Tourism in Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh, one of India’s most serene states, is located in the northern partofthe country and borders Tibet and Ladakh. A picturesque traveller’s paradise famous for its mountains and valleys and greenery, Himachal Pradesh has come a long way from a once temporary retreat of the elite of the Raj. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh’s capital, was also once the summer capital of India, and as such the administrative centre of the British Empire in Asia and, consequently, the whole world. Offering spectacular experience of the snowy Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh, is very beautiful and is covered with alpine vegetation (oak and cedar). The state has emerged as a popular honeymoon destination and a prominent pilgrimage destination.

Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh has much to offer to both ordinary travellers and adventure freaks. The state’s many hill stations, with their characteristic “Malls”, are a prominent feature of Himachal Pradesh. Himachal Pradesh is dotted with some of the best colonial era structures in the country and is also home to some of India’s most prestigious schools. Himachal Pradesh contains many “hills”, elevation points which offer a superb view of the neighbouring scenery.

Needless to say, the most important tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh are:

• Shimla (the state capital, which is also one of the best hill stations in the country)
• Manali (a beautiful town located by the River Beas and surrounded by snow-capped mountains)
• Dalhousie (a colonial hill station that still carries the aura of the Raj).
  
  Some of the other places of interest include:

• Kinnaur (one of the most scenic towns in India),
• Spiti Valley and Lahaul Valley (two barren but wonderfully beautiful valleys located in the northern part of the state),
• Dharamshala (the home of the Dalai Lama),
• Rajgarh Valley (also popularly known as the Peach Valley),
• Pangi Valley (a land-locked valley that is an anthropologist’s paradise),
• Temple of Chattradi (among the holiest in Hinduism),
• Chail (an excellent scenic place for walks),
• Kangra Fort(a historically significant architectural marvel),
• Great Himalayan National Park (among the best natural reserves in the world)