Places to Visit Near Chandigarh | Weekend Getaways from Chandigarh

Known For : Jakhu Temple Mall Road, Shimla Rashtrapati Niwas (Viceregal Lodge)

Situated at the height of 2200m, Shimla is the capital and the largest city of Himachal Pradesh in India. Set amidst beautiful hills and mystical woods, Shimla has been a very popular hill-station among Indian families and honeymooners. Shimla still retains its old-world charm with beautiful colonial architecture, pedestrian-friendly Mall Road and the ridge lined up with multiple shops, cafes and restaurants. Shimla can be reached from Chandigarh by road either by taxi or by bus. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 112 km

Best Time: October to June

65 Shimla Attractions

Known For : Robber's Cave Mindrolling Monastery Tapkeshwar Temple

Nestled amidst the Doon Valley in the state of Uttarakhand, Dehradun city is a very popular hill station that beckons solo travellers, families and couples alike. Known as the 'Winter Capital of Uttarakhand', it proudly boasts of a scenic backdrop of the Garhwal Himalayas. Dehradun is located at an altitude of 1400 feet above sea level and has a pleasant climate all year round. The city has many family-friendly tourist spots, adventure activities on offer and is laden with cute little cafes. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 172 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

38 Dehradun Attractions

Known For : Solang Valley Hadimba Devi Temple Manali Mall Road

Situated in between the snow-capped slopes of the Pir Panjal and the Dhauladhar ranges, Manali is one of the most popular hill stations in the country. With jaw-dropping views, lush green forests, sprawling meadows carpeted with flowers, gushing blue streams, Manali has been blessed with extraordinary scenic beauty. From museums to temples, from quaint little hippie villages to bustling upscale streets, river adventures to trekking trails, Manali has every reason to be the tourist magnet it is, all year round.

Distance from Chandigarh: 287 km

Best Time: October to June

53 Manali Attractions

Known For : Monkey Point Toy Train Ride Timber Trail

Located on the way from Chandigarh to Shimla, Kasauli is a hilly cantonment town which makes for an ideal peaceful holiday location, especially for a weekend getaway. Nestled amidst beautiful woody forests of pines (Chir Pine), herbs (Milk Thistle) and cedar trees, Kasauli owes its mystical and serene ambience to the lavish Victorian buildings built by the Britishers who resided here years back. Trekking and Camping are popular activities here. One can easily take their private vehicle or hire a taxi to reach Kasauli. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 58 km

Best Time: March - June; September - November

13 Kasauli Attractions

Known For : Renuka Lake Suketi Fossil Park Trekking in Nahan

Like a few other places on this list, 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. It is believed that the town derives its name from a sage named Nahar who lived at the same site where this town stands today. The quaint town today is dotted with gardens, temples and a manmade lake.

Distance from Chandigarh: 85 km

Best Time: April to September

21 Nahan Attractions

Known For : Naddi View Point St. John in the Wilderness Church Dalai Lama Temple

Mcleodganj is a hill station near Dharamshala, popular among trekkers. Located in Kangra district, Mcleodganj's culture is a beautiful blend of Tibetan with some British influence. Also known as Little Lhasa, the town is famous around the world for being home to the Tibetan spiritual leader, Dalai Lama. Few of the most eminent and religiously significant monasteries in India are located here, including the Namgyal Monastery and Tsuglagkhang, where the spiritual leader Dalai Lama resides. Tourists must also visit the scenic Dal Lake and Triund, which are apt for quiet picnics.

Distance from Chandigarh: 248 km

Best Time: October to June

42 Mcleodganj Attractions

Known For : Himalayan Nature Park (Kufri Zoo) Skiing in Kufri Mahasu Peak

Kufri in Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh 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. While there's not much to see in Kufri as such, but the panoramic views and temples after a bit of trekking are worth the time. There are many taxis which can easily be hired to go to Kufri from Shimla. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 126 km

Best Time: November to March

12 Kufri Attractions

Known For : Mussoorie Mall Road Lal Tibba Kempty Falls

Mussoorie is one of the most popular hill stations located at a short distance from Dehradun. With a backdrop of the Shivalik range and doon valley, Mussoorie is also known as Queen of The Hill Stations. This little town has a cool, pleasant climate throughout the year. The fact that it was a popular holiday destination during the British era can be seen from British remnants in the city, such as the archaic architecture of the hotels and churches. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 201 km

Best Time: September to June

36 Mussoorie Attractions

Known For : Morni Hills Pinjore Gardens Cactus Garden, Panchkula

One of the most planned towns of Haryana, Panchkula is a satellite town that forms the Tricity with Chandigarh and Mohali. Sector 5 in Panchkula is popular for its variety of entertainment and eating out options. It even has an open-air amphitheatre and the Terminals Ballistic Research Laboratory of the DRDO. Panchkula is also a place which is used as a halt before going to nearby hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 11 km

Best Time: October to Apr

11 Panchkula Attractions

Known For : Manikaran Sahib Nature Park Kasol Tosh

A small village in Himachal 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 village is resplendent in natural scenic beauty. Situated 23 kms from Bhuntar and next to the religious town of Manikaran, Kasol is one of the best places in the country just to sit back and chill in the hills. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 269 km

Best Time: October to June

30 Kasol Attractions

Known For : Triveni Ghat Rafting in Rishikesh Lakshman Jhula

Located in the foothills of the Himalayas along the convergence of Ganga and Chandrabhaga River, Rishikesh (also called as Hrishikesh) is known for its adventure activities, ancient temples, popular cafes and as the "Yoga Capital of the World". With whitewater rafting industry growing and varied camping and cafe spots springing up, Rishikesh has grown immensely as a favourite, catering to people with different needs. Taking a private vehicle or hired taxi to reach Rishikesh from Chandigarh is the best option of travel. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 224 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

54 Rishikesh Attractions

Known For : Naini Lake Snow View Point Mall Road Nainital

The gem of Uttarakhand - Nainital is a charming hill station that sits prettily at the green foothills of the Kumaon ranges in the Himalayas. Located at an elevation of around 1938 metres, the epicentre of the town's popularity and beauty lies within the gorgeous Naini Lake, after which the town is named. Nainital brims with elegant colonial structures that amplify the beauty of this place. It is a perfect weekend getaway from Chandigarh during the hot summers. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 515 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

33 Nainital Attractions

Known For : Panchpula Dainkund Peak Beeji's Park

The tiny tinsel town of Dalhousie is a paradise tucked away in the lap of Himachal Pradesh. It boasts of old-world charm, mesmerising natural landscapes, pine-clad valleys, flower-bedecked meadows, fast-flowing rivers and magnificent misty mountains. This hill station was one of the favourite summer destinations of the Britishers during the Indian colonial era. The Scottish and Victorian architecture reminds you of its colonial heritage. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 316 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

29 Dalhousie Attractions

Known For : Har Ki Pauri Maa Mansa Devi Temple Ganga Aarti Sthal

Haridwar, considered to be among the seven holiest cities in India, is an ancient city located on the banks of River Ganga in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. Dotted with temples, ashrams and narrow lanes across the city, Haridwar is a famous Hindu temple town where millions of devotees come to take a dip in the holy Ganges. It's believed that taking a dip in the holy Har Ki Pauri relieves you of all your sins.

Distance from Chandigarh: 204 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

36 Haridwar Attractions

Known For : Dalai Lama Temple St. John in the Wilderness Church Dharamshala Cricket Stadium

Dharamsala is located in Kangra district at a distance of 18km from Kangra city. Dharamsala is separated as upper and lower divisions with different altitudes. The lower division is the Dharamsala town itself. whereas, the upper-division is located 3km away and popularly known as Mcleodganj(Famed as the holy residence of the Dalai Lama and Tibetans in exile). Dharamsala is quite popular for its bustling market.

Distance from Chandigarh: 239 km

Best Time: October to June

40 Dharamsala Attractions

Known For : Reckong Peo Nako Kalpa

One of the twelve districts of Himachal Pradesh, Kinnaur is located on the Indo-Tibet border. Situated at a distance of 235 km from Shimla, Kinnaur hosts the views of Zanskar Valley and snow-draped Dhauladar range and have Satluj, Baspa and Spiti rivers meandering through it. Kinnaur also has a vast scope in adventure sports like trekking and skiing. There are about nine known routes for trekking and some which are five days or six-day trips. Kinnaur is well known for its delicious apples, Chilgoza, handlooms and handicrafts materials.

Distance from Chandigarh: 369 km

Best Time: April to June; September, October

16 Kinnaur Attractions

Known For : Great Himalayan National Park Serlosar Lake Jibhi

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. 'The valley is best known for its trout fishing, trekking, and adventure activities and beautiful guesthouses set in nature. Tirthan Valley can easily be reached by road from Chandigarh. Taking a car is convenient and time efficient. 

Best Time: Mar to June, October to November

11 Tirthan Valley Attractions

Known For : Skiing in Narkanda Hatu Peak Hatu Mata Temple

Surrounded by forests and woodlands, Narkanda is a quaint little town in Shimla district which is popular for skiing in winters. Surrounded by tropical forests and majestic hills, Narkanda also has a lake called the Tannu Jabar Lake which is one of the most important tourist attraction here. There also exists a temple near the lake which is frequented by devotees coming here. Narkanda also has various trekking routes which can be tackled all year round. One such trek is the Hatu Nag hill which one can trek up to. This hill offers a panoramic view of the town below.

Distance from Chandigarh: 172 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

11 Narkanda Attractions

Known For : Valley of Flowers National Park Nanda Devi National Park Fauna & Flora

Valley of Flowers is located in Chamoli district (near Badrinath) of Uttarakhand, approximately 300 km to the north of Rishikesh. This is a picturesque national park, gracing the beauty of Western Himalayas.  Valley of flowers was discovered in 1931 and is a World Heritage Site for its wild untamed blooms surrounded by white peaks. Famous for its exotic varieties of medicinal herbs, it is also believed that Hanuman brought Sanjivani to the ailing Lakshmana from the valley of flowers.

Best Time: May to October

3 Valley Of Flowers Attractions

Known For : Chail wildlife sanctuary Camping Kali Temple, Chail

Chail is a quiet hill station 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. The polo grounds and a luxurious resort situated on three hilltops are also quite popular among tourists. Once the summer capital of the Patiala Kings, Chail palace has now been converted into a hotel and a tourist destination. One must also visit the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary when here with friends or family. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 109 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

11 Chail 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 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. People can also go for short hikes, visit the monasteries, take a ride in the nearby Jogindernagar-Pathankot Narrow Gauge train or just spend a day at the tea gardens. One can take the daily buses from Chandigarh to Bir or hire a private taxi. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 283 km

Best Time: March - May; September - November

29 Bir Attractions

Known For : New Tehri Dhanaulti Camping

Once a deserted land, today Kanatal is a usual haunt for those travellers who seek peace and solitude. Kanatal is said to be named after a lake that once existed there. Apart from peace, the place exhibits a charm in form of majestic hills, fruit trees, apple orchards and lush green forests. A great pick as an offbeat place to visit near Chandigarh, it is best to reach Kanatal by road with private vehicles or hired taxis being the most common. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 245 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

10 Kanatal Attractions

Known For : Reserve Forest Sanctuary Carignano Nature Park WildFlower Hall Hotel

Mashobra is a lush green expanse in Himachal Pradesh, tucked away at a height of about 7700 feet. Mashobra's proximity to Shimla makes it a perfect alternative for people who are looking for an alternative to a busy tourist spot. 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.

Distance from Chandigarh: 122 km

Best Time: April to June

11 Mashobra Attractions

Known For : Prashar Lake Trek Bhutnath temple Pandoh Dam

Packed with a thick green cover of pine and deodar trees, the town of Mandi is situated at the junction of Kullu and Dharamshala. It is often referred to as 'Varanasi of Hills', or 'Choti Kashi' as the town has as many as 81 temples spread across its area. Mandi is also home to old palaces and temples that can be dated back to the 5th Century AD. Serving as a gateway to some famous valleys such as Kullu, Manali, Spiti and Lahaul, Mandi is must on your north India itinerary. The town is also the nearest town to various treks like Prashar lake and Janjheli.

Distance from Chandigarh: 182 km

Best Time: April to October

18 Mandi Attractions

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

A popular tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh, Tattapani is a quaint village located 60 kms away from Shimla. Situated on the banks of river Sutlej, it treasures several attractions lying amid nature in its best form. It is famous for its Hot sulphur spring that is believed to have curative properties for health ailments like stress, joint pain, fatigue and other skin diseases.

Distance from Chandigarh: 130 km

Best Time: October to June

9 Tattapani Attractions

Known For : Toy Train Saurabh Van Vihar Neugal Khad

Palampur is a popular town of Himachal Pradesh located in the Kangra district. Nestled between the majestic Dhauladhar Ranges, this hilly town is known for its tea plantations and its excellent quality of tea. Palampur was first noticed by the Englishmen and was soon turned into a bustling town as the centre of trade and commerce. Their presence in this town is beautifully reflected in the Victorian style mansions and castles. Palampur is best reached from Chandigarh by private vehicle or by hired taxi. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 255 km

Best Time: March -June; September - November

15 Palampur Attractions

Known For : Kangra Fort Masrur Shaktipeeth Shri Brijeshwari Devi Temple

Kangra is a district in Himachal Pradesh with Dharamshala as the administrative headquarters. With might Beas River flowing through the Valley, Kangra is also known for the backdrop of Dhauladar range, ancient temples and endless tea plantations. Repeated mention of the Valley in the holy Hindu texts, present Kangra as 'Devbhumi' or Land of the Gods.

Distance from Chandigarh: 222 km

Best Time: September to June

22 Kangra Attractions

Known For : Kasauli Nalagarh Fort Kuthar Fort

Solan is a more low-key hill station ideal for travellers looking just some time away from the city rush. A beautiful city in Himachal Pradesh, Solan has ancient temples and monasteries that attract hundreds of tourists and devotees every year. Solan has one of the oldest breweries in the country and is popularly known as the mushroom capital of the country owing to the large quantity of mushrooms produced every year. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 65 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

17 Solan Attractions

Known For : Dodital Lake Nachiketa Lake Dodital Dayara Pass Trek

Endearingly called as Devbhoomi, Uttarkashi, literally meaning 'Kashi of the North', is a quaint little town tucked away in the hill state of Uttarakhand. Revered by the Hindus as one of their propitious religious sites, the townhouses two of the total four holy shrines of Hindu mythology. The region was more in the favour of religious tourism initially but lately, the spurring of trekking and adventure activities invites a lot of non-religion tourists as well. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 312 km

Best Time: March to June, September to November

9 Uttarkashi Attractions

Known For : Kalpa Monastery Trekking to Chaka Suicide Point

Kalpa, the main village of Kinnaur, in the Sutlej River Valley is known for its many beautiful temples and monasteries. The town is also famed for its sprawling apple orchards. The majestic Kinnaur-Kailash range peeking from across the Sutlej River makes for a blissful break. Kalpa is best reached from Chandigarh by private vehicle or by hired taxi. An overnight halt is also recommended for a non-tiring journey. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 343 km

Best Time: March to June; October - November

10 Kalpa Attractions

Located at a distance of 4km from Kasol in the Parvati Valley along the banks of river Parvati in the Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh, Manikaran is known as a famous pilgrimage destination for both Sikhs and Hindus. Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib is the prime attraction with its hot springs being a place where devotees come to bathe from far and wide. One can hire an affordable taxi from Shimla to reach Manikaran Sahib. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 273 km

Best Time: October to June

3 Manikaran Sahib Attractions

Known For : Vaishno Devi Mandir Ardhkuwari

Located in Trikuta hills, 13 kms from Katra (in Jammu and Kashmir); Vaishno Devi is a town that's home to the famous Vaishno Devi Mandir. This renowned shrine allures millions of devotees from all over the world. Popularly known as Mata Rani, Vaishnavi and Trikuta, Vaishno Devi is a manifestation of the Hindu Goddess Durga. It is believed that during the pooja and aarti, Goddesses arrive at the Holy cave to pay their respect to Mata Rani.

Distance from Chandigarh: 401 km

Best Time: March to June

11 Vaishno Devi Attractions

Known For : Shri Raghunath Temple Vaishno Devi Shree Ranbireshwar Temple

Jammu is the southernmost-part of the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir which sits proudly on the magnificent Shivalik mountain ranges. The Winter Capital of Kashmir, Jammu is a holy and peaceful city known for its majestic temples, religious shrines, glittering "shikhars", and cultural heritage. Since it is also the starting point to the hugely popular Vaishno Devi Temple and Amarnath Yatra, it is visited by tourists from far and wide. Taking the bus to reach Jammu from Chandigarh is the most convenient mode of transport. Most tourists choose to take an overnight bus journey. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 344 km

Best Time: September to March

31 Jammu Attractions

Known For : Confluence of Bhagirathi and Alaknanda Raghunathji Temple Chandrabadani Temple

Situated amidst rolling Himalayan ranges, Devprayag is a popular pilgrimage centre for Hindus. With ancient temples and idols amidst lush green surroundings, this place is beautiful and serene. It derives its religious significance from the vibrant rivers & natural elements that surround it. Dasharathachal Peak, Chandrabadani temple and Raghunathji temple are among some of the popular attractions here. Water sports and trekking are fun activities in Devprayag.

Distance from Chandigarh: 286 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

3 Devprayag Attractions

Garhmukteshwar is a heritage town that dates back to having been part of ancient Hastinapur. It currently falls in the Hapur district of Uttar Pradesh. The town is devoted to the worship of Goddess Ganga with four temples dedicated to her, including the main temple of Mukteshwar Mahadev. The river confluence here is also famous for dolphin sightings. Travelling by train to Garhmukteshwar from Chandigarh is the best option for travel. One can also take an overnight bus journey at affordable rates. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 324 km

Best Time: March to May

Nelong Valley lies 45km away from the Indo-Tibetan border, around 256km from Dehradun, Uttarakhand. It is considered to be one of the most thrilling mountaineering treks in India. At a height of 11,000ft, the view across the valley is breathtaking. The valley offers a clear and surreal view of the Tibetan Plateau. Gartang Gali, a wooden walkway, is a main attraction of the valley said to have been built in the 17th Century. Nelong Valley can be reached by hiring a taxi. An overnight halt can be made in Dehradun. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 424 km

Best Time: May-June or September-October

Known For : Nathatop Skiing in Patnitop Patni Top Park

Also spelt Patni Top, it is a famous hill station in the Udhampur district of Jammu & Kashmir. Along with the widespread abundance in sceneries, Patnitop is known for activities like skiing and trekking as well as water springs, altogether making it a popular tourist destination. Sanasar, located 17 kms away is also popular for a paragliding base, golf courses along with extended sightseeing options. To reach Patnitop from Chandigarh, one should first take an overnight train journey to Udhampur and hire a taxi to continue onwards. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 411 km

Best Time: Throughout the year

13 Patnitop Attractions

Known For : Auli Ropeway Skiing in Auli Joshimath

Auli is a popular skiing destination in India because of its glittering slopes and clean environment. Dotted with apple orchards, oaks and deodars, Auli is a popular hill town with numerous ski resorts situated amidst the Himalayan range. Located at 2800 meters above sea levels, it is home to mountain ranges of Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat and Kamat Kamet. Many religious destinations are also scattered around Auli. It is believed that Shankracharya had blessed Auli with his visit.

Distance from Chandigarh: 476 km

Best Time: December - February

12 Auli Attractions

14 kilometres to the north-west of the main town of Manali, Solang Valley is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh. Situated on the way to Rohtang from Manali, every year the valley welcomes tourists in huge numbers. A favourite for adventure enthusiasts, parachuting to paragliding, horse riding to driving mini-open jeeps specially available for tourists of all age groups, Solang Valley has it all.

Distance from Chandigarh: 299 km

Known For : Shri Kedarnath Jyotirlinga Temple Adi Shankaracharya Samadhi Sonprayag

Located on the Garhwal Himalayan Range in the Rudraprayag District, Kedarnath is one of the most sacred temples and the holiest Hindu pilgrimages in India. A part of Chhota Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand, Kedarnath is the most revered among the 12 Jyotirlingas in India dedicated to Lord Shiva. Kedarnath Temple can only be reached from Gaurikund through a trek and remains open only for six months from April to November, due to heavy snowfall in the region the rest of the months.

Best Time: May to June, September to October

14 Kedarnath Attractions

Other than being famous a tourist destination, Manali is also the way to one of the most undertaken treks - the Beas Kund Trek. This trek is a perfect weekend getaway plan which takes you away from the hustle and bustle of the city life. Get a chance to feast your eyes on the outstanding views of Pir Pinjal mountain ranges over the Beas river, let your soul get wooed by the spectacular meadows of Dhundi and Bakarthach and finally, the glacial lake at Beas Kund which is worth all the hiking.

Located at a distance of 51 kilometres from Manali, Rohtang Pass can be reached only by road. The pass is located at a massive height of 3978 metres and is a popular spot for some adventure sports in the snow. Activities such as snowboarding, which involves sliding through the snow in a wooden toboggan, skiing and mountain biking are quite popular. Owing to its splendid natural beauty, Rohtang Pass is a favourite among the community of film directors. Many blockbusters ranging from 'Jab We Met' to 'Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani' have been shot here.

Distance from Chandigarh: 338 km

Regarded as one of the most challenging treks in the northern Himalayan region, Parvati Valley Trek is perfect for those who wish to test themselves. The Parvati Valley Trek is quite long and taxing, but the reward is extremely exhilarating. As the altitude increases, the surroundings become more enchanting adorned with dense forests, lush green meadows and a plethora of gushing streams, all being flanked by majestic snow-clad peaks. Kasol is the base for most groups trekking to Parvati Valley. With an overnight halt at Kasol, one can start out for Kheerganga early in the morning. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 248 km

Set amidst semi-frozen rivers in the Pin Valley, the Pin Valley National Park is situated in the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve situated in the Lahaul and Spiti District of Himachal Pradesh. The Pin Valley National Park is home to the rare species of Himalayan snow leopards and their prey, the Ibex. The National  Park is also quite popular for its incredible trek which is a delight for all its visitors.  It snows for the most part of the year rendering the trek a thrilling and adventurous expedition. However, make sure you obtain the required permits.

Sarahan is a beautiful hamlet situated near Kinnaur in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Known as the "Gateway to Kinnaur", it is located near the Sutlej River Valley and the Indo Tibetan road, at an altitude of 2165 m below sea level. Famous for the never-ending apple orchards, dense emerald pine and deodar forests, gushing streams, wildflower fields rustic settings, terraced farms and slate-roofed houses,  the village is a sight to behold. The unparalleled beauty of the landscape, with mountains flanked by cliffs on one side and lush ravines on the other, not to forget the Srikhand Mahadev Peak make Sarahan a memorable place.

Distance from Chandigarh: 274 km

Popular for its cannabis plantations, the tranquil village of Tosh is just another example of the unparalleled natural beauty that Himachal Pradesh holds within its bounds. Located at the far end of Parvati Valley, Tosh is untouched by modernisation and fast-paced life. With its gradual terrain and the waters of river Parvati flowing through its bosom, the Tosh Kasol trek is the go-to expedition for all adrenaline junkies. The hippie culture and otherworldly vibe is what attracts visitors from far and wide. 

Distance from Chandigarh: 269 km

One of the most offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh, Prashar Lake is a crystal clear water body situated about 50 km north of Mandi, with a three storied pagoda-like temple dedicated to the sage Prashar. The lake is located at the height of 2730 m above sea level with deep blue waters and holds a saintly position there. Bounded by mighty Dhauladhar ranges in Kullu Valley, the lake looks down on the fast-flowing river Beas.  The lake has a floating island in it, and its actual depth is unclear. Its lush green valleys, interspersed with rivers and lakes offer one of the most scenic and enjoyable trekking experiences.

Distance from Chandigarh: 232 km