Palampur, a hidden gem nestled amidst the Dhauladhar ranges, offers a perfect blend of serenity and adventure. Immerse yourself in the lush greenery of sprawling tea gardens, taking leisurely walks through the plantations or indulging in a refreshing cup of tea. For the adrenaline junkies, there are various things to do in Palampur like paragliding, river rafting, and trekking through the picturesque landscapes.
History and culture enthusiasts can explore ancient temples like Chamunda Devi or delve into the world of art at the Sobha Singh Art Gallery. Saurabh Van Vihar, a sprawling park with a serene lake, is ideal for picnics and family outings. You can also get an opportunity to visit Andretta, a charming artists' village known for its pottery and vibrant art scene. As the day ends, relax by the tranquil Neugal Khad or simply unwind amidst the breathtaking Himalayan vistas. Palampur provides a rejuvenating escape, catering to diverse interests and creating unforgettable memories.
Explore the lush green tea gardens that stretch across the hills. You can walk through the plantations and enjoy the scenic beauty. While enjoying one of the best things to do in Palampur, you can experience the aroma and flavors of freshly brewed tea. Some tea estates offer guided tours where you can taste different types of tea. Learn about the tea production process, from plucking the leaves to packaging the final product.
Location: Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Enjoy a peaceful walk through the well-maintained Saurabh Van Vihar with lush greenery, colorful flowers, and scenic surroundings which is one of the wonderful things to do near Palampur. In the gardens, there are designated areas where you can relax and have a picnic with family or friends. You can visit the small lake within the park, where you can take a stroll around or simply sit by the water and enjoy the calm atmosphere.
Location: Bundla Kandi Road, Uwarna, Palampur
Timings: 09:00 AM- 07:00 PM
Neugal Khad is a small, picturesque river that flows through the region, offering beautiful natural scenery and a peaceful environment. While enjoying one of these amazing things to do in Palampur Himachal, you can find a comfortable spot by the river for a picnic or simply unwind and enjoy the natural beauty. You can also take a leisurely walk along the riverside and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings.
Location: Neugal Khad, Palampur, Dodan Khola
Timings: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
The temple is dedicated to Birni Devi, a local deity worshipped by the people in the region. The temple showcases traditional Himachali architectural styles, characterized by wooden carvings, sloping roofs, and intricate designs. In the temple, you can see special ceremonies which are often held here. The temple’s location on a hilltop provides stunning panoramic views of the lush green valleys and hills of the Kangra district.
Location: 4HW6+CPJ Temple, Birni, Palampur
Timings: 06:00 AM- 07:00 PM
Admire the traditional Tibetan-style architecture of Tashi Jong Monastery, including its colorful murals and intricate designs. While exploring the monastery, you can enjoy the calm and serene atmosphere, which is ideal for meditation and relaxation. You can explore various religious artifacts, statues, and paintings that reflect Tibetan Buddhism and its practices. You will experience Tibetan culture through the monastery’s daily rituals and ceremonies.
Location: Tashi Jong, near Palampur
Timings: 08:00 AM- 05:00 PM
Experience a piece of history with a ride on the narrow-gauge toy train, which has been a part of the region’s heritage for many years. The gentle, slow-moving ride offers a relaxing and enjoyable way to take in the beauty of the surroundings. You can enjoy breathtaking views of the lush green hills, tea gardens, and charming landscapes as the train chugs along its route. With this one of the best things to do in Palampur, you will observe local life and scenery as you pass through small stations and rural areas.
Location: Palampur, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: 09:00 AM to 04:00 PM
The temple is an important pilgrimage site for devotees of Shiva. Admire the historical architecture of the Baijnath Temple, which is an example of an ancient North Indian temple design. In the temple, you can observe and participate in the rituals and offerings made by worshippers. Look at the detailed stone carvings and sculptures that decorate the temple walls and entrance, reflecting traditional craftsmanship.
Location: Baijnath, near Palampur, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: 06:00- 07:00 PM
The temple is a major pilgrimage site dedicated to Chamunda Devi, a fierce form of the goddess Durga. You can participate in or observe the religious rituals and offerings made by devotees. You will admire the traditional architecture of the temple, which includes intricate carvings and a beautiful shrine dedicated to Goddess Chamunda. Enjoy the natural beauty around the temple, including the picturesque views of the river and the surrounding hills.
Location: Chamunda Temple Path, Padar, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: 06:00 AM- 08:00 PM
Explore the simple yet charming architecture of the temple, dedicated to Jakhani Mata, a revered local goddess. You can participate in or observe the local rituals and ceremonies held in honor of the goddess. You will enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding hills and natural landscape from the temple. Also, you can experience a calm and serene atmosphere, ideal for reflection and meditation.
Location: Jakhani, near Palampur, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: 06:00 AM- 07:00 PM
Visit this one of the ancient temples in the Palampur area and marvel at its traditional Himachali architecture. The temple is dedicated to Langha Mata, a local goddess worshipped by the residents. She is believed to be a protective and benevolent deity. The temple’s location offers a tranquil and calm environment, ideal for prayer and meditation. It also provides beautiful views of the surrounding hills and landscape, adding to the serene and peaceful atmosphere.
Location: Near Palampur, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: 06:00 AM- 07:00 PM
Nestled amidst the serene hills of Himachal Pradesh, the Shakti Peeth Shri Chamunda Devi Temple stands as a beacon of spirituality and devotion. This ancient temple, dedicated to Goddess Chamunda, a fierce form of the Divine Mother, is a revered pilgrimage site that attracts thousands of devotees and tourists each year.
The temple's location on a hilltop provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, adding to the sense of tranquility and divine presence that envelops the area. As you approach the temple, the peaceful ambiance and the scent of incense create a sense of calm that prepares you for a spiritual experience.
The Shri Chamunda Devi Temple is part of the Shakti Peeths, a network of sacred shrines dedicated to the divine feminine energy. According to legend, the temple is built on a site where the goddess's feet fell, making it a place of immense spiritual significance. The deity, depicted as a fierce yet benevolent form of the goddess, symbolizes power and protection. Worshippers believe that seeking her blessings can bring strength, wisdom, and prosperity into their lives.
Perched at the highest point of Chandanpur in Kangra, the climb to this exotic temple may be arduous and physically demanding, but the view at the top makes it extremely worth the sweat. The vantage point offers spectacular views of the Dhauladhar mountain range, the gorgeous valley of Kangra and the quaint little hamlets sprinkled all over the district.
The temple has cultural and religious values among the Hindu community and is an ideal tourist destination for families exploring Himachal.
An important cultural heritage site for Tibetans, the Norbulingka Institute is dedicated to passing on the Tibetan culture and historical importance to the future generations. Experience seekers and curious souls will be at home here – every corner of the institute is replete with unique stories and adventures.
Witness the stories of the employees to gain a perspective on Tibetan culture, buy beautiful clothes and home accessories made with Tibetan art styles or participate in one of the workshops to get a more hands-on approach.
The list of places to visit in Palampur would be incomplete without the mention of the humble Andretta Pottery. A quaint little property in the heart of the village, the place is a bit lost in its surroundings and easy to miss. But art lovers and pottery enthusiasts throng to the place alike for its humble appearances.
Offering services ranging from the terracotta museum, hands-on pottery making for tourists, and a pottery shop – you will find yourself wondering where the time went at Andretta.
Spend a memorable half an hour at this property housing intriguing original artwork of the famous artist Sobha Singh. The displayed artwork includes beautiful paintings, sculptures, and canvases. For the true fans, the gallery provides access to his studio too.
Besides, you can admire artifacts and photographs related to the legendary artist and shop for souvenirs like mugs and books at the handicraft shop located on the premises. The gallery holds a special place in the hearts of the Punjabi community for its artistic and cultural value.
Nestled amidst the scenic Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh, the Tea Gardens of Palampur offer a tranquil escape into nature's lap, where lush greenery and fresh mountain air rejuvenate the senses. Spread across acres of undulating slopes, these tea estates present a picturesque landscape that captivates visitors with its beauty and serenity.
The Tea Gardens of Palampur are renowned for producing high-quality Kangra tea, celebrated for its delicate flavor and aroma. As you stroll through the neatly manicured rows of tea bushes, you'll witness the meticulous process of tea cultivation, from plucking the tender leaves to their expert processing in nearby factories. Visitors can also engage in tea-tasting sessions to savor the distinct flavors of Kangra tea and learn about its rich heritage.
Featuring a collection of European artworks, the Naam Art Gallery is one of the most interesting places to visit in Palampur. The gallery showcases paintings from a number of legendary artists and a variety of painting forms ranging from watercolors to acrylics.
A captivating place for art lovers, the gallery is also popular among photography enthusiasts for its gorgeous interiors and bewitching contemporary art pieces. Some of the paintings are also focused on Himachal lifestyle and culture.
3-4 kilometers from Palampur is the Neugal Khad – a wide stream of water popular among tourists for family picnics and day outings. The site also features a beautiful black iron bridge. Set against the high mountains of Dhauladhar, the Neugal Khad along with the bridge is ideal for photography enthusiasts to click Instagram worthy pictures.
Close to the steam is the Neugal Park featuring little eateries and quaint cafes where you can sit outside and enjoy snacks while taking in the majestic views around you.
Named after an Indian army officer, the Van Vihar is one of the most popular tourist places to visit in Palampur. An ideal spot for the nature lover in you, Van Vihar offers gorgeous views of the magnificent, snow-capped Dhauladhar mountain range.
An overall great place to holiday with your family, the park features lush gardens for taking a leisurely stroll in the pollution free environs. Moreover, there is a small lake and you can go boating there!
Located just 15 kilometers away from the district, Tashi Jong Monastery is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Palampur. The building sits against lush green hills and no matter what way you look, the Himalayan mountains disappearing into the clouds will leave you breathless.
The monastery itself is a sight to behold – decorated with wooden carvings, paintings, and Buddha statues. For the shoppers in you, the temple also features a craft emporium where you can buy beautiful Tibetan handicrafts.
Palampur is famous for its picturesque tea gardens, lush green landscapes, and serene environment. It is known for its historical sites like Baijnath Temple and cultural attractions such as Tibetan monasteries. The town is also renowned for its pleasant climate, beautiful Dhauladhar mountain range, and various things to do in Palampur.
Yes, Palampur is known for its toy train, which operates on the Kangra Valley Railway. This narrow-gauge train offers a scenic journey through the beautiful hills and tea gardens of the region. It is a charming way to experience the picturesque landscape and enjoy the serene environment.
Yes, Palampur is worth visiting for its stunning natural beauty, lush tea gardens, and serene environment. Also, there is a range of things to do in Palampur Himachal. It offers a peaceful retreat with attractions like historical temples, Tibetan monasteries, and scenic spots such as the Dhauladhar Mountains.
The best time to visit Palampur is from March to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and exploring the tea gardens. The temperatures are comfortable, and the natural beauty of the region is at its peak.
Palampur is accessible by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Gaggal, located about 45 km away, with flights connecting major cities. Pathankot railway station, around 112 km away, is well-connected to various parts of India. However, the most scenic route is by road as buses and taxis are available from major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.
Some of the best things to do in Palampur with kids are as follows: