Himachal Pradesh is a picture-perfect state that impresses visitors with scenic hill stations, quaint villages, snow-covered mountains, lush valleys, diverse flora and fauna, unblemished nature and abundant trekking trails. It is a veritable haven for nature lovers, adventurers and backpackers. Here’s our pick of the top places to visit in the ‘Abode of Snow‘.
Kasol
On the banks of Parvati River lies a photogenic hamlet of Kasol, also referred to as the ‘Little Israel of India’. Laidback and serene, Kasol is popular among backpackers and hippies, and with good reason. The stunning landscape of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, scenic waterfalls and undisturbed trekking routes makes it a paradise for nature lovers and trekkers, while the abundance of charming cafes, budget-friendly stay options and relaxed vibe makes it an amazing spot to backpack through.
While you’re in the region, it is worth exploring the nearby tiny hamlets, such as Chalal, which is known for its trance and psychedelic parties; Malana, known for its Malana Cream (cannabis); Rasol and Tosh, which are replete with lush greenery and tranquillity.
Kasol, Himachal Pradesh, India
Shimla
Also called the Queen of Hills, Shimla is a gorgeous colonial hill station, where picturesque vistas will greet you at every nook. A perfect place to wander, Shimla showcases some of the best colonial-era architecture, including the Viceregal Lodge, the Town Hall, Gaiety Theatre and the Christ Church. The city’s location at the foothills of the Himalayas amidst the lush greenery and snow-covered mountains makes it a perfect place for trekking and other outdoor fun. The appeal of the Queen of Hills increases manifold when the winter sets in – the entire city gets enveloped in snow, a sight to remember!
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India
Whether you are visiting Shimla during the summer, monsoon, autumn, or winter… as one of the popular hill stations in India and placed at an elevation of 2,205 meters, it has got its own charm which keeps shining throughout the year. The ideal vacation time for the Indian leisurescapers as well as international travellers to mesmerize the pleasant climate is during the summer. Whereas the monsoon, when the hill station is at its best of displaying lush green scenic beauty, welcomes the crazy travellers seeking for an adventure in the leisurescape. The autumn turns out to be mild and luxurious, pulling once again travellers from all over the world to explore the rich collaboration of nature and colonial heritage. During the peak winter season the hill station is carpeted with a thick layer of snow simply captivating the domestic travellers and pulling in thousands of skiers from all over the world. Shimla, throughout the decades, housing several colonial buildings such as the Christ Church, George Castle, and Wildflower Hall that is now a heritage hotel in Shimla; temples like the Jakhoo Temple and Tara Devi Temple; and museums, is valued as an important cultural hub in Himachal Pradesh. The Mall Road arraying with several shops of traditional crafts and dresses, hotels and restaurants… is one of the busiest places in Shimla throughout the day. From the bucket list of exploring the best of nature… one must visit the Chadwick Waterfalls and Daranghati Sanctuary. If you are planning for skiing in Shimla during the winter, the ideal places are the slopes of Kufri, which is an hour drive from the hill station. On the other hand, travellers seeking for bit of peace from the tourist crowd may drive to Chail that is approximately 45 kilometers from Shimla.
Manali
Yet another liaison with nature throughout the year takes place in Manali, which lies at an altitude of 2,050 meters in Kullu district. The nature here is a turf of spanning and scenic meadows and widely dispersed forest of alpine trees including deodar and pine AND apple, plum, and pear orchards in the lap of snow crested horizon. Manali, on the other hand, is the gateway to several remote places in Himachal Pradesh and also wide opens countless adventure activities like trekking, river rafting, paragliding, hiking, mountain biking, skiing and mountaineering. The Beas Kund Trek, Bhrigu Lake Trek, Malana Trek and Chandra Tal Trek are some of the popular trekking options from Manali that can be recommended both for amateur and experienced trekkers. The major tourist attractions in and around Manali are Hidimba Devi Temple, Pandoh Dam, Bijli Mahadev, Manali Sanctuary, and the Mall. Rohtang Pass at an altitude of approximately 4,000 meters, which is the highest point in the region, is undoubtedly a must visit place from Manali. The lush greenscape of Solang Valley that turns out to be one of the best skiing slopes in India… is another nearby attraction from Manali. If you are holidaying in Manali for a longer period then a trail through the Great Himalayan National Park is a must leading you to explore the spine-chilling wilderness.
Vashisht
Approximately 3 kilometers from Manali… Vashisht, which is a small hamlet with sandstone temples and hot sulphur springs, is the hub of travel hippies from all over the world. It houses some of the cheapest hotels in the region and hence you will find mostly a crowd of international travellers out there. Vashisht is also renowned as a Hindu pilgrimage site and is dotted with several ancient temples dedicated to various Hindu deities such as Vishnu, Rama, Lakshman, and Sita. It is one of the must visit places in Himachal Pradesh on your trip to Manali.
Dalhousie
The name itself represents the colonial colours. Dalhousie at an elevation of 1,970 meters is another popular hill station in India in Himachal Pradesh which is well known for housing several heritage buildings that dates back from the early 19th century. The St. Andrew’s Church and St. Patrick’s Church at Balun, St. Francis’ Church at Subash Chowk and St. John’s Church at Gandhi Chowk are some of the prominent churches in Dalhousie that reflects the typical European architectural style. Other attractions in Dalhousie are Rang Mahal, Chamunda Devi Temple, Jhandri Ghat, Shivkul ashram, and Bhuri Singh Museum. Set in the midst of thick forest of oak, pine and deodar in the Dhauladar range, Dalhousie is haven for wildlife enthusiast and landscape photographers. The Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, which is approximately 5 kilometers from Dalhousie, marks a pleasant gateway. It provides shelter to various species of flora and fauna AND also offers several forest trails including the Kalatop-Khajjiar trek.
Khajjiar
Located in Chamba district and just 24 kilometers away from Dalhousie, Khajjiar is another popular hill station that is tucked at an altitude of 2,000 meters. Khajjiar is long-familiar for hosting a picturesque ecosystem with lakes, pastures and forest. If you are looking for camping in Himachal Pradesh then this is it… where you can pitch your tent in the midst of wilderness.
Dharamshala
What could be more fascinating than taking in the view of the mighty snow capped peaks of Dhauladar range from a stone throw distance? Dharamshala at an elevation of approximately 1,500 meters and surrounded by dense pine and deodar forests is a perfect getaway for both leisure and adventurous travellers. The hill station is dotted with several architectural and cultural attractions that include the ruins of Kangra Fort and Nurpur Fort, which is approximately 66 kilometers away from Dharamshala; War Memorial that is dedicated to the Indian soldiers who lost their lives in Indo China war of 1962, Indo-Pak wars of 1947, 1965 and 1971 and UN peace operations; Chamunda Devi Temple; Kangra Art Museum; and Library of Tibetan Works and Archives. Moreover… the international cricket stadium in the lap of the Dhauladar range is another major tourist attraction in Dharamshala. Close to Dharamshala and at the Upper Valley, Mcleodganj, the seat of Dalai Lama, is a must visit place from Dharamshala. Mcleodganj houses the typical Indo-Tibetan culture and the major attraction is the impressive Namgyal Monastery that was built in the mid 16th century. Nonetheless, travellers looking for some leisure activities have the option of going for angling for Masheer at the River Beas in the 20 kilometer stretch between Nadaun and Pong Dam. Encircling the hill station there are several other attractions like the Bajreshwari temple, Kumar Pathri, Gyuto Monastery, Triund, and Jawalamukhi Temple. Travellers seeking to explore the best of Dhauladar Range… have the option of picking from treks such as Dhauladhar Round Trek, Indrahara Pass Trek, Moon Peak Trek, Nag Dal Trek, Kareri Lake Trek, and Lam Dal trek.
Kasol
Perched at an altitude of 1,650 meters and set beautifully in the Parvati Valley, Kasol is a small but another hill station in Himachal Pradesh that over the years has gained its popularity for housing a picturesque environment. It serves as a base camp for some of the moderate treks in Himachal Pradesh that include the Sar Pass, Yanker Pass, Pin Parvati Pass and Khiri Ganga.
Kasauli
Another colonial landmark in Himachal Pradesh that sits at an altitude of 1,927 meters, Kasauli in Solan district is popular for housing many tourist attractions that include the Baptist Church, Central Research Institute, Christ Church, Kasauli Brewery, Kasauli Club and Monkey Point.
Manikaran
popular pilgrimage site in Himachal Pradesh for both the Hindu and Sikh pilgrims, Manikaran at 1,760 meters is dotted with several temples –dedicated to various Hindu deities, and a gurdwara. There are also many hot water springs where devotees can take a sacred bath.
Remote Villages
Sangla
Perched at an altitude of 2,700 meters in the remote Kinnaur district, Sangla, overlooking the eye-popping Baspa Valley, is one of the must visit places in Himachal Pradesh that host numerous scenic attractions, trekking options, and nature walks. This remote town is set in the lap of the hulking mountains with a sparse settlement of Kinnauris, who are largely depended on agriculture. Thus the valley surrounding Sangla town is dotted with several apple orchards and cattle farms, which represents the valley’s serene environment. Further… to add to your things to do in Sangla and pack some traditional colours back home, go on a shopping spree for Kinnauri shawls, woolen socks, tweeds and silver jewelry studded with Tibetan pearls. To catch the best of the local culture you have the option of staying within them in the Dogris. Sangla, on the other hand, is a gateway to numerous treks and hikes. The Kinnaur-Kailash Circuit, Rupin Pass trek and Sangla-Kanda trek are some of the well known treks in Himachal Pradesh that marks a significant place in the toeing travellers’ diary. A short hike of 6 kilometers to Batseri Village is a must for the leisurescapers. Some other nearby attractions in and around Sangla are Kamru Fort, Trout Fish Firm, and Rakcham village.
Chitkul
The last inhabited village close to the Indo-Tibet Border on the old India-Tibet road, Chitkul in Kinnaur district at an elevation of 3,450 meters boasts off a rich traditional atmosphere. Dotted with approximately 150 slate and wooden plank rooftop houses in the lap of the jaw-breaking mountainscape, the village is mostly inhabited by various tribal settlements. On your trip to Chitkul you can visit the 500 years old Mathi Devi Temple, which is a typical example of the Himachali architecture built in wood and stone with intricate carvings; Chitkul Fort, which is a three storied architecture with a combination of wood and stone; and the nearby Buddhist temple. Some other villages that you can visit from Chitkul are Nichar , Wangtu , Karcham , Rakcham, Reckong-Peo , Puh , and Kibber. The Jalori Pass trek from Narkanda is one of the popular treks in Himachal Pradesh that passes through Chitkul and thus making the remote village one of the popular stopovers for trekkers.
Kalpa
Another remote village in Himachal Pradesh in the Kinnaur district that is tucked in the midst of several apple orchards and dense pine and deodar forests, Kalpa at an elevation of 2,960 meters is a natural gallery of many ancient Buddhist and Hindu temples. Surrounding the village there are several other attractions for tourists that include some architectural excellence like Kamru Fort, Naga Temple, and Sapni Fort. The Chini village with rich heritage and tradition makes for a pleasant hike from Kalpa. Some other walks for pleasure from Kalpa can be to villages like Batseri, Kothi, and Roghi. The panoramic view of the Kinner Kailash Peak that looms at an altitude of 6,500 meters is a must to capture on a spotless sunny sky from Kalpa.
Dhankar
Located in between the towns of Kaza and Tabo in the district of Lahaul-Spiti, Dhankar at an elevation of 3,894 meters is home to the ancient Dhankar Gompa, which belongs to the Gelugpa sect of Buddhism. In the midst of the barren landscape, the gompa that was built as a fort monastery is the residence of several Buddhist monks and houses a statue of Vairochana (Dhayan Buddha) consisting of 4 figures seated back to back in addition to various crumbling thangkas. The gompa is also crafted with a small museum displaying a wide range of ancient artifacts.
Kaza
Set at an altitude of 3,231 meters, Kaza is one of the remote villages in the Lahaul-Spiti district that houses several tourist attractions including the ancient Sakya Tangyud Monastery. Close to Kaza, the Ki monastery is also a must visit place. Some other remote villages like Kibber, Gette, Langza and Losar can also be explored on your trip to Kaza.
At a Glance
Treks Route Type Max. Alt.
Bhaba valley Trek Kaza-Sangam-Mud-Laptse-Devachan-Got-Bhabha-Shimla Easy 4,890 meters
Tabo
One of the holiest places in the remote and barren landscape of Lahaul and Spiti district, Tabo is the home to the ancient Tabo Monastery that was built in the 10th century. It houses a rich collection of thankas, frescoes, manuscripts, well-preserved statues, murals and paintings. The complex also includes 9 temples, 4 Stupas, 23 chortens and monks quarters. Tabo village must be visited during the Kalachakra Festival, which is one of the popular festivals in the Indian Himalayan region breaking the complex teachings, philosophies and practices in Tibetan Buddhism. This festival is usually held in the month of July.
Malana
It is an isolated and ancient village in Kullu valley that is located at an elevation of 3,029 meters and can only be accessed on foot. The Malana trek, which is a 4-5 days of trek from Manali, passes through the Chandrakhani Pass at 3660 meters, which is accessible from Chiklani at 2370 meters after crossing Rumsu via Naggar. Malana preserves a rich indigenous culture and is dotted with a small cluster of around two hundred stone roof houses.
At a Glance
Treks Route Type Max. Alt.
Malana Village trek Manali-Ganachalani-Chanderkhani Pass-Dadru-Malana-Jari-Kullu Moderate 3,650 meters
Lakes
Nako Lake
Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh is one of the least explored places in the Indian Himalayan region… and Nako Lake at an elevation of 3,662 meters in the village of Nako is one such place in Himachal Pradesh that remains unfold to general tourists. It is a small lake that is surrounded by Willow and Poplar trees. Close to the Nako Lake there are four Buddhist temples and the Nako Monastery is one of the major attractions for travellers’ exploring the site. The Tashigang village, which is few miles from Nako village, is yet another least explored place in the Indian Himalayan region and houses several caves where it is believed that Guru Padmasambhava meditated and gave discourse to followers.
Beas Kund
The source of the Beas River that cuts and runs through one of the beautiful hill stations in India, Manali, the Beas Kund at an elevation of 3,690 meters is a pristine lake in the midst of the stunning mountainscape. The journey to Beas Kund starts from Solang and is one of the easy treks in Himachal Pradesh that can be completed in couple of days. Thus the Beas Kund Trek is recommended for both experienced trekkers and escapers on a leisure holiday in Himachal Pradesh.
Bhrigu Lake
Named after the great saint Brighu, the Bhrigu Lake at an elevation of 4,235 meters is a sacred lake that is approximately 6 kilometers from Gulaba village. The lake is easily accessible on foot via Rohtang Pass and thus it makes for a perfect trail for both amateur and experienced trekkers. The Bhrigu Lake Trek, which is one of the easy treks from Manali, is also recommended for leisure travellers’ who seek to capture the sweeping view of the Himachal Himalayan scree and discover the breathtaking beauty of the Beas Valley. Further… one can even explore the surrounding landscape and get a distant view of the Deo Tibba glacier and Sethan village.
Chandra Taal
crescent shaped lake that is situated at an altitude of 4,300 meters on the barren landscape of the Samudra Tapu plateau, the Chandra Taal or Moon Lake is a sweet water lake that can be accessed via Kunzum Pass. It is a popular hub for trekkers and campers and one can sight during the spring time a wide range of wildflowers carpeted over the surrounding meadows. It is believed that the source of this lake lies underground as there is no visible inlet but having a visible outlet.
Suraj Tal
Another sacred body of water that lies in the lap of the Bara-lacha-la Pass on the Manali-Leh Highway, the Suraj Tal at an altitude of 4,883 meters is one of the beautiful high altitude lakes in the Indian Himalayan regionIt is the source of the Bhaga River that joins the Chandrabhaga River in Himachal Pradesh and thereafter meets the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir. It is the 5th highest lake in India that pulls in travellers’ from all over the world. Located approximately 65 kilometers from Keylong in the district of Lahaul-Spiti, Suraj Tal makes for a refreshing stopover for travellers’ like mountain bikers and trekkers. Close to Suraj Tal, the small Deepak Lake is yet another important stopover.
Dashir Lake
Close to Rohtang Pass, the Dashir Lake at an altitude of 4,270 meters is a good option for hikers looking for a day’s escape from Manali. Glistering with its crystal clear cobalt water, the lake is considered as one of the pious lakes in Himachal Pradesh as it is believed to be curative in nature. In the midst of the rugged terrain and remote Himachali settlements… the vicinity of the Dashir Lake offers a scenic and spanning backdrop of snowcapped mountains.
Kareri Lake
One of the shallow fresh water lakes in the Kangra district, the Kareri Lake is yet another high altitude lake in Himachal Pradesh that is fed by the snow melting from the Dhauladhar Range. It is enfolded by mountains at an elevation of 2,930 meters and can be accessed by foot from Kareri village, which is one of the tribal villages in Himachal Pradesh. The Kareri village is approximately 13 kilometers from Macleodganj and the trek passes through the pine forests and crosses several other small villages. Kareri Lake also serves as the gateway for trekking deep into the Dhauladhar and towards Chamba and Bharmour via the Minkiani Pass at 4,250 meters and Baleni Pass at 3,710 meters. Some other nearby attractions from Kareri Lake are Rawa village, Una Devi Temple and Triund.
Prashar Lake
Located at an altitude of 2,730 meters in Mandi district, the Prashar Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Himachal Pradesh… not just because of the glittering blue water during the summer that turns to frozen disc like shape during the winter, but because of the pleasant surrounding that it holds. Stunning meadows and the breathtaking view of the farfetched snowcapped mountains enlivening the travellers’ mindscape simply speaks of an unmatched natural beauty. Close to the lake, the three storied pagoda-like temple dedicated to the sage Prashar, which almost remains buried under snow during the winter, is one of the major attractions. Some other nearby attractions are the little hamlet of Chindi, ancient temple of Shikhra Devi, and Kamru Nag Lake. The Prashar Lake trek, which is one of the easy treks in Himachal Pradesh, starts from Baggi village (approximately 200 kilometers from Kullu and 40 kilometers from Mandi) and is only a one day trek. For travellers on their trip to Himachal Pradesh looking for little bit of adventure and camping to seek the pleasure of an unparalleled nature, the Prashar Lake trek is undoubtedly an ingenious pick.
Manimahesh Lake
The sparkling holy water of the Mani Mahesh Lake at 4,080 meters is located in the foot of the Kailash Peak that looms at an altitude of 5,656 meters in the Pir Panjal Range. The Mani Mahesh Lake is considered as one of the pilgrimage sites in the Indian Himalayan region having religious importance next to that of the Manasarovar Lake in Tibet. Many pilgrims, during the auspicious day of Radha-asthmi and Janamashtmi every year, pay their sacred visit to wash away their sins. Nonetheless… the Manimahesh Lake trek that commences from Dharamshala and passes through the rich biosphere via Dancho into the Budhil Valley is a popular trek in Himalachal Pradesh, which stretches for approximately 4-5 days. One can even hire ponies to reach the vicinity of the Manimahesh Lake.
Lama Dal
Located at an altitude of 3,990 meters, the Lama Dal or Lamba Dal is one of the seven tarns that and is located close to the Balaini Pass. It can be only accessible on foot via Minkiyani Pass at 4,268 meters from Chamba, which is approximately 45 kilometers away. The Lama Dal is considered as a sacred lake by the locals and one can also visit a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This strenuous trek in Himachal Pradesh originates from Bhatog in Chamba district and continues to Macleodganj in Kangra district. One can get stunning views of the Dhauladhar Range from the vicinity of the Lama Dal.
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