Himachal pradesh is a popular tourist destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers and for those who seek peaceful and relaxing retreat. Although Himachal is seen as a major hotspot for mainstream tourism, there are several offbeat destinations where you can venture beyond popular tourist trails and uncover hidden gems.
Himachal Pradesh, offers a treasure trove of offbeat destinations. These hidden gems promise authentic cultural and traditional experiences, stunning landscapes, and a chance to escape the crowds. These offbeat destinations offer a unique opportunity to connect with the true essence of Himachal Pradesh, away from the hustle and bustle of popular tourist spots.
Why Choose Offbeat Destinations in Himachal Pradesh?Offbeat Destinations in Himachal pradesh offer a chance to explore and experience the untouched beauty and genuine local culture of the region. You'll get to explore the hidden villages, try a more challenging trekking to remote places, explore ancient monasteries and get to experience true essence of Himachal Padesh.
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| Beautiful Remote villages to explore in Himachal Pradesh |
Top Offbeat destinations in Himachal Pradesh
There are various offbeat destinations to explore in Himachal pradesh, these places are far away from the busy hill stations and give you the opportunity to connect with nature and history. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure enthusiasts, love stargazing while camping, love photography, taking a trip to explore the hidden gems will for sure satisfy your curiosity and witness the grandeur of Himalayas in all its glory.
1. Prashar Lake: A Sacred and Scenic Destination
Located in Mandi district, Prashar Lake holds immense spiritual and religious significance, also known as scenic spiritual treks in Himachal Pradesh with mesmerising views. There is a stunning three storied pagoda styled temple dedicated to Sage Prashar located on its bank.
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| Stunning architecture of Sage Parashar temple |
Things to do in Parashar lake
- Being surrounded by the snow capped majestic mountains and a serene Prashar lake creates a mesmerising scenery, photography enthusiasts can capture this stunning landscape through their lens.
- You can do hiking to the lake and appreciate the verdant alley, lush meadows and enjoy the panoramic views of Dhauladhar range.
- For spiritual experience you can visit the Prashar Temple and admire the stunning architecture of this ancient temple.
2. Tirthan Valley: The Hidden Paradise
Travellers will love to explore the beautiful Tirthan Valley-Himachal's hidden paradise. Tirthan valley, located in Kullu district, is an offbeat gem for both nature lovers and adventure seekers. This picturesque valley is covered in dense deodar forests and poised environment far away from the crowd. Tirthan Valley is perfect for those looking to explore untouched landscapes and indulge in peaceful, offbeat trekking trails.
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| Picturesque Tirthan valley |
Things to do in Tirthan valley
- You can do trekking to Jalori pass, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
- You can enjoy the pristine beauty of the valley by camping near the banks of river and do stargazing in clear nightsky.
- You can explore the Great Himalayan National Park if you are a wildlife lover. You'll get to see diverse flora and fauna and learn new things about unique ecosystem of the region.
3. Spiti Valley: The Cold Desert
Spiti valley, located in high altitude desert valley located on the Indo-Tibetan border, is famous for its placid and outstanding landscape which makes it one of the most beautiful places in Himacal Pradesh to travel. You can enjoy adventure, photography, camping, peace and quiet, or explore the incredible valley, there is lot to explore.
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| Stunning landscape of Spiti Valley |
Things to do in Spiti valley
- You can explore Chandratal lake and immerse in the tranquil and soothing environment.
- You can visit famous monasteries like The Key Monastery and Tabo Monastery.
- You can enjoy the surreal landscapes of Kaza and Langza.
- You can trek to Pin Valley National Park and see various species of animals, birds and flowers.
4. Barot Valley: A Tranquil Retreat
Barot Valley is located in Mandi district, is a lesser known destination in Himachal Pradesh surrounded by dense pine forests. Barot valley offers a peaceful getaway from hustle and bustle of cities, offers a marvellous scenery of greenery and majestic mountains.
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| Beautiful and scenic Barot Valley |
Things to do in Barot Valley
- You can enjoy a refreshing nature walk amidst apple orchards and forest trails.
- You can trek to Ghadawar and lovely Bhrigu lake.
- To enjoy scenic views and experience the natural charm, you can visit Chuhar valley.
- You can also do fishing in Uhl river if you like fishing.
5. Nako : A High Altitude Village
Nako is a high altitude village located in Spiti Valley. It is known for its scenic landscape and ancient Buddhist monasteries. This offbeat destination will give you a rich cultural and traditional experience of Tibetan way of life.
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| Placid Nako village in Spiti Valley |
Things to do in Spiti Valley
- For those looking for a unique cultural experience, you can visit the Nako monastery and visit the village's ancient temple.
- You can trek to Tabo Monastery and enjoy a light trekking and admire the natural beauty.
- You can explore the Nako lake and nearby apple orchards.
6. Chitkul : The Last Village of India
Chitkul is the last inhabited village of India located on the Indo-Tibetan border, in
Kinnaur district. Chitkul village is surrounded by wonderful mountains, has a serene environment, beautiful apple orchards,untouched atmosphere that makes it an ideal off beat destination for travelers.
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| Peaceful and beautiful Chitkul village |
Things to do in Chitkul
- You can visit the ancient Badrinath temple and indulge in spiritual experience.
- You can trek to Kinner Kailash Peak, it offers a moderate trekking which is good for adventure enthusiasts.
- You can explore the Sangla valley and Baspa river and appreciate the stunning scenic views.
7. Kheerganga : A Spiritual Adventure
Kheerganga is known for its soothing hot springs, lush meadows and scenic trekking trails, is located in Parvati Valley. Kheerganga offers a unique blend of adventure and spirituality. Especially for adventure lovers, trekkers can enjoy trekking through the thick forest cover and lovely villages offering stunning views along the way.
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| Thrilling Camping and trekking in Kheerganga |
Things to do in Kheerganga
- Camping in Kheerganga is always a wonderful experience, not only you will feel closer to nature but waking up to chirping birds and clean and soothing atmosphere is something you cannot experience anywhere else.
- For a relaxing experience, take a dip in natural hot springs. Soaking in sulphur rich water is said to have healing properties.
- Take a leisurely walk around the area, spot local flowers of the region, spot birds and enjoy the natural ambience.
- Don't forget to visit The Shiv Parvati temple in Kheerganga, it has immense religious significance in the region. You'll get to experience peace and spiritualism.
Why choose Offbeat travel in Himachal Pradesh?
Recently offbeat travel destination are gaining popularity among the travellers. The most popular destinations like Shimla and Kullu are usually overcrowded with large influx of tourists all year round, some people prefer to travel to lesser known places to not only escape the crowd but also due to their personal curiosity to explore new surroundings and enjoy travelling in solitude.
Let's explore further
- Adventure and nature: From trekking and camping to exploring hidden lakes and valleys, the offbeat places in Himachal offer a range of adventure activities that allow you to immerse yourself in nature.
- Cultural experience: Travelers get to experience the Tibetan and Buddhist culture in Chitkul, Spiti valley which has lot of ancient monasteries and they get to explore the traditional Himalayan lifestyles.
- Peaceful escapes: As I mentioned earlier, some people really like to travel in solitude, they would rather go to explore places that have very few people as it might feel stuffy with so many people at one place.
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| Peaceful escapes to Offbeat destinations in Himachal Pradesh |
Tips for Travelling to Offbeat Destinations in Himachal Pradesh
- Pack smart: First and foremost travel tip is to pack smart. Weather in mountains is known to be unpredictable, so even during summers make sure to pack warm clothes and also carry first aid box with all necessary items.
- Plan ahead: Offbeat places are less commercialized and might have lesser amenities compared to the popular destinations, so it is better to plan ahead in time about availability of transport, food , accommodation facilities. Make sure to book hotels or stays in advance.
- Travel with a local guide: It won't be fun anymore if you get lost in an offbeat place, especially in middle of a forest, so to stay safe especially if you are a first timer, travel with a local guide. Local guides will also give insights into traditions and culture of the destinations you want to explore.
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| Stunning landscape of Spiti Valley |
Conclusion
Himachal Pradesh has many offbeat destinations which offer a unique and peaceful experience, perfect for those who crave something beyond the ordinary. Whether it's the cultural richness of Spiti Valley, the serenity of Tirthan Valley, or the adventure at Kheerganga, these hidden gems of Himachal Pradesh promise an unforgettable experience. By choosing these offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh, you'll discover a side of the state that many travelers miss and embark on an adventure to the lesser-known treasures of the Himalayas.
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