The beauty of Himachal Pradesh has inspired many poets, painters, and writers over the period. Many of Himachal Pradesh's cities and towns such as Shimla, Manali, Kullu, Dharamsala, etc. are hailed among the best hill stations of India and are flocked by tourists all around the year. However, due to their immense popularity, these hill stations are always crowded and may appear even busier than metro cities. This post is for those travellers looking for Unexplored Places In Himachal Pradesh. There are many little gems in Himachal most of the people are clueless about.
18 Unexplored Places In Himachal Pradesh That You Must Visit For Your Love for Mountains:
18 Unexplored Places In Himachal Pradesh That You Must Visit For Your Love for Mountains:
1. Kalpa
Kalpa is one of the biggest villages in Kinnaur district and is known for its lush pine nut forests and the breathtaking scenery which has snow-covered peaks of Kinnaur Kailash as the backdrop. There is a myriad of apple orchards in the area, apples being the main cash crop of for the locals. The sacred Kailash Shivling which is known to change colour throughout the day can be gazed from here. A temple devoted to goddess Chandika is also situated at a distance of 11 km from Kalpa. The temple is known for its unique architecture and is a must visit spot near Kalpa.
2. Sangla
Sangla valley is 57 Km from Kalpa and is situated on the bank of River Baspa. It is the most charming valley in the entire District of Kinnaur and a beautiful unexplored place in Himachal Pradesh. The natural scenery all around and the captivating view of snow-clad mountains are something that will hook you right since you first set foot in the valley. It is also known as Baspa Valley since Baspa River flows through the region. A temple dedicated to Nagas god is a must-visit, and other places of interest are Sapni, Rackchham, Kilba and Kamru Fort.
3. Barog
Barog falls on the Kalka - Shimla Highway in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh and is a beautiful stopover destination while heading towards Shimla. Surrounded by pine and oak forests, Barog has a scenic ambience. The quaint little village offers a glorious view of the Churdhar Peak, which poetically translates into 'Mountain of the Silver Bangle'. Barog is slowly becoming a popular destination for corporate getaways too.
4. Barot
Barot falls in the Mandi district of Himachal and is an ideal destination for unique outdoor activities. The village serves as a breeding centre for trout fishes and has several fishing farms. Barot houses the Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary as well which is home to many Himalayan species such as Himalayan Gorals, Himalayan Black Bears, and many different pheasants. The village has many trekking trails, with one of them cutting through the sanctuary and leading towards Kullu.
5. Chindi
Chindi is a charming off-beat destination that falls on the Shimla-Mandi highway via Tattapani, in Karsog Valley. Located around 90 km from Shimla, the town is famous for the presence of many sacred temples like Mahunag Temple, Mamleshwar Mahadev Temple, Kamaksha Devi temple, Pangna Killa temple and Shikari Devi Temple. The landscape here is dotted with various apple plantations and thick pine forests. Chindi offers some exciting treks too, such as the 2 km Bakrote trek which leads to Shikari Devi Temple.
6. Churdhar
'Dressed in moonlight' is the translation of the word 'Churdhar', and the place rightly lives up to its name. The night here comes with a beautiful picture of the mountains basking in the glory of the moon. A trek from Sarain leads you through mystic deodar forests to the ancient temple of Srigul. The 48 km long trek to this destination is worth all your time and energy as the experience of stillness and peace here will stay with you forever. A gigantic concrete statue of Lord Shiva sits atop the peak offering a bird-eye view of the chaotic town below.
7. Chitkul
Chitkul is a little hamlet hiding in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. Lying on the Indo-Tibetan border, it is the last inhabited village on the trail and the last destination in India which can be visited without the need for a permit. River Baspa runs all along the journey making for a gorgeous companion. The valley provides a spectacular view of fruit-laden orchards, mustard fields, plush green vegetation patches and stark white Himalayas in the background. The valley is also famous for good quality peas and potatoes.
8. Malana
Malana is a small village, sleeping peacefully in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. The most intriguing fact about this hidden gem is that its residents believe themselves to be the direct descendants of Alexander the Great. The place has its own set administrative laws and practices that closely resemble that of the Greek administrative system. The glorious Chandrakhani and Deotibba peaks stand over the village protecting it from the outside world.
9. Thanedar
Housing umpteen apple and cherry orchards, Thanedar offers unparalleled bliss to nature lovers. Enjoy plucking the fruits from the myriad of trees that supply tons of cartons full of juicy apples all over India and abroad. There are many resorts that overlook the red orchards that can take you into a trance of nature. The nearby places that can be visited are Nag Devta Temple, Tani-Jubbar Lake, St. Mary's Church and Hatu Peak that provides a stunning view of the snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas.
10. Shoja
Shoja lies 5 km before Jalori Pass, on the alternative route that connects Shimla with Kullu valley. Unblemished by the spots of commercialisation, Shoja is a perfect hamlet to relax and soak in the fresh mountain air. Located in the Seraj Valley, Serloskar Lake is a famous attraction here, known for its picture-perfect sunset. At a short distance, lies a natural waterfall, where you can take a chilling bath or just laze around under the sun while savouring a drink.
11. Gushaini
Known for its abundance of Trout fishes found in the Tirthan River, Gushaini is an idyllic spot for fishing. Tourists whose idea of a perfect holiday entails of camping and trekking, Gusahini offers plenty of opportunities. Tents can be set up on the banks of the river to enjoy an undisturbed view of the mountains while immersing in some soul-searching. The Great Himalayan National Park is situated about 20 km away, and a great variety of flora and fauna, including over 30 species of mammals and 300 species of birds can be observed here.
12. Jalori Jot
Jalori Jot is bestowed with unspoiled natural splendour and is one of the best trekking trails in Himachal. You can stay at Shoja and drive down to Jalori Jot to undertake a trek to the popular Sareyol Lake adjacent to the Jalori Jot Temple. The trekking trail is of 4 km till the lake. It is a must-visit destination for those looking to spend some time in the lap of nature and not engage in too many touristic activities.
13. Rakcham
The Rakcham valley is another unexplored gem of Himachal Pradesh, surrounded by pristine white mountains. River Baspa meanders at the side making Rakcham a traveller's heaven. The town lies between Sangla and Chitkul, not far off from the Indo-Tibetan border. Rakcham follows a blend of Hindu and Buddhist faiths with two Hindu temples and a Buddhist temple present. The region has good wildlife with a variety of Himalayan animals, including Musk Deer, Goral, Blue Sheep, Brown Trout, Himalayan Black Bear and Leopard.
14. Hampta Pass
Another lesser-known retreat in the heart of Himachal is Hampta Pass. It lies at an altitude of 4270 m in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas and is a small corridor between Lahaul and Kullu valley of the state. Majestic views of lush green valleys, snow-laden peaks and barren hills with differentiated forms and shapes are what awaits for a traveller at Hamta. Hampta Pass trek is a good alternative to the much-crowded vehicle route of Rohtang Pass.
15. Pabbar Valley
This less-frequented valley lies northeast from the tiny village of Hatkoti and is about a hundred km east of Shimla. Hatkoti's 8th-century Kinnaur style Hatkeshwari Mata Temple and the adjacent Shiva temple are the major attractions here. Shaivite pilgrims visit these holy sites during the Navratra time periods in April and October.
16. DadaSiba
DadaSiba falls on the extreme western end of Himachal Pradesh, close to the state border with Punjab. The Village is a part of Pragpur Tehsil in Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh and is located 43 km south of Dharamsala. The village houses a unique architectural marvel in the form of a temple dedicated Radha and Krishna. A part of the stone for the temple came from Jodhpur, and special stone for the doorposts and lintels was quarried near the fort of Mangarh.
17. Pangi Valley
173 Km from Chamba via Sach Pass, Pangi valley is full of splendid beauty and tribal atmosphere. Surrounded by the Peer Panjal and Zanskar ranges, the valley remains inaccessible for about six months due to heavy snowfall. During the summer months, it is opened for tourists and offers a wealth of flowers, trees, shrubs, streams and wildlife, hiding away under the snow. It is an absolutely breathtaking destination which cannot be expressed in words and should be experienced by everyone.
18. Pragpur
Pragpur is a heritage village located in the Kangra valley. The village has several streams that culminate in River Beas. Many structures of historical, religious and cultural importance can be found here. Due to its pleasant climate, easy access, smooth road and rich flora and fauna, Pragpur makes up for a viable village tourism destination in Himachal. The ambience of the heritage village is delicately preserved by the residents and restoration work of ancient buildings also promises to maintain the quaintness Pragpur.
Not many of us are aware of these beautiful gems of Himachal Pradesh. Waiting to be discovered, these untouched and virgin towns and valleys will rejuvenate your heart and soul completely. Keep these hidden treasures of on your to-do list and next time hit the road less travelled to reach these places.