Widely known for extraordinarily beautiful hill stations and Himalayan landscape, Himachal Pradesh serves as one of the hubs of top attractions in the country. The state experiences an amazing hike in tourists every year, and the reasons are enormous. Himachal offers spectacular sightseeing spots, glorious culture, mouth-watering food, and exciting outdoor activities such as heli-skiing, rafting, ice-skating, mountain biking, trekking, paragliding, rock climbing, and more. Himachal is home to some of the most popular destinations in the world, like - Shimla, Dharamsala, Chamba, Manali, Kullu, Kasol, Dalhousie, Spiti Valley, Kangra, and more. With so many activities and destinations to explore, here is the list of the 10 best places to visit in Himachal for your next vacation.

Top 10 places to visit in Himachal

Let’s begin!

1. Shimla

The capital city of Himachal is a beautiful place to start from. Shimla portrays a great combination of British India and modern India. Shimla is situated at the height of 2200 meters and offers several delightful destinations to visit and activities to enjoy, such as:

Things to do in Shimla:

• You can try skiing in Kufri.
• Trek to Jakhu Hill
• Enjoy the aerial view from the Jakhu ropeway.
• Book and take a Kalka Shimla Toy Train ride
• Glide in the snow, and try ice skating for the real thrill.
• Try polo at Annandale.
• Go for paragliding to let yourself feel free in the air.

Nearby famous places Shimla:

The Ridge, Mall Road, Kufri, Green Valley, Jakhu Temple, Viceregal Lodge, Shimla Christ Church, Himalayan Bird Park, Himachal State Museum, Rothney Castle, Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary, Kali Bari Temple, Chadwick Falls, Tara Devi Temple, Lakkar Bazar and more.

How to reach Shimla:

• The nearest railway station is Kalka.
• Kullu is located 117 kilometers from Chandigarh, 260 kilometers from Manali, and 343 kilometers from Delhi.

Famous restaurants in Shimla:

• Ashiana: Ridge, The Mall, Longwood
• Cafe Sol: The Mall, Next to the Tourist Lift, Next to the Tourist Lift, Shimla 
• Cecil Restaurant: The Oberoi Cecil, Nabha, State Museum Road, Longwood 
• Wake & Bake: 34/2, The Mall Shimla, Teh. & Amp Distt, Shimla Municipal Corporation, Summer Hill, Shimla
• Indian Coffee House: 1, Mall Rd, Lower Bazar, Shimla
• Himachali Rasoi: 54, Middle Bazar, Down From The Fire Station Stairs, The Mall, Summer Hill, Shimla 

2. Dharamshala

Dharamshala is famous for being home to the Dalai Lama. The city presents a beautiful combination of Indo-Tibetean culture. It is located in Kangra district on the foothills of the Dhauladhar ranges. This city has always been known as a center of meditation and peace and attracts travelers from everywhere to search for nirvana, representing Buddhism's final goal. Dharamshala is separated into lower and upper divisions, where the lower division is Dharamshala itself, and the upper division (3 kilometers) is well known as Mcleodganj.

Things to do in Dharamshala:

• Boat ride across Dal Lake
• Visit a tea plantation in Kangra Valley for a refreshing walk.
• Shop unique items at a reasonable rate at Jogiwara Road and Kotwali Bazaar.
• Trek to Triund and Bhagsu Falls
• Try paragliding and feel like a bird.

Nearby famous places in Dharamshala:

Kangra Fort, Bhagsunath Temple, Kangra Art Museum, Dalai Lama Temple Complex, Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, St. John in the Wilderness Church, Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, War Memorial, Gyuto Monastery, Bhagsunag Temple, Dal Lake, Tibet Museum, Bhagsu Fall, Masroor Rock Cut Temple, Naam Art Gallery and more.

How to reach Dharamshala:

• The nearest railway station is Pathankot (85 km away)
• Dharamshala is 520 km away from Delhi.

Famous restaurants in Dharamshala:

• One of the Blue Italian Pizzeria: Dharamkot Village, Opp to Vipassana Center, Dharamshala, 176219
• Taste of India: Mcleodganj Homestay, Flourishing Flora, Opposite TIPA Gate, Dharamkot Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala
• Ride and Rolls BBQ Village: House No-294, Ward No-6, near City Library, Ram Nagar, Dharamshala
• Illiterati: Jogiwara Rd, Dharamshala

• Shiva Drink & Dine: Palampur - Dharamshala Rd, near D.C.Office, Civil Bazar, Dharamshala

• Peace House: Gamru Village Rd, Sudhir, Dharamshala

3. Mcleodganj

About 3 kilometers uphill from Dharamshala, there lies a spectacular Mcleodganj, also referred to as Little Lhasa. This place pictures a beautiful blend of Indo-Tibetean culture and British influence. Mcleodganj is home to monasteries like - Namgyal Monastery and Tsuglagkhang, which is the residential place of the spiritual leader Dalai Lama. Blessed with greenery and a unique landscape, this city attracts trekkers from all over the world for a fantastic experience. 

Things to do in Mcleodganj:

• Take a boat ride in Dal Lake.
• Explore local markets and nearby destinations like monasteries and temples for tranquillity.
• You can try Paragliding and Camping in the city.
• Trek towards Laka Glacier Trek or the Snow Line Trek from Mcleodgang

Nearby famous places in Mcleodganj:

Bhagsu Falls, Namgyal Monastery, Dal Lake, Bhagsunag Temple, Illiterati Books & Cafe, Norbulingka Institute, Kangra Fort, Tibetan Museum, Minkiani Pass, Gallu Devi Waterfall, Thekchen Chöling Temple, Naddi View Point, and more.

How to reach Mcleodganj:

• The nearest railway station is Pathankot (90 km away)
• You can reach Mcleodganj by road via a private car or bus, they will drop you off at the Mcleodganj bus stand, and from there, you can start your expedition.

Famous restaurant in Mcleodganj:

• Four Seasons Cafe: Jogiwara Road, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Dist. Kangra, Himachal Pradesh - 176219
• Ashoka International Restaurant: Forsyth Ganj-Mcleod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh, India
• Unity Bistro & Pizza House: Upper Bhagsu Nag, After Himalayan Adventures, 2nd Restaurant on the Right, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala 176219
• Taste of India: Mcleodganj Homestay at the Flourishing Flora, opposite Tipa, Dharamkot Road, Mcleodganj
• Namgyal Cafe: Nowrojee Road, OM Hotel, Small Lane on the Right of Temple Road, McLeod Ganj
• Jimmy's Italian Kitchen: Jogiwara Road, Mcleod Ganj, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala. 

4. Manali

One of the most popular and frequently traveled destinations in Himachal is Manali, which is known to present magnificent views of the Pir Panjal and the Dhauladhar ranges. Manali offers numerous trekking opportunities, including trekking towards Beas Kund, Pin Parvati, Spiti Valley, Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, and more. Along with that, there are many outdoor sports that you can participate in the city.

Things to do in Manali:

• Visit Manali Bird Sanctuary
• Participate in aero sports such as Paragliding.

• Try angling & river rafting in Kullu.
• Camp and Trek towards Beas Kund, Pin Parvati, Hampta Pass, Spiti Valley, Rohtang Pass, and more. 
• Explore the thrills of Zorbing, Horse-riding, and skiing in the city.

Nearby famous places in Manali:

Hadimba Temple, Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Old Manali, Jogini Waterfall, Vashisht Temple, Manu Temple, Bhrigu Lake, Arjun Gufa, Van Vihar National Park, Sethan Valley, Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa, Kothi Village, Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art, Gulaba, Manali Sanctuary, Jagatsukh, and more.

How to reach Manali:

• The nearest airport is Chandigarh (252 km away)
• The nearest railway station is Chandigarh (270 km away)

Famous restaurant in Manali:

• Cafe 1947: BPO Bahang, Leh- Manali Highway, Nehru Kund, Tibetan Colony, Manali  
• Vibes: Opposite Van Vihar, Mall Road, Manali, Aleo, Manali
• Chopsticks: Manali Mall Market, Mall Road, Aleo, Manali
• Renaissance: Manu Temple Road, Old Manali
• Manali Sweets: Siyali Mahadev market, Manali
• Lazy Dog Lounge: Manu Temple Road, Old Manali, Manali 

5. Kasauli

Kasauli is often called the gateway to the Himalayas as it is located on the way to Shimla from Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Chandigarh. Kasauli may not have a magnificent landscape, but it does have Victorian Villas from the British period and serene locations for camping. Kasauli is located in the Solan district of Himachal among the dense forests of Chir Pine, Milk Thistle, and Cedar Trees.

Things to do in Kasauli:

• You can camp, walk, and explore the peaceful Gilbert Trail.
• Spend your dusk and dawn watching the sunshine.
• Trek on the lower mall towards Monkey Hill.

Nearby famous places in Kasauli:

Monkey Point, Mall Road, Gilbert Trail, Sunset Point, Christ (Anglican) Church, Baptist Church, Timber Trail, Gurkha Fort, Gurudwara, and more.

How to reach Kasauli:

• The nearest airport is in Chandigarh (70km away)
• The nearest railway station is Sonwara (4km away)
• Kasauli is 293 kilometers away from Delhi by road.

Famous restaurant in Kasauli:

• Hangout Rooftop Bar and Cafe: Hotel Kasauli Regency, Village Kimmughat, Garkhal, Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh,173204
• Narinder Sweet House: Lower Mall Road, Kasauli Market, Kasauli, India 
• NH 22 Dhaba: Village Sooji, Near Jabli, Opp. Surya Rockrose Resort, Kasauli 173209, India 

6. Kasol

Kasol, a village, is the 'Amsterdam of India' and is situated 23 kilometers from Bhuntar and next to Manikaran on the bank of river Parvati. Kasol is famous for providing the best trekking destinations, such as Kheerganga, Yanker Pass, Sar Pass, and Pin Parvati Pass. This amazing village is widely inhabited by people from Israel, which is the reason for the Israeli touch in the region in terms of food and culture. Overall, Kasol is a beautiful experience to cherish for a lifetime and is a preferred place for backpackers and trekkers.

Things to do in Kasol:

• Trekking is the extreme and main activity you can enjoy here in Kasol. 

• From Kasol, you can trek towards Kheerganga, Parvati Valley, or the so-called - Stoners Paradise, and more.
• Kasol hosts the Summer Hills Festival in June and the Indrasan Festival in the last week of May almost every year.
• Many spots in the city offer a unique camping experience under the blue sky.

Nearby famous places in Kasol:

Parvati River, Chalal, Malana, Tosh, Manikaran Gurudwara, Magic Valley, Sar Pass, Flea Market, Kheerganga, Yanker Pass, and more.

How to reach Kasol:

• The nearest airport is Kullu.

• The nearest railway station is Shimla.

• Kasol is 381 kilometers away from Shimla by road.

Famous restaurant in Kasol:

• Evergreen: Parvati Valley, Manikaran Marg, Kasol, Himachal Pradesh-175105
• Little Italy: Manikaran Rd, Kasol, Himachal Pradesh 175105, India
• Jim Morrison Cafe: Jim Morrison lane, Manikaran Road Opposite Hotel Sandhya, behind Sun n wind hotel, Kasol, Himachal Pradesh 175105, India
• Buddha Place: Manikaran Rd, Kasol, Himachal Pradesh 175105
• Stone Garden Cafe: V.P.O Kasol, Kasol, Himachal Pradesh 175105
• Shanti Cafe: Chalal, Kasol

7. Dalhousie

A hill station and the city of Himachal, famous for waterfalls, forests, and meadows, is yet another popular destination among backpackers, travelers, and honeymooners. It is also called the Little Switzerland of India and represents the Scottish and Victorian-era architecture in its streets. Dalhousie is located at a height of 1970 meters and was named after Lord Dalhousie.

Things to do in Dalhousie:

• Experience the walk or trek on Dainkund, Ganji Pahari, Bakrota, and more.
• Explore the historical places in the region.
• Camp under the sky and live the glory of Mother Earth, 1970 meters above sea level.
• Rafting in river Ravi or Saal.
• Paragliding and Rock climbing at nearby Khajjiar.

Nearby famous places in Dalhousie:

Panchpula, Khajjiar, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Satdhara Falls, Ganji Pahari Trek, Chamera Lake, Dainkund Peak, St. John's Church, Subash Baoli, Sach Pass, Rock Garden, Indo-Tibetean Market, St. Patrick's Church, Bakrota Hills, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Chamunda Devi Temple, St Francis Church, Bhuri Singh Museum, Pohlani Devi Temple, and more.

How to reach Dalhousie:

• The nearest airport is Dharamshala.
• The nearest railway station is Pathankot's Chakki Bank (71km away)

Famous restaurant in Dalhousie:

• Moti Mahal Delux: Mall Road, Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh, India 
• Cafe Dalhousie: MDR 49, Dalhousie 
• Kwality Restaurant: MDR49 Moti Tiba Gandhi Chowk, Dalhousie 
• Friends Sher e Punjab Restaurant:  Subhash Chowk, Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh 176304
• illusion Lounge Bar: JK Clarks Exotica Dalhousie, Church Balloon Road, Moti Tiba, Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh 176304
• Bon Appetit Bakes Fries Grills Roasts Restaurant: The Mall, Gandhi Chowk, Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh 176304

8. Bir Billing

Bir Billing is an extremely popular destination located in the Joginder Nagar Valley of Himachal for its sports activities, such as Paragliding and Trekking, and peaceful Meditation practices. Paragliding experience in this city is world-renowned; the journey starts from Bir and ends at Billing, while the altitude changes by 800 meters. 

Things to do in Bir Billing:

• Experience the magnificent beauty of the Himalayas from an aerial view with Paragliding.
• Talk a walk through Palampur Tea Cooperative.
• Explore the Buddhist monasteries in the Bhattu, Choggan, and Chauntra Bhattu colonies.

Nearby famous places in Bir Billing:

Bir Market, Dharmalaya Institute, Chokling Monastery, Gunehar Waterfalls, Deer Park Institute, Baijnath Temple, Bangoru Waterfall, Tsering Jong Monastery, and more.

How to reach Bir Billing:

• The closest airport to Bir is Dharamshala Airport.

• The closest railhead is Pathankot; from there, you can reach Bir via roadways.

9. Chamba

Chamba is famous for offering views of the Pir Panjal, Zanskar, and Dhauladhar ranges. This small town of Himachal is well known for its temples, caves, and Indian history. Chamba is located at an elevation of 996 meters on the banks of river Ravi. The city is also famous for its traditional handicrafts, art, and miniature Pahari paintings. 

Things to do in Chamba:

• Explore the beautiful nearby places for peace and a restful vacation.

Nearby famous places in Chamba:

Chamera Lake, Manimahesh Lake, Lakshmi Narayan Temple, The Himachal Emporium - Rang Mahal, Bhuri Singh Museum, Hariraya Temple, Akhand Chandi Palace, Champavati Temple, Hadsar Waterfall, Thala Waterfall, Hari Rai Temple, and more.

How to reach Chamba:

• The nearest airport is Jammu.
• The nearest railway station is at Pathankot, and buses and a cab facility will take you to Chamba.

10. Nahan

An intact hill station settled in the sky-high Shivalik range is a mesmerizing Nahan for an ideal holiday to a new destination in India. A small town with forests, clean roads, gardens, temples, and a manmade lake is a perfect romantic getaway.

Things to do in Nahan:

• Explore the infamous fort and lakes in the surrounding area.
• Nahan is a destination for those who love peace and a restful vacation away from city culture.

Nearby famous places in Nahan:

Renuka Lake, Suketi Fossil Park, Jaitak Fort, Rani Tal, Churdhar Peak, Dhaula Kuan, Simbalbara Wildlife Sanctuary, Renuka Wildlife Park, Sirmouri Tal or Rajbans, Giri Nagar, Kangojodi, and more.

How to reach Nahan:

• The nearest airport is Chandigarh.
• The nearest railway station is Barara (60km away)
• Nahan is the nearest hill station to Delhi (250km away)

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FAQ

Which part of Himachal is most beautiful?

The Kinnaur region in Himachal Pradesh is often regarded as the most beautiful, known for its stunning valleys, apple orchards, and the majestic Kinnaur Kailash range.

Which place is most visited in Himachal Pradesh?

Manali is the most visited place in Himachal Pradesh, attracting tourists with its scenic beauty, adventure activities, and proximity to attractions like Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley.

What is the famous thing of Himachal Pradesh?

Himachal Pradesh is famous for its handwoven woolen shawls, particularly from Kullu, along with its scenic landscapes, temples, and vibrant cultural festivals.

Which is the coldest place to visit in Himachal Pradesh?

Spiti Valley is the coldest place in Himachal Pradesh, known for its high-altitude deserts, ancient monasteries, and temperatures that can drop significantly below freezing, especially in winter.

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