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Himachal Pradesh is a highly blessed state of India with incredible beauty and immense charm. The gorgeous mountains, the clear and fast-moving rivers, the lush meadows, the gushing waterfalls, the flower-carpeted hills, all together form some of the most astonishing landscapes. It is a relaxing escape for most of the city dwellers from their fast-paced and busy lifestyle. The place gets all the more popular during summers when people head out to the hills to breathe some fresh air and escape the heat. So, if you ever hear the mountains calling, here are some of the places you can explore in Himachal Pradesh in May and other summer months. This will be a trip that you will forever remember and cherish. 

Best Time To Visit Himachal Pradesh In 2024

Himachal Pradesh

The best time to visit Himachal Pradesh is during the Summer season that extends from April to June and Sring season that lasts from February to April. These months offer the best opportunities to enjoy nature and indulge in adventure activities. The vegetation is in its full bloom and it is also the time when most of the trekking trails take place. Among all the months, Summer is the time when most of the people from the cities getaway to the hills seeking an escape from the heat. The Himachal Pradesh temperature in May and other summer months ranges between 5°C and 24°C with night temperatures dropping to 3.2°C. Himachal Pradesh weather in May and other months of the Summer season is pleasant with mountain breeze and snowfall in the high altitudes only.


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16 Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh In May

Himachal Pradesh is a heavenly abode for those admire nature and the adventure junkies. Himachal Pradesh is undoubtedly a slice of heaven and there is no going back once you taste this slice. Here are some of the most picturesque places to visit Himachal Pradesh in the month of May. Also, the climate in Himachal Pradesh in May is quite good to explore these beautiful places. 

  • Manali – A Hub For Adventure Seekers
  • Dalhousie – The Land Of Mesmerizing Views
  • Bir Billing – Get A View Of Himachal From Up Above
  • Kinnaur – Witness The Blend Of Hinduism & Buddhism
  • Palampur – Soothe Your Eyes With Green Vistas
  • Spiti Valley – Explore The Bucolic Nature
  • Khajjiar – The Mini-Switzerland Of Himachal
  • Kasauli – Traverse Among The Pine & Cedar Forests
  • Shimla – Visit The Colonial Architectures
  • Kasol – Trek & Gorge On The Israeli Food
  • Chamba – Peaceful And Serene Views
  • Kangra – Land Of Gods
  • Hamirpur – Quaint Place
  • Dharamshala – The Little Lhasa
  • Mashobra – Known For Mesmerizing Scenery
  • Parwanoo – Captivating Ambience

1. Manali – A Hub For Adventure Seekers

Manali

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This resort town located at the high altitudes of Himalayas is blessed with some of the most captivating landscapes. The lush green meadows, densely forested hills, the fast running water streams and everything that this place holds will surely make you admire the wonders of nature. This is also among those few places where you would find snow in Himachal Pradesh in May. Resting on the river Beas, Manali is a gateway to all the adventures mankind would have ever wished from nature. Exciting trekking trails, maddening rafting scenes, the freedom to paraglide in the far wide sky and many other thrilling opportunities await you in this heaven of Himachal Pradesh in May. For those who have a thing for the mystical old places can also visit the ancient hill temples in Manali.

Places To Visit: Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Beas Kund, Chandratal Baralacha, Hadimba Temple, Vashisht Baths, The Great Himalayan National Park, Hampta Pass, Manikaran

Things to do: Paragliding, river rafting, mountain biking, trekking, camping, and zorbing

Places to stay: Apple Croft Cottage, Orchards House, Forest Way Cottage, Kalpna Hotel & Cottages

Nearby attractions: Naggar, Arjun Gufa, Marhi, Kothi, Kunzum Pass, and Bhrigu Lake

Famous for: Monasteries and camping

Ideal Duration: 4 days

How To Reach: Nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar which is connected to major domestic and international airports in India. By road it takes 12 Hours approximately from Delhi to reach Manali.

Must Read: 11 Travel Tips For Himachal Pradesh That Will Come In Handy For Your Trip

2. Dalhousie – The Land Of Mesmerizing Views

Dalhousie

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Surround yourself with the irresistible old world charm and spellbinding landscapes of this small town in the Himalayas, called Dalhousie. The classic ambiance created by the Scottish and Victorian architecture will teleport to another time-zone. With pine trees filling the valley and flowerbeds carpeting the hilly meadows, this place has an amazing romantic vibe that can melt even the hardest of hearts. A former summer destination of the Britishers, Dalhousie is one of the best places to visit Himachal Pradesh in May.

Places To Visit: Khajjiar, Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary, Satdhara Falls, Panchpula, Dainkund Peak, Bakrota Hills, St. John Church, Chamunda Devi Temple, Chamba, Ganji Pahari

Things to do: Boating, trekking, camping, sightseeing, and shopping

Places to stay: Hotel Mount View, Grand View Hotel, Hotel Himdhara, and Snow Valley Resorts

Nearby attractions: Prashar Lake, Shimla, Amritsar, Palampur, and Chamba

Famous for: Hills, churches, mountain views, and temples

Ideal Duration: 3 days

How to reach: The nearest airport to Dalhousie is in Kangra located at a distance of 13 kms. Pathankot is the nearest railway station from where taxis can be rented to reach Dalhousie.

Suggested Read: 3 Most Beautiful Villas In Dalhousie To Book For Your Holiday

3. Bir Billing – Get A View Of Himachal From Up Above

Bir Billing

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Bir is a town where the exorbitant and calm energies meet. The presence of Tibetan refugee settlements has made way to the establishment of several Buddhist monasteries. The mystic air in Bir quenches the thirst of many peace-seekers. On the other hand, with its unmatchable Paragliding scenes, the destination allures adventure junkies from throughout the country. Experience the adrenaline rush-giving altitude shift of 800m as you take-off from Billing and land at Bir. Paragliding in Bir Billing is one of the best things to do in Himachal Pradesh in May.

Places To Visit: Bir Road, Sherab Ling Monastery, Tibetan Colony, Bir Tea Factory, Chokling Monastery, Deer Park Institute

Things to do: Paragliding, camping, hang gliding, mountain biking, and trekking

Places to stay: Bir Resort Hotel, Hotel Flyers Paradise, and Tatva Bir Resort

Nearby attractions: Barot Valley, Dharamshala, and Mcleodganj

Famous for: Paragliding and hang-gliding 

Ideal Duration: 2 days

How to reach: Ahju railway station is the nearest railway station to Bir at a distance of 3 kms. 

Suggested Read: Explore The Himalayas: 48 Best Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh

4. Kinnaur – Witness The Blend Of Hinduism & Buddhism

Kinnaur

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235 km from Shimla is located Kinnaur, a beautiful place featured by rocky mountains and rivers – Satluj, Baspa, and Spiti river. Kinnaur puts across the best examples of harmonious coexistence of two religions – Hinduism and Buddhism. Hindus visit here to see Kinner Kailash believed to be the home of Lord Shiva and Shivaling rocks. The place is also popular due to the stories associated with Pandavas. Kinnaur also has old monasteries. This lush green “Land of God” has a culture of its own, undisturbed by modernization. It offers adventure experiences that you would love, especially the trekking trails some of which last for even 5 to 6 days.

Places To Visit: Reckong Peo, Kalpa, Sarahan, Nako, Ribba, Kothi, Moorang, Lippa, Namgya, Nichar

Things to do: Trekking, trout fishing, rock climbing, and valley crossing

Places to stay: Lake View Resort, Banjara Camps & Retreat, and Zostel Chitkul

Nearby attractions: Chitkul and Sangla

Famous for: Rocky mountainscape, greenery, and views

Ideal Duration: 4-5 days

How to reach: The best way to reach Kinnaur is by road. It takes 15 hours from Delhi.

Suggested Read: 20 Extreme Adventure Sports In Manali That Will Get Your Heart Racing


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5. Palampur – Soothe Your Eyes With Green Vistas

Palampur

The sight of Victorian architecture set amidst the gorgeous landscapes is simply breathtaking. The place features lush green tea gardens and deodar forests and several water streams. Palampur is an offbeat destination to visit in Himachal Pradesh in May. Therefore, it is also a less explored place and offers many exclusive experiences. The place was first noticed by an Englishmen, which was turned into a busy town. The mansions and castles that still stand here tell the story of those colonial days.

Places To Visit: Tashi Jong Monastery, Tea gardens, Saurabh Van Vihar, Neugal Khad, Baijnath Temple, Naam Art Gallery

Things to do: Paragliding, trekking, exploring, and sightseeing

Places to stay: Ekaant Homes, Rakkh Resort, Norwood Green Resort, and Tea Garden Resort

Nearby attractions: Bir, Barota, Mcleodganj, and Kangra Fort

Famous for: Aromatic tea gardens and colonial-era architecture

Ideal Duration: 5-6 days

How to reach: The nearest airport is in Dharamshala which is 25 kms from Palampur.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Homestays In Himachal Pradesh That’ll Make You Fall In Love At First Sight!

6. Spiti Valley – Explore The Bucolic Nature

Spiti Valley

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There’s a spectacular valley surrounded by the Himalayas, located at an elevation of 12,500 feet above the sea level. Known as the Spiti Valley, it is characterized by winding roads, cold deserts, snow-capped mountains, and pristine rivers. The place also has many beautiful ancient Buddhist monasteries. Spiti is accessible only for 6 months in a year through motorable roads. The dense snow from the mountains cut off the city from the rest of the country for the rest of the year. Rightly named as “The Middle Land”, Spiti Valley separates India from Tibet and bags its position in the list of the best places to visit in Himachal in May.

Places To Visit: Chandratal Lake, Key Monastery, Kunzum Pass, Pin Valley National Park, Suraj Tal Lake, Dhankar Monastery

Things to do: River rafting, camping, trekking, hunting, star gazing, and yak safari

Places to stay: Zostel Spiti, The Spiti HPTDC Hotel, Moustache Kaza Spiti, and Hotel Spiti Sarai

Nearby attractions: Chandratal Lake, Kaza, and Pin National Park

Famous for: Monasteries and amazing views

Ideal Duration: 6-7 days

How to reach: One of the best ways to reach Spiti is by boarding a flight from your origin of destination till Bhuntar which is the nearest airport to Spiti. 

Suggested Read: Spiti Valley In August: A Guide For Visiting The Heaven In The North

7. Khajjiar – The Mini-Switzerland Of Himachal

Khajjiar

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Situated at an altitude of 6,500 feet, Khajjiar is a small plateau-town in Himachal Pradesh. With landscapes merging dense forests, lush pastures, and pristine lakes, this place is often addressed as the “mini-Switzerland of India”. Khajjiar has some really beautiful temples that attract pilgrims and travelers alike. The adventure scenes offered here are also popular and include paragliding, trekking, zorbing, horse riding. Khajjiar’s picture-perfect landscapes make it one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in May.

Places To Visit: Khajjiar Lake, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Lord Shiva Statue, Golden Devi Temple, Tibetan Handicraft Centre, Khajji Nag Temple

Things to do: Paragliding, zorbing, trekking, and horse riding

Places to stay: Anjali Cottage, Hotel Mini Swiss, Hotel Devdar, and Mid Conifer Resort & Cottages

Nearby attractions: Kalatop, Subhash Baoli, and Upper Bakrota

Famous for: Vast meadows and deodar forests

Ideal Duration: 2 days

How to reach: Khajjiar is located close to Dalhouise; which can be reached via flight from every major Indian city.

Suggested Read: Romance In The Hills: 15 Best Honeymoon Destinations In Himachal Pradesh

8. Kasauli – Traverse Among The Pine & Cedar Forests

Kasauli

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Kasauli is a small cantonment hill-town located on the way from Chandigarh to Shimla. The place features pine and cedar forests. And grand Victorian styled buildings that were built in the colonial days. The environment is peaceful and refreshing, which makes Kasauli a short escape from the tiring city life. Kasauli’s proximity to the cities makes it one of the best tourist places in Himachal Pradesh in May.

Places To Visit: Monkey Point, Mall Road, Sunset Point, Lover’s Lane, Gurudwara Shri Guru Nanakji, Baptist Church, Sri Baba Balak Nath Temple

Things to do: Trekking, nature walks, toy train ride, exploring, and sightseeing

Places to stay: Owl’s Nest Villa, Kasauli Exotica, Marvel Hills, and Kasauli Castle Resort

Nearby attractions: Solan, Chail, Shimla, Dharampur, Parwanoo, and Salogra

Famous for: Kasauli Brewery, sunset point, and trekking

Ideal Duration: 2-3 days

How to reach: Chandigarh is the nearest airport to Kasauli and is well-connected via major cities of India.

 

9. Shimla – Visit The Colonial Architectures

Shimla

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Shimla has always been one of the most popular places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in May. Located at a height of 2200 meters and most of the building structures done in colonial architecture, this hill station oozes classic British vibes. This summer capital of British, set amidst mesmerizing hills and dense forests is one of the most beautifully planned Indian cities. From houses to prominent buildings, from streets to toy trains, Shimla is picturesque left, right, and center.

Places To Visit: Ridge, Kufri, Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, Chail, Himachal State Museum, Christ Church, Annadale, Scandal Point, Himalayan Bird Park, Lakkar Bazaar, Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary

Things to do: Trekking, sightseeing, ice skating, camping, paragliding, river rafting, and toy train ride

Places to stay: Shimla Nature Ville, Sai Cottage, Shimla Havens Resort, and Meena Bagh

Nearby attractions: Kufri, Chail, Mashobra, Narkanda, and Tattapani

Famous for: Holiday retreat

Ideal Duration: 2 days

How to reach: Shimla is located at a distance of 342 kms from Delhi and it takes approximately 8 hours to reach via road.

Suggested Read: 18 Secret Places In Himachal Tourists Haven’t Discovered Yet

10. Kasol – Trek & Gorge On The Israeli Food

Kasol

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Located in the banks of Parvati Rover, Kasol is a small hill village in the Parvati Valley of Kullu district. Popularly known as the “Amsterdam of India”, Kasol is one of the best destinations to visit in Himachal in May. The place is majorly loved by adventure seekers and nature lovers. The beautiful places to visit in Kasol are really a treat to the eyes. This hill station is inhabited by a large number of Israelis, so you would find many places serving Israeli food, and signposts on the streets with instructions in Hebrew. The sight of the river flowing fast through the valley, surrounded by huge mountains, pine trees and rocks lining the riversides, and waterfalls gushing down the mountains is simply breathtaking. 

Places To Visit: Parvati River, Kheerganga, Malana, Tosh, Chalal

Things to do: Trekking, camping, night parties, and shopping

Places to stay: The Hosteller, Thakur Cottage, and Kasol Hills Camps & Cottages

Nearby attractions: Malana village, Manikaran, Pulga, and Tosh

Famous for: Parvati valley and Kheerganga trek

Ideal Duration: 3 days

How to reach: The nearest airport to Kasol is Kullu Manali Airport from where you can rent a taxi to reach Kasol.

Suggested Read: River Rafting In Himachal Pradesh: Navigate Himalayan Waters On Your Mountain Getaway

11. Chamba – Peaceful And Serene Views

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Chamba is a small town located in Himachal Pradesh. This town is known for its beauty, magnificent views, ancient ruins, temples, and caves. It is famous for views of Dhauladhar ranges, Zanskar, and Pir Panjal. Chamba is popular for its handicrafts and Pahari art. This is one of the places in Himachal Pradesh to visit in May that offers absolute serenity and calm. Chamba is the base camp for many treks in the Himalayan ranges. A Himachal trip in May will get you away from the monotony of your urban lifestyle.

Places to visit: Akhand Chandi Palace, Champavati Temple, Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Bhuri Singh Museum

Things to do: Visit Bhuri singh museum, Manimahesh Lake, Kalatop Wildlife sanctuary

Places to stay: H20 House, Mahajan Guest House, Orchard Huts

Nearby Attractions: Dalhousie, Khajjiar

Famous for: Art, Temples, Nature

Ideal Duration: 1-2 days

How to reach: Nearest airport is in Pathankot which is connected via Chandigarh and Delhi. Road route can also be taken to reach here.

Suggested Read: 13 Wildlife Sanctuaries In Himachal Pradesh To Treat Your Inner Adventurer

12. Kangra – Land Of Gods

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Kangra is one of the most beautiful and scenic places in Himachal Pradesh. It is known as the backdrop of the Dhauladhar Range, ancient temples, and tea plantations. Kangra is known as the Devbhumi or as the Land of the Gods as this place has a large number of temples. Through the valley, the Beas River flows through painting quite a picture. The most famous attraction of this place is Jwala Devi Temple inside which houses an eternal flame which has been burning continuously for forever.

Places to visit: Kangra Fort, Brajeshwari Temple, Nurpur, Kareri Lake, Hot springs

Things to do: Historical tours, camping, trekking

Places to stay: Him trail adventure camps, River Retreat by Rivaa

Nearby Attractions: Dharamshala, Mcleodganj

Famous for: Temples, Forts, and Historic Ruins

Ideal Duration: 4 days

How to reach: Kangra is located at a distance of 450 kms from Delhi and it takes about 8-9 hours to reach it when travelling via road.

Suggested Read: 8 Churches In Himachal Pradesh That Are Perfectly Enveloped Within Hills

13. Hamirpur – Quaint Place

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Hamirpur is one more beautiful and is one of the best places in Himachal Pradesh in May. This quaint little town is filled with a large number of temples that are old and alluring. The place is filled with activities that one can indulge in on their trip to this paradise. Hamirpur is one of the low elevation hill stations where the elevations range from flatlands to heights of cliffs. The place is famous for being the most literate district in the state of Himachal Pradesh.

Places to visit: Deotsidh Temple, Sujanpur Tihra, Awah Devi Temple, Bilkeshwar Temple

Things to do: Trekking, Hiking, Camping

Places to stay: Bassi Hotel, Ishwar Residency

Nearby Attractions: Mandi, Bir

Famous for: Trekking, Baba balak nath, unexplored places

Ideal Duration: 3 Days

How to reach: The nearest airport is Kangra airport at a distance of 94 kms from where you can rent a taxi.

14. Dharamshala – The Little Lhasa

Image Credit – Amit for Wikimedia

Located in Kangra district, Dharamshala is a scenic hill station famous for its gorgeous lake, beautiful waterfall, colourful temples and monasteries and amazing museums. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best places to visit in May as the town offers a lot of fun activities which you can try during your trip. It is a favorite site for trekkers due to the scenic mountainous terrain. There are many treks of different levels which you can start from here. There are many other things to do in Dharamshala that engage travelers. Take time to explore and capture the beauty of this place. 

Places to visit: Gyuto Monastery, War Memorial, Dharamshala Cricket Stadium

Things to do: Sightseeing tour, shopping and trekking

Places to stay: Hotel Inclover and Holiday Hill

Nearby Attractions: Dalhousie, Khajjiar and Bir

Famous for: Tibetan culture, temples and handicrafts 

Ideal Duration: 3 Days

How to reach:  Dharamshala is well-connected by a number of bus services available from all the major cities in Himachal Pradesh

15. Mashobra – Known For Mesmerizing Scenery

Image Credit  – Supreet for Wikimedia

Mashobra is another famous destination in Himachal that is famous for its gorgeous scenery, beautiful orchards and pleasant climate throughout the year. However, visiting Mashobra in May is one of the best time as it offers a range of outdoor activities like boating, trekking, camping, paragliding, and wildlife spotting. If you visit during this time, you also get a chance to be a part of the famous event called Mahasu Fair held at Mahasu Devta Temple. 

Places to visit: Jhaku Temple, Christ Church, The Ridge

Things to do: Camping, trekking, river rafting, bird watching

Places to stay: Mashobra Greens, Star View Cottage

Nearby Attractions: Solan, Chail

Famous for: Mesmerizing scenery

Ideal Duration: 2 – 4 Days

How to reach: The nearest airport to Mashobra is Shimla airport which is about 45 minutes away from where you can hire a taxi 

16. Parwanoo – Captivating Ambience

Image Credit – Shyamal for Wikimedia

If you are looking to relax yourself from the stress of daily life, Parwanoo is just the ideal destination for you. Known for its beautiful fruit orchards, and scenic beauty, it is a great place to visit in May. Though the weather remains pleasant throughout the year, May is the right time to enjoy the lush greenery of the place. Travelling during this time will be a memorable experience for you. 

Places to visit: Timber Trail, Fruit Orchards, Kali Mata Temple

Things to do: Cable car ride, shopping, watch gorgeous sunset

Places to stay: Timber Trail Heights, The Sonnet Menage

Nearby Attractions: Kasauli, Kufri, Bhuntar

Famous for: Fruit orchards

Ideal Duration: 2 Days

How to reach: Chandigarh airport is the nearest airport situated at a distance of 22 km from Parwanoo

Further Read: 5 Types Of Offbeat Stays In Himachal You’ve Been Missing All This While

Himachal Pradesh has some of the most captivating hill stations in India. Are you spellbound by its charm too? If yes, plan a trip to Himachal Pradesh soon and head out on a hill-vacation with your family or friends. A solo trip is also not a bad idea in Himachal Pradesh in May, though. The mountains are calling aloud, don’t make them wait for too long. Hurry!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Himachal Pradesh In May

Is May the best time to visit Himachal Pradesh?

Yes, the best time to visit Himachal Pradesh is between March and June when the weather is pleasant with a cool breeze for a relaxing excursion.

Is Himachal Pradesh safe to visit?

Himachal Pradesh is considered to be a safe place to explore which is why it can be visited by families, friends as well as solo travelers. One can head to this state of India without any hesitation.

How far is Himachal from Delhi?

The total distance between the two states comes out to be 271 kilometers which can be covered in two ways – railways and roadways. You can either take a bus or a car from Delhi to reach Himachal or you can take a ride on the train and deboard at the station required.

What can I buy in Himachal?

Some of the best things to buy in Himachal are Kullu shawls, Himachali caps, handicrafts, wooden flowers, apples, and leather items.

What should one wear in Himachal Pradesh?

What clothes to carry in Himachal totally depends on the month you are planning your trip. In summer months, light woolen clothes will suffice whereas, in winter, you will have to carry heavy woolen clothes, windcheater, shawls, etc. to keep yourself away from the cold.

Which is the most beautiful place in Himachal Pradesh?

Kullu-Manali, Dharamshala, Kasauli and Bir, Billing are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Himachal Pradesh.

Which month is best for Himachal Pradesh?

March- June is the perfect time to visit Himachal Pradesh. It is pleasant and welcoming too.

What is famous in Himachal?

Himachal is best known for many adventure activities like rock climbing, mountain biking, paragliding, ice-skating, trekking, rafting, and heli-skiing that are quite popular.

Is Rohtang Pass open now?

It is open in summer but it gets closed when it is going to snow there heavily. The place gets heavy season near the Gulaba check post.

Which season is best for Himachal Pradesh?

The best season to visit Himachal, of course, would be the summer season. These months are from March to June and then again you have the September to December season. Himachal Pradesh can be visited at any point during the year, depending on the kind of weather conditions you prefer.

Is Himachal Pradesh safe?

Himachal Pradesh is safe, quite safe for women. And as far as solo traveling is concerned it is safe, and there are a lot of people who do solo traveling here.

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