10 Best Places in Himachal Pradesh & What to Do
If you’re dreaming of misty mountains, cozy cafés, and adrenaline-pumping adventures, Himachal Pradesh is calling your name. Whether you’re a nature lover, a thrill-seeker, or just someone who wants to disconnect and chill, here’s your go-to list of the top 10 places in Himachal—and what you absolutely can’t miss while you’re there.
1. Manali – Snow, Serenity & Scenic Views
Things to Do in Manali:
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Paragliding in Solang Valley
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Visit Hadimba Temple
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Relax in Vashisht hot springs
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Café hopping in Old Manali
Travel Tip: Visit between October and February for snowfall.
Image Suggestion: Snow-covered Solang Valley with paragliders in the sky
📌 2. Shimla – The Queen of Hills
Things to Do in Shimla:
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Toy train ride from Kalka
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Sunset at Scandal Point
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Explore Mall Road & Christ Church
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Visit Jakhoo Temple
Travel Tip: Take the toy train ride early in the morning for the best views.
Image Suggestion: Colonial architecture on Mall Road
📌 3. Kasol – The Backpacker’s Paradise
Things to Do in Kasol:
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Trek to Kheerganga
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Chill by the Parvati River
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Explore local Israeli cafés
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Visit Tosh and Malana villages
Travel Tip: Avoid monsoon season due to slippery trails.
Image Suggestion: A peaceful riverbank with tents or cafés
📌 4. Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj – Spiritual Escape
Things to Do in Dharamshala:
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Visit the Dalai Lama Temple
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Trek to Triund
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Take a yoga or meditation class
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Try Tibetan food
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the sunset view from Triund Hill.
Image Suggestion: Monks walking in front of the monastery
📌 5. Bir Billing – For the Love of Flying
Things to Do in Bir Billing:
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Paragliding over the Dhauladhar range
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Visit Sherabling Monastery
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Explore local cafés
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Go mountain biking
Travel Tip: October is the best time for paragliding festivals.
Image Suggestion: A paraglider mid-air with mountains below
📌 6. Spiti Valley – The Cold Desert of India
Things to Do in Spiti Valley:
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Visit Key Monastery
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Camp near Chandratal Lake
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Send a postcard from Hikkim (world’s highest post office)
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Stargazing at night
Travel Tip: Only visit between June and September as roads close in winter.
Image Suggestion: Spiti landscapes with monasteries on cliff edges
📌 7. Tirthan Valley – A Hidden Gem
Things to Do in Tirthan:
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Trout fishing
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Trek to Serolsar Lake
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Stay in riverside homestays
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Explore the Great Himalayan National Park
Travel Tip: Ideal for those seeking solitude and nature.
Image Suggestion: A quiet riverside or wooden cottage in nature
📌 8. Kasauli – Colonial Charm & Pine Forests
Things to Do in Kasauli:
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Walk through pine trails
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Visit Monkey Point
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Explore Gilbert Trail
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Taste local fruit wines
Travel Tip: Ideal for a peaceful weekend getaway.
Image Suggestion: Sunset over pine trees and colonial bungalows
📌 9. Chitkul – India’s Last Inhabited Village
Things to Do in Chitkul:
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Walk along the Baspa River
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Interact with locals
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Try local Rajma-Chawal
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Photography in the snow-clad village
Travel Tip: Visit in summer for clear views and accessible roads.
Image Suggestion: Scenic shot of Chitkul village with mountain backdrop
📌 10. Dalhousie & Khajjiar – Switzerland of India
Things to Do:
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Walk through Khajjiar meadows
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Boating at Chamera Lake
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Explore St. John’s Church
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Horse riding in pine forests
Travel Tip: Perfect for family vacations and honeymooners.