11 INCREDIBLE PLACES TO VISIT IN HIMACHAL PRADESH & A GUIDE TO HIMACHAL TOURISM
Boasting beautiful mountain towns, traditional hill stations, honeymoon worthy resorts and a plethora of outdoor adventures, Himachal Pradesh has something for everyone.
KANGRA
Kangra (formerly Nagarkot) is one of the most picturesque valleys of the lower Himalayas and is an area famous for arts and crafts. Guesthouses in the Kangra Valley provide breathtaking views of the mountains and many provide extra facilities like Ayurveda massages, fitness centers, horse riding and swimming pools.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN KANGRA
Brajeshwari Temple
Kangra Fort (pictured above)
Kareri Lak
Baijnath Temple
Kangra Art Museum
Jwala Devi Temple
Chamunda Devi Temple
Pragpur Village
SANGLA
One of the most charming valleys in the whole Kinnaur District, Sangla Valley is a perfect getaway from the hustle bustle of the swarming cities. The Sangla (Baspa) Valley starts at Karcham and ends at Chitkul. Sangla is the major town in the valley with a petrol pump, Bank ATMs, Post Office, Restaurants, Bar, mid range hotels and shops.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN SANGLA
Kamru Fort
Bering Nag Temple
Sangla Meadow
the Buddhist Monastery
Batseri Village
Chitkul Village (right on the Indo-Tibetan border)
the Tibetan Wood Carving Center
SHIMLA
The capital and largest city in Himachal Pradesh, Shimla (Simla) and is a one of the most famous hill stations, rich in colonial history. Declared by the British as the тАШSummer Capital of IndiaтАЩ this townтАЩs captivating natural beauty, and the atmosphere are bound to leave any tourist overwhelmed. Accomodation available throughout the city is of a high standard and if youтАЩre looking for a place to stay, check out these hotels in Shimla.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN SHIMLA
Mall Road
The Ridge
Institute of Advanced Studies (pictured above)
Jakhoo Temple
Christ Church (second oldest church in North India)
Toy Train to Kalka
KALKA
Kalka makes for a great outing from Shimla and is the terminus for the Shimla-Kalka toy train. The train route is one of the most picturesque in the world and passes through more than a hundred tunnels.
DALHOUSIE
Dalhousie is one of the most popular hill stations in Himachal Pradesh and is built on and around five hills: Kathalagh, Potreyn, Terah, Bakrota and Bhangora. Bordered by snow capped peaks, and punctuated by lakes and waterfalls, it is known as the Little Switzerland of India. With over 600 hotels in the area (creating temporary jobs for upwards of 5,000 people each year), there are variety of accommodation options to suit every budget.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN DALHOUSIE:
Panch Pulla (waterfalls/picnic spots and a moderate trek)
Chamara Lake
Satdhara Falls
Khajjiar (below) and where river rafting, rock climbing and trekking are available
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary (Leopard, bear, deer, langur, jackal, Himalayan Black Marten, Barking Goral and countless beautiful birds can be spotted here)
St John Church (oldest Church in the town)
Subhash Baoli (a perennial spring which has medicinal properties and believed to have cured the freedom fighter, Subhash Chandra Bose, of his ill health)
Daikund Peak
Gandhi Chowk Shopping Plaza
Bakrota Hills
Chamba
KHAJJIAR
Just a short drive from Dalhousie is the village of Khajjiar, which is thought of as a тАШMini SwitzerlandтАЩ тАУ and offers a unique combination of forests, lakes and pastures. With only a few accommodation options, however, it may be worth staying in Dalhousie and making the short journey to Khajjiar for your outdoor activity fix.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN KHAJJIAR
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
Khajjiar Lake
Khajjiar Trek
Horse-riding
Paragliding
Zorbing
Golden Devi Temple
Lord Shiva Statue
Tibetan Handicrafts Centre
MANDI
Located on the banks of River Beas, Mandi displays some old palaces and exquisite examples of colonial architecture. With a blend of warm and cold weather, the city housing the lakes and gardens provide a breath of fresh air for its visitors, and it the commercial gateway town to Kullu and Manali.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN MANDI
Pandoh Dam
Rewalsar Lake
Parashar Lake
Janjehli (A treat for adventure buffs, Janjehli is an ideal place for activities like trekking. With a trail up to 3300 m, however, this place is almost 67 km from Mandi)
Sunder Nagar (a town known for itтАЩs natural beauty);
Kamlah Fort
Shikhari Devi Temple (at 3332m)
Tattapani (natural hot springs)
KULLU
Kullu is a nature loverтАЩs paradise. Abundant with lush greenery, pristine river streams and a wonderful climate, Kullu is known as one of the most popular tourist spots in Himachal Pradesh. Typically travelers combine visits to Mandi and Kullu in one trip, and is a true outdoor adventure lovers paradise.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN KULLU
Raghunath Temple
The Great Himalayan National Park;
Rafting
Fishing
Trekking
Hanogi Mata Temple
Friendship Peak
MANALI
At an incredible height of 6260 feet above sea level, Manali is one of the most popular, beautiful and awe-inspiring hill stations in India. ItтАЩs natural beauty has ensured it has become one of the most visited hill stations and is a favorite destination for couples and honeymooners.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN MANALI
Solang Valley
Rhotang Pass (covered in snow all year round)
Hadimba Temple
White Water Rafting
Trekking
Horse Riding
Zorbing
Vashisht Baths (temple with natural hot springs)
Chandrakhani Pass
Gayatari Temple
KAZA
Kaza is divided in to two parts: old and new Kaza, each accommodating government offices and kingтАЩs palace respectively. Monasteries, Gompas and other historic wonders add charm to this already magical city which is today a a wonderful blend of modernity and unique ancient culture that will leave you enchanted.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN KAZA
Ki Monastery
Dhankar Monasteries
Kibber Village
Komic Village
Kumzm Pass
Chandratal Lake
Dhankar Lake
Pin Valley National Park
Shop for pure wool shawls, carpets and woolen clothes
DHARAMSALA
The second winter capital of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh and is is famed as the holy residence of the Dalai Lama along with the headquarters of the Central Tibetan Administration (the Tibetan government in exile).
TOP THINGS TO DO IN DHARAMSALA
Dharamsala Cricket Ground
St John in the Wilderness Church
War Memorial
Gyuoto Monastery
Tea Gardens
Tsuglagkhang, Mcleodganj (where the Dalai Lama resides)
Bhagsu Falls
Tibetan Museum
Kangra Art Museum
Source: https://maketimetoseetheworld.com/himachal-tourism-incredible-places-to-visit-in-himachal-pradesh/