Himachal Pradesh Tour - Price, Itinerary, Best Time & Things to Do

Himachal Pradesh is a gorgeous north-Indian state with several famous tourist destinations, especially for youngsters and newlyweds. Blessed with fast-flowing streams, snow-laden mountains, and lush green valleys, Himachal’s scenic beauty is a treat to the eyes. And apart from the beautiful landscape, there is more that the state offers - adventure sports.

Himachal Pradesh offers a lot to visitors - its adventure sports, serene landscape, and picturesque beauty are a treat for voyagers. Located in the western Himalayas, the north-Indian state has numerous hill stations that are among the most popular tourist destinations. And the reason for their rising popularity lies in their pleasant weather - summers in Himachal are greatly pleasing. At this time of the year, other parts of the country experience scorching heat, which makes people travel to the state for a delightful time, especially during the months of April to June.

So if you have plans of traveling to the state this year as well, let us share with you some things that you must know beforehand. These include the places you must visit and the activities you should perform during your vacation. Most luxury tour packages in Himachal Pradesh comprise these.

Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh

Shimla – The capital of Himachal, famous for its colonial architecture, Mall Road, and beautiful hilltop views.
Manali – A popular destination for adventure sports, like skiing and paragliding, and home to stunning spots like Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass.
Spiti Valley – A remote and stunning desert mountain valley, known for its monasteries, unique landscapes, and high-altitude treks.
Kullu – A peaceful valley, famous for its temples, apple orchards, and adventure activities like rafting and trekking.
Dharamshala – Known for its Tibetan culture, the Dalai Lama’s residence, and scenic landscapes with views of the Dhauladhar mountains.
Kasauli – A small and charming hill station with colonial charm, quiet walks, and beautiful vistas.
Dalhousie – A serene hill station with stunning views of the Himalayas, lush green meadows, and peaceful surroundings.
Chamba – Famous for its temples, natural beauty, and the historic Chamba town with its ancient architecture.
Tirthan Valley – A hidden gem for nature lovers, offering beautiful treks, riverside camping, and untouched natural beauty.
Narkanda – A small hill station perfect for skiing in winter and enjoying apple orchards in summer.

Top Things to Do in Himachal Pradesh

Trekking – Trekking is one of the popular activities to experience in Himachal Pradesh. There are some famous treks like Hampta Pass, Triund Trek, Kheerganga, and Spiti valley.
Paragliding – Adventurous paragliding in Bir Biling, known as one of the best destinations for paragliding in the world.
Skiing – Skiing and Snowboarding in Solang Valley, Manali, or Kullu during the winter season is a thrilling and adventurous activity.
River Rafting – Tirthan river and Beas river is one of the best rivers to try water rafting in Himachal Pradesh.
Visit Monasteries – The Namgyal Monastery and Key Monastery sets the amazing example of Buddhist monasteries in Dharamshala and Spiti Valley.
Camping – Don't miss the opportunity to stay in Camps to enhance your experience and remember the stargazing in Tirthan Valley, Kheerganga Solang Valley, or Chandratal.
Visit Temples – Temples in Himachal Pradesh are worth visiting. Seek the blessings for your happy journey. The famous temples are the Jwala Ji Temple, Hadimba Temple, and Baijnath Temple for a spiritual experience.
Mountain Biking – Paradise for Professional Bike Riders. Experience actual offbeat rides in Manali, Shimla, and Dalhousie and enjoy the serene beauty of the Himalayas.
Explore Himachali Culture – Explore the traditional villages and visit the local markets. Don't forget to taste the authentic Himachali cuisine.
Horse Riding – Horse rides in the meadows of Manali, Shimla, and Narkanda will be the best experience of your life. Enjoy the rides, which are enriching with stunning views of valleys.

If you are in for an exciting experience in the state, you must consider adventure tour packages in Himachal Pradesh. But before you do, we would like you to know about the most common activities that tourists prefer. This will help you choose the right package. So are you ready? Let’s delve right into the details before you dive the serenity of Himachal.

Trekking in Himachal Pradesh

One of the most exciting adventures is trekking. Several groups of trekkers as well as solo travelers come here for trekking since Himachal Pradesh has some of the best trails. The gorgeous views and lofty mountains make the trekking experience even more valuable. There are several trails going through dense forests that are enclosed by rivulets and snow-laden mountains. There are 270 trails in the state that you can choose from.

Camping while Trekking

A popular outdoor activity in the state is camping, especially popular among trekkers. Tourists from across the globe come here for the experience of base camp or camping while staying in a tent. It is the perfect way to absorb everything the state has to offer - the serene atmosphere, views of star-filled night skies, clear blue skies in the morning, and lush green meadows. You can also perform aqua zorbing while camping, which is one of the less explored adventure activities in Himachal Pradesh.

Rock Climbing

If you are up for a challenge, we recommend you try rock climbing. It requires fitness and great physical stamina, which is why it is not everyone’s cup of tea. The cliffs, rocks, and hills of Himachal make it the perfect place for performing the activity. A majority of the rock climbing spots are in Manali since it is home to the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports. This means that if you perform the sport in Manali, you’ll be guided by some of the best instructors in the country.

Paragliding
Are you interested in an adrenaline rush? We have a perfect idea - paragliding! Life is too short and such experiences make it worth living. So are you ready for a wonderful adventure in Solang Valley? The key highlights are lofty, snow-covered mountains, lush meadows, and serene landscapes. Besides, if the views are already so beautiful, can you imagine how mesmerizing they will be when you are flying in the air?

Final Word
Himachal Pradesh offers tourists the option of choosing from a wide array of activities. Since your time here will be limited, we have shared the top things to do in Himachal Pradesh. Thank us after you have performed some or most of these sports. We are sure you will have an amazing time.

Famous Tourist Places in Himachal Pradesh

Gifted with lofty mountains and gorgeous river valleys, Himachal Pradesh is a must-visit place for everyone. From trekking in the mountains of Spiti to rock climbing on Kinnaur’s dangerous terrains, Himachal sure has some of the best experiences for everyone. In fact, irrespective of the people you are traveling with, there are some famous tourist places in Himachal Pradesh that you cannot miss. Not sure what these could be? Keep reading to find out. Khajjiar Lake Khajjiar, commonly known as the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’, has some of the most beautiful views. And Khajjiar Lake is one of its most stunning attractions. Located in Dalhousie, the place has an elevation of 1920 meters. You don’t even have to think about what to do here - you can simply linger and take in the serenity of the place. Nonetheless, you can perform several activities such as paragliding, horse riding, and zorbing. Besides, you will also get to view the majestic Mount Kailash. Shimla The capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla, is a clear representation of beauty. Thousands of tourists visit every year to this popular hill station. As a matter of fact, it is the perfect blend of British sophistication and Indian glory. The pleasant climate throughout the year combined with mesmerizing landscape make it one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. You can go shopping at Mall Road, try Polo at Annandale, and visit Viceregal Lodge for a glimpse into British elegance. And if you are a Hindu devotee, we recommend you take a trek to Jakhu Hill and visit the famous temple of Lord Hanuman. Kasauli Are you visiting Himachal Pradesh for the sole purpose of staying away from the hustle and bustle of the busy cities? If so, you must visit Kasauli - its serene atmosphere will give you exactly what you need. The best part is that the place has everything for all kinds of travelers. If you are looking for an adventure, take the Gilbert Trail. If all you want to do is relax and enjoy the beauty, go to the sunrise and sunset points. And if you’re interested in a bit of history, go to the Anglican Church, a monument built during the British era. Malana Looking for a digital detox? There’s no place better than Malana. Located near the Kullu Valley, this place offers breathtaking views of the Chandrakhani and Deo Tiba crests. Whether you are a trekker or a solo traveler, this place is going to offer you the experience of a lifetime. And while you’re at it, we recommend you visit Manikaran gurudwara - the hot water spring is something you won’t be able to leave. The Bottom Line There are numerous sightseeing & tourist attractions in Himachal Pradesh, which is why it may be difficult for you to pick places to visit, especially if you are on a short vacation. This is why, to make it easier for you, we shared some of the best tourist destinations. We hope you will enjoy your stay in Himachal.

Khajjiar Lake

Khajjiar, commonly known as the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’, has some of the most beautiful views. And Khajjiar Lake is one of its most stunning attractions. Located in Dalhousie, the place has an elevation of 1920 meters. You don’t even have to think about what to do here - you can simply linger and take in the serenity of the place. Nonetheless, you can perform several activities such as paragliding, horse riding, and zorbing. Besides, you will also get to view the majestic Mount Kailash.

Shimla

The capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla, is a clear representation of beauty. Thousands of tourists visit every year to this popular hill station. As a matter of fact, it is the perfect blend of British sophistication and Indian glory. The pleasant climate throughout the year combined with mesmerizing landscape make it one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh.

You can go shopping at Mall Road, try Polo at Annandale, and visit Viceregal Lodge for a glimpse into British elegance. And if you are a Hindu devotee, we recommend you take a trek to Jakhu Hill and visit the famous temple of Lord Hanuman.

Kasauli

Are you visiting Himachal Pradesh for the sole purpose of staying away from the hustle and bustle of the busy cities? If so, you must visit Kasauli - its serene atmosphere will give you exactly what you need. The best part is that the place has everything for all kinds of travelers.

If you are looking for an adventure, take the Gilbert Trail. If all you want to do is relax and enjoy the beauty, go to the sunrise and sunset points. And if you’re interested in a bit of history, go to the Anglican Church, a monument built during the British era.

Malana

Looking for a digital detox? There’s no place better than Malana. Located near the Kullu Valley, this place offers breathtaking views of the Chandrakhani and Deo Tiba crests. Whether you are a trekker or a solo traveler, this place is going to offer you the experience of a lifetime. And while you’re at it, we recommend you visit Manikaran gurudwara - the hot water spring is something you won’t be able to leave.

The Bottom Line

There are numerous sightseeing & tourist attractions in Himachal Pradesh, which is why it may be difficult for you to pick places to visit, especially if you are on a short vacation. This is why, to make it easier for you, we shared some of the best tourist destinations. We hope you will enjoy your stay in Himachal.

Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Himachal Pradesh

The north-Indian state of Himachal Pradesh is the perfect blend of the modern and traditional world. It consists of numerous stunning water bodies, ancient monasteries and temples, lush green valleys, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, hill stations, mouthwatering delicacies, adventurous sports, and street shopping. This means that there are numerous things to do here. Now if you are wondering what these activities could be, think no more. In this blog, we have shared some of the top activities that you can perform during your vacation here.

Heli-Skiing at Hanuman Tibba

If you are traveling during the winter season, heli-skiing at Hanuman Tibba is a must. The snow-covered mountains here make the activity even more stunning - you get to see the spellbinding views while performing this thrilling sport. What’s more, a helicopter is utilized for the downhill process, which means getting to experience this wonderful place from an aerial view.

Shopping in McLeodGanj

Are you looking for gifts to purchase for your friends and family? Add shopping to the itinerary on the day you will be spending in McLeodGanj. The place is famous for its handloom crafts and works. And if you are an antiques-lover, you might even get yourself a souvenir. You can purchase a wide variety of things, such as Tibetan handicrafts, Buddha statues, vibrant notebooks, singing bowls, and handcrafted diaries. You can also look for handmade carpets, rugs, paper, and paintings.

Fishing in Rohru

One of the most popular activities in Himachal is fishing due to the large freshwater bodies. And one way to experience the Himachali culture is by going fishing in Rohru. Located on the banks of the Pabbar river, the place offers numerous opportunities to fishing enthusiasts. It is popular for the production of the rainbow and brown trout fish. So after waiting for some time, or even hours, when you finally catch a fish, your happiness will be unmatchable.

Enjoy the Tibetan Opera in Dharamshala

During your visit to Dharamshala, apart from paying a visit to pilgrim centers, you can enjoy the Tibetan Opera. In fact, the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts was established in August 1959 and since then, it is popular for encouraging and conserving TIbet’s culture and art. Lhamo or Tibetan Opera is the key highlight of this center. The 9-day-long celebration takes place in March and is ideal for all kinds of visitors.

Try Golf at Naldehra Golf Course

Last but not least, we advise you to try golfing at Naldehra Golf Course. Located on the tall cedars, it is a 9-hole course that is enclosed by an orchard of deodars. And the best thing about golfing here is that even if you end up finding out that you are not so good at the sport, you can always stop and enjoy the scenic beauty. After all, the lush green meadows and distant mountains make the view stunning. What’s more, there are no charges except for the green fee that you will have to pay for entering the course. Also, you can rent balls, golf sets, and caddies.

FAQs About Himachal Pradesh

Q1.
What is Himachal Pradesh famous for?

Himachal Pradesh is famous for its scenic hill stations, adventure activities, temples, Tibetan culture, apple orchards, and vibrant festivals.
Q2.
Which are the top tourist places in Himachal Pradesh?

Popular destinations include Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, Dalhousie, Spiti Valley, Kasol, Kullu, Kinnaur, and Chamba.
Q3.
What is the best time to visit Himachal Pradesh?

March to June is ideal for sightseeing, July to September for lush greenery, and December to February for snowfall and winter sports.
Q4.
How can I reach Himachal Pradesh?

You can reach Himachal via road, train, or air. The major airports are in Shimla, Kullu (Bhuntar), and Kangra (Gaggal). The Kalka-Shimla toy train is also a popular route.
Q5.
Which is the most beautiful hill station in Himachal Pradesh?

Manali, Shimla, Dharamshala, Dalhousie, and Kasauli are among the most beautiful hill stations in the state.
Q6.
Which are the best places for adventure activities in Himachal?

Himachal offers trekking, river rafting, paragliding (Bir Billing), skiing (Solang Valley), and camping in places like Spiti, Manali, and Kullu
Q7.
Is Himachal Pradesh safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Himachal Pradesh is generally safe for solo travelers, including women, with friendly locals and a low crime rate.
Q8.
What is the altitude of Himachal Pradesh?

The altitude varies from 350 meters (plains) to over 6,500 meters in high-altitude regions like Spiti and Lahaul.
Q9.
Where can I see snowfall in Himachal Pradesh?

Manali, Kufri, Narkanda, Kinnaur, Spiti Valley, and Dalhousie receive heavy snowfall during December to February.
Q10.
What is the local cuisine of Himachal Pradesh?

Popular dishes include Dham, Chana Madra, Sidu, Babru, Chha Gosht, and Tudkiya Bhath, along with locally made Chhang (fermented drink).
Q11.
Which are the most famous temples in Himachal Pradesh?

Famous temples include Jwala Devi, Naina Devi, Hadimba Temple, Bhimakali Temple, and Baijnath Temple.
Q12.
What are the best trekking routes in Himachal?

Popular treks include Triund Trek, Hampta Pass, Pin Parvati, Beas Kund, Kheerganga, and Bhrigu Lake Trek.
Q13.
Which is better for a honeymoon—Shimla or Manali?

Both are great, but Shimla offers colonial charm, while Manali is best for adventure, snow activities, and scenic beauty.
Q14.
Which rivers flow through Himachal Pradesh?

Major rivers include the Beas, Ravi, Chenab, Sutlej, and Yamuna, originating from glaciers in the Himalayas.
Q15.
Is Himachal Pradesh good for a family vacation?

Yes, Himachal is perfect for families with its pleasant weather, family-friendly attractions, and adventure activities.
Q16.
Where can I go paragliding in Himachal Pradesh?

Bir Billing is one of the best paragliding sites in the world, offering breathtaking aerial views.
Q17.
Which national parks are in Himachal Pradesh?

Famous national parks include Great Himalayan National Park, Pin Valley National Park, and Inderkilla National Park.
Q18.
What is the best way to travel within Himachal Pradesh?

Buses, taxis, and private vehicles are commonly used. The toy train and ropeways also provide scenic travel options.
Q19.
Can I visit Spiti Valley in winter?

Yes, but Spiti Valley remains extremely cold (-20°C) in winter, and roads via Kunzum Pass remain closed. The only route is via Kinnaur.
Q20.
What are the major fairs and festivals of Himachal Pradesh?

Important festivals include Kullu Dussehra, Minjar Fair, Lavi Fair, Losar Festival, and Fagli Festival.
Q21.
Is there snowfall in Shimla?

Yes, Shimla receives snowfall from December to February, especially in Kufri and Narkanda.
Q22.
Can I see Tibetan culture in Himachal Pradesh?

Yes, places like Dharamshala, McLeod Ganj, and Spiti Valley have strong Tibetan influences, with monasteries and Buddhist settlements.
Q23.
Where can I enjoy apple orchards in Himachal Pradesh?

Visit Kotkhai, Rohru, Kinnaur, and Manali during apple harvest season (August-September) for a delightful experience.
Q24.
What should I pack for a Himachal Pradesh trip?

Pack warm clothes, trekking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, rain gear, and medicine for high altitudes.
Q25.
Can I rent a bike in Himachal Pradesh?

Yes, you can rent bikes in Manali, Dharamshala, and Shimla for local sightseeing or adventure trips.
Q26.
What souvenirs can I buy in Himachal Pradesh?

Buy woolen shawls (Kullu, Kinnauri), wooden handicrafts, Tibetan jewelry, Kangra paintings, and organic fruit products.