Himachal Pradesh Tourism (2024) > HP India, Best Places, Packages

Himachal Pradesh Travel Packages

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5 Days / 4 Nights

Spark of Shimla & Manali 3 Night & 4 Days

Manali(2N) → Shimla(1N)

Trek India Holidays

4.8 (78 reviews)

$ 11,000

99% off

$108/person

6 Days / 5 Nights

5 Nights 6 Days Shimla Manali Tour Package

Shimla(2N) → Manali(3N)

Aaltacus Vacations

4.7 (22 reviews)

$ 8,999

99% off

$84/person

5 Days / 4 Nights

Himachal Tour Package with Golden Temple: Amrit...

Amritsar(1N) → Dalhousie(2N) → Dharamshala(1N)

$240/person

4 Days / 3 Nights

Kullu Manali Volvo Tour Package for 3 Nights

Manali(3N)

Himalayan Seekers

4.7 (31 reviews)

$ 8,500

99% off

$84/person

6 Days / 5 Nights

Manali Tour Package in December

Manali(3N) → Shimla(2N)

$ 347

15% off

$294/person

3 Days / 2 Nights

Shimla Itinerary 3 Days - Relaxing Family Package

Shimla(2N) → Kufri(0N) → Chail(0N)

$ 168

16% off

$141/person

View All Packages For Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh Travel Essentials

Rating:

4.5 /5 Rate This State

Ideal duration: 4 - 15 days

Best Time: October - June Read More

Major Airports: Chandigarh, Shimla, Kangra, Bhuntar

Read more about Airports in Himachal Pradesh

"Land of Himalayas"

Himachal Pradesh, India

Situated in north India amidst the lower Himalayan ranges, Himachal Pradesh is a breathtaking state synonymous with lush greenery, spectacular views of mighty mountains and valleys, a rich culture, delicious food, adventure sports, a colonial past, and so much more. An absolute treat for adventure seekers, families, honeymooners and solo travellers, the many cities within the state have plenty to offer to tourists and locals alike.

Experience the colonial period of Himachal in Shimla and the snow capped mountains of Manali. If you're an adrenaline junkie, don't miss out on trekking, paragliding, skiing, and other adventure activities in Solang Valley and Bir Billing. For a touch of Buddhist culture, head to Mcleodganj, the residence of Dalai Lama which houses beautiful tibetan temples and monasteries.Dalhousie is perfect for a leisure trip amidst the sprawling meadows, dense forests, cascading waterfalls, misty mountains and more. Finally Kasol, the Amsterdam of India, is a more off-beat destination for campers and trekkers. Finally, explore the rugged beauty of Spiti Valley and the serene charm of Tirthan Valley.

Himachal Pradesh is a state rich in culture and traditions, whether in terms of art, cuisine, or festivals. Tourists can also scour its many markets for Pashmina shawls, Himachali caps, Chamba rumals, jewellery, metalwork etc. Any visit to the state would be incomplete without tasting some of its delicacies like dhaam, madra, chha gosht, and many Tibetan dishes. And it would undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience to witness some of Himachal's most well-known festivals, like Kullu Dussehra, which is a week-long affair.

The best time to visit the state is between February to June (Spring and Summer) and it's easily accessible via road. Apart from the regular buses that ply through the state, it features three small airports: Gaggal-Kangra, Bhuntar-Kullu, and Jubbarhatti-Shimla, offering connectivity within the state. However, the availability of daily flights from these airports is limited. Additionally, the state boasts a broad gauge railway connecting to Kalka, situated on the border of Haryana. Notably, the Kalka-Shimla railway line is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Permit Requirement: Permits are required for visiting certain areas like Lahaul and Spiti Valley. Obtain these permits online or from designated offices. Check for fees and application processes in advance.
Weather: Tourists are advised to check the weather conditions during monsoons (June to August) as the region is susceptible to landslides.
Be aware that traffic jams are common, particularly on weekends and during long weekends, on the roads leading to popular tourist destinations like Manali.
Pre-Booking: Activities like trekking and paragliding in Bir Billing require pre-booking, especially during peak seasons.
Due to unpredictable weather conditions, adventure sports like Paragliding are bound to get cancelled at the last moment, ensure to check cancellation charges and other details with notable operators.
Seasonal Closures: Due to heavy snowfall, the Rohtang pass remains closed from November to April. Check road conditions and accessibility before planning your trip.
Transport Connectivity: Limited transport options are available in remote areas. Plan your itinerary with reliable transportation and consider hiring private vehicles for convenience.
Network Connectivity: Remote regions may have limited network coverage. Carry a local SIM card from operators with the best coverage in the region.
ATMs are scarce in rural areas. Carry sufficient cash in Indian Rupees as card payments may not be widely accepted.

Top Places to Visit In Himachal Pradesh

4.8

Manali

1576 Stay options

Packages from $84

4.8

Shimla

1408 Stay options

Packages from $90

4.5

Kasol

297 Stay options

Packages from $120

4.2

Mcleodganj

694 Stay options

Packages from $48

4.3

Dharamshala

721 Stay options

Packages from $90

4.5

Spiti Valley

60 Stay options

Packages from $168

View All Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh

Top Hotel Collections

Resorts

Workation

Top Attractions In Himachal Pradesh

Solang Valley

Rohtang Pass

Mall Road, Shimla

Namgyal Monastery

The Ridge

Hadimba Devi Temple

Browse Package Collections

Holidify's opinion on Travel to Himachal Pradesh

What's Great about Travelling to Himachal Pradesh?

Well connected by road and air. Pleasant weather throughout the year. A variety of adventure sports

What's Not So Great about Travelling to Himachal Pradesh?

Poor rail connectivity. Some districts are not very developed regarding tourism-related facilities.

Who should Travel to Himachal Pradesh?

A trip to Himachal is perfect for families looking to cool off in the summer, for adventure enthusiasts and trekkers, photographers, backpackers and those interested in religious tourism. It is also suitable for people looking to experience the Himalayas up close without the strain of trekking.

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FAQs on Himachal Pradesh

Why are Himalayas called the 'backbone of Himachal'?

The majestic Himalayas stand tall in the state of Himachal which is located in the Dhauladhar range, one of the mid-Himalayan ranges. The highest peak in the state is Reo Purgyil at 6816 metres. The Himalayas are an essential aspect of the economy, geology, culture and social life of the state. All of the state's rivers originate from these mountains and make life possible by giving water to the region. The agricultural and water management practices too have developed keeping in mind the lifecycle of the mountain and the people have learned to live alongside the harsh conditions. Many festivals celebrate the mountain and river deities and have become part of the Himachali culture.

Which popular animals are found in Himachal?

Being located in the foothills of the Himalayas, the evergreen forests are well watered and are rich in flora and fauna. The rare big cat - the Snow Leopard, is found in this state and is also the state animal of Himachal. Apart from this, rare birds like the Himalayan Monal, many alpine thrushes and flycatchers and migratory birds are found only in Himachal Pradesh. The forests of Himachal are also home to some treasured medicinal plants that are now being used in pharmaceuticals.

What are the popular festivals in Himachal?

In Himachal, life is one long festival. Each month celebrates something new, and each community has something to be thankful for. Along with the rest of India, Himachal celebrates Holi, Baisakhi, Shivratri, Dussehra and Christmas but apart from this, there are many festivals peculiar to this state. The Buddhist festival of Losar is celebrated in Lahaul with dances and elaborate costumes to mark the victory of good over evil. Summer festivals and fairs are held in many cities like Shimla and Kangra Valley to commemorate the beginning of the prosperous time. There are around 20 state-level fairs that take place in Himachal that are recognised by the government. Naina Devi Fair, Lavi Fair, Chrewal, Renuka Fair, Chintpurni Fair and the Nalwari Fair are some of the fairs held in Himachal.

Read more on Festivals of Himachal

Which popular bollywood movies are shot in Himachal?

Bollywood has a fascination for the scenic mountains and fruit-filled orchards of Himachal Pradesh and has redefined the notion of romance using picturesque mountains and valleys. This has made Himachal Pradesh one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in India. Many fans of movies also come to visit particular locations where famous films like Roja, Jab We Met and Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani were shot. Highway starring Alia Bhatt and Randeep Hooda and 3 idiots were also shot in Himachal Pradesh.

How are the local people of Himachal Pradesh?

Himachal Pradesh is inhabited by semi-nomadic tribes like the Gaddis, Gujjars, Kinnars, Lahaulis and Pangwals. The people of Himachal, commonly known as Himachalis, are very warm and friendly and they love to welcome tourists. Women of Himachal are very hardworking as they work on fields and manage household too. Their honesty and down to earth nature enhance their beauty and charm. Most of the people who live in Himachal Pradesh have farmlands and tend to their crops and cattle. Hindi is the official language of the state. Apart from Hindi, people also speak Pahari languages, Punjabi, Kangri, Dogri and Kinnauri. Pahari languages are Indo-Aryan languages that have been derived from Sanskrit and Prakrit. More than 95 per cent of the people in Himachal Pradesh follow Hinduism. Other prominent religions in Himachal Pradesh include Islam, Buddhism and Sikhism. Most people living in the trans-Himalayan areas such as Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur and Kullu follow Buddhism. Himachalis celebrate fairs and festivals throughout the year with dance and music.

What is the history of Himachal Pradesh?

The history of Himachal is somewhat similar to the history of North India. This region has been inhabited by prehistoric humans and was one of the important regions during the Indus Valley Civilisation period. The Mauryas, Harsha and the Delhi Sultanate ruled this region before the arrival of the Mughals who were attracted to the beautiful landscapes and built summer homes here. The same trend was followed by the British who left the heat of the plains to go to the cool mountains to relax. After independence, Himachal Pradesh was given statehood when the Constitution came into effect in 1950.

What is the landscape of Himachal Pradesh?

The state is mainly mountainous, but the southern part is made of fertile plains. Rivers and glaciers irrigate the state, and there is extensive terrace farming of rice and fruits in Himachal. The major rivers are Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej, Beas and Yamuna. There is extensive forest cover in this state and Alpine, as well as evergreen forests, are present. There is also wide variation in temperature because of the vast difference in altitude. Shimla and Dharamshala are the summer and winter capitals of this state respectively.

What is the best time to visit Himachal Pradesh?

The best time to visit Himachal Pradesh is during the summer months, from March to June, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking, sightseeing, and adventure sports. The autumn months of September to November also offer pleasant weather and clear skies, making it another popular time to visit.

What are some must-visit tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh?

Himachal Pradesh is renowned for its scenic beauty and diverse attractions. Some must-visit destinations include Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, Dalhousie, Kullu, Kasauli, Chamba, and McLeod Ganj. Each of these destinations offers unique experiences ranging from colonial charm, serene landscapes, adventure sports, and spiritual retreats.

What adventure activities can one enjoy in Himachal Pradesh?

Himachal Pradesh is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can indulge in a variety of adventure activities such as trekking, paragliding, river rafting, skiing, mountain biking, camping, rock climbing, and jeep safaris. Popular adventure hubs include Manali, Solang Valley, Bir Billing, Kullu, and Spiti Valley.

What are the transportation options available for traveling within Himachal Pradesh?

Himachal Pradesh has a well-developed road network, and buses, taxis, and private vehicles are commonly used for traveling within the state. Additionally, narrow gauge railways connect some parts of Himachal Pradesh, notably the UNESCO World Heritage Kalka-Shimla Railway. However, for remote areas or higher altitudes, trekking or hiring local jeeps may be necessary.

Is Himachal Pradesh safe for solo travelers and families?

Himachal Pradesh is generally considered safe for travelers, including solo travelers and families. However, it's essential to exercise caution, especially in remote areas or while participating in adventure activities. It's advisable to follow standard safety precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping belongings secure. Additionally, staying informed about weather conditions and local regulations is recommended for a safe and enjoyable trip

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Himachal Pradesh Tourism

Himachal Pradesh Travel Packages

Spark of Shimla & Manali 3 Night & 4 Days

5 Nights 6 Days Shimla Manali Tour Package

Himachal Tour Package with Golden Temple: Amrit...