Hill stations bustling with people while quaint villages await your welcome… Snow-capped peaks to conceal you from the urban glam and matters… Valleys echoing the purity of nature… Winding roads leading you to stunning views and remarkable experiences. Himachal Pradesh is one state that grants all you want for a trip worth remembering.
I visited the state last December, and I am blown away with all that Himachal Pradesh offers. After a long train journey packed with scenic views, Punjabi fields, the quiet lanes of Rajasthan, we reached Chandigarh. We later set out on an 8-hour journey to Manali, the winter wonderland that welcomed us with snowfall—transforming the entire surrounding into a peaceful, chilly zone of modest celebration.
Chilly winds made us tuck against our thermals and warmers, but that couldn’t stop us from embracing the beauty of Manali with wide, open arms. Channeling our inner child in the snow, and veering back to being adult—mainly reflecting on life and nature… The state set us in a trance.
Huge pines and teaks here and there, valleys resounding the bountiful character of the high altitude, the thick sheets of white in the background, and the river Beas splashing around—Manali is a destination that has some fodder to all kinds of travellers. There are cozy hotels for families and friends, romantic setups for a couple’s retreat, and a whole lot of fun for the solo traveller.
With a history boasting of both Hindu and Buddhist religions, Manali also caters to people from all backgrounds. Visit the Hidimba temple and Nyingpa monastery to walk a little closer to the deities. Visit the Naggar Castle to get a taste of Himachali royalty and a peek into the legacy of the state that truly has more than just nature to exhibit. Stroll around the Mall Road, which has everything from stores with beautiful woolens on sale to nice and cozy cafes, with vendors on the street selling scrumptious desserts.
For the seekers of adventure, Manali has Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Nehru Kund, and more spots to amp the thrill factor to a different level. Go para-gliding, skiing, take a cable car to catch a higher and better view of the majestic Himalayas, or ride with the currents on a river raft! While Solang is a winter spot, fully clad with snow and a place for families and friends to have a gala time with the white sheets and flakes, Rohtang Pass is a road full of thrill and breathtaking views—which shuts down in winter given the extreme weather conditions.
A short drive away from Manali lies the quaint town of Kasol, a bounty of nature. Views. Views. Views. That’s all it has and honestly, that’s more than enough! The town is adventurous, yet tranquil. The winding ways lead you into the hills with Beas or Parvati river always making their presence felt wherever you go. Kasol also boasts of a unique spot—rising steam from streams even at that high an altitude, with snow all over the backdrop. That’s the hot water streams of Manikaran. Witness this incredible phenomenon and visit the holy shrine of Shiv, and a Gurudwara just nearby. Lush green valleys and wondrous, gigantic hills splashed with beauty and strength make it a memorable location.
With stupefying spots like Kufri and Mashobra to feed the solitude-seekers around it, Shimla is the perfect destination for those looking for a serene getaway. Less of adventure, but the closest you could be to nature. The Ridge is an excellent location to hang out at—glorious hills in the background, conspicuous structures to see around, and amazing cafes to beat the cold and tuck yourself in the warmth of great company and delicious food.
When should you visit?
