10 Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh
Introduction
Himachal Pradesh is picture-perfect with scenic hill stations, quaint villages, snow-covered mountains, lush valleys, diverse flora and fauna, unspoiled nature, and abundant trekking trails. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, adventurers, and backpackers. Here are our recommendations for the best places to visit in the Land of Snow.
The Following are Top 10 places to visit in Himachal Pradesh:
- Kasol
Kasol is a popular destination for backpackers and hippies for a good reason. Kasol, also considered as the “Little Israel of India,” is a picturesque hamlet on the banks of the Parvati River. The stunning landscape of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, scenic waterfalls, and unspoiled trekking routes makes it a nature lover’s and trekker’s paradise, while the abundance of charming cafes, budget-friendly stay options, and relaxed vibe make it an ideal backpacking destination.
While in the area, visit nearby tiny hamlets like Chalal, known for its trance and psychedelic parties; Malana, known for its Malana Cream (cannabis); and Rasol and Tosh, which are known for their lush greenery and tranquillity.
- Shimla
Shimla, also considered as the Queen of Hills, is a beautiful colonial hill station with picturesque vistas around every corner. When winter arrives, the Queen of Hills’ allure grows exponentially – the entire city is enveloped in snow, a sight to behold! Shimla is a great place to wander and see some of the best colonial-era architecture, including the Viceregal Lodge, Town Hall, Gaiety Theatre, and Christ Church. The city’s location at the foothills of the Himalayas, surrounded by lush greenery and snow-covered mountains, makes it ideal for trekking and other outdoor activities.
- Kasauli
Kasauli, a small colonial town, is located at an elevation of 1,900 meters. The city is small in terms of attractions, commerce, and population. However, that is precisely where its beauty and appeal lie – its pure air, serene and peaceful vibe, and abundance of nature are what draw visitors. The Baptist Church, Christ Church, Kasauli Brewery, Monkey Point, Nahri temple, and Kasauli Club are among the places to visit.
- Dharamshala
Dharamshala, located in the upper reaches of Kangra Valley, has one of the best climates in Himachal. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks of the Dhauladhar mountains and lush pine and deodar forests, the town is rich in cultural and architectural attractions, as well as a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and shops catering to its diverse, multicultural Indian and Tibetan communities. The town also attracts adventurers worldwide due to its abundance of trekking trails, waterfalls, and scenic valleys. McLeod Ganj (India’s Mini Tibet), Dharamkot, Sindhbari, Ramnagar, and Naddi are worth visiting.
- Spiti Valley
Spiti Valley, at an elevation of 3,810 meters, is a remote village in the cold desert mountains. Furthermore, it is surrounded by several high-altitude villages, including Tabo, Kaza, Dhankar, Kibber, Komic, and Langza, which can all be visited during your Spiti trip. Despite its remoteness, many spiritual and adventure tourists flock to Spiti to explore its Buddhist monasteries and participate in thrilling activities such as trekking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, and wildlife spotting.
- Manali
Manali, located at an elevation of 2,050 meters on the River Beas valley, is a picture-perfect hilly retreat that attracts hordes of tourists annually. The picturesque landscape, including lush pine and deodar forests, snow-capped mountains, scenic meadows, waterfalls, and valleys, appeals to adventurers and nature lovers. Alternatively, spiritual seekers are drawn to ancient temples and Tibetan monasteries.
- Chitkul
Chitkul, a small but charming village in Himachal’s Kinnaur district, is possibly the last inhabited village near the Indo-China border. Although there isn’t much to see and do in the hamlet, its scenic landscape of lush green vegetation, snow-laden mountains, and apple orchards, as well as its tranquil vibe, make it an ideal place for those looking to be at one with nature – in peace. Its charming houses, complete with wooden or slate roofs, and a temple that houses the town’s 500-year-old deity are particularly appealing.
- Bir Billing
Despite its small size, Bir Billing is India’s premier paragliding destination. After all, this is the ‘Paragliding Capital of India.’ The location provides panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges’ undulating beauty. Bir Billing has pleasant weather all year and a spectacular landscape that draws thrill seekers and backpackers worldwide.
- Dalhousie
Dalhousie is a year-round vacation destination, but it is beautiful in the winter when the entire hill town is covered in white sheets. Adventure seekers flock to Dalhousie to participate in outdoor activities such as trekking, river rafting, canoeing, kayaking, and camping, surrounded by mountains, cascading waterfalls, lakes, and lush pine and oak trees. At the same time, the tranquil atmosphere and pristine nature entice both nature lovers and peace seekers.
- Khajjiar
Amid dense deodar forests, verdant meadows, and snow-capped Himalayas, Khajjiar is a tiny slice of paradise. Visitors can explore its beautiful scenery, get up close and alpersonal with exotic wildlife at the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, and participate in outdoor activities such as forest trekking, zorbing, horse riding, and paragliding at the Khajjiar Lake. The 12th-century Khaji Nag temple is a must-see here. The temple, dedicated to the Lord of Serpents (Khaji Nag), stands out with its beautiful architecture and a mix of Hindu and Muslim styles.
