Top Tourist Attractions in Himachal Pradesh, India

Top Tourist Attractions in Himachal Pradesh, India

“If adventure has a final and all-embracing motive, it is surely this: we go out because it is our nature to go out, to climb mountains, and to paddle rivers, to fly to the planets and plunge into the depths of the oceans… When man ceases to do these things, he is no longer man.” – Wilfrid Noyce

Himachal Pradesh is a state synonymous with a serene landscape, adventure sports, and scenic beauty. Literally, the word Himachal means “the land of snow”. Himachal Pradesh is situated in the western Himalayas and has several hill stations. It is considered the most appropriate vacation spot to find relief from during the scorching summers.

Below is a list of some of the Best Tourist Attractions to visit in Himachal Pradesh while en route to the land of the Himalayas:

1.) Shimla – It is the Capital of Himachal Pradesh

Shimla, one of the most popular hill stations in Northern India is the perfect blend of Indian glory and British sophistication. It is seen as a stunning consecrated landscape and has a fresh climate throughout the year.

Suitable for: Family and friends
Ideal Duration: 3 – 4 days
When to visit: May – July, and November – January (for snowfall).

Transport route: Kalka is the nearest railhead and is connected to Delhi and Chandigarh by regular trains – Delhi at 343 kilometers, Chandigarh at a distance of 117 kilometers, and Manali at 260 kilometers.

Highlights:

· Satisfy your desire to shop at the mall road.

· Enjoy a visit to Lord Hanuman’s Temple and a trek to jakhu hill.

· Visit the Viceregal Lodge to be mesmerized by the British elegance.

· Try a hand at Polo at Annandale (4km distance from the Ridge).

2.) Kullu-Manali – The famous hill station of India

One of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh is Kullu-Manali. In case you’re on a lookout for green mountains and fresh air amidst the snow-covered ranges, then this place should indeed be on the top of your list.

Suitable for: Everyone! But specifically, this place is a hot favorite amongst newlyweds.
Ideal duration: 4 – 5 days
When to visit: May – July, and November – January (for snowfall).

Transport route: Chandigarh is the nearest airport which is 252 Kms away. The nearest railhead is also in Chandigarh and is 270 Kms away. Kullu is at a distance of 570 Kms from Delhi via road.

Highlights:

· Head to Solang Valley to indulge in adventure sports.

· Visit the Manali Bird Sanctuary.

· Go trekking, angling, river rafting and camping in Kullu.

· Take in the beauty of the Old temples

3.) Dharamsala – It is the residence of Dalai Lama

Dharamsala is a place which definitely has to be on the list of best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. It is famous not only due to its climate but also due to the multicultural Indian community that lives in harmony with the Indo Tibetan community.

Suitable for: Friends or Solo Travelers
Ideal duration: 2 – 3 days
When to visit: May – July and November – January (for snowfall)

Transport route: The main railway station is at Pathankot which is nearby (85 Kms away). Dharamshala is well-connected to Delhi and the journey is almost 520 Kms from Delhi. If you decide to go by road, the drive from Delhi via Chandigarh will take you about 12 hours.

Highlights:

· What you can do here is witness the royal life at the Kangra Fort and enjoy a boat ride across the Dal Lake.

· Pay homage to the Bhagsunath Temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and you can simultaneously take leisure watching the cascading Bhagsu falls.

· You can also visit the Dalai Lama Temple Complex, various monasteries, the Kangra Art Museum, and see the wonderful tea plantation estate on the foothills of the Kangra valley.

4.) Kinnaur – Greeting you with apples and a colorful ethnicity

Kinnaur is often called the ‘Land of the Gods’ and is famous for its apples. This paradise is 235 Kms away from Shimla and is situated in the northeast ends of Himachal Pradesh. Kinnaur is truly bestowed with a vibrant cultural scenario and its landscape is bejeweled with huge snow-clad mountains.

Suitable for: Family and solo
Ideal duration: 2 days and 1 night
When to visit: June to September

Transport route: Kinnaur is visited best via bus/road. The nearest airport here is Shimla Airport (277 km). The nearest railway station is Shimla Toy Train Station (259 km).

Highlights:

· Explore Nako Gompa, Kamru Fort, and hamlets by going on a heritage trail.

· Spend some quiet time beside Nako Lake.

· Savor the Tibetan delicacies at the Tibetan Cafeteria.

5.) Kasauli – This place is the gateway to Himachal

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Kasauli. It is one of the most serene places to visit in Himachal in the month of June. It is well connected by roadways and is almost based on the outskirts of Punjab and Haryana.

Suitable for: Friends and Family
Ideal duration: 3 - 4 days
Best time to go visit: November – March & December – January (for snowfall).

Transport route: The nearest airport here is in Chandigarh which is 70 Kms away. The nearest train station is Sonwara, 4km away. It takes about 7 hours and is 293 km away from New Delhi.

Highlights:

· Visit the Anglican Church. It was built during the British era.

· Enjoy an amazing trek or a stroll to the lower mall which leads to the Monkey point. This place is in the shape of a foot of Lord Hanuman.

· If you are a nature lover, walk and explore its scenic beauty by taking the Gilbert Trail.

6.) Dalhousie – Mini Switzerland of India

Yet another hill station in Himachal Pradesh, Dalhousie is suitable for de-stressing in the tranquil and serene troposphere. Sit back and enjoy nature in Dalhousie, away from the busy crowds of city life.

Suitable for: Honeymooners
Ideal duration: 2 – 3 days
When to visit: April to July

Transport route: The closest airport you’ll find here is Dharamsala which is almost 5 hours away. The closest railhead is Pathankot’s Chakki Bank (71 km from Dalhousie). Afterward, take a cab which takes around 10 hours to reach.

Highlights:

· Experience the beauty of nature in the Khajjar valley, also known as the Switzerland of India.

· Enjoy a brisk walk or a trek on the beautiful terrain in Bakrota Walk, Dainkund Walk, and Ganji Pahadi Walk.

· Visit the St. John’s Church which is the oldest church of the town. It carries with it a huge historical implication.

7.) Palampur – It is dotted with tea gardens

 This place is rather listed among the offbeat places of Himachal. Palampur is famously known for its tea gardens and zoo. This place is an ideal option to visit with family. Children and parents alike will find many attractions here equally interesting. The scenic splendor you see here will have you bewitched, thanks to the easy accessibility and several accommodation options available. This place is a perfect weekend getaway from Delhi.

Suitable for: Family
Ideal duration: 2 days and one night
When to visit: You can arrive here at any time of the year

Transport route: Palampur is to be visited via bus/road which is the best option. The nearest airport here is Gaggal Airport, Dharamsala (37 km). The nearest railway station is Pathankot Railway Station (112 km)

Highlights:

· You can go for a slow-paced trek while visiting the local villages in the area.

· Get face to face with wild animals in the local zoo.

· An evening spent just riding the boat.

· Savor the best taste while visiting the tea gardens.

8.) Malana – This town will get your spirits high

If you’re looking for a digital detox, then Malana is the place you surely must visit in Himachal Pradesh during the autumn season. It is located near the Kullu Valley and provides spellbinding views of the Chandrakhani crests and Deo Tiba.

Suitable for:  Anyone who wants to disconnect from the world, Trekkers, and Solo Travelers 
Ideal Duration: 3 - 4 Days
When to visit: The best time you should visit is early May to August

Transport route: Kullu is the nearest airport. By road, Malana takes roughly 10 hours and is 378 Kms away from Delhi. The closest railhead here is Shimla. After this, you can take a cab.

Highlights:

· Make sure to enjoy some stimulating weather in this gorgeous village. It is also known as the little Greece of India.

· Panoramic scenes from the Chanderkhani pass of the snow clad Himalayas. You will also get to capture the mesmerizing beauty of Kheer Ganga valley.

· Trek across the Alpine pastures and through spectacular forests with tremendous views.

· Visit the pilgrim center Manikaran which will offer you a hot water spring.

· Be a part of the regional festivals in Malana village. It offers an idiosyncratic culture and customs.

So what are you waiting for? Head to the mountains right now!