The State of Hill-Stations, Adventure and Weekend Getaways
North India is a geographically and culturally diverse region in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent. It is one of the most vibrant, historically rich, and populous parts of India. Here’s an overview of the key aspects of North India:
Known for several adventurous activities, Himachal Pradesh is popular for rafting, paragliding, boating and ice-skating. For history buffs, the age-old historical architectures and Victorian churches in Himachal Pradesh endow it an English feel.
Tempting with several off-beat destinations, it is definitely a paradise during peak summer months. Weekend getaway tours along with the solitude it imparts, makes it a budding romantic destination. Tourists can buy popular shopping souvenirs like Kullu Shawls, Himachal caps, jackets, and metal-ware as well as silver jewellery and leather items.
Following are the main tourist attractions in Himachal Pradesh
Rohtang Pass
Popularly called as the ‘Incredible Paradise’, it attracts more than one million tourists every year. It is an adventure spot, evolving as the pride of Himachal Pradesh. Located at an altitude of 13,050 ft, it is situated on the Leh-Manali Highway. Internationally acknowledged as ‘one of the highest mountain passes in the world’, it is famous for trekking and skiing opportunities. Interestingly, one can spot snow at Rohtang Pass even during summers.
This world’s highest jeep-able road is generally open from May to November. Few famous treks include Manali to Lahaul as well as Shimla - Jalori Pass - Rohtang Pass trek (known for horse-riding options), Gulaba-Bhrigu Lake and Manali-Rohtang Pass-Batal trek.
Chamba
Locally called as the ‘Valley of Milk’, this famous hill-station in Himachal Pradesh is known for being the best summer getaway. Few famous adventure activities in Chambal include snow skiing, river rafting and trekking. The tourist attractions in Chamba include temples, meadows, streams, paintings and lakes.
The hand-woven textiles and wooden handicrafts of Chamba are popular. The bygone rulers had encouraged the development of art and designing in this hamlet, still visible in Pahari paintings of Chamba. Also spot the remnants of British architecture with presence of Scottish Church.
Shimla
Previously the ‘Summer Capital’ of British India, it is a famous hill-station in India. Enveloped in rhododendron, oak and pine trees, it is rightly called as the ‘Queen of Hill Stations.’ The main tourist attractions in Shimla include Jakhoo Hill, the Shimla Ridge, Shimla State Museum, Summer Hill and Annandale.
It is also famous for picnic spots like Green Valley, surrounded by pine trees on the way to Kufri. One can simply relax and have a bird’s eye view of the snow-capped mountains. One can also opt for yak riding and horse riding in Shimla.
Manali
A popular hill-station in India, it is known for trekking, skiing, heli-skiing, rock climbing, waterfalls, snow scooters and mountaineering. Heavy snowfall makes it a favourite tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh. Suitable for leisure travel and weekend getaways, it is also a famous romantic destination in India.
Tourists visit the Hidimba Temple, a pagoda-style temple constructed in 16th century. A casual stroll at Van Vihar, the nature park is a good idea to rejuvenate. Nothing beats the peace and tranquillity felt while sitting at the stones, overlooking the Beas River and hearing the soft gurgling of water passing by.
Dharamsala
Located at the foothills of Dhauladhar Ranges, this hill-station is famous for housing the Tibetan refugees in McLeod Ganj, known for various tourist attractions like residence of 14th Dalai Lama, Buddhist monasteries, Tibetan cafes and handicraft items. It is popularly called as the ‘Scotland of India.’
Tourists often visit Dharamsala and McLeod Gang to undertake philosophy and Buddhist meditation courses. One can also learn Tibetan cooking as well as undertake in volunteering opportunities in Dharamsala.
Dalhousie
Brimming with the colonial ambience, architecture and Victorian feel, this hill-station is quite sought after by those searching for off-beat destinations, weekend getaways and leisure travel options. Trekking in this hill resort from through Khajjiar-Chamba-Khajjiar path is very famous.
Indulge in Dalhousie travel is known for shopping Tibetan carpets and Kullu shawls. It is famous for cascading waterfalls, picturesque mountains and gorgeous landscapes. Do not miss to explore Katalope, Bakrota Hills, Garam Sadak, Ganji Pahari and Pachpula during Dalhousie Travel.
Famous Cuisines of Himachal Pradesh
It has a blend of Tibetan and Punjabi style of cooking. The popular dishes include Bhagjery, Chouck and Pateer. The best dishes are Siddu and Indra. The lip-smacking non-vegetarian dishes are Chicken Anaardana, Grilled Fishes and Kullu Trout.
Festivals in Himachal Pradesh
The popular festivals include Baisakhi (April), Dussehra (October) and Phulaich (September).
Excursion in Himachal Pradesh
Tourists can explore nearby destinations to Shimla such as Kufri (16 km), Fagu (22 km), Naldehra (22km), Chail (45 km) and Narkanda (60km).
When to Reach
The peak season for Himachal Pradesh Travel are May and June during the summer break. For those looking forward for skiing and winter sports, embarking on a trip to Himachal Pradesh from November to January is also adventurous.
How to Reach
Air: The three main airports in Himachal Pradesh are Bhuntar near Kullu, Gaggal near Kangra and Jabbarhatti near Shimla.
Rail: The two narrow gauge railway lines are at Pathankot - Joginder Nagar and Kalka – Shimla.
Road: Regular inter/intra-state buses are available for exploring the state. One can even book taxis and cabs for regular transport.
So, be it experiencing snow in scorching summer season or just adventurous treks, make sure that your trip to Himachal Pradesh works this time, for sure.