Himachal Pradesh is an Indian state located in the country’s Northern region. This State is home to popular tourist attractions such as Kullu, Manali, Chamba, and Shimla. It is filled with lofty Himalayan mountains, ancient holy sites, and a cheerful culture.
Himachal Pradesh is recognized all over India as the State of Apple. It is also renowned for beautiful scenery, music, outdoor sports, and a variety of fairs, festivals, and celebrations. McLeod Ganj, the 14th Dalai Lama’s abode, deserves a visit.
Himachal Pradesh also has many forts, palaces, and monasteries of the greatest cultural and historical significance. Himachal Pradesh is situated on the frontier of Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand, and Punjab in northern India and a frontier with Tibet.
Read further to know the Best 20 places to visit in Himachal Pradesh:
1. Manali
In the list of the top 20 destinations of Himachal, it has to be Manali. Nestled between the snow-capped Pir Panjal slopes and the Dhauladhar mountains, Manali is one of its most renowned hill resorts. Manali is blessed with exceptional beauty.
You will witness jaw-dropping views of huge flowers-carpeted land, a continuous fairy-tale-like mist lingering in the air, and lush green forests. Manali has every excuse to be a tourist attraction throughout the year. It has everything from museums to temples, from quaint little hippie villages to busy trendy avenues, river adventures to trekking trails.
Things to Do: Explore the Hadimba Temple, enjoy adventure sports at Solang Valley, visit Manu Temple, and relax in Vashisht hot water springs.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Bhuntar, about 50 km away. Well connected by road from Delhi and Chandigarh. The nearest railhead is in Joginder Nagar, about 162 km away.
Read More:
- 10 Best Places to Visit and See in Manali
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2. Shimla
Shimla is India’s capital Himachal Pradesh, and a popular hill station among Indian honeymooners and families. Situated at an altitude of 2200 m, Shimla was British India’s summer capital. Shimla still maintains its old-world charm with stunning colonial architecture, a pedestrian-friendly Mall Road, and a ridge lined with numerous stores, cafes, and restaurants.
For most months, the weather is good with tourists flocking, especially during the summer months. The winters are cold from mid-December till the end of February with several days of snow.
Things to Do: Walk on the Ridge, visit the Jakhu Temple, explore the Shimla State Museum, and ride on the Kalka-Shimla Railway.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport. Well connected by road and rail from major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.
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3. Kasol
Kasol is renowned for its hiking trails, including treks to Kheerganga, Yanker Pass, Sar Pass, and Pin Parbati Pass. If you want to get a real feel of the culture, go on a visit to the village of Malana. Located a few kilometers from Kasol, Malana is a tiny hamlet inhabited by self-imposed isolated people. Read More: Top 10 Tourist Places to See in Kasol.
The Malana people claim to be Aryan descendants, thereby preventing contact with outsiders. Nevertheless, the village has many scenic sights, and is sometimes referred to as ‘Little Greece’. Also, read How to Reach Kasol from Delhi – By Road, Train, or Flight.
Things to Do: Trek to Kheerganga, visit Manikaran Sahib, explore Tosh village, and enjoy the local Israeli cuisine.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Bhuntar, about 31 km away. Accessible by road from Delhi and Chandigarh.
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4. Dharamshala
Dharamshala or Dharamsala is located in Kangra’s district at a distance of 18 km from Kangra town. Dharamsala is divided into various altitudes, as upper and lower divisions.
Click the package for the 4 Nights 5 Days Dharamshala Dalhousie Tour Itinerary.
The lower division is the very town of Dharamsala. The upper division is 3 km away and is popularly known as Mcleodganj. Dharamsala is visited prominently for the bus and bustling market connections.
Things to Do: Visit the Dalai Lama Temple, explore McLeod Ganj, trek to Triund, and enjoy the Tibetan Museum.
How to Reach: Gaggal airport is about 15 km away. Well connected by road from major cities. The nearest railhead is in Pathankot, about 85 km away.
More about Dharamshala:
- Dharamshala 10 Famous Places to See
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- By Ropeway, Travel from Dharamshala to Mcleodganj in 5 minutes
5. Kasauli
Located on the way from Chandigarh to Shimla, Kasauli is a hilly cantonment town that makes an ideal location for a peaceful holiday, particularly a weekend getaway. Kasauli is a small town in the Solan district, in the southwestern part of Himachal, on the relatively lower edges of the Himalayas.
It is nestled among beautiful wooded pine forests, herbs (Milk Thistle), and cedar trees. Kasauli owes its magical and serene atmosphere to the beautiful Victorian buildings designed by the British who lived here years ago.
Things to Do: Visit the Kasauli Brewery, explore Monkey Point, walk along the Mall Road, and enjoy the Gilbert Trail.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Chandigarh, about 70 km away. Accessible by road from Chandigarh and Delhi.
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6. Kufri
It is in the district of Shimla, Himachal Pradesh is one of the most sought-after holiday destinations, and more so for couples due to its proximity to Shimla and relatively higher altitude, making it a place with snow throughout the winter. More Read: 10 Places to Visit in Kufri & Attractions.
Kufri is just 10 km from Shimla, and if you’re in Shimla, it’s quite a retreat, and snow is something that excites you. However, there isn’t much to see in Kufri. Still, you can enjoy a bit of trekking, the panoramic views and temples are worth the time.
Things to Do: Enjoy the Kufri Fun World, horse riding to Mahasu Peak, and trekking in the surrounding areas.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Shimla, about 20 km away. Easily reachable by road from Shimla.
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7. Kullu
Kullu is a popular tourist destination located on the banks of the Beas River, in Himachal Pradesh. It is a paradise for nature lovers, with panoramic views and majestic hills covered with Deodar and Pine trees.
Kullu is usually coupled with its far higher-altitude sister town Manali, which offers more scenic views. Tourists who come to Kullu and Manali will enjoy many adventure sports activities such as river rafting, trekking, mountaineering, etc.
Things to Do: Visit the Raghunath Temple, enjoy river rafting in the Beas River, and explore the Great Himalayan National Park.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Bhuntar, about 10 km away. Well connected by road from major cities.
Read More: 10 Best Places to Visit in Kullu
8. Bhuntar
Bhuntar is located in the Kullu district. Generally, it is used as a gateway to Kullu, Kasol, Manikaran, and Manali towns. Kullu Airport is also connected to Bhuntar.
Bhuntar is a picturesque little town, and there’s nothing too spectacular about the natural beauty it has to offer. Still, it’s your kind of holiday destination if you love fewer tourist spots and prefer lesser-known places to relax.
Things to Do: Visit the Basheshwar Mahadev Temple, explore the Great Himalayan National Park, and enjoy local sightseeing.
How to Reach: Home to the Kullu-Manali Airport, making it easily accessible by air. Also, well connected by road.
Read Also: 20 Best Places to Visit in June 2023 in India
9. Kangra
It is located in the Himachal Pradesh district with Dharamshala as the headquarters for administration.
Kangra is also known for the backdrop of the Dhauladhar range, ancient temples, and endless tea plantations with the mighty Beas River flowing through the Valley. Within the holy Hindu scriptures, frequent mention of the River presents Kangra as ‘Devbhumi’ or the Land of the Gods.
Things to Do: Explore the Kangra Fort, visit the Masroor Rock Cut Temple, and enjoy the beauty of Kareri Lake.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Gaggal, about 13 km away. Well connected by road and rail, with the nearest railway station in Kangra.
Read also: Reaching Chamba, Himachal: Tips and Routes
10. Mcleodganj
Mcleodganj is a nearby Dharamshala hill station, popular amongst trekkers. Situated in the district of Kangra, the culture of Mcleodganj is a beautiful mix of Tibetan with some British influence. Read more details on the Top 10 Places to See in McLeod Ganj.
It is nestled between majestic hills and lush greenery; this town has one of the most mesmerizing landscapes in Himachal Pradesh. It attracts a lot of visitors all year round.
Things to Do: Visit the Tsuglagkhang Complex, trek to Triund, and explore the Bhagsu Falls.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Gaggal, about 20 km away. Accessible by road from Dharamshala.
View the package for the 2 Nights 3 Days Mcleodganj Tour Itinerary.
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11. Dalhousie
It is located far from the bustling cities of the world. This quaint town transports you in the lap of nature into a pollution-free environment. Dalhousie has a range of mountains and river streams that must be visited by visitors. Also, read details on the Best Places to Visit in Dalhousie.
The most famous among them are Panch Pulla, Satdhara Falls, and the Daikund top. The Scottish and Victorian architecture reminds you of its colonial roots. At the same time, British aromas tend to be honed by the wispy air. Read Also: Famous Things to Do in Dalhousie.
Things to Do: Walk on Thandi Sadak, visit Satdhara Falls, explore the ancient churches, and enjoy panoramic views from Dainkund Peak.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Pathankot, about 85 km away. Well connected by road.
12. Spiti Valley
The long winding roads and valleys will welcome you. It offers breathtaking glimpses of the cold desert and snow-crowned mountains as you set foot in the Spiti. Bordered by the Himalayas on all sides, Spiti Valley, located in Himachal Pradesh, has an altitude of 12,500 feet above sea level and gets about 250 days of sunshine a year it is one of the country’s coldest areas.
The dense Himalayan snow cuts Spiti off from the rest of the world for around six months a year. The summer months are the only time that Spiti can be accessed directly by motorway. Read More: 10 Beautiful Places to Visit in Spiti Valley.
Things to Do: Visit Key Monastery, explore Tabo Monastery, and enjoy the stunning landscapes of Pin Valley National Park.
How to Reach: Accessible by road via Manali or Shimla, depending on the season. The nearest airports are in Bhuntar and Shimla.
Check out the itinerary for the 6 Nights 7 Days Spiti Valley Tour Package from Delhi.
13. Tirthan Valley
The Tirthan Valley in the Himachal Pradesh district of Kullu is located at 1600 meters. Tirthan Valley lies about 3 km from the Great Himalayan National Park entrance, deriving its name from the Tirthan River that flows through it. This spot is full of adventurous activities and a paradise for nature lovers.
Things to Do: Enjoy trout fishing, trekking in the Great Himalayan National Park, and visit the Serolsar Lake.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Bhuntar, about 48 km away. Well connected by road.
Read more info: 5 Best Places to Visit in Tirthan Valley, Himachal Pradesh.
14. Khajjiar
Throughout the years, this place’s mesmerizing beauty has profoundly influenced and inspired many kingdoms like the Rajputs and Mughals.
Located at 6,500 feet above sea level, this place’s natural beauty and picturesque scenery are expected to leave an enduring impression on a visitor. Khajjiar is known for its nine-hole golf course nestled between lush greenery and stunning scenery.
Things to Do: Enjoy the beauty of the mini-Switzerland of India, visit the Khajjiar Lake and the Khajji Nag temple.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is in Dharamshala, about 122 km away. Accessible by road from Dalhousie and Chamba.
Read More: Top 10 Places to Visit in Khajjiar
15. Kinnaur
One of Himachal Pradesh’s twelve districts, Kinnaur, sits on the Indo-Tibet border. Located at a distance of 235 kilometers from Shimla, Kinnaur offers the Zanskar Valley views, the snow-draped Dhauladhar Range, Chitkul – the last village on the Indo-Tibetan border with the rivers Sutlej, Baspa, and Spiti.
The Kinnaur Valleys are also one of India’s most sought-after camping destinations, Sangla Valley. Apple orchard camps, Baspa, and Sutlej camping on the River are some of the scenic destinations to pitch your tents for an unforgettable campsite experience.
Things to Do: Visit the Kinnaur Kailash, explore the Sangla Valley, and visit the ancient temples in Kalpa.
How to Reach: Accessible by road from Shimla. The nearest airport is in Shimla.
Read Also: Best Places to Visit in North India in April
16. Tattapani
Tattapani, a popular tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh, is a quaint village 60 km away from Shimla. Located on the Sutlej River banks, it treasures in its best form many attractions lying amidst nature.
It is renowned for its hot sulfur bath. It is thought to have curative properties for health conditions such as stress, joint pain, exhaustion, and other skin diseases.
Things to Do: Enjoy hot water springs, river rafting on the Sutlej River, and visit the Shiva cave.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Shimla, about 60 km away. Well connected by road.
Read Also: Top 10 Himachal Pradesh attractions this December
17. Sangla
One of Kinnaur District’s most scenic valleys, Sangla Valley, is a great getaway from swarming the city’s hustle and bustle. It is named after the same name, after a beautiful village.
The Valley is set apart by its red apple orchard and luscious cherry trees, bounded by high mountain slopes, sprawling evergreen forests, and snow-covered peaks. Even the Baspa River makes its way through the area, meandering and gurgling, popular for trout fishing. The place is dotted with many attractions from the temple and fort to nearby villages, making it an amazing holiday destination.
Things to Do: Explore the Kamru Fort, visit the Chitkul village, and enjoy the Baspa River banks.
How to Reach: Accessible by road from Shimla. The nearest airports are in Shimla and Chandigarh.
Read Also: 100 Best Places to Visit in India
18. Naggar
This quaint little town in the Kullu district is typically covered with Kullu and is famous for its stunning natural beauty. Situated against the backdrop of majestic hills and the transparent and pristine Beas River, this tourist destination is perfect for people who want to relax and rejuvenate by living in nature’s lap.
Here even one can participate in trekking and camping. Renowned for abounding in unexplored natural beauty, Naggar’s town also has a castle that has now been converted into a heritage hotel that you can enjoy.
Things to Do: Visit the Naggar Castle, explore the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery, and enjoy local trekking.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Bhuntar, about 31 km away. Well connected by road from Manali and Kullu.
19. Parwanoo
It is a spot where one can appreciate a hill station’s captivating ambiance and a city’s hustle-bustle. Situated on the Haryana and Himachal Pradesh border, this small town offers lovely apple orchards and delicious fruit products.
Ideal for outdoor activities such as camping and trekking, this is also a destination for nature lovers. Formerly a sleepy town, Parwanoo today has developed into an industrial area. The verdant pine and fir trees covered together with the pleasant weather will make you fall in love with this place. Filled with lakes, temples, gardens, and a cable car ride, a trip to this town can be one of the most fun and sought-after.
Things to Do: Enjoy the Timber Trail, explore the fruit orchards, and visit the Gurkha Fort.
How to Reach: The nearest airport is Chandigarh, about 30 km away. Easily accessible by road and rail from major cities.
20. Beas Kund Trek
Apart from being a tourist destination popular, Manali is also the way to one of the most undertaken the Beas Kund Trek. This trek is a great weekend getaway plan that takes you away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Get a chance to enjoy the spectacular views of the Pir Pinjal mountain ranges over the Beas River. Let your soul get wooed by the spectacular Dhundi and Bakarthach meadows. Finally, the Beas Kund glacial lake that’s worth all the walks.
Things to Do: Experience a high-altitude alpine lake, enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas, and trek through Solang Valley.
How to Reach: The trek starts from Solang Valley, near Manali. The nearest airport is Bhuntar. Well connected by road from Manali.
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