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esh tour satisfies the wanderlust in you, whatever it is you may be looking for. Pick up any Himachal travel guide, chances are you will be hooked on to it within a few minutes. The state has so much to offer, no wonder it’s a top tourist attraction in North India!It has something in store for nature lovers, honeymooners, adventure lovers, history buffs and spiritual seekers. The contrast in its diversity is to be seen to be believed. You have lush valleys like Kinnaur, Kullu and Kangra& barren terrains of Lahaul&Spiti. Tales of Malana fascinate tourists as much as the Buddhist culture in Mcleodganj. Exploring Dalhousie, with its rich colonial past, is sheer delight. The famous Hill stations like Shimla, Kullu&Manali are dotted with meadows, orchards, quaint villages & rich colonial past.

Any sightseeing tour of Himachal should include its wonderful lakes. Quiet and still, they reflect the surroundings, both literally and symbolically. A few of the famous lakes are Renuka, Rewalsar, Prashar, Suraj Tal &Chandratal. The views of the Himalayan Ranges fill you with excitement, from head to toe.

THINGS TO DO:

Every year, a number of people escape to Himachal Pradesh to enjoy the cool mountain air and refreshing atmosphere, away from their bustling city lives. No matter where you go, Himachal Pradesh sightseeing will keep you enthralled with the views of majestic Himalayas, snow-capped mountains, lush green pastures and fields and swaying trees. There are several things to do in Himachal Pradesh, depending on what your likes are.

Adventure lovers will be thrilled at the chance to do trekking, hiking and mountain climbing or even skiing during the winter months. For those who are interested in Himachal sightseeing, there are plenty of wondrous spots to see – lakes, temples, monasteries and several other such places. But one of the best things to do in Himachal is to let the cool air refresh and rejuvenate you, especially in places such as Dalhousie or McLeod Ganj. Here are some of the many Himachal Pradesh sightseeing spots you should see.

PLACES TO VISIT:

KulluManali:If the nature lover in you wants to gaze at the snow reigning on the mountains and the thriving green hills with delicate flora. There’s a list of things to do- visiting the old temples with rich mythical tales, Manali bird sanctuary show a great deal of the fauna. Trekking, river crafting and camping in Kullu are also one of the best things to do. Adventure sports in Solang valley are also quite thrilling.

Kasol:On the banks of Parvati River lies a photogenic hamlet of Kasol, also referred to as the ‘Little Israel of India’The stunning landscape of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, scenic waterfalls and undisturbed trekking routes makes it a paradise for nature lovers and trekkers, while the abundance of charming cafes, budget-friendly stay options and relaxed vibe makes it an amazing spot to backpack through.

Shimla: Also called the Queen of Hills, Shimla is a gorgeous colonial hill station, where picturesque vistas will greet you at every nook. A perfect place to wander, Shimla showcases some of the best colonial-era architecture, including the Viceregal Lodge, the Town Hall, Gaiety Theatre and the Christ Church. The city’s location at the foothills of the Himalayas amidst the lush greenery and snow-covered mountains makes it a perfect place for trekking and other outdoor fun. The appeal of the Queen of Hills increases manifold when the winter sets in the entire city gets enveloped in snow, a sight to remember!

Kasauli: At an elevation of 1,900 meters lies a small colonial town of Kasauli. The town has little in terms of attractions, commerce and population. However, that’s exactly where its beauty and appeal lies – its unadulterated air, serene and peaceful vibe, and an abundance of nature is what attracts travellers. The places you can visit include the Baptish Church, Christ Church, Kasauli Brewery, Monkey Point, Nahri temple and Kasauli Club.

Dharamshala: Nestled in the upper reaches of Kangra Valley, Dharamshala enjoys one of the best climates in Himachal. Surrounded by snow-laden peaks of Dhauladhar mountains and lush pine and deodar forests, the town is brimming with cultural and architectural attractions, along with a great number of restaurants, cafes and shops catering to its extensive multicultural Indian and Tibetan communities.

Spiti valley: At an altitude of 3,810 meters, Spiti Valley is a remote village up in the cold desert mountains. Despite the fact it is fairly isolated, plenty of spiritual and adventure travellers are gradually making their way to Spiti to explore its many Buddhist monasteries scattered throughout the area, and indulge in thrilling activities, such as trekking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting and wildlife spotting.

Manali: Situated at an altitude of 2,050 meters on the River Beas valley, Manali is a picture-perfect hilly retreat that draws in hordes of tourists every year. The picturesque landscape comprising lush pine and deodar forests, snow-covered mountains, scenic meadows, waterfalls and valleys attracts adventurers and nature lovers alike. Alternatively, the ancient temples and Tibetan monasteries beckon spiritual enthusiasts.

Chitkul: In the Kinnaur district of Himachal lies a small yet charming village, Chitkul, which is perhaps the last inhabited village near the Indo-China border. Its scenic landscape encompassing lush green vegetation, snow-laden mountains and apple orchards, and tranquil vibe make it an ideal place for those looking to be at one with nature – in peace and quiet. Of particular interest is its quaint houses, complete with wooden or slate roofs, and a temple that houses a 500-year-old deity of the town.

Bir Billing: Despite its tiny size, Bir Billing is the it-place for paragliding in India. Also called the ‘Paragliding Capital of India’, Bir Billing boasts salubrious weather year-round and a spectacular landscape, which attracts thrill-seekers and backpackers from across the world. The place offers panoramic vistas of the undulating beauty of the Himalayan mountain ranges.

Dalhousie: Dalhousie is a year-round holiday destination, but looks all the more stunning in the winter months, when the entire hill town is blanketed in white sheet. Brimming with mountains, cascading waterfalls, lakes and lush pine and oak trees, adventure enthusiasts love to come to Dalhousie to partake in outdoor activities, like trekking, river rafting, canoeing, kayaking and camping. While the peaceful atmosphere and pristine nature lures nature lovers and peace seekers alike.

Khajjiar: It is a tiny slice of paradise amidst the dense deodar forests, verdant meadows and snow-capped Himalayas. Nicknamed the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’, visitors can explore its gorgeous scenery, get up-close with the exotic wildlife at the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, and take part in outdoor activities, such as forest trekking, zorbing, horse riding and paragliding at the Khajjiar Lake. An unmissable spot here is the 12th-century Khaji Nag temple. Dedicated to Lord of Serpents (Khaji Nag), the temple stands out with its beautiful architecture, which is a concoction of Hindu and Muslim styles.

Malana: Situated near Kullu Valley, Malana is a beautiful digital detox also called the Greece of India. It provides with the breath-taking views of the DeoTiba and Chanderkhani crests. There’s a list of things to do- trekking through the alpine pastures and forests with spellbinding views, visit the Chanderkhani pass and be ensnared by the mesmerizing beauty of Kheer Ganga and the panorama the snow laden Himalayas show. Soothe your soul in the hot water spring of Manikaran and the regional festivals in the village.

Solang: This valley lies between Solang Village and Beas Kund, 13kms away from Manali. It offers a panoramic view of glaciers and mountains clad in snow. Snow lovers would love to visit from the months of December to February. There’s a list of things to do- during winters it’s a skiing haven, you can also attend the ABVIM’s winter skiing festivals. During summer, Parachuting, Zorbing, horse riding and Para gliding take place of skiing.