Top 15 Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh

If you like anything and everything about snow, you may be inspired by the meaning of the word Himachal. ‘The land of snows’, the meaning, is adequate to give you an idea of what to expect here. Himachal Pradesh is located in the western Himalayas. Surrounded by majestic mountains, out of which some still challenge mankind to conquer them, the beauty of the land is beyond imagination. Shimla, one of the most captivating hill stations, is the capital of the state. Given below are the top 15 places to visit in Himachal Pradesh.

1. Kullu

Visitor Information

• Famous for: Great Himalayan Ranges, Nature, Hill station, Temples.
• Major Attractions: Bijli Mahadev Temple, Raghunath Temple.
• Nearby Places: Manali, Kasol, Manikaran.
• Ideal Visit Time: 1- 2 days.

About Kullu

Kullu in Himachal Pradesh is one of the most frequented tourist destinations. Often heard along with the name Manali, yet another famous tourist spot, Kullu is situated on the banks of Beas River. It was earlier called as Kulanthpitha, meaning ‘The end of the habitable world’. Awe-inspiring, right? Kullu valley is also known as the ‘Valley of Gods’.

How to Reach

• Air:

The nearest airport is Kullu–Manali Airport but it has limited accessibility and its operations are irregular. Chandigarh is the next nearest airport with better connectivity. It takes about 6 hr 48 min (269.3 km) from here to Kullu via road.

• Rail:

The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar (JDNX) located 95 kms away and is a narrow broad gauge. Therefore it is not accessible from all major cities. Chandigarh Junction railway station (CDG) is the nearest major railway station with good connectivity from all the major northern cities. From here bus or private cabs can be taken to Kullu 269.3 km away.

• Road:

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular buses to and from Kullu to other cities in HP. Buses are also available from Delhi, Pathankot, Chandigarh. Jammu- Delhi highway, NH 154, NH205 connects Kullu.

Places to Visit

• Basheshwar Mahadev Temple.
• Sultanpur Palace.
• Parvati Valley.
• Great Himalayan National Park.
• Kasol.
• Bijli Mahadev Temple.
• Manikaran.
• Bhrigu Lake.

The attractions in Kullu are more. Trekking, mountaineering, angling, skiing, white water rafting and para gliding are some of the adventurous sports available here.

2. Manali

Visitor Information

• Famous for: Great Himalayan Ranges, Nature, Hill station, Adventure sports.
• Major Attractions: Hidimba Devi Temple, Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley.
• Nearby Places: Kullu, Lahaul and Spiti Valley.
• Ideal Visit Time: 2 days.

About Manali

Located at an altitude of 6726 feet, Manali offers splendid views of the snow-capped mountains. The land is not just a feast to your visual senses; it also offers you the chance to ascertain your fitness level with the sporting facilities here. Given below are some top destinations in Manali for you to enjoy and bring out the adventurer in you.

How to Reach

• Air:

The nearest airport is Kullu–Manali Airport but it has limited accessibility and its operations are irregular. Chandigarh is the next nearest airport with better connectivity. It takes about 7 hr 40 min (308.6 km) from here to Manali via road.

• Rail:

The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar (JDNX) located 95 kms away and is a narrow broad gauge. Therefore it is not accessible from all major cities. Chandigarh Junction railway station (CDG) is the nearest major railway station with good connectivity from all the major northern cities. From here bus or private cabs can be taken to Manali 308.6 km away.

• Road:

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular buses to and from Manali to other cities in HP. Buses are also available from Delhi, Pathankot, Chandigarh. Jammu- Delhi highway, NH 154, NH205 connects Manali.

Places to Visit

• Rohtang Pass.
• Solang valley.
• Hadimba Devi Temple.
• Vashist Hot Water Springs.
• Tibetan Monasteries.
• Beas River.
• Gulaba.
• Kothi.
• Manu Temple.

3. Shimla

Visitor Information

• Famous for: Hill station, Viewpoints, British colonial architecture.
• Major Attractions: The Ridge, Mall Road, Jakhoo Hill.
• Nearby Places: Kasauli, Parwanoo, Chail, Kufri.
• Ideal Visit Time: 2 days.

About Shimla

The enchanting beauty of Shimla made British declare the land as their summer capital. The colonial influence is still evident in the city. The hill station offers spectacular views of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges. With lakes and rich greenery around, Shimla welcomes tourists round the year, of course, if you don’t mind the ‘below zero’ temperature in winter. Here are the leading destinations in Simla.

How to Reach

• Air:

Jubbarhatti, which is about 23 kilometres from the town, is the nearest airport which has good connectivity from Delhi. Chandigarh airport which is about 3 hr 41 min (113.0 km) away is the nearest major airport which has connectivity to all major cities.

• Rail:

Shimla Railway Station (SML) is 1 km away from the town centre and is connects to Chandigarh, Delhi and Ambala Cantt. It lies on the famous Kalka-Shimla Railway line and is a narrow gauge. An auto can be taken from here to reach the town.

• Road:

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular buses connecting Shimla to other cities in HP. Buses are also available from nearby cities of bordering states like Delhi, Pathankot, Chandigarh etc. NH5 and Jammu – Delhi Rd connects Shimla.

Places to Visit

• The Ridge.
• Jakhoo Hill.
• Mall Road.
• Kalka–Shimla Railway.
• Christ Church.
• Indian Institute Of Advanced Study.
• Summer Hill.
• Kufri.
• Annandale.
• The Shimla State Museum.
• Chail.
• Solan.
• Daranghati Sanctuary.
• Naldehra And Shaily Peak.
• Arki Fort.

4. Chamba

Visitor Information

• Famous for: Art, Temples, Nature.
• Major Attractions: Banni Mata and Lakshmi Narayan temples.
• Nearby Places: Dalhousie, Khajjiar.
• Ideal Visit Time: Less than a day.

About Chamba

The spectacular beauty of Chamba has made this place dear to nature lovers. Located on the banks of River Ravi and at an altitude of over 900 meters above sea level, Chamba makes an excellent holiday retreat. It is also an important pilgrimage and historical destination with many important temples and forts.

How to Reach

• Air:

The nearest airport is Pathankot Airport which is about 3 hr 38 min (123.4 km) and is well connected to Chandigarh and Delhi. Visitors can take a prepaid taxi or bus from here to Chamba.

• Rail:

Pathankot Junction railway station (PTK) is the nearest railway station and is well connected to all major cities in North India. A bus or pre paid taxi can be taken from here to Chamba 3 hr 38 min (128 km) away.

• Road:

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular buses to and from Chamba to other cities in HP. Buses are also available from nearby cities of bordering states like Delhi, Pathankot, Chandigarh, Ambala etc. NH9, NH44 and Chamba – Pathankot Rd connects Chamba.

Places to Visit

• Akhand Chandi Palace.
• Champavati Temple.
• Lakshmi Narayan Temples.
• Chamunda Devi Temple.
• Bhuri Singh Museum.

5. Dharamshala

Visitor Information

• Famous for: Tibetan culture, Monasteries, Nature.
• Major Attractions: Tsuglagkhang Complex, Namgyal Monastery.
• Nearby Places: Mcleodganj, Kangra.
• Ideal Visit Time: 1 day.

About Dharamshala

Dharamshala has snow-clad mountains on three sides and valley on one side. The mountains being over 4000 m height, you can have an excellent view of them from every viewpoint. Pine trees and tree gardens along with snow covered mountains render magic to the air. It is also heavily occupied Tibetans refugees who have left an imprint of their culture here. It is visited by tourists from all over the world to get a glimpse of Tibet and support the refugees.

How to Reach

• Air:

Dharamsala airport (DHM) is located 13kms from the city and has good connectivity from all major metro cities. A cab or bus can be availed from here to the city.

• Rail:

The nearest major railway station is at Pathankot Junction railway station (PTK), 85 kilometres away and is connected to all major cities. A pre paid taxi can be availed from here to Dharamshala.

• Road:

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular buses connecting Dharamshala to other cities in HP. Buses are also available from nearby cities of bordering states like Delhi, Pathankot, Chandigarh, Ambala etc. NH 503 and Jammu – Delhi Rd connects Dhramshala.

Places to Visit

• Tsuglagkhang Complex.
• Namgyal Monastery.
• Masrur.
• Attractions in Mcleodganj
• Kareri Lake.
• Gyuto Monastery.
• Kangra Museum.
• Kangra Fort.
• Dal Lake in Dharamshala.
• Naddi Village.

6. Dalhousie

Visitor Information

• Famous for: Hill station, Meadows, Valleys.
• Major Attractions: Kalatop Wildlife Reserve, Dainkund Peak.
• Nearby Places: Pathankot, Khajjiar.
• Ideal Visit Time: 1 day.

About Dalhousie

Retaining not only the colonial looks but also the name, Dalhousie, was named after Lord Dalhousie, who was the British governor in the 19th century. This hill station is spread across five hills. The varying altitudes of the land have a wide range of vegetation including pine, oak and deodar.

How to Reach

• Air:

Pathankot has the nearest airport, 75 kilometres away and visitors can take a cab from here to Dalhousie.

• Rail:

The nearest major railway station is at Pathankot Junction railway station (PTK), 75 kilometres away and is connected to all major cities. Avail a taxi from here to Dalhousie.

• Road:

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular buses from Dalhousie to other cities in HP. Buses are also available from Delhi, Pathankot, Chandigarh etc. Bela – Behrampur Road, NH 44 and NH 503 connects Dalhousie.

Places to Visit

• Khajjiar.
• Kalatop Wildlife Reserve.
• Dainkund Peak.
• Ganji Pahari.
• St. Francis Church.
• Panchpula.
• Chamera Lake.
• Garam Sadak.
• Subhash Baoli.
• Sach Pass.

7. Kangra

Visitor Information

• Famous for: History, Temples, Fort ruins
• Major Attractions: Kangra Fort, Brajeshwari Temple.
• Nearby Places: Dharamshala, Mcleodganj.
• Ideal Visit Time: Less than 6 hours.

How to Reach

• Air:

The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport (DHM) in Dharamsala 14 km away. Visitors can take a cab from here to reach Kangra Valley.

• Rail:

Amb Andaura (AADR) in Una is the nearest railway station and the only broad gauge in HP. The nearest biggest railway station would be Pathankot Junction railway station (PTK), 2 hr 24 min (86.4 km) away and can be reached via cab.

• Road:

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular buses to and from Kangra to other cities in HP. Buses are also available from Delhi, Pathankot, Chandigarh. NH 154, NH44 and NH 503 connects Kangra.

Places to Visit

• Kangra Fort.
• Nadaun.
• MaharanaPratap Sagar Lake.
• Taragarh Palace.
• Gopalpur Nature Park.
• Nurpur.
• Nadaun.
• Indrahar Pass.
• Tatwani Hot Spring.
• Kareri Lake.

8. Kasauli

Visitor Information

• Famous for: Hill Station, Viewpoints, British colonial period.
• Major Attractions: Kasauli Brewery, Sunset Point.
• Nearby Places: Solan, Chail, Shimla.
• Ideal Visit Time: less than 6 hours.

About Kasauli

Kasauli is situated at an altitude of 1927 meters and like a few other places in Himachal Pradesh, reflects the influence of colonial rule. The views from here are spectacular and this is also a well known health resort. An laid back vacation is best enjoyed amidst the scenic views this place has to offer. It is recommended to stay here for a day to explore the place properly.

How to Reach

• Air:

Chandigarh Airport (IXC) is the nearest airport with better connectivity. It takes about 1 hr 51 min (58.1 km) from here to reach Kasauli via road.

• Rail:

The nearest station is in Sonwara (SWO), 6 kms away from Kasauli. Kalka railway station, 40 kms away is the next best option for tourists as it connects other important sites via Kalka-Shimla railway line.

• Road:

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular buses to and from Kasauli to other cities in HP. Buses are also available from Delhi, Pathankot, Chandigarh. Jammu – Delhi Rd and NH 709 connects Kasauli.

Places to Visit

• Kasauli Brewery.
• Christ Church.
• Sunset Point.
• The Mall.
• Manki Point.
• Krishna Bhavan Mandir.
• Gilbert Nature Trail.
• Shri Baba Balak Nath Temple.
• Barog.
• Gurkha Fort.

9. Hamirpur

Visitor Information

• Famous for: Trekking, Unexplored, Baba Balak Nath.
• Major Attraction: Deotsidh Temple.
• Nearby Places: Mandi, Bir.
• Ideal Visit Time: less than six hours.

About Hamirpur

Being in the lower elevation, Hamirpur is warmer. The altitudes vary from near flat lands to higher levels of land that reach up to the heights of cliffs. The hilly ranges here offer great scope for trekking. The land is said to be the most literate district in the state of Himachal Pradesh.

How to Reach

• Air:

The nearest airport is Kangra Airport (DHM), 93.7 km away. It will take approximately 2 hr 33 min (93.7 km) from here to Hamirpur via cab.

• Rail:

Kiratpur Sahib Railway Station (KART) is the nearest station 3 hours (114.2 km) away. Major trains pass this station en route while going to Shimla, Chandigarh etc. A cab can be hailed from here to reach Hamirpur.

• Road:

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular buses to and from Hamirpur to other cities in HP. Buses are also available from nearby cities like Pathankot, Chandigarh etc. Shimla-Kangra Rd, NH 205 and NH 103 connects Hamirpur.

Places to Visit

• Deotsidh Temple.
• Sujanpur Tihra.
• Awah Devi Temple.
• Bilkeshwar Temple.

10. Parwanoo

Visitor Information

• Famous for: Ropeway, Orchards, Viewpoints.
• Major Attraction: Timber Trail, Fruit Orchards.
• Nearby Places: Shimla, Solan, Kasauli.
• Ideal Visit Time: Half to 1 day.

About Parwanoo

Parwanoo, surrounded by hills is yet another beautiful hill station in the land. The town, surrounded by lush greenery, lies near the border of Haryana and hence, it is a convenient location from where you could visit many tourist attractions nearby.

How to Reach

• Air:

Chandigarh is the nearest airport with connectivity from all major cities. It takes about 55 min from here to Parwanoo via road.

• Rail:

Chandigarh is the nearest railway station and is well connected with all major cities in India. A cab can be hailed from here to reach Hamirpur in about 1 hour.

• Road:

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular buses from Parwanoo to other cities in HP. Buses are also available from Delhi, Pathankot, Chandigarh. Jammu – Delhi Road, NH 709, NH 5 and Kalka – Shimla Rd connects Parwanoo.

Places to Visit

• Kalka.
• Pinjore.
• Mughal Gardens.
• Fruit Orchards.
• Gurudwara Nada Sahib.
• Cactus Garden.
• Timber Trail.

11. Solan

Visitor Information

• Famous for: Culture, Cuisine, Heritage.
• Major Attraction: Shoolini devi temple, Dolanji Bon Monastery.
• Nearby Places: Shimla, Kasauli, Barog.
• Ideal Visit Time: 1 day.

About Solan

Solan, famously called ‘The mushroom city of India’ and ‘City of Red Gold’ due to its abundant mushroom and tomato production is a beautiful city located amidst scenic snow-clad mountains and forests. It is famous for many things — from its cuisines to its scenery, Solan is a must visit place in Himachal Pradesh. It is a great place for trekking and it is heaven for those who love to feel oneness with nature.

How to Reach

• Air:

Chandigarh is the nearest airport with good connectivity. It takes about 2 hr 14 min (66.8 km) from here to Solan via road.

• Rail:

Solan Railway station (SOL) lies on the Kalka Shimla Railway line. It lies on a narrow broad gauge and therefore is not accessible from all the major cities in India. Shimla Railway Station (SML) is the nearest station and visitors can catch a toy train from here to Solan. They can also hail prepaid cabs or buses from Shimla to Solan, 1 hr 40 min (46.1 km) away.

• Road:

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular buses to and from Solan to other cities in HP. Buses are also available from Delhi, Pathankot, Chandigarh. NH5 and Jammu – Delhi Rd connects Solan.

Places to Visit

• Mohan Shakti National Park.
• Karol Tibba.
• The Mall Road.
• Shoolini Mata Temple.
• Motilal Nehru Central State Library.

12. Pragpur

Visitor Information

• Famous for: Temples, Shopping, Heritage.
• Major Attraction: Jwalamukhi Temple.
• Nearby Places: Kangra, Dharamshala.
• Ideal Visit Time: 1 day.

About Pragpur

At an altitude of 2000 feet, Pragpur, the first heritage village in India, offers spectacular views of Kangra Valley. Everything about Pragpur is interesting; natural beauty, rich culture, historical importance, friendly climate, beautiful greenery, easy access and anything you would consider when you travel to a place.

How to Reach

• Air:

The nearest airport is in Dharamshala (DHM) and it has good connectivity. It takes about 1 hr 51 min (64.2 km) from here to Pragpur via road.

• Rail:

Amb Andaura (AADR) in Una is the nearest railway station and the only broad gauge in HP. The nearest biggest railway station would be Pathankot Junction railway station (PTK), 3 hr (132.4 km) away and can be reached via cab.

• Road:

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular buses to and from Pragpur to other cities in HP. Buses are also available from Delhi, Pathankot, Chandigarh. NH 44, NH 154 and NH 3 connects Pragpur.

Places to Visit

• Chamba Pattan.
• The Taal.
• The Judge’s Court.
• Jwalamukhi Temple.

Apart from visits to these places, you can indulge yourself in trekking, bird watching and fishing.

13. Sirmaur

Visitor Information

• Famous for: Temples, Shopping, Heritage.
• Major Attraction: Jwalaji Mata, Chintpurni.
• Nearby Places: Kangra, Dharamshala.
• Ideal Visit Time: 1 day.

About Sirmaur

Sirmaur is located on the south-eastern part of the state. The district is famous for its peach, which is from Rajgarh region, famously called the Peach Bowl. Fossils aging 85 million years have been found here.

How to Reach

• Air:

Chandigarh is the nearest airport with good connectivity with all major cities in India. It takes about 3 hr (122 km) from here to Sirmaur via road.

• Rail:

Chandigarh Junction railway station (CDG) is the nearest major railway station with good connectivity from all the major northern cities. From here bus or private cabs can be taken to Sirmaur 3 hours away via road.

• Road:

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular buses to and from Sirmaur to other cities in HP. Buses are also available from Delhi, Pathankot, Chandigarh. Ambala Chandigarh Expy and NH 7 connects Sirmaur.

Places to Visit

• Shivalik Fossil Park.
• Churdhar Peak.
• Renukaji.
• Haripur.
• Habban Valley.

14. Chail

Visitor Information

• Famous for: Hill station, Cricket, Viewpoints.
• Major Attraction: Cricket Ground.
• Nearby Places: Shimla, Summer Hill, Solan, Kasauli.
• Ideal Visit Time: 1 day.

About Chail

Chail is a famous hill station in Himachal Pradesh that is known for many things. It was founded in the year 1891 by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala. The pleasant atmosphere in Summers and the scenic views of Shimla, Solan and Kasauli can also be seen from here. It is also the place where the highest cricket ground is located and is visited by many cricket enthusiasts from all over the world.

How to Reach

• Air:

Chandigarh is the nearest airport with good connectivity from all major cities in India. It takes about 3 hr 30 min (106.4 km) from here to Chail by road.

• Rail:

Kandaghat station (SOL) lies on the Kalka Shimla Railway line and is 25kms away from Chail. It lies on a narrow broad gauge and therefore is not accessible from all the major Indian cities. Shimla Railway Station (SML) is the nearest biggest station and visitors can catch a toy train from here to Kandaghat. They can also hail prepaid cabs or buses from Shimla to Chail, 1 hr 52 min (55 km).

• Road:

Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) operates regular buses to and from Chail to other cities in HP. Buses are also available from nearby cities from other states. Chail is connected via NH5 and Kandaghat-Chail-Kufri Road.

Places to Visit

• Cricket Ground.
• Maa Kali Temple.
• Chail Palace Hotel.
• Sidh Baba Ka Mandir.
• Chail Wildlife Sanctuary.

15. Una

Visitor Information

• Famous for: Lakes, Temples.
• Major Attraction: Chintpurni Temple.
• Nearby Places: Kangra, Pragpur.
• Ideal Visit Time: 1 day.

About Una

At an elevation of 1210 feet, the hottest district in the state, Una, is referred to as the Gateway to Himalayas. The land seems an exception in Himachal Pradesh, where most of the cities are in the hilly region. If you intend to visit the place in summer, you need to have cotton clothes to make your stay comfortable.

How to Reach

• Air:

The nearest airport is in Dharamshala (DHM) and it has good connectivity. It takes about 3hr (123.6 km) from Dharamshala to Una via road.

• Rail:

Amb Andaura (AADR) in Una is the nearest railway station and the only broad gauge in HP. The nearest biggest railway station would be Chandigarh Junction railway station (CDG), 2 h 23 min (123.0 km) away and can be reached via cab.

• Road:

Himachal State Tourism Board operates regular buses to and from Una to other cities in HP. Buses are also available from Delhi, Pathankot, Chandigarh and other nearby cities from other states. NH 503 and NH 205 connects Chail.

Places to Visit

• Pong Dam.
• Chintpurni Temple.
• Thaneek Pura.
• Kaleshwar.
• Kila Baba Bedi Ji.

Those who have visited Himachal Pradesh would agree with me if I were to say that words can do no justice to the exquisite beauty of the land. I have tried to give information on the tourist destinations as I am sure any attempt to describe the beauty of the land is equal to scaling even a small mountain without adequate training and experience. Do write to include the destinations I have missed to include.