Himachal tour packages are one of the most popular choices for people in North India. When they want to escape the overbearing heat and pollution of major cities. And want to go back into the lap of nature. In fact, Himachal is actually called “DevBhoomi”, or “Land of the Gods’. Because of this close association with nature and beauty.
Yet, despite so many people picking Himachal tour packages each year. The state still remains a relatively peaceful place. Sure, there is lots of tourist traffic during the peak seasons. But once you get off the roads, you truly feel like you’re traveled back in time. To a simpler time and place, where all you want to do is sit back and drink in the view.
That doesn’t mean that there aren’t lots of fun adventures that you can pack into your itinerary. If you are a group of friends looking to explore the mountains. Or a couple searching for exciting Himachal Pradesh honeymoon packages. But the main focus will remain on relaxing in peace, and appreciating the beauty of nature.
We think this disposition has a lot to do with the general atmosphere of the place. As well as the welcoming nature of the people that live here. It is also a symbol of the maturity of a culture that has evolved over hundreds of years. By taking in artistic and cultural influences from all over the world.
We’re not just talking about all the tourists that visit this place each year. But also, the past influences, left by invaders and traders from the rest of the world. Who often crossed this region to get to the rest of the country. And left behind traces of their own world’s. In the form of famous Hindu temples, old churches and colonial homes, and even the home of the Dalai Lama.
This just goes to show how the state embodies the Indian spirit of acceptance. As well as the merits of simple living. Considering more than 80% of the population still lives in rural areas. And prefer the calm, unobtrusive state of being.
In fact, the people are so down-to-earth and good-natured. That the state has actually won the title of being the least corrupt state in the country. Which is a big compliment to get. Considering how most popular tourist destinations often get a bad reputation for scams.
For people looking to explore this kind of culture and atmosphere. Himachal tour packages offer lots of locations to pick from. Each place offers its own unique experience. In terms of both flora and fauna, as well as topography. You can visit lush river valleys, to tough mountains, and even cold deserts. There is something for everyone.
Shimla
Shimla is a must-have destination on any and all Himachal Pradesh tour packages. It is the state capital, and was also known as the summer capital of British India. This can be easily seen in the Victorian style construction that dominates this city.
The most famous example of this being the Mall road. Which looks just like a sleepy European street that ends at a massive Christ Church. There is also Annandale, a beautiful large plain nestled 2200m above sea level. Where you can play all sorts of sports, from cricket to golf, and even polo.
While the town isn’t all that big considering its popularity. You will still find lots of tiny things to enjoy. From shops selling traditional and international fashion. To lovely cafes and restaurants located off the beaten path. That offer a taste of unique and delicious pahadi food.
Manali
Manali is easily one of the most recognizable hill towns in the country. As well as one of the most popular. So much so, that multiple luxury buses travel daily between Manali and Delhi, all through the year. It is a great spot for starting your Himachal Pradesh honeymoon tour.
Located in the valley of the Beas river. This resort town offers spectacular views in all seasons. From the lush green meadows of the Solang valley, where you can enjoy paragliding in the summers. To the snowy peaks of the Pir Panjal range, that you can trek in the winters. And a fresh and fast perennial river running between them. That offers all sorts of fun watersports activities.
There are even more things to do in the town itself. Which is always hustling and bustling with tourists from all over the world. That are here for the natural beauty. Or to visit the famous Hadimba Devi temple that has stood here since the 16th century.
Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj
Nestled in the Kangra Valley, this area is also known as the mini-Tibet of India. Since it is the home of the Dalai Lama himself. Thousands of people visit this place each year to immerse themselves in the culture. Which is a majestic blend of traditional Hindu beliefs, and monastic Tibetan customs. This influence can be easily seen in almost everything. From the food, to the clothes, and even how people live their lives.
If you’re more into exploring nature, then you have lots of amazing places to see as well. There are the beautiful treks you can take to Triund or the Kareri Lake. As well as other beautiful landscapes. In the form of the Bhagsu Waterfall, the Dal Lake, and all the lovely mountains surrounding them.
Kasauli
Kasauli is a quaint little cantonment town that is comfortably nestled below Shimla. it was initially constructed by the British, but was later taken over by the Indian army. Thanks to this, the small town remains exceptionally clean. With impeccably maintained Victorian era buildings.
It is not that big of a town. In fact, you can cover most of it in a day, simply by walking around. And that is what makes it so much special. It has lots of small trails that wrap around the mountains. And offer spectacular vantage points that oversee the expansive valley beneath.
You can find lots of spots to visit. Like Gilbert Trail, Manki Point, Sunset Point, Sunrise Point, and more. There is even a Gurkha Fort. And just like Shimla, this town also has its own Christ Church, and Mall Road. We would suggest going there in early spring. When the blooming orchards add to the beautiful colors of the valley.
Kullu
While Manali is for a more laid-back experience, Kullu offers a lot more adventure. Surrounded by tough and jagged mountains, this region is great for people who want to go trekking. You have lots of trails to pick from. That lead to various scenic spots that are perfect for camping in the summers.
You also get the option to try activities like white water rafting and paragliding. The pine and deodar trees give this place a truly signature look. That makes it seem like you have crossed into another country altogether. Yet the people are as welcoming and helpful as any other place. That’s why it makes a great destination on any Himachal Pradesh tour packages.
Dalhousie
This place was initially established by British governor, Lord Dalhousie in 1850. He picked his spot for its majestic views of wide-open green valleys. And beautiful lakes surrounded by snow-capped mountains. All these things combine to give this place an otherworldly look. Which is why it is also referred to as the “Little Switzerland” of India.
As you can expect, this place still hosts signs of its imperial history. With lots of buildings built in the style of Scottish and Victorian architecture. There is even a special wildlife reserve near the town. Which offers once-in-a-lifetime views of exotic mountain animals. Despite having lots of plains, this place is still relatively high up. At about 6,500ft above the sea level. So, make sure you get acclimated to the weather, before you start making your trekking plans.
Kufri
Located over 8000ft above sea level. Kufri is one of the best trekking and mountaineering spots in the whole state. It is completely covered by snow most of the year. So, you can enjoy the rare chance of skiing in some of the highest elevations in the world.
You can also explore the Himalayan National Park. Which is an epic camping location for summer time visits. There is a chance you might even see the rare snow leopards that live in this region. Each season offers an exceptional view of the Himalayas. And you can enjoy it with friends and family alike.
Spiti Valley
Spiti literally translates to ‘the middle land’. Which is an apt name, since this place is precariously located between India and Tibet. At an altitude of 12,500 feet above sea level. This makes it one of the coldest places in the country. And also, a literal cold desert. One of the few in our country where people still survive. Despite the tough weather and awkward border relations with our neighbors.
What makes it truly spectacular are the pristine lakes that dot this valley. And reflect the heavens above with its calm blue waters. You can find lots of monasteries to visit on the way. As the region is heavily influenced by Buddhist culture. As expected, there are also lots of great trekking trails this high up. Which make it a perfect location for adventure seekers. As well as nature lovers.
Himachal Pradesh tourism sees a high volume of visitors for the majority of the year. This is thanks to great road connectivity that stays open throughout the year. As well as close proximity to a lot of low-lying metro cities. In Punjab, Haryana, and even as far as Delhi. So, it isn’t uncommon to see people from these regions flocking to Himachal Pradesh for just a weekend.
However, just because you can go there anytime, doesn’t mean you should. Let us tell you the best times to visit this state. So, you can get the most out of your Himachal Pradesh tour packages.
Summer: Summer in Himachal starts around March and lasts until the month of June. This is the peak season for tourists, as spring is in full bloom. And the mountains look amazing, with a variety of flora and fauna to enjoy. The temperature remains a manageable 22-37 degrees. And at night it cools down even further.
This is the best time to visit for adventure travelers. As you can easily access most trails and treks. And camp out in the open, without the worry of freezing in the night. This also means that everything is that much more expensive. As most long-distance tourists choose this time to visit the state.
Monsoon: After summer, the months of July to September fall under the monsoon season. The state witnesses lots of rainfall during this period. Which forces most outdoor activities to shut down. There are even instances of landslides. Which is a big risk even for less adventurous travelers. The temperature starts getting cooler during this period. With the average being 18-30 degrees. You can also get the cheapest prices during the period. As most tourists avoid the region at this time of the year.
Winter: Winter begins early in the mountains. With temperatures dropping steadily, all the way down to the 0-15 degree range. Once the temperature goes below 0, the states sees lots of snowfall. Which gives a second life to the tourism industry. As people begin to flock the region to play in the snow. And spend their New Year’s drinking in the mountains. The winter season lasts from November to February. And is great for people looking to indulge in winter sports. Places like Rohtang Pass, Kufri, and Shimla see a lot of traffic in this period.
Despite being an exclusively hilly region, Himachal Pradesh is pretty well connected. It has lots of national and state highways, as well as train routes, and airports. So, you can easily pick any way to experience the state you like.
By Air: Himachal Pradesh has three airports connecting it to the rest of the country. Bhuntar Airport in Manali, Gaggal Airport in Kangra, and Jubbarhatti airport in Shimla. These airports are within easy driving distance of most major cities. You can also go straight to Chandigarh airport and drive from there. As it isn’t that far from the state border. You will also be able to find more flights to this one, as it is a major hub for North Indian travel.
By Train: Due to the tough terrain, Himachal Pradesh doesn’t have a lot of train tracks. But those that are there are pretty robust. In total the state has 57 railway stations that cover most major towns and cities. Although if you truly want a scenic experience, we would suggest skipping them all. And going directly to Kalka railway station near the Haryana border. The famous toy train starts from this point and covers a beautiful route to Shimla. That features over 863 bridges, 102 tunnels, and 20 stations. It is specially designed for delivering a tourist experience. And won’t break your budget. With just 500rs per ticket for the deluxe experience.
By Road: This is perhaps the easiest and most reliable way of traveling through the state. The state has 9 national highways, and 19 state highways crisscrossing through it. You can travel anywhere within the state. As well as pass through to reach higher locations like Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh. If you don’t want to drive yourself. There are lots of luxury buses and taxis that travel between Delhi and Himachal every day. So, you can catch a flight to Delhi or Chandigarh. And cover the rest of the distance by road. Just be careful during the monsoons, as some paths are prone to landslides.
With this information, you can start to plan your next vacation to Himachal Pradesh. Make sure you browse our website thoroughly. To see the latest Himachal tour packages, being offered with the best discounts possible.
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