Dreaming of snow-capped mountains, pine forests, and peaceful hill towns? Himachal Pradesh is a place where nature, adventure, and calm come together to create the perfect escape. From famous hill stations to quiet mountain villages, every corner of this beautiful state has its own magic. Whether you're planning a relaxing family vacation, a romantic trip, or a solo journey to unwind, Himachal offers something for everyone. In this guide by HappyOuting, we’ll take you through the best Himachal Pradesh tour places, travel packages, exciting things to do, local culture, food, and the best times to visit—everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip to the mountains.
Best Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh
From famous hill stations to hidden valleys, there’s no shortage of places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. Whether you’re seeking snow, silence, adventure, or local culture, every destination has its own beauty and charm. Below are some of the most loved and must-visit spots you should definitely add to your travel list:
Shimla—Top Hill Station in North India
Shimla, the Queen of Hills, is one of the most loved and visited hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. Surrounded by pine forests and cool mountain air, this town offers a peaceful yet lively vibe. With its old-world charm, scenic spots, and easy road access, Shimla is perfect for families, couples, and first-time mountain travelers.
Top Attractions in Shimla:
- The Ridge—Stunning open space with mountain views and evening vibes.
- Mall Road—Great for shopping, local cafés, and relaxed strolls.
- Christ Church—Historic church with beautiful Gothic architecture.
- Jakhoo Temple—Hilltop Hanuman temple offering panoramic city views.
- Viceregal Lodge—a British-era building rich in history and architecture.
- Kufri—Just 16 km away, ideal for snow fun, yak rides, and adventure parks.
- Green Valley—A scenic stop between Shimla and Kufri.
- Tara Devi Temple—Surrounded by forest, perfect for peace and views.
Things to Do in Shimla:
- Take the scenic Shimla–Kalka toy train ride.
- Shop for wooden souvenirs at Lakkar Bazaar.
- Enjoy ice skating (Dec–Feb) at the open-air rink.
- Explore the Himalayan Bird Park and Nature Park Kufri.
- Watch sunsets from Scandal Point or walk forest trails.
Hidden Gems in Shimla:
- Summer Hill—Calm and green, perfect for early morning nature walks.
- Chadwick Falls—A quiet waterfall just outside town.
- Potter’s Hill—Ideal for forest camping and photography.
- Sanjauli Market—A local street food spot with fewer tourists.
Local Food to Try in Shimla:
- Chana Madra, Tudkiya Bhat, and Siddu – Traditional Himachali dishes.
- Mittha—Sweet rice with dry fruits, a local delicacy.
- Street foods like momos, bread omelets, and Maggi are must-tries.
- Visit cafés like Wake & Bake, Café Sol, and Indian Coffee House.
Best Time to Visit Shimla:
- March to June – Pleasant weather and sightseeing.
- December to February – For snowfall and winter activities.
- October to November – Peaceful with clear views and a light chill.
Manali—Ideal for Couples & Adventure Lovers
Manali is a top tourist spot in Himachal Pradesh, perfect for couples, families, and adventure lovers. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and the flowing Beas River, this beautiful town offers everything from romance and nature to thrilling experiences.
Top Attractions in Manali:
- Hadimba Temple—Wooden temple surrounded by pine trees.
- Old Manali—Known for its relaxed vibe, cafés, and river walks.
- Solang Valley—Hub for snow fun and adventure sports.
- Manu Temple—Peaceful and spiritual, with lovely views.
- Vashisht Hot Springs—Natural thermal springs and a temple nearby.
- Jogini Waterfall—A short hike leads to this scenic spot.
- Nehru Kund—Freshwater spring ideal for a quiet stop.
- Tibetan Monasteries—Beautifully built and calm places to visit.
Things to Do in Manali:
- Paragliding, skiing, and snowboarding in Solang.
- Snow scooter rides, sledding, and photography at Rohtang Pass.
- Try river rafting in the Beas River.
- Trekking options: Hampta Pass, Bhrigu Lake, and Lama Dugh.
- Relax in cozy cafés or enjoy riverside music in Old Manali.
- Explore Manali Sanctuary for nature and wildlife spotting.
Hidden Gems in Manali:
- Sajla Waterfall—Quieter and more peaceful than popular spots.
- Hamta Village—Scenic village great for authentic experiences.
- Gulaba—Alternative to Rohtang for snow lovers.
- Naggar Castle – Offbeat heritage building with a great view and art gallery.
Local Food to Try in Manali:
- Siddu, Bhey, and Chha Gosht—Traditional Himachali delights.
- Grilled trout fish in riverside cafés.
- Tibetan food like momos, Thukpa, and Tingmo in Old Manali.
- Famous eateries: Café 1947, The Lazy Dog, and Drifter’s Inn & Café.
Best Time to Visit Manali:
- March to June – Cool, fresh air and green landscapes.
- December to February—Bes—Best for snowfall and winter adventure.
- October to November—Quieter time with clear skies and crisp air.
Kasol and Tosh—Budget-Friendly Himachal Destinations
Tucked away in the scenic Parvati Valley, Kasol and Tosh are peaceful villages known for natural beauty, hippie vibes, and budget travel. These small towns are loved by backpackers, solo travelers, and anyone looking to disconnect from the busy world.
Top Attractions in Kasol & Tosh:
- Parvati River—Sit by the riverside and enjoy café views and nature sounds.
- Manikaran Sahib—A sacred Gurudwara with hot springs, near Kasol.
- Tosh Village—Quaint mountain village with snow views and peaceful vibes.
- Kheerganga Trek—A famous trek that starts from nearby Barshaini.
- Malana Village—Known for its unique culture and traditional rules.
- Chalal—A short walk from Kasol, perfect for forest trails and camping.
Things to Do in Kasol & Tosh:
- Go trekking to Kheerganga, Tosh Glacier, or Rasol.
- Relax in riverside cafés with Israeli and local food.
- Visit hot water springs in Manikaran.
- Explore local markets for woolens, crystals, and handmade items.
- Camp under the stars in Tosh or near Chalal.
- Attend music gatherings or chill-out parties in peak seasons.
Hidden Gems in Kasol & Tosh:
- Kalga and Pulga Villages—Quiet escapes near Barshaini with wooden homestays.
- Kutla Village—A lesser-known trek from Tosh, pure nature and calm.
- Grahan Village—Offbeat trail starting from Kasol, great for nature lovers.
Local Food to Try in Kasol & Tosh:
- Israeli dishes like Shakshuka, Falafel, and Hummus – very popular here.
- Tibetan momos, Thukpa, and Siddu in local dhabas.
- Don’t miss the wood-fired pizzas and chocolate pancakes at Kasol cafés.
- Try popular cafés like Moon Dance Café, Evergreen Café, and Jim Morrison Café.
Best Time to Visit Kasol & Tosh:
- March to June – Best weather for treks and clear mountain views.
- October to November—Great for quiet stays and budget travel.
- Avoid peak monsoon (July–August) due to slippery trails and landslides.
Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj—Spiritual Hill Towns
Nestled in the Dhauladhar ranges, Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj are known for their peaceful vibes, Tibetan monasteries, and beautiful mountain views. These hill towns are perfect for travelers who want to relax, meditate, or explore Himachal’s cultural side.
Top Attractions in Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj:
- Tsuglagkhang Complex – Home of the Dalai Lama and main monastery.
- Namgyal Monastery—A peaceful place for prayer and quiet reflection.
- Bhagsu Waterfall—A scenic spot near Bhagsunag Temple.
- Triund Trek—A short, scenic trek with breathtaking views.
- Dal Lake—A calm lake surrounded by deodar trees.
- Kangra Fort—One of India’s oldest forts with stunning views.
- St. John in the Wilderness Church – Beautifully set among tall trees.
- War Memorial – Honors soldiers with a garden setting and old war tanks.
Things to Do in Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj:
- Attend meditation or yoga sessions in local centers.
- Hike the Triund Trek for sunrise or overnight camping.
- Visit Norbulingka Institute to learn about Tibetan art and culture.
- Explore local monasteries and enjoy peaceful nature walks.
- Shop for Tibetan handicrafts, prayer wheels, and woolens.
- Visit Dharamkot for café culture and sunset points.
Hidden Gems in Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj:
- Naddi Village – Offbeat spot with panoramic views and quiet trails.
- Gallu Devi Temple—Starting point for many peaceful treks.
- Kareri Lake—High-altitude lake with a beautiful trek route.
- Indru Nag Temple—A peaceful hilltop with paragliding nearby.
Local Food to Try in Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj:
- Tibetan thukpa, momos, and butter tea are must-try items.
- Local Himachali dishes like Madra, Chana Bhatura, and Siddu.
- Try popular cafés like Illiterati, Tibet Kitchen, and Shiva Café (near Bhagsu Waterfall).
- Don’t miss the chocolate cakes and herbal teas at hillside cafés.
Best Time to Visit Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj:
- March to June – Pleasant weather for sightseeing and trekking.
- September to November – Best for peaceful retreats and festivals.
- December to February—Cold and snowy, but charming.
Spiti Valley—Offbeat & Unexplored Places in Himachal
Spiti Valley is a cold desert tucked between Tibet and Himachal Pradesh, known for its rugged beauty, ancient monasteries, and remote villages. It’s perfect for travelers looking for something raw, untouched, and soul-refreshing.
Top Attractions in Spiti Valley:
- Key Monastery—The largest and most iconic Buddhist monastery in Spiti.
- Kibber Village—One of the highest motorable villages in the world.
- Chandratal Lake—A moon-shaped alpine lake with stunning blue waters.
- Dhankar Monastery – Perched on a cliff, offering breathtaking valley views.
- Langza—Famous for fossil hunting and the big Buddha statue.
- Hikkim—Home to the world’s highest post office.
- Komic—One of the world’s highest villages with a motorable road.
- Tabo Monastery—Over 1,000 years old and full of spiritual energy.
Things to Do in Spiti Valley:
- Go on a road trip through the rough yet scenic Spiti circuit.
- Camp beside Chandratal Lake under a star-filled sky.
- Explore Tibetan culture through monasteries and local homes.
- Try biking or photography across high-altitude desert routes.
- Trek to hidden lakes and remote villages like Demul and Lhalung.
- Send a postcard from Hikkim to mark your visit.
Hidden Gems in Spiti Valley:
- Pin Valley—A quiet, green valley within Spiti, ideal for trekkers.
- Gue Village—Known for the naturally preserved mummy of a monk.
- Tashigang—A tiny village with endless peace and prayer flags.
- Demul Village—Great for eco-stays and community tourism.
- Lhalung—Lesser-known village with ancient temples and kind locals.
Local Food to Try in Spiti Valley:
- Thukpa, Tingmo, and Butter Tea—daily local staples.
- Try Spitian bread, yak cheese, and barley soup at homestays.
- Don’t miss a meal at a monastery café or local dhaba in Kaza.
- Warm up with chhang (local barley drink) on cold nights.
Best Time to Visit Spiti Valley:
- June to September—Best weather for road trips and camping.
- May & October—Less crowded, good for peaceful travel.
- Winter (Nov–Mar)—Only for experienced travelers due to heavy snow.
Dalhousie—Must-Visit Place in Winter
Dalhousie is a charming colonial town that turns magical in winter with its snow-covered churches, pine forests, and peaceful streets. With stunning views of the Dhauladhar range and a calm vibe, it’s perfect for couples, families, and slow travellers.
Top Attractions in Dalhousie:
- Khajjiar—Known as the Mini Switzerland of India, with lush meadows and forest views.
- St. John’s Church—A beautiful old church with British-era architecture.
- Panchpula—A small waterfall and picnic spot surrounded by pine trees.
- Satdhara Falls—Seven natural springs believed to have healing properties.
- Subhash Baoli—A peaceful spring and forest trail named after Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.
- Garam Sadak—A warm, sunlit road ideal for scenic walks.
Things to Do in Dalhousie:
- Enjoy snowfall in winter (Dec–Feb), especially in Khajjiar and Dainkund.
- Take nature walks through pine forests and quiet trails.
- Go for a horse ride in Khajjiar meadows.
- Shop for handicrafts, woolens, and Himachali caps at the Tibetan Market.
- Explore British-era architecture and colonial-style bungalows.
Hidden Gems in Dalhousie:
- Dainkund Peak – Highest point in Dalhousie with 360° views and light trekking.
- Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary – Forest trails, rich birdlife, and mountain silence.
- Bakrota Hills—A quiet circular road with amazing mountain views.
- Chamera Lake – Serene lake ideal for boating and peaceful escapes.
Local Food to Try in Dalhousie:
- Chana Madra, Dham, and Siddu – Local Himachali delights.
- Warm up with Maggi, momos, and chai at street stalls in winter.
- Try baked goods at cute cafés like Café Dalhousie and Old Sher-e-Punjab.
- Don’t miss hot chocolate and pahadi soups during snowy evenings.
Best Time to Visit Dalhousie:
- December to February—Fo—For snowfall and winter charm.
- March to June – Pleasant climate and blooming nature.
- October to November—Quiet, off-season travel with fewer crowds.
Tirthan Valley—Best for Eco-Tourism
Tirthan Valley is a hidden paradise in Himachal, known for its crystal-clear rivers, forest trails, and peaceful mountain villages. Away from the tourist crowd, it’s perfect for those who love nature, slow travel, and sustainable tourism.
Top Attractions in Tirthan Valley:
- Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP)—A UNESCO site full of wildlife, trekking routes, and alpine beauty.
- Jalori Pass—High-altitude mountain pass offering stunning views and light treks.
- Serolsar Lake—A peaceful lake surrounded by dense forest, perfect for a day hike.
- Chehni Kothi—An ancient Himachali tower built with wood and stone.
- Shringa Rishi Temple—A beautiful wooden temple with local significance.
Things to Do in Tirthan Valley:
- Go trekking inside GHNP for a true wilderness experience.
- Enjoy trout fishing in the clear Tirthan River.
- Camp by the riverside and listen to the soothing sound of flowing water.
- Visit nearby villages like Gushaini and Banjar for cultural experiences.
- Try bird watching, forest bathing, and eco-friendly walks.
Hidden Gems in Tirthan Valley:
- Rolla Trek—An easy forest trek leading into GHNP.
- Nagini Village—Peaceful and scenic with traditional Himachali homes.
- Chhoie Waterfall—A short hike leads to this untouched waterfall.
- Bandal Village—Offbeat and perfect for nature photography.
Local Food to Try in Tirthan Valley:
- Try Siddu, Bhey (lotus stem curry), and Tudkiya Bhat at local homes.
- Enjoy trout fish—freshly cooked in local spices.
- Warm yourself with herbal teas, local rice beer, or homemade jams.
- Many homestays serve authentic Himachali thalis with seasonal ingredients.
Best Time to Visit Tirthan Valley:
- March to June – Ideal for trekking, camping, and river activities.
- September to November—Great weather, fewer tourists, and clear skies.
- Avoid peak monsoon (July–Aug) due to slippery trails and rainfall.
Kinnaur & Sangla—The Apple Valleys
Kinnaur and Sangla Valley are two scenic gems in Himachal, famous for their apple orchards, ancient temples, and rich Tibetan-influenced culture. With stunning landscapes and peaceful villages, these valleys offer a quiet escape from the usual tourist routes.
Top Attractions in Kinnaur & Sangla:
- Chitkul—Th—The last village on the Indo-Tibet border, known for wooden houses and breathtaking views.
- Kamru Fort—A historic fort near Sangla with a temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya Devi.
- Baspa River—Flowing through Sangla Valley, perfect for riverside walks and views.
- Kalpa—A beautiful town with views of Kinnaur Kailash peaks and traditional Himachali houses.
- Roghi Cliff—A thrilling cliff-edge viewpoint offering panoramic mountain views.
- Narayan-Nagini Temple—An ancient temple with intricate wooden carvings in Kalpa.
Things to Do in Kinnaur & Sangla:
- Walk through apple orchards during the harvest season (Aug–Oct).
- Visit local monasteries and temples for a peaceful experience.
- Try camping near Chitkul or beside the Baspa River.
- Enjoy village walks and interact with the warm Kinnauri locals.
- Take a slow drive through the Kinnaur Valley road—one of the most scenic routes in India.
Hidden Gems in Kinnaur & Sangla:
- Batseri Village—A traditional Himachali village near Sangla, known for its calm vibe.
- Kalpa Suicide Point—A sharp cliff viewpoint with incredible valley views.
- Rakchham Village—A peaceful stop between Sangla and Chitkul with alpine beauty.
- Sapni Fort – Lesser-known fort with wooden architecture and royal history.
Local Food to Try in Kinnaur & Sangla:
- Taste fresh apples, jams, and locally made juices straight from the orchards.
- Try Chha Gosht, Thenthuk, and local breads with yak butter.
- Enjoy traditional Himachali thalis at local dhabas and homestays.
- Don’t miss apricot-based desserts and homemade apple wine.
Best Time to Visit Kinnaur & Sangla:
- May to October – Best for clear skies, green valleys, and apple picking.
- March–April – For blooming apple blossoms.
- Avoid monsoon season (July–Aug) due to landslides and slippery roads.
Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages from Major Cities
No matter where you live in India, HappyOuting brings you the best Himachal Pradesh tour packages with smooth travel, cozy stays, and full sightseeing. Whether you're a couple, a family, or a group of friends, there’s a package that fits your time, budget, and travel vibe.
Himachal Tour Package from Delhi
Looking for a quick mountain getaway? A Himachal tour package from Delhi is one of the easiest ways to reach the hills. Choose from Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, or a full circuit trip—all easily connected by road, train, or Volvo bus.
What’s included:
- Private cab/Volvo travel options
- 3–7 day trips with hotel & sightseeing
- Ideal for couples, students & weekend escapes
- Pickup/drop from Delhi NCR available
Himachal Package from Mumbai
Planning a trip from the West? A Himachal package from Mumbai usually includes flights to Chandigarh or Delhi followed by a scenic road journey. Best suited for 5- to 9-day trips covering snowy peaks and pine forests.
What’s included:
- Flight + transport + hotel + meals
- Destinations like Manali, Shimla, Spiti & Dalhousie
- Romantic, family-friendly & luxury options
- Flexible start/end points to fit your schedule
Himachal Tour from Bangalore and Chennai
For South Indian travelers, a Himachal tour from Bangalore and Chennai offers a refreshing change of scenery. These packages usually include flights and cover top destinations like Manali, Shimla, or even offbeat gems like Tirthan or Spiti.
What’s included:
- Flights and internal transfers
- 6- to 10-day itineraries for snow or summer escapes
- Stays with mountain views, sightseeing & meals
- Perfect for long holidays or honeymoon trips
Custom Packages for Couples, Families & Groups
Looking for something special? Our custom packages for couples, families, or groups are tailor-made as per your needs—from luxury to budget. Whether it’s a romantic honeymoon, a family break, or a fun group trip, we design the perfect Himachal experience for you.
What’s included:
- Custom travel plans based on interest and budget
- Candlelight dinners, private cabs & scenic stays for couples
- Kid-friendly activities and group discounts available
- Homestays, eco-resorts, and local guides on request
Best Travel Routes & Packages to Explore Himachal
Planning your dream trip to Himachal Pradesh becomes easy when you choose the right route and package. Whether you're coming from Delhi, Mumbai, or down South, there are scenic ways to reach the hills—each offering a different experience. At HappyOuting, we offer curated travel routes & packages for all types of travelers. From weekend getaways to long circuit tours, you can choose from:
Types of Himachal Travel Packages
Couple-Friendly Escapes
Ideal for honeymoons or quiet mountain time together. These packages offer scenic resorts, candlelight dinners, peaceful walks, and private travel—all designed for two.
Budget Group Trips
Great for students, friends, or large groups looking for a low-cost, high-fun experience. Includes shared transport, comfy stays, and major sightseeing—all within budget.
Luxury Holiday Packages
For those who want the best of Himachal with extra comfort. Enjoy 4–5 star resorts, private vehicles, spa sessions, gourmet meals, and snow-side luxury.
Customised Plans for Families
Family-friendly tours with easy routes, safe hotels, kid zones, and senior-friendly sightseeing. These packages offer something for everyone in the family.
Himachal Trip from Delhi—Road or Rail?
If you're planning your Himachal Pradesh tour from Delhi, the journey itself can be an unforgettable part of the experience. Whether you prefer the thrill of open highways or the charm of scenic rail rides, both options offer beautiful ways to begin your adventure with HappyOuting.
By Road—Flexible, Scenic & Full of Views
Travelling by road gives you full freedom to enjoy the journey — stop at viewpoints, sip chai by a river, or just breathe in the mountain air. It’s perfect for road trip lovers, photographers, and those who enjoy the scenic route.
Top Road Routes from Delhi:
- Delhi to Shimla distance – 340 km (Approx. 8 hours)
- Delhi to Manali distance – 530 km (Approx. 12 hours)
- Delhi to Dharamshala distance – 475 km (Approx. 10 hours)
- Delhi to Kasol distance – 510 km (Approx. 12 hours)
Best Options for Road Travel:
- Private cab with driver (bookable via HappyOuting)
- Self-drive car rentals for road trip lovers
- Volvo or AC buses—pocket-friendly and comfortable
Road Travel Highlights:
- Stunning Himalayan views
- Stopovers at dhabas, rivers, and nature spots
- Flexible timing & personal comfort
By Rail—Relaxing & Budget-Friendly
Prefer a calm and comfortable start to your trip? Train travel is a great option, especially for families, elderly travellers, or those who want to skip long drives.
Popular Rail Route:
- Delhi to Kalka distance – 270 km (Approx. 5 hours by train)
- Kalka to Shimla by Toy Train – 96 km (Approx. 5 hours)
This toy train journey is a UNESCO World Heritage experience, passing through lush hills, tunnels, and old stone bridges — a must-try if it’s your first trip to Shimla!
Rail Travel Highlights:
- Safe and relaxing
- Perfect for scenic photography
- Budget-friendly for families and groups
HappyOuting Tip:
Choose road travel if you love adventure, pit stops, and mountain roads. Go for the rail route if you're after comfort, beautiful views, and a peaceful start. No matter which route you choose, HappyOuting’s custom Himachal packages make your journey easy and enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best time to visit Himachal Pradesh?
The best time to visit Himachal depends on what you want to experience.
- March to June—Perfect for sightseeing, trekking, and pleasant weather.
- July to September—Green landscapes during monsoon, but avoid landslide-prone areas.
- December to February – Best for snowfall in Manali, Kufri, and Spiti.
2. How many days are enough for a Himachal trip?
A short trip can be done in 5 to 6 days, covering 2–3 places like Shimla and Manali. But for a relaxed vacation covering multiple spots like Dharamshala, Kasol, or Spiti, plan 8 to 10 days.
3. Is Himachal safe for couples and solo travelers?
Yes, Himachal is one of the safest places to travel in India. Locals are friendly and tourism is well-managed. Just avoid isolated areas at night and check the weather before planning your route.
4. What are the must-carry things for a Himachal trip?
- Warm clothes (even in summer for high-altitude spots)
- Comfortable shoes for walking/trekking
- Power bank, basic medicines, and ID proof
- Sunscreen and moisturiser
- Cash (ATMs can be limited in remote areas)
5. Can HappyOuting help with customized Himachal tour packages?
Absolutely! At HappyOuting, we offer customized Himachal tour packages for couples, families, friends, and solo travelers—with flexible dates, transport, hotel choices, and local experiences. Just tell us your travel style, and we’ll take care of the rest!