30

Best Hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh

The trendy hill station of Shimla is one of the most sought after tourist destination owing to a unique colonial era (summer capital of Britishers), trekking options, mystical woods, lush green vegetation and snow capped Himalayan ranges. No matter how often you have visited this place, Shimla never ceases to charm you in a different way each time you are there. Often referred to as the ‘Queen of Hills’, Shimla is undoubtedly, one of the best hill stations in Himachal.

Whether it’s the popular Mall Road that is dotted with shops, eateries and restaurants, or the peaceful hamlet of Chadwick Falls or the ancient Jhakhoo Temple of Lord Hanuman, perched atop a hill and thronged by uncountable tourists and pilgrims, Shimla remains a popular vacation spot for honeymooners and families alike.

Best time to visit: March to June and November to February for snowfall

Things/activities to do: Camping, trekking, ice skating, paragliding, skiing, white water rafting

Distance from Delhi: 340 km

Nearest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport, Shimla, 22 km from Shimla

Also Checkout: Shimla 4 Night 5 Days Package

Mounted high up in the snow-clad peaks, enthralling scenic beauty and splendid sounds of Buddhist chants and tinkering bells echoing in the air, this little hamlet set in the backdrop of the Dhauladhar ranges, attracts scores of travelers from all across the globe. The pristine Bhagsu Falls and the Bhagsunath temple located just next to the fall are the prime attractions of Dharamshala for all the nature lovers.

If you have some interest in history and archaeology, a visit to the Rock–cut Masrur temple with its exquisite monolithic structures that mimic the one at Mahabalipuram and Ellora, will not leave you disappointed. You can also spot several Buddhist monasteries and scores of monks walking across the streets in their vivid red robes. There are also many trekking places among the scenic mountainous terrain, including Triund Trek, Kareri Lake Trek and Minkiani Pass Trek.

Best time to visit: October to July

Things/activities to do: Paragliding, trekking, sightseeing,

Distance from Delhi: 520 km

Nearest Airport: Dharamsala Kangra Airport, 13 km from Dharamshala
Also Book: Himachal Pradesh Honeymoon Package

If you want to escape to a pleasantly mystic hill station amidst the snow clad mountains and alluring environs, then Manali might just be the perfect choice for you. Manali offers a picturesque and delightful view of the neighboring valleys, irrespective of the month you choose to visit.

The charming resort town of Manali offers scores of picturesque sights and temples, splashing rivers, water streams, kunds, adventure parks and sky-high mountains and is easily accessible from Shimla, Delhi and Chandigarh, making it one of the most sought after weekend destinations for travelers seeking a pleasurable holiday. Manali is evergreen and the perfect place to unwind and celebrate your vacation and is a popular romantic escapade among honeymooners.

Best time to visit: March to June

Things/activities to do: Trekking, photography, camping, rock climbing, nature and wildlife safari

Distance from Delhi: 532 km

Nearest Airport: Kullu–Manali Airport, Bhuntar, 52 km from Manali
Checkout More: Group Tour Packages For Himachal

The panoramic destination of Chail along with its hilly terrains and pristine landscapes, makes for one of the perfect hill stations in Himachal. Chail served as the former summer capital of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of the princely state of Patiala and is popularly known for housing the world’s highest cricket ground built in 1893. The ground is situated at height of 2,445 meters and offers grand unsurpassed vistas of the Himalayan Mountains.

Chail also houses a wildlife sanctuary where you can spot the Rhesus macaque, leopard, Indian muntjac, Crested porcupine, Himalayan black bear and common langur, among other species. Don’t forget to indulge in some thrilling adventure activities like trekking and camping while you stay in one of the several private hotels or relaxing cottages around Chail.

Best time to visit: April to October

Things/activities to do: Wildlife sanctuary, photography, trekking, sightseeing

Distance from Delhi: 337 km

Nearest Airport: Jubbarhati Airport, Shimla, 45 km from Chail
Also Book: Himachal Tour Packages For Family

Mcleodganj is famed across the world for being home to the Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama. Nestled amidst majestic hills and lush greenery, this town is culturally blessed by a prominent blend of Tibetan and British influence owing to the major settlement of Tibetans here. Mcleodganj with its stunning landscapes attracts a lot of tourists throughout the year and is home to some of the most eminent and religiously significant monasteries in India.

Prominent ones are the Namgyal Monastery and Tsuglagkhang, where the spiritual leader Dalai Lama resides. You should also visit the scenic Dal Lake and Triund, which make for great picnic spots.

Best time to visit: September to March

Things/activities to do: Trekking, sightseeing, photography

Distance from Delhi: 480 km

Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport, Dharamshala, 30 km from Mcleodganj
Also Visit: Luxury Himachal Tour Package

This idyllic Himalayan village and an army cantonment region is known for its unparalleled scenic charm, beautiful British colonial architecture, cobbled roads, old-fashioned Victorian buildings, countryside landscape and gothic-style churches. The Mall Road is its prime attraction, always dotted with tourists bargaining for woollens, gorging on piping hot momos and maggi or just having a leisurely stroll soaking in the fresh mountain breeze.

A visit to the famous Monkey Point at sunset, the highest point in Kasauli from where you can see the illuminated views of the Chandigarh city below, is truly a sight to behold. If you wish to engage in something unique, you can embark on the mesmerizing toy train that runs between Kasauli and Dharamkot. The train makes its way through a number of hill tunnels, gorgeous forests and tiny hill-side villages, leaving you with many amazing memories to cherish forever.

Best time to visit: March to June

Things/activities to do: Camping, photography, trekking, sightseeing

Distance from Delhi: 287 km

Nearest Airport: Chandigarh Airport, 70 km from Kasauli
Must Checkout: Himachal Pradesh Tour Package From Delhi

Bir Billing is a popular destination for adventures sports like paragliding, trekking and camping. The hill town hosts the World Paragliding Championship every year. The take-off site is called Billing and the landing spot is Bir and the overall altitude change is roughly 800 meters.

The town of Bir is also an important centre of spiritual studies, yoga and meditation, and stars high resemblance to the Tibetan culture. Besides, the Deer Park and the Bir Tea Factory are also must-visit places. There is a modest yet vibrant culture of shopping in Bir, with a handful of local bazaars selling Tibetan-styled jewellery, incense and other Buddhist ritual items.

Best time to visit: Round the year

Things/activities to do: Trekking, mountain biking, trail running, sightseeing

Distance from Delhi: 518 km

Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport, Dharamshala, 68 km from Bir
You May Also Book: Himachal Pradesh Tour From Ahmedabad

Well known place for horse riding around the year, the picturesque town of Kufri is also a popular picnic spot near Delhi for skiing on snow-clad slopes, go-karting, yak rides and other winter sports. This little hill station is also the place from where most of the treks to Manali and Shimla commence. Nature walks and trails through thick foliage and grooves make this place a great spot to get consumed by nature’s wanderlust.

Take a leisurely walk through the vibrant bazaar or interact with the locals to know more about the place. Kufri Fun World, Himalayan National Park and Mahasu Peak are some of the other places that attract the travelers from far and wide. This little hill station is one of the must-visit hill stations in Himachal for all those who are looking to reboot themselves from the distress of urban life.

Best time to visit: December to February (for snowfall) and April to June

Things/activities to do: Sightseeing, temple visit, trekking, wildlife photography

Distance from Delhi: 357 km

Nearest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport, Shimla, 20 km from Kufri
Also Checkout & Book: Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages From Mumbai

Flanked by River Beas, Kullu is one of the most photogenic valleys and famous tourist places in Himachal bestowed with opulent green meadows, orchards, and sparkling streams. It is one of the most visited hill stations in Himachal owing to its historic temples and sacred shrines, most significant of which include the Manikaran Gurudwara, Kheerganga Hot springs, Bijli Mahadev Temple and Raghunath Temple.

This alluring destination is also famous for numerous enchanting waterfalls, striking fruit orchards, flower-carpeted meadows and cascading rivers. It is a favorite spot amongst hikers and trekking enthusiasts who gather here in great numbers to venture on some of the most famous and exhilarating treks of the region.

Best time to visit: March to June and November to February for snowfall

Things/activities to do: Trekking, river rafting, flying fox, paragliding, skiing, snowboarding

Distance from Delhi: 492 km

Nearest Airport: Kullu–Manali Airport, Bhuntar, 11 km from Kullu
Checkout & Book: Himachal Tour From Chandigarh

Known as ‘temple town’ of Himachal Pradesh, Shoghi boasts of innumerable vintage temples and lush green countryside landscapes. It is one of the best hill stations in Himachal for ideal family vacations and picnics. Major tourist attractions here include Kali temple, Jakhoo Hill, Hanuman Temple and Kandaghat.

Being one of the lesser explored hill stations, there are no hotels and commercial shops but the abundant natural scenic beauty and a large variety of flora and fauna completely makes up for it.

Best time to visit: March to June or September to November

Things/activities to do: Trekking, photography, sightseeing

Distance from Delhi: 330 km

Nearest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport, Shimla, 33 km from Shoghi
You Must Checkout: Himachal Tours From Pune
                                    3 Nights 4 Days Manali Tour Package

You Can also Book: 3 Nights 4 Days Manali Tour Package
                                   8 nights 9 days Himachal Package

The list of famous hill stations in Himachal remains incomplete without the mention of the charming hill station of Dalhousie that attracts holiday-seekers, nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts and adventure buffs. Sprawled over a group of 5 hills, the picturesque town, endowed with mesmerizing scenic beauty, rustic colonial flavours and a tranquil charm, served as a summer retreat during the British era and provides for a welcome break to all the city dwellers travelling here in search of peace and relaxation.

Embark on a mild trek to Panch-Pulla, which is a paradise of cascading waterfalls, burbling streams and mesmerizing vistas of surrounding hills and forests or the refreshing water springs of Satdhaara Falls, which are known to have therapeutic properties or go for a romantic boat ride in the Chamera Lake while soaking your souls in serene beauty of the setting sun. A trip to Dalhousie remains incomplete without a visit to the Chamunda Devi Temple that dates back to over 750 years, and is dedicated to Goddess Kali.

Best time to visit: March to June

Things/activities to do: Sightseeing, boating, trekking, camping

Distance from Delhi: 560 km

Nearest Airport: Pathankot Airport, 85 km away from Dalhousie
Book Now: Himachal Tour Packages From Kolkata

The picturesque hill valley enveloped by misty clouds, long winding roads, dense deodar forests and soaring pine & chestnut trees, is frequently visited by tourists owing to its aura of blissfulness and exquisiteness.

The valley separates India from Tibet, and is an adventure lover’s paradise, with the famed Spiti trek drawing thousands of adventure enthusiasts every year. The mountain ropeway from Kibber to Chichum is operated manually and is popular tourist attraction providing for spectacular views of the gorge below.

Best time to visit: March to July

Things/activities to do: Trekking, photography, camping

Distance from Delhi: 1,023 km

Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, 245 km from Spiti Valley
Also Book: Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages From Bangalore

Situated along the banks of River Parvati, Kasol is a popular tourist hub for trekkers, backpackers, and nature lovers. Commonly known as the ‘Amsterdam of India’, this quaint little village is replete with natural scenic beauty, stunning view of the snow-capped mountains and gushing waterfalls in the background. It is famous for its trekking trails, which include treks to Kheerganga, Yanker Pass, Pin Parbati Pass and Sar Pass.

Since the place is inhabited by a huge number of people from Israel, don’t forget to try the locally available Israeli food at one of the many street side cafes. You can shop at the flea market that sells a variety of items like trinkets, souvenirs, semi-precious stones and other knick knacks.

Best time to visit: October to June

Things/activities to do: Trekking, camping, shopping, photography

Distance from Delhi: 513 km

Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, 31 km from Kasol
Must Book: Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages From Chennai

Sitting at a height of 2,500 metres, Mashobra is another popular hill stations in Himachal that boasts of glorious natural scenery spanning thick forests, beautiful fruit orchards, splendid Himalayan views and a blissful climate round the year. Mashobra is one of the best places to visit in summers, offering an array of interesting outdoor activities including boating, horse-riding, paragliding, trekking, mountain biking, camping, quad biking and wildlife spotting.

Don’t forget to visit Carignano, an old villa perched at 7,700 feet, constructed of wood and flanked by numerous water streams and woods of tall pines, oaks and cedars and the 9th century old Mahasu Devta temple on the Mahasu Peak. If you are keen to seek for more of a relaxing holiday in the lap of Mother Nature, you can indulge in leisurely strolls along the tree-shaded walkways and nature trails.

Best time to visit: March to June and December to February for snowfall

Things/activities to do: Camping, temple visit, trekking, sightseeing

Distance from Delhi: 353 km

Nearest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport, Shimla, 21 km from Mashobra
Also Checkout: Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages From Surat

Fragrant fruit orchards, bountiful scenic landscape and a serene ambience to relax and unwind yourselves, Parwanoo is an idyllic destination in Himachal that lures innumerable tourists every summer. Located in close proximity to Chandigarh, it boasts of many activities meant to revel yourself in pristine aura of the place while enjoying the luxuriant valley sitting in the thrilling cabin car ride operated by the Timber Trail Resort.

If you wish for a spiritual experience, pay a visit to the highly revered Mansa Devi temple, located on an elevated hill top, offering divine breathtaking views of the town below. You can also visit the Cactus Garden which houses over 3,500 species of cacti and succulents and is a treat for nature lovers and botanists. Don’t forget to leave the town without trying the delicious meat pickles, fresh jams, jellies and marmalades of the region at Dhalli, half an hour drive from Parwanoo.

Best time to visit: Round the year

Things/activities to do: Trekking, sightseeing, nature photography

Distance from Delhi: 266 km

Nearest Airport: Chandigarh Airport, 30 km from Parwanoo

Also Checkout & Book: Shimla Package

Located on the Hindustan Tibet road, Narkanda is one of the best places in Himachal for skiing and snowboarding. The calm and peaceful ambience surrounded by forests and woodlands overwhelms travelers and the expansive snow-covered meadows become a perfect spot for winter sports.

Major tourist attractions here include Hatu peak, Jubbar Lake and Mahamaya temple. Narkanda also houses a lake, Tannu Jabar Lake which is one of the most important tourist attractions here. One can also spot several trekking routes that offer a panoramic view of the town and all adventure lovers travelling to this town should try it.

Best time to visit: Round the year

Things/activities to do: Camping, paragliding, trekking, sightseeing, snowboarding, skiing

Distance from Delhi: 404 km

Nearest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport, Shimla, 155 km from Narkanda

You Can Also Visit: Shimla honeymoon tour

Also Checkout: Yarra Valley Wine Tours 

Popularly known as the ‘Tea Capital of North India’, Palampur is a beautiful town on the foothills of the snow-clad Dhauladhar ranges in Himachal and attracts hordes of nature lovers, holiday-seekers and honeymoon couples wanting to spend a secluded holiday somewhere in the lap of Himalayas, untouched and unscathed from the crowds of other conventional Himachal hill stations. The aromatic tea gardens, sparkling and cascading streams, pleasant weather, dense pine forests and Victorian style mansions and castles assure a super exotic and romantic holiday.

You can also go on a trekking expedition to the ancient Kangra Fort or wander into a journey of wilderness at the Dhauladhar National Park that houses the native Himalayan wildlife like red fox, sambar deer and Angora rabbits. For spiritual seekers, the renowned Chamunda Devi temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, and one of the 51 Shakti Peethas across the world, is a must-visit religious site.

Best time to visit: March to June and Mid-September to November

Things/activities to do: Camping, paragliding, trekking, sightseeing

Distance from Delhi: 487 km

Nearest Airport: Dharamsala Kangra Airport, 25 km from Palampur

You can Also Book: Shimla Package For Family
You Can Checkout Great Discounts On Theme Parks Australia

A tranquil little saucer-shaped grassland popped away in Dhauladhar ranges of western Himalayas, Khajjiar is truly a piece of heaven. Its untouched natural beauty, verdant forests of Cedar and Pine and a small peaceful lake cradling right in the center, has accorded it the name ‘Mini Switzerland of India’. You can choose from multiple activities while you are here like paragliding, horse-riding, zorbing and boating.

Right next to the lake sits the Golden Devi Temple which gets its name from the golden colored dome it is crowned with is a must visit for all spiritual seekers. The Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary located at a short distance from Khajjiar, calls passionate trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts to come over and indulge themselves in enthralling experiences of wildlife spotting, bird-watching, jungle safaris and nature photography. You can also visit the nine-hole golf-course which is nestled in the midst of lush greenery and a picturesque landscape.

Best time to visit: February to November

Things/activities to do: Paragliding, horse riding, zorbing, trekking, sightseeing

Distance from Delhi: 571 km

Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport, Dharamshala, 120 km from Khajjiar
You May Also Book: Tour Packages From Delhi To Shimla
Also Checkout: Islands In Thailand

Kinnaur, often referred to as the ‘Land of Fairytales’ is one of the most beautiful Himachal hill stations flanked by Tibet on one side and featuring emerald green valleys, flower covered pastures, majestic snow-crowned peaks, alpine villages and striking apple and peach orchards and vineyards. Kinnaur makes for a perfect vacation whether you are looking for a laid-back holiday, an adventurous vacation or a spiritual retreat.

The enticing trails of Sangla Valley are the focal point for adventure enthusiasts offering them some great options for river rafting, paragliding, angling and fishing. There are also few interesting religious sites in Kinnaur like the serene Narayan-Nagini temple and the ancient Hu-Bu-Lan-Kar gompa that reflect a strong Tibetan culture. The Rakcham Chitkul Wildlife Sanctuary houses Himalayan Blue Sheep, Musk Deer, Himalayan Black Bear, Red Fox and Snow Leopards.

Best time to visit: April to November

Things/activities to do: Sightseeing, trekking, temple visit, wildlife photography, boating

Distance from Delhi: 599 km

Nearest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport, Shimla, 267 km from Kinnaur
Book Now: Shimla Tour Package From Kolkata

Looking for yet another picnic spot near Delhi? Head to Tattapani, the land of hot water spring, which is known to have religious significance and makes for a memorable holiday weekend. Relax, immerse and soak yourself with peace and happiness after visiting this place or take a holy dip to wash off your sins and achieve absolution and sheer bliss. The hot sulfur springs near the bank of river Sutlej are believed to have medicinal properties, offering relief from acute body aches and fatigue.

While you are there, don’t forget to walk up and pay homage at the Shiva Caves, which are less than a 10 minutes’ drive from Tattapani. It also treasures several attractions lying amid nature and various venturesome activities like trekking, river rafting and rock climbing.

Best time to visit: September to March

Things/activities to do: Sightseeing, rafting, photography, camping

Distance from Delhi: 364 km

Nearest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport, Shimla, 68 km from Tattapani

The little hill town of Chamba makes for an ideal retreat for those seeking a blissful holiday combined with some unparalleled spiritual experience. Chamba is home to several sacred shrines and temples dating back to as early as 4th century providing an unmatched sensation of divinity and mysticism. Visit the famous Laxmi Narayan temple which houses six shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Shiva and features exquisite architecture embellished with wooden chhatris, metallic sculptures and gold covered pinnacles.

The Champavati temple is another beautiful temple in the town that makes for one of the must see places here. If you wish to indulge in something adventurous, try river rafting, trekking to Manimahesh Peak and river-crossing along the River Ravi.

Best time to visit: March to June

Things/activities to do: Sightseeing, rafting, boating, Lake visit

Distance from Delhi: 597 km

Nearest Airport: Pathankot Airport, 120 km from Chamba

Checkout & Book:  Tour Packages From Chennai To Shimla

The impressive hamlet of Nahan, cradled amidst the snow-covered Shivalik Himalayan Range, is one of the lesser known hill stations in Himachal. Away from the dreary life of the crowded cities, it is blessed with lush green meadows, perfect climate, winding trails, gorgeous streams and lakes and a dreamy and romantic ambience. The town is bestowed with a number of vintage temples, an artificial lake Rani Tal and the natural and stunning Renuka Lake that contribute to the list of major tourist attractions in the city.

For those seeking some dose of adventure, Nahan makes a good base for treks in upper reaches of Himachal, from where you can trek to Churdhar Peak. Also, the renowned Sikh temple, Paonta Sahib Gurudwara lies at an hour’s drive from Nahan and makes for a captivating spiritual retreat for all the distressed souls. Other tourist attractions here include Suketi Fossil Park and the majestic Jaitak Fort.

Best time to visit: Round the year

Things/activities to do: Sightseeing, boating, Lake visit, trekking

Distance from Delhi: 249 km

Nearest Airport: Chandigarh Airport, 50 km from Nahan
Also Checkout & Book: Shimla Tour Packages From Chennai

Surrounded by lofty Kinnaur-Kailash Range, Kalpa is one of the best hill stations in Himachal, and a favourite destination for bikers owing to its jaw dropping scenic vistas and stunning greenery all around. It is also known for its many beautiful temples, monasteries and striking apple orchards.

Major tourist attractions in Kalpa include Roghi Village, Kamru Fort, Suicide Point, Sapni Fort and Basteri. Adorned with rich flora and fauna, this small hamlet is one of the must visit hill stations in Himachal.

Best time to visit: June to October

Things/activities to do: Sightseeing, nature trails, trekking

Distance from Delhi: 566 km

Nearest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport, Shimla, 276 km from Kalpa

Undoubtedly one of the most enchanting Himachal hill stations, Tirthan Valley truly presents nature in its unadulterated form. Surrounded by numerous hikes and nature walks, this beautiful valley is situated beside the Tirthan River and should definitely feature in your list of Himachal hill stations. Tirthan valley is an amazing place to relax in the lap of Mother Nature, sans the touristy-rush and high-end commercialization. Spring and early summers is supposed to be the best time to visit this hill station.

when the beauty amplifies manifold with blooming flowers and fruit laden orchards that look stunning along the swift flowing water of the Tirthan River. Also, pay a visit to the Great Himalayan National Park where you can experience a wide range of adventure activities like hiking, camping, trekking, fishing and paragliding or opt for day hikes in the bridle paths of the park and stroll in the village or woods around it.

Best time to visit: March to July

Things/activities to do: Sightseeing, photography, camping

Distance from Delhi: 489 km

Nearest Airport: Bhuntar Airport, 48 km from Tirthan Valley

You Can Also Book: Shimla Honeymoon Packages From Delhi

Kaza boasts of barbed mountain peaks, sparkling rivers & streams and small patches of green and is one of the favorite hill stations in Himachal. The bucolic hill town provides for some challenging mountainous terrain for experienced trekkers and hikers, including ‘Pin-Parvati’, ‘Parang-La’, ‘Kunzum Pass’, ‘Pin-Bhaba’ and ‘Chandratal’. Apart from trekking, you can also indulge in the adventure of river rafting over the roaring waters of the Spiti River or opt for relaxing nature walks around pristine villages of Kibber, Komic, and Dhankar.

There are also a bunch of quaint old monasteries and gompas located in and around Kaza, of which Tabo Monastery and Ki Gompa are by far the greatest captivator for numerous art-lovers, historians and cultural seekers. If you happen to visit Kaza during June-July time, lock your dates around the Ladarcha fair, a flamboyant extravaganza of Tibetan culture featuring dance performances, competitions and delectable food to treat your taste buds.

Best time to visit: April to October

Things/activities to do: Sightseeing, temple visit, trekking

Distance from Delhi: 1,028 km

Nearest Airport: Kullu–Manali Airport, Bhuntar, 250 km from Kaza

One of the most charming hill stations in Himachal, Sangla is a perfect getaway from the hustle bustle of the swarming cities flanked by strapping mountain slopes, sprawling verdant forests, snow covered peaks, red apples orchard and luscious cherry trees. Baspa River passes through the place, meandering and burbling and is famous for trout fishing. Sangla is dotted with several attractions from ancient temples and forts to nearby villages.

Places to visit here include the lush, sprawling Sangla Meadow, Chitkul, Kamru Fort, Bering Nag Temple, Batseri Village and the magnificent Tibetan Wood Carving Center.

Best time to visit: March to November

Things/activities to do: Sightseeing, trekking, nature photography, river crossing, trout fishing, rappelling, camping by the river side

Distance from Delhi: 565 km

Nearest Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport, Shimla, 238 km from Sangla

Jibhi is a hidden gem in Banjar or Tirthan valley of Himachal Pradesh on the scenic Chandigarh-Manali highway. The little hamlet has some extremely beautiful and affordable Victorian pinewood cottages for people to unwind and relax overlooking the dense pine forests, tranquil freshwater lakes, pristine temples and variegated mountain peaks. Backpackers and fishing and angling enthusiasts from across the world make Jibhi their home for months owing to its charm and proximity to various other Himalayan towns.

You can also consider the Chaini Fort trek and Sharingi Bagi temple trek. Chaini village is popular for its ancient structures which are inspired from Chinese art and archaeology, and is a 3 to 4 hours trek from Jibhi. Major places to visit in Jibhi include Jalori Pass, peaceful Serolsar Lake, Jibhi Waterfall, resplendent Chaini Fort and Shringa Rishi temple.

Best time to visit: October to April

Things/activities to do: Sightseeing, trekking, camping, rappelling

Distance from Delhi: 492 km

Nearest Airport: Kullu–Manali Airport, Bhuntar, 60 km from Jibhi

Checkout More: Shimla Tour Packages From Bangalore

The unadulterated natural bounty of Shoja located midway between Shimla and Kullu, makes for one of the best nature holiday destinations in the Himalayan region. The Jalori Pass located at a short distance away from the heart of the city is the prime attraction here and offers some great views of the distant snow-capped Dhauladhar ranges. If you wish to indulge in a nice camping experience in Shoja, trek some 6 km ahead of Jalori Pass until you reach the beautiful Serolsar Lake, cradled amidst thick woods of oaks and shadowed by mighty Himalayan peaks.

An old temple dedicated to the guardian deity of the region is also a must visit during your camping at the lake side. For nature lovers, the Waterfall Point with its splendid spectacle is also a captivating site to sit back, relax and immerse your souls in sweet chattering of birds like Indian blue robins, white-throated tits, golden orioles and hill pigeons that abound the area.

Best time to visit: July to October

Things/activities to do: Sightseeing, nature photography, bird watching, overnight camping, nature trails

Distance from Delhi: 498 km

Nearest Airport: Kullu–Manali Airport, Bhuntar, 8 km from Shoja

Also Check: Shimla Tour Package From Pune

One of the lesser known Himachal hill stations, Hamirpur lies deep inside the beautiful Kangra valley and makes for one of the best weekend getaways from Delhi and Punjab. This quaint and quiet little town with its natural beauty and cultural spectacle offers great scope for trekking and other adventure activities like hiking, rock-climbing, paragliding, angling and river rafting. It also houses myriad temples and religious places that offer a memorable time to all the spiritually inclined.

The most significant of all the sacred shrines in Hamirpur is the Deotsidh temple dedicated to Baba Balak Nath, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, and is thronged by devotees from far and wide. It also provides invigorating sights of the flanking Himalayan peaks and the serene Govind Sagar Lake. You can also visit the neighboring town of Nadaun, which is a treasure trove for art lovers and showcases some of the classiest Kangra paintings you will ever get to see. Other major tourist attractions here include Sujanpura Tila, Gauri Shankar temple and Narvadeshwar temple.

Best time to visit: Round the year

Things/activities to do: Sightseeing, angling, rafting, temple visit, camping, trekking

Distance from Delhi: 420 km

Nearest Airport: Gaggal Airport, Dharamshala, 75 km from Hamirpur

Must Book: Shimla Tour Package From Ahmedabad