Himachal Pradesh is probably one of the most divine and beautiful locations in the country. Blessed with lofty mountains, lush greenery, rivers, valle
Himachal Pradesh is probably one of the most divine and beautiful locations in the country. Blessed with lofty mountains, lush greenery, rivers, valleys, finest marijuana, warm people of Himachal Pradesh is the much-needed respite from the dispiriting hustle of the city life.
Our imagination and knowledge of Himachal Pradesh somehow limit around few famous locations alone such as Shimla, Kullu, Manali or the recently hyped Kasol. Himachal Pradesh may look like a minuscule state in the map of India but is blessed with vast and varied scenic beauties. Let’s explore some of the places to visit in Himachal Pradesh which are beyond its few famous names:
-
Chitkul
Why Visit- Last village on the Indo-Tibet border that can be explored by the travelers
Chitkul is truly a heaven in the lap of Himalayas. Located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, it is one of the most scenic locations of Himachal Pradesh and an offbeat destination. A small village characterized by traditional Kath Kuni houses of Himachal Pradesh, fruit laden orchards, rivers and brooks, and breathtaking scenic beauty, this village is also known as the last inhabited village on the Indo-Tibet border. It’s a beautiful place.
-
Barot
Why visit- For fishing and angling activities on the surreal banks of river Uhl
Barot is another jewel in the crown of Himachal Pradesh. Located in the Mandi district, Barot is a paradise for nature lovers. Blessed with lush green terraced farms, cedar trees and breathtaking vistas of the mountains, Barot is a dream come true. The village is home to a breeding center for the famous Trout fishes of the state and is also developing as a popular angling center. Angling is a method of fishing using fishing hooks known as the angle. Siraj valley in Mandi district provides incomparable trekking trails and experiences to adventurers as the trek takes through most rustic villages and scenic landscapes. The Uhl river meanders through this picturesque village making it all the more beautiful. Situated on the banks of river Uhl, Nargu wildlife sanctuary plays a prominent role in attracting tourists in this region.
- Must Read:- 10 Best Place to Visit in Auli
-
Kalpa
Why visit- To marvel at the hidden beauty and Buddhist culture of Kinnaur
Kalpa is a fairly large settlement in the Kinnaur District. The most spectacular vistas you will probably get to watch from here is that of the Kailash Mountain basking in its absolute glory. Abode of many ancient Buddhist Monasteries, Kalpa boasts of apple orchards, the relentlessly flowing River Sutlej, chilgoza forests that combined together make it a hamlet of sorts.
-
Narkanda
Why visit- To escape the crowd of Shimla and enjoy the snow-clad sceneries in peace
Located in the Shimla district, Narkanda is a paradise for all the snow lovers. Known best for its breathtaking vistas of snow clad mountains and a popular spot for skiing during the winters, Narkanda manages to exude an unbeatable charm. Abundant in apple and cherry plantations, Narkanda is also picturesque during the spring months that adorn the region with apple and cherry blossoms. The roads of Narkanda are not for the faint-hearted as they’re super narrow and the local cab drivers drive like they’re in a race (no kidding). Narkanda is at a distance of 60Km from Shimla and 350 Km from Spiti valley. When in Narkanda, don’t forget to buy Himachali shawls, caps and blankets from there.
- Suggested Post:- 10 Best Places to Visit in Shimla in India
-
Thanedar
Why visit- For the abundance of apple and cherry orchards.
Known as the main apple belt of Himachal Pradesh, Thanedar is downright heavenly. Thanedar is the most unknown destination out of all the destinations listed here. Mainly known for its apple, strawberry and cherry cultivation, spring months are an absolute delight to visit Thanedar when everything turns into a colorful cornucopia. A dreamy little hamlet surrounded by mountains, greenery, and loads of fruits, Thanedar will surely leave you captivated. If you’re looking for a soft adventure, long walks and short treks this is the place for you. Visit the place to get the experience of a lifetime.
-
Kalga
Why visit– For its picturesque offbeat treks
Located near Kasol and a little further away from Barshaini, Kalga is not for the regular tourist. Kalga is also popularly known as the “apple village”. This location is simply tranquillity redefined. The white snow clad mountains enveloping this scenic hamlet is something that will leave you gasping with delight. Not being a commercialized touristy location, Kalga can provide you with an authentic Himachali experience. Kalga is also located at a proximal distance from the scenic Tosh village and is a break point for the Kheerganga Trek. Once you visit this place, you’ll only be able to spot wooden houses with cattle.
-
Pulga
Why visit- A tranquil twin of Kasol with the same picturesque sceneries but untouched
Nestled in the lap of Parvati Valley is the Pulga village. Located near Barshaini, Pulga is another place you must see after Kalga. If you are seeking solitude and need to contemplate things in life, Pulga is where you must head to. Accommodation in Pulga is very limited so make sure to research well before going here. The food available here mainly is as per the foreigners’ preferences and you’ll be able to find very limited Indian dishes. You may not find fancy accommodations or a variety of cuisines to relish here in this part of Himachal Pradesh but you will definitely find serenity, amazing views to soak in and gather memorable experiences for a lifetime.
-
Shoghi
Why visit- For the offbeat adventure activities
This sleepy little hamlet is located at a mere distance of 13 km off the Shimla-Ambala Highway. Surrounded by green lofty mountains, towering trees, treacherous trails and tranquillity, Shoghi is no less than a utopia. Best suited for trekking, hiking, cycling and various other outdoor activities, Shoghi is apt for an amazing getaway amidst the hills. Imagine what it would be like, camping in this area with all the serenity and calm! Shogi also has a lot of stunning temples which you shouldn’t miss when there.
-
Tirthan Valley
Why visit- For the rustic beauty of mountains, local culture and adventure activities
Located in Kullu district, Tirthan Valley is the utopia we all would love discover someday. It is an off-beat valley and is nothing like a usual valley one might visit. Fed by the beautiful Tirthan river and blessed with breathtaking vistas, Tirthan Valley is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers and solitude addicts. There are a number of activities that you can indulge in Tirthan Valley such as trekking, hiking, fishing and can also immerse yourself in the local culture. Lush greenery, snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes and divine tranquillity characterise this neverland. The nearby locations which attract attention of tourists are Kullu valley, Seraj valley, Great Himalayan National Park and a ride through Jalori pass.
-
Karsog
Why visit- For breathtaking views, ancient temples and traditional architecture
Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas in the Pir Panjal Range, Karsog is a small town near Shimla in the Mandi district. Karsog also finds its mention in the epic Mahabharata as the town that regularly mourned the death of a village person who used to be killed for food by a demon who resided here. The villagers were later rescued by Bhima (one of the Pandava kings) who killed the demon. Known for its ancient temples, apple orchards, traditional Himachali architecture and captivating views of the multiple Himalayan peaks, Karsog is a nothing less than a paradise.
So now that you know Himachal Pradesh has some more amazing hidden treasures which one is next going to be on your travel list?
