Himachal Pradesh is an Indian state located in the northern part of the country. Endowed with lofty Himalayan mountains, ancient religious sites and a cheerful culture, Himachal Pradesh is home to famous tourist destinations like Kullu, Manali, Chamba and Shimla.
Himachal Pradesh is known as the state of apples all over India. It is also known for scenic landscapes, culture, adventure sports and a variety of fairs, festivals and celebrations throughout the year. From Hinduism to Christianity and Sikhism, every religion is sure to find a home in the "Abode of God". McLeod Ganj, the abode of the 14th Dalai Lama is worth visiting. Himachal Pradesh also has plenty of forts, palaces, and monasteries that are of utmost cultural and historical importance. Shimla, a very popular vacation destination among Indians, offers a visual treat for history buffs as well as experience seekers.
The best time to visit Himachal Pradesh is when the weather settles down after a heavy downpour and gusty winds. The best season to visit Himachal, hence, would be the summer season. These months stretch out from March to June and September to December. Himachal Pradesh can be visited at any point during the year, depending on the kind of weather conditions you prefer. If you are a person seeking adventure and sports, you should visit Himachal Pradesh during the winter. However, if you are just an explorer, then summer season is the best time with bounty of attractions and places to visit in Himachal. If you love to see the rain and cherish the aftermath of a heavy shower, you should go in the monsoon season. Himachal Pradesh has all weather activities, which has given a boost to Himachal tourism.
Let’s have a look at our month-wise segregation to help you decide on the best time.
March - June:
With temperature ranging from 9 degree to 37 degree celsius, the period of March to June, i.e. the summer season is the best time to visit Himachal. However, because of high altitude and plenty of forests around, the weather is pleasant here than the mainland; making it perfect for sightseeing and adventure.
Besides that you can also attend some festivals, including Maha Shivratri in Mandi, the seven-day Nalwari Festival, and more.
July - September:
Here comes the season of monsoon in the hills during the months of July to September. With temperature ranging in between 14 degree and 21 degree celsius, the region experiences heavy downpour. Hence, it is advised to make a visit here during the early monsoon period.
However, one can enjoy the celebration of Minjar Festival, Phulaich and other festivals while on a tour this time.
October - February:
The winter season, ie. October to February months are considered as the best time to visit Himachal. Perfect for adventure enthusiasts and newlyweds alike, an excursion to the hill station can be enjoyed at the utmost.
Partake in festivals like: Lohri, International Himalayan Festival and more.
The summer months in Himachal Pradesh extend from March to June. These four months let you explore the best of the destination and prove to be the best time for Himachal tour. You can step out whenever you like, only to find the best weather conditions. The sun shines bright and by dawn, the weather becomes slightly cooler. This mix of hot and cool will tempt you into staying out the entire day, eating out and exploring the new and old places of Himachal Pradesh.
Monsoon Season in Himachal
The monsoon season in Himachal often makes it a little inconvenient to travel. You should be extra cautious while driving as the roads tend to be more slippery and must always carry an umbrella at all times. But is making this effort worth it? Yes! Monsoons add a heavenly touch to the hills, adding that tinge of excellence to the gorgeous hills of Himachal Pradesh. Planning a visit during this season will definitely paint a memory in you mind that will last a lifetime.
Winter Season in Himachal
The winter season in Himachal Pradesh is the ideal season for thrill-seekers, all adrenaline junkies must visit Himachal during this time. Skiing and hiking top the list of the best adventure sports in Himachal during the winter season. If you have ever dreamt of experiencing snowfall amidst the gorgeous snow capped mountains, then planning a trip during the winter season in Himachal Pradesh would be the ideal pick.
Himachal Pradesh is one of India’s most beautiful destination in north India for Hill stations, full of mystical dreamy charms, enveloped in a unique mesmerizing appeal. The popular Hill stations of Himachal Pradesh are always full of tourists, be it any season or time of the year. Hence, presented here is a comprehensive guide on how to reach Himachal Pradesh most conveniently by Air, Road and Train mediums.
By Road
Any lack in Train or air connectivity is more than compensated by roads which link to all major cities across India. The roads are tough and reliable. Besides there are affordable bus services organized by the State Government that also connect well to other important cities like Kashmir, Delhi, Haryana and Chandigarh.
By Train
Being a mountainous area, surrounded by lofty hills, there are no major railway tracks anywhere within the state. For tourists opting for railway travel, the best option to reach Himachal is the Kalka Railway Station, located approximately 90 kilometers away from Shimla. From here, you either have the choice of travelling by road or ride the famous toy train (A UNESCO World Heritage) into the picturesque hilly regions of this amazing destination.
By Air
Although being a major tourist destination in India, air connectivity to this state is not as robust and reliable as other stations in the country. Jubbarhatti Airport in Kullu, Bhuntar Airport in Shimla and Gaggal Airport in Kangra, connect by flights to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chandigarh. Taxis and cabs provide easy connectivity from these airports to within the state.
Commutation within Himachal Pradesh
Most visitors to Himachal Pradesh make a beeline for Shimla or Dharamsala, and why not; Shimla is a gorgeous city, though a bit crowded and urban, especially during holidays. And Dharamsala is a place of solitude and peace.
However, should you decide to head off the beaten path, there is a lot more that you can enjoy in Himachal. Have you considered destinations like Solan, Kandaghat, Tara Devi, Summer Hill or Dharampur, among several others?
If you are worried about stepping off the usual route, don’t worry. The state of Himachal has an excellent transportation network and you will be able to make your way to any corner that you desire.
Whether you’ve arrived by flight, road or train, you can take off on your onward journey with ease. There are pre-paid taxi counters where you can hire a cab to take you where you wish to go next, or head to the city centre.
There are numerous ways to travel within Himachal depending on your time and budget. There is, of course, local transport such as buses, auto rickshaws and shared taxis. Or if you prefer, you can hire a cab or a bike even. The well-laid road system makes it quite comfortable to travel within the state. Here are a few options that you can consider:
Renting a car
Being in control of your travel takes away half the hassle of the holiday. You can go where you want, when you want. If you haven’t driven down to Himachal but are traveling in a group or with family, you can consider renting a car on a daily basis or booking one for the complete duration of your holiday. Some rental agencies might not allow you to take the car beyond city limits. Don’t forget your license. While a travel agency might turn a blind eye towards the lack of one, the local cops will not. You might need to pay a hefty fine or bribe your way out the situation.
Buses
Local buses are a great way to see the Himachal that you might miss if you just zip through along the main highways. This is also a cost-effective way to travel if you on a tight budget. You can hop aboard a state-run inner-city bus that can take you to the remotest corners. Book tickets online or try your luck at the starting point. Since the buses are regular, you might not have to wait too long. Himachal Road Transport Corporation also offers buses for local sightseeing tours.
Motorcyle
If you are feeling adventurous why not rent an Enfield motorcycle and roam around the state in complete abandon? Bikes can be rented for as low as Rs 350 (5 dollars) a day. Often you aren’t even required to possess a licence. Make sure you are an expert rider as Himachal should not be where you take your first bike lesson!
Is a trip to Himachal Pradesh in the making? Do go through our Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages. We can take care of all your travel needs, including tickets, stay, visa and even forex, if you wish to.
Himachal Pradesh Tourism is absolutely amazing and there are many places to visit in Himachal Pradesh too. Also, check out the best time to visit in Himachal Pradesh.
Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh
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. There are numerous awesome places to visit in Manali that makes your vacation a perfect one!
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
Places To Stay: Hotel Amit, Summer hills Malana, Hotel Trans Shiva, Hotel Ashivan Basera, Royal Mansion
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.
⇥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
Places To Stay: Annadel Veiw, Kavya Homestay, Agro Stone Cottage, Wildflower Hall, Radisson Hotel
Dharamshala – The Residence Of Dalai Lama
Dharamshala definitely has to be on your list of best Himachal Pradesh destinations. 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 in Dharamshala:
⇥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
Places To Stay: Green Hotel, Bob’s n Barley, The Unmad, Hotel Pine Spring, Bella Heights Inn
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 in Kasauli:
⇥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
Places To Stay: Pine Villa, Ramada, Hotel Whispering Winds, The Fern Surya Resort, Birds View Resort
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. It is indeed one of the best tourist places in Himachal Pradesh.
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
Places To Stay: AYOYA Malana – Shiva Cafe, Black Diamond, Waterfall view cafe and cAmps, Summer Hills Camping, Nomads Hostel
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. It is one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh.
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 in Spiti:
⇥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
Places To Stay: Spiti Sojourn, Tethys Himalayan DEN – Chicham, Spiti Village Resort, Hotel Deyzor, Komik House
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 and is the best hill station in Himachal.
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
Places To Stay: The Rainbow Inn & Cafe, The Hosteller Kasol, Nomads Hostel, Gypsy hideouT, The Flipsyde Cafe
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 in Mashobra:
⇥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
Places To Stay: Green Chaklu, Club Mahindra Mashobra, Shanti Jungle Cottage, Mashobra Greens, Shanti jungle cottages
Kinnaur – Apples And Colorful Ethnicity
Known for its apples, Kinnaur is often called the Land of Gods and is among the most offbeat Himachal tourist places 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
Places To Stay: ZostelX Raksham, Eskape Camps, Osiya Shambhu Lodge, Kinner Retreat, Techno Homestay
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 see 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 in Kufri:
⇥Nature trekking and hiking tours
⇥Skiing in the winters
⇥Visiting the Nag Temple
Nearby famous places: Shimla
Places To Stay: Exotic Kufri, Toshali Royal View, Kufri Holiday Resort, Kufri Heights, Kings Hills Cottages
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. It is one of the best unexplored places in Himachal Pradesh.
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 in Chitkul:
⇥Visit the Mathi Temple
⇥Hike to the Charang Chitkul Pass
⇥Sit by the Baspa River
Nearby famous places: Sangla, Solang Valley
Places To Stay: Adobe The Cloud, Vanshika Home Stay, The Wanderers Nest, TBT Stays, The ALAR Camps & Cafe
Shoghi – Impeccable Beauty
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 winter. This small town offers beautiful ancient temples for activities full of adrenaline along with famous fruits. Incredible climate all year round, perfect accommodation and ideal environment makes it one of the best places in Himachal Pradesh to explore.
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
Places To Stay: Larisa Resort Shimla, Radisson Hotel, Snow Valley Resorts, Annadel Veiw, Springfield’s Hotel
Tirthan Valley – Adventurous Expedition
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
Places To Stay: Offbeat Abodes – Tirthan Valley, The Blue Sheep Tirthan, Hotel Veer, Heritage Valley Homestay, Log Huts Bahu
Barot – Unexplored Landscapes
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 the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, 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
Places To Stay: Barot Camps, Karyashaala by ELivingProject, Bir camps, Shweta Guest House, AMY Yoga House
Chamba – Pristine Beauty
Chamba is a small Himalayan town that is known for its pristine beauty and solitude amidst the Himalayas. The town is famous for its temples and the caves that are also a major tourist attraction of this town. Chamba offers splendid views of the Pir Panjal range, Zanskar and Dhauladhar range in the backdrop.
Ideal for: Solo travelers & family
Ideal duration: 1-2 days
Best time to visit: October to June
How to reach: The nearest airport is Jammu. The nearest railway station is at Pathankot, about 120 km from Chamba. Buses and Cabs are very easily available from Pathankot to Chamba. Alternatively, you can take the train till Chandigarh or till New Delhi and then take a bus or a cab.
Things to do in Chamba: Bhuri Singh Museum, Champavati Temple, Sui Mata Temple
Nearby famous places: Dalhousie, Khajjiar
Places To Stay: H2O House, Krish Homestay, Himalayan canvas, Rafi’s House , Shan-e-chamba
Mandi – Varanasi Of Hills
Located at the junction of Kullu and Dharamshala, this place is covered with a thick canopy of pine and deodar trees and is often considered as Varanasi of Hills or Choti Kashi because of myriad temples it has spread across. With over 81 temples, the town is a picturesque spot lying on the banks of the River Beas.
Ideal for: Solo travelers and family
Ideal duration: 1-2 days
Best time to visit: April to October
How to reach: The nearest airport is in Bhuntar and the nearest railway station is in Pathankot. A taxi can be boarded from outside the airport and railway station to reach Mandi.
Things to do in Mandi: Prashar lake, Pandoh Dam, Rewalsar lake, Jalori Pass
Nearby famous places: Dharamshala, Kullu, Manali
Places To Stay: Hotel Valley View, Rj Haveli, Aieyou Home Stay, Prashar Camps Flysports, Hotel Shiva Family Ac Restaurant
Nahan – Lofty Shivalik Range
Nahan is a picturesque town that is a hidden gem of Himachal nestled in the lofty Shivalik range, overlooking lush green fields. Find your perfect escape in this quaint town that is one of the best unexplored places in Himachal Pradesh.
Ideal for: Solo travelers and friends
Ideal duration: 1-2 days
Best time to visit: April to September
How to reach: Nahan at just about 250 kms is one of the nearest hill stations from Delhi. Barara which is 60 km from Nahan is the nearest railway station from Nahan and one can reach Nahan from Delhi in about 5 hours by train. Chandigarh is the nearest airport from Nahan.
Things to do: Rani Tal Lake, Jaitak Fort
Nearby famous places: Shimla
Places To Stay: PleasantVille, Hotel Heritage Sanyam, Hotel HV, Sonaman Retreat, Writers Hill
Bhuntar – National Parks And Religious Sites
Bhuntar is the ideal town if you want to escape the maddening tourist crowds. It is usually a getaway spot from Kullu, Manali and Kasol. People who prefer the lesser known and quaint spots with absolute peace and solitude often come down here to seek some respite. It is encapsulated with lush greenery, national parks and religious sites.
Ideal for: Solo travelers and friends
Ideal duration: 1 day
Best time to visit: May – October
How to reach: The nearest railway station for any major city/town in Himachal Pradesh is the Pathankot, about 144 km away from Bhuntar. All the main trains pass through Pathankot including Jammu Tawi and Himsagar Express from Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, etc.
Things to do: The Great Himalayan National Park, Bijli Mahadev Temple, Dechen Choekhor Buddhist Monastery
Nearby famous places: Dharamshala, McLeodganj
Bilaspur (HP) – India’s First Planned Hill Station
A hill town near Shimla, it is famous for its forts, and Gobind Sagar Lake. Bilaspur is India’s first planned hill station which is famous for its artificially made lake – Gobind Sagar Lake on Sutlej River.
Ideal for: Family and friends
Ideal duration: 1 day
Best time to visit: May – October
How to reach: The nearest major railway station connected to the major cities of the country is in Kiratpur Sahib which is 65 km away from Bilaspur. You can take a taxi from there to this city.
Things to do: Kanan Pendari Zoological Garden, A.S Fun Water Park, Wonder World Theme Park
Nearby famous places: Shimla
Places To Stay: Hotel Bilaspur Sagar View, Dh
Parwanoo – Captivating Ambience Of Hill Station
One of the best offbeat places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, Parwanoo is a beautiful small town. It is an ideal holiday destination for trekking and hiking. What is special about this place is that it offers beautiful apple orchards and delicious fruit products.
Ideal for: Solo travelers, friends
Ideal duration: 1 day
Best time to visit: March to May and October to November
How to reach: Regular buses and trains from other major cities ply to Parwanoo.
Things to do in Parwanoo: Timber Trail, Cable car ride, fruit orchards
Nearby famous places: Shimla, Kasauli, Chandigarh
Places To Stay: Hotel Virsa Kalka, Hotel Virsa, Oscar Banquet and Hotel, Lotus Grand Akm, Kasauli Nature Inn
People and culture
Around 96% of the population of the state is of Hindus. The major communities includes Brahmins, Rajputs, Choudharies, Kannets, Rathis and Kolis. The tribal population comprises the Gaddis, Kinnars, Jadun, Tanolis. Gujjars, Pangawals and Lahaulis. From the alpine pasture regions to the lower regions during the cold winter season are mainly Hindus. The Kinnars are the inhabitants of Kinnaur and they generally practice polyandry and polygamy. The Gujjars are nomadic people who rear buffalo herds and are mainly Muslim. The Lahaulis of Lahaul and Spiti and native of spiti, Kinnaur region mainly comprises Buddhists. A percentage of people are also Tibetans. Muslim, Christian and Sikhs are in minority but they also enjoy the same rights as Hindus. Around 40% of the population of the state like to wear. is one of the symbol of Himachal. [Himachali Topi] recognize that we are Himachali. Though Hindi is the state language, many people speak the various Western Pahari languages. A majority of the population is engaged in agricultural practices, however the more educated of them are now moving towards tertiary sectors. As per the traditional dressing norms the dress of the Brahmin male includes dhoti, kurta, coat, waistcoat, turban and a hand towel while that of the Rajput male consists of tight fitting churidar pyjamas, a long coat and a starched turban. With the changing time the dress up of the people has now become a mixed one. Though the above-mentioned style is now hardly followed, people have started wearing western style of clothes.
The typical house is constructed of clay bricks and the roofs are of slate. In some areas the slate roof is also replaced by timber.
Arts and crafts
Further information: Arts and crafts of Himachal Pradesh
The handicraft that comes out of this state are the carpets, leather works, shawls, paintings, metalware, woodwork and paintings. Pashmina shawl is the prity product which is highly in demand not only in Himachal but all over the country. Colourful Himachali caps are also famous art work of the people. A tribe namely Dom is expert in manufacturing bamboo items like boxes, sofas, chairs, baskets and rack. Metalware of the state include utensils, ritualistic vessels, idols, gold and silver jewelleries.
Weaving, carving, painting, or chiselling is considered to be the part of the life of Himachalis. Himachal is well known for designing shawls especially in Kullu. The architecture, objects, shops, museums, galleries and craftsmen charm with the variety perfected through time.
Women take an active part in pottery and men in carpentry. For ages, wood is used in Himachal in the construction of temples, homes, idols etc.
Music and dance
Further information: Music of Himachal Pradesh
Further information: Traditional dances of Himachal Pradesh
Music and dance of Himachal Pradesh reflects its cultural identity. Through their dance and music, they entreat their gods during local festivals and other special occasions. There are also dances that are specific to certain regions of the state.
Some of the dance forms of Himachal are Losar Shona Chuksam(Kinnaur), Dangi (Chamba), Gee Dance and Burah dance, (Sirmour), Naati, Kharait, Ujagjama and Chadhgebrikar (Kullu) and Shunto (Lahaul & Spiti).
People of the state generally prefer folk music. There is no classical form of music, as for the Himachal Pradesh is concerned. Himachali dance forms are highly varied and quite complicated. These dances are very vital part of the tribal life. It reflects the culture and the tradition of Himachal Pradesh. Hardly any festivity here is celebrated without dancing. Some of the dance forms like Dulshol, Dharveshi, Drodi, Dev Naritya, Rakshas Nritya, Dangi, Lasa, Nati and Nagas are danced all over the region.
Fairs and festivals
Kullu Dussehra
Apart from the fairs and festivals that are celebrated all over India, there are number of other fairs and festivals also that are at the high point of Himachal Pradesh. These festivals are the time for the Himachalis to adorn colourful dress and accessories and get mixed up with the rest of their kins. Some of these fairs and festivals in the upper regions are the Kullu Dussehra, Shivratri Fair (Mandi), Shoolini Mela (Solan), Minjar Fair (Chamba), Mani Mahesh Chhari Yatra (Chamba), Renuka fair (Sirmaur), Lavi Trade Fair (Rampur), Vrajeshwari fair (Kangra), Jwalamukhi Fair (Jwalamukhi), Holi Fair (Sujanpur Tira), and Naina Devi Fair (Bilaspur), Fulaich {Kinnaur valley}. In the lower regions of Himachal are temple Fairs in Una District such as the Peeplo Fair, the bharoli bhagaur Fair, the 'Mairi' Guruduwara Fair, the 'Chintpurni' temple Fair, the 'Kamakhya temple' Fair, including the annual Himachal Hill Festival in the village Polian Purohitan during the fourth week of October. The centuries-old Sair festival is celebrated mainly in Shimla, Kangra, Mandi, Kullu and Solan districts every year in mid-September. It is celebrated to mark the end of the crop harvest and also the rakhi thread are removed and offered to the mother sairi.
Cuisine
Pachole
The day-to-day food of Himachalis is very similar to that of the rest of north India. They too have lentil, broth, rice, vegetables and bread. As compared to other states in north India non-vegetarian cuisine is preferred. Traditionally, Himachali cuisine is dominated by red meat and wheat bread. Thick and rich gravy, with aromatic spices, is used in abundance as the base of many dishes. Dham is the traditional food served in marriages or other functions. Siddu, Patrode, Cheele and Babru are the authentic snack dishes of the state. Now, steamed momos (dumplings) and noodles are also readily available and popular with travellers who want to graduate to Indian food slowly. Some of the specialities of Himachal include Manee, Mandra or "Madra", "Palda", "Redu" Patrode, Chouck, Bhagjery and chutney of til(sesame seeds).
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