Himachal Pradesh is synonymous with scenic beauty, serene landscape, and adventure sports. Literally, Himachal means “the land of snow”. Situated in the western Himalaya, Himachal Pradesh has several hill stations which are the most appropriate destination to find respite from the scorching summer heat. Here’s a list of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh on your trip to the land of the Himalayas.
22 Best Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh
Scroll down and find the most charming tourist hotspots in Himachal that should definitely be on your travel list this year. And while these places are perfect for visiting throughout the year, here’s the best time to visit them to witness them in all their glory. Take a look!
- Kullu-Manali – May To July And November To January
- Shimla – May To July And November To January
- Dharamshala – May To July And November To January
- Kasauli – November To March And December To January
- Bir Billing – May To July
- Malana – May To August
- Dalhousie – April To July
- Spiti + Tabo + Kaza – May To July
- Kasol – May And June
- Khajjiar – May To June
- Mashobra – May To June
- Palampur – Throughout The Year
- Kinnaur – June To September
- Kufri – November To March
- Chail – Throughout The Year
- McLeod Ganj – October To June
- Chitkul – March To April And September To October
- Solang Valley – December To January
- Shoghi – October To June
- Tirthan Valley – March To June, And October To November
- Narkanda – Throughout The Year
- Barot – April To June, And November To February
1. Kullu-Manali – Country’s Famous Hill Station
One of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh is Kullu and Manali. If you are on a lookout for fresh air and green mountains amidst the snow-covered ranges then Kullu Manali indeed should be on the top of your list.
Ideal for: Everyone! But it is a hot favorite amongst newlyweds.
Ideal duration: 4-5 days
Best time to visit: May-July and November-January for snowfall.
How to reach: Chandigarh is the nearest airport, 252 Kms away. The nearest railhead is also in Chandigarh, 270 Kms away. Kullu is 570 Kms from Delhi via road.
Things to do:
- Indulge in adventure sports at Solang Valley
- Visit Manali Bird Sanctuary
- Go trekking, camping, angling & river rafting in Kullu
- Visit the Old temples
Nearby famous places: Solang, Rohtang, Manikaran, Malana, Khirganga
Himachal Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle
Head to Himachal to witness lush valleys surrounded by snow-capped hills. Indulge in skiing, paragliding, and other adventure sports. Book holiday packages inclusive of airport transfers, cab, resort, sightseeing, and meals to Shimla, Manali, Kasol, Dharamshala, and more.
2. Shimla – The Capital Of Himachal Pradesh
One of the most famous hill stations of Northern India – Shimla which is the right mix of Indian glory with British sophistication.it is consecrated stunning landscape and fresh climate all through the year.
Ideal for: Family and friends
Ideal Duration: 3-4days
Best time to visit: May –July and November-January for snowfall.
How to reach: Kalka, in turn, is the nearest railhead, which is connected to Chandigarh and Delhi by regular trains. Chandigarh is at a distance of 117 kilometers, Manali at 260 kilometers and Delhi at 343 kilometers.
Things to do:
- Full fill your shopping desire at the Mall Road
- Enjoy a trek to jakhu hill and a visit to Lord Hanuman’s Temple
- Visit to the Viceregal Lodge to appreciate the British elegance
- Try your hands on Polo at Annandale which is 4km from the Ridge
Nearby famous places: Tattapani, Solan, Mashobra
3. Dharamshala – The Residence Of Dalai Lama
Dharamsala definitely has to be on your list of best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. Famous not only because of its climate but also you get to see how multicultural Indian community lives in harmony with the Indo Tibetan community.
Ideal for: Friends or Solo Travelers
Ideal duration: 2-3days
Best time to visit: May –July and November-January for snowfall
How to reach: The nearest major railway station is at Pathankot, 85 kilometers away. Dharamshala is well-connected to Delhi The journey is almost 520 kilometers from Delhi. The drive from Delhi via Chandigarh is about 12 hours.
Things to do:
- Enjoy a boat ride across the Dal Lake and witness the royal the Kangra Fort.
- Pay homage to the Bhagsunath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and simultaneously enjoy the cascading Bhagsu falls.
- Visit various monasteries, the Kangra Art Museum, the Dalai Lama Temple Complex and see the magnificent tea plantation on the foothills of Kangra valley.
Nearby famous places: Khajjiar, Bir Billing, Palampur
4. Kasauli – The Gateway To Himachal
Kasauli is a perfect getaway from the hustle bustle of the city and is one of the most serene places to visit in Himachal in June. Almost on the outskirts of Punjab and Haryana, it is well connected by roadways.
Ideal for: Friend and Family
Ideal duration: 3-4 days
Best time to go visit: November – March & December – January for snowfall.
How to reach: The nearest airport is in Chandigarh, 70 km away. The nearest train station is Sonwara which is 4km away. It is 293 km from New Delhi and takes about 7 hours.
Things to do:
- Visit to the Anglican Church which was built during the British era.
- Enjoy a great stroll or a trek on the lower mall which leads to the Monkey point which is in the shape of a Lord Hanuman’s foot.
- A must watch is the sunrise and the sunset point where you can witness the most beautiful sky.
- If you are fond of walking and exploring the nature then do take the Gilbert Trail
Nearby famous places: Parwanoo, Solan
5. Bir Billing – An Adventure-Seeker’s Paradise
If you’re an adventure seeker, Bir Billing is the mecca for adventure sports and it has to be on your list of the top places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. Bir is a small village which is located on the western side of Himachal Pradesh and is blessed with some refreshing climate.
Ideal for: Backpackers and adventure seekers
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
Best time to visit: May-July
How to reach: The closest airport to Bir is Dharamshala airport (in Gaggal) about 30-45 minutes south of Dharamshala. Train to Pathankot + bus/taxi onward to Bir. And then a taxi from Pathankot to Bir: 4-5 hours Bir is about 12-14 hours from Delhi by bus. Take a bus to either Baijnath or Bir Road.
Things to do:
- Experience some adrenaline rush as you paraglide in the beautiful Himalayan valleys and camp amazing weather and safe surroundings.
- Visit the gorgeous Buddhism monasteries in Bhattu, Choggan and Chauntra Bhattu colony located in center of the forest.
- Just around 10 kms from Bir Billing is the beautifully carved 13th-century Vaidyanath devoted to Lord Shiva.
- Visit the Palampur Tea Cooperative where you can attend a free tour to see the tea making process.
Nearby famous place: Dharamshala
6. Malana – To Get Your Spirits High!
Looking for a digital detox, then Malana is the place you must visit in Himachal Pradesh in August. Situated near the Kullu Valley, Malana provides spellbinding views of the Deo Tiba and Chandrakhani crests.
Ideal for: Trekkers, Solo Travelers and anyone who wants to disconnect from the world
Ideal Duration: 3-4 Days
Best time to visit: The best time to go is early May to August
How to reach: The nearest airport is Kullu. By road, Malana is 378 km away from Delhi and takes roughly 10hrs. The closest railhead is Shimla and then take a cab.
Things to do:
- Enjoy some stimulating weather in this gorgeous village which is also called the little Greece of India.
- Panoramic scenes of the snow clad Himalayas from Chanderkhani pass and capture the mesmerizing beauty of Kheer Ganga valley.
- Trek through spectacular forests and across Alpine pastures with tremendous views.
- Visit the pilgrim center Manikaran which has a hot water spring.
- Be a part of regional festivals in Malana village, with its idiosyncratic culture and customs.
Nearby famous places: Kasol, Manikaran, Tosh
7. Dalhousie – Mini Switzerland Of India
Dalhousie is yet another hill station in Himachal Pradesh which is ideal for de-stressing in the serene, tranquil troposphere. Away from the hustle-bustle of the city life, sit back and enjoy the nature in Dalhousie, one of the top places to visit in Himachal Pradesh.
Ideal for: Honeymooners
Ideal duration: 2-3days
Best time to visit: April to July
How to reach: The closest airport is Dharamsala which is 5 hours away. The closest railhead is Pathankot’s Chakki Bank (71 km from Dalhousie) and then take a cab which takes around 10 hours.
Things to do:
- Experience the beauty of nature in the valley of Khajjiar which is also known as the Switzerland of India
- Enjoy a gentle walk or a trek in the beautiful terrain in Dainkund Walk, Ganji Pahadi Walk and Bakrota Walk.
- Visit the St. John’s Church, oldest church of the town carries vast historical implication
Relish the cascading waterfalls near Delhi – namely the Chamera falls and the Satdhara falls
Nearby famous places: Dharamshala, Khajjiar, Kalatop
8. Spiti + Tabo + Kaza – Offbeat Destinations For Avid Travelers
Spiti Valley is one of the most attractive hidden gems of North India. Straddling the river Spiti, it is home to numerous of the most divine of Buddhist destinations as well as some of the most widespread tourist destinations.
Ideal for: friends and family
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
Best time to visit: May-July
How to reach: Kullu Airport at Kullu is the nearest airport. Shimla is the nearest railway station from Kaza. Roadways from Delhi to Shimla and then take a cab.
Things to do:
- Spectate the Chunpa fue or walk to ancient traditional meditation centre at Lari Dupuk.
- Visit the Millennium Monastery, Gue mummy or Dhankar monastery and rock carving at Tabo.
- Hike to Angla and Phela – nomadic plains on the hills north of Tabo
- Go for a traditional phootoshot at Nadang Lhakhang and attend the cultural show (cham dance), with local food and tea.
- Walk to famous rangrik rewa cave, visit the Snow point Kunzom and if lucky enjoy the Snow Leopard / Ibex sighting and river rafting.
Nearby famous places: Kibber, Pin Valley National Park
9. Kasol – Trek To Your Heart’s Delight
Known as the little Israel of India in Himachal Pradesh, based in the Parvati Valley is this beautiful hill station called Kasol. It’s just on the way to the holy town of Manikaran.
Ideal for: Backpackers and trekkers
Ideal duration: 3 Days
Best time to visit: May and June
How to reach: The nearest airport is Kullu which takes about 3 hours. The nearest railhead is Shimla. Take a bus from Delhi to Shimla and then take a cab which is roughly 381 km
Things to do:
- Ideal for hiking in the jungle – follow the trails along the Parvati river
- Trek to Kheerganga is mesmerizing where you can experience the hot water spring.
- Parvati valley is an ideal trail for trekking also known as the ‘Stoner’s Paradise’.
Nearby famous places: Malana, Manikaran, Tosh, Khirganga
10. Khajjiar – A Perfect Family Getaway Awaits
Located in the Chamba district, this gorgeous valley is one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. Its indeed a great place to relax and unwind in the beautiful and refreshing environment.
Ideal for: Friends and family
Ideal Duration: 3 Days
Best time to visit: May to June
How to reach: The nearest airport is Dharamshala and then a taxi 122 km. There is an overnight train from New Delhi to Pathankot and then take a taxi for 110 km. Regular bus service from New Delhi to Shimla is also available.
Things to do:
- Visit the Khajjiar Lake and Ground via the Bakrota Hills from Dalhousie
- Pay tribute to the Khajji Nag Temple which is one of the most ancient temples
- Enjoy the serenity of local villages known for its apple orchards
- Relish the mercerizing views of Mount Kailash which is believed to be the home to Lord Shiva
Nearby famous places: Chamba, Kalatop, Dalhousie
11. Mashobra – A Well-kept Secret
Located just 13 km away from Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, Mashobra is a well-kept secret for someone who’s done with tourist places in Himachal Pradesh. Though the distance is not much, this is a new world in itself, sprinkled with deodar trees through and through. Get going in the jungles during the day, try out various adventure activities like zip lining and spend the night under the stars camping; do whatever you please in this paradise and prove why it is among the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in summer!
Ideal for: Friend, solo
Ideal duration: 1 night 2 days
Best time to visit: May to June
How to reach: Deboard the bus in Shimla and take another bus/cab heading towards Mashobra. The nearest railway station in Shimla (Toy train) and the nearest airport is Shimla Airport in Jubbarhatti.
Things to do:
- Indulge in adventure activities like zip lining and rappelling
- Explore the jungles as you trek through at your own pace
- Dodge the currents while river rafting in Mashobra
- Spend an evening birdwatching
- Camp the night away, with bonfire, friends and your favorite music
Nearby famous places: Shimla, Solan, Kufri, Tattapani
12. Palampur – Dotted With Tea Gardens
Listed among rather offbeat places of Himachal, Palampur is famed for its tea gardens and zoo. This is an ideal place to visit with family, as children and parents will find many attractions equally interesting. The scenic splendor will have you bewitched and thanks to easy accessibility and number of accommodation options, it is a perfect weekend getaway from Delhi.
Ideal for: Family
Ideal duration: 1 night 2 days
Best time to visit: Anytime
How to reach: Palampur is best visited via bus/road. The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport, Dharamsala (37 km) and the nearest railway station is Pathankot Railway Station (112 km)
Things to do:
- Go for a slow-paced trek, while also visiting the local villages in the area
- Get face to face with wild animals in local zoo
- Spend an evening boat riding
- Visit the tea gardens and savor the best taste while you’re at it
Nearby famous places: Dharamshala
Suggested Read: Friends On An Adventure Trip To Manali: A Journey Full Of Joy And Thrill
13. Kinnaur – Apples And Colorful Ethnicity
Known for its apples, Kinnaur is often called the Land of Gods and is among the most offbeat places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in summer. The paradise is 235 km away from Shimla, in the northeast ends of Himachal Pradesh. Bestowed with a vibrant cultural scenario, Kinnaur’s landscape is bejeweled with gigantic snow-clad mountains. Currently, it is not under tourists radar, so if you want to go off the beaten road, Kinnaur it is!
Ideal for: Family, solo
Ideal duration: 1 night 2 days
Best time to visit: June to September
How to reach: Kinnaur is best visited via bus/road. The nearest airport is Shimla Airport (277 km) and the nearest railway station is Shimla Toy Train Station (259 km)
Things to do:
- Go on a heritage trail, exploring Kamru Fort, Nako Gompa and hamlets
- Spend some serene time beside Nako Lake
- Savor Tibetan delicacies at Tibetan Cafetaria
Nearby famous places: Shimla
Suggested Read: Top 10 Resorts In Himachal For A Truly Spoiling Holiday
14. Kufri – The Snowy Retreat
Every snow lover’s favourite destinations in the hills of Himachal, Kufri lies in close proximity to Shimla. Owing to its higher altitude, it’s laden with snow throughout the winter, which also makes it a dreamy attraction for couples and honeymooners. One of the top places to visit in Himachal Pradesh with your better half, Kufri is an excellent spot to explore near Shimla if you’re done with the latter. Though there aren’t a lot of tourist attractions in Kufri, the panoramic snowy views, the serene temples, and the trekking opportunities will make your getaway worthwhile.
Ideal for: Couples, skiing enthusiasts, hikers
Ideal duration: 1 night 2 days
Best time to visit: November to March
How to reach: Kufri is best visited via bus/road and it is just 10 km away from Shimla. The nearest airport is Shimla Airport (34.4 km) followed by Chandigarh Airport (138 km). The nearest railway station is Shimla Railway Station (16.2 km)
Things to do:
- Nature trekking and hiking tours
- Skiing in the winters
- Visiting the Nag Temple
Nearby famous places: Shimla
Suggested Read: 8 Things To Do In Chail For A Thrilling Mountain Escape
15. Chail – The Untouched Gem
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.
Ideal for: Hikers, family, solo
Ideal duration: 2 nights 3 days
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
How to reach: Chail is best visited via bus/road. The nearest airport is Shimla Airport (62 km) followed by Chandigarh Airport (117 km). The nearest railway station is Shimla Railway Station (53.5 km)
Things to do:
- Spot Himalayan wildlife at the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary
- Visit the world’s highest cricket ground
- Go hiking in the pristine pine and deodar jungles
Nearby famous places: Shimla, Kufri
Suggested Read: A Fun-Filled 4 Days Solo Female Trip To Himachal
16. McLeod Ganj – Little Lhasa
McLeod Ganj is a tiny town in Himachal Pradesh close to Dharamshala. It is also called the ‘Little Lhasa’ due to the number of Tibetans settled here. It is a perfect blend of India and Tibet and one can see this walking down the colorful lanes of this little town. Mcleod is a perfect destination for solo travelers and families alike due to the ambiance the city has. Enjoy amazing food at the beautiful cafes in the market at Mcleodganj and have some of the best meals with a view there.
Ideal for: Family, friends, and solo
Ideal duration: 2-3 days
Best time to visit: October – June
How to reach: Pathankot Railway Station is the nearest railway station which is 90 km away. One can also travel via road in a private car or buses which will drop you at Mcleod Ganj bus stand.
Things to do:
- City sightseeing or tour around the city
- Shop at the local markets for jewelry and woolens
- Enjoy meals with mountain vistas
Nearby famous places: Dharamshala, Dharamkot, Bir Billing
17. Chitkul – Last Village Of India
In the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh lies this quaint hamlet of Chitkul. The village isn’t too common amidst travelers yet, and so one can enjoy the scenic beauty in calm and peaceful environs. Close to the Indo-China border, it is the last inhabited village. This serene village is mostly covered in snow during the winters, so the best time to visit it is during the summers.
Ideal for: Friends, solo
Ideal duration: 1-2 days
Best time to visit: March – April and September – October
How to reach: Roadways buses can be taken to reach Chitkul
Things to do:
- Visit the Mathi Temple
- Hike to the Charang Chitkul Pass
- Sit by the Baspa River
Nearby famous places: Sangla, Solang Valley
18. Solang Valley
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When traveling to Manali on vacation, Solang Valley is one of the most important Himachal Pradesh tourist places. The Solang Valley, located 14 kilometers northwest of Manali, is one of the most popular tourist destinations here. The valley is located on the road between Manali and Rohtang and attracts many tourists every year. The Solang Valley is a popular destination for adventure lovers who love skydiving, paragliding, horseback riding or mini-jeeps especially designed for tourists of all ages. During the winter months, the Solang Valley is covered in snow. Skiing is a popular sport here, with training institutes and trainers in the valley looking after skiers and beginners.
Ideal for: Adventure enthusiasts
Ideal duration: 3 – 4 hours
Best time to visit: December to January
How to reach: Take NH21 or a bus from the neighbouring states
Things to do:
- Skiing
- Zorbing
- Paragliding
Nearby famous places: Manali, Rohtang
19. Shoghi
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While Shimla is flooded with tourists every year, the serenity and personalized beauty of Shoghi is rarely discovered. Shoghi, a small mountain town stationed only 13 km from Shimla, is full of picturesque landscapes and has a great variety of flora and fauna, making it one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in winter. This small town offers beautiful ancient temples for activities full of adrenalin along with famous fruits. Incredible climate all year round, perfect accommodation and ideal environment makes it the perfect place to rejuvenate your senses.
Ideal for: Nature lovers
Ideal duration: 1-2 days
Best time to visit: October to June
How to reach: Take an interstate or local bus. Nearest airport is in Chandigarh
Things to do:
- Visit the temples
- Hiking
- Trekking
- Camping
Nearby famous places: Shimla, Narkand, Chail
20. Tirthan Valley
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The Tirthan Valley is a destination full of delights. Located 3 km from the Himalayan National Park, this place is full of adventure activities – all the while being a nature lover’s paradise. This valley, which includes the larger Himalayas, with its snow-capped peaks and views of the Tirthan River, is best known for its fishing and the surprising influx of foreigners. The Tirthan Valley offers a magical environment and green paths that lead to small picturesque villages nearby, accompanied by a fantastic location all year round.
Ideal for: nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts
Ideal duration: 3-5 days
Best time to visit: March to June, October to November
How to reach: By state buses
Things to do:
- Rappelling
- Visit Great Himalayan National Park
Nearby famous places: Khajjiar, Kasol, Spiti
21. Narkanda
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The town, located 2700 meters above sea level, attracts tourists due to its natural beauty and magnificent apple orchards. Surrounded by alpine forests and towering hills, this is a place travelers should not miss in Himachal Pradesh. It has a lake, Tannu Jabar – one of the main tourist attractions in the region. There is also a temple near the lake, which is a must for all who come here. Narkanda also offers several trekking routes for the more adventurous crowd. The Hatu Nag is all but a challenge that you can climb. In winter you can also go skiing.
Ideal for: nature lovers
Ideal duration: 1 day
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
How to reach: State buses
Things to do:
- Trekking
- Skiing
- Rock climbing
Nearby famous places: Manali, Mcleodganj, Kasauli
22. Barot
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Very few people know of Barot and the unexplored landscapes scattered here. For those looking for pristine destinations, this is the perfect place to be in the heart of beautiful Himachal Pradesh. Barot was popped up on the radar when, around 1920, the hydropower project Shanan was proposed in India. It was mainly proposed to utilize the hydropower potential of the Uhl between Barot and Joginderagar. Since then, it has become a tourist destination, but only a few people know about it.
Ideal for: those looking for offbeat destinations.
Ideal duration: 1-2 days
Best time to visit: April – June; November – February,
How to reach: It is 66 kilometers from Mandi. You can take a bus.
Things to do:
- Recreational Trekking
- Camping
- Fishing
Nearby famous places: Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary, Rewalsar Lake