About Himachal Pradesh
Till the 19th century, Tourism in Himachal Pradesh was restricted only to a limited movement of pilgrims to a few spiritual destinations around the hills. Only when the British established their chain of hill stations did tourism receive recognition in the State. Tourism activity received a shot in the arm when the British declared Shimla “The Summer Capital of India” in 1864. Post independence, more investment in the infrastructure sector led to the opening up of Tourism in the state. However, the biggest boost to tourism occurred in the mid-80s and 90s.
- Himachal Region: North Himalayas
- Capital: Shimla
- Total Districts: 12
- Major Tribes in Himachal: Gaddis, Gujjars, Kinnara or Kinnauras, Lahaulas, Pangwalas Bhot/Bodh, Beda, Jad/Lamba/ Khampa, Swangla
- State Animal of Himachal: Snow Leopard
- State Bird of Himachal: Western Tragopan
- State Flower of Himachal: Rhododendron Campanulatum
- State Tree of Himachal: Deodar Cedar
- Major Tourism Festivals of Himachal: Manali Winter Festival, Shimla Summer Festival, Kullu Dussehra..etc
- Major Tourist Places: Ancient Monasteries and Temples, Adventure Activities, Lakes, Hill Stations, Unique Art and Craft, Delectable Cuisine, Cultural Festivals, Trekking Trails.
Pilgrimage Places & Temples in Himachal
Wildlife of Himachal Pradesh
Top Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Tourism offers hundreds of places for tourists to explore, each worth visiting. However, among them, the following are some of the best places that every tourist must see or visit in Himachal.
Shimla
Welcome to Shimla, the mesmerizing capital of Himachal Pradesh, often lovingly referred to as the "Queen of Hills." Perched high amidst the majestic Himalayas, Shimla is a destination where natural beauty seamlessly merges with a rich, colonial past. Once the prestigious summer capital of British India, this picturesque hill station retains its old-world charm through grand Victorian architecture, charming pedestrian streets like the Mall Road and The Ridge, and the quaint, toy-train journey of the UNESCO World Heritage Kalka-Shimla Railway. Whether you seek thrilling adventures on the slopes of nearby Kufri, spiritual solace at the Jakhoo Temple, or simply wish to bask in the cool, crisp mountain air, Shimla promises an unforgettable escape.
Manali
Nestled at the northern end of the picturesque Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh, the charming hill station of Manali serves as a spectacular getaway, seamlessly blending natural serenity with thrilling adventure. Revered as the "Valley of the Gods" and flanked by the majestic Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges, Manali offers a breathtaking panorama of snow-capped peaks, lush deodar forests, and the gurgling waters of the Beas River. It is a quintessential tourist hub that caters to honeymooners seeking tranquil beauty, backpackers exploring vibrant Old Manali, and adventure enthusiasts drawn to activities like paragliding, river rafting, and trekking to high-altitude passes such as Rohtang and Hampta.
Dharamshala
Nestled against the dramatic backdrop of the Dhauladhar range in Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala is a captivating destination that offers a unique fusion of natural splendor and profound cultural richness. Divided into the bustling commercial Lower Dharamshala and the upper, more serene McLeod Ganj (often called 'Little Lhasa'), the city serves as the spiritual home to His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government-in-Exile. Visitors are drawn here to immerse themselves in the vibrant Tibetan Buddhist culture, explore ancient monasteries, find tranquility in yoga and meditation centers, and embark on thrilling treks like the popular Triund, all while breathing the cool, healthy air of the cedar and pine forests. This twin-town provides a perfect blend of peaceful contemplation and Himalayan adventure for every traveler.
Chamba
Chamba, an ancient town nestled in the picturesque Chamba Valley of Himachal Pradesh, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural splendor. Founded in 920 AD by Raja Sahil Varman, the town stands gracefully on the right bank of the River Ravi, with the majestic Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges forming a dramatic backdrop. Tourists are drawn to its well-preserved medieval temples in the distinct Shikhara style, like the renowned Laxmi Narayan Temple complex, alongside historical sites such as the Rang Mahal and the Bhuri Singh Museum, which is a repository for its famous Pahari miniature paintings. This former princely state, celebrated for its exquisite craftsmanship, vibrant local fairs like the Minjar Mela, and serene riverside setting, offers a unique blend of heritage and tranquility for the discerning traveler.