7 Places to Stop in Shimla to Manali Road Trip

 

Manali caters to all kinds of travellers – solo adventurers, couples, thrill-seekers, and families. You can either explore Manali on its own or include it in your mountain vacation covering Shimla-Kullu-Manali. Being closest to Shimla, the state capital, it is convenient to travel from there. This Himalayan town is not just a sought-after travel destination; it is a blend of different cultures. Add in the scenic mountain views, and you have the perfect spot to relax in natural beauty. Booking Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages lets you tailor your trip based on your time, itinerary, and route preferences.

In this road trip, you will come across several picturesque destinations. Well, we will list down the top 7 places where you can soak in the tranquil ambiance as well as feed your adventurous desires. A road trip should be an experience, and with one of the most trusted Tour Operators in India, you can turn a simple ride into an exciting adventure.

1. Gobind Nagar Lake, Bilaspur

Situated amidst the Himalayan range, the lush green mountains enhance its beauty. Gobind Sagar Lake is a tourist spot, renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, including various fish species. In 1962, the lake earned recognition as a 'waterfowl refuge.' Even today, Gobind Sagar Lake is a habitat for numerous bird and animal species such as panther, wolf, chausinga, sambar, wild boar, nilgai, chinkara, sloth bear and hyena.

Fishing is a common activity in the reservoir, home to fifty species and sub-species of fish, including Tor Putitora (Mahasheer), Labeo Dero (Gid), Mystus Seenghala (Singhara), and mirror carp. The water level at Gobind Sagar Lake fluctuates, and visitors can engage in various water sports like swimming, surfing, water skiing, kayaking, rowing, canoeing, and white water river rafting. 

2. Prashar Lake, Mandi

 Prashar Lake is beautifully situated in the Kullu Valley, surrounded by the majestic Dhauladhar Ranges, a must-visit for nature lovers. The lake boasts its own floating island, and interestingly, its depth remains unknown. On the riverbanks stands the ancient pagoda-style Prashar Rishi temple, a tribute to Rishi Prashar. A compelling reason to visit is the panoramic view it offers – a 180-degree spectacle of Pir Panjal, Dhauladhar, and Kinnaur mountain ranges from the peak.

3. Great Himalayan National Park, Tirthan Valley

Nestled in the snowy ambience of the Himalayas, The Great Himalayan National Park is a stunning haven for alpine flora and fauna. With the presence of Deodar and Oak trees, the park boasts over 100 plant species, including medicinal herbs. The range spans from pine, chestnut, and spruces to junipers and alpine herbs. Even at lower altitudes, you will find alpine meadows cleared for grazing. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, such as brown bears, musk deer, thar, goral, snow leopard, bharal, monal, koalas, Tragopan, tahr, and blue sheep. The best sighting opportunity comes during September and November, this is when the animals migrate to lower grounds. 

4. Pandoh Dam, Mandi

Travelers heading to Manali find an ideal spot near the dam for capturing beautiful pictures, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and lush greenery. This destination is a favourite tourist stop in the Dharamshala to Srinagar Road Trip too. To witness the water release and its stunning sight, make sure to time your visit right. The greenish-blue waters are home to delightful water birds. Rafting is a popular activity, mainly in the lower bed of the dam.

Nearby attractions include River Beas, Hadimba Temple, Solang-Nullah, Beas Kund, Jogini waterfalls, Solang Valley, Manikaran Sahib, and Naggar Castle. Pandoh Dam and Lake allure numerous visitors with their untouched beauty, featuring calm green waters nestled amid pine forests. The surroundings provide a tranquil and serene experience for visitors. Thus, it is an ideal spot for picnics, much loved by families and kids. The scenic setting gives a sense of being on an island, where visitors sunbathe or enjoy some water fun with their loved ones.

5. Chandrakhani Pass

The Chandrakhani Pass comes with an interesting tale. In ancient times, the prime deity of Malana, God Jamlu, transported all the gods in a pot along this route. At the summit, he opened the pot, and a strong wind scattered the gods, settling them in various spots in the valley. This is why Kullu Valley is still referred to as the Valley of Gods. The Chandrakhani Pass is no newcomer to Indian trekking circles. Connected with ancient stories from Naggar (where the trek begins) and the village with unique customs, Malana (where the trek concludes), this route is one of the most popular choices in the country.

A treasure for those keen on learning more about the Kullu Valley – the villages, architecture, people, and culture serve as living history books. The trek also follows an ancient trail of shepherds, so encountering hundreds of sheep along your journey should not be surprising. The numerous shepherd huts along the way make for good rest points, and some might even offer you a cup of tea.

6. Naggar Castle, Naggar

Staying in a Medieval Castle can provide a truly unique experience, and that is precisely what Naggar Castle offers its guests. Located in Kullu, the castle was constructed in 1460 A.D. Approximately 40 years ago, in 1978, the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) took over the castle to transform it into a heritage hotel. Today, the castle offers a spectacular and comfortable stay in the valley.

To experience the charm of Naggar Castle, book your room in advance. The place has retained its original taste and architecture equipped with modern amenities. The hotel provides various room options to cater to the needs of every customer. The tariff includes a delightful breakfast. For those traveling in groups, the Royal Suite is the best choice. Couples desiring to wake up to views of snow-capped mountains can choose between the DBR Super Deluxe and DBR Luxury rooms. All rooms come with a 24-hour hot water service, and the hotel ensures there is a power backup.

7. Bhuntar

Bhuntar offers a peaceful weekend retreat for tourists seeking a relaxed time in a charming town. With some temples and historical sites, this town holds religious significance. Just 10 kilometres away lies the Kullu Valley, attracting tourists for water sports and adventure activities. The valley boasts breathtaking landscapes, making it a favourite for trekking and camping. Bhuntar enjoys a pleasant climate year-round, making it an ideal choice for newlyweds seeking a tranquil honeymoon spot with serene locations and peaceful weather.

Ideally, spending a day in Bhuntar before heading to Kullu and Manali is recommended. Trekking and camping opportunities are available at select sites, and there are small restaurants and dhabas with Indian and Mughlai cuisine on their menu. Explore the local park and have temple tours to make the most of your visit.

 

Conclusion

Exploring Himachal Pradesh from Shimla to Manali treats you with breathtaking landscapes and lively culture. Each spot where you halt has its charm. Let the beauty of this majestic North Indian state captivate your travel experience.