Visit the Top 10 Offbeat Hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh
Best Hill Stations in Himachal
Pradesh
Discover the enchanting hill stations of Himachal Pradesh like Malana, Tirthan Valley, and Chitkul. Malana captivates with its unique culture, Tirthan Valley offers serenity by the river, and Chitkul charms with its scenic beauty. Each hill station unveils a distinct experience, promising a delightful escape into Himachal's natural wonders and cultural richness.
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1. Malana
Malana is a picturesque village, steeped in numerous tales that have woven its existence through the ages. Nestled in the Parvati Valley, this charming place is inhabited by a handful of families who have called it home for generations.
What adds to this offbeat locale is the belief that the direct descendants of the great Alexander reside here as a community. Furthermore, Malana boasts a unique set of administrative laws and practices. The town closely resembles the Greek governance system while also preserving its own distinct culture, social norms, and notions of purity.
2. Tirthan Valley
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3. Chitkul
Nestled in the Kinnaur district, Chitkul is a quaint village standing as the final settlement near the Indo-Tibet border, perched at an elevation of 3450 meters. Interestingly, it marks the last point in India where one can travel without a visa. Travellers typically stay in Sangla and embark on a day trip to Chitkul. En route from Sangla, the ever-present companion is the flowing river Baspa. The landscape is adorned with snow-clad hills, apple orchards, mustard fields, and diverse flora, reflecting the typical beauty of the state. Renowned for its high-quality potatoes and peas, the valley experiences harsh, cold, and unpredictable weather.
Key attractions: Charang Chitkul Pass, Lalan Ti, Mathi Temple
4. Pabbar Valley
The Pabbar Valley is a captivating blend of picturesque landscapes and natural wonders. Beyond its fruitful orchards, the charming villages and swift streams were alluring enough to attract British Viceroys, who often camped and sought rejuvenation here. A journey through the Pabbar Valley unfolds in dreamlike settings, guiding you through serene villages that retain their quiet and unspoiled charm, weaving through forests adorned with cedar, oak, and birch, and culminating in snow-draped valleys. The valley offers a diverse range of activities, including camping, trekking, hunting, and various outdoor pursuits like rafting and paragliding.
Key attractions:
Saru Trek, Chandarnahan Trek
5. Thanedar
Home to beautiful apple and cherry orchards, Thanedar unfolds as a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking moments of tranquillity. The joy of plucking fresh fruits from the abundant trees is a delightful experience. Overlooking these deluxe orchards are several resorts, providing an opportunity to dwell intimately with nature. Nearby attractions include the Nag Devta Temple, nestled on the shores of Tani-Jubbar Lake, St. Mary’s Church, counted among the oldest churches in India, and Hathu Peak with its captivating vistas of the snow-clad Himalayan peaks.
6. Shoja
Situated in the serene Valley of the Seraj, Shoja is renowned for its Serloskar Lake, particularly celebrated for its picturesque sunset views. Visitors can opt for a leisurely stroll to immerse themselves in the refreshing landscapes. A brief walk leads to the falls, where one can enjoy a soothing bath or simply unwind in the sun with a refreshing beverage.
Key attractions: Chehni Kothi, Raghupur Fort
7. Barot
Barot extends beyond its scenic beauty with an array of outdoor activities. The Uhl River, flowing through this area, not only serves the needs of people and wildlife but also attracts travellers as a trout spawning centre with several fish farms. The Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary, situated on the other side of the Uhl River, is a habitat for the Himalayan goral (a member of the goat family), various pheasants, and black bears from the Himalayas. A road from the Sanctuary to Kullu passes through evergreen forests adorned with deodar trees.
Key attractions: Nargu
Wildlife Sanctuary, Uhl River, Barot Temple
8. Gushaini
Nestled near the Tirthan River in the Kullu district,
Gushaini earns the moniker "Trout Country" due to its plentiful trout
population. It is an ideal destination for those seeking an exceptional outdoor
camping experience in mobile dome tents along the banks of the peaceful Tirthan
River. A mere 20 kilometres from Gushaini lies the Great Himalayan National Park,
home to around 30 animal species and 300 bird species. Exploring the park by
hiking through the natural cedar groves is highly recommended.
9. Kalpa
Nestled in the Sutlej River Valley, this place is renowned
for its awe-inspiring temples and monasteries that leave an indelible mark on
visitors. With the Sutlej River flowing alongside and the majestic
Kinnaur-Kailash range forming a captivating backdrop, this village invites you
to immerse yourself in its scenic surroundings.
10. Fagu
Fagu is a perfect destination for those seeking a unique getaway. Situated at an altitude of 2500 meters, the district takes on a picturesque charm, especially during snowfall. Furthermore, the proximity of the clouds gives this destination a heavenly appearance. If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle, Fagu offers a tranquil retreat.
Key attractions: Bhantia Devta Temple, The Retreat Building
Conclusion
Beyond the well-known tourist spots like Shimla, Manali, and
Dharamshala, there are hidden gems waiting to be explored. These offbeat
destinations provide a welcome break from the tourist crowds and offer a chance
to connect with the raw beauty of nature. Whether you are seeking adventure in
the untamed wilderness, spiritual tranquillity in ancient temples, or just a
peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty, these offbeat places weave
memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.
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