15 Must-Visit Tourist Places in Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh is synonymous with scenic beauty, serene landscapes, and adventure sports. Himachal means “the land of snow”. Situated in the western Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh has several hill stations which are the most appropriate destination to find respite from the scorching summer heat. Now known as a destination for “all seasons and all reasons”, with so many incredible places to visit, here’s a list of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh on your trip to the land of the Himalayas.

Best Places To Visit in Himachal Pradesh

Scroll down and find the best Himachal Pradesh destinations that should be on your travel list this year. And while these top places to visit in Himachal Pradesh are perfect for visiting throughout the year, here’s the best time to visit them to witness them in all their glory. Take a look!

• • Manali
  • Shimla
  • Dharamshala
  • Kasauli
  • Bir Billing
  • Dalhousie
  • Spiti Valley
  • Kasol
  • Khajjiar 
  • Palampur
  • Kinnaur  Valley
  • Chail
  • Barot Valley
  • Chamba
  • Lahaul Valley

1. Manali

Kullu-Manali is one of the highly-recommended places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. If you are on the lookout for fresh air and green mountains amidst the snow-covered ranges, then Kullu-Manali indeed should be at the top of your list. Solang Valley in Manali during snowfall gives you a chance at skiing and many more such adventure sports. While Kullu on the other hand promises you river-rafting, camping and trekking.

If you are done with all the adventures then you should pay a visit to the temples. Some famous temples of the region are- Jagganathi Temple, Hadimba Devi Temple, Naggar Castle, etc. Some of these temples are related to epics like Mahabharata. Remember to check out the Manali Bird Sanctuary.  There are numerous awesome places to visit in Manali that can make your vacation a perfect one!

Ideal Duration: 4-5 days

Best Time To Visit: May-July and November-January for snowfall.

Read More: Things to do in Manali

Himachal Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

2. Shimla

Shimla gives you glimpse of British sophistication in Indian soil. The architecture of the old buildings tells you a lot about the history of this place. Also known as the queen of hills, Shimla used to be colonial capital before Independence. That would explain the British influence in the architecture of the buildings. To understand the British influence, you can visit the Viceregal Lodge – one of the best places to visit in Shimla 

Keeping the rich history aside, one can shop their hearts out at the Mall Road. Peak tourist season, this place becomes crowded which almost feels like a festival.  Do not forget to try your hands on Polo at Annadale. Among other things to do in this place- you can trek to Jakhu Hill and pay a visit to the famous Hanuman Temple.  Without a doubt, it is one of the best tourist places in Himachal Pradesh.

Ideal Duration: 3-4days

Best Time To Visit: May –July and November-January for snowfall.

3. Dharamshala

Dharamshala definitely has to be on your list of the best Himachal Pradesh destinations.  Famous not only because of its climate but also because you get to see how the multicultural Indian community lives in harmony with the Indo-Tibetan community. This place is very important for the Buddhists as it has several monasteries. Take a moment to sit, relax and meditate. Meanwhile, one can enjoy a boat ride across the Dal Lake and admire the royal Kangra Fort. Apart from the monasteries, it is home of the Dalai Lama hence visiting the Dalai Lama Temple complex is a must!

Explore the Kangra Art Museum as it speaks volume about the traditions and practices of the region. The musuem is aimed to preserve the culture of the place – one of the places to visit in Dharamshala . You can get tired of the tall and vast concrete jungle but you can never get tired of the mighty pine trees with lush green leaves . What may seem like a never ending sea of green is the tea plantation on the foothills of Kangra Valley. Get drenched at the cascading Bhagsu Falls and then pay a visit to the Bhagsunath Temple to complete your journey.

Ideal Duration: 2-3days

Best Time To Visit: May –July and November-January for snowfall

4. Kasauli

Kasauli is a perfect getaway from the hustle and 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. Start your trip with blessings from the very old Anglican Church which was built in the British Era. Followed by a trek on the lower mall which leads to the Monkey Point, in the shape of Lord Hanuman’s foot.

If that doesn’t tire you out take a hike to the Gilbert Trail. Kasauli has several trekking spots but all of them guarantee jaw-dropping sunrise and sunset. You can go shopping for wood and metal work where you can see the intricate details of stunning craftsmanship. Your trip to Kasauli includes temples, churches from colonial era and treks that promise the most beautiful sunrise and sunset.

Ideal Duration: 3-4 days

Best Time To Visit: November – March & December – January for snowfall.

5. Bir Billing

Bir Billing is the mecca for adventure sports and it has to be on your list of the top Himachal Pradesh tourist places. Bir is a small village which is located on the western side of Himachal Pradesh and is blessed with a refreshing climate. To experience some adrenaline rush, paraglide in the beautiful Himalayan valleys and camp under skies full of stars. Explore the gorgeous Buddhist monasteries in Bhattu, Choggan, and Chauntra Bhattu colony located in the center of the forest. Meditating here is so peaceful and quiet that you can hear your own thoughts.

Just around 10 km from Bir Billing is the beautifully carved 13th-century Vaidyanath devoted to Lord Shiva. The intricate details on the temple will humble you with all the time and hard-work it took in carving. If you begin your mornings with tea, then spare some time to visit the Palampur Tea Cooperative where you can attend a free tour to see the tea-making process.

Ideal Duration: 2-3 days

Best Time To Visit: May-July

Also More: Best Treks of Himachal

6. Barot Valley

Barot is known to a few people and explored by even more fewer people. For those looking for pristine destinations, this is the perfect place to be, in the heart of beautiful Himachal Pradesh. Barot 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 one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, but only a few people know about it.

If you are tired of the same old mundane life, looking for an escape? Then Barot is your escape. You can spend your day by fishing by the river, going on a trek, camping under the moonlight and stargazing at night. Experience the beauty of a slow life at Barot where you do not worry about deadlines or sitting through hours of meetings. It is just the nature and you!

Ideal Duration: 1-2 days

Best Time To Visit: April – June; November – February

7. Dalhousie

Dalhousie is yet another hill station in Himachal Pradesh which is ideal for de-stressing in the serene, tranquil troposphere. Away from the hustle-bustle of city life, sit back and enjoy nature in Dalhousie, one of the top Himachal Pradesh tourist places. Start your trip with the evergreen valley of Khajjiar, also known as the Switzerland of India. If you love walks and nature then take a long walk in Dainkund Walk, Ganji Pahadi Walk, and Bakrota Walk.

Visit the  oldest church of the town which is of historical importance, St. John’s Church. After praying to the Lord, take a refreshing dip at the Chamera Falls and the Satdhara Falls. Don’t forget to explore the gorgeous places to visit in Dalhousie to get the best experiences of this place.

Ideal Duration: 2-3days

Best Time To Visit: April to July

8. Spiti Valley

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. Some monasteries that you can visit –  Millennium Monastery, Dhankar Monastery, etc. You can also visit Gue Mummy, which is a 500 year-old mummy of a Buddhist monk. Meanwhile, you can take a hike at traditional meditation centre at Lari Dupuk. Admire the rock carvings at Tabo Monastery – one of the places to visit in Spiti Valley and appreciate its craftsmanship.

If you are lucky, you may even spot a snow leopard or an ibex. Plan your trip strategically and attend the cultural show (cham dance) to know more about the culture of the place. When in Spiti, try the local delicacies! After being energized by the local food, walk to the famous Rangrik Rewa cave and visit the Snow Point Kunzom. This trip wont disappoint you .

Ideal Duration: 2-3 days

Best Time To Visit: May-July

9. Kasol

Kasol is known as the little Israel of India in Himachal Pradesh, based in the Parvati Valley. It’s just on the way to the holy town of Manikaran and is the best hill station in Himachal. Kasol is ideal for hiking in the jungle, so unleash  your active self and go trekking at Parvati Valley (also known as the ‘Stoner’s Paradise’).

Trek to Kheerganga, beat the cold and take a dip in the hot water spring. It is a rewarding experience. The chilly air while you relax in the hot water spring, hits all the right spots! After the hot spring, you can spot the pristine Parvati River. All of the hikes will surely tire you out. Hence book your stay at hotels near Kasol and relax yourself for the next day.

Ideal Duration: 3 Days

Best Time To Visit: May and June

10. Khajjiar

Khajjiar is located in the Chamba district, it is a gorgeous valley and one of the best Himachal tourist places. Check out the Khajjiar Lake and Ground which looks like a view straight out of a poem. You can reach this place while crossing the Bakrota Hills from Dalhousie. Take blessings from Khajji Nag Temple, an ancient temple in Khajjiar hence making one of places to visit in Khajjiar

After paying a visit to the temple, take a bite of an apple from the apple orchards of the local villages. Do not worry about the villagers because they are very friendly and welcoming. The most interesting bit of this trip is the view of Mount Kailash which is believed to be the home to Lord Shiva. Khajjiar is indeed a great place to relax and unwind in the beautiful and refreshing environment.

Ideal Duration: 3 Days

Best Time To Visit: May to June

11. Palampur

Palampur is famed for its tea gardens and zoo, it is listed among offbeat places of Himachal. This is an ideal place to visit with family, as children and parents will find many attractions equally interesting.  You can go for a slow paced trek, while also visiting the local villages in the area. The locals are as welcoming as they come. Visit the local zoo and spot your favorite animals.

Spend your evening with a boat ride followed by a sip of tea from the tea gardens. Fresh out of the produce! The scenic splendor will have you bewitched and thanks to easy accessibility and many accommodation options. You can stay at hotels near Palampur, it is a perfect getaway.

Ideal Duration: 1 night 2 days

Best Time To Visit: Anytime

12. Kinnaur Valley

Kinnaur is known for its apples, 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 end of Himachal Pradesh. Bestowed with a vibrant cultural scenario, Kinnaur’s landscape is bejeweled with gigantic snow-clad mountains. You can go on a heritage trail, exploring Kamru Fort, Nako Gompa and Hamlets.

This trek can be followed by some peaceful time beside the Namo Lake. The trek is bound to burn your energy so try the Tibetan delicacies at Tibetan Cafeteria. If you are confused then try thukpa as it is a fulfilling bowl of goodness.  Currently, it is not under tourists’ radar, so if you want to go off the beaten road, Kinnaur it is!

Ideal Duration: 1 night 2 days

Best Time To Visit: June to September

13. Chail

Chail is known mainly for the world’s highest cricket ground and Chail Palace, the gorgeous heritage hotel nestled amidst pine and deodar trees. It is a relatively quiet and pristine paradise lying close to Shimla.  Visit the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary – one of the places to visit in Chail and spot the Himalayan Wildlife. You can spot the Himalayan Black Bear which thrives in this sanctuary along with Rhesus Macaques and common Langurs.

It is located at a higher altitude than most of the popular hill stations surrounding it, which is why it offers unparalleled views of lush greenery all around. The Instagram-worthy views of pine forests, mist-covered hills, and verdant valleys are what attract nature lovers and photography enthusiasts to this place. It’s also a hiker’s paradise owing to the unexplored bounty of nature surrounding it. It’s among the most unique places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in summer if you need a calm and relaxing vacation far away from the polluted and noisy metros.

Ideal Duration: 2 nights 3 days

Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year

14. Chamba

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 caves which are also a major tourist attraction of this town and is known to be one of the best tourist places in Himachal Pradesh.

Chamba offers splendid views of the Pir Panjal range, Zanskar, and Dhauladhar range in the backdrop. You can make a stop at the Bhuri Singh Museum – one of the places to visit in Chamba, which is an interesting place to learn about the culture and tradition of Chamba. Followed by blessings from Champavati Temple and Sui Mata Temple. 

Ideal Duration: 1-2 days

Best Time To Visit: October to June

15. Lahaul Valley

The Lahaul Valley happens to be one of the most surreal tourist places in Himachal Pradesh. A perfect escape for the adventure junkies, this place is like the ideal vacation destination. Surrounded by the null vegetation, clear blue skies, and also pollution-free air, Lahaul Valley is a picturesque location to find that lost solace.

For people who are up for some photography and want to capture the finest beauty of nature, Lahaul is the place to be. This valley is perfect if you are trying to escape the chaotic city. You can trek here, the place is so quiet that you can hear yourself think which makes it one of the best places to visit In Himachal Pradesh.

Ideal Duration: 1-2 days

Best Time To Visit: May to mid-October

Like the post? We bet you did! So, which of these delightful hubs will you be exploring first? Let us know in the comments below. And share this list of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh with your family and travel buddies and plan a wonderful trip to Himachal right away!

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Abhay Kumar

Abhay Kumar is a graduate of English Literature. Writing is both his hobby and his passion. He writes academic research articles as well as poetry and short fiction. He loves reading science fiction, fantasy, literary fiction, and translated fiction. He also loves traveling and writing about himself in the third person.