Himachal Pradesh is in the western Himalayas. The beauty of this land is beyond imagination, surrounded by majestic mountains, which still challenge humanity to conquer them. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, explorers, and travelers. Here are our recommendations for the best locations to visit in the ‘Abode of Snow.’
Kasol
On the banks of the Parvati River lies a photogenic hamlet of Kasol, also referred to as the ‘Little Israel of India’. Laidback and serene, Kasol is popular among backpackers and hippies, and with good reason. The stunning landscape of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, scenic waterfalls and undisturbed trekking routes makes it a paradise for nature lovers and trekkers.
The beautiful environment of snow-capped mountains, verdant valleys, gorgeous waterfalls, and unspoiled hiking routes makes it a nature lover’s and trekker’s dream. The availability of quaint cafés and budget-friendly accommodation choices, and calm attitude make it an ideal backpacking destination.
Kasauli:
Kasauli, a tiny colonial town, is located at an elevation of 1,900 meters. In terms of attractions, trade, and population, the city is small. However, it is precisely where its beauty and attraction lay – its pure air, quiet and peaceful mood, and wealth of wildlife are what draw visitors. The Baptist Church and Christ Church are among the locations you may visit.
Manali
Manali, located at an elevation of 2,050 metres in the River Beas valley, is a picture-perfect highland hideaway that attracts thousands of travelers every year. The gorgeous scenery, which includes thick pine and deodar woods, snow-capped mountains, scenic meadows, waterfalls, and valleys, draws adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Alternatively, old temples and Tibetan monasteries entice the spirit.
Dharamshala:
Dharamshala, located in the high parts of Kangra Valley, has one of the finest climates in Himachal. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks of the Dhauladhar Himalayas and beautiful pine and deodar woods, the town is rich in cultural and architectural features and many restaurants, cafés, and stores catering to its diverse ethnic Indian and Tibetan inhabitants.
Its outskirts, including McLeod Ganj India’s Mini Tibet, Dharamkot, Sindhbari, Ramnagar, and Naddi, are worth visiting. In addition, with a multitude of trekking routes, waterfalls, and picturesque valleys, the town attracts explorers from all over the world.
Chitkul
Chitkul, a small but lovely village in Himachal’s Kinnaur region, is possibly the last inhabited settlement close to the Indo-China border. There isn’t much to see and do in the hamlet. Still, its picturesque scenery of lush green foliage, snow-laden mountains, and apple orchards, as well as its quiet attitude, make it an excellent destination for people wanting to be one with nature – in complete silence. Its charming homes, complete with wooden or slate roofs, and a temple that houses the town’s 500-year-old god are particularly appealing.
Spiti Valley
Spiti Valley is an isolated town amid the freezing desert highlands. Yet, despite its remoteness, a growing number of spiritual and adventure tourists are flocking to Spiti to visit its numerous Buddhist temples and participate in exhilarating activities such as hiking, mountain biking, white-water rafting, and animal spotting.
Furthermore, it is flanked by numerous high-altitude settlements, including Tabo, Kaza, Dhankar, Kibber, Komic, and Langza, which may all be visited on your Spiti tour.
Shimla
Shimla, often known as the Queen of Hills, is a beautiful colonial hill station with magnificent vistas around every corner. Shimla is a great place to wander and see some of the best colonial-era architecture, including the Viceregal Lodge, Town Hall, Gaiety Theatre, and Christ Church.
The city’s location in the foothills of the Himalayas, surrounded by lush vegetation and snow-covered mountains, makes it ideal for trekking and other outdoor activities. However, when winter arrives, the Queen of Hills’ allure grows exponentially — the entire city is blanketed in snow, a sight to behold.
Dalhousie
Dalhousie is a year-round vacation destination, but it is beautiful in the winter when the entire hill town is coated in white sheets. Adventure seekers go to Dalhousie to participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, river rafting, canoeing, kayaking, and camping, surrounded by mountains, flowing waterfalls, lakes, and thick pine and oak trees.
Mini Switzerland of India- Khajjiar
In the middle of thick deodar woods, green meadows, and the snow-capped Himalayas, Khajjiar is a small slice of paradise. Visitors can explore its beautiful scenery, get up close and personal with exotic wildlife at the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. You can also participate in outdoor activities such as forest trekking, zorbing, horse riding, and paragliding.
