February 5, 2024
If we are to talk about India's much-admired and lauded tourist destinations, Himachal Pradesh comes to mind first. Providing warmth to mind and soul, it is nestled in the lap of snow-capped Himalayan mountains. The state calls out the hearts of many travel wanderers from every corner of the world. A trip to the places to visit in Himachal Pradesh will undoubtedly be inscribed in your memories for a lifetime.
Be it the serene lakes, lush greenery, or gorgeous hills, on your visit to Himachal Pradesh, you will be taken aback by the scenic views. While the main attractions are the gorgeous hills, ancient Montessori, and serene lakes, if there is an explorer within you, you can always make the trips by planning for the offbeat destinations In Himachal Pradesh.
Himachal offers exclusive Dalhousie tour packages that treat the nature-lover and explorer with an offbeat treat to Himachal Pradesh destinations.
In this blog, we will take you through the 25 best offbeat places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. Take a look!
It is a treat to visit this place as Malana is acknowledged to be one of the most beautiful villages in India. There are many great stories about this beautiful place. A majority of Malana's legends have discussed that it has been there for ages. It is situated in the valley of Parvati and is known as the home to a few families who have stayed there for a long time.
It is believed that Alexander's great descendants are the ones who are living there. Additionally, this place has its own set of laws and regulations, which seem to be similar to the Greek management system. It is one of the 'Himachal Pradesh best places to visit.'
Location: Northeast of the Kullu Valley
How To Reach: The Rashol Pass trek will take you around 10 hours from Manikaran, and the beautiful Chanderkhani Pass trek is a 2-day journey.
Key Attractions: Chalal Trekking Trail, Jamula Devta Temple.
Also Read: 15 Best Places to Enjoy Snowfall in February in India
Speaking of Himachal tourist places, an offbeat trip is not complete without a visit to Tirthan Valley and understanding nature to its purest form. The beautiful valley, which is surrounded by the Great Himalayan National Park, is next to the Tirthan River. It is considered one of the hidden gems of the Himalayas. The place is ideal for folks to relax in nature's lap. For any travel wanderers who are looking for offbeat destinations In Himachal Pradesh, a trip to Tirthan Valley is a must!
Location: This Himachal Pradesh tourist spot is located in Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the two valleys in the town of Banjar.
How To Reach: While coming from Delhi or Chandigarh via bus, get down at Aut and consider taking a cab or a local bus to Banjar or Jibhi.
Key Attractions: Waterfalls, Serloskar Lake
Also Read: Explore Delhi to Manali Trains: Stations, Routes, and Scenic Journeys
Speaking of offbeat places to visit in Himachal, Chitkul is a small village that is nestled in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. It is actually the last populated village closer to the Indo-Tibet border and at a height of 3450 meters. It is also the last spot in India where you can travel without a VISA. Among many travelers, it is known as the coldest place in Himachal Pradesh.
While it is a great journey from Sangla, where river Baspa is a constant companion, one thing that is the most adventurous is that the weather is harsh and cold, and you cannot predict it ever. It is one of the best tourist places in Himachal Pradesh.
Location: It is a small village in Kinnaur district,
How To Reach: There are a lot of HRTC buses that go to the coldest places in Himachal Pradesh.
Key Attractions: Mathi Temple, Lalan Ti.
Also Read: 35 Best Places To Visit In March In India 2024
Just in case you haven’t yet decided to finalize the Palampur tour packages, and are looking for something offbeat, here we have an option for you. With a vivid mixture of nature and scenic beauty, Pabbar Valley is a must-see on every tour of the best places to visit in Himachal. It offers something for everyone who walks its way. In addition to rapid brooks, its fruit orchards and scenic hamlets were sufficient to draw British viceroys who camped and rested here. From camping to rafting and any other activities, you will have the time of your life on your visit to the Pabbar Valley.
Location: Theog - Hatkoti - Rohru Road, Rohru, Himachal Pradesh 171207
How To Reach: National Highway 22 runs near Pabbar Valley. Therefore, this best tourist place in Himachal is accessible through buses.
Key Attractions: Saru Trek, Chandernahan Trek
Also Read: 30 Places To Visit In February In India 2024
It is one of the unexplored places in Himachal. With gorgeous cherry and apple orchards, Thanedar is perfect for nature lovers who want to have a little time to themselves on their trip to offbeat destinations In Himachal Pradesh. You can fulfill your dream of plucking fruits from the trees as this place supplies lakhs of fruit cartons with juicy apples across the nation and the world. It is considered one of the best places for couples who are looking for offbeat Honeymoon packages in India.
Location: It is approximately 82 km away from Shimla and is above 7700 ft above sea level.
How To Reach: This unexplored place in Himachal is 82 km away from Shimla. Therefore, a drive in a private car is ideal.
Key attractions: Hira Mahal Palace and Apple and Cherry orchards.
Also Read: 35 Best Wedding Destinations in India for Your Dream Celebration
Popular for the sunset tour and Serloskar Lake, the beautiful place is located in the valley of Seraj. It is a must for those who are looking for one of the unique places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. You can go for a soothing stroll or explore the system in the rejuvenating lands.
From here, it is a short walk to the falls, where someone can indulge and enjoy a bath or just bask in the sun while enjoying a drink. It is also considered a great place for couples.
Location: Known as one of the unique places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, It is located in the valley of Seraj.
How To Reach: There are many direct buses to reach Shoja.
Key Attractions: Chehni Kothi, Raghupur Fort.
Also Read: 55 Best Places To Visit In North India With All Tourist Attractions
In addition to being a gorgeous place, Barot offers a wide range of outdoor activities. It is known as one of the unique places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. The Uhl River, located here, benefits wildlife and people. In addition to that, it is a trout spawning center. There are many fish ranches out here, which makes it popular for hunting. Across the river, Uhl, on both sides, is the Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary. The evergreen forest covers it as the home to deodar trees.
Location: It is located in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh
How To Reach: The nearest airport and railway station are in Pathankot, which is 188 km away from Barot. Mandi and Palampur are the major nearby towns from where you can reach Barot.
Key Attractions: Barot Temple, Uhl River
Also Read: 30 Most Romantic Places In The World
If you are looking for offbeat places to visit in Himachal, you simply cannot miss Gushaini. It is located near the Tirthan River in Kullu. It is nicknamed Trout Country because of how abundantly it produces trout.
Just 20 km from Gushaini, there is the National Fantastic Himalayan Park. It contains 300 species of birds and 30 species of animals. A hike through the all-natural cedar groves is a must for the visitors. The sheer beauty of Gushaini is a reason enough for it to be one of the best places to see in Himachal Pradesh.
Location: Considered one of the best tourist places in HP, it is located by the banks of the Tirthan River.
How To Reach: The closest airport is Bhuntar Airport, which is 55 km away. The Jogindernagar railway station, a toy train station, is 126 km away from Gushaini. However, the nearest major railway station is in Chandigarh, which is located 277 km from Gushaini.
Key Attractions: Great Himalayan National Park, Shringa Rishi Temple.
Also Read: 20 Best Snowfall Places In India You Must Visit
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It is considered one of the untouched places in Himachal. Kheerganga, which is tucked away in the Kullu district, is one of the most unique places in Himachal Pradesh. If you wish to get there on your exploration trip to Himachal Pradesh, you need to go up to Barsaini, from where you have to go on a four-long journey to Kheerganga.
If you are someone who likes to take offbeat tours from the major attractions of a destination, a Kheerganga trek is a must for you. It is one of the best places to go in Himachal.
Location: The Kheerganga trek will start from Barshaini; you have to trek 12 km from Barshaini to reach Kheerganga. After reaching Kheerganga
How To Reach: From Kasol, you have to travel to Barshaini, and from there, you have to trek 12 km to reach Kheerganga.
Key Attractions: The Fairy Forest, Parvati Valley
Also Read: 30 Best Places To Visit In Winter In India
Whether you are planning for 'offbeat Manali' or 'offbeat places in Manali', you have to consider Prashar Lake first. Situated at an altitude of 2730 meters and 49 km north of Mandi, Prashar Lake is one of the pristine attractions of hidden gems in Himachal. Among many travelers, it is considered the favorite offbeat destination in Himachal Pradesh. Even to this day, the lake has a depth that is now known to any human being. As it provides extreme seclusion and calmness, people who once visit this place will surely come back again and again. It is one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in December.
Location: One of the best places to visit in December in Himachal, it is located 49 km north of Mandi
How To Reach: Whether you are traveling from Chandigarh, Shimla, or Delhi, there are many buses available to reach Prashar Lake.
Key Attractions: Kulant Pith, Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara Monastery
Also Read: 30 Best Hill Stations in India You Must Visit
While you may like offbeat places near Manali, A long trip to Himachal Pradesh and not witnessing Flora and Fauna just doesn't make sense. Shogi is located very close to some of the most-visited locations in Himachal Pradesh. If you are on a long trip and trying to get out of the noise and bustle of traveling through the city, a detour to Shogi is a great idea indeed. It is a dream place for nature lovers and is only 13 km from Shimla. It is one of the offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh that is filled with floras and faunas.
Location: It is located at 5873 feet above sea level.
How To Reach: From Shimla, one can take a private car to reach them conveniently. However, travelers can also take a bus to reach Shoghi.
Key Attractions: Kendaghat, Chadwick Falls.
Also Read: Top 30 Honeymoon Destinations In India In Low Budget
Your journey to the best places to visit in Himachal is incomplete without visiting Kalpa. It is a prominent village in Kinnaur. It has been established as a part of the Sutlej River Valley. The village is home to many Monasteries and gorgeous temples. A trip to Kalpa is something that you will never forget. The village that is established alongside the Sutlej River with the Kinnaur-Kailash range at the backdrop offers a scenic view that will be inscribed in your memories forever.
Location: It is located on the Shimla-Kaza highway.
How To Reach: The closest major town is Shimla, home to the airport and railway station that is 243 km away from Kalpa. Government buses, shared taxis, and private cabs are available from Shimla and Delhi for Kalpa.
Key Attractions: Kamru Fort, Apple Orchards.
Also Read: 15 Best Places To Visit In Summer In India
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Among many offbeat destinations in Himachal Pradesh, Kaza is the most peaceful destination, nestled at the end of the mountains. You simply cannot get enough of this place because of its gorgeous rivers flowing around and mountains enveloping it. It is one of the most striking places in Himachal Pradesh, and a big part of it goes towards the lush greenery.
Location: Kaza is accessible from both Lahaul Valley and Kinnaur Valley.
How To Reach: This town is only accessible by road from both Shimla and Manali. The closest airport is in Bhuntar, which is 260 km away. The railway station is in Shimla, which is 422 km away.
Key Attractions: Kaza main market, Kibber Village.
Also Read: Best Places To Visit In India In April
Fagu is one of the districts of Shimla, and it is considered a must-see place on your trip to the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. If you are someone who is looking for an unusual outing or if you are looking for a much-needed detour from your long trip to Himachal Pradesh, Fagu is the place for you.
The district is nestled at an altitude of 2500 meters, and from there, it grants an amazing view when it snows. It is one of the core reasons why you should visit the district and move away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Because the clouds are so close, some people consider it as heaven on earth. Needless to say, Fagu is one of the sought-after destinations in quite a few trips including Spiti holiday tour packages.
Location: The nearest rail station is the Shimla rail station. Fagu is about 45 minutes drive from Shimla.
How To Reach: The closest airport is Jubbarhatti Airport. It is 38 km, and Shimla railway station is 20 km away from Fagu.
Key Attractions: Bhantia Devta Temple, The Retreat Building.
Also Read: Honeymoon In Manali: A 2024 Travel Guide
One of the best places in Himachal, Nahan is known for its picturesque beauty. Surrounded by dense, lush greenery, it is located in the Shivalik mountains. The quiet and gorgeous roads will make your evening and early morning strolls worthwhile. Back in 1621, this place was founded by Raja Karan Prakash. If you are visiting Himachal or considering Kasol tour packages for an exciting trip, don’t forget Nahan.
Location: It is located southeast of Shimla.
How To Reach: The cheapest way to reach New Delhi from Nahan is by train to Rajpura Jn, then by cab to Nahan, which takes 5 and 50 min. The fastest way to reach New Delhi from Nahan is a flight to Chandigarh International Airport, then a cab to Nahan, which takes 2 hours and 52 minutes.
Key Attractions: Treks, Renuka Lake.
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in India Before You Turn 30
Known as a culinary-rich place, it is one of the best Himachal places to visit. You can witness the thriving, beautiful nature and the bustling city. Enveloped right on the Himachal-Himalaya border, if anyone wishes for a tour of offbeat destinations in Himachal Pradesh, this holiday destination is something nobody should miss. From adventurous treks to Apple orchards, there are many activities available at this place.
Location: It is located above 760 meters elevation above sea level.
How To Reach: The fastest way to reach Parwanoo from New Delhi is a flight to Chandigarh International Airport, then a cab to Parwanoo, which takes 2 hours and 20 minutes.
Key Attractions: fruit orchards, Kali Mata temple
Also Read: 15 Best Places To Visit in May in India
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Speaking of offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh, your trip simply is not complete without a visit to Narkanda. It is one of those places that are admired for its beauty of greenery. Additionally, it can be a great place for fun activities like skiing. Something that makes the whole scenery unforgettable is the tropical forests.
Every corner of this gorgeous place in Himachal Pradesh is picturesque. Whether you are considering the best Manali tour packages or any Manali travel package for that matter, Narkanda must be on the list.
Location: Narkanda is a town and a nagar panchayat in the Kumarsain subdivision of Shimla district in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.
How To Reach: Narkanda is 60 km from Shimla. Therefore, you can take a personal car to visit this place. Alternatively, you can also consider trains as Shimla is the closest railway station.
Key Attractions: Hatu Peak, Stokes farm
Also Read: 50 Best Places To Visit in June in India
The place is mentioned in various Hindu texts. Your visit to Kangra would be one of the biggest spiritual tours of your life. The gorgeous nature of this place makes it one of the best offbeat places in Himachal. With the Beas River flowing through it, it is one of the most famous places in Himachal Pradesh. It is a must in any best Shimla tour package.
Location: Kangra, town, western Himachal Pradesh state, northwestern India, in an area at the southern edge of the Himalayan foothills drained by the Beas River.
How To Reach: The cheapest way to reach Kangra from New Delhi is by bus, which takes 8h 55m. The fastest way to reach Kangra from New Delhi is a flight to Kangra Airport, then a cab to Kangra, which takes 3 and 10m. The recommended way to reach New Delhi to Kangra is by bus to Kangra and takes 8h 55m.
Key Attractions: Jwala Devi Temple, Kangra Art Museum
Also Read: 30 Best Places For River Rafting in India
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If you are looking for the best offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh, you simply cannot keep Naggar out of that list. If you wish to try something adventurous amidst the lush greenery, Naggar is the place for you. This place, which is a part of the Kullu district, has a very interesting culture. It is also a great place for those who are looking for a refreshing experience amidst the hills that can be visited at any time of the year.
Just in case you are planning a trip during winter, it would be important to look for the best places to visit in Manali in December. With its picture-perfect beauty, Naggar is definitely a spot to consider.
Location: Naggar is located 22 kilometers (14 mi) north of the District headquarters at Kullu and 230 kilometers (140 mi) north of the state capital at Shimla.
How To Reach: There is no airport or railway station in Naggar. The closest airport is Kullu-Manali Airport at Bhuntar. The closest train station is at Joginder Nagar. Both the airport and the railway station are well-connected to Manali, and you can quickly reach Naggar from there.
Key Attractions: Uruswati Himalayan Folk Art Museum
Also Read: Top 25 Beautiful Waterfalls in India That You Must see
There are many places to travel in Himachal Pradesh, and Arki is one of the great places to enjoy summer in Himachal Pradesh. Arki is a good pick for anyone who is considering a trip to visit the offbeat destinations in Himachal Pradesh. Located in the Solar District, it is famous for its unique blend of culture and art.
On your trip to Arki, you can visit gorgeous monuments and temples like Lutru Mahadev Temple, Arki Fort, Jakholy Devi Temple, and many more. Many must-see and offbeat locations in Himachal offer gorgeous scenic beauty.
Location: Arki is a town, tehsil and Nagar panchayat in Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, India. The town is known for its fort, which was built in the late 18th century when Arki was the capital of the erstwhile princely hill state of Baghal.
How To Reach: Arki is 39 km west of Shimla. One has to first reach Shimla either by road, rail, or air, then take NH88 to Shalaghat via Jatogh, a state road to Arki.
Key Attractions: Temples and Monuments
Also Read: Explore The 30 Best Honeymoon Places in India in December
Whether you are looking to spend Honeymoon In Manali or you are looking for the Best Time To Visit Manali For Snowfall, Bhuntar is a must! If you are an adventure lover, Bhunter is the place you simply cannot miss on your trip to see the most offbeat destinations in Himachal Pradesh. Away from urban life, Bhuntar gives you an amazing and relaxing getaway. You can visit the gorgeous temples or have fun rafting in the river Beas.
Location: Bhuntar is one of the best places to visit near Himachal; it is a town and a nagar panchayat in the Kullu district in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is just 11 km from Kullu town and lies along National Highway 3. The Kullu Airport is located in Bhuntar. Bhuntar is located on the right bank of the Beas River.
How To Reach: The journey from Delhi to Bhuntar, which is one of many offbeat places near Shimla, is smoothly covered by a bus in 11 hours. Alternatively, you can also consider traveling on trains.
Key Attractions: Bijli Mahadev Temple and other famous temples, white river rafting
Also Read: 30 Best Places To Visit In October In India
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It is considered one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in November. Being very close to Manali, Gulaba is one of the most gorgeous villages out there. It is one of the best places to explore in Himachal. You can visit this village on your way to Rohtang Pass. Among many adventure lovers, this village is particularly famous. When you are looking for the best tour packages in India, consider choosing the best places. From paragliding to skating and as well as scooter riding, you can enjoy it all in this gorgeous village. Soak the beauty of this place and plan a wonderful trip to Gulaba. It is the perfect break that you might be looking for. It is a highlight of many Himachal Pradesh attractions.
Location: Gulaba, which is one of the many offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh, is a village in the State of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is 27 km away from Manali and 25 km from Rohtang Pass.
How To Reach: The best way to reach Gulaba Manali from Manali City Centre is by taking a car or by hiring a private car or taxi. Even Jeeps operate Himachal Pradesh tour packages around the state and can take you to Gulaba. Alternatively, the cheapest way to reach Gulaba from the Manali City Centre is by availing the state bus services.
Key Attractions: Scenic views, adventurous activities.
Also Read: 30 Best Places to Visit in November in India You Must Visit
On your Himachal Pradesh tourist places list, Theong is a must! It is yet among the best offbeat places in Himachal. If you are looking for a comfortable getaway, this hill station is just what you need for a comfortable weekend getaway. Letting you chill and relax amid nature, It is thought to be a great place for camping and takes you away from the chaotic vibes of the city. Among many people, it is the best location in Himachal Pradesh.
Quite honestly there are many things to do in Shimla especially if you consider Theong as one of the destinations in your itinerary.
Location: Theog, which is one of the peaceful places in Himachal, is a town and a municipal committee as well as a tehsil in Shimla district in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It's just 30 km from the state capital, Shimla & 37 KM from ISBT Shimla. The first settlements were in 1902.
How To Reach: 30 km away from Shimla, you can get on a bus or hire a cab to Theog.
Key Attractions: Camp Site.
Also Read: 30 Best Places To Visit In December In India
We already know that Narkanda is famous due to its close distance from Shimla and for being one of the offbeat locations in Himachal. However, if you really wish to see the Apple Country, you have to visit Kotkhai. There are many secluded villages and valleys, all covered with Apple orchards. It is a must-see place on your offbeat Himachal trip.
Location: Kotkhai is a great tourist destination in Himachal, which rests at an altitude of 1800 m in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh.
How To Reach: The last bus from Chandigarh to Kotkhai HRTC bus leaves at 04:30. The bus travel time takes around 06:33 hours to reach from Chandigarh to Kotkhai.
Key Attractions: Kotkhai Fort
This place is a must on every Himachal Pradesh tour package. Right on the outskirts of the Great Himalayan National Park, Sainj is all about lush greenery and sprawling meadows. Considered the hidden gem of Himachal Pradesh, it is a place to visit if you are looking for offbeat places in Himachal.
Location: Q83F+WWP, Dusharh, Kanaun, Himachal Pradesh 175122
How To Reach: On the Himachal tour package, The nearest airport is in Bhuntar, which is 36 km away, and the railway station is in Jogindernagar. However, the nearest major railhead is in Chandigarh, which is 238 km away.
Key Attractions: Camping and Hiking
There are many best tourist places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. No matter which location you choose, Trip Planners India is the best assistance to have by your side.
While going on a tour to see the offbeat destinations in Himachal Pradesh sounds interesting, planning all these to perfection is not an easy task. This is where the assistance of Trip Planner India comes in, as we will make sure you do not miss out on any of these interesting places.
Additionally, as they are known to be the best trip planners in India, they will also take care of the food and logistics. Therefore, you do not need to be stressed and unwind in your much-awaited tour to see the locations in Himachal.
