Shimla and Kullu Most Visited Sites

Himachal Pradesh is often called as the "abode of snow" with its mighty mountains covered in thick blanket of fluffy snow, verdant valleys and lush meadows. Himachal Pradesh has a priceless treasure trove of diverse flora and fauna which attracts tourists from not only India but abroad as well. The scenic landscapes, picturesque hill stations and adventure filled destination makes Himachal Pradesh a must visit place for travellers across the globe. 

Biodiversity treasure in Himachal Pradesh

Among the many beautiful and scenic destinations in Himachal Pradesh, Shimla and Kullu have become the most visited hill station in the region right now. But what makes these destinations so popular right now? Let's dive into the reasons behind the growing appeal these beautiful hill stations have. 

Let's explore Shimla and Kullu most visited sites and find out the most vsited tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh

Why is Shimla trending in 2025 : The Allure of "Queen of Hills"

Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh, known for its scenic landscape, soothing climate, rich culture and heritage and colonial architecture has always been a special attraction among the tourists across the globe.

Why is Shimla trending right now

• Colonial charm: Shimla has retained the colonial architecture of British era as it used to be summer capital of British India. Landmarks like Viceregal Lodge, The Christ Church Shimla, and The Mall Road are major attraction among the tourists who love to admire the colonial charm of Shimla.
• Pleasant weather: Known for its pleasant weather, tourists flock the city during summers as Shimla climate offers a cool relief from scorching heat of plain areas. During winters Shimla transforms into a winter wonderland covered in snow, attracting major flux of tourists.
• Proximity to major cities: Shimla weekend getaway is easily accessible from Delhi , Chandigarh and other major cities making it one of the best short trips from Delhi.
• Toy train experience: The Kalka-Shimla toy train ride is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, considered as a one of the most picturesque train journey in India offers an awe-inspiring views of beautiful hills.

The stunning architecture of Viceregal Lodge, Shimla

Major attractions in Shimla

• The Ridge is located in the heart of Shimla which makes it a popular gathering spot for people where various shops, cafes  can be found and also offers a stunning view of beautiful mountains and trees. Various festivals like International Summer Festival, The Winter Carnival of Shimla, greet events etc are held here that tourists enjoy.
• The Jakhoo Hills is a must visit tourist destination where people can enjoy stunning views and get a unique cultural experience. Jakhoo hills are home to the Lord Hanuman temple where 108 metre tall lord Hanuman statue towers. 
• The Mall road is a bustling street lined up with shops, cafes, restaurants and bakeries where tourists take a relaxing stroll and admire the colonial charm and do shopping in cool refreshing climate of Shimla.
• Christ Church Shimla is a famous landmark in Shimla which attracts lot of tourists all around the year known for its beautiful architecture.
• Kufri is popular for adventure enthusiasts where they can enjoy lot of outdoor activities and thrilling winter sports like skiing, sledding, ice skating etc. Tourists also enjoy horse and yak riding.

Adventure and Skiing in Kufri Shimla

Activities to do in Shimla

• People enjoy doing nature walk in Mashobra and Nalderah and admire the beautiful mountains and scenic setting and serene landscape. These places are also popular for family picnics and horse riding.
• Tourists can shop for famous and traditional handicrafts at The Mall Road and wooden souvenirs in Lakkar Bazar Shimla.
• There are lot of adventure sports in Shimla that tourists can enjoy like paragliding in Shimla, river rafting and trekking in Shimla. 

Precious wooden crafts in Lakkar Bazar Shimla shops

2. What makes Kullu so popular right now: A Perfect Blend of Culture and Adventure

Kullu is the most popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, often referred to as valley of Gods, Kullu Himachal Pradesh is a mesmerising valley known for its scenic beauty, temples and thrilling adventure activities.

Why is Kullu popular right now

• Adventure activities in Shimla: Kullu is a haven for adventure enthusiasts, people can enjoy river rafting in Kullu, paragliding in Solang Valley, and trekking in Kullu is one of the most thrilling activities to enjoy in the region.
• Gateway to Manali: Once you visit Kullu, it offers as a gateway to explore nearby places like Manali, Kasol, Tirthan Valley and Malana.
• Cultural Significance: People can visit famous sites like Bijli Mahadev Temple where they can get beautiful panoramic views of valley and Raghunath temple Kullu which is dedicated to Lord Rama. The brilliant architecture of temples and intricate designs are very impressive and tourists love to explore.
• Apple orchards: Kullu is known for its apple orchards that adds to its appeal especially during the apple harvest season in Kullu.

 

 Delicious Apple harvest season in Kullu

Major attractions in Kullu

• Tirthan valley in Kullu: Tirthan valley is a lesser known hidden treasure of placid rivers and beautiful villages which gives an enchanting and relaxing experience. Tirthan valley is known for its pristine natural beauty, serene rivers and diverse flora and fauna.
• Bijli Mahadev Temple: A popular pilgrimage site, Bijli Mahadev Temple is a unique and fascinating temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It offers a unique blend of spiriuality, nature and local traditions found in the Himalayas.
• Raghunath temple Kullu: A revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Rama holds immense religious significance to local people and is considered as chief deity of Kullu. This temple has a visually striking architecture with blend of Pahari and Pyramidal architectural styles.
• Great Himalayan National Park: The Great Himalayan National park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it provides a sanctuary for world's endangered animals Snow leopards, Musk deer, Serow and Himalayan Tahr and globally threatened birds like Koklas, Cheer Pheasant and Western Tragopan. This national park is a treat for wildlife lovers.
• Parvati valley: Parvati valley is known for hot springs, trekking routes and spectacular beauty. The surrounding lofty mountains provide trekking adventure while Parvati river provide thrilling river rafting adventure.

Activities to do in Kullu

• Adventure seekers can do River rafting in Beas river Kullu, considered as one of the best river rafting places in Himachal Pradesh.
• Tourists can enjoy thrilling paragliding in Solang valley, flying over picturesque landscapes and admiring verdant valleys and  mountains give quite a thrill and joy altogether.
• Popular trekking trails for nature enthusiasts include Trekking to Chandrakhani Pass and Hampta Pass.
• Tourists looking for a relaxing and tranquil retreat can do camping in Tirthan Valley, you'll get to experience natural bliss while being surrounded by beautiful nature.
• Tourists can purchase traditional handicrafts and souvenirs from local markets and get to experience culture and tradition of Kullu.

Traditional handicrafts Shopping in Kully valley

Why are these destinations so popular right now

Shimla and Kullu have witnessed a surge in tourism as these charming tourist destinations have unique blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and thrilling adventure activities. 

Reasons for popularity

• Post Pandemic travel boom: As soon as travel restrictions were lifted, tourism boomed in Himachal Pradesh especially in Shimla and Kullu. Tourists have been flocking day and night to  visit popular places with natural setting, adventure activities and open places. Kullu travel and Shimla tourism offer perfect blend of adventure, wildlife, soothing weather and picturesque natural beauty that attracts tourists across the globe.
• Cultural and Festive vibes: Himachal has endless festival celebrations with Kullu Dussehra festival and Shimla summer festival being worldwide famous are major tourist attractions. Tourists love the rich cultural and festive vibes they get to enjoy in Himachal Pradesh.
• Easy accessibility: Both the destinations are very well connected by roadways, railways and airways making it easy for tourists to travel with Shimla airport and Kullu airport being the nearest airport travel hub. 

Awe-inspiring Kullu Dussehra Rath Yatra

Best time to visit Shimla and Kullu

• Kullu: If you want to enjoy festivals like Kullu Dussehra, you should visit around October to November, if you want to enjoy thrilling outdoor activities, visit around March to June. You'll also get to experience the scenic Kullu valley in full bloom.
• Shimla: If you want to enjoy snowfall, winter season is the best with months being from December to February and witness Shimla transforming into winter wonderland. To enjoy pleasant weather you can visit during summer time from April to June.

Travel tips for Shimla and Kullu

• With tourism being in peak, it is advisable to book your tickets in advance especially during winter and summer season.
• Always thoroughly research about the current weather before travelling especially during monsoon season as there is risk of landslide and road blockage. Travel with caution during winter season as roads could get blocked due to heavy snowfall.
• Always carry warm clothes, weather could be unpredictable.
• Explore beyond the famous spots like Chail, Shoja and Tirthan valley Kullu for a peaceful getaway.

Conclusion

Shimla and Kullu continue to be most popular spots for tourism with number of tourists increasing  manifold every year. From the captivating landscape to culture richness and thrilling adventure activities, Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Shimla and Kullu are ready to welcome you with open arms. Don't forget to comment and share with your friends if you like the post!!