Himachal Tourism

4.5 /5
Hills & Valleys | Rivers & Lakes 
$ 328 onwards View Packages

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Ideal duration: 4 - 15 days

Best Time: September - June Read More

Major Airports: Chandigarh, Shimla, Kangra, Bhuntar

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"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 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 Rohtang Pass. 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.

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, be it in a car, cab, or bus, via the railway or flight.

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Holidify's Opinion

What's Great?

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

What's Not So Great?

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

For Whom?

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. 

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.

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