subject: Exotic Himachal Tourist Destinations [print this page] Tourists in Himachal can experience all major activities such as mountaineering, trekking, mountain biking, rafting, jungle tourism, rock climbing, biking, safari rides, and many more. Winter travel destinations in Himachal Pradesh are famous for its breath taking views, exciting adventure sports and thrilling experience.
Here is a list of must-see travel destinations that are fun to visit, inexpensive, adventurous, exotic and filled with luxurious low-priced hotels.
Dalhousie
Dalhousie and the Chamba Valley are lesser explored areas of Himachal Pradesh. If you're after striking, unspoiled views then Dalhousie is the place to find them. Spread over five hills, the town bares the distinct stamp of the British Raj. Its hotels are particularly reminiscent of that era.
Kalatope Wildlife Sanctuary is located a short drive away from Dalhousie. It's possible to walk through the sanctuary but a permit is necessary for a vehicle. Those who dare to venture further into the Chamba Valley will discover fascinating ancient folklore, temples, and tribes.
Dharmshala
Nestled a short distance from each other in the Kangra Valley, the towns of Dharamsala and MacLeod Ganj are home to the exiled Tibetan Government. The Dalai Lama resides in Dharamsala, and many Tibetans have followed him there. You can expect to find a strong Tibetan influence in the area, with culture being the main attraction.
People flock to Dharamsala and MacLeod Ganj to undertake Buddhist meditation and philosophy courses, Tibetan cooking classes, Tibetan language courses, and to receive alternative therapies. Volunteer work is another popular pastime. Those interested in sightseeing will find some fascinating museums, temples, gompas, and monasteries. Tsuglagkhang Complex, the official residence of the Dalai Lama, is a highlight.
Shimla
Shimla used to be the summer capital of the British Raj when they ruled India. Now it's the state capital of Himachal Pradesh. This wonderfully cool and charming town sprawls along a mountain ridge, enveloped in oak, pine and rhododendron forests. It's quite famous for its colonial style buildings and historic railway.
The old Christ Church, with its beautiful stained glass windows, is one of Shimla's most prominent landmarks. Also to be enjoyed are the mesmerizing views from Scandal Point, and the Viceregal Lodge (try to be there for the sunrise or sunset) on Observatory Hill. There are plenty of adventure sports and short hikes on offer in the vicinity as well.
Solan
Blessed with a pleasant climate all the year round, Solan is a district headquarter and has the famous temple of Shoolini Devi and from Solan the Jatoli village (15 km) and the temple of Lord Shiva and on Rajgarh road the Buddhist Monastery (18 km) may be visited. Known as the "Mushroom city of India" Solan has an old brewery (11 km) and a sprawling horticulture and forestry university at Nauni (16 km). HPTDC hotel at Barog and other pvt hotels & restaurant are available at Solan.
Kullu Manali
The most charming and beautiful Kullu valley spreads out its charm on either side of river Beas. The valley runs north to south of this river and is 80km long and about 2km at its broadest. Yet with awe inspiring glens and mossy meadows encircled by the rushing streams and meandering brooks, flung east & west, a fairly wide area is open to the tourists, the trekkers, the mountaineers, the artists and to anyone who wishes to escape the heat & dust of the plains to breathe the exhilarating air of the Himalaya and enjoy the spectacle of the variegated mountain scenery. The valley is also famous for its exquisitely woven colorful handmade shawls and Kullu caps.
Manali, with its soothing backdrop of the Himalayas, offers a blend of tranquility and adventure that makes it one of northern India's most popular destinations. You can do as little or as much as you want there. Located in the Kullu Valley, it's a magical place bordered by cool pine forest and the raging Beas River, which give it a special energy.
