PLACES TO VISIT IN HIMACHAL PRADESH

Himachal Pradesh is among the most visited top mountain tourist places in North India, the Himalayas region. It gifts you with memories that last for a lifetime. Its landscape has a lot to do with it: valleys, mountains, ancient monasteries, historical sites, lakes, mountain passes! A Himachal Pradesh tour satisfies the wanderlust in you, whatever it is you may be looking for. Pick up any Himachal travel guide, chances are you will be hooked on to it within a few minutes. The state has so much to offer, no wonder it’s a top tourist attraction in North India!

PLACES TO VISIT IN HIMACHAL PRADESH

#_KULLU-MANALI

#_SHIMLA

#_DHARAMASHALA

#_KASAULI

#_KASOL

#_DALHOUSIE

#_CHITKUL

#_KHAJJIAR

#_SPITI

#_PARWANOO

#_SHOJA

#_NAHAN

#_BAROT

#_CHAIL

#_SANGLA

#_CHAMBA

#_KULLU-MANALI

A trip to Kullu Manali is the medicine for fatigued minds and tired souls. Nature has blessed them generously, and yet, one is different from the kind of experiences they offer. Kullu is called the “land of the gods”, and quite aptly so. Stretched out leisurely on the banks of the River Beas, it is blessed with magnificent scenery characterized by forests, valleys, streams, rivers, and orchards. Mystical Malana to serene Manikaran, it lures tourists for many reasons. The town of Manali is seated comfortably in the River Beas Valley, and its popularity has increased faster than the clouds that dance on its hilltops. Wonderfully combining nature and adventure, it is serenity, history, nature, spirituality, and shopping, all merged into one. Holidays in Kullu Manali then is about sightseeing, but it is also about adventure, spirituality & being prepared to be constantly surprised.

Best time to visit: May-July | November-January for snowfall

How To Reach:

• By Air: Chandigarh Airport.

• By Road: Road transport is available.

• By Train: Chandigarh is the nearest railway station.

#_SHIMLA

One of the most stunning hill resorts, Shimla is one of the most popular hill stations in northern India. Situated at an altitude of 2,205 meters, it used to be the summer capital of British India with well-planned architecture. The town is famous for pleasant walking experiences on hillsides surrounded by pine and oak forests. This capital city of Himachal Pradesh is famous for The Mall, ridge, and toy train. With colonial-style buildings, the town has relics of the ancient past that lend it a distinct look. Along a ridge of 12 km, its steep hillsides converge in all directions. The connecting road of the town, The Mall, bustles with locals and vacationers during morning and evening hours. South Shimla has a market cascading steeply down to the cart road. From mid-July to mid-September, it is covered with a snow blanket making it a muse for all nature lovers.

Best time to visit: May –July | November-January for snowfall

How To Reach:

• By Air: Chandigarh Airport.

• By Road: Road transport is available.

• By Train: Kalka is the nearest railway station.

#_DHARAMASHALA

Himachal Pradesh Tourism always stresses visiting Dharamsala as it is here that you get to witness an amazing climate and multicultural Indian communities peacefully live together with the Indo Tibetan community. Dharamshala is also home to the Dalai Lama and is one of the most frequented tourist places to visit in Himachal and is known for its particular mix of the Kangra and Tibetan culture.

Best time to visit: May –July | November-January for snowfall

How To Reach:

• By Air: Dharamsala Airport.

• By Road: Road transport is available.

• By Train: Pathankot is the nearest railway station.

#_KASAULI

Dotted with Dense timbered woods, Kasauli is perched in the Solan district in the charming state of Himachal Pradesh. It offers the allure of a calm and composed tourist appeal. Kasauli is famed for its picture-perfect surroundings and magnificent Victorian mansions. The snow-covered mountains, lush greenery, gurgling torrents, and alpine meadows enhance the unspoiled exquisiteness of the hill station. Dotted with Dense timbered woods, Kasauli is perched in the Solan district in the charming state of Himachal Pradesh. It offers the allure of a calm and composed tourist appeal. Kasauli is famed for its picture-perfect surroundings and magnificent Victorian mansions. The snow-covered mountains, lush greenery, gurgling torrents, and alpine meadows enhance the unspoiled exquisiteness of the hill station.

Best time to go visit: November – March | December – January for snowfall

How To Reach:

• By Air:  Chandigarh Airport.

• By Road: Road transport is available.

• By Train: Sonwara is the nearest railway station.

#_KASOL

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. Kasol has situated 23 km from Bhuntar and next to the religious town of Manikaran and is one of the best places in the country just to sit back and chill in the panorama of snow-clad mountains, pine trees, and gurgling river. Kasol is famous for its trekking trails, which include treks to Kheerganga, Yanker Pass, Sar Pass, and Pin Parbati Pass. To get a real feel of the culture in this region, go on a visit to the village of Malana. Located a few kilometers away from Kasol, Malana is a tiny hamlet inhabited by people living in self-imposed isolation. The people of Malana claim themselves to be Aryan descendants, as a result of which they avoid interaction with outsiders. The village has plenty of scenic sights, though, and is often called ‘Little Greece’.

Best time to visit: May and June

How To Reach:

• By Air:  Kullu Airport.

• By Road: Road transport is available.

• By Train: Shimla is the nearest railway station.

#_DALHOUSIE

Dalhousie, a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh is situated at a height of 1,970 meters above sea level. Boasting views of the snow-capped peaks of Dhauladhar ranges, Dalhousie is famous for its meadows, dense jungles, and waterfalls. Established in 1854, it was named after Lord Dalhousie and this hill station was one of the favorite summer destinations of the Britishers during the colonial era. Dalhousie offers an old-world charm, mesmerizing natural landscapes, pine-clad valleys, flower-bedecked meadows, fast-flowing rivers, and magnificent misty mountains. The Scottish and Victorian architecture reminds you of its colonial heritage while the wispy air continues to hone British aromas.

Best time to visit: April to July

How To Reach:

• By Air:  Dharamsala  Airport.

• By Road: Road transport is available.

• By Train: Pathankot is the nearest railway station.

#_CHITKUL

Chitkul is said to be the last inhabited village within the Indian boundaries on the old Indo-Tibetan Road. Situated at the height of 3450 meters, the village is located at a distance of 28 km from Sangla, about 600 kilometers from Delhi in the Kinnaur Valley. It is like a doorway that opens into an exquisite landscape of breathtaking beauty and a serene environment. There are orchids, mountains, meadows, huge rocks, rivers, jungle, and grasslands in the village with the help of which it has made a unique identity for itself. A drive to the Chitkul village is pleasant. One can go trekking in the forest as well and a wildlife sanctuary for all the wildlife as well as nature lovers out there. The journey to Chitkul is an altogether different experience in itself. It is sparsely populated with as many as 600 locals who are warm, loving, and extremely hospitable towards the tourists. While traveling to the valley, you will see River Baspa on your right, and on the way, you will also pass through the Rakcham village which is commonly known as the model village of the region. Numerous campsites are situated within the apple gardens by the side of the Baspa River.

Best time to visit: March – April, and September – October

How To Reach:

• By Air:  Bhuntar Airport.

• By Road: Road transport is available.

• By Train: Shimla is the nearest railway station.

#_KHAJJIAR

Khajjiar is a tiny slice of paradise amidst the dense deodar forests, verdant meadows, and the snow-capped Himalayas. Nicknamed the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’, visitors can explore its gorgeous scenery, get up close with the exotic wildlife at the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, and take part in outdoor activities, such as forest trekking, zorbing, horse riding, and paragliding at the Khajjiar Lake. An unmissable spot here is the 12th-century Khaji Nag temple. Dedicated to the Lord of Serpents (Khaji Nag), the temple stands out with its beautiful architecture, which is a concoction of Hindu and Muslim styles.

Best time to visit: May to June

How To Reach:

• By Air:  Dharamshala Airport.

• By Road: Road transport is available.

• By Train: Pathankot is the nearest railway station.

#_SPITI

At an altitude of 3,810 meters, Spiti Valley is a remote village up in the cold desert mountains. Despite the fact it is fairly isolated, plenty of spiritual and adventure travelers are gradually making their way to Spiti to explore its many Buddhist monasteries scattered throughout the area, and indulge in thrilling activities, such as trekking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, and wildlife spotting. In addition, it is surrounded by several high-altitude villages, like Tabo, Kaza, Dhankar, Kibber, Komic, and Langza, which can also be explored on your trip to Spiti.

Best time to visit: May-July

How To Reach:

• By Air:  Kullu Airport.

• By Road: Road transport is available.

• By Train: Shimla is the nearest railway station.

#_PARWANOO

This is a place where one can enjoy the captivating ambiance of a hill station and the hustle-bustle of a city. Situated on the border of Haryana and Himachal Pradesh, this small town offers beautiful apple orchards and delicious fruit products. An ideal getaway for outdoor activities such as trekking and hiking, it is also a destination for nature lovers. Once a sleepy town, today Parwanoo has transformed into an industrial city. The verdant cover of pine and fir trees along with pleasant weather will make you fall in love with this place. Packed with lakes, temples, and gardens and a ride on a cable car, a trip to this town can be one of the most enjoyable and cherished.

Best time to visit: March to May and October to November

How To Reach:

• By Air:  Chandigarh Airport.

• By Road: Road transport is available.

• By Train: Kalka is the nearest railway station.

#_SHOJA

Untouched by tourism, Shoja is one of the fine places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, the best place to relax and breathe in the fresh mountain air. A perfect escape from the chaotic city life and a very popular Himachal tourist place. Located in the Seraj Valley, it is famous for its Serloskar Lake and the sunset here is sure to make an unforgettable space in your memory and heart. Shoja adds to the exquisiteness of Himachal tourism.

Best time to visit: April to June

How To Reach:

• By Air:  Bhuntar Airport.

• By Road: Road transport is available.

• By Train: Chandigarh is the nearest railway station.

#_NAHAN

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

the town that is one of the best-unexplored places in Himachal Pradesh. 

Best time to visit: April to September

How To Reach:

• By Air:  Chandigarh Airport.

• By Road: Road transport is available.

• By Train: Barara is the nearest railway station.

#_BAROT

Barot is the epitome of positivity and beautiful vibes. Across from the Uhl River is located a Nargu wildlife sanctuary, which is home to a variety of unique Himalayan beasts. The valley is full of evergreen forests with umpteen trekking trails that cut through the sanctuary to Kullu. The temple of the local deity of rain, Dev Pashakot that makes for a fine place to visit, is situated across the river Uhl. Barot is one of the most mesmerizing off-beat places to visit in Himachal Pradesh.

Best time to visit: April – June; November – February

How To Reach:

• By Air:  Kullu Airport.

• By Road: Road transport is available.

• By Train: Jogindernagar is the nearest railway station.

#_CHAIL

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.

Best time to visit: Throughout the year

How To Reach:

• By Air:  Shimla Airport.

• By Road: Road transport is available.

• By Train: Shimla is the nearest railway station.

#_SANGLA

With scenic attractions, nature walks, and trekking options that enthrall you no end, Sangla is known for its apple orchards, cattle farms, and beautiful sceneries. If you want to experience calm, rustic life, you need to head here.

Best time to visit: April to June and September to December

How To Reach:

• By Air:  Jubbarhatti Airport.

• By Road: Road transport is available.

• By Train: Shimla is the nearest railway station.

#_CHAMBA

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. 

Best time to visit: October to June

How To Reach:

• By Air:  Jammu Airport.

• By Road: Road transport is available.

• By Train: Pathankot is the nearest railway station.

FOOD IN HIMACAHAL PRADESH

The Cuisine of Himachal Pradesh - the north Indian state lying at the foothills of the Himalayas - boasts of the uniqueness of its own. The influence of the neighboring lands of Punjab and Tibet is evident in the Himachal cuisine. Besides, the geographical and climatic conditions of the state have a strong effect on the dishes of Himachal Pradesh and the way they are prepared. The day-to-day cuisine of Himachal Pradesh is simple and very much similar to that of other north Indian states. Rice, paddy, and maize constitute the staple diet of the people here. But the preferred taste varies from region to region. Thus, while in the barren regions of Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti, locally-grown coarse grains like buckwheat, millet, and barley are mainly used, regions with pastoral tradition use large quantities of milk and its products in their dishes. 

☝☝☝☝☝☝

PHOTO_CREDITS: RESPECTIVE_AUTHORS

➡️➡️➡️➡️➡️➡️🙏⬅️⬅️⬅️⬅️⬅️⬅️

⏬

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM :::: INDIA_ON_WAY

⏫

➡️➡️➡️➡️➡️➡️🙏⬅️⬅️⬅️⬅️⬅️⬅️

⏩"KEEP SUPPORTING US"⏪