Himachal Pradesh has twelve districts and each have their own unique selling points and appeals. Tourist places in Himachal Pradesh cannot be counted on fingers. Besides the landscaping of this hilly state, the view of the rising and setting sun from your room will be anything but expected. At night, the view of the glittering stars will be a view indescribable in words.
The main places to visit in Himachal Pradesh are obviously the districts like Kasauli, Manali, Kullu and of course, the capital Shimla. You cannot skip Dharamsala when you go to the Himachal. It is a small town, a town which the great Dalai Lama considers his second home. You will find traces of the Buddhist culture in Dharamsala. Chail, Solan, Pawanoo, Simmaur etc. also make it to the list of places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. For an adventurous time in Himachal, do visit Bir. It is the hub of all adventure found in Himachal. At subsidize rates, you can try paragliding. The mountainous terrain will allow you to go trekking. These are few of the adventure sports in Himachal.
The Jaitak Fort, the Sujanpur fort and the Kuthar fort are the historical sites that you should visit. The churches and cathedrals in Himachal Pradesh are an architectural marvel. The buildings have been constructed to display the neo gothic colonial styles that the British buildings displayed.
One cannot forget to visit the Malana village. It is the most desired location for those following the stoner culture. It is where you can find freshly grown medicinal ‘herbs’. Out of the places to visit in Himachal Pradesh for a honeymoon, Manali tops the list. It is known as the honeymoon capital of India. It is where the newlyweds can find themselves at peace.
In Himachal, you can opt for a homestay option wherein you will be provided with stay by a native family of Himachal. When living with the locals, you will get a sense of how the himachali people live and can even visit the bazaars, just like them. In order to see Himachal from a different perspective, you need to stay with the locals and live like the locals.
1. Dalhousie
The “Little Switzerland of India” Dalhousie was established in 1854 as a summer retreat for the British. This quaint town is spread across 5 hills overlooking the beautiful Dhauladhar Mountain Range. With a rich local culture and history, Victorian-era architecture, and vast flora & fauna, Dalhousie is the perfect destination for tourists looking for nature’s retreat. Among all the tourist places in Himachal Pradesh, Dalhousie still remains the least commercialized and offers the untouched beauty of nature to travellers.
2. Dharamshala
Offering a rich cultural experience and panoramic views, Dharamshala lies on the scenic stretch of the Kangra Valley. Popularly known as ‘Little Lhasa of India’, the town was the holy residence of the famous Dalai Lama, making it one of the most popular destinations in Himachal Pradesh as it attracts travellers from not only India but all around the world. The town is divided into two parts- lower Dharamshala hosting the Kotwali Bazaar and upper Dharamshala entailing Mcleodganj, both of which are equally beautiful.
Many times travelers get into a state of dilemma regarding whether to visit Dalhousie or Dharamshala? If you are one of those you can click on the link above to read our blog regarding it.
3. Chamba
A beautiful town reminiscent of the British empire, Chamba has been rebuilt in a way that combines the best of old-world and contemporary. Located around the Ravi River bank the quaint hill town is known for its pristine valleys and lush green pastures. The backdrop of River Ravi offers a tranquil experience hosting picnics at the bank and enjoying scenic views, and adventure sports like river rafting excursions and river crossing exercises. The influence of Mughal miniature and mural art styles is evident in the town’s famous handicrafts made of wood and hand-woven textiles.
4. Bharmour
One of the hidden gems of Himachal Pradesh, Bharmour is a primeval town located just 60km from Chamba. Formally known as Brahmpura, it was the ancient capital of Chamba district. The town is home to the semi-nomadic Gaddi community and is famous for its ancient temples and adrenaline inducing treks. If you wish to explore the culture and history of Chamba, then surely visit the town of Bharmour.
In case you are planning your road trip from Dalhousie to Chamba to Bharmour, you should definitely read our guide.
5. Khajjiar
Just an hour’s drive away from Dalhousie, Khajjiar is a small town popularly called the “mini Switzerland of India”. This gorgeous valley located in the Chamba district is known for its lush green landscapes that provide a tranquil escape. One of the most popular tourist spots here is the Khajjiar Lake which is a stunning lake offering scenic views of the surrounding hills. On the opposite is a vast landscape hosting adventure activities like paragliding, zorbing, and horse riding. For adventure and tranquillity, Khajjiar makes up for a great tourist destination.
You can read about the places to visit in Khajjiar in detail by clicking on the link below!
6. Shimla
The summer capital of India in the colonial times and the current capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is one of the most beautiful hill stations in India. Being the largest city in Himachal Pradesh, Shimla has a lot to offer. Here you can experience a perfect blend of Indian glory and colonial heritage reflected in the culture and architecture of the place. The Shimla mall road is one of the most popular mall roads in India and is surely a must visit.
7. Kasauli
Located right on the outskirts of Punjab, Kasauli is the perfect gateway to the beauty of Himachal Pradesh. It is a great place to spend some quality time basking in nature and away from the hustle-bustle of the city life. A popular colonial landmark, Kasauli too is famous for its charming tourist spots including Central Research Institute, Baptist Church, Monkey Point, and Kasauli Club.
8. Manali
One of the most popular hill stations in India, Manali is located in the Kullu district at an altitude of 2,050 meters. The highlight of the place is its great weather and snow-capped mountains. Tourists often rush to this destination to enjoy snowfall or indulge in adventure activities, the most popular being river rafting. Given its widespread popularity all over the country, you’ll find here holidays for every budget.
9. Chail
A hidden gem located near Shimla, Chail is a beautiful town set at a higher altitude than most hill towns in Himachal Pradesh. Home to world’s highest cricket ground, Chail attracts cricket enthusiasts from all over the world. The town is characterised by nature’s bounties like pine forests, mist-covered hills, and mesmerizing valleys. The lush green landscape and untouched beauty of the area make up for a great hiking trail which is equal parts adventure and serenity.
10. Spiti Valley
One of the most popular tourist places in Himachal Pradesh, Spiti Valley is a snow-clad mountain, home to many Budhhist destinations. The name Spiti refers to the middle land and got its name because of its location between India and Tibet. Known for its beauty and cultural experience, the valley would leave you awe-struck with its divine attractions. In Spiti Valley, once in a lifetime experiences await you- from meditating at LariDupuk to spotting the Snow Leopard at Snow point Kunzom.
11. Solan
A beautiful town characterised by snow-clad mountains, forests, and ancient temples, Solan is one of the best tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh. Also called the ‘Mushroom City of India’ and ‘City of Red Gold’, the town is known for its bulk production of both mushrooms and tomatoes, so be sure to try the freshest produce when you visit the place. Ideal for all kinds of travellers, Solan has something for everyone- from the adventure activity of camping to a historical walk at the Kuthar fort.
12. Kasol
Perched on Parvati Valley at an altitude of 1,650 meters, Kasol is a mesmerizing place slowly gaining popularity as a tourist destination. The town is home to thrilling treks and hiking in the jungle which makes it a great adventure hub. Known as the little Israel of India, the place is famous for its Israeli food and alternative hippie lifestyle. If you’ve been planning a solo trip to bask in nature and indulge in adrenaline pumping activities, then Kasol is the place for you as here you’ll find many backpackers and trekkers who are on a similar adventure.
13. Tirthan Valley
A haven for adventure enthusiasts, Tirthan Valley offers a delightful and unfiltered natural experience. Surreal views of the Himalayas and Tirthan River coupled with small picturesque villages and a great weather year round, makes the entire experience seem like you’re living in a painting. The adventure activities here are endless- trekking, river crossing, night treks, overnight camping, mountain biking, kayaking, and archery would keep the energy quotient always high. If you’re lucky you can also witness a magnificent rainbow in the glacial waters or carry out a successful fishing expedition catching a beautiful brown trout.
14. Kalpa
One of the biggest villages in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, Kalpa is known for its breath-taking beauty and sacred religious places. Dotted with beautiful apple orchards, the town is a sight to behold. The majestic Kinnaur-Kailash range and the stunning Sutlej River surround the town allowing travelers a true nature’s retreat.
15. Parwanoo
One of the offbeat tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh, Parwanoo is a beautiful hill town set against the backdrop of majestic hills. The place lies on the border of Panchkula and is known for its lush green landscapes. The mesmerizing apple orchards of this place are like a scene from a painting. Tourists also visit it for its timber trails, cable car rides which provide a great opportunity to surround yourself in nature.
