Blessed with the lofty mountains, serene valleys, and the ethereal beauty of nature, Himachal Pradesh is one of the most popular tourist destinations in North India. Situated in the lap of the western Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh is home to various Himalayan rivers, namely the Ravi River, Beas River, Chenab River, and Satluj River, which have their origin from the glaciers. Tourist attractions in Himachal Pradesh have the matchless charm that innumerable tourists want to experience throughout the year. Moreover, Himachal is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts as it is home to many architectural marvels and natural wonders. There is no shortage of tourist attractions in Himachal, including high-altitude peaks, alpine meadows, tranquil lakes, gurgling waterfalls, and rocky terrains that are a visual treat for travelers.
Snow-covered peaks welcome the tourists to this majestic land with just about everything to offer to the visitors. The major tourist attractions of Himachal Pradesh include hill stations, pilgrimage sites, stunning lakes, Tibetan monasteries, ancient temples, and many more. In addition, it is an abode of some remote villages, mesmerizing valleys, popular hill stations, unexplored national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries. The main tourist places in Himachal Pradesh are almost never-ending, including Shimla, Manali, Kasauli, Kullu, Kasol, Dalhousie, Khajjiar, Chamba, Dharamshala, Mcleodganj, Kinnaur, Spiti, and much more. Himachal Pradesh is a haven for travelers, trekkers, and pilgrims.
The best tourist places in Himachal Pradesh include some of the most revered pilgrimage sites such as Jwala Ji Temple, Chamunda Devi Temple, Baijnath Temple, Manikaran Sahib, Shoolini Mata Temple, Parashar Lake, Vashisht Temple, Bijli Mahadev, Naina Devi Temple, Tabo Monastery, Dhankar Monastery, and the list goes and on. This state holds particular importance for the devotees of all religions. In addition, Himachal Pradesh is a dreamland for adventure enthusiasts as it provides an opportunity for numerous high altitude and low-altitude treks.
The culture of Himachal Pradesh tourism also forms one of the main tourist attractions among foreigners and domestic tourists. The Himachal tourist places are so pristine and picturesque that the journey to these places offers unique experiences and memories of a lifetime.
Scroll down and get to know more about precisely about the Himachal Pradesh tourist attractions.
Some of the Best Tourist Attraction in Himachal Pradesh
Rohtang La
Nestled at a staggering height of 3,978 m above sea level, Rohtang La is also known as Rohtang Pass. This high-altitude mountain pass connects Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys. Situated on the Pir Panjal mountain ranges, Rohtang Pass is among the top tourist places in Himachal Pradesh, owing to its breathtaking landscape. The mountain pass is covered with snow throughout the year and offers the perfect opportunity to indulge in snow activities. In addition, Rohtang Pass offers an enchanting view of the majestic glaciers, twin peaks of Geypan, the Lahaul Valley, and Chandra River.
Best time to visit: June to October
Things to do: Trekking, skiing, sledding, snow scooter ride, and snowboarding
How to reach: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, and the nearest major railhead is Chandigarh Railway Station. The government-run buses and private buses are easily available from Bhuntar and Chandigarh. Manali is the nearest major hill town from where private taxis are available.
Spiti Valley
Popularly known for its jaw-dropping landscape and ancient monasteries, Spiti Valley is a cold mountainous desert located in the northeastern part of the country. Nestled high in the mountains, Spiti Valley boasts a jagged landscape that Ladakh borders on the northern side, Tibet on the eastern side, Kinnaur in the southeast, and Kullu Valley in the north. It is dotted with pristine Buddhist Monasteries, glacier lakes, and an impressive national park, home to some exotic wildlife species. The awe-striking beauty of the valley can leave anyone captivated.
Best time to visit: June to October
Things to do: Trekking, hiking, camping, wildlife exploration, and nature walk.
How to reach: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport, and the nearest major railhead is Shimla Railway Station, which is well-connected with the capital of the valley, namely Kaza. There is a limited service of government-run buses from Kullu, Shimla, and Manali. Private taxis are available from Manali and Shimla.
The Great Himalayan National Park
Home to exotic species of wildlife, including 181 species of birds, 31 species of mammals, and 376 species of fauna, The Great Himalayan National Park iis a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its significance for wildlife conservation. The altitude of the national park ranges between 1,500 and 6,000 m. It is one of the popular tourist attractions of Himachal Pradesh and is a haven for adventure lovers. There are numerous trekking trails in the national park, from moderate to challenging treks, which even take days. In addition, several Ecozone and seasonal activities in the national park are worth enjoying.
Best time to visit: April to June & December to February
Things to do: Bird watching, trekking, hiking, camping, nature walk, rock climbing, and river crossing.
How to reach: Bhuntar Airport is the nearest airport, and Chandigarh Railway Station is the nearest major railhead, which is well-connected with the major cities and towns of the state. It is the nearest major bus stop from where buses ply for Tirthan Valley regularly. Private taxis are available from Kullu, Manali, and Chandigarh.
Hadimba Devi Temple
Dedicated to Hadimba Devi, who was the wife of Bhima, one of the Pandavas from Mahabharata, Hadimba Devi Temple is among the major attractions of Manali. This religious site holds spiritual importance for locals. Locally known as Dungari Temple, this is a beautifully built shrine from rocks. This four-story temple has wooden doorways and is made in a Pagoda style. It is situated amidst the lush deodar forest and a perfect place to soak in the pristine aura of this beautiful hill town.
Best time to visit: October to June
Things to do: Sightseeing, nature walk, and Yak Safari
How to reach: Manali bus stop is the nearest major commutation place from where one can reach the temple easily. Bhuntar Airport is the nearest airport, and Chandigarh Railway Station is the nearest major railhead, well-connected with Manali. Auto Rickshaws and taxis are available from Manali to reach the temple.
Chandratal Lake
One of the two high-altitude wetlands in India designated as Ramsar Sites, Chandratal Lake is among the most beautiful lakes in Himachal Pradesh. Nestled at an altitude of 4,300 m above sea level, Chandratal Lake changes color with the sunlight. This pristine lake appears aquatic blue in the morning, greenish in the evening, and looks pitch-black during the nighttime. There are numerous camps on the bank of the lake where tourists can stay. The trek to Chandratal Lake offers a breathtaking view of the mighty Himalayas.
Best time to visit: June to October
Things to do: Trekking, camping, bonfire, and bird watching
How to reach: Manali bus stop is the nearest major bus stand from where tourists can reach the Batal and then trek to the lake. Also, tourists can visit the lake by private taxi.
Bhuntar Airport is the nearest airport, and Chandigarh Railway Station is the nearest major railhead, which is well-connected with Manali.
Triund
Perched at an altitude of 2,828 m above sea level, Triund Peak is among the famous Himachal tourist places that is thrived by adventure lovers and trekkers. The trek to Triund starts from Dharamkot, a nearby town of Dharamshala and Mcleodganj. From the top of the peak, tourists can admire the enchanting view of the Dhauladhar range. The snow-clad mountains and the view of the major nearby towns looks breathtaking. This is an easy trek where one has to cover almost 7 to 8 km. The beginners can efficiently complete this trek in 4-5 hours.
Best time to visit: May – June & September - October
Things to do: Trekking and nature walk
How to reach: Dharamshala and Mcleodganj are the nearest major towns that are well-connected with the nearby states and towns. The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport in Kangra and the nearest railhead is Pathankot Junction. The buses and taxis are available till Mcleodganj from Dharamkot and easily accessible.
Viceregal Lodge & Botanical Garden
Also known as the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, Viceregal Lodge is located on Observatory Hill in Shimla. This Victorian-style architectural marvel has been covered in an educational institution. This structure is an erstwhile office of the British government, known for its design. It is home to a rare collection of articles and photographs of the bygone era, which perfectly depicts the rich political history of the region.
Best time to visit: March to June & November to February
Things to do: Sightseeing tour
How to reach: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport, and the nearest railhead is also in Shimla, which is a narrow-gauge railway station. The buses and taxis are available till Shimla from Chandigarh, Delhi, Amritsar, Jammu, Ambala, and other nearby cities.
Maa Chintpurni Temple
Situated in the lower Shivalik range of the mighty Himalayas, Maa Chintpurni Temple is among the 51 Shakti Peethas in India. This is one of the most revered shrines in the country and is dedicated to Goddess Parvati. It is believed to be a place where the head of Goddess Sati fell, which is considered a sacred place in Hinduism. Consequently, there are a large number of pilgrims who visit the shrine every year to seek the blessings of the Goddess.
Best time to visit: April to October
Things to do: Pilgrimage tour
How to reach: The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport, and the nearest railhead is Amb. The buses and taxis are available till Amb from Chandigarh, Delhi, Una, and other nearby cities.
Kufri
A famous hill town situated just 20 km from Shimla, Kufri is among the top tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh. It is famous among families, kids, couples, and friends. Nature lovers can spend quality time there amidst lush greenery and serene environs. In winters, the region enjoys snowfall, making it look like a paradise. This is a year-round destination flocked by tourists from all over the country. People can indulge in numerous activities, including nature walks and trekking.
Best time to visit: April to October
Things to do: Pilgrimage tour
How to reach: The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport and the nearest railhead is Amb, which is easily accessible from the temple. The buses and taxis are available till Amb from Chandigarh, Delhi, Una, and other nearby cities.
Khajjiar
Fondly referred to as 'Mini Switzerland of India,' Khajjiar is a famous hill town situated near Dalhousie. Nestled in the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Khajjiar is blessed with breathtaking landscapes and jaw-dropping locales. Encompassed by deodar and pine-clad forest, Khajjiar is known for its lake and sprawling meadows. The region enjoys heavy snowfall during the winter season and transforms into a winter wonderland. The snow-capped mountains and forests covered with snow offer a unique experience to nature lovers and adventure fanatics.
Best time to visit: October to March
Things to do: Zorbing, paragliding, horse ride, trekking, camping, and nature walk
How to reach: The nearest airport is Pathankot Airport, and the nearest railhead is also in Pathankot, which is easily accessible from Khajjiar. Dalhousie and Chamba are the major nearby towns well-connected with other cities and towns by buses and taxis. From there, one can reach Khajjiar by taxi.
Kalka Shimla Toy Train
Kalka Shimla Toy train route is among the most beautiful routes in the country. The railway route runs through a narrow gauge line and offers a dramatic view of the serene landscape. The train takes through numerous tunnels and bridges from where tourists can admire the enchanting view of the mighty Himalayas and the towns and idyllic villages crossing en route. The toy train ride is a unique experience that one must enjoy once in their lifetime.
Best time to visit: October to March
Things to do: Sightseeing and train ride
How to reach: The nearest airport is Shimla Airport from Shimla railway station. Chandigarh railway station and Chandigarh Airport are the nearby commutation places from Kalka railway station. Tourists can easily visit the Shimla and Kalka railway stations by taxi.
Bhagsunag Waterfall
Surrounded by lush greenery and the mighty Himalayas, Bhagsunag Waterfall is a popular tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh. This place is flocked by tourists throughout the year. The trek to the waterfall is easy and can be completed in 20 minutes. The waterfall plunges from a height of 30 feet and forms a pool at the bottom where people can take a bath. There are numerous eateries situated near the waterfall where tourists can relish the savory dishes while enjoying the enchanting view of the cascade.
Best time to visit: October to March
Things to do: Trekking, hiking, and nature walk
How to reach: The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport, and the nearest railhead is also in Pathankot, which is easily accessible from Mcleodganj. Dharamshala and Mcleodganj are the major nearby towns well-connected with other cities and towns by buses and taxis.
You can enjoy a wonderful vacation in Himachal Pradesh by covering these tourist attractions. Plan a holiday through our well-curated Himachal tour packages if you want to find an efficient way to visit the best tourist attractions in Himachal. You can also modify the tour as per your preference with the help of our tour experts.
