There are many states in India, and every state has its beauty and specialty. Similarly, Himachal Pradesh, which is one of the 28 states of India, Himachal Pradesh is a very beautiful state and it is very popular for its nature beauty and culture. Himachal Pradesh shared the borders with four state and two union territories (The states of Punjab to the west, Haryana to Southwest, Uttarakhand to southeast, Uttar Pradesh to the south, and Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh to the north). If you love the cold season then there are many places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. It offers majestic Mountain View, lush forests, remote villages and lakes. Himachal Pradesh is also known as Dev Bhumi/Dev Bhoomi , meaning ‘Land of Gods’. It is also known as “Land of Snow.

Best Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh

1. Kullu-Manali: Fall in Love with Kullu-Manali’s Scenic Beauty

Manali is one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh due to its climate. It is one of the best hill stations and it is the favorite place for the newly married couple for the honeymoon. Manali is famous with Kullu-Manali also, due to their proximity it is considered a signal place. Manali is located on the bank of River Beas. It is located around 554 km away from Delhi and around 315 km from Chandigarh. The best time to visit Manali is May to July and November to January, during these months you can see covered snow mountains. Manali is famous for its culture, snow mountains, and scenic views. In Manali one of the most famous places is Himalayan National Park, which is surrounded by Himalayan ranges and lined with ork and deodar trees. It is the home of more than 370 species of fauna, more than 30 species of mammals, and 180 species of birds. If you like adventure then you must visit Solang Valley and Rohtang which are at around 15 km and around 50 km away from Manali, which allow you to paragliding, zorbing, and mountain biking. Rohtang Pass is open only between May and November due to snow and its height is 3798 meters, it offers a breathtaking view, spectacular view of glaciers, Chandra River, and towering mountain peaks view.

Major Attraction in Manali:

Naggar Castle, Krishna Temple, Tripura Sundari Temple, Chandrakhani Pass, Ram Temple, Manikaran, The Urusvati Himalayan Research Institute, Van Vihar, Malana, Solang, Rohtang, Khirganga, Hadimba Temple, Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art, Tibetan Monasteries, Manu Temple, Vashisht Hot Water Springs, Jogini Falls, The Himalayan Trout Fish Farm, Old Manali, Kullu, Kullu River

How to Reach?

It is connected by air, rail, and road. You may use one of them, the nearest airport is Kullu Manali Airport in Bhuntar and Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport. You can reach by hire cab/bus from Delhi and Chandigarh or drive. If you are coming by train then the nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar Railway Station at a distance of around 162 km from Manali.

2. Shimla: Where Colonial Charm Meets Mountain Vistas

 

Shimla is one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh due to its breathtaking sight-view. It is located around 357 km away from Delhi and around 123 km away from Chandigarh. Shimla’s name is extracted from Goddess Shamala, an incarnation of Goddess Kali. Shimla is a popular Hill station which is located at the foothills of the Himalayas, with greenery, and snow-covered mountains. It offers breathtaking snow-covered mountain views, temples, and churches, if you like to do trekking it is ideal for trekking. The best time to visit is in the winter season, especially between March – June, during this period all city gets covered in snow, and you can enjoy ice skating and skiing. It also boasts colonial and neon-gothic architecture and in Shimla some of the beautiful colonial-era architecture, including the Viceregal Lodge, Gaiety Theatre, Town Hall, and New Tudor building at the Ridge. In Shimla, you can enjoy sunrise and sunset views from Scandal Point and Observation Hill. Things to do activities in Shimla are Rafting, sightseeing, riding toy trains, hiking, trekking, camping, and ice skating. You can also visit Mall Road, Summer Hill, Baijnath Temple, Himachal State Museum, and Jakhoo Hills, Jakhoo Temple to get the blessing from God Hanuman (Standing altitude of 108 ft). You can enjoy here to do shopping in Lakkar Bazaar which opens daily between 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Mall Road.

Major Nearest Attraction in Shimla

Tattapani, Solan, Mashobra, Jakhoo Hills, Kufri, Summer Hill, Naldehra Peak, The Scandal Point, Sri Hanuman Jakhoo Temple, Ridge Road, Annandale, and Viceregal Lodge.

How to Reach?

It is connected by air, rail, and road. You may use one of them, the nearest airport is Shimla Airport. You can reach by hire cab/bus from Delhi, Jaipur, Uttar Pradesh, and Chandigarh or drive yourself. If you are coming by train then the nearest railway station is Shimla Railway Station, Kalka Railway Station.

3. Kasol: Mini Israel of India

Kasol is one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, due to its ultimate natural scenic beauty. If you are a nature lover then defiantly you will love this place. It is located around 535 km away from Delhi and around 295 km away from Chandigarh. Kasol is known as Amsterdam of India. It is famous for the Parvati River, pine trees, trekking, basecamp, Malana, and its Israeli inhabitants that often give its name as “Little Israel of India” and snow-clad mountains. If you love to do adventure then this place is one the best places to do adventure activities. It offers various adventure sites to do activities such as Sam Pass, Pin Parbati Pass, and Yanker Pass to trekkers. It also offers a beautiful scenic view which attracts to photographers to capture its beauty. You can also explore Malana village which is known as Little Greece. The best time to visit Kasol is between October to June. You can visit Flea Market Kasol, Tibetan Bazar, and Bhuttico to buy some souvenirs and local products.

Major Nearest Attraction in Kasol

Malana, Manikaran, Tosh, Khirganga, Tirthan Valley, Tosh Village, Parvati River, Manikaran Sahib, Malana Village, Kheer Ganga, Bhuntar Town, Kheer Ganga Peak, Manikaran Gurudwara.

How to Reach?

It is connected by air, rail, and road. You may use one of them, the nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, Kullu. You can reach by hire cab or HRTC operates buses from Punjab, Delhi, and Haryana or you can drive yourself. If you are coming by train then the nearest railway station is Pathankot Railway Station.

4. Solang Valley: A Touch of Snow, A Rush of Adrenaline

Solang Valley is one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh due to its offer a gorgeous landscape views. It is located around 570 km away from Delhi and around 325 km away from Chandigarh. If you like adventure then this is the correct place for you. It offers a good place such as Kothi, Rohtang Pass, and Himalayan Nation Park. You can do activities such as skydiving, paragliding, horse riding, jeep rides, hiking, trekking, visiting the temples, camping, zorbing, Quad Biking, Snowmobiling, and Skiing. When it’s covered with snow throughout the winter you can do Skiing, which is one of the best activities in Solang Vally. The best time to visit Solang Valley is October to June. You can visit some famous markets such as Mall Road, Upper Bazaar, Lower Bazaar, and Lakkar Bazaar to buy some souvenirs.

Major Nearest Attraction in Solang Valley

Kuthar Fort, Bon Monastery, Dagshai Jail Museum, Christ Church, Shoolini Mata Temple, Moksha Himalaya Spa, Kalka-Shimla Toy Train

How to Reach?

It is connected by air, rail, and road. You may use one of them, the nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, Kullu. You can reach by hire cab or buses from Punjab, Delhi, and Haryana or drive yourself. If you are coming by train then the nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar Railway Station.

5. Palampur: A Breath of Fresh Air in Himachal Pradesh

Palampur is located in Kangra district. Palampur is one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, due to its stunning landscape sight-views. It is also known as the tea capital of Northern India. Palampur has aromatic tea gardens. Palampur town is surrounded by deodar forest and tea gardens, which adds a very beautiful scene. You can explore also here few Victorian-style mansions and architecture of the English. It offers lush greenery and a breathtaking sight-view. Here you can visit one of the famous St. John Church which is beautifully constructed with splendid architecture. The best time to visit Palampur is between September to June.

Major Nearest Attraction in Palampur

Baijnath Temple, Hamunda Devi Temple, Neugal Khad, Tashi Jong Monastery, Saurabh Van Vihar

How to Reach?

It is connected by air, rail, and road. You may use one of them, the nearest airport is Gaggal Airport. You can reach by hiring a cab or bus from all major cities in Himachal Pradesh or drive yourself. If you are coming by train then the nearest railway station is Maranda Railway Station.

6. Khajjar: Exploring the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’

Khajjar is one of the popular hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. Khajjar is renowned as the “Mini Switzerland of India.” It is famous for adventure activities and beautiful sights scenery, wildlife, and culture and you can enjoy seeing the majestic peace of the Himalayas from here which makes this one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. The primary allure lies in activities such as paragliding, horseback riding, kayaking, trekking, and various other adventurous pursuits. The best time to visit this place is May to June.

Major Nearest Attraction in Khajjar

Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Khajji Nag Temple, Kailash Village, Khajjiar Lake, Khajji Nag Temple, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Dainkund Peak, Panch Pandav Tree, and Tibetan Handicrafts Centre

How to Reach?

It is connected by air, rail, and road. You may use one of them, the nearest airport is Dharamsala Airport. You can reach by hiring a cab or bus from all major cities in Himachal Pradesh or drive yourself. If you are coming by train then the nearest railway station is Pathankot Railway Station.

7. Dharamshala: Tibetan Culture, Nature, and Peace

Dharamshala is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. This hill station is in the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas, which makes it one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. Dharamshala has many attractions such as Viceregal Lodge, Christ Church, Shri Hanuman Jakhoo Temple, Ridge Road, Annadale, Dalai Lama temple, Namgyal Monastery, Gyuto Tantric Monastery Temple, Dal Lake, lush tea gardens, Kangra Fort and the Kangra Museum. You can visit also McLeodganj which is 5 km away from here, you can reach McLeod Ganj from Dharamshala through the skyway (Skyway cabin costs around 1 K per person) in ten minutes. You can enjoy in Dharamshala such as trekking, breathtaking sight views, hiking, camping, and ridge. The best time to visit is November to January and July. You can visit some famous markets such as Lakkar Bazaar, and Mall Road to buy some souvenirs and local products.

How to Reach?

It is connected by air, rail, and road. You may use one of them, the nearest airport is Kangra Airport. You can reach by hiring a cab or bus from all major cities in Himachal Pradesh or drive yourself. If you are coming by train then the nearest railway station is Pathankot Railway Station.

8. Bir Billing: Fly High in the Himalayas

Bir Billing is one the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh due to it offers various activities. Bir Billing is located in Kangra District and at around 20 km away from Dharamsala-Kangaroo Airport. It has many attractions such as Dharmalaya Institute, Baijnath Temple, Deer Park Institute, Birbilling Landing Site, Chokling Monastery, Bir Tea Factory, Bir Bazaar, Baijnath Temple, unshar River Pool, Bangoru Waterfalls, Tashi Jong, Chowgan Tea Garden, Drukpa Kagyu Monastery and you can do some adventurous activity such as  Paragliding, Camping, Trekking, Hang Gliding, Mountain Biking and enjoy Toy Train. This place also attracts photographers to take landscape nature pictures. The best time to visit this place is March to May and October to November.  Bir Billing is one of the most famous places for paragliding in Himachal Pradesh and it is also famous as the ‘Paragliding Capital of India’.

How to Reach?

It is connected by air, rail, and road. You may use one of them, the nearest airport is Dharamsala-Kangra Airport. You can reach by hiring a cab or bus from all major cities in Himachal Pradesh or drive yourself. If you are coming by train then the nearest railway station is Ahju Railway Station.

9. Kufri: Where Mountains and Adventure Meet

Kufri is one the best small hill stations in Himachal Pradesh that is located near Shimla. It is famous for snow adventure activities. In winter it is completely covered by snow. It is also famous for the newly married couple for honeymoons. The major attractions in Kufri are Mahasu Peak, Indira Tourist Park, Nag Temple, Kufri Zoo, The Himalayan Nature Park, Kufri Valley, Indira Tourist Park, Green Valley, Kufri Fun World, Hip Hip Hurray Amusement Park, Jakhu Temple. It has various start points for famous treks, such as the Mahasu Peak climb and the Fagu Valley trek. The best time to visit Kufri is April to June and September to November. You can enjoy Skiing, trekking, hiking, exploring, photography, Tobogganing, and most unique is the Yak Safari.  It is also famous for its apple orchards, and lush green pine.

How to Reach?

It is connected by air, rail, and road. You may use one of them, the nearest airport is Shimla Airport. You can reach by hiring a cab or bus from all major cities in Himachal Pradesh or drive yourself. If you are coming by train then the nearest railway station is Shimla Railway Station.

10. Dalhousie: Fall in Love with Dalhousie’s Scenic Charm

Dalhousie is one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh due to its offering a picturesque view of the snow-capped peak of Dhauladhar Mountain. It is located in the district of Chamba and its name is derived from Lord Dalhousie. The best time to visit in Dalhousie is April to July. It has various attractions such as Bakrota Hills, Karelanu, Dainkund Peak, Kalatop Forest, St John’s Church, Kalatop Wildlife Reserve, St. Francis Catholic Church, Satdhara Falls, Rang Mahal and Tibetan Market. You can enjoy here various activities such as Rafting, River Crossing, Rock climbing, Camping, Paragliding, Boating, Hiking, Shopping, and Taking a romantic walk. This hill station is one of the most famous for honeymoon. It offers a breathtaking sight-view which will add a memorable moment in your life.

How to Reach?

It is connected by air, rail, and road. You may use one of them, the nearest airport is Gaggal Airport, located about 13 km away. You can reach by hiring a cab or bus from all major cities in Himachal Pradesh or drive yourself. If you are coming by train then the nearest railway station is Chakki Bank Railway Station, Pathankot.

Things to do in Himachal Pradesh

• Indulge in the mesmerizing experience of star-gazing atop Triund Hill, where the clear night sky unveils a celestial spectacle. It offers a tranquil and enchanting retreat for astronomy enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
• Embark on a serene nature walk through the Great Himalayan National Park, immersing yourself in the pristine beauty of the Himalayas.
• Discover the idyllic charm of Khajjiar Lake, often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India”.
• Experience the vibrant and cultural fervor by celebrating the Dussehra festival in Kullu.
• Embark on an adrenaline-pumping adventure by going heli-skiing on the pristine slopes of the Himalayas.
• Soar through the skies and experience the thrill of paragliding at Bir Billing, a world-renowned destination nestled in the Himalayan foothills.
• Delight in a unique and cozy winter experience by staying in an igloo at Manali.
• Indulge and delight your taste buds with a culinary journey through the diverse and flavourful cuisines of Himachal Pradesh.
• Challenge your climbing skills amidst the scenic beauty of Vashisht by engaging in rock climbing.
• Embark on a thrilling adventure under the starlit skies with a night trek in Manali, where the tranquil beauty of the mountains comes alive. It offers an unforgettable experience amidst the serene and captivating landscapes of Himachal Pradesh.

Useful Tips

Important Note: Always prioritize your safety and stay aware of the current situation. Research thoroughly and seek reliable sources for up-to-date information before your trip.

Conclusion

Himachal Pradesh stands as one of the most picturesque states in northern India, sharing its borders with Jammu & Kashmir to the west and Uttarakhand to the southeast. Its origin traces back to the Anglo-Gorkha War, marking a region known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history that continues to captivate visitors from around the world. This is one of the best places to visit in Bharat (India).

Read also: Places to Visit in Rajasthan, India

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