Himachal Pradesh Tourism: A detailed Guide for Family Trip To Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh, which means 'the snow-laden land', is situated on the western side of the Himalayas. It makes for the perfect place to visit with your family, not just for leisure, but for lots of adventure as well. There are many things to do

It is home to snow-covered peaks, breath-taking valleys and bustling rivers providing the option to choose from a vast array of possible activities including, but not limited to, trekking, horse riding, mountain biking, skiing, ice skating, paragliding, rafting, and fishing. When planning a trip with your family, you can choose from the many places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, depending on the adventure you want to explore together as a family.

Also Read: In Search of Snow: 5 Places in India to Experience Snowfall

Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh

Shimla

There are many places to visit in Himachal Pradesh and one of them is Shimla. It is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh and one of the most famous hill stations of northern India. In fact, it was the summer capital of British India, before independence, since it is situated amidst beautiful hills and mystical forests that made for an ideal summer getaway. Shimla is among the few planned cities in India, showcasing examples of vernacular architecture, which makes it one of the famous tourist destinations in Himachal.

Places to Visit: The must-visit attractions in this city include Christ Church, Town Hall, Ridge, Lakkar Bazaar (wood market), Jakhoo temple, the Kali Bari temple and the ice skating rink, which is the largest in South Asia. Shimla is also known for its colonial buildings styled in the Tudor and neo-Gothic style of architecture. There are other nearby places to visit like Kufri, Kasauli, Naldehra, Mashobra, Tattapani, and Narkanda. Located not very far from Shimla, Kandaghat and Chail are also famous tourist spots and are considered as some of the top places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. These popular tourist destinations in Himachal are known for calm and relaxed vacations.

Located in the lap of the Himalayas, Club Mahindra Kandaghat Resort in Himachal Pradesh is among the best options for accommodation around the area. Spread over 14 acres of lush greenery and providing views of beautiful sunsets, the resort never ceases to amaze nature lovers.

Things to Do: Shimla is famous for its toy train (Kalka to Shimla), which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. Shimla also offers a range of adventure sports such as outdoor ice-skating, and has the largest rink in South Asia. Other exciting activities include the Jakhoo Temple trek, Banjar Valley trek, forest camping, mountain biking, skiing, and rock climbing.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Shimla is during April to June and December to January.

How to Reach: One can reach Shimla through the Chandigarh-Shimla highway or catch a train up to Kalka and then either hop on the toy train or get a local taxi. Kalka is around 90kms away from Shimla. There is a helicopter service from Chandigarh to Shimla as well.

There are many resorts near Shimla to suit every budget, but Club Mahindra’s Naldehra Resort is one of the best resorts near Shimla for a memorable stay with family. Despite being away from the crowd, you can enjoy the comforts of modern living while nestling in the lap of nature at Naldehra resort in Himachal Pradesh, surrounded by pine forests and the spectacular Himalayan ranges.

Manali

If you wish to relax in a fairy-tale location in your list of places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, then the hill-station of Manali should be your option! Comprising snow-capped mountains, forests of lofty pine trees, and the gushing Beas River with its abundant natural beauty, Manali is a postcard-perfect holiday destination to head to with your family. It rests between the slopes of Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges, and is one of the favorite tourist places in Himachal Pradesh attracting lakhs of tourists every year, every season.

Places to Visit: The attractions in this city range from historical museums, Buddhist monasteries, famous temples, beautiful orchards, as well as local eateries and markets. The Mall road, Thai market, Hong Kong market, the Tibetan market, and Dragon shopping complex are famous for local shopping, to name a few. Some key places near Manali which are worth a visit include the breathtaking Solang Valley and Kullu valley. Solang Valley is one of the popular skiing places to visit in Himachal Pradesh during winter and a paragliding place during summer season. Kullu valley, which is very popular for its celebrations of festivals like Dussehra and Holi, is home to famous temples like Raghunath Temple, Maha Devi Tirth Temple, and Basheshwar Mahadev Temple.

Things to Do: Manali is home to a plethora of fishing spots (where you can find the famous trout fish) along the rivers- Beas and Tirthan. It is also known for trekking routes such as Hampta Pass, Bhrigu Lake, Deo Tibba Base Camp, and Chanderkhani Pass. Rohtang Pass connects the Lahaul and Kullu valleys and is one of the most famous scenic spots to visit in Manali, while Manikaran is known for its hot springs and Gurudwara. Rohtang Pass is also one of the most famous places to visit in Himachal Pradesh for trekking expeditions.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Manali is during April to June and December to January.

How to Reach: Manali is easily accessible through roads from Delhi and Chandigarh, or you can opt for the flight up to Bhuntar and then catch a local taxi. No direct trains are connected to Manali.

If you are looking for a memorable stay with your family in Manali, then stay at Club Mahindra Manali resort in Himachal Pradesh.

Also Read: 8 Places to Visit in Kasauli

Dharamshala

Famously known as the abode of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan community, Dharamshala is one of the famous tourist places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. It is also known as ‘Little Lhasa of India’, and is located in the Dhauladhar range surrounded by thick deodar and cedar trees. A perfect amalgamation of natural beauty and Tibetan culture, it is an ideal addition to your Himachal trip with family.

Places to Visit: The key attractions near Dharamshala and top places to visit in Himachal Pradesh include Mcleodganj, Bhagsunag Falls, Dharamkot, Kunal Pathri temple, the picturesque Rakkar and the largest Tibetan temple outside the Tibet Tsuglagkhang Complex.

Things to Do: Dharamshala offers a range of opportunities to dive into Tibetan culture. You can choose to learn about Buddhism and explore their cultural and historical heritage, and indulge in some Tibetan cuisine. You can also opt for a one-day trek and camping at Triund.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Dharamshala is during March to June and October to February.

How to Reach: One can reach Dharamshala by road through Pathankot, or you can catch a flight to Gaggal which is the nearest airport at a distance of 15 km.

The beauty of Dharamshala can be best experienced in the Club Mahindra resort there. Club Mahindra offers a host of things to do in Dharamshala – sightseeing, trekking, camping, and adventure sports. There’s an in-house restaurant that serves local delicacies. This resort in Dharamshala is equipped with all modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, laundry, bar, lounge etc. It offers comfortable and spacious rooms for families to relax and enjoy their stay. Read through these Club Mahindra reviews & get a sneak peek of what members have to say about their stay at Club Mahindra resorts in Himachal Pradesh.

Spiti Valley

Situated high in the north-eastern part of Himachal Pradesh, Spiti is a cold desert valley and of the most beautiful places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. It is also considered to be "The Middle Land" between India and Tibet. One might even say that it's a perfect gateway to the snow-clad mountains.

Places to Visit: Spiti valley is home to one of the oldest monasteries in the world - Key Monastery and Tabo Monastery - one of the must places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. It is also known for its spectacular lakes such as Chandratal, Suraj Tal, and Dhankar Lake.

Things to Do: The adventures of this region include trekking along the famous routes - Kaza-Ki-Kibber-Gete-Kaza, Kaza-Langza-Hikim-Komic-Kaza, Kaza-Tabo-Sumdo-Nako, Kaza-Losar-Kunzum La, skiing and yak safari.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Spiti Valley is during the months of May to September.

How to Reach: Because of its remote location in the middle of the mountains, Spiti Valley has no access to rail or air network. The only way to reach Spiti Valley is via road which is connected to both Shimla and Manali.

This “land of Gods” offers many adventures and places to visit therefore justifying your next Himachal trip. It will give you tons of memories and umpteen reasons to visit again. A word of caution - whenever visiting tourist places in Himachal Pradesh, always be careful to check the temperature and carry suitable clothing with you.

Also Read: 8 Best Tourist Places in Solan

FAQs

What are the top sightseeing places in Himachal Pradesh?

Some of the top sightseeing places in Himachal Pradesh include Bir, Kasauli, Spiti Valley, Kufri, Palampur, Mandi, Kangra, Bhuntar, Shoghi, Sangla, Mashobra, Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, etc.

What is famous in Himachal Pradesh?

Himachal Pradesh is famous for a plethora of diverse things ranging from Tibetan culture to adventure activities. Some of the famous things include Buddhist monasteries, snow-clad hills and valleys for trekking and camping, handicrafts and Tibetan momos

Is Himachal Pradesh worth visiting?

Yes, absolutely! Himachal Pradesh is home to some of the most interesting historical monuments and events. What’s more, its local food and culture add to the charm and beauty of the fascinating state. There are numerous places to visit and even more things to do in Himachal Pradesh so you will never have a dull moment!

What are the top activities in Himachal Pradesh?

Paragliding, trekking, camping, ice skating, river rafting, fishing, Tibetan opera, downhill cycling, sightseeing and rock climbing are some of the top activities in Himachal Pradesh.

What food is famous in Himachal Pradesh?

Himachal Pradesh has a unique local cuisine to offer. The vegetation, geographical features and external influences have greatly impacted the food and you are in for a tasty treat! Some of the must-have dishes include Chana Madra, Dham, Kullu Trout Fish, Bhey, Chha Gosht and Mittha.

Is Himachal Pradesh safe at night?

Himachal Pradesh is generally very safe at night but most restaurants, pubs, bars and eateries shut shop early so you have to make sure you are back at the resort so that you don’t wander around in the dark.

How expensive is Himachal Pradesh?

A week long trip in Himachal Pradesh for two people will cost anywhere between 25-30k. It depends on what activities you indulge in, the accommodations you choose and where all are you traveling in Himachal Pradesh.

How many days are enough for Himachal Pradesh?

7-8 days are enough for you to travel and  visit the many wonders that Himachal Pradesh is home to. Every region has its own charm and something unique to offer so to explore them, it will take about a week.

Which area is best to stay in Himachal Pradesh?

Mcleod Ganj, Dalhousie and Manali are some of the best areas to stay in for your family holiday in Himachal Pradesh.

What are the best outdoor activities in Himachal Pradesh?

Himachal Pradesh offers some thrilling and exciting adventure activities that you cannot miss out on. Skiing, ice skating, trekking, camping, river rafting and fishing are outdoor activities that you must try in Himachal Pradesh.

What are the best day trips from Himachal Pradesh?

You can take a toy train ride, take a trip to Kasauli, go on a guided trek in Manali, visit Dharamshala, go on a spiritual tour in Jogeshwar and go sightseeing in Shimla are some of the best day trips in Himachal Pradesh.

What should I buy in Himachal Pradesh?

Kullu shawls, Himachali caps, jams and pickles, metalware, woollen clothes, silver and turquoise jewellery and Tibetan carpets are some things you must buy in Himachal Pradesh.