A Tour to Scale the Mountains of Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh is a hilly tourist destination nestled delicately in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas. Himalayan foothills in other words, carve out the mesmerizing landscape of Himachal Pradesh. The snow-peaked mountains and valleys of this state pull people who are on the lookout for adventure. Moreover, those looking for a breath of fresh air can find refuge in this land filled with ample fresh mountain air. Some of the places that you can visit on your trip to Himachal Pradesh are provided in the lines below.

Shimla:
The British government had turned Shimla into the summer capital of India during their rule. Presently, it stands as the capital of Himachal Pradesh. This town, all cool and serene, is enveloped with a cover of colourful rhododendrons, oak and fine trees, lurking at the edge of the mountains. Shimla has become famous due to many reasons and one is the historic railway and the colonial structure of buildings it houses.

One of the most prominent marks of this town is the old 'Christ Church' that is adorned with 'stained glass' windows. You can also enjoy the view of the amazing landscape from the Observatory Hill, the Scandal Point and the Viceregal Lodge (just before dawn or dusk). Among other activities, there are plenty of options in adventure sports along with short hikes along the mountains. Either plan for a romantic getaway or take a toy train trip for extra fun around the town.

Manali:
The savouring Himalayan backdrop with a blend of adventure and tranquillity is available in the town of Manali, making it a top choice North Indian destination for travellers. You can opt for an inactive, quiet trip to this place or get into your adventure shoes- depending on your mood. Since this place is located within the Kullu Valley, it is bordered by the powerful mountainous Beas River and the pine forest, offering you more than what you could ask from nature. The "Manali Hadimba Temple Festival' is one of the popular activities of this region, giving you another reason to make yourself acquainted with this hilly region.

MacLeod Ganj and Dharamsala:
Both these places are located in the Kangra Valley, providing shelter to the Tibetan refugees and its government. Ever since the 'Dalai Lama' has taken shelter in the land of Dharamsala, people from the entire globe have followed him here. A strong influence of the Tibetan culture and tradition is prevalent in this region.

Most people come to MacLeod Ganj and Dharamsala to be a part of the Buddhist philosophy and take up meditation courses, to learn Tibetan language and enrol in Tibetan cooking classes and for receiving alternative therapies. Another popular activity in this area is volunteer work and if you are interested in getting hold of some majestic sights, visit the gompas, temples, monasteries and the museums situated in this region. The Tsuglagkhang Complex is the Dalai Lama's official residence and a famed tourist spot. It is one place you should never miss.

Spiti:
According to the popular writer Rudyard Kipling, Spiti is like a world inside a world. This place has a pretty high altitude and is cornered towards the Tibet and Ladakh border. Only after 1991 it has been opened for foreigners remaining mostly unexplored. Its climatic conditions characterized by heavy snowfall, dense alpine forests are dominating causes for its low popularity. You will need to take a long drive from the town of Manali to absorb in all of nature's beauty as you reach this amazing place.

Dalhousie:
The Chamba Valley and Dalhousie are not really explored when one comes to Himachal Pradesh. One of the most unspoilt places, Dalhousie spans over a total of five hills, bearing a distinct mark of the British rule. Especially the hotels and other monuments represent architecture of the British period. To explore the tribes, temples and folklore of the Chamba Valley, you will need to go further beyond Dalhousie.
Give yourself a vacation and take a fresh breath of air in the land of Himachal Pradesh.