Best Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh is a northern Indian state in the Himalayas. It's home to scenic mountain towns and resorts such as Dalhousie. Host to the Dalai Lama, Himachal Pradesh has a strong Tibetan presence. This is reflected in its Buddhist temples and monasteries, as well as its vibrant Tibetan New Year celebrations. The region is also well known for its trekking, climbing and skiing areas.

Top Tourist Places in Himachal Pradesh:

Manali – Hub for Adventure Lovers

Scooter Ride, Manali

Bestowed with the nature’s precious beauty, Manalihas so much to offer to its tourists. It is located at a height of about 2050 meters above sea level. Not just the alpine scenery, the lush green forests and the snow clad lofty mountains lure the visitors but it is an ideal place for indulging in adventure sports. We assure you that Manali will make you capture its eternal natural beauty on foot. Most notable places to visit in Manali include Hidimba Devi Temple, Gulaba Camp, Malana Valley, Solang Valley and Rahala Falls.

Best time to visit Manali is from September till December and from February till April. Manali is an ideal destination for summer holiday and nearby there are adventure sport ops like river rafting and Para gliding in Bir Billing. Honeymooners head to Rohtang Pass to indulge in snow sport activities.

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Rohtang Pass-Your Playground of Snow

Rohtang Pass, Manali

Rohtang Pass is a beautiful mountain pathway which is well-known for offering spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks. Situated at a distance of 51 km from Manali, Rohtang Pass is set at an elevation of 4111 m above sea level.  Rohtang Pass is a great place to indulge in activities like Paragliding, Mountain biking, Paragliding and Skiing. The scenic beauty and tranquility of the place make it a popular attraction of Himachal Pradesh. Rohtang Pass opens with the coming of May and closes in September as it receives heavy snowfall throughout the rest of the year.

Shimla- Queen of Hills

Shimla Hill

Counted amongest the most famous hill stations of North India, Shimla is blessed with the unconquerable beauty of nature and forms a part of most Himachal Pradesh tour packages and one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in India.The summer capital of India was discovered by the British Government in 1819 and since then, the place continues to attract tourist all the year around.

Other than the natural beauty, the Victorian style buildings exhibit the breathtaking beauty of this hill town. Owing to its salubrious weather and breathtaking vistas, Shimla is named as the ‘Queen of the Hills’. Popular tourist places in Shimla include The Mall, Chadwick Falls, The Ridge and Jakhu Temple.

Shimla could be visited anytime of the year but from December till February, there’s snowfall in Shimla which attracts newlywed quite too much. Families head to Shimla for summer holidays whereas youngsters and working people from Delhi escape to this scenic hill station as a preferred weekend getaway from Delhi.

Kufri-The Picture Perfect Station

A picturesque hill station near Shimla and the most popular among snow lovers of Himachal Pradesh, Kufri was founded in 1819 by British who were spell bounded by the natural beauty and salubrious weather. A small distance form Shimla city, the capital of the state, the hill station has earned fame for being a skiing hotspot. It is home to oldest skiing slopes in the mountain state. Its gentle slopes are perfect for skiing and receives skiers from all over the world. An annual winter sports festival held in February, is organized by the travel and tourism department of Himachal Pradesh. Apart from skiing, adventures activities like tobogganing (sliding downhill on a sled) are quite exciting. A haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers as the Himalayan Nature Park is situated on the outskirts of the town.

The beautiful hill station can be visited throughout the year but if your reason is skiing, best visit between December and February.

Kasauli-Pure Weekend Getaway

Kasauli is a beautiful hill town full of relics of the British Raj. Nestled about 1950 meters above sea level in the Shivaliks, the hill station of Himachal Pradesh definitely calls for a visit. Leave all stress behind, breathe in the fresh pine-scented air. The misty ambience, the pretty walks and the spectacular views makes Kasauli a memorable experience. At 3647 meters the snowcapped peaks of Choor Chandini stand majestically among the lower hills.

The highest point in Kasauli, known as Manki point is home to a Hanuman temple. The views are spectacular from here. The hill town enjoys proximity to other picturesque picnic spots in Himachal. The climate of Kasauli is salubrious around the year. Summers are pleasant and winter receive occasional snowfall, the monsoons are no less charming as playful clouds and mist surrounds you. Visit the hilly town anytime of the year and get charmed by its beauty.

Khajjiar-A Retreat to Beat the Heat

Khajjiar Lake

Also referred to as the ‘Mini-Switzerland of India’, Khajjiar is small and beautiful hill station, set amid thick green forests and fields. Offering complete treat to the eyes with its breathtaking locations, Khajjiar is a must visit for nature lovers. It is a great option if you wish for a rejuvenating holiday.Set at a distance of around 23 km form Dalhousie, Khajjiar is located at an elevation of 6,430 ft. A great retreat to beat the heat in summers, Khajjiar is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh. Take a stroll around those thick pine forests and soak in the scenic beauty of the destination.

To enjoy the most of this destination, it is best to visit in between the months of July and December when the weather remains cool and pleasant. It is the perfect time to enjoy sightseeing.

Dharamshala-Nature at its Best

Villages in Dharamshala

Immensely popular as a hill station and pilgrim destination, Dharamshala is a paradise for nature lovers, camping lovers and photographers. The seat of the Dalai Lama, Dharamshala showcases a unique world, inspired by the Dalai Lama and Buddhism. The hill station is split in two parts, lower Dharamshala and upper Dharamshala, which is known as McLeod Ganj. Popular attractions of Dharamshala include Kangra Fort, Bhagsunag Fall, Tsuglagkhang Complex, Tibet Museum, Naam Art Gallery, Dharamkot and Kunal Pathari Temple.

The best time to visit Dharamshala is from the month of January to May and October to December. The weather remains cool, which is perfect for a great vacation with family and friends.

McLeod Ganj- The Little Lhasa

Tenzin Gyatso Monastery, Mcleodganj.

Situated in the beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh, McLeod Ganj, one of the popular hill stations in India, is the residence of Dalai Lama, the chief of exiled Tibetan Government. The arresting beauty of this place fascinates tourists coming from different parts of the world. It is located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, at an altitude of 2,082 meters above sea level. This town is named after Lord David Mcleod, the lieutenant Governor of Punjab, and plays host to a population of around 10,000 people which includes majority of Tibetans. The region is also famous for its monasteries, handicrafts and culture.

The major draw of McLeodganj is the Tsuglagkhang, the center of Tibetan Government in exile and the seat of Dalai Lama. McLeodganj also draws a lot of international visitors who come here to volunteer every year.For adventure enthusiasts, there a lot of hiking and trekking routes in Himalayas that begins from McLeodganj.Trek to Indrahaar Pass and Kareri Lake and Lam Dal are the most famous routes among the hikers.

Bir Billing-Adventure Begins Here!

Bir and Billing in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh are extremely popular destination for adventure sport. Hosting the World Paragliding Championship every year, Bir Billing in Himachal lures the world for paragliding. The take-off site is at Billing and the landing site is Bir and the overall altitude change is around 800 m. Bir has a major Tibetan community settlement. It is also an important center of spiritual studies and meditation. The hub of adventure-sports activities in Himachal Pradesh, Bir Billing sticks to all standards of safety. Trekking lovers also can enjoy trekking around Bir Billing. Besides this, the Deer Park and the Bir Tea Factory is also famous attractions in Bir Billing. 

Chail- Slice of Paradise

Chail, Himachal Pradesh

Chail is more serene and famed as a paradise for honeymooners as well as for hikers. People from different corners of our country love to spend their honeymoon here in Chail. This tiny hill resort provides immense scope for honeymooners to completely suffuse with the sweet feeling of love. Some worth visiting places in Chail include Sidh Baba ka Mandir, Chail Sanctuary, Palace Sanctuary and Polo Ground.

Kullu- An Outstanding Summer Retreat

Water Rafting in Beas River, Kullu

One of the most popular tourist destinations in India, Kullu is explored by many tourists as a valley of faith. Kullu is one of the most affable and magnetic tourist destinations in India. Located on the banks of River Beas, at an altitude of 1230 meters, Kullu allows tourists to witness the beauty of nature from close quarters. The valley is also famous for its exquisitely woven colorful handmade shawls and Kullu caps.

One of the best places for Eco tourism and wildlife vacation in Himachal Pradesh is the Great Himalayan national Park in Kullu. There are a lot of hiking trails that visitors could take inside this verdant park. Prior permission is required to embark on hiking and trekking inside this wildlife sanctuary.

Dalhousie- Full of Charm and Enjoyment

Bakrota Hill, Dalhousie

One of the oldest hill stations in India, Dalhousie is full of charm and enjoyment. The hill station was named after the famous British Governor ‘Lord Dalhousie’. The effect of colonial architecture is apparent in the buildings of this tiny Indian hill station. It is snuggled between the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges. Dalhousie as a tourist destination invites tourists from different parts of the world throughout the year. Take a stroll through Satdara and Panchpullah and feel the beauty of nature from close quarters.

Other famous attractions in Dalhousie include Kala Tope Khajjiar Sanctuary, Chamera Dam, Jhandrighat and Lower Bakrota Hill.The famous Lower Bakrota Hill serves as a residence to over 50 Tibetan families. If you are planning your trip to this hill station then best time to visit Dalhousie in May. For honeymooners, winter is a preferred time as there is a lot of snow and seclusion.

Chamba – Magnanimous Destination in Himachal

Chamba, Himachal Pradesh

Situated in the Western Himalayas, in the Chambadistrict, Chamba is a small town famous for its natural beauty that touches your soul and senses. The town was founded by Raja Sahil Varman after his conquest over the petty chiefs called Thakurs and Ranas in the beginning of the 10thcentury. The valley offers magnificent sceneries with well-defined snowy ranges providing warmth and hospitality for an easy and comfortable tour.

Lahaul & Spiti-Heavens on Earth

Camping, Lahual Spiti

Located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, Lahaul & Spiti are the two remote regions of Himachal Pradesh that are quite different in character. These two Himachal valleys are a perfect delight for trekkers and tourists. Lahaul and Spiti are located at a height of 3340 meters, in the north eastern part of Himachal Pradesh. Also known as ‘Little Tibet’, the village of Spiti is encompassed by breathtaking snow-clad peaks. There are a number of other monasteries which include Kunzum Pass, Kaza, Losar, Kibber, Gondla and Baralacha La.

This region is also famous for its high altitude lakes which require trekking. The most famous lakes are Suraj Tal near Baralacha La and Chandra Tal near Batal. Chandra Tal also happens to be a Ramsar Site. Trans Himalayan treks are also made from this region from Spiti to Tso Mori Ri in Ladakh.

Malana-The Mountain Freshness 

Malana village in Himachal Pradesh also known as the village of Taboos, the tiny village lies amidst the lush greenery of Parvati valley. The snow-capped mountains are a fitting backdrop. The crystal clear Malana nala flows through the village providing a melody is the only sound in the serene environs. For adventure enthusiasts there are exciting treks to the Deotiba and Chandrakhani Peaks. The secluded heaven has one of the world’s earliest democracy, their own set of primitive rules and culture. Some legends believe that the village inhabitants come from Alexander the Great. Some believe in local deities, but whatever be the cases these people are community loving people.

The best time to visit is the pleasant months from March to September. Winters brings heavy snow and should be avoided.

Kaza-A Captivating Holiday

Trekking in kaza

The district headquarters of Spiti, Kaza is a small and beautiful town, popular among nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Kaza forms an ideal base camp for mountaineering and trekking which are directed towards other parts of the valley. Serene and captivating, Kaza promises a great and memorable holiday set amid its beautiful ambiance. Kaza has much to offer when it comes to tourist attractions. Some popular attractions of Kaza include Sakya Tangyud Monastery, Kibber Village, Gette Village, Langza Village and Pin Valley National Park.

Best time to visit Kaza is from the month of May to September. During these months, the weather remains pleasant which is perfect for a great holiday.

Sangla valley – Wonderland for nature lovers !

Blessed with scenic beauty in abundance, Sangla Valley is also rising as a major tourist destination in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, around 69 km away.  The place serves its visitors with several exotic locations and picturesque scenery and adding on to its charm is the pleasant climate making one’s visit more enthralling. It is no exaggeration to call Sangla valley a wonderland for nature lovers where they can spend hours watching the magnificent views of Himalayas, lush velvet meadows and impeccable landscape. Sangla region is majorly known for growing fine quality apples and potatoes. Other than just spending leisure time in the lap of nature, one can also indulge in trekking, relaxing nature walks and trout fishing. Adventure enthusiasts can also opt for glacier trekking during the months of March and April.

One of the prime attractions near Sangla is Chitkul village that is roughly 22 km away. Not to forget the best buys of the place such as woolen garments, Kinnauri shawls and shining silver jewelry with decorated with Tibetan pearls.

Tabo-The Exotic Outdoors

Alia Bhatt in Tabo for Movie Shoot.

Best known for housing Tabo Monastery, one of the holiest monasteries of India, Tabo is a small town set in the Lahaul and Spiti district. Tabo Monastery complex, the key attraction of Tabo is believed to be 1000 years old. The complex houses a number of temples which feature a number of wall paintings and mud statues. Tsuglhakhang Temple is a major tourist attraction of Tabo. The temple dates back to the 10^th century and is known for its beautiful murals and wall-mounted stucco clay sculptures. Tabo also houses some cave shrines which also date back to the 10^th century. This famous Buddhist pilgrimage site is a must-visit for those who are looking for serenity, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Keylong- A Buddhist Hub

kardang Monastery in Keylong

Keylong is a part of the district headquarters of Lahaul & Spiti. It is located on the main road to Leh over Rohtang Pass. Kardang Monastery is the most important monastery in Keylong. Other popular sites near Keylong include Kardang, Shasur and Tayul monasteries. The annual Lahaul festival that takes place in July is a cultural extravaganza with a big, busy market and a number of cultural activities.