Kullu Dussehra

Kullu Dussehra is one of the most popular festivals in Himachal Pradesh which is much differently celebrated elsewhere in the country. In the month of October, an ostentatious fair is organized in Dhalpur Maidan in Kullu Valley, Himachal Pradesh. This fair has always been the attraction point for a number of tourists. Kullu Dussehra celebration starts on VijyaDashmi and continues for one week.  It’s a perfect blend of folk music with the traditional dance showing love and respect to their culture. Kullu Dussehra is one of the mega festivals of Himachal Pradesh that attracts a number of tourists every year.

Naina Devi Fair

Naina Devi is one of the awaited fair in Himachal Pradesh celebrated at Naina Devi Temple in Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh. This arrangement of the fair is done in the month of August.

Losar

Tibetan culture is strongly felt in some parts of Himachal Pradesh and Dharamshala is one of those places. Losar festival is a celebration of the ‘new year’ according to the Tibetan Calendar. The enthusiasm and zeal of the people add one more star in the celebration of the Losar festival. The festival is one way of the local people to celebrate their unique culture. The motive of the festival is to attract happiness and prosperity. The celebration of the Losar festival is continued for 15 days. A number of music performances and dance are organized and various traditional customs are also showcased in the Losar festival.

Nalwari fair

Nalwari fair is one of the famous state fairs of Himachal Pradesh. The Nalwari Fair is seven days long fair organized in Bilaspur town of Himachal Pradesh.  If you want to see a glimpse of the rich art & culture of the Bilaspur then attend this Nalwari fair. Different local items, trade of cattle, and other fun activities are organized in this fair.

Halda Festival

Halda is one of the most popular festivals of Himachal Pradesh which has resemblance with Diwali. It is celebrated on MaghaPurnima in Lahul. The festival is organized in the month of January every year by the lamas. The grand carnival is celebrated for 2 days. The people full of zeal and fervor gathers to celebrate the Halda festival. A magnificent bonfire is one of the main attractions of the festival that resembles the solidarity of the people. The festival will offer you very beautiful and sweet memories that you always going to cherish in your life.

Sazo Festival

Sazo, one of the awaited festivals of Himachal Pradesh is celebrated in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. The people hold a belief that during this period, the deities go back to heaven for a short period of time. The people on this sacred occasion take baths in hot springs or Satluj River. The people perform all customs and traditions with so much zeal. The festival holds value in the life of people as it is their way to give respect and honor to the god and goddesses. The Sazo festival is organized every year in the month of January.

Holi Fair

Holi, the festival of colors is one of the famous festivals in Himachal Pradesh. But in Himachal Pradesh, a special Holi fair is also planned in the month of March every year. Holimela of Sujanpur district is the most famous one. In the land of gods as the name given to Himachal Pradesh, the Holi fair hold its own uniqueness and charm. The celebration is continued for a whole week. Entertaining Games, mesmerizing dance with folk music, and other business activities are organized in the fair.

Minjar Fair

Minjar is one of the most popular fairs of Himachal Pradesh attended by a number of people from all over the country. The Minjar fair is organized in Chamba district particularly in a place called ‘chowgan’ of Himachal Pradesh and has been declared as State Fair. The fair continued for a week. Mijar festival is basically an agricultural festival that is celebrated with much joy and enthusiasm.

Lavi Fair

Lavi fair is also known as internationalLavi fair which is being celebrated for centuries. Lavi fair is one of the most popular fair. The Lavi fair is continued for 4 days. The fair shows the unique legacy of the rich culture and history of Himachal Pradesh. The fair is organised in Rampur district of Shimla in month of October or November. It is also organised to increase business activity among locals.

Shivratri Fair

Shivratri fair is one of the popular known national fairs of Himachal Pradesh. Shivratri Fair is organized in The Mandi Town of Himachal Pradesh. The celebration of the fair continued for seven days. The fair is organized every year on the 13^th night of Krishna Paksha with much zeal where devotees perform their religious rituals. This fair holds a great value in the hearts of the people of Himachal Pradesh as Lord Shiva is the chief deity of the Himachal Pradesh. This fair offers you a great experience of spirituality that you are never going to forget.

Tara Devi Temple Fair

Tara Devi temple is located on a hill, around 11 km away from main Shimla.Tara Devi fair is one of the popular fair among people of north India. It isorganised by the local people in the name of “Tara Maa”. It is celebrated in the month of September. This fair is one the attraction point for the devotees in Himachal Pradesh.

Renuka Fair

Renuka fair is one of the most famous state fair organized in the Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh. The celebration is started after 10 days of Diwali and continued for six days. The people believe that at this time the Parshuram, sixth incarnation of the Lord Vishnu comes to visit his mother Renuka every year. Folk dances, music, games, and shows are organized and the Himachali culture is at a peak during this Fair.

Also read: Places to see in Himachal Pradesh

Let’s know about 30 tourist places to visit in Himachal Pradesh-

1. Kullu

Kullu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh. It is an open valley formed by river Beas between Manali and Larji. Kullu is also known as “Kulanth Peeth” which means all dharmic tradition and their knowledge ends here. You can visit Kullu in winter if you want to witness the magic of snowfall.

Some of the famous places in Kullu– Bijli Mahadev temple, Raghunath temple, Vishveshvara temple, Great Himalayan National Park- a UNESCO World Heritage site.

2. Manali

Manali is a natural charm that you cannot miss if you visit Himachal Pradesh. Manali is a Himalayan resort town situated on high altitude. The best months to visit Manali are from February to June. Visit Manali in monsoon should be avoided.  It is one of the best tourist places for adventurous activities out there -trekking, skiing, mountain biking, rock climbing, paragliding, camping, river rafting, horse riding, and many more.

Some of the famous places in Manali– Manali Bird Sanctuary, Manikaran Gurudwara, Siyali Mahadev temple.

3. Shimla – Capital of Himachal Pradesh

Shimla is one of the most famous and attractive tourist places that find its place in any tourist’s itinerary. Shimla is perhaps one of the biggest hill stations of the world.

Some of the famous places in Shimla-The Ridge Road Shimla, Christ Church, Visit Mall Road, Kalibari Temple.

4. Dharamshala

Indian society is known for their unity in diversity and Here in Dharamshala, you can see the live example by witnessing the harmony between Indo- Tibetan community. Dharamshala is divided into two parts – lower and upper Dharamshala. The lower part is the main town and the upper part is known as Mcleodganj.

Some of the famous places in Dharamshala– Triund hills, Bhagsunag waterfalls, Dharamshala cricket stadium, Tibet Museum, Kangra valley, and many more.

5. Kasauli

Kasauli is a small hill station that also serves as an army cantonment area. It was established by the British as a cantonment town in 1842. Pleasant climate, snow-clad mountains, and dense forest make it one of the best tourist places to visit.

Some of the famous place in Kasauli- monkey point.

6. Bir Billing

 Bir Billing is also known as paragliding capital. The Bir Billing name is a combination of two places – Bir and billing. Bir is a village located in Kangra district and billing is from where paragliding is launched. Besides paragliding, it is also famous for its choking monastery, Bir Bazar, Bir tea factory, Himalayan film institute, and many more.

7. Malana

Malana is also known as the village of taboos. An isolated and ancient village situated in Malana Nala near Kullu valley. Its picturesque natural beauty has got so much attention from tourists.

Some of the famous places in Malana- Jamdagni temple, Shrine of Renuka Devi.

8. Dalhousie

Dalhousie is a hill station in Himachal Pradesh which is also a home of colonial-era buildings. It was founded by Lord Dalhousie in 1850 as a summer retreat. If you are looking for a break from bustling city life then this place is for you. The tranquilness and pleasant weather all around the year make it one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh.

Places to visit in Dalhousie- St. John’s Church, Panjpulla waterfall, Subhash Baoli, and many more.

9. Kasol

Kasol situated on the banks of the Parvati River in Parvati valley. It is one of the popular tourist destinations of Himachal Pradesh. Kasol is best known for its adventurous treks and roaring rivers. It is also known as Amsterdam of India.

Places to see in Kasol- Kheer Ganga trek, Parvati River, Rasol.

10. Khajjiar

Khajjiar is a hill station in the Chambal district in north India of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the best ideal tourist spot in Himachal Pradesh for picnic and trekking. It not only provides adventurous activities but also nature wildlife exploration.

Places to see in Khajjiar– Khajjar Nag temple, Kala top wildlife sanctuary, Khajjar Lake, and many more.

11. Mashobra

Mashobra is a small town in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh known for its cool climate and picturesque natural beauty. Mashobra is situated on the banks of river Indus and Ganga.

Some of the famous places in Mashobra – Reserve Forest Sanctuary, Wild Flower Hall, Lakkar Bazar, and many more.

12. Palampur

One of the best tourism destinations in Himachal Pradesh is known for its never-ending green fields of tea garden. That’s why it is also famous as the Tea Capital of North India. Palampur is 35 km away from Kangra. Palampur is famous for its marvelous views of Dhauladhar Ranges.

Some of the famous places– Naam art gallery, Tea plantation, Chamunda Devi Temple, Tashi Jong Monastery, Bajunath Temple.

13. Kinnaur

Kinnaur is a beautiful valley, offering an amazing tourist Place in Himachal Pradesh. There is a strong impact of Tibetan culture on Kinnaur as it shares borders with Tibet. It is famous for its green valleys, magnificent monastery, and plantations. It is also renowned as ‘Land of apples and Gods’.

Places- Nako, Sangla Valley, Lipa – Asrang Sanctuary and Moorang.

14. Kufri

Kufri is a word derived from the word ‘kufr’ which means lake. Kufri has situated 20 km from Shimla. It is one of the best tourist destination known for its natural beauty, cool and pleasant climate. The travel and tourism department of Himachal Pradesh organizes the annual winter sports festival here.

Places to see in Kufri– Hip- Hip Hurray Amusement Park, Kufri Zoo, and Nag Temple.

15. Chail

Chail is known for its novel forests and recuperative beauty. The world’s highest cricket ground is situated here. Chail is surrounded by lush greenery and an ideal tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh which will give you a memorable traveling experience.

Places to see in Chail– Chail wildlife Sanctuary, Palace Hotel, Kali Temple.

16.  Chitkul

Chitkul is a small village in Sangla valley of Himachal Pradesh near Indo- China border. It is one of the special tourist places in Himachal Pradesh as it offers the mesmerizing beauty of nature that you have ever seen. Chitkul is called the last village in India. Chitkul provides abundant peace from a busy life. September is the best time to visit here.

Places to see in Chitkul- Mathi Devi Temple, Baspa River, Sangla Meadows.

17. Solang Valley

It is the conjugation of two words- ‘Solang’ and ‘Nallah’ which means nearby village and water stream respectively. Solang Valley is nestled between Solang village and Beas Kund. It is also famous as the Ski Resort. If you are a natural beauty admirer, this place is for you!

Places to visit in Solang valley– Rohtang Pass, Kothi.

18. Shoghi

Shoghi is a small town situated at an elevation of 5700ft. in Himachal Pradesh. Shoghi is one of the most popular hill stations which offer an ideal tourist place in Himachal Pradesh. There are number of temples, that’s why it is also known as ‘temple town’. Shoghi offers  beautiful sightseeing and Hiking, Trekking and camping and other venturesome activities.

19. Tirthan Valley

Tirthan Valley is situated in Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh. It has derived its name from the Tirthan River which rises from icy cold glacial spring of Hirakund. It is Famous for trekking, fishing, wildlife, and many more things.

Places in Tirthan valley– Serene Serolsar Lake, Pristine Prashar Lake, Jalori Pass.

20. Narkanda

Narkanda is situated between Valley of Rivers Sutlej and Giri in Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its skiing and Winter sports. Its scenic views of snow-capped mountains make it one of the popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh. The best time to visit Nakanda is Between March and June.

Places to see in Narkanda– Hatu Peak, Thanedar – kothgarh belt, Tannu Jubbar Lake, Stokes Farm.

21. Barot

Barot is a village situated in Mandi district. It was developed in the 1920s for the Shanan Hydel Project that has now become one of the best locations in Himachal Pradesh. This treasure of natural beauty is situated on the banks of River Uhl. It is the picturesque beauty of this place that attracts all nature lovers here.

Places to see in Barot– Trout Fish Farm, Uhl River, Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary, Barot Temple.

22. Chamba Town

Chamba is located on the banks of Ravi River. It is one of the best tourist locations where the weather is always pleasant, neither too hot nor too cold. Besides its primeval beauty, it is also famous for temples, paintings, streams, and meadows. It sometimes experiences snow which works as a cherry on top of the cake.

Places to visit in Chamba– Chamunda Devi Temple, Hari Rai Temple, Sui Mata Temple, Chamba Library.

23. Mandi

Mandi is known as ‘Varanasi’ of east owing to the presence of over 81 temples. It is situated on the bank of the Beas River. It has derived its name from Sage Mandav who meditated here. Well-developed tourist facilities, the picturesque beauty of the snow-capped mountain, and pleasant weather make it one of the best tourist spots in Himachal Pradesh.

Places to see in Mandi- Sunken Garden, Rewalsar Garden, Panchavaktra Temple.

24. Nahan

Nahan is the capital of the historical legendary kingdom of Sirmour. It is one of the best-unexplored places in Himachal Pradesh. Nahan is named after a saint who used to live with a lion. It is famous for its spectacular temples and agricultural heritage.

Places in Nahan to see-Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary, Shri Mahamaya Balasundri Jee temple, Rani Tal.

25. Kangra

Kangra is one of the best tourist locations which offers rejuvenation and relaxation. With its cultural and historical beauty, it will simply mesmerize you. District of Kangra is also known as ‘Dev Bhoomi’ as it has a number of temples of different gods.

Places in Kangra to see- Brijeshwari Temple, Kangra Fort, Jwalamukhi Temple, Nagarkot fort.

26. Bhuntar

Bhuntar provides an entrance to towns of Kullu, Manali, and Kasol. Bhuntar is a hilly town in Kullu district and a must-visit destination in Himachal Pradesh. It has pleasant weather throughout the year. It provides an abundance of peace away from the maddening crowd of most of the tourist spots in Himachal Pradesh.

Places in Bhuntar to see- Jagannath Temple, Adi Brahma Temple, Hampta Pass.

27. Bilaspur

Bilaspur is a town in Himachal Pradesh known as India’s first planned hill station. It is famous for the artificially made lake- Gobind Sagar Lake on Sutlej River. The best time to visit here is between September to December.

Places in Bilaspur to see– Fort of Bachhretu, Gobind Sagar Lake, Sri Naina Devi Ji, Vyas Cave.

28.  Keylong

Keylong is situated in Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh. This town is built on a valley. When compared to natural scenic beauty, Keylong has many rivals. It is famous for valleys and snow-capped peaks. It is one of the special tourist spots in Himachal Pradesh whose memories you will always cherish.

Places to see in Keylong– Bara- Lacha Pass, Deepak Tal, Kardang Monastery, Shashur Monastery.

29. Parwanoo

Parwanoo is a gateway point for important tourist spots like Kasauli and Pinjore. It is an industrial city that is famous for its orchards, flora, and fauna. Its scenic beauty offers a refreshing and relaxing trip.

Places in Parwanoo to visit: Pinjore Gardens, Mansa Devi Temple, Cactus Garden, Fruit Orchards.

30. Arki

 The literal meaning of Arki is ‘sunny place’. Arki is a small town in Solan district. It is the best tourist place in Himachal Pradesh which offers a perfect blend of art, culture, and heritage. It is locally famous for its 18^th century Fort.

Places in Arki to see- Jakholy Devi, the luturu Mahadev Temple, Arki Fort, Bhadrakali Temple.

Kasauli is a small town located in the hills of HIMACHAL PRADESH at the height of almost 1927 meters from sea level. The town was discovered by Britishers and their sign can be seen through the cobbled streets, the flower-filled gardens in front of amazing and artistic bungalows. There are so many churches that add to the beauty of the place. The glass windows and shinning clocks captivate every person visiting the town.

THE city also synonym with “TIME WRAP” gives you an unforgettable experience in the rainy season. The light rain showers falling on the pine trees shocked every mind and soul.

Kasauli, a small town in the state of Himachal is one such holiday destination that offers its visitors not only scenic beauty and weather to enjoy, but also a relaxing and beautiful nature that attracts everyone to love and to sneak out.

WEATHER

The weather in Kasauli is pleasantly cold almost throughout the year. The best time to visit in Kasauli is between April to November because at that time weather is neither so hot nor so cold. In winter the temperature hovers between 10 to 20 degrees many times but sometimes it goes down to negative.

PLACES TO VISIT IN KASAULI

There are so many places in Kasauli that make your trip an unforgettable experience. There are some famous tourist attractions in the town are:-

• Anglican Church
• Baptist Church
• Timber Trail
• Kasauli Club
• Kasauli Beverage
• Scandal Point
• Sunset Point
• Sunrise Point
• Monkey Point
• Mughal Garden
• Mall Road
• Gurudwara Shri Guru Nanak Ji

THINGS TO DO IN KASAULI

Nature Walk:-Nature walk is one of the best things to do in Kasauli. There is a smell of romance in the air of Kasauli which feels so wonderful. The picture-perfect environs of this lovely place will lighten up your mood. Kasauli also gives an opportunity of taking some panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks in the distance.

Sunset Point:- Sunset point is also one of the best things to do in Kasauli. The 270-degree viewpoint attracts the tourist because, during the sunset, the rays split into a plethora of colours and seem to colour the whole environment. All this forms one pretty picture. This is a perfect place for clicking pictures. The best time to visit sunset point is Morning, Afternoon and Evening.

Monkey Point:- Monkey point is the highest peak of the Kasauli. From that point, tourists can get a complete view of the plains of the Chandigarh region and the river Sutlej flowing through the valleys. Visitors can also spot the snow-covered peak of ‘Choor Chandni’ at the highest peak of the lower Himalayan belt. At monkey point, there is a temple which is dedicated to Lord Hanuman.

Mall Road:- Mall road provides flattering options for shopping and eating out. The market of Kasauli is quietly beautiful. During evenings, vibrant shows in the market and evening strolls are highly recommended for visitors.

Baptist Church:- The church is built by the Britishers in the year 1923. This church was influenced by a blend of Indian and Victorian styles.

Christ (Anglican) Church:- This church was constructed in the year 1853. This church is located in the centre of the city with a vibrant mall road around it. This church was built with the grandeur of the gothic style of architecture. This church is a must-visit for all tourists because this church is a popular tourist spot.

Gurudwara Shri Guru Nanak Ji:- This Gurudwara is an important religious center as well as a tourist spot. In Gurudwaras daily prayers and a special program held on the Sundays.

HOW TO REACH KASAULI

There are three ways to reach Kasauli that are:-

• By Road:-The roads are well connected by buses and car that are available from different nearby locations.

Distance from Major Locations

• Panchkula-49km
• Chandigarh-58km
• New Delhi- 302km
• Gurgaon- 348km
• Jalandhar- 196km
• Ludhiana-156km
• Amritsar-277km

By train and by airways also, Kasauli is well connected.

In 1864, this place was declared the summer capital of British India. This picturesque hilly area attracts various tourists. Tourists can enjoy breathtaking views of this mountain range from the ridge, a sprawling open area that links Lakkar Bazaar and Scandal Point. It is bounded by Mandi and Kullu in the north, Kinnaur in the east, Uttranchal State in the south. All the natural gifts received by Shimla are a blessing; this place is surrounded by lush green mountains and snowy peaks. Surrounded by greenery that relaxes the mind, Shimla is also called the city of seven hills.

There are so many places in and around Shimla that can be pleasing to anyone’s mind. But there are some places which are very pleasing to the tourists visiting here.

Jakhu Temple:

This is the temple of Lord Hanuman situated on Jakhu Hill, the highest hill in Shimla. From here the entire Shimla city and surrounding areas are visible. The Koteshwar temple of Lord Shiva is also famous here.

The Ridge:

The Ridge located in Shimla is a large and open road which is located along the Mall Road. The most special thing about The Ridge is that this place was the most special place to stay during the British era during summer. There are also many cafes, bars, boutiques, shops and restaurants on the road which attract a huge crowd.

Mall Road:

Mall Road is a place in Shimla located under the ridge which is full of many shops, cafes, restaurants, book shops, and many tourist attractions. Mall Road is located in the center of Shimla, and it is a famous tourist attraction point.

Shimla-Kalka Rail

Shimla Railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with being a hill railway station of India. This railroad was built in 1898 by the British along with other railway lines of India to Shimla. It runs from Kalka (a town in Haryana) to Shimla and passes through many special places along with many tourist spots like Summer Hill, Solan.

Kufri is a place located 17 km from Shimla which attracts a lot of tourists visiting here. Located at an altitude of 2510 meters and situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, this hill station is very much liked by nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Shimla has beautiful weather in most months of the year. Tourists visiting Shimla can visit Shimla at any time of the year, but the summer/spring and winter seasons are considered the best time to visit Shimla. The monsoon starts in July and lasts till September. The temperature of Shimla is around 20 degree Celsius during spring-summer (March to June). During winters (November to February), the weather is quite pleasant, which is famous for experiencing snowfall and being covered with snow.

Kullu and Manali are two hill stations in the state of Himachal Pradesh that are nestled in the snow-capped ranges of the Himalayas. Both these tourist places top the list of most popular tourist destinations in India. Kullu is famous for valleys, picturesque sites and temples while Manali is known for river, mountains and adventure activities. Tourists from different parts of the country come here for holiday, enjoying snowfall, mountaineering, trekking and skiing.

Being a hill station, there are many places to visit here.  Rohtang Pass which is 92 km from Kullu bus stand and 51 km from Manali bus stand only opens in the month of May, while it remains closed due to heavy snowfall in September.

Manikaran Sahib is located about 45 km from Kullu, on the way to Manali and is known for its hot springs near the Parvati river. It is believed that bathing in it removes skin related diseases. It is a famous Gurudwara and pilgrimage place for Sikhs.

Solang Valley  is famous for adventure sports, parachuting, paragliding and zorbing, ropeways and trekking for those visiting Kullu Manali. It is 13 km northwest of Manali. Its real fun comes when the snowfall occur.

Hidimba Temple was establised in 1553, which is believed to have been built for Hidimba (who is also the local goddess), wife of the Pandava prince Bhima. This temple is known for its four-storied pagoda and unique wood embroidery.

Although you can visit Kullu Manali at any time of the year, but not all the tourist places here can be visited throughout the year as snowfall starts in Kullu Manali after 15 December. If you want to enjoy it, you can come here from December to March. During this time you can go skiing and can see the Hidimba temple, snow trekking on Bhrigu Lake and Beas Kund. Being a hill station, a large number of tourists come here during hot summer months. These months heat up in other parts of India, that’s why people come to visit Kullu Manali with family.

Kasol is getting popularity because of its adrenaline-rushing adventurous trekking along the river Parvati, Kheerganga, Manikaran, and Malana. Get the panoramic and picturesque views of mighty snowy mountains, waterfalls, waters of the Parvati river, blue sky and cafes while trekking to the Kheerganga and Malana. Malana is famous for its cultivation of Malana cream.

It’s a place where a traveller can experience thrilling adventure activities or can just lay back and unwind in the lap of nature as this offbeat destination has a lot to offer. The music festival at the end of the year attracts most tourists from all over.

Reaching Kasol is easy as it is accessible through Rail, Road, and Airways. The nearest Airport and Railway station are Bhuntar Airport and Joginder Nagar railway station respectively. Kasol can be explored at any time of the year as it has a pleasant climate all around the year.