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Himalayan Haven: 17 Mesmerizing Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh

• By Nikhil Singh
• Nov 15, 2023

Table of Contents

Introduction

Nestled in the lap of the mighty Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh stands as a testament to nature’s grandeur and cultural richness. This northern Indian state is a haven for travellers seeking adventure, tranquillity, and a glimpse into diverse traditions. Join us on a virtual journey as we explore 17 mesmerizing places to visit in Himachal Pradesh a Himalayan haven.

Best Places to  Visit in Himachal Pradesh

1. shimla: queen of the hills.

Our adventure begins in the capital city,  Shimla , known as the Queen of the Hills. As you stroll along Ridge Road and The Mall, you’ll be captivated by the colonial architecture that echoes the town’s historical significance. Visit the iconic Christ Church, and don’t miss the serene Jakhu Temple, perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

2. Manali: Adventure and Serenity

Moving further into the heart of Himachal, we arrive at  Manali , a destination that seamlessly blends adventure and serenity. Thrill-seekers can indulge in activities at Solang Valley, including paragliding and skiing. The majestic Rohtang Pass, adorned with breathtaking landscapes, beckons those seeking a rendezvous with nature. Old Manali, with its charm and Hadimba Devi Temple, adds a touch of spirituality to the experience.

3. Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj: Tibetan Culture and Tranquility

Venturing into the Kangra Valley, we explore Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj, a haven for Tibetan culture and tranquillity. McLeod Ganj, the residence of the Dalai Lama, boasts the Namgyal Monastery and the Tsuglagkhang Complex, providing a spiritual retreat. The Bhagsu Waterfall and Triund Trek offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure, while Dharamshala itself exudes a serene ambience with the Dal Lake and Tibetan cultural influences.

4. Kullu: Valley of Gods

Moving into the Kullu Valley, we discover the enchanting Kullu, often referred to as the Valley of Gods. The Kullu Dussehra festival, marked by cultural fervour and historical significance, is a unique experience. The Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, beckons nature lovers, and the adventurous can brave the rapids of the Beas River through thrilling rafting experiences.

5. Kasol: Hippie Haven in Parvati Valley

Our journey takes a detour to the laid-back vibes of  Kasol  in the Parvati Valley, a paradise for backpackers and free spirits. Chalal and Kheerganga Treks promise breathtaking views and a communion with nature. Embrace the vibrant hippie culture, explore the Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, and relax in the soothing hot springs for a truly rejuvenating experience.

6. Chamba: Land of Temples

Heading towards the western part of Himachal, we arrive at Chamba, a town steeped in history and spirituality. The Lakshmi Narayan Temple and Bhuri Singh Museum showcase the rich cultural heritage. Chamera Lake and Chaugan offer picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes, while the traditional Himachali architecture adds to the town’s charm.

7. Dalhousie: Scottish and Victorian Influences

The next stop on our journey is the charming town of Dalhousie, where Scottish and Victorian influences still resonate. Khajjiar, often referred to as the Mini Switzerland of India, is a must-visit with its lush meadows and dense forests. Explore the Dainkund Peak and Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, and take a stroll through Dalhousie’s colonial architecture, including the picturesque St. John’s Church.

8. Manikaran: Pilgrimage and Hot Springs

Our journey takes a spiritual turn as we explore Manikaran, nestled in the Parvati Valley. The Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, a place of immense religious significance, attracts pilgrims from far and wide. The hot springs, believed to have healing properties, offer a unique bathing experience, and the riverside camping amidst scenic beauty provides a tranquil escape.

9. Spiti Valley: The Cold Desert

For the adventurous souls, Spiti Valley beckons with its surreal landscapes and ancient monastic culture. Key Monastery and Tabo Monastery stand as testaments to the region’s spiritual richness. Chandratal Lake, nestled amidst the mountains, and the Kunzum Pass, connecting the Kullu and Lahaul Valleys, offer a glimpse into Spiti’s unique charm.

10. Palampur: Tea Gardens and Scenic Landscapes

Our journey takes us to Palampur, a hidden gem surrounded by tea gardens and scenic landscapes. Immerse yourself in the art and culture at Andretta Artist’s Village, and take a leisurely stroll through the tea gardens, where the Palampur Cooperative Tea Factory stands as a testament to the town’s colonial legacy. Neugal Khad, with its serene river views, offers a perfect setting for peaceful walks.

11. Narkanda: Skiing and Apple Orchards

As we ascend to the heights of Himachal, we reach Narkanda, known for its skiing slopes and apple orchards. Hatu Peak, with its panoramic views, is a delight for nature enthusiasts. During winter, Narkanda transforms into a snowy wonderland, attracting skiing enthusiasts, while Stokes Farm showcases the region’s apple orchards in their full glory.

12. Bir Billing: Paragliding Capital of India

Adventure seekers can’t miss the thrill of Bir Billing, the Paragliding Capital of India. Soar through the skies and witness the breathtaking landscapes below. The Bir Tibetan Colony and Chokling Monastery add a touch of culture to the adventure, while the natural beauty of Billing provides ample opportunities for trekking and exploration.

13. Tirthan Valley: A Hidden Gem

Our journey extends to the hidden gem of  Tirthan Valley , a pristine haven for nature lovers. The Great Himalayan National Park in Tirthan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering trekking trails that lead to secluded meadows and alpine forests. The serenity of the valley, coupled with the Tirthan River’s melodious flow, creates an idyllic atmosphere for those seeking offbeat experiences.

14. Malana: Mystical Village in Parvati Valley

For those intrigued by mysticism and ancient traditions, a visit to Malana in the Parvati Valley is a must. Known for its distinct cultural practices and belief in Greek ancestry, Malana is often referred to as the “Little Greece of India.” The trek to Malana is as enchanting as the village itself, surrounded by towering peaks and untamed beauty.

15. Barot: Picturesque Hamlet

Nestled amidst the Dhauladhar Range, Barot is a picturesque hamlet that unfolds like a storybook setting. Surrounded by dense forests and terraced fields, Barot offers a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquillity. The Uhl River, with its crystal-clear waters, is ideal for angling, and the lush landscapes provide ample opportunities for leisurely walks.

16. Kangra: Historical and Artistic Hub

Kangra, with its historical significance and vibrant art scene, beckons art enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The Kangra Fort, one of the oldest forts in India, stands as a silent witness to centuries of history. The Kangra Art Museum showcases exquisite artefacts, paintings, and sculptures, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich artistic heritage.

17. Prashar Lake: A Serene Alpine Wonderland

The journey takes a serene turn as we reach Prashar Lake, a high-altitude alpine wonder surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The floating island within the lake adds a touch of mystique to the landscape. A trek to Prashar Lake, especially during winters when the surroundings are blanketed in snow, is a surreal experience that transports you to a fairy-tale realm.

Conclusion: Embrace the Himalayan Magic

With its 17 captivating places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, is not just a state on the map; it’s a testament to the magical allure of the Himalayas. Each place we’ve explored unveils a unique facet of this Himalayan haven, leaving an indelible mark on the soul of every traveller. Whether you find bliss in the spiritual vibes of Shimla, the adventurous spirit of Manali, or the tranquillity of Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh offers a symphony of experiences that resonate with the wanderer’s heart.

As you plan your journey through this diverse state, remember to immerse yourself not just in the landscapes but also in the local culture, savouring the flavours of Himachali cuisine and embracing the warmth of its people. Himachal Pradesh isn’t just a destination; it’s an invitation to unravel the mysteries of the Himalayas, to dance with the clouds, and to find solace in the embrace of nature. So, pack your bags, embark on this Himalayan odyssey, and let the magic of Himachal Pradesh weave its enchanting spell on you.

Nikhil Singh is the Founder and CEO of The Wanderer India. He establishes the company as a leading online platform for travel and adventure enthusiasts. Under his leadership, the company has grown significantly and has gained a reputation for providing high-quality content and services. In addition to his work with The Wanderer India, Nikhil is also the CEO of NV Rise, a media company that specializes in creating engaging content for online audiences.

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61 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh

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Often called the 'Queen of Hills', Shimla is a mesmerizing hill station in Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the top hill stations in India , and among the top Himachal tourist places . It is located about 112 km from Chandigarh, and 348 km from New Delhi. Among the top hill stations in Himachal , Shimla derives its name from 'Goddess Shyamala', an incarnation of Goddess Kali. Kali Bari Temple, Annandale, Vice Regal Lodge, Jakhu Temple / Jakhu Hill, The Mall, Tara Devi Temple, Christ Church, and Kalka - Shimla Railway are some of the best tourist places in Shimla . Besides being the ultimate summer retreat it remains an ideal spot for adventure sports. Tourists can go in for the various treks to the Kullu valley, indulge in trout fishing at the Pabbar River, try skiing at the Narkanda and Kufri, and play golf at Naldehra as part of Shimla holiday packages . It is regarded as one of the most beautiful places to visit near Chandigarh .

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Manali is a breathtakingly beautiful hill station nestled in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh near the northern end of the Kullu Valley. About 295 km from Chandigarh, and 545 km from Delhi, it is one of the top hill stations in Himachal , and among the top places to visit near Chandigarh . Renowned for its snow-covered mountains, scenic beauty, history, and culture, Manali is located at an altitude of 2050 m and is spread along the banks of the river Beas. Manali is named after the Hindu lawgiver Manu. Often referred to as the 'Valley of the Gods', Manali is one of the popular hill stations near Delhi . Naggar Castle, Hidimbi Devi Temple, and Rohtang Pass are among the must include places in Manali holiday packages . Manali also has many Buddhist monasteries that are worth visiting. Enfield point, Manali Gompa, Manu Temple, Naggar Castle, Nehru Kund and Zana Waterfalls are the other famous tourist places in Manali . Manali is also famous for adventure sports like skiing, hiking, mountaineering, Paragliding, rafting, kayaking, and mountain biking. Paragliding in Manali is an unforgettable experience.

3. Dalhousie

Located at an altitude of 1,970 m, Dalhousie is one of the famous hill stations in Himachal , and among the popular places to visit near Chandigarh . It is located about 319 km from Chandigarh, and 564 km from Delhi. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Dalhousie is located on the western edge of the Dhauladhar mountain range of the Himalayas. It is hill stations near Delhi , and among the best places to visit in Himachal . It was named after Lord Dalhousie, the then Viceroy of India, who established this town as a summer retreat in 1854. The beautiful and picturesque Dalhousie is spread around five hills, known as Katalagh, Potreyn, Bakrota, Terah, and Bhangora. Ganji Pahadi, Dainkund Peak, Khajjiar, Noorwood Paramdham, Rang Mahal, Bara Pathar Temple, Hariraya Temple, St. Patrick Church, Bakrota Hills, Satdhara Falls, Village Lohali, Kalatop, and Kalatop Forest, Panchpula, Subhash Baoli, and Salooni are the top tourist places in Dalhousie . Dalhousie also offers a lot of activities for nature lovers and adventurers as part of Dalhousie holiday packages .

4. Dharamshala

At an average altitude of 1,475 m above sea level, Dharamshala is a pristine hill station situated in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the best hill stations in Himachal Pradesh , and among the most famous places to visit near Delhi . It is about 234 km from Manali, 237 km from Shimla, and 486 km from Delhi. Often called the gateway to the Kangra valley, Dharamshala is the headquarters of Kangra district and among the must-include places in Himachal tour packages . In the year 1960, Dharamshala became a temporary headquarters to His Holiness Dalai Lama. Today, it is known as Little Lhasa or Dhasa, because of its large population of Tibetans and Buddhist Monasteries. The hill station of Dharamshala is covered by thick woods of oak and coniferous trees and it is enfolded on its three sides by the Dhauladhar ranges. Dharamshala packages have a lot to offer ranging from ancient temples, churches, and monasteries to museums and beautiful trekking trails. The ancient Chamunda Temple, Dalailama Temple, Namgyalma Stupa, Bhagsunath Temple, Triund Hill, Norbulingka Institute, Gyuto Monastery, and Indru Nag are some of the prime tourist places in Dharamshala .

At a distance of 40 km from Manali, 500 km from Delhi, 215 km from Shimla and 258 km from Chandigarh, Kullu is the capital town of Kullu district in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is located on the banks of the Beas River in Kullu Valley at an altitude of 1230 meters. Kullu Manali is one of the top summer resorts to visit as part of Himachal tour packages and among the wellknown honeymoon destination in India. Kullu is a broad open valley formed by the Beas River between Manali and Larji. This valley is famous for its temples, beauty and its majestic hills covered with Pine and Deodar Forest and sprawling Apple Orchards. Kullu was earlier known as Kulant pith meaning 'the ending point of inhabitable world'. The beautiful valley is also mentioned in epics like Ramayana, Mahabharata and Vishnu Purana. Chinese traveler Huien Tsang visited Kullu in 634 or 635 AD and described it as a region completely surrounded by mountains. The place had a stupa built by Asoka. In ancient days Kullu had several Buddhist monasteries. There were Hindu temples too and people of both faiths lived peacefully together. Kullu valley is the largest valley in Kullu district. The Beas River runs through the middle of the valley. It is also called the 'Valley of the Gods' or 'Dev Bhumi'. It connects with the Lahaul and Spiti valleys ...

Kasauli is a picturesque hill station in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. About 55 km from Chandigarh, 68 km from Shimla, and 306 km from Delhi, it is one of the top hill stations near Chandigarh , and among the Himachal tour packages . Situated in the foothills of the Dhauladhar Ranges of the lower Himalayas, Kasauli is a cantonment town of the Indian Army, having an elevation of 1,900 m above sea level. One of the scenic places to visit near Delhi , the town is famous for its lush green and picturesque surroundings of the mountains and its quiet and tourist-friendly locals. Kasauli is set in the backdrop of the Dhauladhar Ranges with natural trails for long walks. Monkey Point, Lower and Upper Mall, Sanawar, Baba Balak Nath Tempe, Sabathu Fort are some of the major places to visit in Kasauli . One can also see several species of Himalayan flora and fauna including endangered ones as part of Kasauli packages . Kasauli also has a Pasteur Institute founded in 1900 to produce rabies vaccine and at the same time, it also treats Hydrophobia disease. Kasauli can be visited along with Shimla packages ...

7. Mcleod Ganj

Surrounded by the Dhauladhar ranges, McLeod Ganj, also spelt McLeodGanj, is a scenic hill station that lies at an altitude of 2082 m in Himachal Pradesh. About238 km from Manali, 240 km from Shimla, and 490 km from Delhi, it is one of the popular places to visit as part of Himachal tour packages .   Mcleodganj was the official residence of the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, and also the headquarters of the Tibetan Government in exile. Mcleodganj packages are a mix of Tibetan institutions, Buddhist monasteries, culture, art, and crafts. Dharamkot, Bhagsu, Triund, Dal Lake, Gaggal, Lower Dharamshala, Namgyal Monastery, Tsuglagkhang, and Tsechokling Gompa are the top tourist places in Mcleodganj . It is also a major shopping center famous for souvenirs like Tibetan handicrafts, carpets, garments, wooden masks, paper drawings, beads, baubles, etc. McLeodganj also serves as a base camp for various trekking expeditions that cover Kangra and Chamba Valleys and Dhauladhar ranges. It is one of the top hill stations near Delhi .

Situated at the junction of Kullu and Dharamshala, the town of Mandi is a gorgeous mountainous region filled with surreal landscapes and innumerable ancient shrines. About 70 km from Kullu, and 431 km from New Delhi, it is one of the best weekend getaways from Delhi and among the offbeat places in Himachal. Offering the stunning views of the snow-capped mountains, the lush forests, and the swiftly flowing Beas, Mandi is a delightful place for those who want a rejuvenating, quiet holiday. Mandi can be visited along with Manali tour packages . Mandi is often referred to as 'Varanasi of Hills', or 'Choti Kashi', or 'Kashi of Himachal' as the town has as many as 81 temples spread across its area. Prashar Lake, Barot Valley, Rewalsar Lake, Shikari Devi Temple, Bhimakali Temple, Bhootnath Temple, Triloknath Temple are some of the top tourist places in Mandi . Often considered as the cultural capital of Himachal Pradesh, this quaint hill town is known for the International Mandi Shivaratri Fair, held every year in February-March. This is the must-see occation as part of Mandi packages .

9. Narkanda

Situated on the India - Tibet Road, Narkanda is one of the offbeat places to visit in Himachal , and among the must-visit hill stations near Chandigarh . It is about 60 km from Shimla, 167 km from Chandigarh, and 414 km from New Delhi. Situated at an altitude of 8600 ft, the opulent town of Narkanda is known for its exquisite natural beauty with scenic views of snow-clad mountains, and dense forests. Narkanda is popularly known as the 'Getaway to Apple Country' as it connects to Thanedar. It can be visited along with Shimla holiday packages . Narkanda is an ideal getaway for photography enthusiasts and those who want to relax in an undisturbed and tranquil location, far away from the bustling city life. Tani Jubbar Lake, Stokes Apple Farm, Hatu Temple, Hatu Peak, Mahamaya Temple, Kotgarh, and Thanedar are the famous tourist places in Narkanda . Surrounded by forests and woodlands, Narkanda is one of the most well-known ski resorts in India. During winter, the slopes come alive with skiers. Towering at 3400 m, Hatu Peak is one of the popular places for skiing as part of Narkanda packages .

10. Chamera Lake

At a distance of 26 km from Dalhousie, the Chamera Lake is an artificial lake situated at Chourah village in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the scenic lakes in Himachal Pradesh and among the must-include places in Dalhousie packages . The Chamera Lake is formed by the Chamera Dam on the Ravi River, which is positioned at an altitude of 1700 m. It is a major source of water supply for the villagers and is continuously fed by the Ravi River. The Chamera Hydel Electric Project, one of the main hydel projects of Himachal Pradesh, is situated nearby. It is one of the best Dalhousie tourist places . Nestled in a valley amid pine forests, the lake is an excellent site for activities like fishing, angling, and boating. Himachal Pradesh Tourism department has built a boathouse adjacent to the lake near Taleru, which has facilities for water sports like river rafting, motor boating, canoeing, and kayaking. Other than the water sports, pedal boats and rowing boats are also available for tourists. The Bhandal Valley and the Bhalei temple are the other tourist spots near Chamera Lake. Chamera Lake is well connected by roads making it easy to reach the place. Boating Charges: Rs.300 for Adults and Rs.200 for Children for 30 minutes.

11. Khajjiar

At a distance of 20 km from Chamba, and 21 km from Dalhousie, Khajjiar is a beautiful hill station located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the scenic hill stations near Chandigarh , and among the must-include places in Dalhousie sightseeing packages . Often known as the Switzerland of India, Khajjiar is situated at an altitude of 1,951 m in the foothills of the Dhauladhar ranges of the Western Himalayas and is part of the Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary. Khajjiar was a part of the erstwhile state of the Rajput rulers of Chamba. It served as the capital of Chamba rulers. Thereafter, it was taken over by the Mughals, from which the rule passed over to various Sikh kingdoms. Subsequently, it was taken over by the British. Khajjiar is a picturesque spot with an emerald saucer shaped meadow amidst a dense forest. Khajjiar Lake is a small lake covering an area of about 5000 sq. yards. On the lake, some clusters of grasses and weeds have grown that appear like a floating island. A little away from the lake is the temple of Khajji Nag belonging to the 12th century AD. This temple is dedicated to the Lord of Serpents. The Nag that is worshipped here has a human form. The stone idol has a mace in one hand and a khanda, a double dagger in the other. In the mandapa of the temple, one can see the images of the Pandavas and Kauravas near the ...

12. Manikaran

At a distance of 42 km from Kullu, 61 km from Naggar and 80 km from Manali, Manikaran is located in Parvati Valley between the rivers Beas and Parvati in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. It lies at an altitude of 1760 m. Manikaran is famous for hot water springs, Ramchandra Temple and a Gurudwara. It is a top pilgrimage site and among the best Kullu & Manali tourist places . According to legend, Manikaran is associated with Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Once while roaming through the valley, Shiva and Parvati came across the place called Manikaran and they decided to stay for some time. During their stay here, Goddess Parvati lost her Mani (precious stones) in the waters of a stream. Upset over the loss, she asked Shiva to retrieve it. Lord Shiva commanded his attendant to find the Mani for Parvati. However, when they failed he was extremely angry. He opened his third eye. An appeal was made before the serpent god, Sheshnag, to pacify Lord Shiva. Sheshnag hissed thereby giving rise to a flow of boiling water. The water spread over the entire area resulting in the emergence of precious stones of the type Goddess Parvati had lost. Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were happy at the outcome. The water of hot springs here is considered auspicious. Manikaran is also a pilgrimage centre for Sikhs. The Guru Nanak Devji Gurudwara also known as Manikaran ...

13. Bhagsunag Waterfall / Bhagsu Falls

At a distance of 3 km from McLeod Ganj & 7 km from Dharamshala, Bhagsunag Falls, also known as Bhagsu Falls, is a beautiful waterfall situated at Bhagsu village behind Bhagsunath Temple near McLeod Ganj in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the popular McLeodganj places to visit , and among the best waterfalls in Himachal . Cascading down from a height of 20 m, this is a mid-size waterfall. During monsoon, this waterfall turns beautiful alongside a mountain that features slate graffiti. This area is covered with snowfall during winters. Tourists love to swim across the cold water which gives a pleasant and refreshing experience as part of McLeodganj sightseeing packages . Trekking is also a good and much enjoyable option here. The Bhagsu village is a popular picnic spot and also home to the famous Bhagsunath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This is a famous tourist attraction and also an important place for Hindu pilgrims. Reaching this waterfall needs some hard work as visitors need to climb the hill halfway to reach the waterfall. There is a nice cafeteria next to the falls and the area serves as an excellent picnic spot for tourists. Bhagsunag Falls is about 3 km from McLeodganj and best visited by trek, although one can also drive up to Bhagsu village and trek ...

14. Dainkund Peak

At a distance of 17 km from Dalhousie Bus Stand, Dainkund Peak is a mountain peak situated at Dalhousie. Perched at an altitude of 2755 m, is the highest mountain peak in Dalhousie, and among the famous trekking places near Chandigarh . Dainkund is also a famous place for short trekking near Dalhousie. The name Dainkund is said to have been derived from Dain - Kund, which means Lake of the Witches. It is believed that in old days this mountain was the residence of witches. The sound of the breeze passing through the trees makes a musical sound, due to which this peak has also acquired the name, the singing hill. This peak has two major attractions; one is the Indian Air Force base and the other is the Pholani Devi temple, which is a temple of great importance. One of the most interesting facts about this temple is that there is no idol of the deity, except a trident inside the temple premises. The peak offers a clear view of the flow of the rivers Ravi, Chenab, and Beas which flow at the base. Trekking is one of the best things to do in Dalhousie , and is a beautiful experience, with great views and fresh cool mountain air. Being the highest peak, it gets maximum snowfall during the winter season. The ascent to the Dainkund begins after crossing Lakkar Mandi. About a 6 km drive from Lakkar Mandi leads to ...

15. Raison - River Rafting

At a distance of 13 km from Kullu, 14 km from Naggar, and 27 km from Manali, Raison is a small cluster of villages on the banks of the Beas River. It is one of the top rafting destinations in Himachal Pradesh, and among the must-visit places for adventure buffs during their Kullu tour . Situated at an altitude of 1433 m, Raison is well known for its camping sites and white-water river rafting. Numerous apple orchards and fruit gardens of plums and apricots add to the natural beauty of the place. Apart from nature, Raison is famous for adventure activities like rafting, trekking, mountain climbing, and river crossing, etc. Rafting in Raison is one of the top things to do in Kullu . By the end of the winter season, in March, the whole region becomes colorful with blooming flowers. This place is also famous as the rural center of AIIMS where summer camps for various ophthalmological diseases are held every year. At the camping sites, there are about 14 tourist huts, which require advance booking through the Kullu Tourist Office. These wooden huts are built along the banks of the Beas River. During winter the temperature falls down to 1-2�C and the summer weather is pleasant. Summer between March to June is the best season for outdoor activities like Rafting, Trekking, and River Crossing. There are several rafting agencies along the Beas River ...

16. Triund Hill

At a distance of 8 km from McLeod Ganj Bus Stand and 13 km from Dharamshala, Triund is a beautiful hill situated in the Dhauladhar Mountains of Himachal Pradesh. Witth an altitude of about 2842 m, it is one of the popular trekking places near Delhi , and among the must-visit places during McLeodganj tour . Triund is an 8 km trek from the McLeod Ganj Bus Stand. It is one of the best trails of short treks in Himachal state and among the top McLeodganj tourist places for adventure buffs. This is a small and easy trek, which can be done either from McLeodganj or Dharamkot, which is 2 km ahead of McLeodganj. The trail is 6 km from Dharamkot and passes through Galu Devi temple. From this temple, it takes around 3 hours to reach Triund. The initial half of the trek is a gradual incline and the last 2 km from Snowline Cafe involves a steep climb all the way till Triund. The last 1 km has 22 tiring curves before finally reaching Triund. Along the way, there are many small Tea shops where one can refresh during the hike. Trek can also be started from Bhagsu Nag. There is a Devi Temple located on the top of Triund Hill at the highest point. From here, one can have a beautiful view of Moon Peak and Indra Pass. There is a snowline at Ilaka visited by adventurers which is ...

17. Kufri Ski Resort

At a distance of 16 km from Shimla Railway Station, Kufri is a small hill station in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh. Positioned at an elevation of 2,510 m on the National Highway 22, it is one of the best places for skiing in India, and among the must-include places in Shimla tour packages . Kufri is quite famous as a ski resort. Kufri derives its name from 'Kufr' which means lake. It is especially popular among trekkers and it is a popular place for adventure sports in Himachal Pradesh. The British discovered it in 1819. As Shimla gained importance, Kufri also began to be recognized as an important place to visit near Shimla as part of honeymoon tour packages . Kufri is known for its pleasant climate and picturesque beauty. It is popular for its trekking and hiking trails. Kufri is also renowned for other adventurous activities such as skiing, tobogganing (sliding downhill on a sled). It has the oldest skiing slopes in Himachal Pradesh. During winters, when snow spreads over the slopes of Kufri, lovers of skiing know that they will have an exciting time ahead, and skiing is one of the must-experience things to do in Shimla . Ski courses for beginners are conducted every winter by Himachal Tourism. Kufri is also a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers as the ...

18. Great Himalayan National Park

At a distance of 14 km from Gushaini, 63 km from Bhuntar, 75 km from Kullu, and 113 km from Manali, the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) is a high altitude national park situated in Himachal Pradesh. It is one of best national parks in India , and among the must-include places in Kullu sightseeing packages . The Great Himalayan National Park spreads across Parvati valley, Thirthan valley, Sainj valley & Jiwa Nal valley of Kullu region. It is one of the best national parks in Himachal . The park was established in 1984 and is spread over an area of 754 sq km at an altitude varying between 1500 to 6000 m. GHNP was formally declared a national park in 1999. In June 2014, the Park was declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site. The GHNP is situated adjacent to Pin Valley National Park, Rupi-Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Tirthan and Sainj Wildlife Sanctuaries, making it one of the biggest areas for wildlife conservation in the whole Himalayan range. It is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries near Delhi . The Park is home to more than 375 fauna species including approximately 31 species of mammals and 181 species of birds. More than 15,000 residents of 160 villages in the buffer zone are dependent on GHNP's natural resources. The fauna of ...

19. Bijli Mahadev Temple

At a distance of 26 km from Kullu, and 60 km from Manali, Bijli Mahadev is a Hindu temple situated at Chansari village near Kullu. It is one of the sacred temples in Himachal , and among the top religious places to visit in Kullu . Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Bijli Mahadev temple is situated on Mathan Hill at an altitude of about 2,460 m and is surrounded by Parvati, Garsa, Bhuntar, and Kullu hills. The temple is renowned for its 60 feet high flagpole that sparkles like a silver needle in the sunlight. This high structure draws divine blessings in the form of lightening and it is said that with every flash of lightening, the Shiva Linga is shattered to pieces. The broken pieces of the Shiva Linga were bound together by the temple priest using butter and Sattoo (a paste of roasted gram and wheat powder). This activity repeats itself once every year. It is due to this legend that the temple is named Bijli (lightening) Mahadev. The Temple was built in Pahari style. There is an impressively carved image of Nandi at the entrance of Bijli Mahadev temple. The temple doors are also beautifully carved with sculptures. Some puja articles are available inside the temple without any additional cost. The surroundings of the temple are quite scenic as the temple is situated on top of the Mathan hill. The site offers a panoramic view of the Kullu and Parvati ...

At a distance of 4 km from Manikaran, 30 km from Bhuntar, 38 km from Kullu, and 76 km from Manali, Kasol is a small village in Parvati Valley of Kullu district. It is one of the famous Kullu sightseeing places . Situated at an altitude of 1640 m, Kasol is a picturesque village with traditional wooden houses having slanted stone roofs. The place is dotted with small orchards of apple, plum, peaches, pears, apricot, and almonds. A mountain stream called Grahan Nallah divides the village into two parts. This stream flows into the Parvati River. Kasol is a favorite tourist destination, especially for Israelis. Thousands of Israelis visit this region every year and stay for months as part of their Himachal tour . Frequented by tourists and hippies, Kasol has everything from Reggae Bars to Internet Cafes and cheap guest-houses. Kasol is an ideal destination for backpackers, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts due to its scenic beauty, untouched mountains, and great climate throughout the year. It is an important base for trekking towards SarPass, Yanker Pass, Pin Parvati Pass, and Kheer Ganga. The Parvati River abounds with trout fish and is the perfect place for angling. However, permission from the forest department is required for trout fishing in the river. Parvati River at Kasol is also ideal for white water rafting. It is one of the best ...

21. Kalka - Shimla Railway

At a distance of 84 km from Shimla, Kalka is a town located in Haryana State. Kalka Railway Station is the northern terminus of the Delhi -Kalka line and the starting point of the legendary Kalka-Shimla Railway. This railway was added to the UNESCO world heritage list in July, 2008. A ride in the toy train is one of the top things to do in Shimla and it is extensively used in promotion of Himachal tourism . The Kalka-Shimla Railway was built by the British in 1903 to provide access to their summer capital of Shimla. The distance of 96 km between Shimla and Kalka passes through 102 tunnels, 864 bridges and an incredible 900 curves. There are more than 20 stations in this route. It connects Kalka at an altitude of 656 m to Shimla at 2076 m. The five hour journey is one of the best train journeys operated by Indian Railway. It is popular for the picturesque views of hills and the surrounding villages. The longest tunnel, which stretches for more than a kilometer, is near the main railway station at Barog. Total 864 bridges were constructed on this line. Most of the bridges have multi arched galleries like the ancient Roman aqueducts. Bridge No. 493; historically known as the ''Arch Gallery'', situated between Kandaghat and Kanoh stations, is an arch bridge in three stages constructed with stone masonry ...

22. Kheer Ganga / Khir Ganga

At a distance of 22 km from Manikaran, 56 km from Bhuntar, 64 km from Kullu, and 102 km from Manali, Khir Ganga is a small village situated at an altitude of 3050 m in Parvati Valley. Khir Ganga is one of the best places for trekking in Himachal Pradesh, and among the top places to places to visit near Kullu . Kheer Ganga is a holy place with a hot water spring. There is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. According to legend, Kartikeya the younger son of Lord Shiva and Parvati meditated for thousand years at Khir Ganga making it an important religious place for Hindus. The name Kheer Ganga or Khir Ganga came due to the milky waters of the Parvati River flowing into Parvati valley. Kheer Ganga trek starts from the village Barsheni which is reachable from Manikaran. From Barsheni, one needs to trek 11 km to reach Kheer Ganga. Hiring a guide to trek this route is recommended. At Barsheni one can see the confluence of Tosh River and Parvati River. While trekking from Barsheni, travellers can visit attractions like Rudra-Nag, the serpent-shaped waterfall, the rock formation of Pandu Pul, and the Pin-Parvati Pass (5400 m). The Pin Valley National Park is another tourist attraction and is known for its resident wildlife population including snow leopards. This is usually a 2-day trek from Barsheni / Kullu. It is one of the popular trekking places near Chandigarh . The ...

23. Tirthan Valley

At a distance of 70 km from Kullu, 75 km from Mandi, and 105 km from Manali, Tirthan Valley is a mountain valley located inside the Great Himalayan National Park, Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the most beautiful places in Himachal Pradesh, and among the famous Kullu places to visit , especially for adventure enthusiasts. Tirthan Valley is one of the four valleys situated in the GHNP, and among the must include places in Kullu holiday packages . Situated at an altitude of 1600 m, Tirthan Valley derives its name from the Tirthan River, which originates from the glaciers of the Himalayas. Tirthan valley stretches from Banjar to Bathad, dotted with a number of villages on the river bank. The entire valley is verdant green with alpine grooves and deciduous forest. Gushaini is the entry point to start trekking into Tirthan valley. Tirthan Valley has several trekking trails ranging from one day to 8 days starting from Gushani with the distance varying between 10 to 60 km (round trip). It is one of the best trekking places near Delhi . Tirthan valley also serves as a base camp for trekkers to start their trekking into GHNP. The valley is green and good for Trout fishing, overnight camping, river crossing, rappelling, and all kinds of adventure activities. Trout fishing requires ...

24. Kalatop Khajjiar Wildlife Sanctuary

At a distance of 10 km from Dalhousie, 16 km from Khajjiar, and 38 km from Chamba, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary or Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary, is a wildlife sanctuary located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in India , and among the must-include places in Dalhousie tour packages . Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary was founded in 1958 and is one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in Himachal . The sanctuary lies in the catchments area of river Ravi, with an altitude ranging from 3910 feet to 9134 feet. This sanctuary is spread over an area of 1962 hectares and the landscapes are thickly covered with Deodar trees interspersed with little streams flowing into the Ravi River. The sanctuary is one of the best places of wildlife near Chandigarh . The sanctuary boasts a wide variety of wildlife. Leopard, Bear, Deer, Squirrel, Barking Goral, Serow, Langur, Jackal, and Himalayan Black Marten are some of the animals that are inhabited in the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. This wildlife sanctuary also houses as many as 117 species of rare birds and pheasants. Some of these are cheers, kaleej, koklas and Himalayan monal. The birds that you can find here are Eurasian Jay, Chestnut Billed rock ...

25. Hanogi Mata Temple

At a distance of 41 km from Kullu, 30 km from Mandi and 80 km from Manali, Hanogi Mata Temple is a well known religious centre of Kullu that lies on the Mandi- Manali National Highway 3. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Hango Mata. The location of this temple is quite picturesque as it is positioned on the top of a small peak; green mountains serve as a backdrop for the temple and a stream flowing below makes this temple a stunning attraction. Not only religious belief allures the tourists to this place but its great location is also one of the reasons for catching the attention of visitors. The view from temple is really very scenic and marvelous.

26. Serolsar Lake

At a distance of 78 km from Kullu, 84 km from Mandi, 25 km from Banjar and 10 km from Shoja, Serolsar Lake is a beautiful lake situated at a distance of around 5 km from the Jalori pass. This lake can be reached by a trek from Shoja or Jalori Pass. Serolsar Lake is located at an altitude of 3199 m. It is surrounded by thick vegetation of alpine forests. There is a myth that even if a small leaf falls into the Lake the birds around takes them out of the lake and keeps the water crystal clear. The water of the lake is believed to have medicinal properties. The Lake has a narrow walking track lined up with thick tall trees on the outer side. On one side of the Lake is a small temple of Buddha Nagini. The devotees worship and offer ghee to the deity. It is said that the lake is very deep and that Budhi Nagin herself lived in a golden palace at the bottom of the lake. The trek from Jalori Pass to Serolsar Lake is a 5 km one way and takes about 2 hrs. The trek starts from just below the temple atop Jalori pass. In winter, Serolsar experience snowfall up to 5-8 ft. The place is best to visit during summers. People visiting this place are advised to come with their own food and necessary woolen clothing. Now, small rest houses have also been built to provide accommodation to the visitors. This place can be visited as a one day trip from Kullu if started early in the morning.

27. Shringa Rishi Temple - Banjar

At a distance of 60 km from Kullu, 65 km from Mandi and 6.5 km from Banjar, Shringa Rishi Temple is situated at Baggi village in Banjar valley. The Shringa Rishi Temple (or Shringi Rishi Temple) is an important religious center for the locals. The temple of Shringi Rishi is considered very sacred by locals and they believe that this deity is one which protects them. Shringi Rishi is one among the eighteen chief deities of Kullu valley. This temple is dedicated to sage Rishyasringa, who was the legendary saint of Kashyapa's lineage. Shringi Rishi was great saint of the Ramayana era and his father was saint Vibhandak Rishi. Shringi Rishi performed Putrakameshti Yagna for King Dashrath of Ayodhya, after that Lord Rama and his three brothers were born. Shringi Rishi is the ruling deity of Banjar valley. Here Rishi is popularly known as Skirni Deo. This temple has been reconstructed in 2008. Once a year, in the month of May, thousands of pilgrims come here every year to pay homage to Lord Shringa. During rest of the year the place remains inaccessible due to thickly covered snow. This place needs a short walk for 10 minutes from the main road.

28. Chandra Tal Trek

At a distance of 16 km from Batal, and 127 km from Manali, Chandra Taal, or Chandra Tal is a high altitude lake in the Spiti part of the Lahul, Himachal Pradesh, India. It is one of the scenic high altitude lakes in the Himalayan region, and among the popular treks to go as part of Manali tour packages . Perched at an altitude of 4,300 m, Chandra Tal Lake is on the Samudra Plateau which overlooks Chandra river, a source river of the Chenab. Chandratal, which means the Lake of Moon, is derived its name from its crescent shape. The source which feeds the lake is probably under the ground, as there is nothing visible on the surface. The lake encircles a vast meadow that is carpeted with different kinds of wildflowers. It is confined in between the lofty mountains and is one of two high-altitude wetlands of India which have been designated as Ramsar sites. From here, you have a great view of high mountains and the Baralacha glacier, which is the source of three rivers namely Chandra, Bhaga, and Tsarap. According to legend, this lake is the place from where Lord Indra's chariot picked up Yudhishthira, in his mortal form to Swarga (heaven). As a result, this lake is a revered one and draws a large number of devotees. And, the locals believe that fairies visit the lake at night. The Chandra Tal Lake Trek is an absolute bliss for amateur trekkers and the best time to hit the tracks is from mid-June to mid-October. ...

29. Chanderkhani Pass Trek

At a distance of 17 km from Rumsu and 40 km from Manali, Chanderkhani Pass is a beautiful mountain pass located in Kullu Valley, Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the best trekking destinations in Manali. Placed at an altitude of 3600 m above the sea level, Chanderkhani Pass located in the middle of lush green Kullu Valley. It forms a way between the villages of Rumsu and Pulag to Malana, which indirectly forms a trekking route from Naggar to Malana across the Chanderkhani Pass. The trek is one of the most beautiful treks that introduces the traveler to the remote, hilly cultures of Himachal Pradesh. The pass offers fabulous views of the Deo Tibba peak, Pir Panjal, and Parbati range of mountains. The scenic beauty of the Kullu valley and the mountain peaks that dot that horizon is a treat for the nature lover throughout the journey. The region has a lot of religious importance and is called the Valley of Gods. Legend has it that Jamlu, the presiding deity at Malana, opened a basket containing the gods of Kullu at the Chandrakhani Pass and incidentally a strong wind came by and blew away all the idols to the nearby peaks. Hence, all the nearby mountain peaks of Indrasan, Deo Tibba, Pir Panjal Range & Parbati Range are considered holy and can be seen very clearly from the pass. This trek is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers who are looking for a short getaway from the city life. The trail for Chanderkhani Pass starts from the Rumsu village which is located ...

30. Hampta Pass Trek

At a distance of 30 km from Manali, Hampta Pass is a small passage between the Lahaul Chandra Valley and Kullu Valley in the Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the most popular treks which commences from Manali. Hampta Pass is perched at an altitude of 4,270m on the Pir Panjal range in the Himalayas. The pass derives its name from the tiny hamlet Hampta, snuggled in the laps of the Kullu Valley. As per the legend, Hampta Pass got its name after Hampta Maharishi who meditated there. This pass is frequently used by shepherds of the lower Himalayan region, seeking high altitude grasslands in the summer, when the dry cold desert of Lahaul is barren. The trek starts from the Jobra base camp, which has campsites and a few lodges for trekkers. Jobra has road connectivity with Manali and can be easily reached by a private vehicle. The trek trail goes through Jobra-Balu Ka Ghera- Siagoru-Chhatru-Manali and can be finished in 4-5 days. The entire trail of Hampta Pass is dotted with dense pinewood forests, endless green meadows, rustling mountain streams, vibrant wildflowers, daunting mountains, beautiful valleys, serene lakes, and pools. Walk past the incredible views of snow-clad mountains decorated with rippling ridges and infinite stretch of green shrouded in mist. The trek is of moderate difficulty level and is preferred by both beginners as well as experienced trekkers. The last leg of the trek is completely a downhill journey from Siagoru to Chhatru (6 km) in which ...

31. Jogini Waterfalls

At a distance of 4 km from Vashisht Temple and 7.5 km from Manali Bus Stand, Jogini or Jogni Falls is a beautiful waterfall situated near Vashisht Village in Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the famous waterfalls in Himachal , and among the popular places to visit in Manali . Jogini Fall is formed by the tributary of the Beas River. Jogini Falls is situated on the Northern edge of Vashisht Village which marks the village boundary. The waterfall cascades down from a height of around 150 feet through multiple levels. There is a small pool at the base formed by the fall and visitors can take a plunge in the water and spend some time. This is one of the top attractions you must include in Manali Packages . The flow of the water is heaving in monsoons and suggested not to adventure into the water during this time. Jogini Mata temple is at the base of the waterfall. It is a sacred site to the surrounding villages. The locals bring their children for their first tonsure here. The waterfall can be reached by trekking from Vashisht Temple. The trek route passes through a narrow lane adjacent to the Vashisht temple and is a nice gentle trek that can be completed in 3 hours (both ways). This is one of the best short treks in Manali to enjoy local scenic beauty and village life in the Himalayas. On ...

32. Bara Bhangal Trek

At a distance of 3 km from Manali Bus Station, Bara Bhangal trek is a challenging trek that starts from the picturesque hill station of Manali, Himachal Pradesh. It is considered to be one of the most scenic treks in Manali as well as Himachal Pradesh. Stretches from Manali to the far Kangra Valley, Bara Bhangal trek is the most adventurous, strenuous, far -stretched trek in the Kullu Valley. This is considered as one of the most challenging as well as exciting treks in Himachal Pradesh as it stretches from an elevation of 2,050 meters to about 5,000 meters and negotiates through narrow, tricky, and rocky paths which include dangerous moraines and thick glaciers. Also called the Shepherds Trail as it is frequently used by the shepherds to reach Kangra Valley from Kullu. This long Shepherds trail involves crossing two high passes - Kalihani Pass at 4725 m and Thamsar Pass at 4875 m - and descending to the remote Bara Bhangal village. The alpine terrain between the Kullu Valley and Dharamshala is one of the most spectacular and little known regions of the Western Himalayas. This trek is challenging and thus must be attempted by experienced trekkers only. The trail takes you across green grasslands, flower-laden campsites, meandering rivers, numerous waterfalls, moraines and glaciers, glacial lakes, and some of the most outstanding scenery. Besides, this arduous trail offers wonderful vistas of endless Himalayan ranges and peaks like Indrasan, Deo Tibba, Hanuman Tibba. The ...

33. Patalsu Peak

At a distance of 8 km from Solang Valley and 20 km from Manali, Patalsu Peak is an astounding peak located within the proximity of the picturesque Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh. It is an ideal trekking destination in Manali. Perched at a height of 4200m (13,800 ft), the Patalsu Peak boasts of its scenic beauty and enchanting appeal. It is one of the most amazing trekking destinations in the region. With moderate to challenging gradients, the trek entices a large number of trekking enthusiasts from across the country. Though the trek pushes you through some steep inclines, narrow ridges, and moraines, the summit offers unmatched views of the entire Kullu valley, Hanuman Tibba, Friendship Peak, Manali Peak, and mountains of Dhauladhar Ranges. Though moderately challenging, the Patalsu Peak trek is ideal for beginners. The trek starts from the very famous Solang valley, and the trails pass through quaint little hamlets, alpine meadows, and beautiful dense forests of oak and pine. It is a total of 16 km trek (both ways) and will be completed in 2-3 days. From the valley, one will trek to Shagadugh, which is about 3 km from Solang Valley and is the first destination of the trek. Then the trail leads to base camp (2 km). After 3 km long and grueling climb from the camp, one can reach the Patalsu Peak where you will find snow even in the months of summer. During the trek, you get a chance to visit Solang, the old Himalayan village, and waterfall which makes this trek ...

34. Illaqa / Lahesh Cave Trek

At a distance of 12 km from McLeod Ganj and 17 km from Dharamshala, Lahesh Cave is a Camping ground which is used by shepherds in the summers when they take their sheep to the high altitude meadows here. It lies at an altitude of 3500 m above sea level. Lahesh Cave is a 12 km trek from the McLeod Ganj Bus Stop. This is an easy to moderate trek, which can be done either from McLeod Ganj or Dharamkot, which is 2 km ahead of McLeod Ganj. The trail is 10 km from Dharamkot and passes through Galu Devi Temple, Triund and Illaqa. Triund is the base camp for the trekkers who continue the trek to Lahesh Cave, Indrahara Pass to Bharmour. Along the way there are many small Tea shops where one can refresh during the hike. After a 2 km ascent from Triund, traversing through a ridge will lead to Illaqa or Laka which has a temporary shepherd camp. The path is rock-strewn and uneven, some spots were treacherous too. Illaqa is a flat stretch of land on the Moon Peak Mountain which divides the Kangra Valley and Chamba Valley. It is situated at the snout of small glacier, which is covered with snow capped mountains. There is a tea stall at Illaqa, one can buy some eatables and can spend night in the camps or own tents. From Ilaka, a 2 km steep ascent over rocky ridge will take to Lahesh cave. It will take you about 2-3 hours to get to Lahesh Cave from Triund. The total trek needs 2-3 days from McLeodGanj and having a guide is definitely recommended. Visitors can camp at Lahesh Cave ...

35. Shaily Peak

At a distance of 30 km from Naldehra and 44 km from Shimla, the Shaily Peak or Shali Tibba is a mountain peak situated near Khatnol in Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the popular places to visit near Shimla, and among the best places for trekking in Himachal . Perched at an altitude of 9,423 feet, the Shaily Peak is one of the most beautiful trekking destinations near Shimla. The peak provides a 360-degree magnificent view of Shimla, Mashobra, Kufri, Fagu, and Narkanda. It looks exceptionally stunning during the sunrise and the sunset. There is a temple at the top dedicated to Bhima Kali, a goddess, who is highly revered by locals. Devotees flock to the top regularly, especially during Navratri. The temple has been constructed with wood and stones, typical of rural Himalayan architecture. A trail to the temple was constructed in 1936 by the Raja of Faridkot. The same trail exists today and is in a good shape. Surrounded by forests, rocky trails, and dense vegetation, this peak attracts a lot of adventurers and trekkers as part of Shimla packages . The snow-capped Himalayan mountain-ranges and beautiful landscapes located here are hard to miss, and the fresh breeze gives you a peaceful environment. Away from the hustle of Shimla, the 8 km trek to Shali Peak from the Khatnol, the base village is beautiful, easy and can be completed in 5 hours. The up is constant, ...

36. Kareri Lake

At a distance of 32 km from Dharamshala and 39 km from McLeod Ganj, Kareri Lake, also known as Kumarwah Lake, is a high altitude lake located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Trek to Kareri Lake is one of the top things to do in Dharamshala . Kareri Lake is situated at an altitude of 3100 m and is a fresh water lake. Snow melting from the Dhauladhar range serves as the source of the lake and a stream, Nyund is the outflow. Since the source is fresh melting snow and the lake is shallow the lake bed can be seen clearly. It is one of the must-include places in Dharamshala holiday packages . Kareri Lake is best known for being a trekking destination in the Dhauladhar range. The trek starts from Ghera village, which is about 22 km from McLeod Ganj. Ghera is accessed either by shared jeep from Dharamsala or on foot from Naddi. It has a few shops from where one can purchase few supplies. The trekking starts from Ghera village. A 9 km dirt road links Ghera to Kareri village which has a Forest Rest House for an overnight stay and continues the trek on next day. The 8 km trail from Kareri village leads to Kareri Lake. Most of this trail is along the Nyund stream right up to the Lake. The trek usually takes between 3-4 days. The lake remains frozen from early December to early April. There is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva ...

37. Arki Fort And Palace

At a distance of 38 km from Shimla, Arki is a small town situated at 4100 ft above sea level in the Solan district of Himachal. Arki Fort is one of the famous places to visit near Shimla , and among the best places of heritage in Himachal . Arki was the former capital of the ancient hill-state of Baghal, which was founded by Raja Ajai Dev, a Panwar Rajput during 1660-65 AD. The state of Baghal was founded around 1643 and Arki was declared as capital by Rana Sabha Chand in 1650. The Arki Fort was built between 1800 and 1805 by Rana Prithvi Singh, a descendent of Sabha Chand. The fort was captured by the Gurkhas in 1806. Rana Jagat Singh, the ruler of Baghal had to take refuge in Nalagarh. The Gurkha General Amar Singh Thapa made use of Arki to further the advances in Himachal Pradesh, from 1806 to 1815. Rana Jagat Singh got back the control of Arki afterward. The fort offers both historical legends and artistic creations to tourists. Rana Shiv Sharan Singh laid down the foundation of the famous Diwankhana of the Arki Fort Palace in the year 1830. It is situated on the upper floor of the two-storey Palace. It presents a fusion of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles and shows a heavy influence of Rajasthan. In 1850, Raja Kishen Chand added the stunning frescoes and murals done in the 'Pahari School' of miniature paintings. These frescoes are supposed ...

38. Bhimakali Temple - Sarahan

At a distance of 165 km from Shimla, Bhimakali Temple is a Hindu temple located at Sarahan in Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the popular places of pilgrimage in Himachal Pradesh , and among the must-include places in Shimla Trip . Bhimakali Temple in Sarahan is 800 years old and it is regarded as one of the 51 sacred Shakti peethas. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga known locally as Bhimakali. This is one of the popular pilgrimage sites near Chandigarh . The present Bhimakali Temple is a new one, built-in 1927. The old temple nearby has a fascinating story to it. It got tilted slightly in the 1905 earthquake and then miraculously straightened back with a subsequent tremor. It is said that the foundations of this temple are very deep and that there is a disused tunnel that connects this to the village of Ranwin, a kilometer away. Priests would enter and leave the temple through this secret passage. According to one legend, during Daksha Yagna, the Ear of Sati Devi fell here when Lord Vishnu cut the pieces of her body carried by heartbroken Lord Shiva. Other legend states that this area was under the rule of a Demon called Banasura, the great-grandson of king Prahlad an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu. Due to the Usha-Anirudh affair, Lord Krishna fought here with him, and in this battle, Lord ...

39. Chadwick Falls

At a distance of 5 km from Shimla Railway Station, Chadwick Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Shimla region and also one of the top tourist places to visit in Shimla . This is one of the top attractions you must include in Shimla packages . The Chadwick Falls is located at an altitude of 1586 m above sea level and the water cascades down a deep gorge at a height of 86 m. This fall can be approached through Summer Hill. Approach road is available and vehicles can get close to the entry point of waterfall from where about 10 minutes walk through thick vegitation will lead to the waterfalls.Trekking to the falls from Summer Hill is also an exciting experience. The water in Chadwick falls is very cold, chilly and refreshing as it flows down with forceful rapidness from the Himalayas. The best time to visit the Chadwick Falls is after monsoons during the months of July to October, when the water level is increased drastically. This is the time when the Chadwick Falls looks stunning like scattered crystals. The sight of this sparkling waterfall is a treat to the eyes. The fall is encircled with thick green wood and looks enchanting in the midst of steep hills of pine and deodar. This makes the fall more exotic and ravishing. The fall is also a source of water for the foresters and tribes. A walk to Chadwick falls is exciting because of the magnificent ...

40. Prashar Lake / Parashar Lake

At a distance of 51 km from Mandi, 65 km from Kullu, and 103 km from Manali, Prashar Lake, or Parashar Lake is a beautiful lake situated near Bagi village in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the most stunning lakes in Himachal and among the must include places in Mandi sightseeing packages . At an altitude of 2730 m, Prashar Lake is snuggled against the foothills of the mighty Himalayas. The oval-shaped lake has many tales associated with it. One legend says that after the battle of Kurukshetra, the Pandavas were returning with Lord Kamrunag. When they reached the mountains, Kamrunag loved the tranquility of the mountains and wanted to settle down there. So Bheem rammed his elbow on the ground and formed this crater, which later became the lake. Another story rooted in Himachali folklore claims that the lake was the site where Rishi Parashar have meditated. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and looking down on the fast-flowing Beas River, Prashar Lake has a perimeter of about 300 m and is fed by small mountain streams. An interesting thing about Parashar Lake is its floating circular island that keeps changing its position. Till now no one has been able to find out the depth of Prashar Lake. Traditionally, it is believed that the lake was formed as a result of a striking rod by Rishi Prashar and water came out and took shape of the lake. An ancient pagoda-style temple dedicated to the Rishi Prashar, ...

At a distance of 43 km from Shimla, Chail is a Hill Station located at an altitude of 2250 m above sea level in Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. This is one of the popular places to visit in Shimla and also one of the top Himachal places to visit . According to the History, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala incurred the wrath of the Commander in Chief Lord Kitchener, who banned his entry into the British summer Capital of Shimla in 1891. This incensed the Maharaja and he vowed to build a new summer retreat for himself. So he rebuilt the place Chail as per his requirements. The picturesque hill station located amidst scented forests of pine and gigantic deodars. Chail is built on three hills, the palace is on Rajgarh Hill, the Residency Snow View once occupied by British resident is on Pandhewa Hill and on the third hill Sadh Tibba where Chail is situated. Overlooking Satluj Valley, Shimla and Kasauli are also visible at night from here. Maharaja Bhupinder Singh developed the highest cricket field in the world in Chail. Well-kept and accurately maintained, more than the excitement of the game, the pitch offers a picturesque view of the surroundings, with tall forest trees all around it. Chail is also considered as the hiker's paradise. Chail has dense cover of pine and deodar trees. Its ...

42. Shikari Devi Temple

At a distance of 91 km from Mandi, Shikari Devi Temple is a Hindu shrine located near Janjehli in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the popular places of pilgrimage in Himachal and among the must-visit Mandi tourist places . Situated at an elevation of 3359 m, the Shikari Devi temple is located atop Sikhari Devi Peak, the highest peak in the Mandi district. It is believed that the temple has been existing since the time of Mahabharata. The temple is dedicated to Shikari Devi, the Goddess of hunters. In the archaic days, the hunters or shikaris of the region would worship the Goddess in the temple to seek blessings for a successful hunt. Hence, the temple got its name, Shikari Devi. Besides, the temple also has a great significance in the holy book Markandeya Purana as sage Markandeya is believed to have meditated in this beautiful temple. This is one of the prominent pilgrimage sites near Delhi . The temple is on a flat cemented square platform and the goddess is idolized in the form of a stone image. The most interesting fact about Shikari Devi Temple is that this temple does not have a roof as no one has ever been able to build a roof over the top of this temple. It has been observed that even though the temple has no roof, no snow is spotted inside the temple during winters when the entire region around this ...

43. Bir Billing

At a distance of 12 km from Joginder Nagar, 66 km from Dharamshala, and 68 km from Mandi, Bir is a village located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. It is rightfully considered the heaven for Paragliding and among the must-visit places for adventure enthusiasts as part of Mandi holiday packages . Bir Billing is famous as the Paragliding capital of the world and attracts paraglider pilots from all over the world. The first Paragliding World Cup of India was hosted in Bir Billing in the year 2015. Since then, the village continues to host periodic international competitions and events. The paragliding launch site is in the meadow at Billing (14 km north of Bir), at an elevation of 2400 m, while the landing site and most tourist accommodations are in the village of Chowgan on the southern edge of Bir. The flying season is from September to October, with some flying also done in November. It is one of the best adventurous places near Delhi , and Chandigarh as well. One of the major places of sightseeng in Mandi , Bir Billing is also famed for its soulful Tibetian monasteries set amidst scenic and peaceful settings. There is a sizable community of Tibetan refugees in the village, especially at the Bir Tibetan Colony. And among all the monasteries between Mandi and Kangra, ...

44. Fagu Ski Resort

At a distance of 6 km from Kufri, and 20 km from Shimla, Fagu is the ski resort situated in Himachal state. It is one of the secluded snowy retreats in Himachal state. It is one of the best ski resorts in India, and among the prime place to visit on a Shimla trip . Fagu is a famous site for adventure sports in Himachal state. It is situated on the Hindustan Tibet Road at a height of about 2500 m above sea level. It is well known for its swaying green fields with the snow-covered Himalayas at its backdrop. Fagu surprises vacationers with its splendor, charm, and serenity. It is one of the top places to visit near Delhi for skiing lovers. The town is surrounded by greenery and is rich in flora and fauna. Fagu is a perfect place for nature lovers and a must-visit place for those fond of scenic beauty. The place serves as a good base camp for trekkers and naturalists. The picturesque view of the hills and their beauty is really enchanting. Banthia Devta Temple, the place of worship of the local God is one of the most famous temples in the town which can be reached by climbing about 1000 steps. This Temple in Fagu reflects the craftsmanship of the locals with its extraordinary wood carvings.

45. Kamrunag Lake

At a distance of 7 km from Rohanda, and 46 km from Mandi, Kamru Nag Lake is a sacred lake located in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh. Situated at the top of the mountain ridge of Kamru valley, it is one of the popular places of pilgrimage in Himachal and among the best places to visit in Mandi. Situated at an average height of 3,334 m, Kamrunag is known for the oval-shaped lake built by Bhima, the Pandava brother, in honor of the King of Yakshas who finds a mention in the Mahabharata. There is a temple dedicated to Dev Kamrunag, the rain god, near the lake. Due to its closeness to the Kamrunag Temple, the ancient lake has been named after it. There is a tradition of offering gold, silver, and coins of other metals in the lake by devotees on the fulfillment of their wishes by Dev Kamrunag. Over a period of time, uncountable wealth has gathered inside the lake. Just like no one knows what lies inside the mysterious Vault B of Padmanabhaswamy Temple of Trivandrum, no one dares to ascertain the exact wealth lying at the lake bed. There have been attempts by thieves to rob off the lake of its underlying wealth, but the efforts have gone in vain, by the ire of the guardian deities, as believed by the locals. Amidst the beautiful Balh Valley and Dhauladhar Range, the Kamrunag Lake is an oasis for a spiritually-parched soul. For nature lovers, the sights surrounding this lake are like a treat to the sore eyes. Every year a three day fair is held at this place in ...

46. Dehnasar Lake

At a distance of 22 km from Barot, 20 km from Joginder Nagar, and 70 km from Mandi Bus Station, Dehnasar Lake is a high-altitude freshwater lake located in Himachal Pradesh. Situated in Barot valley, it is one of the sacred lakes in Himachal Pradesh and among the popular places of trekking as part of Mandi Tour Packages. Lies at an altitude of 4,280 m (14,040 ft), Dehnasar Lake, or Dansar Lake is one of the highest lakes in the Dhauladhar range of Himalayas. The lake is situated on the foothills of Ghora Lotnu Peak and derives its water from melted snow. Surrounded by big rocks from all the sides, the lake has a circumference of about 800 m and lies frozen under a thick coat of snow during winters. Like other lakes of Himalayas, it holds religious importance to people. According to the myth, goddess Parvati said to visit the lake to take a holy bath in the lake in the Bhadrapada month of the Hindu calendar, which generally falls in August or September. It is also believed that whoever preaches sun god while standing in the water gets their wishes fulfilled, so many pilgrims come to this high altitude lake just in the hope that their wishes will be fulfilled. The trek to this holy lake starts from Luhardi or Lohardi which is about 8 km from Barot. One can reach Lohardi by his own vehicle or public transport too. This moderately difficult, 14 km, uphill trek via Polling opens after June and closes after September. It is the most commonly used and shortest route ...

47. Hatkoti Temples

At a distance of 97 km from Shimla & 84 km from Kufri, Hatkoti Temples are located in Hatkoti village of Jubbal. The Hatkoti temples are a group of temples located on the scenic banks of River Jabbar. Hatkoti is one of the popular pilgrimage places in Himachal Pradesh. The Hatkoti Temple is an abode of goddess Mahishasurmardini, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The statue of the goddess is 1.2 m in height and made of eight precious metals. The idol depicts the goddess with ten arms, riding a lion, carrying weapons and slaying the demon Mahishasura. There is an inscription on both sides of the idol that no one has been able to decode so far. The complex also has a separate temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temples also boast of five idols, which ideally represent the five Pandava brothers of the Mahabharata period. These idols are arranged in accordance to their size with the first one being the largest. According to the history, Hatkoti temples date back to the period between the sixth to the ninth century, the Gupta period in Indian history. The temples reflect the beautiful architecture of that era. The architecture and design of Hatkoti Temple was originally in the classical Shikhara or tower style. The Shikhara style represents ancient structures that are conical or narrow at the top and have a wide base at the bottom. The walls of the temples are carved with ornate sculptures and speak volumes of the architectural ...

48. Jubbal Palace

At a distance of 90 kms from Shimla & 76 km from Kufri, Jubbal Palace is among the most prominent places to see in Jubbal. The Palace situated at an altitude of 7000 ft above sea level is one of the popular heritage sites in Himachal state. Designed by a French architect in 1930, the Palace architecture is a blend of Chinese, Indian and European styles. The Jubbal Palace is colored in cream hue and is admired with sloping roofs and red chimneys. The lower portion of the Palace known as Rana's abode consists of sandstone and is noteworthy for the vast stacks of deodar timber used in its structure. The modern wing of the Palace has an Indo-European design and feel with convoluted wooden ceilings and the works. The deodar wood from the surrounding forest was used for the construction of the Palace structures. Another beautiful aspect is the stunning display of the collection of ancient guns used by the royal families of Jubbal. In the interiors, visitors will find intricately carved structures of timber, suspended attics and signed photographs and paintings of eminent people. The present Palace is an impressive structure. The main entrance to the Palace is through a massive wooden door about 18 ft high and 7 ft wide. It is covered with copper and studded with coins. Old furniture and other artifacts and a rich library with a choice collection of Sanskrit and Persian books are some of its other attractions besides the beauty of the Palace. The Palace is spread over 4 ...

49. Dagshai

At a distance of 14 km from Kasauli and 18 km from Solan, Dagshai is one of the oldest cantonment towns in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated on top of a 5689 feet hillock on Kalka- Shimla Highway. Dagshai was founded in 1847 by the East India Company by securing five villages from Maharaja of Patiala Bhupinder Singh. The villages are Dabbi, Badhtiala, Chunawad, Jawag and Dagshai. The new cantonment was named after the largest Dagshai village. The name Dagshai, according to a popular local legend was derived from Daag-e-Shahi. During the Moghul times a Daag-e-Shahi (royal mark) was put on the forehead of the criminals and sent off to Dagshai village. Under British rule, Dagshai developed into a major cantonment town and also housed a large prison. Construction of the jail began in 1849 and included 54 cells. There is one cell for those who incurred exceptionally harsh punishment. There is no source of ventilation and light in the cells of the Dagshai Jail. There is only one VIP cell in the jail with luxuries such as a fireplace and washroom. The jail came into the limelight after the Irish mutiny. To provide moral support to the Irish people, Mahatma Gandhi stayed in this jail for one year. The Gorkha rebels of the Nasiri Regiment, who had rebelled during the 1857 revolt, were also held here. Dagshai Central Jail is now a museum frequented by tourists. It is the only jail museum in Mainland ...

50. Shoolini Temple - Solan

At a distance of 43 km from Shimla and 1.5 km from Solan Railway Station, Shoolini Devi Temple is one of the famous temples located in Solan. The Shoolini temple is dedicated to Goddess Shoolini Mata an incarnation of Goddess Durga. The town of Solan was named after the Shoolini Devi. Shoolini Mata Temple is one of the prime attractions of Solan. The temple is said to be built on the remains of an older temple believed to precede the town of Solan. The shrine is surrounded by wide views of beautiful landscapes thus creating a magical environment for devotees. The temple looks beautiful in the night when it is completely illuminated and is crowded on holidays and festivals. Shoolini Devi Temple is famous for the annual Shoolini Utsav celebrated on the last week of June every year. The festival and fair which lasts for 3 days attracts thousands of tourists and devotees from the state. Also known as Solan Fair, the highlight of Shoolini Devi Utsav at Solan are dancing, singing and wrestling. The idol of the Goddess is carried in a Palki and a huge procession is carried out around the town.

51. Kuthar Fort

At a distance of 52 km from Shimla and 33.5 km from Solan, Kuthar Fort is located in Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. Kuthar Fort is about 800 years old and it is one of the main places to visit near Solan. Kuthar Fort was originally built by the Gurkha Kings 800 years ago when they ruled over this part of the land. Some portions of the fort are 80 years old. Sprawling over an expanse of 52.8 sq km, this fort features beautiful gardens, fresh-water springs and ancient temples within the complex. Fresh water springs flowing within the fort are a rare sight that every visitor admires. You can also visit several scenic attractions like Kunihar, the Gurkha fort of Subathu and the hill station of Kasauli. Situated at an altitude of about 1300 m, the Kuthar fort is set at the hilltop of the Kuthar Mountains and commands a magnificent view of the snow-capped peaks of Shimla, Subathu fort and a wide range of Himalayas. The fort exhibits impressive Rajasthani architecture and is a true manifestation of Rajputana creativity. Colonnades, convoluted pillars and arches greatly highlight its beauty. In the interiors you will find intricate wooden carvings and fine paintings which are simply awe-inspiring. Kuthar Fort was once served as the residence of the royal family of Kuthar. It is a spectacular heritage site and a part of which has been converted into a royal resort. Visitors are allowed into the fort and capture pics. Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM Entry ...

52. Kharapathar

At a distance of 77 km from Shimla, 62 km from Kufri and 14 km from Jubbal, Kharapathar is a small village situated at an altitude of 8,770 ft. This place is known for its scenic beauty and several trekking trails. Kharapathar derived its name from a huge egg shaped rock. Kharapathar is a perfect leisure destination. It is surrounded by apple orchards and lush green forest. Kharapathar is a hotspot for tourists because of its natural beauty and picturesque landscape in Shimla district. Kharapathar's lush green slopes together with apple orchards, wide views, excellent walk and hike trails make this a perfect leisure. Visitors can also enjoy delicious food, including local dishes at the food stalls. The source of River Giri Ganga is just 7 km away from here. The trekking trail to Giri Ganga is an enjoyable one through thick deodar forest.

53. Beas Kund Trek

At a distance of 28 km from Manali Bus Stand and 15 km from Solang Valley, Beas Kund is a holy lake where Rishi Vyas took his daily bath. River Beas originates from here. The trek to Beas Kund is one of the best destinations for trekking in Manali and also among the best trekking Places to visit in Himachal state. The Beas Kund is protected by an igloo like stone structure and is considered sacred by the Hindus. The site has attracts thousands of devotees every year. The current name Beas is formed from Sage Vyas who is the author of Mahabharata. The ancient Indians called the Beas River as Vipas or Arjiki while the ancient Greeks called it as Hyphasis. This tiny lake of Beas Kund situated at higher and upper valley of Solang. Which is the heart of winter and summer games in Manali. On a clear day you can sight the magnificent Pir Pangal Range from Beas Kund. Beas Kund trek is one of the most popular and beautiful treks in Kullu Valley. It is an ideal base camp for climbing nearby peaks Shitidhar and Ladakhi peak. The West side of Beas Kund is magnificent peak of Hanuman Tibba at an altitude of 5990 m, which access through tiny pass of above this lake. The Beas Kund trek starts at Solang, 13 km from Manali and winds through Solang Valley. On this trek you will experience amazing views of lush green meadows, glaciers and snow-capped mountain peaks. The trail goes ...

54. Bhrigu Lake Trek

At a distance of 36 kms from Manali Bus Stand, Bhrigu Lake also known as 'Pool of the Gods' is a picturesque lake situated at an altitude of about 4240 m. The Bhrigu Lake is lying east of the Rohtang Pass. Bhrigu Lake Trek is one of the best Manali trekking destinations and among the prime place to visit on a Manali trip . According to the legend, Rishi Bhrigu a renowned sage of the Hindu religion meditated at this place and that many local gods of the Kullu Valley visit to take a dip in its sacred water. This lake is considered sacred by the Hindus and many devotees visit this site. The trek to Bhrigu Lake starts from Gulaba which is about 22 km from Manali. Actually there is no settlement in Gulaba and is actually an area of the Pir Pangal mountain range. The trek routes passes through Rola Kholi (7 km from Gulaba), Bhrigu Lake (7 Kms from Rola Kholi), Pandu Ropa (7 km from Bhrigu Lake) and ends at Vashist (8 km from Pandu Ropa). The forest trek from Gulaba to Rola Kholi takes you through old villages & apple orchards. This is usually a three days trek with Day 1 camping at Rola Kholi and Day 2 camping at Pandu Ropa. Once you reach Bhrigu Lake you will have breathtaking views of the Himalayan Mountains. The descent trek from Pandu Ropa to Vashist offers a great view of the entire Kullu Valley. March to October is ...

55. Deo Tibba Trek

At a distance of 35 km from Manali Bus Stand and 29 km from Jagatsukh Village, The elegant Deo Tibba at an altitude of 6000 m is situated south east of Manali town and above Jagatsukh village on the Pir Panjal range of Himalayas. The trek to Deo Tibba Kund is among the best trekking sites in Manali and also one of the well known places for trekking in Himachal Pradesh. Deo Tibba trek is pleasant trek that takes you to the grazing pastures of the Gaddi shepherds and the emerald blue waters of the Chandertal Lake (4,480 m) with magnificent views of Deo Tibba peak and its huge hanging glaciers. This is a spectacular view that haunts every trekker giving a unique experience. This trek is suitable for all age groups with moderate level of difficulty. The normal route to Deo Tibba base camp starts from Jagatsukh, 6 km south of Manali. Jagatsukh is a small village, which is the last motor able point for Track to Deo Tibba. The total duration of this trek is 5 days. The first stretch of the hike is from Jagatsukh Village to Khanol (6 km from Jagatsukh) that is located at an elevation of 2,200 meters. This trek goes along the Jagatsukh nallah upwards through green forests with an amazing variety of vegetation dot the way to reach Khanol. The Manali valley appears far below and to the east lies the mighty mountain - Deo Tibba. There is an overnight stay in camp. The trek route continues to Chikka (8 km from Khanol), ...

56. Jana Falls

At a distance of 12 km from Naggar, 32 km from Manali, and 33 km from Kullu, Jana Falls is a beautiful natural waterfall situated at Jana village near Manali. It is one of the best waterfalls near Delhi, and among the must-include places in Manali holiday packages . Jana Waterfall is a 30 feet high waterfall surrounded by deodar trees, pine trees, apple orchards, and spectacular snow-covered mountain peaks. The first sight of the falls is quite hidden and will be a surprise for the visitor as the water unexpectedly rushes from a cluster of rocks overlooking a wooden bridge. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing bath at this waterfall. It is one of the best sightseeing places in Manali . The falls can also be reached by a short drive from Naggar. There are 2-3 buses per day between Naggar and Jana village. The first bus from Naggar departs at 8:30 AM. Otherwise, you can take a private taxi from Naggar. After reaching the location one has to trek for about 10-15 minutes from the nearest road point. The road towards Jana waterfalls is breathtakingly beautiful. The climb is easier compared to many others in the region and can be completed by beginner-level hikers too. One can trek up the hill to reach the top of the hill which provides a better view of the waterfall and its lovely surroundings. September to June is the ideal time to visit the ...

57. Naggar Castle

At a distance of 20 km from Manali, and 22 km from the Kullu, the Naggar Castle is a famous castle located in Naggar. It is one of the best heritage places in Himachal , and among the not to miss in during your Manali tour . Naggar Castle is a magnificent historical structure that overlooks the Kullu valley. The castle was built by Raja Sidhi Singh in 1460 AD. The Castle was used as a Royal residence and state headquarters until the British took over the whole Kangra and Kullu from Sikh's in 1846. Raja Gyan Singh sold it to the first assistant commissioner, Major Hay for a Gun. The northern wing of the castle was later converted to the European way of living by putting in staircase, fire place and chimneys. He later sold it to the Government when it was used as a courthouse. In 1947, with the departure of the British the court-activity ceased. The castle was built in an impressive combination of European and Himalayan architectural styles. The castle has traditional architecture called Kathkooni, which uses a combination of stones and wooden beams. In the year 1978, the castle was converted into a rest house and more recently into a heritage hotel that is run by Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC). The Naggar Castle has been recently renovated while keeping its heritage structure intact. It is one of the famous Manali sightseeing places . There ...

58. Pin Valley National Park

At a distance of 249 km from Manali, and 437 km from Shimla, the Pin Valley National Park is located in the Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the most beautiful national parks in India ,and among the prime place to visit as part of Manali packages . Situated in the cold desert area of Lahaul and Spiti, the Pin Valley National Park was declared as a national park in 1987 as part of the Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area. The park is located in the desert habitat of the Spiti Valley, within the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve, in the Himalayas region. Spreading south of Dhankar Gompa near the Tibetan border, the park marks the border between the formerly separate districts of Lahaul and Spiti. Among the famous places of wildlife in Himachal , the park's core zone is stretched over 675 square km and the overall zone extends over 1150 square km. The elevation of the park ranges from about 3500 m near Ka Dogri to more than 6000 m at its highest point. It is home to 20 species of animals and birds, including the endangered Snow Leopard. Besides snow leopard, Siberian ibex, bharal, weasel, red fox, marten are other animals that are the highlight of the park. It is home to birds like pika, snow cock, bearded vulture, chukor, golden eagle, griffon, and raven. Even though it's high altitude and cold ...

59. Rahala Falls

At a distance of 29 km from Manali Bus Stand, 23 km from Rohtang Pass and 15.5 km from Kothi Village, Rahala Falls is a waterfall located on the way to Rohtang Pass from Manali . It is one of the best waterfalls in Himachal state. Rahala Waterfall is a magnificent waterfall located on Leh - Manali Highway. This fall is situated at an altitude of 2501 m. It is generally believed to be the outcome of melting of glaciers and so the water of this fall is extremely cold. Rahala Waterfalls is situated in a very pristine area surrounded with dense growth of silver birch and deodar. The area around the Rahala Waterfalls is absolutely marvelous and the location also allows a picture perfect view of the snowcapped Himalayas. The best time to visit this gorgeous fall is from March to October when maximum water gorges down the rocks. Owing to its mesmerizing beauty, this waterfall has emerged as one of the most frequented tourist attractions in Manali. The waterfalls is adjacent to Leh - Manali Highway and easily accessible.

60. Rohtang Pass

At a distance of 43 km from Solang Valley, and 52 km from Manali, Rohtang Pass is a high mountain pass located on Manali - Leh Highway (NH-21) at an altitude of 4111 m (13,400 ft). It is one of the most popular adventurous places in Himachal , and among the major Manali places to visit . Rohtang Pass is a high mountain pass on the eastern Pir Pangal Range of the Himalayas. It is the gateway to Lahaul, Spiti, Pangi, and Leh valley. The pass is on the watershed between the water basins of the Chenab River and the Beas River. The word 'Rohtang' is literary means 'pile of corpses'. People die all the time due to bad weather while trying to cross the Pass. It is one of the best places to experience snow in the summer season in Himachal. Rohtang Pass is a very beautiful and popular spot in Manali with more than 25 lakh visitors every year as part of Manali tour . The Pass offers a panoramic and spectacular mountain view. This pass was once served as an important trade route. It is an ancient trade route between the people on either side of Pir Panjal. The move to control traffic was also necessary as the Lahaul and Spiti valley gets connected by road for only three months (July to September) in a year. This is the time when people from Lahul valley transport their cash crop, potatoes, and ...

61. Solang Valley

At a distance of 12 km from Manali Bus Stand, Solang Valley locally known as Solang is a beautiful valley situated at Solang village near Manali, Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the most well-known places to visit near Delhi for skiing, mountaineering, and trekking activities. Among the top tourist attractions in Manali , Solang Valley is situated between Solang village and Beas Kund. It lies at an altitude of 8500 ft and is covered with green dense forests. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding snowcapped mountains and glaciers. The beauty of Solang Valley is unparalleled and many people visit the valley every year during their Manali trip just to enjoy its pristine, snow-white magnificence, especially in winter, when the entire place is covered by white snow. With the groves of emerald green trees dotting the pure white landscape, clear blue skies, and magnificent mountains, Solang is truly at its most splendorous in winters. Besides admiring its unmissable picturesque landscapes, people also visit Solang Valley to enjoy various winter sports. Solang Valley has fine ski slopes. The Mountaineering Institute of Manali has installed a ski lift for training purpose here. The Directorate of Mountaineering & Allied Sports also organizes basic, advance, and intermediate level courses in ...

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Himachal Pradesh, located in northern India, is a state known for its picturesque landscapes, serene atmosphere, and rich cultural heritage. There are several popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh that are worth visiting. These include Shimla, the state capital, known for its colonial architecture and breathtaking natural beauty. Manali, a popular destination for adventure sports and trekking, is surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Dharamshala is a hill station that offers an opportunity to explore Tibetan culture and Buddhism, as it is home to the Dalai Lama. Kullu is known for its picturesque landscapes and adventure sports. Kinnaur is a remote district known for its beautiful landscapes, temples, and monasteries. Chamba is another district known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Lahaul & Spiti is a remote district known for its rugged landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Mcleodganj is a destination for Tibetan culture and Buddhism. These destinations offer a great opportunity to explore the natural beauty, culture, heritage and adventure activities of Himachal Pradesh.

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

23 Nov 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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Tourist Places in Himachal Pradesh

Here are the top 84 places to visit in himachal pradesh in 2024:.

1 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 51 Tourist attractions

With spectacular valleys, breathtaking views, snowcapped mountains, and lush forests of oak, deodar, and pine, Manali is a magical hill station at the northern end of Kullu valley in Himachal Pradesh. Gifted to the world by the mighty Himalayas, it is known to be one of the most popular destinations...

Best Time: October to June

2 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 28 Tourist attractions

Kasol is a quaint little village in Himachal situated along the banks of the river Parvati. Commonly known as the 'Amsterdam of India', Kasol is a tourist attraction that is rapidly gaining fame as a popular hub for trekkers, backpackers, and nature lovers. The valley is situated 23 kms from Bh...

3 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 63 Tourist attractions

Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and a popular hill-station among Indian families and honeymooners. Situated at the height of 2200m, it was the summer capital of British India. The hill station still retains its old-world charm with beautiful colonial architecture, pedestrian...

4. Mcleodganj

4 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 42 Tourist attractions

Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh is one of the most popular tourist destinations for it's tibetan culture, nature treks, greenery, ancient temples & monasteries, and british influence. Located in the Kangra district, it's on the outskirts of Dharamshala.Famous for being home to the Tibetan spir...

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Best Tour Package in India: Shimla Kullu Manali

Manali volvo tour package - excursion to solang valley, relaxing manali getaway for 4 nights - rohtang pass, delhi shimla manali dharamshala tour package, manali tour package from shimla with amritsar.

Shimla Honeymoon Package for Couples

5. Spiti Valley

5 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 37 Tourist attractions

Long winding roads and valleys that present unforgettable glimpses of cold desert and snow-crowned mountains welcome you when you set foot into Spiti Valley. Bordered on all sides by the Himalayas, Spiti Valley, located in Himachal Pradesh, has an altitude of 12,500 feet above sea level, and gets ju...

Best Time: Mid May to Mid Oct

6. Dalhousie

6 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 28 Tourist attractions

Dalhousie is a popular hill station spread out over five hills in Himachal Pradesh boasting views of the snow-capped peaks of the Dhauladhar ranges. Famous for its meadows, dense forests, and waterfalls, it is especially a favourite amongst honeymooners and family vacationers.

Best Time: Throughout the year

7. Bir Billing

7 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 29 Tourist attractions

Situated in the picturesque Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, Bir Billing is a charming town nestled in the Joginder Nagar valley. Renowned globally as a paragliding hotspot, Bir is also revered as a haven for meditation and spiritual studies. Influenced by Tibetan culture due to the settlem...

Best Time: March - May; September - November

8 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 12 Tourist attractions

Kasauli, a serene hill station in Himachal Pradesh, offers breathtaking panoramic views of lush green valleys and snow-capped peaks from its altitude of 1,900 meters above sea level. Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, it's an ideal escape from city life, known for its pleasant weather year-round...

Best Time: March - June; September - November

9 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 12 Tourist attractions

Located in the rugged landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, Kaza stands as the administrative capital of the remote Spiti Valley. Nestled amidst towering mountains and barren deserts, Kaza offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, making it a must-visit destination for adventurous tra...

Best Time: May to September

10 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh

Located in the serene valleys of Himachal Pradesh, Jibhi is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil retreat amidst nature's bounty. Situated in the Banjar Valley, Jibhi is known for its breathtaking landscapes, lush greenery, and serene ambiance, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solace a...

Best Time: October to May

Best tourist destinations & places in Himachal Pradesh

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Hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh For A Cool Himalayan Getaway

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Best Things To Do in Himachal Pradesh

Paragliding in Himachal Pradesh

11. Dharamshala

11 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 38 Tourist attractions

Dharamshala is a beautiful hill town in the Dhauladhar range of Himalayas. It is the winter capital of Himachal Pradesh and is located in the upper slopes of the Kangra valley. Once known as a british hill station during the colonial era, Dharamsala soon became occupied by Tibetan communities and is...

12. Sethan Valley

12 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh

Sethan is a quaint village in Himachal Pradesh, approximately 12 km from Manali. This Buddhist village is a tiny hamlet that oversees the Dhauladhar range. Covered in snow during winters, Sethan Valley is a great place to try out skiing and snowboarding.

13. Khajjiar

13 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 14 Tourist attractions

Often referred to as 'mini-Switzerland of India', Khajjiar is a small town located close (20km) to Dalhousie and is great for a day or overnight trip. Khajjiar is known for its picture perfect grassy meadows.There is the Khajjiar Lake in the middle of the meadow and you could enj...

14 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 13 Tourist attractions

Kufri is a quaint little hill town 20km away from Shimla,Himachal Pradesh. Earlier known to be the summer retreat for the British in 1819, Kufri still harbors its past through the colonial buildings and architecture around. With its pleasant summer weather and winter snowfall, Kufri is flocked by to...

Best Time: November to March

15 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh

Triund is an easy trek in Himachal Pradesh that offers you an escape into the majestic Himalayas. Situated a few kilometres from Dharamshala at an altitude of 2828 m, it is a place perfect for trekking with amazing trails offering scenic views of the entire Kangra Valley. A trek to Triund is short a...

16 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh

Isolated from the rest of the world lies a solitary village in Malana Nala, which is a side valley of the Parvati Valley. Known as Malana or the Malana Village, it is located in the Kullu district. Widely known for its strong culture and religious beliefs, with various sentiments embedded ...

17 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh

Popular for its cannabis plantations, the tranquil village of Tosh is just another example of the unparalleled natural beauty that Himachal Pradesh holds within its bounds. Located at the far end of Parvati Valley, Tosh is untouched by modernisation and fast-paced life. With its gradual terrain...

18 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 11 Tourist attractions

Chail is a quiet hill station close (44km) to Shimla, known for the world's highest cricket ground and a heritage hotel, Chail Palace. Surrounded by pine and deodar trees, Chail is located at an altitude of 2,250m above sea level.

19. Tirthan Valley

19 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 7 Tourist attractions

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, Tirthan Valley is a hidden gem awaiting discovery by avid travelers and nature enthusiasts. Located in the Kullu district, approximately 60 kilometers from the popular hill station of Manali, Tirthan Valley offers a tranquil escape from the hustl...

Best Time: Mar to June, October to November

20 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 29 Tourist attractions

Quietly situated by the Beas River, Kullu is a cluster of beautiful valleys in Himachal, and that's mainly why it's known as the 'Valley of Gods.' Known for the deodar trees, snow-clad mountains, and apple orchards, Kullu is usually coupled with its sister town Manali, hence a favorite among tourist...

Best Time: March to June

Best Tourist Attractions in Himachal Pradesh

Solang Valley

Rohtang Pass

Mall Road, Shimla

Namgyal Monastery

Hidimba Temple

21. Palampur

21 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 11 Tourist attractions

Nestled amidst the lush green landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, Palampur is a charming town renowned for its picturesque beauty, serene ambiance, and pleasant weather. Located in the Kangra Valley, Palampur is often referred to as the "Tea Capital of North India" due to its vast tea gardens and planta...

Best Time: March -June; September - November

22. Narkanda

22 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 11 Tourist attractions

Surrounded by tropical forests, majestic hills and woodlands, Narkanda is a quaint little town 63 kms away from Shimla district which is popular for skiing in winters. This hill station connects Shimla to the valleys of Kinnaur and Spiti and receives snowfall in abundance during winters.&n...

23. Prashar Lake Trek

23 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh

Prashar Lake is a crystal clear water body situated about 50 km north of Mandi, with a three storied pagoda-like temple dedicated to the sage Prashar. The lake is located at the height of 2730 m above sea level with deep blue waters and holds a saintly position there. Bounded by snow-toppe...

24 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh

Sissu, also known as Khwaling, is a picturesque village located on the banks of Chandra River in Lahaul Valley. At an altitude of about 3200 m, and only 6 km away from the North end of the recently opened Atal Tunnel, Sissu attracts tourists all-year long. The village is surrounded by snow-capped mo...

Best Time: April to August

25 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 11 Tourist attractions

Set against the backdrop of majestic hills and the clear and pristine Beas River, Naggar near Manali is home to a tiny slice of history, in the form of the Naggar castle. Once used as the residence of Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu, the castle is a fine blend of traditional Himalayan and European architec...

26. Sarahan

26 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh

Sarahan is a beautiful hamlet situated near Kinnaur in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Known as the "Gateway to Kinnaur", it is located near the Sutlej River Valley and the Indo Tibetan road, at an altitude of 2165 m below sea level. Famous for the never-ending apple orchards, dense emerald pine and ...

27 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh

Jispa is a village on the banks of the Bhaga River in the Lahaul and Spiti District, and is located at a distance of 20 km from Keylong and about 92.3 km from Manali. Even though Jispa is often considered as a pitstop on the Manali - Leh route, the scenic beauty of the place, surrounded by snow-capp...

Best Time: April to September

28 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 10 Tourist attractions

Nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh, Kalpa is a serene and picturesque destination that offers a glimpse into the mesmerizing beauty of the Himalayas. Located at an altitude of 2,960 meters above sea level, Kalpa is renowned for its breathtaking views of the...

Best Time: March to June; October - November

29. Parvati Valley

29 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 10 Tourist attractions

Situated in Himachal Pradesh, Parvati Valley runs along the touristy destinations of the state. The stunning valley is famous for the backpacker hangouts, and adventure activities. It is also a popular amongst hippie travellers for its famous charas (hashish), rave parties, and spiritual experience.

30 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh

Situated at an elevation of 2500 meters, Fagu is a serene snow-clad hamlet, located around 45 minutes drive from Shimla. It is known for its apple plantations, sowing fields and the snow-covered Himalayas in the backdrop. Since it is secluded, Fagu is a honeymooner's heaven. It also popular amongst ...

31. Kinnaur

31 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 12 Tourist attractions

Nestled in the eastern part of Himachal Pradesh, Kinnaur is located on the Indo-Tibet border offering a unique blend of Indian and Tibetan cultures. Kinnaur hosts the views of Zanskar Valley, snow-draped Dhauladar range, Chitkul - the last village on the indo-Tibet border and have Satluj, Baspa and ...

Best Time: April to June; September, October

32 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 23 Tourist attractions

Kangra is a district in Himachal Pradesh with Dharamshala as the administrative headquarters. With might Beas River flowing through the Valley, Kangra is also known for the backdrop of Dhauladar range, ancient temples and endless tea plantations. Repeated mention of the Valley in the holy Hindu text...

Best Time: September to June

33. Keylong

33 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh

Keylong is located on the banks of River Bhaga, in the Lahaul and Spiti district. It is also the administrative center of the district, and houses most of the Government offices in Lahaul Valley. Keylong was rightly described by Rudyard Kipling as “surely the Gods live here, this is no place for men...

Best Time: May to August

34. Rohtang Pass

34 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh

Located at a distance of just 51 kilometres from Manali, Rohtang Pass can be reached only by road. The pass is located at a massive height of 3978 metres on Manali- Keylong road. When planning a trip to Manali, a day off to the vista point of Rohtang Pass is the ultimate and almost essential attract...

35 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 12 Tourist attractions

Located just 13 kilometers from Shimla, Shoghi is a quaint hill station in Himachal Pradesh, nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Himalayan foothills. The key reason to visit Shoghi is its serene and tranquil ambiance, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its pi...

36 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 18 Tourist attractions

Chamba is a Himalayan town located in Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. Known for the ancient temples, the caves, and the edifices that speak highly of Indian history, Chamba is famous for mesmerising views of the Pir Panjal, Zanskar and Dhauladhar ranges in the backdrop of this picture...

37. Tattapani

37 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 9 Tourist attractions

Located in Himachal Pradesh, Tattapani is a picturesque destination renowned for its natural hot water springs. Situated along the banks of the Sutlej River, Tattapani offers visitors a unique opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in its therapeutic hot springs. The location, approximately 51 kilomete...

38 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 18 Tourist attractions

Packed with a thick green cover of pine and deodar trees, the town of Mandi is situated at the junction of Kullu and Dharamshala. It is often referred to as 'Varanasi of Hills', or 'Choti Kashi' as the town has as many as 81 temples spread across its area.

Best Time: April to October

39. Manikaran Sahib

39 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 3 Tourist attractions

Located in the Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Manikaran Sahib is a significant religious site for both Sikhs and Hindus. Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of the Himalayas, this pilgrimage destination is renowned for its hot springs, gurudwara, and ancient temples. The key reason to visit Manika...

40. Indrahar Pass Trek

40 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh

The trek to Indrahar Pass is a fairly easy one, being the most picturesque trail starting from Mcleodganj, covering Lahesh and Triund Caves, and lasts about 14 km single way.

41 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 21 Tourist attractions

Away from the buzzing crowd of the city, Nahan is a perfect romantic getaway. Lying among the lofty Shivalik range overlooking lush green fields, dirt free roads and clean streets, this small hill station serves as an ideal holiday destination.

42 out of 84 Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh 5 Tourist attractions

Shojha is a small village sitting quietly in the middle of wilderness and panorama. Its untouched beauty might be just the thing that you need to relax and unwind. Located amid the Banjar Valley, the village is dotted with several temples made of wood.

Best Time: April to June

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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.

Friends, if you enjoy travelling to Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and you are looking for a place to stay close to Manali, I highly recommend it. The reason for this is that after visiting the website, you will fall in love. Here is the link to the website – http://www.mozohostel.com/ , so feel free to visit if you would like. Give Mojo Hostel owner Babu Bhaiya a call directly; his number is listed on the website – http://www.mozohostel.com/Contact Babu Bhaiya, the owner of Mozo Hostel, directly using the number that appears on the website.

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Online Bus Reservation

Luxury buses of HPTDC are available from New Delhi to major destiations of Himachal Pradesh as well as for local sight seeing tours. Presently, online reservation is available from New Delhi to Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala and vice versa. Online booking can be done upto 2 hours prior to departure of the bus. After this, tickets can be booked from HPTDC counters or direct in the bus, in case seats are available. Full/ partial cancellation is allowed upto 12 hours before departure of the bus.

click here FOR ONLINE BUS BOOKING  

click here for detail of boarding places and journey time

Conducted Tours by HPTDC Luxury Coaches

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Himachal Pradesh Tourism Corp announces discounts on hotel rates during monsoon

Amidst the monsoon season, the himachal pradesh tourism development corporation (hptdc) on wednesday announced discounts on its hotel rates from july 25 to september 13, 2024..

Amidst the monsoon season, the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) on Wednesday announced discounts on its hotel rates from July 25 to September 13, 2024. The announcement was made by issuing a notice to managers and incharges of all HPTDC Hotel units.

The reason behind the discounts is the low occupancy of hotels during the monsoon season. The issued notice reads, "Keeping in view the low occupancy during upcoming months in HPTDC it has been decided to offer monsoon discount in HPTDC Hotel Units w.e.f 15th July 2024 to 13th September 2024."

The discount applied on the following hotels are - 20 per cent on Tourist Inn (Rewalsar), Hotel Sarvari (Kullu), Yatri Niwas (Chamunda), Chintpuri Heights (Chintpurni), Hotel The Neugal (Palampur), Jawalaji Hotel (Jawalamukhi), Hotel Chanshal (Rohru) and Hotel Shrikhand (Sarahan). Meanwhile, the 30 per cent discount is applied on the hotels such as Hotel Giriganga (Kharapathar), Hotel Kunal (Dharamshala), Hotel Devdhar (Khajjair), Tourist Inn (Rajgarh), Hotel Kunzam (Manali), Hotel Peterhoff (Shimla), Hotel Club House (Mcleodganj), The Castle (Naggar), Hotel Bhagsu (Mcleodganj), Ros Comman (Kasauli), Hotel T-Bud (Palampur), Hotel Pinewood (Barog ), The HHH (Shimla), Hotel Uhl (Jogindernagar), Hotel Renuka (Renukaji), Camping Site (Pong Dam) and Yamuna(Paonta Sahib).

The 40 per cent discount is applied on the hotels of Hotel Dhauladhar (Dharamshala) and Hotel Hatu (Narkanda). (ANI)

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India’s Travel Sector Has Recovered, But International Is Still a Pain Point

Bulbul Dhawan , Skift

July 4th, 2024 at 12:01 AM EDT

India is cementing its position as a significant source market for travel across the world. However, on its own turf, all is not well.

Bulbul Dhawan

India’s travel and tourism sector has recovered significantly, according to a new report from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), but international travel spend in India continues to remain below pre-Covid levels. 

The WTTC report revealed:

• The travel and tourism sector’s contribution to Indian GDP stood at INR 19.13 trillion ($230 billion) in 2023, nearly 10% increase over 2019 levels. 
• Employment in the industry increased 8% to 43 million. 
• Domestic tourist spending was INR 14.64 trillion ($175 billion) last year, up 15% from pre-Covid levels. 
• International visitor spending was over 14% behind the 2019 levels. 

Key Role of Domestic Tourism

Consulting firm McKinsey and Company had earlier projected that India will become the fourth-largest domestic travel market in terms of spending by 2030.

Online travel agency EaseMyTrip co-founder Rikant Pittie agreed with the WTTC report. He said, “Domestic travel and the tourism sector, in recent times, has become the backbone of India’s economic growth, especially with the government’s focus on promoting India as an equivalent to a global destination.”

According to recent data from aviation analytics firm OAG, India is now the third-largest domestic aviation market, after the U.S. and China. India’s domestic air passenger traffic in 2023-24 also surpassed pre-Covid levels , 

Earlier this year, Hyatt Hotels CEO Mark Hoplamazian also spoke about his company’s focus on India, specifically its domestic travelers. “The country’s leisure travel market is primarily driven by Indians traveling within India and discovering the country,” he said .

“The Indian market started seeing a rebound since the end of last year with the leisure hotel segment leading the way. Especially post Covid, India inbound became the buzzword. Indian travelers also started finding India more appealing due to the joint effect of increased marketing efforts and high international airfares,” said Arindam C Bahel, general manager of The Fern Brentwood Resort, Mussoorie. 

2024 Outlook for Tourism in India

According to the WTTC report, the tourism industry in India is projected to be ahead of 2019 by the end of this year across four metrics: Contribution to Indian economy, employment, domestic visitor spending, and international visitor spending.

It estimates that:

• The sector will contribute almost INR 21.15 trillion ($253 billion) to India’s GDP in 2024. 
• Jobs in the industry will increase by 2.45 million this year, equaling one in 11 jobs in India. 
• International visitor spending will grow more than 17%. 
• Domestic visitor spending will increase by nearly 10%.

There are risks to these projections, however: During the peak domestic travel period in summer, a record number of travelers left due to the heatwave in North India . The extreme weather condition also led to a nearly 40% decline in sale of inbound flights in May from April 2024.

Pain Points

Despite these strong projections from WTTC, Sarovar Hotels and Resorts managing director Ajay Bakaya has shared a different perspective. 

“2023 was a phenomenal year. Our domestic tourists went up everywhere we were operating. We have seen changes in 2024. We had a really good first quarter from January to March, and April witnessed reasonable growth. But we have some places that have seen a decline in May and June. It could be the elections, but the results were far below expectations and budgets,” he said, adding that he hopes for it to be a short-term blip. 

Bakaya also shared that while the overall tourism sector in India has been performing well, the picture is not so favorable for hill stations. “All across Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, tourism this year has been below 2022 and 2023 levels. The reason is that our outbound travel is now healthier and stronger due to more options, easier visas, and more economical flights.” 

He believes that in the long-term hill stations will go back to pre-Covid levels of reasonable business, but won’t witness a booming business. Goa, he explained, is also not seeing the growth that it should as probably the top tourism destination in India. “So, the picture is very good and very positive, but it is not all hunky dory. We’ll have some challenges before we scale the peak,” he said. 

Meanwhile, international inbound is lagging. And India has slashed its global tourism promotion budget by 97% .

Bakaya said, “We’re all pinning our hopes on what happens starting October 2024 (the inbound tourism season in India), but so far we have seen very little inbound travel. It has been disappointing.”

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Tags: domestic tourism , easemytrip , Hyatt Hotels , india , india outbound , india travel , international tourism , international travel , mark hoplamazian , sarovar hotels , tourism , Travel industry , Travel Trends , wttc

Photo credit: According to the WTTC report, the tourism industry in India will be ahead of 2019 by the end of 2024. Godson Bright / Pexels

In Sudha Murty's First Rajya Sabha Speech, A Mention Of Cancer, Tourism

In her maiden speech in the Rajya Sabha, Sudha Murty pressed for a government-sponsored vaccination programme to combat cervical cancer.

Sudha Murty pitched for 57 domestic tourist sites to be considered as World Heritage Sites

Author and philanthropist Sudha Murty spoke in the Rajya Sabha for the first time yesterday after taking oath as the member of the Parliament.

"There is a vaccination which is given to girls, between the age of nine to 14, known as a cervical vaccination. If the girls take that, it (cancer) can be avoided," Ms Murty said.

The government has handled a very "big vaccination drive during Covid" so it may not be very difficult to provide cervical vaccination to girls in the age group of 9-14 years, Ms Murty said.

Ms Murty also pitched for 57 domestic tourist sites to be considered as World Heritage Sites.

Listing the important ones, Ms Murty said, "there is a marvellous statue of Bahubali at Shravanabela Gola in Karnataka. There are group of monuments in Mandu in Madhya Pradesh who are very very beautiful. If you go to East, you have Tripura state and they have fantastic sculputure known as Unakoti, natural roots bridge in Mizoram and eastern part of India which is God's gift to us."

"There are beautiful Mughal gardens in Kashmir. We always go and see the film shootings, but we never realise that they are not in the World Heritage Sites. The package should be done very well so that people can come and see them," she said.

Sudha Murty was nominated by President Droupadi Murmu to the upper House earlier this year on International Women's Day.

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The President of India nominates 12 members to the Upper House of the Parliament for their contributions towards arts, literature, sciences, and social services.

She received the Padma Bhushan - the third-highest civilian award in India - for social work last year and Padma Shri in 2006.

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