20 Marvels of Himachal Pradesh You Must VisitÂ
Talk of a short escape from the hustle and bustle of Delhi or your much-deserved break from the blistering heat during the summer months from the Indian plains; there isn’t a better way to relax and rejuvenate than heading to Himachal Pradesh. If you are looking for a complete Himachal tour package or have set your eyes on specific destinations, you have come to the right place. At Royal Rover Holidays, we take pride in introducing you to the hidden treasures of this amazing land. As one of the best tour operators in Himachal Pradesh, we serve hundreds of travellers weekly and have built a strong reputation for our hospitality and professionalism. Â
Whether you’re seeking a thrilling escapade, a peaceful retreat, or a cultural immersion, there is something for you in Himachal Pradesh. It is impossible to describe the beauty of this land and its people in words. From the snow-clad Himalayas to the pristine green valleys and spirituality, the state has a lot to offer for every tourist. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, a nature photographer, or someone who seeks inner peace, meditating in a calm and serene environment, Himachal won’t disappoint you.
We have the best Himachal tour packages from Delhi and other places in the country. We have something for everyone, whether you want all-inclusive Himachal Tour packages from Chennai or weekend Himachal tour packages from Chandigarh. Whether you are looking for the Shimla Manali tour package for family travellers or the best Himachal tour packages for adventure seekers, we are here to amaze you with the sights, sounds, and culture of this land, blessed by mother nature.
If you have started preparing to be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage, and warm hospitality with our full Himachal Pradesh tour packages, zeroing in on the must-visit destinations can be overwhelming. While there are hundreds of places to see and things to do on your Himachal tour, we have curated a list of 20 must-visit places that we cover in our Himachal travel packages. While you can visit plenty of places around these towns and villages, we focus on what you shouldn’t miss out on.Â
So here is our list of 20 marvels of Himachal Pradesh you must visit. Â
1. Mall Road, Shimla
You can’t visit Shimla and not spend time at Mall Road. It is the most bustling road in this beautiful town, thronged by tourists throughout the day. From welcoming the New Year to shopping during a honeymoon, it is the perfect place to end the day. Shimla’s main street boasts the best shops, cafes, and restaurants in Himachal Pradesh. Walk around the road in the evening and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. There are several handicraft stores along this road where you can pick souvenirs for your friends and Family.
2. The Ridge, Shimla
We may be biased about The Ridge if you ask us about the best part of our Himachal Pradesh package. Located close to Mall Road, this vast open space is known as Shimla’s cultural hub. From here, you can catch stunning views of the surrounding mountains. This place also hosts musical events and other entertainment shows, which will add to your experience. If you happen to be here during a snowfall, you will have a heavenly experience.
3. Jakhoo Temple, Shimla
Situated at top of the Jakhoo Hill, the highest peak in Shimla, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Legend has it that Hanuman stopped here during his search for Sanjivni. Hence, this temple is of great religious significance. The annual Dussehra festival attracts people from Shimla and other parts of the country. The 108-foot statue of Lord Hanuman is quite a sight to see. The top of the peak offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Take a short trek to the temple, and you’ll enjoy and be mesmerised by the beauty of this place.
4. Christ Church, Shimla
As the summer capital during the British Raj, Shimla has its share of architectural marvels of the colonial era, and Christ Church is among them. The second oldest church in North India, it is quite a spectacle. Located on The Ridge, this church, built in neo-Gothic style, will impress you with its beautiful stained-glass windows and a peaceful ambience. The structure was completed in 1857 and has been one of the most iconic structures in the city. The clock tower in this church has stood tall for more than 170 years and is still useful for the locals and tourists. Â
5. Rashtrapati Niwas, Shimla
Formerly known as Viceregal Lodge, the Rashtrapati Niwas served as the power centre of the British Raj during the summer months. The building sits atop Observatory Hill, one of the most beautiful hills in Shimla. It was completed in 1888 and spread around a 331-acre estate. The magnificent building was designed by British architect Henry Irwin, who borrowed his inspiration from the castles of the Scottish Highlands. The building currently houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Study but remains one of the most visited tourist spots and a must on all Himachal holiday packages.
6. Annandale Army Heritage Museum, Shimla
We all take pride in our armed forces, and the Army Heritage Museum, located close to Annandale, lets you catch a glimpse of the modern Indian Army from the time of the British Raj. It also documents the 5000-year history of epic wars mentioned in our history. The museum has several galleries that walk you through some of the finest leaders of the Indian Army and the several wars and campaigns it has fought. The Pakistani flags, weapons, and documents captured during the 1971 Indo-Pak war are a major attraction at this museum.
7. Shimla State Museum, Shimla
Your visit to Shimla would remain incomplete without visiting the Shimla State Museum. Located atop Mount Pleasant, this museum has preserved the rich culture of Himachal Pradesh. The colonial-style architecture of the building has close to 10000 objects on display and is one of the best state museums in India. It has a rich collection of art, artefacts, arms, and handicrafts that offers the perfect glimpse into the life of the people in Himachal Pradesh in the gone-by era.
8. Kalka-Shimla Railway, Shimla
If you are a rain enthusiast, this UNESCO World Heritage site must be on your bucket list. This narrow-gauge railway opened in 1903 and has been ranked as one of the most picturesque mountain railways in the world. Starting in the foothills at Kalka, the 97-km journey offers you a memorable experience of transversing through the hills, tunnels, and bridges. As you climb up to Shimla, you will be left spellbound by the lush green valleys beneath. To experience this engineering marvel, you must book your trip in advance as there is a huge rush for tickets. Â
9. Chadwick Falls, Shimla
Beyond the colonial architecture, Shimla has several natural wonders you must visit, and Chadwick Falls is one of them. Located at an altitude of 1586 meters, this place is a wonderland for anyone who wishes to capture the serene beauty of Himachal through a camera lens. The noise of the water ravishing through the woods will help you get close to nature. The place is surrounded by thick forests with tall pine and deodar trees that are amazing to you with their beauty. During monsoon season, this waterfall, in its full might and surrounding greenery, is a sight to see and offers a captivating experience. Â
10. Rohtang Pass, Manali
If you choose the Manali holiday package, visiting the famous Rohtang Pass must be on your bucket list. This high-mountain pass east of the Pir Panjal Range is 51 kilometres from Malali. It is located 3,978 metres above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-covered peaks and glaciers. If the adrenaline rush drives you and you wish to engage in adventure activities, you can go skiing and snowboarding. Rohtang Pass is the gateway to the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys. Stop along the drive from Manali, and you will have plenty to share with your followers on Instagram reels!Â
11. Hadimba Devi Temple, Manali
One of the most sought-after places to visit in our Shimla Manali tour package is the Hadimba Devi Temple. This ancient cave temple was built in 1553 by Maharaja Bahadur Singh and dedicated to Hidimba Devi, the wife of Bhim, whose name is mentioned in the epic Mahabharata. It comes to life during Navratri. This temple has unique architecture that draws its inspiration from both Indian and Tibetan constriction styles. The dense cedar forests surrounding the temple offer a serene and mystical atmosphere. Don’t forget to visit the shrine dedicated to Hadimba Devi’s son, Ghatotkacha, whose bravery is mentioned in the Kurukshetra War. Â
12. Vashisht Hot Springs, Manali
Take a 6-kilometre drive to the village of Vashisht, and you will be amazed at the sight of a natural hot spring. The place is located on the banks of the Rover Beas. The hot water results from the volcanic activity beneath, making it rich in minerals like sulphur. Locals and tourists from different corners of the country come to dip in these hot springs, whose water is believed to have medicinal properties and is known for curing skin diseases. A temple built to honour Sage Vashisht is nearby. The village offers charming views and a tranquil ambience.
13. Chandratal Lake, Spiti Valley
The Chandratal or the Moon Lake is a must-see on your Spiti Valley tour packages from Delhi. The crescent-shaped lake sits at a height of 4,300 metres. The lake is surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks, which are at their pristine best during winter months. The meadows that bloom with wildflowers in the summer add an aura to the valley. If you visit it on a bright sunny day, the lake’s clear blue waters reflect the surrounding landscape, creating a majestic sight. If you wish to camp or trek during your Himachal tour, Chandratal Lake offers you the solitude and natural splendour you seek.
14. Key Monastery, Spiti Valley
The Key Monastery, or the Key Gompa, is among the largest monasteries in Himachal Pradesh. It is dedicated to Lochen Tulku, whom Buddhists consider the 24th reincarnation of Lotsawa Rinchen Zangpo. As a learning site for Tibetan Buddhist philosophy, this place has trained monks since the 11th century. Different kingdoms attacked this place several times over centuries, but it has survived. If you are interested in Tibetan Buddhism, there is a remarkable collection of ancient scrolls, manuscripts, and paintings awaiting you at this place. The monastery’s calm setting offers the perfect spiritual ambiance to find inner peace. Â
15. Tabo Monastery, Spiti Valley
People fondly call it the Ajanta of the Himalayas. Founded in 996 AD, the Tabo Monastery is among the oldest monasteries in Himachal. Located in the Tabo village, the monastery complex is known for being the oldest continuously operating Buddhist enclave in India. It has been a centre of learning and pilgrimage for over a thousand years and is an ASI-protected site. It has preserved ancient murals and frescoes depicting the rich heritage of Tibetan Buddhism. Several stupas around the complex give you a glimpse of the rich history of Tibetan Buddhism in India.
16. Manikaran Gurudwara, Kasol
If you choose our Kasol tour package from Delhi, we will take you to the Manikaran Gurudwara. The Sikh shrine is located in the Parvati Valley and is of immense religious significance to the Sikhs and the Hindus. The water from the natural hot springs near Gurudwara is known for having healing properties. Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, visited this place in 1574, and hence, this is a major shrine for Sikhs from around the world. Don’t miss out on the prasad at the langar, as the food and the tranquil atmosphere will give you a heavenly feeling. Â
17. Waichin Valley, Kasol
People fondly call it the Magic Valley, and it truly leaves you spellbound with its magical beauty. It has everything you would expect to find in Himachal, from snow-peaked mountains surrounding the place to pristine waterfalls as you trek along the thick vegetation of coniferous trees. Sparsely populated due to the extreme climatic conditions, it is the perfect escape for any tourist from the hustle and bustle of big cities. Â
18. Chalal Village, Kasol
If you plan to camp during your tour to Kasol, Chalal Village will be the perfect choice. This scenic hamlet tucked away amidst lush greenery is a short trek from Kasol. The small village overlooks the Parvati River and will amaze you with its calmness and stunning natural beauty. It has easy hiking trails and spots for camping. This village has escaped the mad race to concretization and has retained the old-world rustic charm. Camping here during the night is special as the star-studded sky and the high mountains surrounding the village make your trip memorable.Â
19. Naggar Castle, Kullu
The Naggar Castle is one of the highlights of our Kullu Manali tour package. Built by Raja Sidh Singh in 1460, this castle has stood the test of time. It served as the seat of power for the local kings for centuries and has retained its splendour. Presently run as a heritage hotel by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation, its architecture perfectly combines European and Himalayan construction styles with intricate stone and woodwork. There are several holy shrines around this castle that the locals revere.Â
20. Great Himalayan National Park, Kullu
The Great Himalayan National Park, which is spread over 1171 square kilometres, is one of the unique national parks in the county, with elevations inside the park ranging between 1500 and 6000 metres. It serves as the natural habitat for more than 375 species of animals, birds, and reptiles. It is one of the biggest biodiversity regions, including the Indomalayan realm in the north and the Palearctic realm in the south. GHNP is one of the few national parks in the country that allows people to trek, and if you are a nature lover, you will fall in love with this place.Â
That brings us to the end of this list. Whether you are booking Himachal tour packages from Mumbai, Delhi, or elsewhere in the country, these are the 20 places that must be on your bucket list. While these may be some of the most visited places in the state, this list is not all-inclusive. There are dozens of other places that you can visit and experience as part of our Himachal trip package. Let us be your tour operator on your dream vacation and guide you in exploring some of the lesser-known gems of Himachal Pradesh.
At Royal Rover Holidays, we believe in offering you a tailored experience of Himachal Pradesh. Whether you are looking for Himachal tour packages by flight or have a tight budget, we have the best holiday packages. If you are looking for a romantic escapade, choose our Himachal tour packages for couples, and you will enjoy your cosy time together. Similarly, we have Himachal Tour Packages for seniors planning a spiritual tour or adventure seekers who wish to engage in activities.
Call us now at +91-9805252033 or email enquiry@royalroverholiday.com and let Royal Rover Holidays offer you the perfect Himachal Pradesh tour package. Your holiday deserves to be special. Let us give it a “royal” touch.