HimTrails

Manali is the destination that introduced most of India to the Himalayas — and somehow it still delivers. Set on the banks of the Beas at around 2,050 m, it pairs snow-dusted peaks and pine forests with buzzing cafés, ancient temples and a serious menu of adventure. Whether you're chasing your first snowfall, a honeymoon, or an adrenaline fix, here's how to plan a Manali trip that actually lives up to the photos. Things to do in Manali Old Manali — the laid-back, café-lined village across the river, perfect for slow mornings and people-watching. Hadimba Devi Temple — a striking 16th-century wooden temple set in a cedar forest, and Manali's most iconic landmark. Solang Valley — the adventure hub: paragliding, zorbing and ropeway rides in summer, skiing and snow play in winter. Rohtang Pass — the dramatic 3,980 m gateway to Lahaul, open roughly May to October (a permit is required and daily vehicle numbers are capped). Atal Tunnel & Sissu — the engineering marvel tha...

While crowds pile into Manali and Shimla, the Chamba region in Himachal's northwest stays quietly spectacular. Chamba town is an ancient hill kingdom with thousand-year-old temples; Dalhousie is a charming Raj-era town spread over five hills; and Khajjiar is a green meadow nicknamed "Mini Switzerland." Together they make a heritage-meets-nature circuit that's ideal for families. Top places to visit Khajjiar — the "Mini Switzerland of India," a meadow with a central lake, ringed by deodars. Dalhousie — colonial churches, Mall Road and the Gandhi/Subhash Chowk strolls. Chamba town — the 10th-century Lakshmi Narayan temples and Bhuri Singh Museum. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary — easy forest trails. Panchpula & Satdhara springs near Dalhousie. Best time to visit March–June is green and ideal for Khajjiar — peak season. September–November is clear and uncrowded. December–February brings snow to Dalhousie and Khajjiar for a magical w...

Just 60 km beyond Shimla sits Narkanda — a quiet apple-country town at ~2,700 m that doubles as one of Himachal's oldest skiing spots. With the spectacular Hatu Peak above and orchard valleys below, it offers the snow and views of the Shimla belt without the crowds, and usually for less money. Here's how to plan a Narkanda trip. Things to do in Narkanda Skiing & snow play on Narkanda's slopes in peak winter — beginner-friendly. Hatu Peak (~3,400 m) — a drive/short trek to a ridge-top temple with 360° views. Tanni Jubbar Lake — a small, serene high lake. Stokes Farm, Thanedar — where commercial apple farming in India began. Best time to visit Narkanda December–February is the snow-and-ski season. March–June is pleasant with blooming orchards, and September–November brings the apple harvest, crisp air and golden views. 2–3 day itinerary Day 1: Arrive via Shimla, settle, sunset forest walk. Day 2: Hatu Peak + Tanni Jubbar; skiing/snow p...

Tirthan Valley is Himachal's quiet, soulful corner — named after the clear Tirthan River fed by glaciers inside the UNESCO-listed Great Himalayan National Park. There's no big town, no nightlife, just trout fishing, gentle forest treks and the rare luxury of doing nothing by a mountain river. It's perfect for couples and anyone craving a proper reset. Things to do in Tirthan Valley Trout fishing — the Tirthan is one of India's best trout rivers (permit and guide arranged locally). Great Himalayan National Park — guided treks into pristine, protected wilderness. Chhoie Waterfall — a short forest trek. Jalori Pass & Serolsar Lake — shared with neighbouring Jibhi. Village walks through Gushaini, Nagini and Banjar. Best time to visit March–June and September–November are ideal for treks and river time. The monsoon swells the river and limits trekking; winter is cold, quiet and cosy. 3-day itinerary Day 1: Arrive, riverside cottage, ev...

Bir Billing is famous as one of the best paragliding destinations in the world — but it's also a wonderfully relaxed Himachali village with cafés, monasteries and forest camping. Whether you're here to fly or just to slow down, this guide covers the essentials, including what the famous tandem flight actually costs. Paragliding in Bir Billing: cost, season & safety You take off from Billing (~2,400 m) and land at Bir below, with 15–30 minutes in the air. A standard tandem flight (no experience needed — you fly with a certified pilot) typically costs around ₹2,500–3,500, with higher rates for longer flights and GoPro video. Always confirm the pilot is certified and book through a verified operator. The best flying season is mid-October to mid-November (stable, clear air) and March–June . Flying is usually suspended in the monsoon. Tandem paragliding here is well-established and considered very safe with a certified pilot and good weather discipline. Things to do bey...

Dharamshala is really two destinations stacked on a mountain: the lower town with its famous cricket stadium, and McLeodganj above it — "Little Lhasa," home to the Dalai Lama and a vibrant Tibetan community. Add the dramatic Dhauladhar peaks and the classic Triund trek, and you get one of Himachal's most rewarding short trips. Here's your plan. Things to do in Dharamshala & McLeodganj Tsuglagkhang Complex — the Dalai Lama's temple and the Tibet Museum. Triund trek — a 9 km round-trip ridge trek with epic Dhauladhar views. Bhagsunag Waterfall and the Shiva Café walk. HPCA Stadium — one of the world's most scenic cricket grounds. Norbulingka Institute and Namgyal Monastery . Dharamkot & Naddi — quiet upper villages with sunset views. Best time to visit March–June and September–November are ideal for sightseeing and Triund. Winters bring snow to the peaks. Note that July–August is one of the wettest spells in India here, s...