Hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh For A Cool Himalayan Getaway

Known For : Old Manali Solang Valley Jogini Waterfall

Nestled in between the snow-capped slopes of the Pir Panjal and the Dhauladhar ranges, Manali is one of the most popular hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. With jaw-dropping views, lush green forests, sprawling meadows carpeted with flowers, gushing blue streams, a perpetual fairy-tale like mist lingering in the air, and a persistent fragrance of pines and freshness -  Manali has been blessed with extraordinary scenic beauty.

Best Time: October to June

50 Manali Attractions

Known For : The Ridge Jakhu Temple Mall Road, Shimla

Probably the most popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh famous for its Mall road, the Ridge, toy train etc. among honeymooners and families alike. The weather is pleasant for most of the months with tourists flocking especially during the summer months. The winters are cold with some days of snow from mid-December till February end.

Best Time: October to June

63 Shimla Attractions

Known For : Panchpula Khajjiar Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary

The tiny tinsel town Dalhousie tucked away in the lap of Himachal Pradesh is a piece of paradise for all the travellers. It boasts of old world charm, mesmerising natural landscape, pine-clad valleys, flower bedecked meadows, fast flowing rivers, magnificent misty mountains and some of the most spectacular views in the world. The air smells of the Scottish and Victorian architecture and the ambience reminds you of the pristine British flavours.

Best Time: Throughout the year

28 Dalhousie Attractions

Known For : Manikaran Sahib Malana Parvati River

A small village in Himachal Pradesh situated along the banks of the river Parvati, Kasol is a tourist attraction that is rapidly gaining fame as a very popular hub for trekkers, backpackers, and nature lovers. Commonly known as the Amsterdam of India, this quaint little hill station in Himachal Pradesh is resplendent in natural scenic beauty. It is one of the few places in the country that is yet to be discovered by urbanization and commercialization.

Best Time: October to June

23 Kasol Attractions

Known For : Adventure Activities in Khajjiar Khajjiar lake Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary

Often referred to as 'mini-Switzerland of India', Khajjiar is a small hill station in Himachal Pradesh near Dalhousie which provides tourists a unique combination of forests, lakes and pastures. The mesmerizing beauty of this place has greatly influenced and inspired many kingdoms throughout the years, including the Rajputs and Mughals. Enjoy some adventure sports including paragliding, zorbing, and horse-riding.

Best Time: Throughout the year

13 Khajjiar Attractions

Known For : Bhagsu Falls Namgyal Monastery Bhagsunag Temple

Mcleodganj is a hill station in Himachal Pradesh that is popular among trekkers. Also known as Little Lhasa and famous around the world for being home to the Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama, Mcleodganj is a beautiful town situated near upper Dharamsala. Nestled amidst majestic hills and lush greenery, this town is culturally blessed by a prominent Tibetan influence owing to the major settlement of Tibetans here.

Best Time: October to June

42 Mcleodganj Attractions

Known For : Monkey Point Mall Road Gilbert Trail

Located on the way from Chandigarh to Shimla, Kasauli is a hilly cantonment town which makes for an ideal peaceful holiday location, away from the rush. Kasauli is a cantonment town dotted with lavish Victorian buildings built by the Britishers who resided here years back. The quaint village has nature trails and beautiful viewpoints.

Best Time: Throughout the year

12 Kasauli Attractions

Known For : Rafting in Kullu Manali Raghunath Temple, Kullu Naggar

Kullu, a popular tourist hill station in Himachal Pradesh generally coupled with Manali, is an open valley with panoramic views and majestic hills covered with Deodar and Pine trees. Set in the lap of nature, the picturesque landscape of this small town is mesmerizing. Apart from temples, the Pandoh Dam and Chandrakhani Pass are also must-visits in this region. Kullu is also used as the base town to reach Manikaran, Kasol, Malana, Bhunter and Rohtang Pass too.

Best Time: October to June

28 Kullu Attractions

Known For : Skiing in Kufri Horse Ride to the Mahasu Peak Mahasu Peak

Kufri in Shimla district is a hill station in Himachal Pradesh which is one of the most sought after holiday destinations, and more so for couples, because of its proximity to Shimla and relatively higher altitude which makes it a place with snow all through the winters. The main tourist part of Kufri is located on Mahasu peak at a height of 2,720 metres above sea level and travellers have to either hike or take a pony from the parking lot to reach Kufri.

Best Time: November to March

11 Kufri Attractions

Known For : Tashi Jong Monastery Tea gardens in Palampur Saurabh Van Vihar

With pine and deodar forests and tea gardens encircling the town and numerous streams pouring in, Palampur is known for the enchanting combination of water and greenery. Nestled between the majestic Dhauladhar Ranges, Palampur has known the world over for its tea plantations and its fine quality of tea. Palampur was first noticed by Englishmen and soon turned into a bustling town as the centre of trade and commerce.

Best Time: Throughout the year

11 Palampur Attractions

Known For : Chamera Lake Manimahesh Lake Lakshmi Narayan Temple

Chamba is that one getaway you've always dreamed off. Minimal human alteration in the topography and environment and the balanced temperatures of the area make it the perfect destination all year round. The river Ravi cuts across town and adds to the scenery. Chambal is a hill station in Himachal Pradesh which is present at the confluence of two rivers, Ravi river with Chal river.

Best Time: October to June

18 Chamba Attractions

Known For : Kinnaur Kailash Trekking to Chakka Suicide Point

Kalpa, the main village of Kinnaur, in the Sutlej River Valley is a place to remember and cherish. Known for its many beautiful temples and monasteries, this hill station in Himachal Pradesh is also famed for its apple orchards. The majestic Kinnaur-Kailash range peeking from across the Sutlej River makes for a blissful break.

Best Time: March to September

10 Kalpa Attractions

Known For : River Crossing Serlosar Lake Jalori Pass

The land of untouched and mystifying beauty, Tirthan Valley is a destination with a plethora of delights. Lying nearly 3 km from the entrance of Great Himalayan National Park, this place is abundant in adventurous activities and a paradise for nature lovers. Magical ambience and lush green paths leading to nearby tiny and quaint hamlets accompanied by amazing weather throughout the year, Tirthan valley is great for those holidaymakers who seek adventure as well as peace.

Best Time: Mar to June, October to November

8 Tirthan Valley Attractions

Known For : Kangra Fort Baijnath Temple Brajeshwari Temple

For a spiritual retreat that will awaken inner peace, with a mighty Beas coursing through a lush green valley, Kangra is the hill station in Himachal Pradesh to visit. The Beas river flowing through Kangra and the repeated mention of the Valley in the holy Hindu texts, present Kangra as 'Devbhumi' or Land of the Gods. While there are enough stay and travel options available, plan your trip in advance keeping the climate of Kangra in mind. Rest assured, you're in for a visual and experiential treat.

Best Time: September to June

22 Kangra Attractions

Known For : Chail Palace Hotel Chail Cricket Ground Chail wildlife sanctuary

Chail is a quiet hill station in Himachal Pradesh close to Shimla, known for the world's highest cricket ground and the heritage hotel, Chail Palace, in the midst of pine and deodar trees. Chail also offers various trekking and camping options for adventure enthusiasts. Located on the banks of river Sandhupul, Chail also offers various camping options by the riverside. Travellers can also visit the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary here.

Best Time: Throughout the year

11 Chail Attractions

Known For : Skiing in Narkanda Hatu Peak Tannu Jubbar Lake

Surrounded by forests and woodlands, Narkanda is a quaint little town in Shimla district which is popular for skiing in winters. Situated at a height of 9000 feet, this town attracts tourists for its ethereal natural beauty and its beautiful apple orchards. Surrounded by tropical forests and majestic hills, this is one place that tourists to Himachal Pradesh should not miss.

Best Time: Throughout the year

11 Narkanda Attractions

Known For : Paragliding in Bir Billing Chokling Monastery Gunehar Waterfall

Bir is a small town located in the state of Himachal Pradesh in northern India. Bir Billing is a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh for adventures sports such as paragliding, treks and also as the town for meditation. Bir is considered as one of the best spots in the world for paragliding. The take-off site is called Billing and the landing site is Bir and the overall altitude change is around 800m. There are some pretty cafe dotting the town serving some delicious food.

Best Time: Throughout the year

29 Bir Attractions

Known For : Reckong Peo Kalpa Sarahan

Kinnaur, also known as "Land of God" is about 235 Km from Shimla and is known for its serenity and beauty of the lush green and rocky mountainscape having Satluj, Baspa and Spiti river snaking through it. Also known as "Land of God", the most important attraction of Kinnaur district is the religious "Shiva Lingam", the representation of Lord Shiva and the mesmerising rock formations change its colours several times during the day.

Best Time: April to October

11 Kinnaur Attractions

Known For : Chandratal Lake Key Monastery Kunzum Pass

Long winding roads and picturesque valleys presenting glimpses of cold deserts and snow-crowned mountains, with intermittent greenery and picture-perfect villages welcome you when you set foot into Spiti Valley. With the thick Himalayan snow cutting Spiti off from the rest of the country for around 6 months a year, the summer months are the only time Spiti is directly accessible via motorway.

Best Time: Mid May to Mid Oct

31 Spiti Attractions

Known For : Triund Dharamshala Cricket Stadium Namgyal Monastery, Mcleodganj

Dharamsala is famed as the holy residence of the Dalai Lama and houses the Tibetan monk in exile. Visit Dharamsala for amazing Tibetan food, stunning views of the Himachal peaks and to experience the peaceful hippie culture. The lower division is the Dharamsala town itself whereas the upper division is popularly known as Mcleodganj.

Best Time: October to June

37 Dharamsala Attractions

Known For : Renuka Lake Suketi Fossil Park Trekking in Nahan

Away from the buzzing crowd of the city, Nahan is a perfect romantic getaway. Lying among the lofty Shivalik range overlooking lush green fields, dirt free roads and clean streets, this small hill station serves as an ideal holiday destination. The quaint town today, is dotted with gardens, temples and a manmade lake. Visit Nahan, a cantonment town of Himachal for an unforgettable experience.

Best Time: April to September

20 Nahan Attractions

Known For : Reserve Forest Sanctuary Craignano WildFlower Hall Hotel

Mashobra is a lush green expanse of a hill station in Himachal Pradesh, tucked away at a height of about 7700 feet, ensuring minimal human obstruction in the course of nature to provide you with the most pure and liberating experience of your lifetime. Mashobra's proximity to Shimla makes it a perfect alternative for people who are looking for a peaceful little hill-station. With just about enough resorts and enchanting natural bounty, come to Mashobra if you have a for a lazy weekend outing or a week long vacation.

Best Time: April to June

10 Mashobra Attractions

Known For : Prashar Lake Trek Bhutnath temple Pandoh Dam

Packed with a thick green cover of pine and deodar trees, and with sprawling tea plantations, the town of Mandi is situated at the junction of Kulu and Dharamshala. It is often referred to as 'Varanasi of Hills', or 'Choti Kashi'. The town also has as many as 81 temples spread across its area. Lying on the banks of River Beas, Mandi also displays some old palaces and temples that can be dated back to the 5th Century AD.

Best Time: April to October

18 Mandi Attractions

Known For : Sangla Meadow Bering Nag temple Chitkul

One of the most charming valleys in the whole Kinnaur District, Sangla Valley is a perfect getaway from the hustle bustle of the swarming cities. It is named after a beautiful village by the same name. Bounded by strapping mountain slopes, sprawling evergreen forests and snow covered peaks, the valley is set apart from others by its red apples orchard and luscious cherry trees.

Best Time: April to June, September to December

10 Sangla Attractions

Known For : Kandaghat Trekking and Hiking Tara Devi Temple

While Shimla is being flooded by tourists every year, a serene, calm and epitome of beauty lies near it, waiting to be discovered. Shoghi, a small hill station in Himachal Pradesh just 13 Kms. from Shimla is abundant in natural scenic beauty and a large variety of flora and fauna. This small town offers from attractive old temples to adrenaline-teasing activities and its famous fruit made products.

Best Time: October to June

12 Shoghi Attractions

Known For : Hot Water Spring River Rafting in Tattapani Shiva cave

A famous tourist hill station in Himachal Pradesh, Tattapani is a quaint area nothing short of a wonderland. Almost 60 kms away from Shimla, it treasures several attractions lying amid nature in its best form. This beautiful place nestled among the mountains is something you don't want to miss. On asking the locals, you can always get to hear about the must-visit spots of the destination being - Shiva's Cave.

Best Time: October to June

9 Tattapani Attractions

Known For : Key Monastery Chandratal Lake Komic Village

Kaza, sitting huddled in the corner of Himachal Pradesh is a tranquil getaway on the plains of the Spiti River. Lapped by majestic mountains covered in snow, meandering rivers and bubbling streams, Kaza is a dream hill station in Himachal Pradesh.

Best Time: May to September

12 Kaza Attractions

Known For : Waterfall Point Jalori Pass Serolsar Lake

Shojha is a small village sitting quietly in the middle of wilderness and panorama. Its untouched beauty might be just the thing that you need to relax and unwind. Located amid the Banjar Valley, the village is dotted with several temples made of wood.

Best Time: April to June

5 Shojha Attractions

Known For : Timber Trail Cable car Ride Fruit orchards

Situated on the border of Haryana and Himachal Pradesh, Parwanoo is a small town with beautiful apple orchards and delicious other fruits. This is a place where one can enjoy the captivating ambience of a hill station and hustle-bustle of a city. An ideal getaway for outdoor activities such as trekking and hiking, it is also a destination for nature lovers. 

Best Time: March to May, October to November

11 Parwanoo Attractions

Often referred to as a mesmerising "hamlet" situated amidst the lush green forests and surrounded by variegated mountains, Jibhi is located in the Tirthan Valley of Himachal Pradesh. The dense pine forests, tranquil freshwater lakes and pristine temples make this place worth visiting. The cosy Victorian-style cottages in which you can stay are an added bonus that makes you feel as if you are living in the Victorian Period. 

Gulaba is a beautiful little village located about 20 kilometres from Manali on the route to Rohtang Pass having an enchanting natural landscape that attracts tourists in large numbers. One can explore the region trekking, and setting up a camp to soak in its natural beauty. Most of the tourists explore Gulaba are on their way to the Bhrigu Lake and set camps on the Gulaba Meadows to rest.