dalhousie. It bares the distinct stamp of the British Raj with 19th-century churches and hotels reminiscent of that era.

Kalatope Wildlife Sanctuary is located a short drive away from Dalhousie. It's possible to walk through the sanctuary but a permit is necessary for a vehicle. Those who dare to venture further into the Chamba Valley will discover fascinating ancient folklore, temples, and tribes.

Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj

Nestled a short distance from each other in the Kangra Valley, the towns of Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj are home to the exiled Tibetan Government. The Dalai Lama resides in Dharamsala, and many Tibetans have followed him there. You can expect to find a strong Tibetan influence in the area, with culture being the main attraction. People flock to Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj to undertake Buddhist meditation and philosophy courses, Tibetan cooking classes, Tibetan language courses, and to receive alternative therapies. Volunteer work is another popular pastime. Those interested in sightseeing will find some fascinating museums, temples, gompas , and monasteries. Tsuglagkhang Complex , the official residence of the Dalai Lama, is a highlight. Our list of the top things to do in McLeod Ganj has more details.

Unfortunately, a growing influx of tourists has disturbed the peace in Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj. Head further uphill to Dharamkot or Naddi if this is a concern.

Palampur, Himachal Pradesh's tea growing region, is about an hour from Dharamsala in the Kangra Valley. Tea was introduced there in the mid 19th century by the Superintendent of Botanical Gardens in Peshawar, Doctor Jameson. You can visit the tea estates and even stay on one. The Lodge at Wah is an eco-friendly boutique homestay on Wah Tea Estate . It has eight rooms in three gorgeous, rustic cottages. Tea plantation and factory tours, and tea tastings are provided to guests.

If you're interested in pottery or art, don't miss quaint Andretta village, a 20 minute drive from Palampur in the Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh. The village is said to have been established in the 1920s by Irish playwright Norah Richards, who lived there during the Partition and is credited with the rise of Punjabi theater. Later, noted potter Gurucharan Singh (who started Delhi Blue Pottery), and painter Sobha Singh (who was known for his Sikh religious paintings), settled there. The Sobha Singh Art Gallery, housed in the building where he lived, showcases his paintings and personal belongings. The mud-plastered cottage belonging to Norah Richards is another attraction.

Andretta Pottery and Craft Society, a pottery production center, offers three month pottery classes for serious students . Alternatively, you can try your hand at the pottery wheel and get a casual lesson. The Society apparently sells its rangoli-patterned earthenware to FabIndia in Delhi.

Andretta can be visited on a day trip from Dharamsala or Palampur. Otherwise, The Mirage is a delightful, arty place to stay there.

Bir-Billing

Go past the turnoff to Andretta from Palampur and you'll reach one of the world's best paragliding destinations at the twin towns of Bir and Billing. The 2015 Paragliding World Cup was held there, for the first time in India, in October 2015. The peak paragliding season runs from March to May and October to November. Billing Valley Adventures and Billing Adventures of Himachal  offer paragliding, trekking, and camping. Other attractions are tea gardens and monasteries. Serene Palpung Sherabling Monastery offers periodic courses in Buddhist meditation and philosophy. Deer Park Institute provides accommodations along with courses on Buddhist and Indian philosophy. Don't miss visiting the groovy 4Tables Project cafe and art gallery in Gunehar village near Bir. They now rent out gorgeous rooms too! Guided walks in the area can be arranged.

Rudyard Kipling described Spiti as a world within a world. This remote, high altitude area of Himachal Pradesh is tucked away against the border of Ladakh and Tibet. It's only been open to foreign tourists since 1991, and still remains relatively unexplored. Part of this is due to Spiti being barren alpine desert that's covered in heavy snow for a high proportion of the year. Getting to Spiti involves a long drive, most popularly from Manali. The constantly evolving scenery is unforgettable and well worth the journey though. Plan your trip with our comprehensive Spiti travel guide and see spectacular photos of the Spiti Valley .

Great Himalayan National Park

The Great Himalayan National Park, in the Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh, became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. The park has four valleys and covers about 900 square kilometers. Its remote, rugged and untamed terrain makes it sought after by trekkers but only the fittest and most adventurous reach deep inside the core area. There are several trekking routes , ranging from three to eight days, with treks between the spectacular Tirthan and Sainj valleys being popular. In addition, less strenuous day walks exist in the park's Ecozone buffer area, frequented by day trippers. It's possible to go on tours to interact with the villagers and learn about their activities.

Ecotourism company Sunshine Himalayan Adventures has partnered with Biodiversity Tourism and Community Advancement (a community-based organization, comprised of local villagers) to offer treks and tours. Permits are required for treks. Indians must pay a park entry fee of 50 rupees per day, and foreigners 200 rupees per day. It's free to enter the Ecozone.

Raju's Cottage , a renowned homestay in Gushaini on the periphery of the park, is an ideal base or stopover. You'll need to book well in advance though!

Jibhi Valley

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Ex-Army man Bhagwan Singh Rana pioneered tourism in the Jibhi Valley , about an hour from the Great Himalayan National Park and three hours south of Manali on the road to Delhi. (Aut and Banjar are the closest towns). However, tourism didn't really take off there until after 2008, when the Himachal Pradesh government launched a homestay scheme. Jibhi is the perfect spot to slow down, adopt a healthy lifestyle, and immerse yourself in nature. Stay at Bhagwan Singh Rana's Doli Guesthouse or Swiss Cottages . Activities include day hikes and treks, organic farming, and meditation.

Himalayan Golden Triangle (Thanedhar, Sangla and Sojha)

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This off-beat circuit, actively promoted by Banjara Camps , attracts outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy nature away from touristy areas. It starts in the heart of Himachal Pradesh's apple country, in Thanedhar (around two hours from Shimla), where you can stay at Banjara Orchard Retreat. The Sangla Valley is located 9,000 feet above sea level in Kinnaur District, close to the Tibetan border, and offers trout fishing and trekking (including glacier trekking in March and April). You can also visit Chitkul village, the last village on the old Indo-Tibetan trade route. Sojha links the Kullu and Shimla districts, and provides more opportunities to venture into the wild mountainous countryside.

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Himachal Pradesh

With spectacular snowy peaks and plunging river valleys, beautiful Himachal is India’s outdoor adventure playground. From trekking and climbing to rafting, paragliding and skiing, if it can be done in the mountains, it can be done here. A convoluted topography of interlocking mountain chains also makes Himachal a spectacular place simply to explore, by bus, car, motorbike, jeep or foot. Every pass crossing into a new valley brings you into a different culture, with its own deities and language. Villages perched on staggering slopes enchant with fairy-tale architecture and residents' easygoing warmth. Hill stations appeal with a holiday atmosphere, while backpacker magnets lure with chilled-out vibes and mountain beauty. In the Dalai Lama's home-away-from-home, McLeod Ganj, or in remote Lahaul and Spiti with their centuries-old Buddhist cultures, you might wonder whether you've inadvertently stumbled into Tibet.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Founded in AD 996, and retaining five sub-temples dating back over 900 years, Tabo Gompa is reckoned to be the oldest continuously functioning Buddhist…

This gloriously calm glacial lake presents mirror-perfect reflections of the surrounding white-top peaks and geological colour-swirls. At 4270m, the 20…

Tsuglagkhang Complex

Mcleod Ganj

McLeod's main focus for visiting pilgrims, monks and most tourists is the Tsuglagkhang complex, a custard-coloured concrete monastic village that's home…

Dhankar Gompa

Like a series of whitewashed limpets, the 1200-year-old Dhankar Gompa clings precariously to an eroded cliff-edge rock pinnacle, high above the beautiful…

Forming the watershed between Lahaul and Spiti, this 4551m pass, accessed by multiple switchbacks, is topped by a grassy area where stupas are strewn with…

Chehni Kothi

Unspoilt Chehni village is one of the most magical villages imaginable. Surveying a wide sweep of valley and ridgetops from 2110m, its antique core…

Bhimakali Temple

What makes Sarahan so instantly distinctive are the 'twin towers' of its fabulous Bhimakali Temple, best photographed from behind with a backdrop of…

Norbulingka Institute

Soothingly set amid bamboo, trees and flowing water, the delightful Norbulingka Institute, 6km southeast of Dharamsala, was established in 1988 to teach…

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• Explore The Himalayas: 48 Best Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh

23 Mar 2023

Himachal Pradesh is synonymous with scenic beauty, serene landscapes, and adventure sports. Literally, Himachal means “the land of snow”. Situated in the western Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh has several hill stations which are the most appropriate destination to find respite from the scorching summer heat. Now known as a destination for “all seasons and all reasons” , with so many incredible places to visit, here’s a list of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh on your trip to the land of the Himalayas.

48 Best Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh

Scroll down and find the best Himachal Pradesh destinations that should definitely be on your travel list this year. And while these best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh are perfect for visiting throughout the year, here’s the best time to visit them to witness them in all their glory. Take a look!

• Kullu-Manali – Country’s Famous Hill Station
• Shimla – The Capital Of Himachal Pradesh
• Dharamshala – The Residence Of Dalai Lama
• Kasauli – The Gateway To Himachal
• Bir Billing – An Adventure-Seeker’s Paradise
• Malana – To Get Your Spirits High!
• Dalhousie – Mini Switzerland Of India
• Spiti + Tabo + Kaza – Offbeat Destinations For Avid Travelers
• Kasol – Trek To Your Heart’s Delight
• Khajjiar – A Perfect Family Getaway Awaits
• Mashobra – A Well-kept Secret
• Palampur – Dotted With Tea Gardens
• Kinnaur – Apples And Colorful Ethnicity
• Kufri – The Snowy Retreat
• Chail – The Untouched Gem
• McLeod Ganj – Little Lhasa
• Chitkul – Last Village Of India
• Solang Valley – For Adventure Lovers
• Shoghi – Impeccable Beauty
• Tirthan Valley – Adventurous Expedition
• Narkanda – Vacay Amidst Nature
• Barot – Unexplored Landscapes
• Chamba – Pristine Beauty
• Mandi – Varanasi Of Hills
• Nahan – Lofty Shivalik Range
• Kangra – Mystic Town
• Bhuntar – National Parks And Religious Sites
• Bilaspur (HP) – India’s First Planned Hill Station
• Kalpa –  Beautiful Monasteries
• Tattapani – Hot Sulphur Spring
• Shoja – Pure Hidden Gem
• Manikaran Sahib – Hot Springs Of Himachal
• Solan – Mushroom Capital Of India
• Sangla – Most Charming Valleys
• Nalagarh – Known For Its Serenity
• Parwanoo – Captivating Ambience Of Hill Station
• Naggar – Mesmerizing Landscapes
• Arki – Serene Town In Solan
• Sarchu – Camping Redefined
• Rumsu – Scenic And Surreal
• Paonta Sahib – Religiously Rich
• Keylong – Spiritual Vibes
• Losar – The Tibetan Vibe
• Lahaul Valley – Surreal And Magical
• Jibhi – An Offbeat Place
• Theog – A quiet escape
• Tosh – Unparalleled Natural Beauty
• Sarahan – A Beautiful Hamlet

1. Kullu-Manali – Country’s Famous Hill Station

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One of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh is Kullu and Manali. If you are on a lookout for fresh air and green mountains amidst the snow-covered ranges, then Kullu Manali indeed should be on the top of your list. There are numerous awesome places to visit in Manali that makes your vacation a perfect one!

Ideal for: Everyone! But it is a hot favorite amongst newlyweds. Ideal duration: 4-5 days Best time to visit: May-July and November-January for snowfall. How to reach: Chandigarh is the nearest airport, 252 Kms away. The nearest railhead is also in Chandigarh, 270 Kms away. Kullu is 570 Kms from Delhi via road. Things to do:

• Indulge in adventure sports at Solang Valley
• Visit Manali Bird Sanctuary
• Go trekking, camping, angling & river rafting in Kullu
• Visit the Old temples

Nearby famous places: Solang, Rohtang, Manikaran, Malana, Khirganga Places To Stay:  Hotel Amit, Summer hills Malana, Hotel Trans Shiva, Hotel Ashivan Basera, Royal Mansion

Must Read: Swoosh, Splash and Swing: 10 Things To Do In Manali In Summer

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2. Shimla – The Capital Of Himachal Pradesh

One of the most famous hill stations of Northern India – Shimla, which is the right mix of Indian glory with British sophistication, has a consecrated stunning landscape and fresh climate all through the year. Without a doubt, it is one of the best tourist places in Himachal Pradesh. 

Ideal for: Family and friends Ideal Duration: 3-4days Best time to visit: May –July and November-January for snowfall. How to reach: Kalka, in turn, is the nearest railhead, hill which is connected to Chandigarh and Delhi by regular trains. Chandigarh is at a distance of 117 kilometers, Manali at 260 kilometers and Delhi at 343 kilometers. Things to do:

• Full fill your shopping desire at the Mall Road
• Enjoy a trek to Jakhu Hill and a visit to Lord Hanuman’s Temple
• Visit to the Viceregal Lodge to appreciate the British elegance
• Try your hands on Polo at Annandale which is 4km from the Ridge

Nearby famous places: Tattapani, Solan, Mashobra Places To Stay:  Annadel View, Kavya Homestay, Agro Stone Cottage, Wildflower Hall, Radisson Hotel

3. Dharamshala – The Residence Of Dalai Lama

Dharamshala definitely has to be on your list of best Himachal Pradesh destinations . Famous not only because of its climate but also you get to see how multicultural Indian community lives in harmony with the Indo Tibetan community.

Ideal for: Friends or Solo Travelers Ideal duration: 2-3days Best time to visit: May –July and November-January for snowfall How to reach: The nearest major railway station is at Pathankot, 85 kilometers away. Dharamshala is well-connected to Delhi The journey is almost 520 kilometers from Delhi. The drive from Delhi via Chandigarh is about 12 hours. Things to do:

• Enjoy a boat ride across the Dal Lake and witness the royal the Kangra Fort.
• Pay homage to the Bhagsunath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and simultaneously enjoy the cascading Bhagsu falls.
• Visit various monasteries, the Kangra Art Museum, the Dalai Lama Temple Complex and see the magnificent tea plantation on the foothills of Kangra valley.

Nearby famous places: Khajjiar, Bir Billing, Palampur Places To Stay:  Green Hotel, Bob’s n Barley, The Unmad, Hotel Pine Spring, Bella Heights Inn

Suggested Read: Top 20 Places To Visit In Manali In December To Take A Break In The Arms Of Nature

4. Kasauli – The Gateway To Himachal

Kasauli is a perfect getaway from the hustle bustle of the city and is one of the most serene places to visit in Himachal in June . Almost on the outskirts of Punjab and Haryana, it is well connected by roadways.

Ideal for: Friend and Family Ideal duration: 3-4 days Best time to go visit: November – March & December – January for snowfall. How to reach: The nearest airport is in Chandigarh, 70 km away. The nearest train station is Sonwara which is 4km away. It is 293 km from New Delhi and takes about 7 hours. Things to do:

• Visit to the Anglican Church which was built during the British era.
• Enjoy a great stroll or a trek on the lower mall which leads to the Monkey point which is in the shape of a Lord Hanuman’s foot.
• A must watch is the sunrise and the sunset point where you can witness the most beautiful sky.
• If you are fond of walking and exploring the nature then do take the Gilbert Trail

Nearby famous places: Parwanoo, Solan Places To Stay:  Pine Villa, Ramada, Hotel Whispering Winds, The Fern Surya Resort, Birds View Resort

5. Bir Billing – An Adventure-Seeker’s Paradise

If you’re an adventure seeker, Bir Billing is the mecca for adventure sports and it has to be on your list of the top Himachal Pradesh tourist places . Bir is a small village which is located on the western side of Himachal Pradesh and is blessed with some refreshing climate.

Ideal for: Backpackers and adventure seekers Ideal duration: 2-3 days Best time to visit: May-July How to reach: The closest airport to Bir is Dharamshala airport (in Gaggal) about 30-45 minutes south of Dharamshala. Train to Pathankot + bus/taxi onward to Bir. And then a taxi from Pathankot to Bir: 4-5 hours Bir is about 12-14 hours from Delhi by bus. Take a bus to either Baijnath or Bir Road. Things to do:

• Experience some adrenaline rush as you paraglide in the beautiful Himalayan valleys and camp amazing weather and safe surroundings.
• Visit the gorgeous Buddhism monasteries in Bhattu, Choggan and Chauntra Bhattu colony located in center of the forest.
• Just around 10 kms from Bir Billing is the beautifully carved 13th-century Vaidyanath devoted to Lord Shiva.
• Visit the Palampur Tea Cooperative where you can attend a free tour to see the tea making process.

Nearby famous place: Dharamshala Places To Stay:  CBB – Camp Bir Billing, Connect, The Hosteller Bir, Shivirama, Katoch Homestay

Suggested Read: 9 Things To Do In Chail For A Thrilling Mountain Escape

6. Malana – To Get Your Spirits High!

Looking for a digital detox, then Malana is the place you must visit in Himachal Pradesh in August. Situated near the Kullu Valley, Malana provides spellbinding views of the Deo Tiba and Chandrakhani crests. It is indeed one of the best tourist places in Himachal Pradesh .

Ideal for: Trekkers, Solo Travelers and anyone who wants to disconnect from the world Ideal Duration: 3-4 Days Best time to visit: The best time to go is early May to August How to reach: The nearest airport is Kullu. By road, Malana is 378 km away from Delhi and takes roughly 10hrs. The closest railhead is Shimla and then take a cab. Things to do:

• Enjoy some stimulating weather in this gorgeous village which is also called the little Greece of India.
• Panoramic scenes of the snow-clad Himalayas from Chanderkhani pass and capture the mesmerizing beauty of Kheer Ganga valley.
• Trek through spectacular forests and across Alpine pastures with tremendous views.
• Visit the pilgrim center Manikaran which has a hot water spring.
• Be a part of regional festivals in Malana village, with its idiosyncratic culture and customs.

Nearby famous places: Kasol, Manikaran, Tosh Places To Stay:  AYOYA Malana – Shiva Cafe, Black Diamond, Waterfall view cafe and cAmps, Summer Hills Camping, Nomads Hostel

7. Dalhousie – Mini Switzerland Of India

Dalhousie is yet another hill station in Himachal Pradesh which is ideal for de-stressing in the serene, tranquil troposphere. Away from the hustle-bustle of the city life, sit back and enjoy the nature in Dalhousie, one of the top Himachal Pradesh tourist places . Don’t forget to explore the gorgeous places to visit in Dalhousie to get the best experiences of this place.

Ideal for: Honeymooners Ideal duration: 2-3days Best time to visit: April to July How to reach: The closest airport is Dharamsala which is 5 hours away. The closest railhead is Pathankot’s Chakki Bank (71 km from Dalhousie) and then take a cab which takes around 10 hours. Things to do:

• Experience the beauty of nature in the valley of Khajjiar which is also known as the Switzerland of India
• Enjoy a gentle walk or a trek in the beautiful terrain in Dainkund Walk, Ganji Pahadi Walk and Bakrota Walk.
• Visit the St. John’s Church, oldest church of the town. It is one of the best historical places in Himachal Pradesh.  Relish the cascading waterfalls near Delhi – namely the Chamera falls and the Satdhara falls

Nearby famous places: Dharamshala, Khajjiar, Kalatop Places To Stay:  Aamod Resorts, Shvetanjali, Himalayan camping, DeepForest camps, Smart Hill Kalatop

Suggested Read: Travel Tips For Himachal Pradesh: 11 Things You Need To Know Before Visiting This Paradise

8. Spiti + Tabo + Kaza – Offbeat Destinations For Avid Travelers

Spiti Valley is one of the most attractive hidden gems of North India. Straddling the river Spiti, it is home to numerous of the most divine of Buddhist destinations as well as some of the most widespread tourist destinations. It is one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh.

Ideal for: friends and family Ideal duration: 2-3 days Best time to visit: May-July How to reach: Kullu Airport at Kullu is the nearest airport. Shimla is the nearest railway station from Kaza. Roadways from Delhi to Shimla and then take a cab. Things to do:

• Spectate the Chunpa fue or walk to ancient traditional meditation centre at Lari Dupuk.
• Visit the Millennium Monastery, Gue mummy or Dhankar monastery and rock carving at Tabo.
• Hike to Angla and Phela – nomadic plains on the hills north of Tabo
• Go for a traditional phootoshot at Nadang Lhakhang and attend the cultural show (cham dance), with local food and tea.
• Walk to famous rangrik rewa cave, visit the Snow point Kunzom and if lucky enjoy the Snow Leopard / Ibex sighting and river rafting.

Nearby famous places: Kibber, Pin Valley National Park Places To Stay:  Spiti Sojourn, Tethys Himalayan DEN – Chicham, Spiti Village Resort, Hotel Deyzor, Komik House

9. Kasol – Trek To Your Heart’s Delight

Known as the little Israel of India in Himachal Pradesh, based in the Parvati Valley is this beautiful hill station called Kasol. It’s just on the way to the holy town of Manikaran and is the best hill station in Himachal .

Ideal for: Backpackers and trekkers Ideal duration: 3 Days Best time to visit: May and June How to reach: The nearest airport is Kullu which takes about 3 hours. The nearest railhead is Shimla. Take a bus from Delhi to Shimla and then take a cab which is roughly 381 km Things to do:

• Ideal for hiking in the jungle – follow the trails along the Parvati river
• Trek to Kheerganga is mesmerizing where you can experience the hot water spring.
• Parvati valley is an ideal trail for trekking also known as the ‘Stoner’s Paradise’.

Nearby famous places: Malana, Manikaran, Tosh, Khirganga Places To Stay:  The Rainbow Inn & Cafe, The Hosteller Kasol, Nomads Hostel, Gypsy hideouT, The Flipsyde Cafe

Suggested Read: A First-Timer’s Guide To Kasol: Things To Explore, Eat, And Experience

10. Khajjiar – A Perfect Family Getaway Awaits

Located in the Chamba district, this gorgeous valley is one of the best Himachal tourist places . Its indeed a great place to relax and unwind in the beautiful and refreshing environment.

Ideal for: Friends and family Ideal Duration: 3 Days Best time to visit: May to June How to reach: The nearest airport is Dharamshala and then a taxi 122 km. There is an overnight train from New Delhi to Pathankot and then take a taxi for 110 km. Regular bus service from New Delhi to Shimla is also available. Things to do:

• Visit the Khajjiar Lake and Ground via the Bakrota Hills from Dalhousie
• Pay tribute to the Khajji Nag Temple which is one of the most ancient temples
• Enjoy the serenity of local villages known for its apple orchards
• Relish the mercerizing views of Mount Kailash which is believed to be the home to Lord Shiva

Nearby famous places: Chamba, Kalatop, Dalhousie Places To Stay:  Mystic Village, Cozy Swiss Meadows, Kailash Island View, Pir Panjal, Hotel Country Resort

11. Mashobra – A Well-kept Secret

Image Credit: Supreet for Wikipedia

Located just 13 km away from Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, Mashobra is a well-kept secret for someone who’s done with tourist places in Himachal Pradesh. Though the distance is not much, this is a new world in itself, sprinkled with deodar trees through and through. Get going in the jungles during the day, try out various adventure activities like zip lining and spend the night under the stars camping; do whatever you please in this paradise and prove why it is among the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in summer !

Ideal for: Friend, solo Ideal duration: 1 night 2 days Best time to visit: May to June How to reach: Deboard the bus in Shimla and take another bus/cab heading towards Mashobra. The nearest railway station in Shimla (Toy train) and the nearest airport is Shimla Airport in Jubbarhatti. Things to do:

• Indulge in adventure activities like zip lining and rappelling
• Explore the jungles as you trek through at your own pace
• Dodge the currents while river rafting in Mashobra
• Spend an evening birdwatching
• Camp the night away, with bonfire, friends and your favorite music

Nearby famous places: Shimla, Solan, Kufri, Tattapani Places To Stay:  Green Chaklu, Club Mahindra Mashobra, Shanti Jungle Cottage, Mashobra Greens, Shanti jungle cottages

Suggested Read: 53 Best Places To Visit In Shimla To Relax And Unwind

12. Palampur – Dotted With Tea Gardens

Listed among rather offbeat places of Himachal, Palampur is famed for its tea gardens and zoo. This is an ideal place to visit with family, as children and parents will find many attractions equally interesting. The scenic splendor will have you bewitched and thanks to easy accessibility and number of accommodation options, it is a perfect weekend getaway from Delhi.

Ideal for: Family Ideal duration: 1 night 2 days Best time to visit: Anytime How to reach: Palampur is best visited via bus/road. The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport, Dharamsala (37 km) and the nearest railway station is Pathankot Railway Station (112 km) Things to do:

• Go for a slow-paced trek, while also visiting the local villages in the area
• Get face to face with wild animals in local zoo
• Spend an evening boat riding
• Visit the tea gardens and savor the best taste while you’re at it

Nearby famous places: Dharamshala Places To Stay:  The Solitude Camp, RS Sarovar Portico, WelcomHeritage Taragarh Palace, POPS Hotel and Restaurant, Dhauladhar Inclave

13. Kinnaur – Apples And Colorful Ethnicity

Known for its apples, Kinnaur is often called the Land of Gods and is among the most offbeat Himachal tourist places in summer . The paradise is 235 km away from Shimla, in the northeast ends of Himachal Pradesh. Bestowed with a vibrant cultural scenario, Kinnaur’s landscape is bejeweled with gigantic snow-clad mountains. Currently, it is not under tourists radar, so if you want to go off the beaten road, Kinnaur it is!

Ideal for: Family, solo Ideal duration: 1 night 2 days Best time to visit: June to September How to reach: Kinnaur is best visited via bus/road. The nearest airport is Shimla Airport (277 km) and the nearest railway station is Shimla Toy Train Station (259 km) Things to do:

• Go on a heritage trail, exploring Kamru Fort, Nako Gompa and hamlets
• Spend some serene time beside Nako Lake
• Savor Tibetan delicacies at Tibetan Cafetaria

Nearby famous places: Shimla Places To Stay:  ZostelX Raksham, Eskape Camps, Osiya Shambhu Lodge, Kinner Retreat, Techno Homestay

Suggested Read: Top 12 Resorts In Himachal For A Truly Spoiling Holiday

14. Kufri – The Snowy Retreat

Every snow lover’s favourite destination in the hills of Himachal, Kufri lies in close proximity to Shimla. Owing to its higher altitude, it’s laden with snow throughout the winter, which also makes it a dreamy attraction for couples and honeymooners. One of the top places to see in Himachal  Pradesh with your better half, Kufri is an excellent spot to explore near Shimla if you’re done with the latter. Though there aren’t a lot of tourist attractions in Kufri, the panoramic snowy views, the serene temples, and the trekking opportunities will make your getaway worthwhile.

Ideal for: Couples, skiing enthusiasts, hikers Ideal duration: 1 night 2 days Best time to visit: November to March How to reach: Kufri is best visited via bus/road and it is just 10 km away from Shimla. The nearest airport is Shimla Airport (34.4 km) followed by Chandigarh Airport (138 km). The nearest railway station is Shimla Railway Station (16.2 km) Things to do:

• Nature trekking and hiking tours
• Skiing in the winters
• Visiting the Nag Temple

Nearby famous places: Shimla Places To Stay:  Exotic Kufri, Toshali Royal View, Kufri Holiday Resort, Kufri Heights, Kings Hills Cottages

15. Chail – The Untouched Gem

A relatively quiet and pristine paradise lying close to Shimla, Chail is known mainly for the world’s highest cricket ground and Chail Palace, the gorgeous heritage hotel nestled amidst pine and deodar trees.

It is located at a higher altitude than most of the popular hill stations surrounding it, which is why it offers unparalleled views of lush greenery all around. The Instagram-worthy views of pine forests, mist-covered hills, and verdant valleys are what attract nature lovers and photography enthusiasts to this place. It’s also a hiker’s paradise owing to the unexplored bounty of nature surrounding it. It’s among the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in summer if you need a calm and relaxing vacation far away from the polluted and noisy metros.

Ideal for: Hikers, family, solo Ideal duration: 2 nights 3 days Best time to visit: Throughout the year How to reach: Chail is best visited via bus/road. The nearest airport is Shimla Airport (62 km) followed by Chandigarh Airport (117 km). The nearest railway station is Shimla Railway Station (53.5 km) Things to do:

• Spot Himalayan wildlife at the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary
• Visit the world’s highest cricket ground
• Go hiking in the pristine pine and deodar jungles

Nearby famous places: Shimla, Kufri Places To Stay:  LivingStone, Jungle Stays, Royal Swiss Cottage, Hotel Chail Residency, Mountain View Resort

Suggested Read: A Fun-Filled 4 Days Solo Female Trip To Himachal

16. McLeod Ganj – Little Lhasa

McLeod Ganj is a tiny town in Himachal Pradesh close to Dharamshala. It is also called the ‘Little Lhasa’ due to the number of Tibetans settled here. It is a perfect blend of India and Tibet and one can see this walking down the colorful lanes of this little town and is among the best places to see in Himachal Pradesh . Mcleod is a perfect destination for solo travelers and families alike due to the ambiance the city has. Being one of the cheapest places in Himachal Pradesh, one can enjoy amazing food at the beautiful cafes in the market at Mcleodganj and have some of the best meals with a view there.

Ideal for: Family, friends, and solo Ideal duration: 2-3 days Best time to visit: October – June How to reach: Pathankot Railway Station is the nearest railway station which is 90 km away. One can also travel via road in a private car or buses which will drop you at Mcleod Ganj bus stand. Things to do:

• City sightseeing or tour around the city
• Shop at the local markets for jewelry and woolens
• Enjoy meals with mountain vistas

Nearby famous places: Dharamshala, Dharamkot, Bir Billing Places To Stay:  Shalom Backpackers McLeodganj, Hotel Norbu House, La Vaca India McLeodganj, Hotel King Castle, Hotel Shiva Sanctuary

17. Chitkul – Last Village Of India

In the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh lies this quaint hamlet of Chitkul. The village isn’t too common amidst travelers yet, and so one can enjoy the scenic beauty in calm and peaceful environs. Close to the Indo-China border, it is the last inhabited village. This serene village is mostly covered in snow during the winters, so the best time to visit it is during the summers. It is one of the best unexplored places in Himachal Pradesh .

Ideal for: Friends, solo Ideal duration: 1-2 days Best time to visit: March – April and September – October How to reach: Roadways buses can be taken to reach Chitkul. The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (224 km) and the nearest railway station is Shimla Toy Train Station (247 km) Things to do:

• Visit the Mathi Temple
• Hike to the Charang Chitkul Pass
• Sit by the Baspa River

Nearby famous places: Sangla, Solang Valley Places To Stay:  Adobe The Cloud, Vanshika Home Stay, The Wanderers Nest, TBT Stays, The ALAR Camps & Cafe

Suggested Read: 30 Best Hill Stations In Himachal To Experience Pure Bliss

18. Solang Valley – For Adventure Lovers

When traveling to Manali on vacation, Solang Valley is one of the most important Himachal Pradesh tourist places . The Solang Valley, located 14 kilometers northwest of Manali, is one of the most popular tourist destinations here. The valley is located on the road between Manali and Rohtang and attracts many tourists every year. The Solang Valley is a popular destination for adventure lovers who love skydiving, paragliding, horseback riding or mini-jeeps especially designed for tourists of all ages. During the winter months, the Solang Valley is covered in snow. Skiing is a popular sport here, with training institutes and trainers in the valley looking after skiers and beginners.

Ideal for: Adventure enthusiasts Ideal duration: 3 – 4 hours Best time to visit: December to January How to reach: Take NH21 or a bus from the neighbouring states. The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (63 km) and the nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar railway station (175 km) Things to do:

• Paragliding

Nearby famous places: Manali, Rohtang Places To Stay:  Solang Valley Resort, Apple Country Resorts, Cafe Chalte Chalte Home, The Stony Hills – Exclusive Mountain Homes

19. Shoghi – Impeccable Beauty

While Shimla is flooded with tourists every year, the serenity and personalized beauty of Shoghi is rarely discovered. Shoghi, a small mountain town stationed only 13 km from Shimla, is full of picturesque landscapes and has a great variety of flora and fauna, making it one of the best places to visit in winter . This small town offers beautiful ancient temples for activities full of adrenaline along with famous fruits. Incredible climate all year round, perfect accommodation and ideal environment makes it one of the best places in Himachal Pradesh to explore.

Ideal for: Nature lovers Ideal duration: 1-2 days Best time to visit: October to June How to reach: Take an interstate or local bus. Nearest airport is in Chandigarh and the nearest railway station is Chandigarh Junction railway station Things to do:

• Visit the temples

Nearby famous places: Shimla, Narkand, Chail Places To Stay:  Larisa Resort Shimla, Radisson Hotel, Snow Valley Resorts, Annadel Veiw, Springfield’s Hotel

Suggested Read: 18 Secret Places In Himachal Tourists Haven’t Discovered Yet

20. Tirthan Valley – Adventurous Expedition

The Tirthan Valley is a destination full of delights. Located 3 km from the Himalayan National Park, this place is full of adventure activities – all the while being a nature lover’s paradise. This valley, which includes the larger Himalayas, with its snow-capped peaks and views of the Tirthan River, is best known for its fishing and the surprising influx of foreigners. The Tirthan Valley offers a magical environment and green paths that lead to small, picturesque villages nearby, accompanied by a fantastic location all year round. It is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh .

Ideal for: nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts Ideal duration: 3-5 days Best time to visit: March to June, October to November How to reach: By state buses. The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (48 km) and the nearest railway station are Ambala and Kiratpur Things to do:

• Visit Great Himalayan National Park

Nearby famous places: Khajjiar, Kasol, Spiti Places To Stay:  Offbeat Abodes – Tirthan Valley, The Blue Sheep Tirthan, Hotel Veer, Heritage Valley Homestay, Log Huts Bahu

21. Narkanda – Vacay Amidst Nature

Image Credit: Gv3101992 for Wikimedia Commons

The town, located 2700 meters above sea level, attracts tourists due to its natural beauty and magnificent apple orchards. Surrounded by alpine forests and towering hills, this is one of the famous places in Himachal Pradesh . It has a lake, Tannu Jabar – one of the main tourist attractions in the region. There is also a temple near the lake, which is a must for all who come here. Narkanda also offers several trekking routes for the more adventurous crowd. The Hatu Nag is all but a challenge that you can climb. In winter you can also go skiing.

Ideal for: nature lovers Ideal duration: 1 day Best time to visit: Throughout the year How to reach: State buses. The nearest airport is Chandigarh Airport (188 km) and the nearest railway station is Kalka Station Things to do:

• Rock climbing

Nearby famous places: Manali, Mcleodganj, Kasauli Places To Stay:  Echor- Narkanda Cottages, Sara Hotel, The Apple Home, Wild Himalaya Glamping Camp, Narkanda Kudret Camp

Suggested Read: Himachal Pradesh In April: An Escape For Our Family To Unveil The Wonders Of The Hills

22. Barot – Unexplored Landscapes

Image Credit: Sanjay Lakhanpal for Wikimedia Commons

Very few people know of Barot and the unexplored landscapes scattered here. For those looking for pristine destinations, this is the perfect place to be in the heart of beautiful Himachal Pradesh. Barot was popped up on the radar when, around 1920, the hydropower project Shanan was proposed in India. It was mainly proposed to utilize the hydropower potential of the Uhl between Barot and Joginderagar. Since then, it has become the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh , but only a few people know about it.

Ideal for: those looking for offbeat destinations. Ideal duration: 1-2 days Best time to visit: April – June; November – February, How to reach: It is 66 kilometers from Mandi. You can take a bus. The nearest airport is Kullu Airport while the nearest railway station is Jogindernagar Railway Station Things to do:

• Recreational Trekking

Nearby famous places: Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary, Rewalsar Lake Places To Stay:  Barot Camps, Karyashaala by ELivingProject, Bir camps, Shweta Guest House, AMY Yoga House

23. Chamba – Pristine Beauty

Chamba is a small Himalayan town that is known for its pristine beauty and solitude amidst the Himalayas. The town is famous for its temples and the caves that are also a major tourist attraction of this town and is known to be one of the best tourist places in Himachal Pradesh . Chamba offers splendid views of the Pir Panjal range, Zanskar and Dhauladhar range in the backdrop. 

Ideal for : Solo travelers & family Ideal duration : 1-2 days Best time to visit : October to June How to reach : The nearest airport is Jammu. The nearest railway station is at Pathankot, about 120 km from Chamba. Buses and Cabs are very easily available from Pathankot to Chamba. Alternatively, you can take the train till Chandigarh or till New Delhi and then take a bus or a cab. Things to do : Visit Bhuri Singh Museum, Champavati Temple, Sui Mata Temple Nearby famous places : Dalhousie, Khajjiar Places To Stay:  H2O House, Krish Homestay, Himalayan canvas, Rafi’s House , Shan-e-chamba

Suggested Read: 15 Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh In December

24. Mandi – Varanasi Of Hills

Image Credit: Kartik mj for Wikimedia Commons

Located at the junction of Kullu and Dharamshala, this place is covered with a thick canopy of pine and deodar trees and is often considered as Varanasi of Hills or Choti Kashi because of myriad temples it has spread across. With over 81 temples, the town is a picturesque spot lying on the banks of the River Beas.

Ideal for: Solo travelers and family Ideal duration : 1-2 days Best time to visit : April to October How to reach: The nearest airport is in Bhuntar and the nearest railway station is in Pathankot. A taxi can be boarded from outside the airport and railway station to reach Mandi. Things to do: Prashar Lake, Pandoh Dam, Rewalsar lake, Jalori Pass Nearby famous places : Dharamshala, Kullu, Manali Places To Stay:  Hotel Valley View, Rj Haveli, Aieyou Home Stay, Prashar Camps Flysports, Hotel Shiva Family Ac Restaurant 

25. Nahan – Lofty Shivalik Range

Nahan is a picturesque town that is a hidden gem of Himachal nestled in the lofty Shivalik range, overlooking lush green fields. Find your perfect escape in this quaint town that is one of the best unexplored places in Himachal Pradesh.  

Ideal for : Solo travelers and friends Ideal duration : 1-2 days Best time to visit : April to September How to reach : Nahan at just about 250 kms is one of the nearest hill stations from Delhi. Barara which is 60 km from Nahan is the nearest railway station from Nahan and one can reach Nahan from Delhi in about 5 hours by train. Chandigarh is the nearest airport from Nahan. Things to do : Rani Tal Lake, Jaitak Fort Nearby famous places : Shimla Places To Stay:  PleasantVille, Hotel Heritage Sanyam, Hotel HV, Sonaman Retreat, Writers Hill

Suggested Read: Himachal Pradesh In May: 16 Places To Escape The Busy Life In Summer

26. Kangra – Mystic Town

Known as the land of Gods, this mystic town is an ideal spot for travelers looking for peace and solitude, away from the maddening crowds. The town is enveloped with tea plantations, and the holy temples spread across the area. 

Ideal for : Solo travelers and friends Ideal duration: 1-2 days Best time to visit : September to June How to reach : The nearest railway station to Kangra is Pathankot railway station which lies 87 km away from Kangra. From Pathankot the best way to reach Kangra is by hiring a taxi. Things to do : Kangra fort, Bajreshwari Mata Temple, Achar Kund, Jwala Devi Temple Nearby famous places : Dharamshala, McLeodganj Places To Stay:  Him Trail Adventures Camp, GARG RESIDENCY, Hotel Sai Villa, Camp Jungle Junction, Soham

27. Bhuntar – National Parks And Religious Sites

Bhuntar is the ideal town if you want to escape the maddening tourist crowds. It is usually a getaway spot from Kullu, Manali and Kasol. People who prefer the lesser known and quaint spots with absolute peace and solitude often come down here to seek some respite. It is encapsulated with lush greenery, national parks and religious sites.

Ideal for : Solo travelers and friends Ideal duration : 1 day Best time to visit: May – October How to reach: The nearest railway station for any major city/town in Himachal Pradesh is the Pathankot, about 144 km away from Bhuntar. All the main trains pass through Pathankot including Jammu Tawi and Himsagar Express from Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, etc. Things to do : The Great Himalayan National Park, Bijli Mahadev Temple, Dechen Choekhor Buddhist Monastery Nearby famous places : Dharamshala, McLeodganj Places To Stay: Sea Rock Hotel, The Tara Villa Hotel

Suggested Read: 12 Best Places To Visit In Himachal In January For A Blissful Retreat

28. Bilaspur (HP) – India’s First Planned Hill Station

Image Credit: Pragya Varma for Wikimedia Commons

A hill town near Shimla, it is famous for its forts, and Gobind Sagar Lake. Bilaspur is India’s first planned hill station which is famous for its artificially made lake – Gobind Sagar Lake on Sutlej River. It is one of the best places to travel in Himachal for breathtaking views.

Ideal for : Family and friends Ideal duration : 1 day Best time to visit: May – October How to reach :  The nearest major railway station connected to the major cities of the country is in Kiratpur Sahib which is 65 km away from Bilaspur. You can take a taxi from there to this city. Things to do : Kanan Pendari Zoological Garden, A.S Fun Water Park, Wonder World Theme Park Nearby famous places : Shimla Places To Stay:  Hotel Bilaspur Sagar View, Dholra Resort, Annie Hotel and Restaurant, Swastik Hotel And Restaurant

29. Kalpa – Beautiful Monasteries

The main village of Kinnaur, it is known for its pristine beauty and sacred temples and beautiful monasteries. This town is also famous for apple orchards and lush green flora and fauna. The town is surrounded by majestic Kinnaur-Kailash range peeking from across the Sutlej River for a blissful weekend getaway.

Ideal for : Family and friends Ideal duration : 1-2 days Best time to visit : March to September How to reach : Nearest railway station to the village is again Shimla (244 km). It is one of the major stations connecting to several major cities including Delhi. Hire a taxi or take a bus from here for Kalpa. Things to do : Kalpa Reckong Peo, Kinnaur Kailash, Kamru Fort, Jorkanden Nearby famous places : Shimla Places To Stay:  Hotel Rollingrang, Hotel Kalpa Deshang, Echor – The Alpine Crest, Chauhan Home Stay, Dormico’s Hotel Mount View

Suggested Read: 8 Things To Do In Manikaran That You Didn’t Even Know About

30. Tattapani – Hot Sulphur Spring

Image Credit: Gopal Venkatesan for Wikipedia

A quaint village located 60 km away from Shimla, this hidden paradise is famous for hot sulphur spring and a Shiva’s cave. Shiva caves are popular amongst the locals and tourists alike that gained spotlight because of famous tales of miracles.

Ideal for : Family and friends Ideal duration : 1 day Best time to visit : October to June How to reach : The nearest railway station from Tattapani in Shimla which is 51 km away. The broad-gauge railway stations nearest to Tattapani are in Chandigarh (136 km) and Ambala (178 km). The nearest airbase is in Jubbarhatti-Shimla located 68 km away. Things to do: Hot water spring, camping, river rafting, Siva cave, trekking Nearby famous places : Shimla Places To Stay:  Hotel De Crown, Trimurti Pine Valley Resort, Geeta Cottage Homestay, Vatsalyam Home Stay

31. Shoja- Pure Hidden Gem

This pure hidden gem is a tiny village, nestled amidst wilderness. If you’re looking for some peace and solitude on your trip, you can plan a getaway in this quaint village that has untouched beauty and no touristy crowd. The village is dotted with several temples and deodar forest surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains, making it one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh.

Ideal for: Solo travelers and friends Ideal duration : 1-2 days Best time to visit : April to June How to reach : Air: Nearest airport is Bhuntar (54 km/ 2 hrs). Rail: Nearest railhead is Chandigarh (279 km/ 7 hrs). Road: (from Delhi) Tirthan Valley is accessed by the Chandigarh-Manali NH21. Drive up to Chandigarh via Ambala. From there, follow NH21 to Aut via Mandi. Things to do : Jalori Pass, Seruvalsar and Manimahesh Lake, Chehni Kothi, Raghpur Fort Nearby famous places : Shimla Places To Stay:  DreamLand Home stay, Alien’s Adventures, Lambhari Hills, Jibhi, For A While, Hotel De Luxe

Suggested Read: 7 Scintillating Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh In Monsoon!

32. Manikaran Sahib – Hot Springs Of Himachal

Situated near to Kasol, Manikaran Sahib is one of the best tourist places in Himachal Pradesh . It is well known as a pilgrimage destination for both Sikhs and Hindus. What attracts people to this town is the hot springs and the famous temples. There are three hot springs where people can take a bath. It is believed that these springs have religious and spiritual beliefs connected to it.

Ideal for: Solo travelers and family Ideal duration : 1 day Best time to visit : October to June How to reach : Local buses are easily available for Kasol. The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport and the nearest railway station is Jogindernagar Railway Station Things to do : City shopping, hot springs in Manikaran Sahib, Harinder mountain Nearby famous places : Manali, Kasol, Spiti Valley Places To Stay:  Padha Family Guest House, Manikaran View, River Raga, Sun View Mountain Cabin, Karma Homestay Gargi Village

33. Solan – Mushroom Capital Of India

Located on the Punjab-Himachal border, Solan is a low-key hill station perfect for travelers looking for some time away from the hustle-bustle of the city. This beautiful city has ancient temples, monasteries and one of the oldest breweries in the country. Also referred to as a city of red gold, as it produces bulk quantities of tomatoes. It is one of the best hill station in Himachal. 

Ideal for: Solo travelers, friends and family Ideal duration : 1 day Best time to visit : Throughout the year How to reach : Solan is well connected to other major cities via regular buses and trains. The nearest airport is Shimla Airport, and the nearest railway station is Kalka Station Things to do : Visit Shoolini Mata temple, Solan brewery, Kuthar fort Nearby famous places : Shimla, Kasauli, Manali, Chail Places To Stay:  Yellow Valley Homestay, Sadhupul camps, Wonderful Stay At the Mall Road, Smalltown Sadhupul, Chandan Home Stay

Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Kasauli That Prove It’s The Best Town In Himachal To Get Close To Nature

34. Sangla – Most Charming Valleys

Sangla valley is the most charming valleys in the Kinnaur district. It is one of the famous places in Himachal Pradesh bounded by evergreen forests and snow-covered peaks. From forts to temples the place is dotted with several attractions making it an awesome holiday destination.

Ideal for: Solo travelers, friends Ideal duration : 1 – 2 days Best time to visit : April to June and September to December How to reach : One can either opt for a private bus or hire a cab to reach Sangla. The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti airport (238 km) and the nearest railway station is Shimla Toy Train Station (194 km) Things to do : Sangla Meadow, Kamru Fort, Chitku Nearby famous places : Kinnaur, Manali, Shimla Places To Stay:  Hotel Batseri, Dormico’s Hotel Paradise, Dormico’s Mehak Resort, Kinner Retreat, Debbhumi Regency

35. Nalagarh – Known For Its Serenity

Known for its abundant greenery and beautiful view, Nalagarh is one of the best tourist places in Himachal Pradesh . The main attraction here is the Nalagarh Fort which has been converted into a heritage hotel now. Tourists from all over the country visit this place to witness the mesmerizing beauty.

Ideal for: Solo travelers, family Ideal duration : 1 day Best time to visit : October to March How to reach : State transport buses, deluxe buses and semi deluxe buses regularly run to and fro Nalagarh. The nearest airport is Chandigarh airport Things to do : Nalagarh fort, Ramgarh fort Nearby famous places : Shimla, Kasauli, Chandigarh Places To Stay:  Vibes Hotel, HM Homestay, Hotel KARA, Green enclave, Fort Nalagarh

Suggested Read: 14 Surreal Hill Stations Near Pathankot One Must Explore To Get The Best Vibe Of Himachal Pradesh

36. Parwanoo – Captivating Ambience Of Hill Station

One of the best offbeat places to visit in Himachal Pradesh , Parwanoo is a beautiful small town. It is an ideal holiday destination for trekking and hiking. What is special about this place is that it offers beautiful apple orchards and delicious fruit products.

Ideal for: Solo travelers, friends Ideal duration : 1 day Best time to visit : March to May and October to November How to reach : Regular buses and trains from other major cities ply to Parwanoo. The nearest airport is Chandigarh airport (24 km) and the nearest railway station is Kalka Station Things to do:  Timber Trail, Cable car ride, fruit orchards Nearby famous places : Shimla, Kasauli, Chandigarh Places To Stay:  Hotel Virsa Kalka, Hotel Virsa, Oscar Banquet and Hotel, Lotus Grand Akm, Kasauli Nature Inn

37. Naggar – Mesmerizing Landscapes

Naggar, a mesmerizing town located in Kullu is known for offering picturesque sights. The place is known for its natural beauty and one can indulge in numerous adventurous expeditions such as trekking and camping etc. The place is also home to a popular folk-art museum and a hot spring, that lure visitors from near and far to this serene place. If you are searching for best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, head to Naggar for a serene getaway!

Ideal for: Solo travelers, photographers  Ideal duration: 1 – 2 days Best time to visit: April to June and September to December How to reach: One can either opt for a private bus or hire a cab to reach Sangla. The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport and the nearest railway station is Kiratpur Sahib Railway Station Things to do: Trekking and camping Nearby famous places: Naggar Castle, Uruswati Himalayan Folk Art-Museum, Gauri Shankar Temple Places To Stay:  Naggar Home Stay, Rise Adventure Campsite, Soham’s Chateau De Naggar, Mukul Homestay, Club Mahindra White Meadows Manali

Suggested Read: Don’t Miss Out On These 18 Awesome Things To Do In Kasol On Your Getaway To Himachal Pradesh

38. Arki – Serene Town In Solan

Image Credit: Harvinder Chandigarh for Wikipedia

Arki is another serene town located in Solan district and is quite popular due a magnificent fort that dates back to the 18th century. The place is quite popular because of its proximity to Shimla and is often visited by travelers staying in Shimla.  

Ideal for: Weekend getaway   Ideal duration: 1 day Best time to visit: Throughout the year How to reach: The broad-gauge railway station nearest to Arki is in Kalka which is 73 km away. The nearest airport is in Jubbarhatti, which is 40 km away.  Things to do: Camping Nearby famous places: Arki Fort, Diwan-i-Khas, Luturu Mahadev Temple Places To Stay:  Swastik Hotel And Restaurant, Raj Home Stay, Dawat Hotel, Ymc Homestay, Hotel Hill Star, Nakshatra Resort

39. Sarchu – Camping Redefined

Image Credit: Jen for Wikipedia

Sarchu is considered to be a prominent stoppage where you can find various accommodation options in the form of tents. Lying on the highway between Leh and Manali, the district of Sarchu in Himachal Pradesh has been established at an elevation of 4,290 meters. Living in one of the tented accommodations in Sarchu amidst the beautiful Himalayas will surely be a great travel experience for adventure lovers who are searching for the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh.

Ideal for: Nature lovers, adventurers Ideal duration: 2-3 days Best time to visit: February to April How to reach: you can come via cab when traveling from Spiti, Manali, or Leh. The nearest airport is Leh airport and the nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi (600 km) Things to do: Trekking and camping Nearby famous places: Jispa, Manali, Tsokar, Keylong Places To Stay:  Himalayan Routes Camp Sarchu, TIH Himalayan Shakia Camp

Suggested Read: 13 Wildlife Sanctuaries In Himachal Pradesh To Treat Your Inner Adventurer

40. Rumsu – Scenic And Surreal

A small village established at an altitude of 2,064 meters, Rumsu is considered to be one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. The place is loved for its scenic beauty as well as adventure activities. You can consider visiting this region of Himachal Pradesh if you want to explore the offbeat places here!

Ideal for: Adventurers and Photographers Ideal duration: 4-5 days Best time to visit: mid-June to early October How to reach: you can take a bus or cab ride till Rumsu village. The nearest airport is Kullu Manali airport  Things to do: Trekking, hiking, etc. Nearby famous places: Kullu, Kheerganga, Kasol, Manali Places To Stay:  Zostel Homes Rumsu, Naggar Home Stay, Rise Adventure Campsite, Robinhood Travel Hostel, ADB Rooms Snow Touch Resort

41. Paonta Sahib – Religiously Rich

Image Credit: Blue Particle Solutions Narender Sharma for Wikimedia Commons

This is an industrial city lying in the southern region Sirmaur and is established within picturesque mountains. Apart from being well established, this city is one of the most pious tourist places in Himachal Pradesh . The major religious attraction in this city is Gurudwara Paonta Sahib that is located on the Yamuna River banks. 

Ideal for: Religious trip Ideal duration: 3 to 4 days Best time to visit: February and March How to reach: you can take a cab or bus ride till Paonta Sahib Things to do: Worship, enjoy scenic beauty Nearby famous places: Assan Barrage, Yamuna Mandir Places To Stay:  Hotel Star City Heart, Hotel Nirmal Bar & Restaurant, Rockwood Resort, Hotel Rockwood, Hotel Shipra

Suggested Read: 15 Things To Do In Auli To Make Your Himachal Vacay Exciting And Productive

42. Keylong – Spiritual Vibes

Image Credit: Peter Krimbacher Moebius1 for Wikipedia

As a part of Lahaul and Spiti district, Keylong is one of the most interesting places to visit in Himachal Pradesh . This tourist destination is popular because of the magnificent Kardang Monastery, which is the largest as well as quite an important monastery in Lahaul. There are several interesting points in this place that are worth visiting.

Ideal for: adventurers, nature lovers Ideal duration: 3 to 4 days Best time to visit: February to April How to reach: a cab or bus ride till Keylong can be a great option Things to do: Trekking and camping Places To Stay:  Tandi Sarai, TIH Siramani River Camp, Gemoor Khar- Manor House, Jispa Journey Camp, TIH Bhaga Eco Camp

43. Losar – The Tibetan Vibe

Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Resting at an altitude of 4000 meters, Losar is a small hamlet which is located at the extreme end of Spiti. Situated by the confluence of the Losar and Peeno streams of the Indo Chinese border, this place is a heaven for the trekkers and the hikers. It is one of the unexplored yet one of the popular places to visit in Himachal Pradesh . There are winding paths to get lost into and there are breathtaking views to enjoy till the end. Standing here one can actually enjoy the soulful experience of peaceful villages and also the view of the surreal rivers and magnificent mountains.

Ideal For: Trekkers, Nature lovers Ideal Duration: 1-2 days Best Time To Visit: June To September How To Reach: The Kaza bus stand is the nearest from Losar which is connected with other cities. The nearest railway station to reach Losar is Chandigarh railway station from where one has to take a taxi or bus. Things To Do: Trekking Nearby Places To Visit: Spiti Valley, Tabo Places To Stay:  The Nomad’s Cottage-Losar Spiti Valley, The Nomad’s Cottage, Spiti Sojourn, Tethys Himalayan DEN

Suggested Read: 10 Awesome Things To Do In Kufri That’ll Enrich Your Himachal Travel Experience

44. Lahaul Valley – Surreal And Magical

Image Credit: KiMonastery for Wikimedia Commons

The Lahaul Valley happens to be one of the most surreal tourist places in Himachal Pradesh . A perfect escape for the adventure junkies, this place is like the ideal vacation destination. Surrounded by the null vegetation, clear blue skies and also the pollution free air, Lahaul valley is a picturesque location to find that lost solace. For the people who are up for some photography and want to capture the finest beauty of nature, Lahaul is the place to be.

Ideal For: Adventure lovers Ideal Duration: 1-2 days Best Time To Visit: May to mid-October How To Reach: The easiest way to reach Lahaul valley is by train. There is no direct connectivity but the nearest railhead is Chandigarh from where one can start the journey by road via bus or taxi. Things To Do:  Trekking Nearby Places To Visit:  Chandrataal, Pin Valley National Park, Baralacha La Pass Places To Stay: (near) Spiti Village Resort, The Rainbow Inn & Cafe

45. Jibhi – An Offbeat Place

Image Credit: Rjt Thakur for Wikimedia Commons

Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.

Jibhi is one of the right place to relax and spend some time peacefully with your loved ones. If you’re looking for an offbeat place to visit in Himachal Pradesh, then this is the right pick. Surrounded by nature, freshwater lakes and beautiful temples, you would not want to leave this mesmerizing place. So, listen to the melodious chirping of the birds and enjoy your vacation in peace.

Ideal for: Nature lovers Ideal duration: 2-3 days Best time to visit: March to October How to reach: Bhuntar is the nearest airport, 60 Kms away. The nearest railhead is in Shimla, 150 Kms away. Things to do: Relax and spend lovely moments, trekking, enjoying beautiful nature Nearby famous places : Shimla, Chandigarh, Dehradun Places To Stay: Victorian style wooden cottages

Suggested Read: Sweat No More: 54 Best Places To Visit In India This Summer

46. Theog – A Quiet Escape

Image Credit: Snjsharma for Wikimedia Commons

Theog is a quiet escape in Himachal Pradesh. It is a popular hill station located 32 kms from Shimla. Perfect for a beautiful weekend getaway in the hills, it is also considered as one of the most popular camping site options. Much away from the hustle bustle of the cities, this place is a paradise and lets you enjoy in the tranquility of nature.

Ideal for: Nature lovers, campers Ideal duration: 2-3 days Best time to visit: October and November How to reach: Shimla is the nearest airport, 45 Kms away. The nearest railhead is in Kalka, 105 Kms away, the bus journey from Delhi takes approximately 9 hours Things to do: Relax and spend lovely moments, camping Nearby famous places: Shimla, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Solan, Kasauli Places To Stay: Zostel Homes Theog, Taj Theog Resort & Spa, Hotel Taj View

47. Tosh – Unparalleled Natural Beauty

Image Credit: Numerounovedant for Wikimedia Commons

The beautiful village of Tosh is yet another one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. The tranquil village is located at the end of Parvati Valley and is famous amongst trekkers. The surreal vibe of the village will leave you mesmerized. Lush green hills, snowy peaks and nature’s glory combined will provide you with an exotic experience.

Ideal for: Nature lovers, trekkers Ideal duration: 2-3 days Best time to visit: April to October How to reach: The best way to reach is to take the bus going to Manali from Delhi since there is no direct bus to Bhuntar. From Bhuntar, you will find HRTC buses going to Barshaini. Once you reach Barshaini, you can trek your way to Tosh. Things to do : Walk through the Parvati river, long walk to Malana, visit Manikaran Sahib Nearby famous places: Kheerganga Trek, Parvati Valley Places To Stay : Whoopers Hostel Tosh, Pine Wood Inn Tosh, Paradise Holiday Resort

Suggested Read: Romance In The Hills: 15 Best Honeymoon Destinations In Himachal Pradesh

48. Sarahan – A Beautiful Hamlet

Image Credit: Dirk. Hartung for Wikimedia Commons

Known as Gateway to Kinnaur, Sarahan is a beautiful hamlet located in Himachal Pradesh. Famous for its apple orchard, gushing streams and terraced farms, Sarahan is a place with a lot of nature’s blessings. The peaceful and tranquil vibe of the place attracts tourists to this secluded village to spend some peaceful moments. If you are looking for cheap places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, plan a getaway to Sarahan.

Ideal for: Nature lovers Ideal duration: 2-3 days Best time to visit: April to June and September to November How to reach : There are trains and flights from Kalka to Chandigarh (9-11 hours) and from there one can hire jeeps or taxis to reach Sarahan Things to do : Enjoy nature’s beauty Nearby famous places: Tannu Jubbar Lake, Jalori Pass Places To Stay : Vasu Mansion Home Stay, Hotel Shrikhand Sarahan

Further Read: 11 Most Convincing Reasons To Visit Mcleodganj This Summer

Like the post? We bet you did! So, which of these delightful hubs will you be exploring first? Let us know in the comments below. And share this list of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh with your family and travel buddies and plan a wonderful trip to Himachal right away!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh

What are the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh?

Some of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh are: Shimla, Manali, Kasauli, Dharamshala, Dalhousie, Mashobra, and Malana.

What to do in Himachal Pradesh?

Himachal Pradesh hosts numerous enthralling expeditions such as trekking, rafting, paragliding, skiing, camping, and a lot more. The scenic beauty of Himachal makes it an ideal destination for holidayers irrespective of their age group. From comfortable stays to leisurely getaways, and extravagant shopping to delicious local cuisine, Himachal Pradesh has numerous surprises that one can experience on a holiday.

Where to visit Himachal Pradesh in August?

There is not one but many beautiful places in Himachal Pradesh to be explored in August. There is Shimla, Manali, McLeod Ganj, Bir Billing, and Malana. You cannot cover all these places at once because everything is far away and takes a lot of time to get there. Though you can always make multiple trips to Himachal Pradesh. It is a perfect destination for weekend getaways.

Which is the most offbeat place in Himachal Pradesh?

The following are the famous offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh: 1. Jibhi 2. Barot 3. Pragpur 4. Chitkul 5. Kalpa 6. Janjehli 7. Rakcham

Which is the best place to paraglide in Himachal Pradesh?

Bir is amongst the best places in Himachal Pradesh for paragliding. Paragliding in Bir is an amazing experience and attracts visitors from all around the world.

What is famous in Himachal Pradesh?

Himachal Pradesh is famous for a lot of things. It is known for its scenic beauty. You can also enjoy a myriad of adventure activities like trekking in Himachal Pradesh, paragliding, mountain biking, zorbing, etc. The culture and food of Himachal Pradesh is another famous thing that you can explore.

How can I visit Himachal Pradesh?

You can visit Himachal Pradesh either by road or air. There are public and private buses available from Delhi, Punjab, and Uttarakhand. There are three airports in Himachal Pradesh; Bhuntar Airport near Manali, Gaggal Airport near Dharamshala, and Jubbarhatti airport near Shimla. You can hire a cab or take a taxi from the airport to reach your desired destination.

What is the famous food in Himachal Pradesh?

Dhaam is the most famous food in Himachal Pradesh. It is served at weddings and holy gatherings where local people sit down and enjoy food together. Sidu is another famous dish in Himachal made from rice flour and is available at local tea shops. Chha Gosht is another famous dish in Himachal.

Which is the most visited place in Himachal?

Himachal is one of the greatest touristic states in India with a wide array of attractions offering countless experiences to travellers. Some of the most visited places in Himachal are Shimla, Kullu Manali, Kinnaur, Kasol, Malana, Dharamshala, Solang Valley, and Kufri.

Which is the most beautiful village in Himachal Pradesh?

The countryside land of Himachal is one of the most offbeat adventures you can enjoy by visiting some of its most beautiful villages. Some of the most popular names are Nako, Kardang, Chitkul, and Kibber.

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A Complete Travel Guide to Himachal Pradesh

Regular readers of this blog won’t be surprised to find that I consider Himachal Pradesh as my favourite state in India for various reasons. It is not only the natural allure of the Himalayas but the overall tourism infrastructure and the characteristic tourist-friendliness of the locals that make it the ultimate long-term backpacking destination in India. I have done the maximum number of posts from this area and practically I have been to every district of this state. I have written detailed guides to various regions of this state over the years and I think the time has come to write a detailed guide to this state. So, here you go!

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Understanding Himachal

Himachal Pradesh is a Himalayan state of India surrounded by Punjab, J&K, and Uttarakhand states on various sides and also the Tibetan region of China along its eastern border. While the state looks small on the map, do note that it encompasses an insane amount of geographical as well as cultural diversity. The lower areas of Himachal are usual hilly areas near the plains and the people and culture will also be the same. However, as you move northwards, you encounter the epic landscapes of rainshadow zones of cold deserts, where the locals have closer linkages to Tibet rather than Indian. Himachal has 10 districts but in terms of tourism, it can be divided into the following manner.

Shimla, Solan, & Pabbar Valley

Shimla is the capital of Himachal and one of the most famous traditional hill stations of the country. It has now become a big city that can get a bit too crowded and expensive in the peak season and I am not very fond of it either. Nevertheless, there are many places scattered around  From Kufri to Mashobra and from Chail to Narkanda, there is enough to see and do around Shimla, which is well connected with roads to the rest of the country and also has an airport. But the star attraction here is the Kalka to Shimla toy train built in 1903. There are some even more remote areas such as the Pabbar Valley and Chanshal Pass, that are parts of Shimla district but are only beginning to receive tourists in recent years due to their remoteness.

The Kullu Valley

The traditional attractions of the Kullu Valley include the towns of Kullu and Manali . However, the Kullu district covers a huge area and many of its valleys and regions can stand up on their own as major tourist hubs. Kullu town is the headquarter and administrative centre but the tourists generally stay in Manali, is located only 42 KMs ahead of it. The Tirthan and Sainj Valleys , which constitute the Great Himalayan National Park , Himachal’s latest UNESCO World Heritage Site , are also a part of the Kullu district although located a bit far. Also, the Parvati Valley centred around Kasol, is also not far from Kullu town and is a hub for backpackers , hippies , and Rastafarians and it is a completely different world on its own.

Kangra & Dharamshala

The Kangra region has become popular among tourists because of the numerous Tibetan settlements. Dharamshala ( McLeodganj ) and Bir-Billing , both are populated by Tibetan diaspora and favourite among backpackers. Bir-Billing has also become a paragliding and adventure sports hub of late. However, Kangra has its own history and culture that are worth visiting too. From the ancient temples to miniature paintings, and from tea plantations to high altitude treks, Kangra has something for all kinds of travellers. Some other notable areas in Kangra include Barot Valley , Pong Dam , Masoor Rock-Cut Temple , Heritage Villages of Garli-Pragpur , Andretta Pottery Village , Palampur Tea Estates etc. Kangra also has the second toy train line in the state, although it is lesser-known compared to Kalka-Shimla line.

Chamba & Pangi

Chamba has a very ancient history. Historical records date back to more than two millennia and it was an important Kingdom during the Gupta era. More accessible areas of Chamba are famous for its traditional hill stations like Dalhousie and Khajjiar along with historical places like Bharmour . However, those who are interested in more serious adventures can always opt for many serious treks or opt for hiking pilgrimages such as Manimahesh Kailash Yatra . The remote parts of Chamba include Pangi Valley and Churah , some of the hidden gems of Himachal and last remaining areas untouched by a commercial tourism boom.

Kinnaur is the entry point of what they call the Tribal Circuit of Himachal. The lower areas of Kinnaur are lush green and they display a sort of composite culture, a mix of Hinduism and Buddhism in their traditions. As you move higher up towards Spiti border, the landscape dries up. The people living in these areas are mostly followers of Tibetan Buddhism. Sarahan is the first major town you come across in Kinnaur and is known for the historic Bhimakali temple. Kalpa , on the other hand, is known for the monastery and the views of the Kinner Kailash , while Baspa valley covering Sangla & Chitkul is known for its pretty and colourful valley and glistening mountaintops. The higher reaches of Kinnaur is closer to SPiti and has similar landscapes. Nako is the most popular stop here built around a lake but there are many hidden gems in this area.

Lahaul & Spiti

Spiti Valley is a cold desert while Lahaul region is comparatively greener yet has a very unique topography, different from lower parts of Himachal. Both of them were combined to form the district of Lahaul and Spiti, a perennial favourite among travellers. Practically every village in Spiti has something unique to offer and many of them also have ancient monasteries that still preserve ancient relics and artefacts. The monastery in Tabo is known for for its wall paintings and is rightly called the Ajanta of the Himalayas. The monastery in Dhankar is noticeable for its mind-boggling setting, a fragile, thousand-year-old edifice precariously hanging onto a cliff! Key Monastery, Kibber , Langza , Hikkim , Komic , Chandertal , Pin Valley , practically every place has its own attractions in Spiti. On the other hand, Lahaul is known for some of the remotest valleys in Himachal. On the other hand, Keylong, the headquarters of Lahaul, is a pretty town and there are several medieval Buddhist monasteries located around the town. You can even undertake small day-treks to the ones such as Kardang, Shashur, and Guru Ghantal monastery to learn about the unique traditions and culture of the region. Lahaul has other interesting remote areas such as Trilokinath , Udaipur , and Miyar Valley .

Mandi & Bilaspur

The Mandi region is located at a comparatively lower altitude and people generally pass through it to reach more touristy areas of Kullu. But Mandi has its own attractions. Many ancient temples and shrines can be found here and the Tibetan diaspora of Rewalsar is also a delight of its own. There are many popular short day-treks as well as offbeat escapes here such as Parashar Lake , Kamru Nag , Karsog , Janjehli , Thachi Valley and Shikari Devi . You reach Bilaspur even before Mandi on the same route. It is again a picturesque town built around a lake and there are many temples scattered around this region.

The Manali Leh Route

The popular route to Ladakh starts from Manali and passes through a long stretch along the Lahaul region of Himachal before entering Ladakh. While Ladakh is a part of J&K, the route passes through a significant portion of Himachal and the entire stretch offers an excellent array of attractions including high mountain passes, high altitude lakes, Buddhist monasteries, and surreal views of the Bhaga Valley around Keylong . It is a perennial favourite among adventure bikers too.

Other Areas

There are a few other districts in Himachal that are not visited often by tourists. Una , Hamirpur , & Bilaspur are two lower districts that are closer to the plains and are generally bypassed by travellers. However, these areas also have a rich history and there are several major Hindu shrines such as Naina Devi Temple, Chitpurni Temple, Deotsidh Temple etc which are popular among local pilgrims. Similarly, the Sirmaur District sandwiched between Solan, Shimla, and parts of Uttarakhand, is underrated and receives minimal tourism but has its potential in terms of secluded hill stations, lakes, shrines, and treks.

How to Reach Himachal?

The mode and difficulty in transportation in Himachal vary from region to region. The lower areas closer to the plains of North India are well connected with road and air networks. On the other hand, the remote regions in Himachal bordering Tibet and Ladakh have very challenging road conditions. Although a lot of effort has gone into improving these border roads, still they remain some of the most difficult terrains to drive on, a fact that also attracts a lot of adventure bikers and drivers. Being a hilly area, it does not have much of a train network, except the narrow-gauge trains in Shimla and Kangra districts, which attract people more due to their nostalgic value rather than speed.

Himachal Pradesh has a hilly terrain and it is known for its curvy, adventurous roads. But in spite of this, the roads in Himachal are very good and also one of the best that you will find in any mountainous terrain. Almost all the places can be travelled by buses and taxis. The Himachal Pradesh State Transport Corporation provides services to almost every part of the state. Bus services may range from cheap/ordinary buses to AC Buses running every day. Himachal roadways have very good connectivity with other famous destinations like Chandigarh, Delhi, Dehradun, Jammu and so on. Taxi service is also available throughout the state and in a few major places, you can also get rental cabs also.

Due to its mountainous terrain, Himachal does not really have a train network but it has two exotic narrow gauge lines, the Kalka Shimla Line and the Pathankot-Jogindernagar Line . The Shimla line is more famous and better maintained and it has also been declared as a UNESCO World Heritage property.

Himachal has three domestic airports namely, the Kullu-Manali Airport, the Kangra Airport and the Shimla Airport.

The Shimla Airport has one flight to Delhi every day, from where it is easy to find connecting flights to other major cities in India. It is also called Jubbarhatti Airport after the exact place where it is located.

The Kangra Airport , located in the north-western parts of the state has a couple of flights that operate between Delhi and the Kangra Airport. Located close to Dharamshala, the Kangra Airport is sometimes also referred to as the Dharamshala Airport or Gaggal Airport . This Airport serves as the gateway to the important north-western regions in the state like Dalhousie and Dharamshala. Another option to reach these north-western regions is to take a flight to Pathankot and Amritsar airport.

The Bhuntar Airport is another important terminal as it serves as the gateway to Kullu-Manali, Parvati Valley, as well as the remote northern regions of the state like Kaza, the Spiti Valley and so on. The airport has flights plying between here and Delhi. There are taxi services from all these airports that will take your destinations or hotels. There are also bus services that operate from nearby bus terminals and taxis can be used to reach the bus terminals. There are also car hiring services near airports. As it is located near Kullu, it can also be called Kullu Airport by some.

But flights to airports places are costlier and the frequency of flights is comparatively very low. So, another option by air, which most of the people prefer, is to take a flight to till adjacent cities/states and then take a road journey to enter Himachal. The preferable options are Delhi , Chandigarh , Amritsar , Pathankot etc. Chandigarh and Delhi are central locations and are very well connected with Himachal by road. Those who want to visit Chamba & Kangra regions, Pathankot will be the closest major city in the plains.

Seasons in Himachal & Best Time to visit

Different seasons bring different colours to the mountains and valleys of Himachal. The same place can look radically different during different seasons. This is why, any prospective travellers must know what can one see in what season and plan accordingly.

Spring (March-April)

Spring is a delightful season in the hills. The valleys wake from deep slumber as the harsh winter slowly recedes. The higher reaches still remain covered in snow but it is a great time to visit the lower valleys and take up small treks. Rhododendrons, cherries, apricots, peaches, pears, plums, apples, everything begins blooming one by one during this season. The landscape turns lush green, dotted with pink, red, white, yellow, and what not!

Summer (May-June)

The summer is also a delightful season to explore Himachal. Spring blossoms slowly dry out but only to be replaced by other ones. Also, higher areas finally become accessible as the snow melts and many major treks also start during this season. This is also the time when Himachal receives maximum traffic as people from the plains visit in droves to escape the harsh summer.

Monsoon (July-August)

Monsoon is a tricky season in the lower Himalayas. The rain and the clouds have their charm but it is hard to hang out much in the rainy season and the trails also get slippery. However, the higher areas of Spiti and Lahaul do not receive much rainfall as the clouds are blocked by high mountains. This is why, this is a good time to visit Spiti, Lahaul, and also Ladakh beyond the boundaries.

Post monsoon (September)

Post monsoon is an excellent season to visit any part of the state. The monsoon rains subside and travelling becomes easy again. This is where the apples ripen in the valleys and depending on the location, you can locate other delights. For example, in this season the fields of Kinnaur turn pink with the blossoms of Ogla, a local millet. The dry areas of Spiti also remain delightful with pleasant weather and glorious colours.

Autumn (October- Mid Nov)

This is not a traditionally popular season for tourists. The greenery disappears as the winter nears but it is also too early for snowfall. But the reddish-brown hues of autumn also has a certain charm. Some areas of Lahaul and Spiti display brilliant fall colours with all the poplars turning yellow and orange.

Winter (Late Nov – Feb)

Winter, as expected, is the season of snow. People from the plains flock Himachal in the winter to enjoy snowfall. Traditional hill stations and lower areas remain very popular during this season too. However, it becomes difficult to access certain upper regions as the snow blocks various passes connecting them. Lahaul and Pangi Valley are not accessible during this time (unless someone has a chopper). Spiti remains accessible through Shimla-Kinnaur route but the winter is harsh here and public transport mostly stops functioning.

Top Things to See and Do in Himachal

Rural escapes & stays.

Staying in a village in Himachal, although sounds simplistic, can be a therapeutic and life-altering experience. Also, it is such a diverse state that the village experiences can significantly vary from one place to another, depending on the region you are in.

The good news here is that the tourism infrastructure is highly developed in most parts of Himachal and even in many remote villages you can find a cosy homestay, spend time with a local family, eat local food, and learn about their culture while enjoying nature’s bounty throughout your stay. It may also be possible to volunteer for some community work, teach village children, or work in some sustainable tourism project that can help you have a more intimate experience.

For example, if you end up in a village in and around Kullu, you will most probably witness the procession of one of their deities, where devotees carry the images of the gods on their palanquins and move around the mountain. You will also get to eat a lot of Seedu and if you are lucky, you will also see how ecofriendly watermills have been used for centuries by these villagers to make flour. If you opt for a Spitian Village, you will learn the intricacies of Tibetan Buddhist culture, learn about the harsh lives of the people in that cold desert, and eat some of the best momos, made of local potatoes, only if you stay in a local homestay instead of a typical commercial hotel. These are only a few examples and we believe you can explore and find out much more.

Backpacking Around the Valleys in Himachal

Backpackers love Himachal because it is full of affordable accommodations and friendly folks, apart from the obvious natural beauty. It is not unusual to find people from distant countries staying in some remote corner of the state for months and years. Beyond the traditional tourist spots of Manali and Shimla, a good number of places in the state have developed as ideal backpacker hubs over the last decade or so. Most of them are actually small valleys developed around beautiful hilly rivers.

The epicentre of backpacking culture in Himachal is the Parvati Valley, centred around Kasol. For some reasons, the valley is very popular with Israeli visitors and even most of the restaurants serve Middleastern food rather than Indian ones. Many small villages in the valley have also become destinations on their own. From Malana to Tosh, and from Kalga to Grahan, there are scores of places hidden inside this tiny valley that can play host to the vagabonds looking to be close to nature. Many parts of the valley now remind one of Goa of the swinging 60s, with the sea replaced by the mountains. You can also opt for a lot of treks around the valley but you can also simply do nothing, eat falafel, and listen to Bob Marley, while staring at the turquoise Parvati flowing through it.

If Parvati seems too popular for the eclectic bunch, there are many up and coming valleys where you can head to for a few days of serenity and contemplation. Barot, Tirthan, Sainj, Banjar, and many more such valleys now have excellent facilities for tourists to add to their natural allure. On the other hand, if you are looking for some serious adventure, you can go further and enter the higher regions. The cold deserts of Spiti Valley is, of course, a perennial favourite that needs no introduction. But there are many other such as Pangi Valley, Pabbar Valley, Hangrang Valley, or Miyar Valley, that most people have not even heard of but deserve a visit on their own.

Paragliding in Bir Billing

Himachal has many spots where you can take part in adventure sports such as paragliding, river rafting, zorbing, and rock climbing etc. The most famous spot out of them is Bir-Billing, which is known as the highest paragliding site in Asia. Actually Bir is a small village near Dharamshala while Billing is the ground which is located a bit higher up from Bir on a cliff which works as a launching pad for the gliders.

As you jump off from the cliff at Billing top, the whole valley of Kangra becomes visible and you can fly all over the valley. Trained and accomplished guides are available at the spot and they jump with you to help you have a safe yet exhilarating experience.

Apart from paragliding, Bir is also a nice place to stay and explore. It has a Tibetan Buddhist diaspora with many monasteries and institutions. There are some cool cafes around and the famous tea gardens that are famous for producing Kangra Tea, can be found around Bir too. Nearby Palampur is a bigger town and the centre of the Kangra Tea industry. Andretta near Palampur is another artistic detour here, where you can learn pottery and visit the art gallery.

Cold Desert Adevnetures: Lahaul & Spiti

Recently Lahaul and Spiti district was listed by Lonely Planet as one of the top regions to visit in 2018. Himachal lovers were hardly surprised because this has been the most popular region of this state for a while now. However, it is worth noting that even if the names are always uttered together, Lahaul and Spiti are two distinct areas. Spiti is a cold desert, much like Ladakh, while Lahaul is a lush green valley, especially in the summers. Spiti has become extremely popular of late while Lahaul remains somewhat offbeat, although one passes through it while going to Ladakh.

Practically every village in Spiti has something unique to offer and many of them also have ancient monasteries that still preserve ancient relics and artefacts. The monastery in Tabo is known for its wall paintings and is rightly called the Ajanta of the Himalayas. The monastery in Dhankar is no less important but even more mindboggling is its setting, a fragile, thousand-year-old edifice precariously hanging onto a cliff! The Key monastery also has a terrific setting overlooking the whole valley while Kibber is the gateway to Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary where snow leopards are often sighted. If you thought mummies can only be found in Egypt, you should visit a small monastery called Gue near Sumdo, while million-year-old fossils can be seen at Langza. The greenish-blue water of Chandertal is a reason alone to make this long trip while visiting the highest motorable village in Asia called Komic or the world’s highest post office in Hikkim are also prime attractions.

Lahaul also has a charm of its own. Keylong, its headquarter, has an exquisite setting on the banks of edge of the Bhaga River. At least half a dozen medieval monasteries are located in the neighbouring villages while you can also visit ancient temples like Trilokinath and Mrikula Devi, if you are willing to explore. The Miyar Valley is actually a secluded sub valley in Lahaul while there is also a very obscure but rewarding trek called Neelkanth, that takes you to a high altitude lake. The river Chandrabhaga is formed at Tandi, not far from Keylong, where Chandra and Bhaga rivers meet.

The Tibetan Buddhist Trail

From steamy momos to eclectic philosophy, Tibetan culture, and Buddhism has contributed a lot to the modern world and pop culture. While Tibet itself remains hard to reach, much easily accessible Dharamshala has been their de-facto capital for a while. When the Dalai Lama and his disciples were forced to flee from their homeland in 1959, they found a new home in India and McLeodganj became the seat of their government in exile. Since then, the Tibetan diaspora has spread all over India but still the best place to get acquainted with their culture is the region around Dharamshala.

McLeodganj itself needs no introduction. Apart from being the abode of Dalai Lama, it is a very popular tourist destination with scores of hotels and cafes aimed at visitors. There are many short hikes as well as big treks on the Dhauladhar mountains that start from the villages near the town. Tourists can also volunteer for various organizations working with Tibetan refugees or learn Tibetan arts and crafts in some of their institutions.

Beyond Dharamshala area, you can move on to Bir, which is otherwise known for its paragliding spot. It is around 60-70 Kms away and it practically has everything that McLeodganj has, just in a smaller scale and hence it is also less crowded and less expensive. The other major Buddhist settlement is Rewalsar in Mandi district, around 150 Kms from Dharamshala. A colossal statue of Padmasambhava looms large over the town and the lake after which the town is named. Most of the monasteries here offer very affordable accommodation and it is an excellent place to simply relax and meditate for a while.

However, if you do want to see Tibetan Buddhism in its purest and most ancient form, you can visit the frontier areas of Kinnaur, Lahaul, and Spiti Valley. The inhabitants here are not recent immigrants but indigenous people who have lived on the border of Tibet for centuries and have been influenced by its religion and culture. As a result, you can find some 1000-year-old monasteries here such as the ones at Tabo, Dhankar, Key etc. Some of them even have their own guest houses where you can stay and interact with the monks.

Kinnaur: The Perfect Melange

Kinnaur is the entry point of what they call the Tribal Circuit of Himachal (which also includes Spiti). Both the culture and landscape vary hugely as you move upwards through Kinnaur. The areas bordering Shimla and Kullu are lush green and they display a sort of composite culture, a mix of Hinduism and Buddhism in their traditions. As you move higher up towards Spiti border, the landscape dries up. The people living in these areas are mostly followers of Tibetan Buddhism.

The dominant feature all over Kinnaur is the imposing view of Kinner Kailash mountains. Sarahan is the first major town you come accross in Kinnaur, and is known for the historic Bhimakali Temple, one of the most important shrines of the state. Kalpa, on the other hand, is known for the monastery and the views of the peaks, especially during sunset, can get surreal. A visit to Kalpa is generally combined with Sangla, a smaller valley along the Baspa River. The town of Sangla itself is a pretty sight, set amidst apple orchards. If you go a bit further, you reach Chitkul, which is technically the last road-head, the last village on the border of China. Both of these locations are highly developed in terms of tourism and there is no dearth of accommodation. While every season has its delights, try to visit it in September, when the apples turn red and the slopes get covered with the bright pink of ogla blossoms.

Upper reaches of Kinnaur has many remote villages that are not yet a part of the tourist map. They have many hidden treasures but reaching them may not be easy. However, one exception here is Nako, which is a beautiful village on the border of Spiti. It is full of homestays and cafes and is very popular among visitors. It has a beautiful bluish green lake at the centre of the village, that looks surreal considering the dry landscape all around. If you still need to see more of Kinnaur, you should undertake the Kinner Kailash Parikrama, a trek that takes several days and goes through remotest villages of the region.

GHNP, the latest UNESCO World Heritage Site in HP

There are many national parks in India, there are mountains too, and then there is the Great Himalayan National Park, one of the most unique national parks in the country located at the heart of the mountains. It combines the natural joys of the jungle with the thrills of the mountain. The inhabited areas in the peripheries of the park also have their own charm and most of those villages are highly developed in terms of tourism infrastructure.

The GHNP is located in Kullu district of the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, thus making it the only such site in Himachal, excluding the Toy Train between Kalka and Shimla. It primarily consists of two major valleys, Tirthan, and Sainj. From trekking to bird watching, and from village stays to angling, possibilities are endless in this area. Due to the mountainous terrain, it is unlike any other national park in India. You can’t expect jeep or elephant safaris here. Instead, you need to hike through the jungles.

The GHNP has an ecozone, which is an area inhabited by local people that surrounds the core jungle area of the park. There are around 160 small villages dotting the ecozone. Some of them are connected by roads now while some others still require a bit of trekking to reach. Most of them are delightful propositions in terms of views, as well as experience. They all have their unique cultures and tradition of hospitality. There are ancient temples located against the backdrop of snowy peaks and boasting their own local myths and legends. There are also many small treks around the ecozone that should be enough to fulfil your adrenaline needs. On the other hand, the core zone of GHNP has many long, strenuous multi-day treks.

Also, this national park is not far from Jalori Pass, which is a destination in itself. It is a low altitude pass that gets covered in snow in the winter and blooms with wildflowers in the summer. Especially in the summer, watch out for purple Iris blossoms on the slopes around Shoja, en route to Jalori. You can also take up a couple of short hikes from Jalori to Raghupur Garh, and Serolsar Lake.

Trekking in Himachal

The Himalayas are the holy grail for trekkers all around the world. While the high peaks of Nepal and the religious trails of Uttarakhand have their own allure, Himachal Pradesh also offers a delightfully diverse range of trekking experiences throughout the state. From easy hikes along the fertile slopes of lower Himalayas to the strenuous ascents in high altitude, cold deserts, Himachal has enough options for both rookies and professionals to test their mettle. For the sake of clarity, we can divide these treks in the following manner.

Short DIY Treks

If you are new to trekking, or if you simply don’t have enough time, you can still have a great Himalayan trekking experience in Himachal Pradesh. Triund trek near Dharamshala and Kheerganga trek near Kasol are two of the most popular ones in this regard. But there are scores of other short treks such as Kamru Nag, Shikari Devi, and Parashar Lake treks, all in Mandi district and all of them lead to a local shrine with mythological connections at the top. You can also consider many other local treks to the villages around Kasol such as Malana, Grahan, and Rashol, or inside the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP), such as Bashleo Pass, Rolla, and Lambhri Top. Many popular hill stations also have short treks near them such as Dainkund near Dalhousie, Lamba Dug near Manali, Sangla Kanda near Sangla, etc.

Religious Treks

There are certain strenuous treks that the devotees undertake as a pilgrimage. But other trekkers can also join them in because the views you get are beyond your wildest imaginations. The Manimahesh Kailash Trek is one such trek in Chamba that takes you to a high altitude lake. Similarly, Shrikhand Mahadev in the edge of Kullu district is named after Lord Shiva and it takes you to a peak of 5227 Metres, which challenges even inveterate trekkers. Another such option is the Kinner Kailash Parikrama, that takes you through the remote villages of Kinnaur bordering Tibet.

High Passes

High altitude passes connecting different regions have been used by local hillfolk for ages but for an outsider, crossing them can be an exhilarating experience. While some of them like Rohtang, Sach Pass and Kunzum have now become motorable roads, there are many others where the only option is the to trek. Pin Parvati Pass connecting Parvati and Spiti, Indrahar Pass connecting Chamba and Kangra, Pin Bhaba Pass connecting Spiti and Kinnaur, Kugti Pass connecting Chamba and Lahaul, and Hampta Pass connecting Kullu and Lahaul etc are some examples of such treks that take several days to complete and must be done with trained guies and adequate equipment.

Alpine Valleys

There are many high altitude valleys all over Himachal that one can trek through. You come across dense forests and tiny villages along the way and eventually reach complete wilderness where you can camp under the starry sky. For example in GHNP, you can trek along the Tirthan or Sainj Rivers for several days to reach the sources of the rivers. Similarly, treks like Miyar Valley or Bara Bhangal can transport you to terrains that you never thought to have existed.

Inter-state Treks

If you still need even more adrenaline, there are many long treks that can take you beyond Himachal and connect to the Himalayan regions. For example, the aforementioned Miyar Valley eventually is connected to Zanskar, while Parang La connects Spiti to Ladakh, and Rupin Pass connects Kinnaur with Uttarakhand.

Adventure Biking, Driving, and Offroading

Not everyone can handle the sheer adrenaline rush provided by a sense of risk and danger. However, for those who do, it can be addictive. Adventurous travellers with their bikes or SUVs have been traversing the remote areas of Himachal for a while now. Although the road network has improved a lot in recent years, there are still stretches that are considered among the “most dangerous roads in the world”. Such a reputation can turn away many but the same can also attract certain type of travellers.

The Leh-Manali route has always been a favourite among bikers, and so does the Manali-Spiti-Kinnaur circuits. You pass through high passes that remain covered by snow even in the peak of summer, camp by the side of greenish-blue lakes, break bread with the lamas at ancient monasteries, and test your mettle as a biker at those treacherous bends, while appreciating the surreal landscapes unfurling in front of you at the same time. These are the experiences that money can’t buy. You must be there and make the physical effort to experience them.

Apart from them, there are other areas where adventure biking is picking up simply because they are extremely remote and the roads are unbelievably difficult. For example, the Pangi Valley, one of the remotest regions in Himachal, can be approached from three sides, via Sach Pass, via Lahaul, and via Kishtwar in J&K. All these three routes are more difficult than the other. Similarly, the villages of Dodra and Kwar are so remote that they were connected by a motorable road along the Chanshal Pass only a few years ago. Most of these regions get cut-off with the rest of the world for several months during the snowy winters while the adventurous souls line up to make the most of the brief window during the summers.

Manali to Leh Ride

Ladakh has always been the dream of travellers and explorers. There was a time when reaching this land used to be extremely difficult. But roads have improved now and bike or car trips to Leh is no longer a distant dream. The usual route for this starts from Manali and passes through a long stretch along the Lahaul region of Himachal before entering Ladakh and even to enter Lahaul one first has to cross the 3900 metre Rohtang Pass, which often remains snow-covered and is a destination in itself.

The Lahaul region is somewhat unexplored compared to its more famous cousin Spiti. This is why it is advisable to devote a few days here before entering Ladakh. It can also help you acclimatize before entering the high altitude zones and you can enjoy the beauty of the Bhaga Valley that gets covered with beautiful summer blossoms in the season. This region remains completely cut-off with the rest of the world during winter although a tunnel is now being drilled along Rohtang to make it accessible throughout the year.

Keylong, the headquarters of Ladakh is a pretty town and there are several medieval Buddhist monasteries located around the town. You can even undertake small day-treks to the ones such as Kardang, Shashur, and Guru Ghantal monastery to learn about the unique traditions, history, and culture of the region. Beyond Keylong, you have settlements like Jispa and Darcha, that can be used as night halts and some light trekking for acclimatization before entering Ladakh.

People, Culture & Cuisine of Himachal

The people from Himachal come from different ethnic backgrounds but over the ages, they have also developed certain common characteristics. Influence of Tibetan culture is visible because some of the areas border Tibet and also because a big Tibetan diaspora including the Dalai Lama lives in the state. Majority follows Hinduism here but the remote border areas are mostly Tibetan Buddhists. Various local languages and dialects exist but everyone understands Hindi and it is used for all official purposes.

Various parts of the state are known for various types of handicrafts and artworks. Chamba and Kangra have a rich tradition of Pahari miniature painting while the Buddhist monasteries of Lahaul and Spiti will capture your attention. Shawls made in Kullu are much in demand while their expertise in wood carving and sculpture can be seen in many ancient temples and forts spread over the state. Most Himachali regions have their trademark topis (caps), that are popular souvenirs among tourists.

Food in Himachal is rich and diverse. The traditional dishes in various parts of Himachal are called “Dham”s and they can vastly differ from each other. For example, dham from Kullu can be distinct from the one in Mandi while the one from Chamba is a different delight compared to the one from Kangra. These are generally prepared on special occasions and very few outlets sell them commercially. Staying with a local family in a homestay can enhance your chances of tasting the same. In the frontier areas of Kinnaur and Spiti, you can get excellent Tibetan foods, that include but not limited to momos and thukpas. Also, you can find many local delicacies in various areas, Siddu (home made bread stuffed with poppy seeds, walnuts and served with home-made ghee) being the most popular, and easily available in the Kullu region.

Transportation in Himachal

Within Himachal, buses are the primary modes of public transportation. The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) runs regular buses throughout the state, including some of the remotest corners such as Pangi valley, Dodra Kwar, and Miyar Valley. In certain routes, roads are so difficult and yet so exhilarating that the very act of riding a bus can be an adventure. Additionally, on certain routes one can find shared cars as a mode of transportation. As for people with their own vehicles, they should first check the requisite regulations, road and weather conditions, and also the availability of repair facilities and petrol pumps when visiting remote areas.

Accommodation in Himachal

Accommodation in Himachal comes in various hues and colours. The state has benefited in recent years by the deliberate thrust towards homestays. In many villages inside remote valleys, one can find delightful homestays at very affordable rates, run by local families. The popularity of homestays in certain areas has made other locations also to wake up and as a result, they can be found all over the state.

Apart from the homestays, most major towns have traditional hotels at various ranges. Expensive resorts and hotels can also be found around bigger towns and popular touristy areas. Also, a new trend of backpacker hostels can be seen in the areas popular among backpackers such as Manali, Kasol, Dharamshala, Spiti etc. In such hostels, one can stay and enjoy good facilities at very minimal costs although they have to share their rooms with fellow travellers.

Phone and Data Connectivity in Himachal Pradesh

In this day and age, it is hard to last a day without phone and data connectivity. However, in many remote mountainous regions, this can still be an issue. This is also one of the primary concerns for many travellers visiting from the bigger cities. While it may also be refreshing to be disconnected for a day or two, for many working professionals, this is not an option. Himachal has developed quite a lot in terms of connectivity in the last few years but there is a need to understand it according to its diverse geography.

Major towns of lower Kinnaur such as Sangla, Reckong Peo and Kalpa are well connected and all major networks should work there. However, frontier areas of Sangla Valley, i.e. Chitkul has limited connectivity. Similarly, the upper part of Kinnaur beyond Reckong Peo are not well connected. Only BSNL networks may work here, that too only for calling.

In Spiti only BSNL SIM works as of now. Data connectivity is very hard to find here. There are cyber cafes in Kaza and some hotels have Wi-Fi but the speed is generally not very fast due to the remote location and mountainous terrain.

Most major networks can make calls around Keylong but data networks are weak. However, many hotels and cafes around the town offer good free Wi-Fi. Rest of Lahaul again has low connectivity with BSNL being the best bet.

If you are going for long, multi-day treks and entering very desolated areas in the higher mountains, you will naturally have no network. Prepare adequately for that and inform everyone before leaving.

Rest of Himachal

Connectivity is now pretty good in the rest of the state. From bigger towns like Shimla and Manali to inner villages of Parvati valley, you should not have a problem, unless you are going too deep into the jungle.

Additional Himachal Resources

Over the years, I have written dozens of posts on various parts of Himachal. You can simply search my site going to the search bar at the top right corner for specific places or you can start with some of the places mentioned below…

Offbeat Places to Visit in Himachal

GHNP Travel Guide

Sainj Valley Travel Guide

Tirthan Valley Travel Guide

Parvati Valley Travel Guide

Keylong & Lahaul Travel Guide

Manali-Leh Bus Timings

Kaza (Spiti) Guide

Sangla-Chitkul Travel Guide

Mandi Travel Guide

Kangra Travel Guide

Sach Pass Guide

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14 thoughts on “a complete travel guide to himachal pradesh”.

That’s a comprehensive post on Himachal. Very helpful, Jitaditya.

How beautiful scence. !

Thanks for this wonderful post, I was looking for this kind of information about by tour to Himachal Pradesh. I am glad, sharing nice information by you. Through your post, I found there are lots of things to do in Himachal Pradesh, like adventure activities in Himalayas, honeymoon trip, family vacation, cultural activities and many more.

Keep it up and share more information with community.

have a good day.

This is the article I was looking for .Thankyou for such wondeful information. Good Job

I love trekking in Himachal Pradesh. informative content about Himachal Pradesh. keep it up.

Wonderful blog!!! Thanks a lot for giving so much information. Very well described and the pictures are extremely beautiful.

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I had also the plan last month for Dharamshala from New Delhi, but due to some circumstancer, i was not able to go for it. This time i will plan again and i am so excited. Thanks for sharing such a nice information.

“Well, this blog aroused my craving for visiting Himachal again. It has been quite a while now that I have traveled somewhere. The last time I traveled to Himachal was my first ever trip to Dalhousie.

Amazingly written, thanks for sharing.”

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Thank you for sharing and putting an input for the complete guide. I haven’t seen any such complete article where you will get every answer to your queries related to Himachal Pradesh. Loved it and keep it up. Tips are very useful.

What a wonderful and explanatory blog about Himachal Tourism Information. Places to see, how to go is explained in deep detail. Thanks for the guide. Want to plan a Himachal tour with above mentioned places, can explore Himachal Tour Packages crafted by our travel designers.

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Himachal Pradesh Tourism And Travel Guide

Varying from cold and snowy Alpine mountains to lush green sub-tropic valleys, the state of Himachal Pradesh has invited many to settle on its lands since as early as the Indus Valley Civilization. Tourism here is flourishing as Himachal is home to many picturesque hill stations. You can feast your eyes on enchanting colonial style architecture that crafts the landscape of Shimla , experience a heightened sense of spirituality at Dharamsala or go skiing and trekking in Kullu and Manali . With such a diverse landscape you can expect pleasant surprises to come your way at every turn in Himachal. Here is a travel guide to Himachal Pradesh and everything you will need to know to plan a trip to this Himalayan Paradise. 

How To Reach

Through the centuries the State has witnessed the reign of a number of independent and powerful rulers, Gorkha forces and the British leaders. Given its history, it is no surprise that there are such well-established the roadways that connect the different hills among themselves and with other cities in India . There are railways and airways available but you will find the road routes most reliable.

By Air: There are three domestic airports situated in three parts of the state. The Kullu - Manali Airport is a gateway to the northern parts of the state, like Manali, Spiti etc. The Kangra Airport at Gaggal is closest to Dalhousie and Dharamsala . The Shimla Airport is the southernmost airport, but services to this airport are not regular. Flight services are available from most Indian cities including Delhi , Mumbai , Chandigarh , etc.

By Rail: The Kalka railway station is as far as you can go in this hilly State. From Kalka, you can take the amusing narrow gauge toy-train up to Shimla and enjoy the scenic beauty that the hill-station has to offer. There are bus and taxi services to the rest of the State.

By Road: The well maintained and efficient roads that wind around the hills are perhaps the greatest asset of the state. They connect every city within the state and also connect Kashmir and Chandigarh through roads that are on every biker’s wish list. Parts of Himachal Pradesh are also connected to Delhi and Haryana. You will find a number of buses and taxis scouting these routes.

• How To Reach Himachal Pradesh

Weather and Best Time To Visit

The state of Himachal Pradesh encompasses very tall peaks, alpine forests and glaciers on one hand and warm meadows, rivers and flower-filled valleys on the other. The climate greatly depends on where you are and at what height your destination lies. In a broad sense, the state experiences three seasons - a long rainy season, a warm summer and a chilly winter.

If you are a romantic, the rainy season in Himachal will definitely attract you. The hazy evenings with clouds caressing the huge mountains will leave you mesmerized. Although most parts in Himachal experience good to heavy rain, there are some rain-shadow regions like Spiti and Lahaul for people who don’t want to get wet. Snow is common in the winters in Kullu , Manali and other northern cities. In the southern cities like Shimla and Dharamsala , winters are quiet but not as cold as the northern cities. Summer here is usually regarded as the tourist season as the weather is quite pleasant in most parts of the state. The state is bustling with activity around this time of the year. While valley regions can get a little hot, the hill-stations like Shimla and Manali offer an escape from the hot plains of the country.

• Himachal Pradesh Weather And Best Time To Visit Himachal Pradesh

Things to Do

Depending on where you are, there are many exciting activities for you in Himachal.

Shimla : Perhaps the most popular destination, Shimla has many enchanting places to see. Victorian-era buildings like the Viceroy’s lodge and Christ church are some of the stunning relics one will find in Shimla. The terrain in Shimla creates a perfect destination for treks, skating, cycling and so on. Shimla is in fact home to the largest ice-skating rink in Asia .

Dharamsala : This hill-top town is popularly known as the seat of His holiness, the Dalai Lama. The many prayer flags and monasteries will make you realize the spiritual paradise that Dharamsala is. The ancient Namgyal Monastery and the Library of Tibetan Archives are important Buddhist centers that are rich in traditional art-work and architecture.

Dalhousie : You may have heard of the famous waters of Karelanu for its healing powers, what you haven’t heard is that everything about this place has a capacity for healing. The magnificent Chamera Lake, the Daikund peak, and the Sach pass are wonderful examples of this.

Manali : Did you hear adventure? Of course, you did. Manali is the queen of skiing, rafting, paragliding, mountaineering, etc. Its beautiful snow-laden mountainside and glaciers are a sight to behold. The Solang valley is the seat of all adventure in Manali.

Spiti : No list is complete without the mention of this magical land. Spiti’s barren and rocky landscape is something of a sight. A homestay here is a spectacular way to understand the unique culture and lifestyle of the people who live here. The best time to visit is during the festivals when the whole mountain takes on a surreal appearance.

• Tourist Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh
• Things To Do In Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh is a great place to indulge in ‘pahari’ (of the mountain) cuisine. Kangra is known for madhra , a savory preparation of chickpeas cooked in a variety of spices. Dham from the northern districts consist of a full meal consisting of fresh red kidney beans and green lentils served with rice and curd. A popular snack among the Himachali folk is the babru , a version of kachoris served with yummy tamarind chutney. Among the meat preparations, chha gosht is a popular dish that has a lamb marinated and cooked in spicy gravy. If you happen to visit Himachal during the festive seasons then you will be enticed by the aroma of freshly baked akotri , a special cake made of wheat.

Almost every city in Himachal has markets lined with shops selling all kinds of souvenirs like handwoven wall hangings, woolen shawls, jewelry, wind chimes, sculptures, antique objects, prayer flags and pretty much anything that you will want. Among the popular shopping destinations are Kotwali Bazaar and Jogibara Road market in Dharamsala , Manu Market in Manali and Lakkar Bazaar and the Mall Road in Shimla .

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TOP DESTINATIONS

Shimla - a queen of hills, kullu- manali : valley of gods ( famous for snow covered mountains, river rafting, temples, festivals etc.), dharamshala - mcleodganj ( a home of his highness dalai lama).

Khajjiar- Mini Switzerland

Khajjiar- Dalhousie - ( One of the rare locations in the world that bear topographical resemblance with Switzerland )

Sarahan ( famous for ancient bhima kali temple), chail ( famous for heritage palace of former maharaja of patiala.

Destinations near Chail Shimla , Barog , Kiarighat , Fagu-Kufri

Narkanda (Famous for spectacular view of snow ranges

Barog (a beautiful stopover on the way to shimla and chail), naggar- manali - famous for heritage castle and rorich art gallery, paonta sahib (famous for historic gurudwara).

Destinations near Paonta Sahib Renukaji

Jawalamukhi Mata Temple (Famous for Ancient Temple)

Destinations near Jawalaji Temple Chintpurni , Chamundaji , Hamirpur

Chintpurniji Mata Temple -one of the Shakti Peethas

Destinations near ChintpurnijiTemple Jawalamukhi , Dharamshala

Chamundaji Mata Temple ( A famous holy shrine)

Destinations near Chamundaji Temple Dharamshala , Palampur , Jawalaji

Palampur ( Famous for Tea Gardens)

Destinations near Palampur Dharamshala , Jogindernagar , Chamundaji , Jawalaji , Bhagsu-Mcleodganj

Renuka Lake ( Famous for largest Lake of Himachal

Destinations near Renuka Lake Paonta Sahib 

Rewalsar Lake ( A place of worship for Buddhist and Sikhs)

Destinations near Rewalsar Lake, Mandi Palampur , Bilaspur

Rohru- Kharapathar ( Famous for Apple Orchards and Chanshal Pass)

Destinations near Rohru Kharapathar

Kalpa ( Famous for breathtaking views of snow clad peaks and cold desert mountains

Destinations near Kalpa (Kinnaur) Sarahan 

Himachal Pradesh Tourism and Travel Guide

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All You Need To Know About Himachal Pradesh

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Top Attractions in Himachal Pradesh

The state of Himachal Pradesh covers a number of destinations and each city offers something unique to travellers. Depending on the time of your visit and your interests, we suggest keeping aside at least five to seven days to explore these beautiful cities which are a huge part of Himachal tourism. 

Shimla, fondly known as the ‘Queen of the Hills’ is typically the number one destination in a Himachal Pradesh tourism itinerary . Thronged by tourists every year, it is most popular for the bustling mall road which is home to decade-old shops, new cafes and quaint bakeries selling classic favourites. Shimla is also known for its proximity to a number of lovely picnic spots close to the city. And if you are looking for a quiet holiday, we’d recommend including Kasauli, Sangla Valley, Naldehra and Chail in your Himachal Pradesh trip. Situated on the same highway, these small towns offer relief from the noise of cities and give you an opportunity to spend time amidst nature. Among the best spots to visit in Shimla are  Summer Hill, Jakhoo Temple, Christ Church and the Himalayan Bird Park.

A charming hill station located a few hours from Shimla, Chail is best known for the world’s highest cricket ground. Enveloped in untouched beauty, it is the ideal weekend getaway if you are looking for a quiet holiday. Home to the luxurious Chail Palace (which is now a hotel), Chail was once a summer retreat for the kings of Patiala. This peaceful hamlet is a great option if you are looking for a luxurious vacation amidst the beauty of nature.

Dharamshala

Dharamshala is a thriving city surrounded by the mighty Dhauladhar ranges, and is another destination which has gained immense popularity in the last couple of decades. A significant contributor to Himachal tourism, it is known primarily as the seat of the Dalai Lama. Located a few kilometres away from Dharamshala is the small town of Mcleodganj. Home to the stunning Namgyal Monastery, Mcleodganj is a small Tibetan colony with homely cafes serving the best momos, vibrant shopping streets selling silver jewellery and an air of excitement one can’t resist. Typically travellers combine the main town of Dharamshala and Mcleodganj in one trip with a majority of activities centred in Mcleodganj. Among the best places to visit in Mcleodganj, you must definitely include Dharamkot, Naddi Village and Triund. 

Another favourite among the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh is the beautiful hill station of Manali. Perhaps the most popular destination in all Himachal Pradesh travel guides, Manali is well-known for its charming landscapes, warm culture and adventure activities. It is also the gateway to the gorgeous Spiti Valley. Among the best places to visit in Manali, you must include Old Manali, Hadimba Temple, Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass. Manali can also be combined with the lesser-known villages of Kasol, Khirganga and Jibhi which have become a retreat for trekkers and nature lovers. A huge part of offbeat Himachal Pradesh tourism, these destinations give travellers an opportunity to explore the beauty of the mountains as well as enjoy local Himachal culture. 

The quaint, hilly hamlet of Dalhousie is another must-visit in Himachal Pradesh. Old-world charm, rows of pine trees and verdant fields welcome travellers to this poetic town and if you are a nature lover, you are in for a mesmerising experience. Besides the stunning views, Dalhousie is known for its marvellous Scottish and Victorian architecture and is a delight for history buffs. You must book your Himachal tourism packages for the months of October if you’d like to see this beautiful hamlet in all its glory. We recommend including Satdhara Falls, Dainkund Peak and Panch Pulla in your local sightseeing tour.

Spiti Valley

Rustic, snow-clad mountains and emerald green lakes – no one can resist the untouched beauty of Spiti. Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh is one of the most attractive and least-explored destinations in the country. Spiti is located at an approximate altitude of 12,500 feet above sea level and this cold-desert is accessible for about six months, as heavy snow cuts it off for the rest of the year.  The sparsely populated valley is an adventurer's paradise with umpteen camping sites and treks for one to explore. Spiti is also home to a number of magnificent monasteries such as Dhankar and Tabo which are a treat for spiritual seekers. The best time to visit Spiti is during summer – from March to July. However, it is always advised to check weather and road conditions from the Himachal tourism website before booking your Himachal Pradesh trip.

Fondly known as the Switzerland of India, Khajjiar is located close to Dalhousie. Most popular for its nine-hole golf course and untouched beauty, the small hilly hamlet is slowly gaining popularity among travellers. A huge attraction for nature lovers, Khajjiar is not for you if you enjoy action-packed vacations. Described as a small plateau, the town is home to a few sightseeing spots but its real attraction is the surrounding natural beauty. An ideal spot for a relaxed, family holiday, there are tons of activities to keep children busy including horse-riding, paragliding, boating, trekking and nature walks.

Top Things to Do in Himachal Pradesh

Himachal tourism has slowly gained popularity owing to the increasing number of adventure enthusiasts who visit the state. Well-known for a plethora of trekking trails, Himachal Pradesh tourism has something in store for all adventure buffs. Whether you are just starting out or are a pro – there are numerous trekking trails that you can explore. Some of the best trekking trails which are a part of Himachal tourism are Triund in Mcleodganj, Hampta Pass trek, Chandratal trek, Beas Kund trek and Deo Dibba trek.

River Rafting

River rafting in Himachal Pradesh has gained popularity in the last couple of decades. While it has always been a big part of Himachal tourism, it’s only now that adventure enthusiasts are exploring more avenues for rafting in Himachal Pradesh besides the popular Beas-Aut route. Manali undoubtedly is the best place to experience a tryst with river rafting and if it’s your first time, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the memorable experience. Among other popular places which are slowly becoming favourites for river rafting, River Sutlej in Shimla, Chamera Lake in Dalhousie and River Chandrabhaga in Lahaul stand out for the thrilling experiences they offer. 

Himachal tourism has consistently promoted eco-tourism and the efforts are visible at small camping sites in Shimla, Sangla and Kasol. Himachal tourism operators now offer adventure enthusiasts an opportunity to set up camp independently or camp as part of a group – depending on their budget and interests. The most popular spots for camping in Himachal Pradesh are Mashobra, Sangla Valley, Dainkund Peak, Triund and Raison.

The best way to bring back a piece of your travels is through souvenirs and Himachal Pradesh doesn’t disappoint. With a vibrant pahadi culture, the state is known for intriguing crafts, exceptional woodwork and of course handmade woollens. For those who enjoy exploring local markets during their vacation, the cities in Himachal will surprise you. Selling everything from jewellery, apparel, home decor, traditional crafts to jams, juices and pickles – the markets in Mcleodganj, Shimla, Old Manali and Kasauli are a must visit. For authentic Himachali crafts, you must visit the Himachal tourism emporiums in Shimla.

Hotels in Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh is one of the most visited destinations in India and offers visitors everything they need for a memorable vacation including great accommodation options. Depending on your budget and interests, Himachal tourism offers five-star resorts, traditional homestays, backpacker hostels and camping sites.  

Luxury hotels in Himachal Pradesh

Situated amidst surreal beauty, luxury resorts in Himachal Pradesh will add a zing  to your vacation. With multi-cuisine restaurants, swimming pools, spas and warm hospitality, resorts in Himachal are everything travellers can wish for. Some of the best luxury resorts in Himachal Pradesh are:

• The Oberoi Cecil, Shimla
• The Himalayan, Manali
• Wildflower Hall, Shimla
• Baikunth Resort, Kasauli
• Aamod, Dalhousie
• GenX Great Himalayan Resort, Mcleodganj

  Mid-budget hotels in Himachal Pradesh

Promising stunning views of mountains, efficient service and gorgeous rooms, mid-budget hotels in Himachal Pradesh are the most popular accommodation option for travellers. Some of the most recommended are:  

• Johnson’s Lodge and Spa, Manali
• Udeeche Huts, Dharamshala
• Shimla Havens Resort, Shimla
• Winnies Holiday Spa and Resort, Kasauli

  Budget hotels in Himachal Pradesh

If a warm place to stay, delicious food and picturesque landscapes are what you look for in a vacation, Himachal Pradesh doesn't disappoint. Himachal Pradesh tourism has ensured that budget travellers have a comfortable stay during their time in the state. Some of our favourites are:

• The Tranquil Inn, Manali
• Hotel Baljees Residency, Shimla
• Hotel Holiday Hill, Mcleodganj
• HPTDC Holiday Home, Shimla
• Wanderer’s Nest, Spiti

  Hostels

If you are travelling on a budget, hostels are the best accommodation option! Giving you a chance to interact with fellow travellers and exploring hidden gems, hostels are becoming a huge part of offbeat Himachal tourism. Some of the best hostels in Himachal Pradesh are:

• The Bunker, Dharamkot
• Nomads Hostel, Kasol
• Zostel, Old Manali
• The Culture Nation Hostel, Kullu
• Alt Life, Manali

Himachal Pradesh Cuisine and Best Places to Eat

It’s said that food binds people and cultures together and we couldn’t agree more. While Himachal tourism has given rise to a wide variety of restaurants and in turn has brought world-cuisines to the state, the authentic cuisine of Himachal Pradesh is a delight for food lovers. 

Owing to the climatic conditions of the state, most of the food is grown through stepfarming and you’ll only be treated to the freshest produce. Here is a list of our favourite local delicacies in Himachal Pradesh:

Dham is a local delicacy prepared using red beans or rajma and it is a big favourite with tourists visiting Himachal Pradesh. Best enjoyed with steamed rice and fried potatoes, you can ask your hotel restaurant to prepare this for you.

Sidu is another delicacy which is prepared using bread with wheat flour and is typically had as a snack with morning and evening tea.  

Madra which is a local dish from Chamba has slowly garnered popularity as a roadside snack and you’ll see vendors on Shimla and Manali highways selling this delicious chickpea dish.   

For non-vegetarians, we suggest chha gosht , which is a spicy, aromatic local favourite.   

Best Places to Eat in Himachal Pradesh

Owing to the popularity of Himachal tourism, there are tons of restaurants in Himachal Pradesh which are a must visit for food lovers. From family-run cafes in Mcleodganj to a decade-old ice-cream parlour on the Ridge in Shimla, the towns of Himachal Pradesh offer a memorable culinary journey. And of course, nothing beats steaming tea at a local dhaba with piping hot aloo paranthas and a stunning view of the mountains – so stop as often as you can during your journey. Among the best restaurants in Himachal, you must try:

• Fascination in Shimla 
• Dylan’s Toasted and Roasted in Old Manali
• Cafe Shimla Times, Shimla
• Nick’s Italian Kitchen, Mcleodganj
• The Chocolate Log, Mcleodganj

Best Time to Visit Himachal Pradesh

The best time to visit any place in Himachal Pradesh is during the summer season. With comfortable day temperatures of 24 degree Celsius and evening temperatures of 15 degree Celsius, you can easily explore the best of Himachal tourism. The months from March to June are ideal if you'd like to try adventure activities such as trekking, camping and river rafting. 

July to August usually marks the monsoon season in Himachal and it's best avoided. With frequent landslides and roadblocks, most of the places are inaccessible.

If you’d like to enjoy views of snow-covered mountains, you can visit during winter which typically begins from the month of October. October to March is the ideal time to explore Himachal tourism, especially the cities of Manali, Shimla and Kufri.

Typical Costs in Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh welcomes all types of travellers. Whether you are looking for a cost-effective vacation or a luxurious one, the state has it all. With typical day costs ranging between Rs.2,000 to Rs.500, travellers can plan a trip according to their interests and budget.

Luxury travellers can spend up to Rs.15,000 per day in Himachal Pradesh including accommodation, sightseeing, adventure activities and eating out.

For mid-budget travellers, costs can be anywhere between Rs.2500 to Rs.5000 depending on the accommodation, time of visit and activities. 

Himachal tourism has made it extremely convenient for budget travellers to enjoy a hassle-free trip to Himachal Pradesh. With per day costs as low as Rs.300 to Rs 1000, travellers can explore the beauty of the mountains without making a dent in their budget.

Transport in Himachal Pradesh

In an effort to conserve the environment and minimise noise pollution, Himachal tourism has a strict ‘no-vehicle’ rule in most areas. This rule is quite strict in Shimla and Manali and you will hardly see any vehicles in market areas. 

In Dharamshala, the traffic police are stern about parking spaces and commercial vehicles have a separate spot reserved for parking. So the best way to travel within the city is on foot! If you have always wondered why locals in the mountains are so fit, this is their secret. They walk to most places and for long distances; public transport is also easily available. 

If you’d like to explore local markets and your hotel isn’t too far, we suggest walking. However, if you are staying a little further from the main areas, you can request your hotel to arrange for a private taxi to drop you near the market. 

For interstate travel, Himachal tourism buses ply frequently and follow a strict schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Himachal Pradesh is in the summer – between the months of March and June. This is also the time when Himachal tourism is at its peak and for travellers planning their trip, it’s best to go through the Himachal tourism website to ensure weather and traffic conditions are suitable.

Himachal tourism sees a huge rush of tourists during winter owing to great weather. If you’d like to enjoy snow-capped peaks and winter adventure activities, you must travel to Mcleodganj, Khajjiar, Manali and Dalhousie. 

The best trekking spots in Himachal Pradesh are Beas Kund, Hampta Pass and Triund. You can cover these Himachal tourism spots in summer to get the most out of your Himachal vacation.

There are umpteen summer Himachal tour packages which offer you a glimpse of the best places in Himachal Pradesh. Some of the most notable places in Himachal tourism are Shimla, Dalhousie and Bir and Billing.

The best way to reach Himachal Pradesh is by road. Since the terrain is tricky, there is minimum railway and air connectivity but the strong network of roads and the consistent efforts of Himachal tourism has made it convenient for travellers to visit most cities and towns in the state. 

Himachal tour packages typically cost between Rs.20,000 to Rs.35,000 depending on the duration of your trip and number of places you cover. 

Paragliding has become a huge attraction for travel enthusiasts in Himachal Pradesh with places such as Bir and Billing, Sethan and Solang in Manali offering a memorable experience. Travellers can book packages focused on adventure activities from the Himachal tourism website for better discounts. 

Himachal Pradesh nestles a number of religious spots which are an undeniable part of Himachal tourism. Some of the most notable ones are Manikaran Sahib in Kullu, Hanuman Mandir in Jakhu, Shimla and Namgyal Monastery in Mcleodganj.

The weather in Himachal Pradesh is usually quite cool. It’s highly recommended to carry light woollens during summer and heavy woollens during winter. Also, rains are quite unpredictable in the mountains and carrying an umbrella is always advised. Among other things, you must pack a good sunscreen, a few emergency snacks (especially if you plan to trek) and a fleece blanket for impromptu bus journeys. You must also carry a Himachal Pradesh map at all times. 

Himachal tourism offers travellers customised Himachal Pradesh  travel guides  which include the best weekend getaways. Among the most visited are Kasauli, Nahan, Mashobra, Chail and Shimla which stand out for their beauty and close proximity to the capital city.  

The best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh are Manali, Sangla Valley, Dalhousie, Bir and Billing and Mcleodganj. All these beautiful cities are huge contributors to the growth of Himachal tourism. 

Monsoon hits the region around July and it is recommended to limit your travel to Himachal Pradesh during this time. Owing to frequent landslides, it’s also recommended that travellers check the Himachal tourism website before booking their tickets.

There is railway connectivity to Shimla, however, the only direct train is from Kalka. A popular attraction for Himachal tourism, the Shimla Toy Train takes close to seven hours from Kalka to Shimla and crosses almost 101 tunnels. If you have time, you must include this in your Shimla itinerary.

You can head to the official website for Himachal tourism to get all the latest updates on the best sightseeing spots, the best time to visit and the best accommodation options.

Travellers will be spoilt for choice in Himachal Pradesh. Depending on your interests, you can try a few adventure activities including paragliding, river rafting and trekking or spend time amidst nature and enrol in a few walking tours of lesser-known spots. 

Himachal Pradesh welcomes tourists from across the world but travellers should keep in mind that the terrain is tricky and weather conditions can be unpredictable. Before you plan your trip to Himachal, ensure that you have the latest updates on weather and traffic. If you are travelling to remote locations for treks and will have limited network, it’s best to keep someone informed of your whereabouts.

Shopping has played a huge role in the growth of Himachal tourism. The best markets in the state are in Shimla, Dharamshala and Manali. You can shop at  lakkar bazaar  in Shimla for beautiful wood items and the Tibetan market for reasonable apparel and shoes. If you’d like to take back silver jewellery, you can try the streets of Mcleodganj. For prayer flags and Buddhist message scrolls, you must try the Himachal tourism stores in Dharamshala. For fresh jams and fruit wines, the market at Manali is a great option. Do remember to buy only from Himachal tourism stores for authentic products. 

Himachal Pradesh is a vast state with umpteen small towns and villages. If you’d like to explore Himachal tourism in its entirety, it can take anywhere between 30 days to six months depending on your budget and how much time you are willing to spend in each city.

If snow-capped mountains and freezing temperatures are your ideas of a vacation, then Himachal Pradesh is perfect for you during winter! Since there is heavy snowfall in most regions, it’s highly recommended that you check the Himachal tourism website before booking your trip. We also recommend visiting popular tourists places such as Manali and Shimla during winter rather than a lesser-known town.

Owing to the efforts of Himachal tourism, there is mobile connectivity in most places in Himachal Pradesh. If you are travelling to remote locations with limited phone connectivity, you can communicate through public phones or request your hotel for a local number. 

The growth of Himachal tourism has ensured the presence of ATMs in all major cities and towns in Himachal Pradesh. However, if you are travelling to villages or are heading out for a trek, we suggest keeping ample cash with you or withdrawing from the last major town you cross.

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20 best places to explore in himachal pradesh.

A village whose descendants trace their ancestry to Alexander the Great, a town which you could easily mistake for Tibet, a place where people still live in caves, and a valley which is too beautiful to be explored, Himachal Pradesh is a famous tourist destination where one surprise overtakes another quickly.

It was as if nature decided to create a place which would remind onlookers of her infinite reserves. Hugged by the ancient Himalayas, valleys that stretch themselves leisurely, rivers which are enticing & sometimes menacing, mountain lakes which are revered as holy sites, the diversity of the topography is matched only by its beauty.

To go with all this is a culture that celebrates life, faith, devotion and friendliness. If beautiful was a place, it would be called Himachal. In this blog, we bring you the 16 best places in Himachal that showcase its beauty to the fullest, and as you go on to explore its popular tourist attractions, a sigh emanates from the deepest regions of your being which makes you say: Oh, Himachal!

List of Top 20 Must Visit Destinations in Himachal Pradesh-

• Dharamshala
• Tirthan Valley
• Sainj Valley
• Spiti Valley
• Lahaul Valley

Popular Himachal Sightseeing Tour Packages

Manali: Culture & Adventure!

Manali is counted among the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh because of its rich cultural heritage, deodar & pine forests, amazing views of the snow capped mountains and rich cultural heritage. If you visit it in the first week of January, you can attend the winter carnival which is marked by dance performances, street plays, songs, group dance and a Winter Queen beauty pageant.

Manali also attracts adventure enthusiasts with opportunities for white water rafting on the River Beas, with its Grade II & III rapids.

Popular Sightseeing Attractions in Manali

• Hadimba Temple
• Vashisht Hot Spring
• Solang Valley
• Rohtang Pass

Top Things to Do in Manali

• Hang out at The Mall
• Explore the cafes & streets of Old Manali
• Visit the local bazaar to buy souvenirs & other items

Recommended Tour Packages

• 3 Nights 4 Days Manali Tour Package
• 4 Nights 5 Days Kullu Manali Honeymoon Tour

Shimla: Always the lovers’ destination!

Think top honeymoon destinations, think Shimla ! Its rich colonial past is evident in its architecture, some of which are also the top tourist attractions including Christ Church, Gaiety Theatre and Barnes Court (now known as Raj Bhavan).

Standing apart from all these, in terms of pure excitement and thrill, is the ride on the toy train from Kalka to Shimla, which has also been designated by UNESCO as a heritage site.

Top Sightseeing Attractions in Shimla

• Chadwick Falls
• Jakhoo Temple
• The Mall Road
• Viceregal Lodge
• Tara Devi Temple
• Sankat Mochan Temple

Top Things to Do in Shimla

• Hang out at the Mall Road
• Take a ride on the Kalka Shimla Toy Train
• Visit Maria Brothers, an antiquated bookstore
• Enjoy a snack & cup of coffee at Wake and Bake
• 2 Nights 3 Days Shimla Tour Package
• 5 Nights 6 Days Shimla Manali Tour

Dharamshala: Like Tibet, but India!

Dharamshala has its fair share of colonial influence, like most of the other tourism places in Shimla. But, it’s the Tibetan influence which overshadows any other influence.

In Mcleodganj, a small town inhabited by mostly Tibetans, you could very well imagine yourself to have landed in Tibet quite suddenly! You could explore the main street with its Tibetan craft shops, taste Tibetan dishes, and visit the Tsuglag Khang temple.

Top Sightseeing Attractions in Dharamshala

• Bhagsunag Falls
• St. John Church
• Kanga Art Museum
• War Memorial
• Norbulingka Institute
• Gyuto Monastery
• Chamunda Devi Temple
• Bhagsunag Temple

Top Things to Do in Dharamshala

• Go trekking to Triund Hill
• Enjoy shopping at Mcleodganj Market
• Enjoy a picnic at Dal Lake

Recommended Tour Package

• 3 Nights 4 Days Dharamshala Sightseeing Tour

Dalhousie: Its Beauty Won Over Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose!

The best places to visit with family in Himachal should always include Dalhousie , a hill station whose charm won the heart of Neta Ji Subhash Chandra Bose (Freedom fighter of India).

The colossal Dhauladhar Ranges with their snow capped peaks, rich colonial architecture, beautiful churches, forest trails that overlook wooded hills, waterfalls and springs, and a pleasant climate, all of these combined make it a popular tourist attraction in Himachal.

Popular Sightseeing Attractions in Dalhousie

• St. Patrick’s Church
• St. Francis Church
• St. John’s Church
• Subhash Baoli
• Panchpula Waterfall
• Satdhara Falls
• Bhulwani Mata Temple
• Bhalei Mata Temple

Top Things to Do in Dalhousie

• Trekking at Bakrota Hills
• Go hiking at Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
• 2 Nights 3 Days Dalhousie Weekend Tour

Kalpa: Be Touched by the Hand of Happiness!

In the heritage village of Kalpa, you will be touched by the hand of happiness as the rising sun touches the snowy peaks with its crimson hand in the morning. You will also be fascinated to know that this popular travel destination in Himachal was visited by Governor General Lord Dalhousie in the 19th century.

What is most fascinating though, is its proximity to Kinner Kailash, believed to be the winter home of Lord Shiva. It is also one of the best places to visit in Himachal during the monsoon, since its beauty is enhanced by the rains.

Popular Sightseeing Attractions in Kalpa

• Narayan Nagani Temple
• Hu-Bu-lan-Car Gompa

Top Things to Do in Kalpa

• Trek to Chakka Peak
• Trek from Kalpa to Roghi Village
• Enjoy the views from Suicide Point
• Best of Himachal Sightseeing Tour Package

Tosh: One Incredible Scenery After Another!

If you want to spend your holidays in Himachal in complete peace while coming across one incredible scenery after another, visit the offbeat destination of Tosh in Parvati Valley.

You should visit it to explore the beautiful face of nature, like walking through River Parvati, trekking through Kheerganga and inhaling lots of fresh, pure air. You will also come across a lot of backpackers from Israel and Europe here!

Top Things to Do Here

• Walking the River Parvati
• Enjoy camping
• Go trekking at Kheerganga

Other Interesting Blog to Read

• Interesting Facts About Himachal Pradesh

Marhi: Just Go Trekking!

You should visit Marhi, located between Manali and Rohtang La on the Manali Leh Highway, if you are a trekking enthusiast. From Kothi, you can trek to Marhi, crossing fabulous valleys, snow-capped peaks and incredible views accompanying you along the way.

Top Things to Do 

Also Check Out: Top Trekking Destinations in Himachal Pradesh

Tirthan Valley: Bliss Calls it its home!

Tirthan Valley is an offbeat Himachal tourist destination, which is surprising, considering the kind of beauty it is blessed with. The valley is a part of the Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mountains, alpine meadows, coniferous forests and peace that soaks you from within, it is a sheer bliss to find yourself here.

Bird lovers should also consider visiting this place, since it is identified as an important Bird Area by IUCN which is home to more than 300 species of birds.

• Hike from a village called Rorla to a waterfall.
• EXplore the scenic villages
• Spend time by the River Tirthan
• Visit the Great Himalayan National Park
• 7 Nights 8 Days Himachal Hill Station Tour

Kangra: Rich Culture & Heritage!

Don’t forget to visit Kangra while spending your holidays in Himachal if you want to enjoy plenty of sightseeing & get an idea about the heritage and culture of the region.

An example of this is the Kangra Fort , which was built in 1615 AD and even withstood a siege by the armies of the Mughal emperor, Akbar. There is also a famous school of painting which originated here and is known as the Kangra school of painting.

Top Sightseeing Attractions

• Kangra Fort
• Shree Bajreshwari Devi Temple
• Shree Jwala Devi Temple
• Shree Chamunda Devi Temple
• Baijnath Shiv Temple
• Masroor Rock Cut Temples
• Maharana Pratap Sagar
• Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple

Check out:   Popular Hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh

Nako: Quiet, Untouched, Remote!

Nako is a popular point of tourist interest in Himachal Pradesh for its serenity, untouched beauty and picturesque beauty. However, it lies in close proximity to the border of Tibet, so visitors need an Inner Line Permit to visit it.

One of the major attractions here is Lake Nako, in close distance to which are located four Buddhist monasteries and an enormous footlike impression.

Popular Sightseeing Attractions

• Nako Monastery
• Lipa Asrang Sanctuary

Check out: Popular Tourism Lakes in Himachal Pradesh

Sainj Valley: Too beautiful to be explored!

Since this blog is about the 12 best places that celebrate the beauty of Himachal, a place like Sainj Valley will automatically find a position in this list. It is the epitome of untouched beauty, a place where the hills, meadows, lakes and even the villages feel like they were too beautiful to be touched.

It is located in the lower ranges of the Great Himalayan National Park, itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Sainj Village
• Meadows of Shangarh
• Pudrik Rishi Lake
• Great Himalayan National Park

Check out: Wildlife Tourism in Himachal Pradesh

Tabo: Dalai Lama Wishes to Retire Here!

The Dalai Lama once expressed desire to retire in Tabo, since he thought Tabo Monastery was the holiest monastery in the entire world. But that is not the only reason to visit this quaint town.

By its sheer remoteness, it is the top travel destination to visit in Himachal. It’s interesting to know that the ancient structures made of mud have survived over a thousand years with minimal repairs. There are several caves too, some of which are used as dwellings by the locals even today! But wait, you can even use them to camp for a night or two!

• Tabo Monastery

Popular Things to Do

• Explore the caves
• Visit the Zion Cafe
• Taste the Tabo apples
• Stay in the caves

Check out: Popular Monasteries in Himachal Pradesh

Kasauli – Colonial Grandeur Dipped with Tranquility

Dotted in Shivalik Hills, the beautiful Hill Station of Kasauli will take you back to colonial times. It was established by the Britishers, so it still has kept its colonial charm intact. Abundance of Pine and Oak trees, gorgeous gardens, colourful shops, tennis courts, cobbled paths, churches and clubs; Kasauli is indeed an escape full of nature’s bliss and serenity that every nature lover asks for. The most interesting fact about Kasauli is that it houses the oldest functioning distilleries for Scotch Whiskey in Asia – Kasauli Brewery and Distillery. Lofty snowstorms, crispy mountain breeze and torrents makes it one of the most enchanting destinations of Himachal Pradesh.

Top Sightseeing Attractions in Kasauli

• Gilbert Trail
• Sunset Point
• Kasauli Brewery
• Gurkha Fort
• Sunrise Point
• Timber Trail Resort
• Christ Church
• Monkey Point

Top Things to Do in Kasauli

• Toy Train Ride
• Nature Walk
• Visit Timber Trail and Monkey Point
• Fun at Hangout Bar
• Embrace Nature at Gilbert Trail
• Visit Kasauli Brewery
• Best Snow Tourist Destinations in Himachal

Malana – Hidden Amidst the Enchanting Himalayas

Quiet and serene, dotted amidst the tranquil and sublime Himalayan Mountains, Malana is one of the most interesting tourist destinations to visit in Himachal Pradesh. It is very popular among Hipsters. Drinking the nectar of delightful greenery, its soothing incredible valleys will captivate your senses forever. It is one of the most beautiful places to explore as it is bordered by the mesmerizing Parvati Valley on one side and Kullu valley on the other. Don’t forget the enchanting peaks of Cahndrakhani and Deotibba. Its vibrant culture and traditions will enrich your mind and heart. If you ever get a chance to be a part of the delightful Malana village festivals, it will be totally worth your time.

Top Sightseeing Attractions in Malana

• Jamadagni Temple
• The Chanderkhani
• Deo Tibba Mountain
• Hampta Pass
• Parvati Valley
• Renuka Devi Temple

Top Things to Do in Malana

• Jeep Safari
• Hot Springs
• Taste Milanese Cuisine
• Best 5 Treks to Do in Himachal Pradesh Between April and October

Mashobra – Surreal and Sublime

Mashobra is a place to disappear into a tranquil bliss amidst the serene ambiance of Lofty Himalayan Peaks. It is a peaceful hill station decked with picturesque landscapes to delight your eyes and refresh your toil-weary soul. For a lazy weekend or for self-introspection, Mashobra’s calmness will be etched into your mind. It is also a paradise for adventurers. You can enjoy the thrills of trekking, climbing, fishing, rappelling etc.to make your sightseeing more interesting and memorable.

Top Sightseeing Attractions in Mashobra

• Reserve Forest Sanctuary
• WildFlower Hall
• Mahasu Devta Temple
• The Presidential Retreat
• Tattapani River
• Lakkar Bazaar
• Jakhu Temple

Top Things to Do in Mashobra

• Temple visits
• Nature walks
• Photography
• Wildlife sighting

Also Read: Paragliding in Himachal Pradesh

Chail- Serene Solitude

Chail is one of the most popular hill stations to visit in India. It used to be the summer capital of the state of patiala. Stunning verdant forests of Pine, Chir and Deodars, mesmerizing views of countryside, the royal grandeur which stands still in pride – Chail Palace, serene Sadhupul Lake which is a joyful escape to solace, exotic wildlife of Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, enchanting trekking trails of Gaura and Jhajjar that will take to amazing viewpoints, will absolutely make your day with full of fun and excitement. If you are planning a trip to Himachal, Chail is absolutely a must not miss place to soothe your soul.

Top Sightseeing Attractions in Chail

• Chail Wildlife Sanctuary
• Cricket Ground
• Kali Ka Tibba
• Siddh Baba ka Mandir
• Gurudwara Sahib
• Himalayan Nature Park
• Sadhupul Lake
• Chail Palace

Top Things to Do in Chail

• Shopping in Chail
• Temple Hopping
• Horseback Riding
• Wildlife Safari

Other Interesting Blogs to Read

• Best Winter Treks in Himachal
• Top Tourist Attractions in Shimla
• Best Places to Visit in Manali

Spiti Valley: Cold Desert, but Breathtaking Landscapes!

A paradise, which is home to jagged landscapes, numerous Buddhist monasteries, snow-capped mountains and pristine Spiti River – Spiti or Piti Valley is one of the ultimate destinations in Himachal Pradesh for travellers who want to explore some unspoilt natural beauty. Also known as ‘Little Tibet,’ Spiti Valley attracts several adventure-seekers from India as well as other countries to experience adventures like camping, trekking, hiking and paragliding.

Perched at a height of 2,745 metres, Spiti Valley is surrounded by Kullu, Kinnaur, Ladakh and Lahaul and you can reach here via Kunzum Pass.

Popular Sightseeing Attractions in Spiti Valley

• Chandratal Lake
• Kee Monastery
• Kunzum Pass
• Pin Valley National Park
• Suraj Tal Lake
• Dhankar Monastery

Top Things to Do in Spiti Valley

• Spot animals in Pin Valley National Park
• Hike to Kee nad Tabo Monastery
• Enjoy stargazing in Chandratal Lake
• Enjoy river rafting in Spiti and Pin Rivers
• Enjoy Atal Tunnel Sightseeing Tour in Himachal Pradesh

Sirmaur: Peach Bowl of India!

The southernmost district of Himachal Pradesh, Sirmaur is popularly known as the Peach Bowl of India because of the finest peaches grown here. It is home to several picturesque locations, which attract nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts from all over the world. Moreover, the pleasant weather throughout the year makes Sirmaur a famous tourist spot in Himachal.

One of the highest peaks of the state elevated at 3,646 metres, Churdhar is one of the top trekking attractions in Sirmaur. You can also visit the ancient lake, Renuka Ji, a beautiful village, Haripur Dham and Habban Valley in Sirmaur.

Popular Sightseeing Attractions in Sirmaur

• Habban Valley

Top Things to Do in Sirmaur

• Hike to Churdhar, one of the highest peaks of Himachal Pradesh
• Spot exotic flora and fauna of Himachal Pradesh at Renuka Lake
• Seek blessings at Maa Bhangayani Temple in Haripur
• Explore cultures at Habban Valley

Lahaul Valley: Winding Roads Take You to Snow-capped Landscapes!

The twin district of Spiti Valley, Lahaul is located at a distance of around 33 kilometres from Manali. The place is now easily reached through Atal Tunnel, which connects Lahaul with Manali. As per geographical area, Lahaul-Spiti is the largest district of Himachal Pradesh but due to its high altitude and extremely cold temperature, it’s the coldest one.

Lahaul is home to stunning views of snowy peaks, glaciers, rough mountains, hilly monasteries and waterfalls. Lakeside camping, stargazing at night, trekking to the monasteries atop hills and riding on the windy roads of Lahaul are some of the best things to do for travellers.

Popular Sightseeing Attractions in Lahaul Valley

• Kardang Monastery
• Shashur Gompa
• Tayul Monastery
• Tower Fort of Gondhla
• Gemur Monastery
• Mrikula Devi Temple
• Lahaul & Spiti Tribal Museum

Top Things to Do in Lahaul Valley

• Visit the biggest monastery of Lahaul, Kardang Monastery
• Hike to Shashur Gompa from Keylong
• Seek blessings in Mrikula Devi Temple
• Visit Tayul Monastery, which was founded in the 17th century
• Explore the old villages of Lahaul and Spiti in the Tribal Museum
• Top Winter Treks in Himachal Pradesh

Kullu: Valley of Gods!

Kullu is located in central Himachal and remains one of the popular tourist destinations in the country. The lush green meadows, idyllic villages on the bank of Parvati River, ancient temples, natural wonders like hot springs – everything make Kullu a pristine beauty to discover.

The open valleys surrounded by Pine and Deodar trees are home to numerous apple orchards, which make it popular in the world. For reasons like these and religious places like Manikaran and Mahadev Temple, it is always the sought-after destination for travellers after Manali.

Popular Sightseeing Attractions in Kullu

• Bhrigu Lake
• Bijli Mahadev Temple
• Jana Waterfall

Top Things to Do in Kullu

• Trek to Prashar Lake, Malana Village, Bhrigu Lake and Kheerganga
• Bathe in Manikaran hot springs
• Visit temples like Bijli Mahadev Temple, Gauri Shankar Temple, Manikaran and Raghunath Temple
• Top 20 Hill Stations in Himachal for Summer Vacations
• 10 Things You Can Do on Family Holidays in Himachal Pradesh
• Best Time to Visit Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh is a delightful tourist spot in India. For years, travellers have visited this state to discover its natural beauty, unspoilt culture and friendly hospitality of the Himachali people. Except for the months of extreme monsoon and winter, places in Himachal Pradesh can be explored at any time of the year.

Visiting Himachal in Summer Season

Himachal witnesses’ summer from April to June. Tourists flock here in summer due to the amazing weather. Activities like paragliding, camping, river rafting and many more can be experienced this time.

Visiting Himachal in Monsoon Season

From July to September, Himachal Pradesh witnesses monsoon season. It’s the off-season and the number of tourists is lower compared to the other two seasons. Trekking, hiking and camping cannot be done during the monsoon due to extreme showers. However, one can enjoy the fresh looks of urban areas at this time.

Visiting Himachal in Winter Season

Winter is the longest in Himachal Pradesh; starts from October till March. The mountains and valleys get covered in snow and the waterfalls become frozen. In some areas, roads get closed due to heavy snowfall. However, Himachal should be visited in winter once in a lifetime if you can tolerate the cold and want to explore the surreal beauty it becomes. The clear sky, snowy peaks and windy roads lead to numerous activities like skiing, ice skating, hiking and many more.

• Chitkul- The Most Scenic & Remotest Village in Himachal You Must Visit

A Trip to Kinnaur to See Another Paradisiacal Side of Himachal Pradesh

Go, explore and appreciate the beauty of these 12 places in Himachal Pradesh. Some of them are offbeat ones, while others are popular tourist destinations.

Tell us what you think of this blog.

If you have visited any of these places, we would like to know what about it appealed to you the most.

Important Himachal Tourism Resources

• Complete Himachal Travel & Tourism Guide

Travel Guides: Shimla Tourism | Kullu Manali Tourism | Chamba Tourism | Dalhousie Tourism | Dharamshala Tourism | Khajjiar Tourism | Chail Tourism

Tour Packages: Himachal Tours | Shimla Tour Packages | Kullu Manali Tours | Dharamshala Tour Packages

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Disclaimer: This content is written by our team of expert Travel Writers with deep research. In case you find any incorrect information or missing information, please do send your valuable inputs at [email protected]. We will update the content as soon as possible with respect to your inputs.

We do not take credit for some of the licenced paid images used in our blogs, whether from Google Images, Fotolia & Shutterstock. All such images are the copyrights of their respective owners and we try to provide credit for them wherever we can. If, however, any copyright image has been used on our blog, the concerned person can either mail us directly to remove the image or provide credit to whomsoever the image may belong to.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. what are some of the best places in himachal pradesh that you should visit with friends.

Some of the best places in Himachal Pradesh that you should visit with friends are Manali, Dharamshala, Tabo and Nako.

Q. Which offbeat tourist places should I visit in Himachal Pradesh?

A few offbeat tourist places that you should visit in Himachal Pradesh are Tabo, Kangra, Marhi and Tosh.

Q. What is the best time to visit Himachal Pradesh?

The best time to visit Himachal Pradesh is February to June. Plan a trip during the winters, between the months of October and February to enjoy skiing and ice skating.

Q. Which tourist places in Himachal Pradesh are popular among the tourists during winters?

Khajjiar, Triund, Mcleodganj and Kufri are some of the tourist places in Himachal Pradesh which are popular among the tourists during winters.

Published: 13 Sep, 2022

About the author

Vishwajit Sharma

Writing, for me, is an artistic expression of the countless thoughts flooding my mind. For now, travel content writing is what keeps me going! In my spare time, I like nothing better than immersing myself in a book, along with a cuppa! A classic movie helps too! I define traveling as a process of self-discovery. Hailing from Darjeeling, my ultimate desire is to escape to the hills, with the mountain air and solitude as my constant companions!

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Himachal Tour Packages

Compare himachal pradesh tours & packages from top travel agents.

Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh

Things to do in himachal pradesh, why to buy himachal tour package , how many days are enough to visit himachal pradesh, best time to visit himachal pradesh, how to reach himachal pradesh .

• Shimla: Shimla has its own domestic airport, the Jubbarhatti Airport (IATA: SLV), located about 23 kilometers from the city center. It offers limited flights from major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.
• Kullu-Manali: The Bhuntar Airport (IATA: KUU) serves Kullu and Manali regions, located approximately 10 kilometers from Kullu town. It operates flights from Delhi and Chandigarh.
• Pathankot: For travelers coming from other regions of India or abroad, the Pathankot Airport (IATA: IXP) is a suitable option. It is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi and Mumbai.
• Chandigarh: The Chandigarh International Airport (IATA: IXC) is the major entry point to Himachal Pradesh. It offers both domestic and international flights, connecting to several Indian cities and select international destinations.
• For international travelers, the nearest major international airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi. From Delhi or Chandigarh, you can easily reach Himachal Pradesh via road or take a connecting flight to Shimla, Kullu, or Pathankot.
• The nearest broad-gauge railway station to most parts of Himachal Pradesh is in Chandigarh (CDG) or Ambala (UMB), both well-connected to major cities in India.
• For Shimla, the narrow-gauge Kalka-Shimla Railway offers a scenic train journey from Kalka (KLK) to Shimla.
• Chandigarh: The major entry point to Himachal Pradesh, well-connected to major cities like Delhi and Jaipur.
• Pathankot: For travelers coming from Jammu and Kashmir or northern Punjab.
• Delhi: The national capital is well-connected to Himachal Pradesh through NH44 and NH5.
• Some popular bus routes include Delhi to Manali, Delhi to Shimla, and Chandigarh to Dharamshala.

Popular Himachal Packages

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148 Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages Found

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Best Tour Package in India: Shimla Kullu Manali

5 Nights / 6 Days

Delhi(0N) → Shimla(2N) → Kullu(0N) → Manali(3N)

₹ 23,099* per person

₹ 23,099*

per adult on twin sharing

Manali Volvo Tour Package - Excursion to Solang Valley

3 Nights / 4 Days

Delhi(0N) → Manali(3N) → Kullu (0N)

₹ 15,999* per person

₹ 15,999*

Relaxing Manali Getaway for 4 Nights

4 Nights / 5 Days

₹ 20,999* per person

₹ 20,999*

Expert Choice

Delhi Shimla Manali Dharamshala Tour Package

6 Nights / 7 Days

Delhi(0N) → Shimla(1N) → Manali(2N) → Dharamshala(1N) → Dalhousie(2N)

₹ 26,450* per person

₹ 26,450*

Not sure which package to pick for Himachal Pradesh?

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Exquisite Ladakh Adventure - 7 Nights/8 Days

7 Nights / 8 Days

Manali(1N) → Sarchu(1N) → Leh(2N) → Nubra Valley(1N) → Pangong Lake(1N) → Leh(1N)

₹ 45,100* per person

₹ 45,100*

Beautiful Shimla Manali With Amritsar Tour Package

Shimla(2N) → Manali(3N) → Amritsar(2N)

₹ 33,999* per person

₹ 33,999*

Trending Now

Himachal Pradesh Itinerary: Dalhousie, Dharamshala, Shimla & Manali

8 Nights / 9 Days

Shimla (2N) → Manali (3N) → Dharamshala (1N) → Mcleodganj(0N) → Dalhousie (2N)

₹ 43,500* per person

₹ 43,500*

Shimla Manali Package from Delhi

Delhi(0N) → Shimla(2N) → Manali(3N)

₹ 23,450* per person

₹ 23,450*

Leh Ladakh Manali Tour Package with Kargil & Srinagar

13 Nights / 14 Days

Srinagar(1N) → Kargil(1N) → Leh(5N) → Pangong Lake(1N) → Nubra Valley(1N) → Tso Moriri(1N) → Manali(2N)

₹ 100,519* per person

₹ 100,519*

4 Night 5 Days Shimla Manali Package- Toy Train Ride

Chandigarh(1N) → Manali(2N) → Shimla(1N)

₹ 17,400* per person

₹ 17,400*

6 Nights Himachal Tour Package with Triund Trek

Shimla(2N) → Manali(2N) → Mcleodganj(2N)

₹ 30,000* per person

₹ 30,000*

Shimla Honeymoon Package for Couples

Delhi(0) → Shimla(4N)

₹ 19,950* per person

₹ 19,950*

Leh Ladakh Summer Package with Turtuk and Pangong Tso

9 Nights / 10 Days

Manali(1N) → Sarchu(1N) → Leh(2N) → Nubra Valley(1N) → Pangong Lake(1N) → Rumtse(1N) → Jispa(1N) → Manali(1N)

₹ 49,250* per person

₹ 49,250*

5 Nights 6 Days Himachal Tour Package

Delhi(0N) → Manali(2N) → Tirthan Valley(3N)

₹ 24,800* per person

₹ 24,800*

Himachal Pradesh Tour Package with Manali,Dharamshala & Dalhousie - Excursion to Solang Valley

Manali(3N) → Dharamshala (1N) → Dalhousie (2N) → Amritsar (1N)

₹ 36,750* per person

₹ 36,750*

Himachal Pradesh Tour Package for Couple - Professional Photoshoot Included

₹ 27,500* per person

₹ 27,500*

Bir Billing Adventure - Paragliding

2 Nights / 3 Days

₹ 11,590* per person

₹ 11,590*

Shimla Manali Honeymoon Package Tour Duration 5 Nights 6 Days

Chandigarh(0N) → Shimla(2N) → Manali(3N)

₹ 26,999* per person

₹ 26,999*

Kinnaur Spiti Tour Package: Short Trek to Kamru Fort

Chandigarh(0N) → Narkanda(1N) → Sangla(1N) → Kalpa(1N) → Tabo(1N) → Kaza(2N) → Chandertal(1N) → Manali(1N)

₹ 51,900* per person

₹ 51,900*

Beautiful Kasauli Shimla Manali Tour Package

Chandigarh (0N) → Kasauli(2N) → Shimla(2N) → Manali(3N)

₹ 36,500* per person

₹ 36,500*

Weekend Exclusive Tour Package to Tirthan Valley

Delhi(0N) → Aut(1N) → Larji(2N)

₹ 15,950* per person

₹ 15,950*

Kasol 2 Night 3 Days Itinerary: Delhi to Kasol by Volvo

Delhi(0N) → Kasol(2N)

₹ 11,599* per person

₹ 11,599*

Mystic Manali, Kheerganga & Kasol Trek Tour

Manali (2N) → Kasol (3N)

₹ 31,500* per person

₹ 31,500*

Best of Himachal Offbeat Destinations Tour Package

Chandigarh(0N) → Shimla(1N) → Sangla(1N) → Kalpa(2N) → Sarahan(1N) → Shimla(1N)

₹ 31,700* per person

₹ 31,700*

Agra Family Tour Package with Shimla Manali

Shimla(2N) → Manali(3N) → Delhi(1N) → Agra(1N)

₹ 35,999* per person

₹ 35,999*

Unforgettable Manali Honeymoon

Manali(4N) → Kullu(0N)

₹ 20,199* per person

₹ 20,199*

Delhi to Shimla, Kullu and Manali in Sedan Car

₹ 32,500* per person

₹ 32,500*

Dalhousie Tour with Khajjiar: Switzerland of India Package

Delhi(0N) → Dalhousie(2N) → Khajjiar(0N)

₹ 11,499* per person

₹ 11,499*

Dalhousie & Amritsar Family Tour Package

Dalhousie(3N) → Khajjiar(0N) → Amritsar(1N)

₹ 20,500* per person

₹ 20,500*

Shimla Tour Package 2 Nights 3 Days for Couples

Chandigarh(0N) → Shimla(1N) → Kufri(0N) → Mashobra(0) → Naldehra(0N) → Shimla(1N)

₹ 11,000* per person

₹ 11,000*

Bir Billing Trekking & Camping Tour Package

Delhi(0N) → Bir Billing(1N)

Lahaul Spiti Tour Package: 10 Nights 11 Days

10 Nights / 11 Days

Chandigarh(0N) → Shimla(1N) → Sarahan(1N) → Sangla(1N) → Kalpa(1N) → Tabo(1N) → Kaza(2N) → Chandratal Lake (1N) → Manali(1N) → Mandi (1N)

₹ 58,800* per person

₹ 58,800*

Exotic Kinnaur with Shimla Tour Package

Chandigarh(0N) → Shimla(1N) → Sangla(2N) → Kalpa(2N)

₹ 25,700* per person

₹ 25,700*

Romantic Honeymoon Package for Dharamshala, Dalhousie & Khajjiar

Delhi(0N) → Dharamshala(2N) → Dalhousie(2N) → Khajjiar(0N) → Delhi(0N)

₹ 19,500* per person

₹ 19,500*

Dharmshala Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages

Delhi(0N) → Dharamshala(1N) → Mcleodganj(0N) → Dalhousie(2N)

₹ 14,500* per person

₹ 14,500*

Weekend Shimla Trip by Volvo

Delhi (0N) → Shimla(3N) → Kufri (0N)

₹ 14,999* per person

₹ 14,999*

Dharmshala, Dalhousie and Amritsar Tour

Pathankot(0N) → Dharamshala(2N) → Dalhousie(2N) → Amritsar(1N)

₹ 23,599* per person

₹ 23,599*

Dharamshala & Dalhousie Tour Package

Dalhousie(2N) → Dharamshala(1N) → Palampur(1N)

Dharamshala Weekend Getaway Tour Package from Delhi

Delhi(0N) → Dharamshala(2N) → Mcleodganj (0N)

₹ 11,500* per person

₹ 11,500*

8 Nights 9 Days Himachal Package: Shimla, Manali, Dalhousie & More

Delhi(0N) → Shimla(2N) → Manali(3N) → Dharamshala(2N) → Dalhousie(1N)

₹ 44,200* per person

₹ 44,200*

₹ 25,999* per person

₹ 25,999*

Simply Stunning Dharamshala Tour Package

Dharamshala(1N) → Palampur(1N)

Himachal Tour Packages from Delhi by Volvo

Delhi(0N) → Manali(3N) → Shimla(3N)

₹ 30,900* per person

₹ 30,900*

Tour Package of Himachal Pradesh - Manali Shimla with Chandigarh

Delhi(0N) → Shimla(2N) → Kufri(0N) → Manali(3N) → Solang(0N) → Chandigarh(1N)

₹ 30,898* per person

₹ 30,898*

Shimla Tour Package for 5 Days : Budget Tour by Volvo

Delhi(0N) → Manali(3N) → Kullu(0N) → Naggar(0N) → Shimla(1N)

₹ 20,850* per person

₹ 20,850*

Couple Manali Tour Package - 3 Nights 4 Days

Delhi(0N) → Manali(3N) → Kullu(0N) → Manikaran(0N)

₹ 15,900* per person

₹ 15,900*

Romantic Kullu Manali Shimla Volvo Tour Package

Delhi(1N) → Manali(3N) → Kullu(0N) → Shimla(2N)

Adventurous Spiti Bike Tour

Chandigarh(0N) → Manali(1N) → Kaza(2N) → Chandratal(1N) → Manali(1N)

₹ 26,090* per person

₹ 26,090*

Dharamshala - Bir Billing - Sonipat Tour Package

Dharamshala(2N) → Bir BIling(1N)

₹ 14,250* per person

₹ 14,250*

Best Spiti Valley Tour Package on Budget

Manali(0N) → Kaza(4N)

₹ 21,599* per person

₹ 21,599*

Latest Reviews for Himachal Pradesh

Highly recommend.

Suraj's Trip to Amritsar, Dalhousie, Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh

(Written on 15 Apr, 2024)

Sanjai's Trip to Kullu, Manali, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh

(Written on 21 Oct, 2023)

Trip for Dharamshala , Dalhousie & Khajjiar

Shonali's Trip to Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh

(Written on 29 Sep, 2023)

Kullu Manali tour

Dhiraj Kumar's Trip to Kullu, Manali, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh

(Written on 09 Jul, 2023)

Tour to shimla,kasauli, chandigard, agra, jaipur

Surayya's Trip to Agra, Jaipur, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh

(Written on 03 Jan, 2019)

A trip to remember for lifetime ( Kashmir)

SANJAY's Trip to Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir

(Written on 09 Nov, 2018)

Popular destinations in Himachal Pradesh for holiday packages

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Himachal packages for your need.

Himachal Trekking Packages

Starting from ₹ 3,500

Himachal Honeymoon Packages

Starting from ₹ 3,996

Shimla Kullu Manali Tour Packages

Starting from ₹ 7,000

Himachal Pradesh Packages From Different Locations

Himachal Packages from Chandigarh

Starting from ₹ 8,000

Himachal Pradesh Package from Bangalore

Starting from ₹ 18,250

Himachal Pradesh Package from Kolkata

Starting from ₹ 14,250

Himachal Honeymoon Package from Delhi

Starting from ₹ 9,000

Himachal Pradesh Package from Delhi

Starting from ₹ 6,250

Himachal Pradesh Packages from Mumbai

Packages with Himachal

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Top Places in Himachal Pradesh for honeymoon packages

Manali Honeymoon Packages

Starting from ₹ 7,499

Shimla Honeymoon Packages

Shimla Manali Honeymoon Package

Dalhousie Honeymoon Packages

Starting from ₹ 6,999

Mcleodganj Honeymoon Packages

Starting from ₹ 5,000

Dharamshala Honeymoon Packages

FAQs on Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages

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• Pick your travel dates.
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• Choose your destinations.
• Craft an itinerary.
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• Be altitude-ready if needed.
• Stay informed and travel responsibly.
• Stay flexible and embrace spontaneity.

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Welcome to Himachal Pradesh! We've put heart and soul, into this website, so you can see for yourself how we Himachalis do life and holidays. Because we are (in case you didn't know) some of the happiest people in the world. And we just want you to be happy too.

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Some people believe we are a Wikipedia to the beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh! We share with you places, stories, people lifestyle and all that you need to know about our Himachal Pradesh, one day at a time.

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Spiti Valley

₹11,999 / per person.

Looking for exceptional deals on Spiti Valley road trip packages? Book your escape today!

Bir Billing

₹3,999 / per person.

Experience the freedom of flight from amazing heights with paragliding. Book your trip today!

₹1,499 / Per person

Trek on one of the most beautiful landscapes in Himachal Pradesh – an experience you’ll never forget!

Kareri Lake Trek

₹3,499 / per person.

Kareri lake trek one of the most spectacular weekend gateway destinations in Dhauladhar.

Road Trip To Spiti Valley

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Popular Destinations in Himachal Pradesh

Explore Himachal's vibrant, colourful villages and beautiful landscapes with your own tailored vacation package. Find your trip now!

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Dharamshala

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Top Reviews for Insta Himachal

What an incredible experience we had! The trip was perfectly organized, the accommodations great, the food fantastic, especially Kangri Dham!!

Sanjeev Thakur

Himachal is a beautiful state, with lots of things to do and see, and the local people are really friendly and welcoming. Highly recommended!

Shweta Sharma

Insta Himachal did a great job in taking our specific travel wishes and making them reality. Thank you Insta Himachal!

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A Journey Bursting With Love and Magic! The Complete Shimla-Spiti-Manali Honeymoon Package

• By Insta Himachal

So here’s the old-age question- Are you a mountain person .

Himalayan Romance: The Ultimate Shimla Manali Dharamshala Honeymoon Package!

“Jahan kahin tha henna ko khilna henna vahin pr mehak rahi.

Answering the Call of Romance: The Dharamshala Bir Honeymoon Package Awaits!

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Shimla manali kasol tour packages - a unique experience.

Located in the Himalayas, the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh is replete with snowy mountains, lush forests, hilly terrains, and numerous water bodies. From the surreal terrain of Manali Tour Package to hill stations in Kully Manali Valley , Himachal is like a cupboard full of boxes waiting to be explored. The Shimla Kullu Manali Honeymoon tour packages are highly popular in North India because of the scenic beauty and pleasant climate of the state. The ‘Abode of Snow’ is known for its adventure activities, religious centers, colonial heritage, and romantic getaways. Hence, opting for Himachal Tour Package is a true delight for every kind of tourist, whether they are adventure enthusiasts, explorers, nature lovers. Check the below list of our tour packages for Shimla, Manali, Dharmshala & Dalhousie that are affordable and can be customized according basis the interest and preferences of each tourist. Browse Manali Packages from different Indian Cities like: Manali Packages from Delhi, Manali Packages from Mumbai, Manali Packages from Bangalore, Manali Packages from Hyderabad, Manali Packages from Chennnai, Manali Packages from Ahmedabad, Manali Packages from Kolkata. Also browse popular Manali Theme Packages like Manali honeymoon packages, Manali family packages, Manali adventure packages, Manali Tour Packages, Manali tourism, 4 Nights Manali Packages, 2 Nights Manali Packages.

Manali Tour Packages by Volvo/Car

Tour type: customizable 4nights / 5days.

Sightseeing

Package Inclusion:

• 2 Star Hotel on Twin Sharing
• Breakfast and Dinner
• Welcome Drink (Non Alcoholic) On Arrival
• 04 Nights & 05 Days Hotel Stay In Respective Room
• 01 Session of Candle Light Dinner
• 10% Discount on Additional Food, Beverages and Laundry
• Child below 5 Yrs. Complimentary Sharing With Parents
• One Half Day Local Manali Sightseeing
• One Full Day Snow Point / Rohtang pass Sightseeing / Solang Valley
• Pick Up and Drop From Volvo Bus Stand
• Delhi – Manali – Delhi Transfer by AC Luxury Volvo Bus
• All Applicable Taxes.

Manali Honeymoon Package by Volvo/Car

Tour type: customizable 5nights / 6days.

• 3 Star Hotel on Twin Sharing
• Meal Plan Breakfast & Dinner Pure veg
• 05 Nights & 06 Days Hotel Stay In Respective Room
• Morning Tea
• Fresh Fruit Basket On Arrival
• Evening Tea With Cookies
• Flowers Bed Decoration
• Hot Kesar Badam Milk once During The Stay
• Honeymoon Cake once During The Stay
• One Full Day Snow Point / Rohtang pass Sightseeing
• One Full Day Kullu – Manikaran Sightseeing Sightseeing

Shimla Manali Tour Package by Volvo/Car

Tour type: customizable 6nights / 7days.

• 06 Nights & 07 Days Hotel Stay In Respective Room
• 03 Nights Stay in Manali
• 03 Nights Stay in Shimla
• Welcome Drink (Non Alcoholic)
• Child below 5 Yrs Complimentary Sharing With Parents
• One Full Day Snow Point / Rohtang Pass Sightseeing
• One Full Day Kullu – Manikaran Sightseeing
• One Full Day Sightseeing Of Shimla and Kufri
• Luxury AC Volvo Bus Ticket for Delhi to Manali
• Deluxe Bus Ticket for Manali to Shimla
• Luxury AC Volvo Bus Ticket for Shimla to Delhi

Manali Weekend Package by Volvo/Car

Unseen Dharamshala Dalhousie Tour by Volvo/Car

• 3 Breakfast & 3 Dinner
• 05 Nights & 06 Days 3 Star Hotel Stay
• 2 Days Dharamshala Sightseeing
• 3 Days Dalhousie Sightseeing
• Delhi – Dharamshal - Dalhousie – Delhi Transfer by AC Luxury Volvo Bus

Shimla Narkanda Off Beat Tour Package by Volvo/Car

• 02 Nights Stay in Shimla
• 02 Nights Stay in Narkanda
• One Half Day Local Shimla Sightseeing
• One Full Day Snow Point / Kufri Sightseeing
• One Full Day Narkanda Sightseeing
• Luxury AC Volvo Bus Ticket for Delhi to Shimla

Jibhi Tirthan Valley Tour Package by Volvo/Car

Tour type: customizable 3nights / 4days.

• Meal Plan Breakfast & Dinner Veg/NonVeg
• 03 Nights & 04 Days Hotel Stay In Respective Room
• 02 Nights Stay in Tirthan valley
• 01 Nights Stay in Jibhi
• One Full Day Tirthan Valley Sightseeing
• One Full Day Fishing Point Sightseeing
• One Half Day Jibhi Sightseeing

Complete Himachal Tour Packages by Car

Tour type: customizable 8nights / 9days.

• Meal Plan Breakfast & Dinner
• 08 Nights & 09 Days Hotel Stay In Respective Room
• Breakfast and Dinner in Hotels
• Complimentary Use of Hotel Recreational Facility
• All Land Transfer and Sightseeing by Ac Car as Per Itinerary
• Driver Allowances, Toll/Parking, Fuel Charges and Permit Charges

Himachal+Golden Temple Tour Package by Car

Tour type: customizable 9nights / 10days.

• 09 Nights & 10 Days Hotel Stay In Respective Room

Kasol Kheerganga Trek Package by Volvo

• 3 Star Hotel/Camp on Twin Sharing
• 03 Nights Hotel Stay In Respective Room
• 01 Nights Stay in Luxury Camp Site
• Sightseeing of Natural Scenic Beauty, Waterfall, Green Meadows, Parvati River
• Mountains, Tall Pine Forest, Streams, Deep Gorge and Natural Hot Water Springs
• Activity - Trekking, Camping, Photography
• Highest Point : Kheerganga Meadows (3938 mtrs)
• Special Discount for Groups

Manali + Kasol Tour Packages by Volvo

• 02 Nights Stay In Kasol Hotel/Camp
• 03 Nights Stay in Manali Hotel

Kasol, Camping in Tosh + Kheerganga Trek by Volvo

• Luxury Camp on Twin Sharing Basis
• 03 Nights Stay In Kasol Hotel/Camp
• 02 Nights Stay in Tosh Campsite
• One Half Day Local Kasol Sightseeing
• One Full Day Kasol Kheerganga Trek, Parvati River Sightseeing
• One Half Day Tosh Village Sightseeing & Camping
• Activity - Trekking, Camping, Photography, Bonfire

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• 101-B, Jaina Tower-II, Distt. Centre,
• Janak Puri, New-Delhi-85.

Gujarat Office Address:

• 26, Shaktikunnj Society, B/H
• Sambuja Hospital, Bapunagar,
• Ahemdabad 380024.

Mumbai Office Address:

• Shop No. 1, Yashovardhan CHS,
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• NAVI MUMBAI, 400705

101-B, Jaina Tower-II, Distt. Centre, Janak Puri, New-Delhi-85

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Browse Himachal Pradesh Packages from different Indian Cities like: Himachal Pradesh Packages from Delhi, Himachal Pradesh Packages from Mumbai, Himachal Pradesh Packages from Bangalore, Himachal Pradesh Packages from Hyderabad, Himachal Pradesh Packages from Chennnai, Himachal Pradesh Packages from Ahmedabad, Himachal Pradesh Packages from Kolkata. Also browse popular Himachal Pradesh Theme Packages like Himachal Pradesh honeymoon packages, Himachal Pradesh family packages, Himachal Pradesh adventure packages, Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages, Himachal Pradesh tourism, 4 Nights Himachal Pradesh Packages, 2 Nights Himachal Pradesh Packages. Kasol Tour Package, Kheerganga Trek, Kasol Tosh Village Tour Package, Manali with Kasol Tour Package, Manali Tour Packages, Best Manali Tour Package, Manali Cheap Tour Package, Manali Trekking Packages, Delhi Manali Packages, Packages From Delhi To Manali, Manali Packages For Family, Manali Tours, Manali Vacation Packages, Delhi Manali Tour Packages, Delhi To Manali Tour Packages, Delhi To Manali Tour Package By Car, Delhi To Manali Tour Package By Volvo, Shimla Manali Tour Packages, Manali Trip From Delhi, Manali Tour Packages From Delhi, Manali Volvo Tour Package, Tour Packages From Delhi To Manali, Delhi To Manali Trvael Packages, Delhi Kullu Manali Volvo Package, Kullu Manali Tour Package From Delhi, Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages, Himachal Pradesh Packages, Honeymoon Packages in Himachal, Himachal Tours, Tour Package for Himachal, Complete Himachal Honeymoon Packages, Himachal Honeymoon Packages, Himachal Holiday Packages, Manali Couple Packages, Kullu Manlai Packages, Kullu Manali Tour Packages, Honeymoon Kullu Manali Tour Packages, Shimla Manali Packages, Kullu Manali Packages, Best Honeymoon Packages

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Himachal Pradesh HC Schedules Chief Parliamentary Secretaries' Hearing For May 8-9

Additionally, the Advocate General clarified that the membership of Chief Parliamentary Secretaries as MLAs cannot be disqualified in this case. He cited a precedent set by the Election Commission in a previous case, which provided clarity on this matter.

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The hearing regarding the appointment of Chief Parliamentary Secretaries, which commenced on Monday, has now been rescheduled for May 8 and 9 by the Himachal Pradesh High Court. This decision was made by a double bench comprising Justice Vivek Thakur and Justice Bipin Chandra Negi. The hearing, which took place over three hours on Wednesday, followed consecutive sessions on Monday and Tuesday.

Anoop Kumar Ratna, the Advocate General of the Himachal Pradesh High Court, requested additional time for the state government to present its case. The government aims to engage senior legal and constitutional experts to represent them in this matter. Responding to this request, the court adjourned the proceedings to the specified dates.

Advocate General Ratna emphasized that the state government is keen on involving two senior lawyers with expertise in constitutional matters to represent the court. He affirmed the government’s belief that the appointment of Chief Parliamentary Secretaries was conducted in accordance with the law.

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Moreover, Ratna highlighted the fact that the main petitioner, Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Satpal Singh Satti, had previously served as a Chief Parliamentary Secretary in the former Dhumal-led BJP government. He pointed out the irony of Satti now challenging the legality of the same law he once benefited from.

The rescheduling of the hearing reflects the complexity and significance of the legal and constitutional issues involved in the appointment of Chief Parliamentary Secretaries in Himachal Pradesh. As the case progresses, it will be closely watched by stakeholders and legal experts alike.

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Himachal Pradesh High Court sets age limit for adventure sports like rafting and kayaking amid safety concerns

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Created : Apr 20, 2024, 17:55 IST

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Himachal Pradesh High Court directs age limit for kayaking, stresses Fitness Certificate. Decision to enhance safety after tourist's death. Rafting spots include Beas, Satluj, Ravi, Chenab, Spiti River.

Himachal Pradesh High Court directs age limit for kayaking, stresses Fitness Certificate. Decision to enhance safety after tourist's death. Rafting spots include Beas, Satluj, Ravi, Chenab, Spiti River. Read less

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Himachal Pradesh High Court directs age limit for kayaking, stresses Fitness Certificate. Decision to enhance safety after tourist's death. Rafting spots include Beas, Satluj, Ravi, Chenab, Spiti Rive...