Planning a trip to Himachal? Check Out These Places

Burning up in the summer sun? Longing for cooler and more pleasant climes? Or, perhaps, snow and snow sports are more your thing. Either way, the perfect place to satisfy any of these cravings is Himachal Pradesh. Himachal means ‘land of snow’. The name gives it all away.

I speak from personal experience when I tell you that the wonders of Himachal Pradesh are definitely worth exploring. I lived in the capital city of Shimla for four years and haven’t regretted a single minute of that stay.

If you’re wondering what places you need to visit, worry no more. Let ShoutLo take you around some of the best tourist places in himachal to visit.

Shimla

Not for nothing did the British decide to make this lovely town their summer capital. Not only is it surrounded by beautiful mountains and lovely forests, but also provides the perfect summer getaway thanks to the fact that it is located 2200 metres above sea level. Shimla is a fascinating blend of Indian traditions and colonial sophistication. The city is planned in a manner that is both aesthetically pleasing and well planned. Visit Mall Road and the Ridge, soak in the Institute of Advanced Studies, take a ride on the Toy Train and pay your respects at Jakhu Temple. You can also use the town as a base to make forays into Kufri, Chail, Narkanda and Naldehra amongst other places. Shimla is a place that has something for everyone.

Manali

This picturesque town is situated 1908 meters above sea level and is the destination of choice for families, but most especially for honeymooners. It has a quaint charm that is thrown into relief by the majestic mountains and deep forests that provide a backdrop. You can go into town and sit on the banks of the river Beas, which flows through the town. You can use it as a base to go to Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass. If you are the adventurous type, you can go hiking, skiing, trekking, white water rafting and paragliding among other things. For those interested in cultural destinations, there are the Jagannathi Devi temple and the Raghunath temple. Otherwise, just sit back, relax and unwind in this charming town.

Dalhousie

Dalhousie has also been called ‘Little Switzerland of India’ and with good reason. Its colonial roots show through clearly in the mansions left behind by the British. Even its name is taken from that of a former British Governor General. That old world charm contrasts wonderfully with its serene natural beauty. This is where you come to get away from the hustle and bustle of cities and the rat race of daily life. You can visit the valley of Khajjar or trek in one of three beautiful walks – Ganji Pahadi, Dainkund and Bakrota – or even enjoy a spiritual experience by going to St. John’s Church which is the oldest church in town. Take your time and enjoy everything this breathtaking place has to offer.

McLeodganj

This little town, just a few miles away from Dharamsala, is well-known as Little Lhasa and is the home of the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan spiritual leader. It offers an intriguing combination of Tibetan culture and colonial influences. Surrounded by lush greenery and majestic mountains, McLeodganj is home to the Tibetans who fled after China annexed their homeland. From here you can visit Kangra, Dharamsala and Bhagsu Nag. Some of the most prominent Buddhist monasteries are also located here, so make sure to take time out to visit them. Two monasteries that you can’t miss are Tsuglagkhang and Namgyal Monastery. Tsuglagkhang is where the Dalai Lama lives. Other attractions are Triund and the Dal Lake.

These places only scratch the surface of all that Himachal Pradesh has to offer. Take your time and explore it in one shot or come back again and again. Either way, you will not be disappointed.

Have you been to Himachal Pradesh? Share your experiences in the comments below.