Himachal Pradesh – ‘The Land of Snows’

Himachal Pradesh is a land of snow-clad mountains, rich culture, apple orchards, temples, monasteries, and adventure—making it one of India’s most loved tourist destinations.

• Best Time to Visit:
• Summer (March–June): Pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing and adventure sports.
• Monsoon (July–September): Risk of landslides; avoid unless you love greenery and fewer crowds.
• Winter (October–February): Snowfall in Shimla, Manali, Kufri, Dalhousie; great for snow lovers.
• Transport:
• Narrow winding roads – prefer hiring local drivers.
• Himachal has good Volvo bus services from Delhi/Chandigarh.
• Toy trains (Kalka–Shimla, Pathankot–Jogindernagar) are scenic rides.
• Safety:
• Check weather conditions before traveling to high passes (Rohtang, Kunzum).
• Network may be weak in remote valleys.
• Keep some cash—ATMs are not everywhere.

🏔️ Must-Visit Places in Himachal Pradesh

1. Shimla – The Queen of Hills

• Mall Road, Ridge, Christ Church
• Kufri (snow sports, zoo)
• Toy Train (UNESCO World Heritage)

2. Manali – Adventure Hub

• Rohtang Pass & Solang Valley (skiing, paragliding)
• Hidimba Temple, Manu Temple
• Old Manali cafés and hippie vibes

3. Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj

• Tibetan culture, Namgyal Monastery, Dalai Lama Temple
• Triund Trek (easy, scenic)
• Bhagsu Waterfall

4. Dalhousie & Khajjiar (Mini Switzerland of India)

• Pine forests, meadows
• Khajji Nag Temple
• Dainkund Peak

5. Kullu Valley

• River rafting in Beas
• Raghunath Temple
• Great Himalayan National Park (UNESCO site)

6. Spiti Valley (High-Altitude Desert)

• Monasteries: Key, Tabo, Dhankar
• Chandratal Lake (Moon Lake)
• Pin Valley National Park

7. Kinnaur

• Sangla Valley, Chitkul (last village near Tibet border)
• Apple orchards, Baspa River
• Kalpa for views of Kinner Kailash

8. Chamba

• Lakshmi Narayan Temple
• Chamera Lake (boating)
• Traditional Himachali handicrafts

9. Kasol & Parvati Valley

• Backpacker’s paradise
• Trek to Kheerganga, Tosh
• Hot water springs at Manikaran Sahib

10. Hamirpur, Solan, Bilaspur (Offbeat)

• Less crowded, spiritual places & trekking options