Himachal is a land of beauty, warmth, and peace. It is one of the most admired tourist places in India. Tucked between the Himalayan ranges, it attracts visitors from across the world. Pristine forest, snow-capped mountains, gleaming lakes, colonial architecture, historical heritage, ancient monasteries, and there is so much more in this peaceful state.
Himachal has got something for everyone. Whether you’re searching for serenity, adventure, history, peace, or romance, it satisfies the wanderlust of every traveller. Himachal Pradesh is crawling with places to be discovered. If you want to ditch mainstream places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, here is a list of offbeat destinations in Himachal Pradesh for you to explore.
In Himachal Pradesh, the most popular tourist destination is Manali. You can visit Manali throughout the year. The best way to get there is by road to take in the views. If you live in Delhi you can easily book your bus ticket from Delhi to Manali.
Top 10 Offbeat Destinations In Himachal Pradesh
- Malana-
Malana is one of the most beautiful and historically rich villages in Himachal Pradesh which is located in Parvati Valley in the Kullu district. This tiny and incredibly beautiful village is a must-visit Offbeat Destinations In Himachal Pradesh. It has many tales behind its existence. It is popular amongst people who want to opt for less-crowded trekking excursions.
The place is known for its religious beliefs and culture, with sentiments rooted in the past; it is a place for people seeking spiritual guidance. Malana has administrative laws resembling the Greek management system, social context, purity, and culture.
- Chitkul-
A small village in the district of Kinnaur in Himachal Pradesh is one of the Offbeat Destinations In Himachal Pradesh to soak in nature. Located at 3450 meters near the Indo-Tibetan border, Chitkul is the last populated village near the border. Generally, people stay in Sangla valley and make a one-day trip to Chitkul, but if you want to escape from all the chaos, it is the place.
Snow-capped mountains, mustard fields, shaded apple orchards, luscious cherry trees, and evergreen forests may seem like the rest of Himachal, yet it is different. On your journey from Chitkul to Sangla, you will have a constant companion river Baspa.
- Tirthan Valley-
It is a gem hidden in the valleys of the Himalayas. It is a place where you can come close to nature and understand what it says. Nestled between the great Himalayan Park, Tirthan Valley is located next to the Tirthan river and is among Himachal’s precious gems in the Kullu district at 1600 meters above sea level.
The majestic snow-capped Himalayas overlooking Tirthan Valley is an ideal Offbeat Destinations In Himachal Pradesh to spend time in the lap of nature. The place offers abundant adventurous activities such as trekking, trout fishing, and more. At 21 km from Tirthan Valley, there is another gem of Himachal, Jibhi.
- Barot-
Located near the Uhl river and contributing to the benefits of locals and wildlife, Barot is an excellent place to spend time around nature and enjoy outdoor activities. Barot is not just a beautiful place but a trout spawning hub with fish ranches where you can experience fishing for the first time. It is a popular place for hunting. Home of the Himalayan goral, black bear, and pheasants, Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary is situated across the Uhl river. Barot is a beautiful offbeat destination in Himachal Pradesh with several trekking trails, making it popular amongst hikers and trekkers.
- Pabbar Valley-
A vivid blend of nature and scenic beauty- Pabbar valley has something for everyone who sets foot there. The colonial influence is still in the air. Gushing rivers, fruit orchards, and scenic hamlets of Pabbar Valley attracted British Viceroys to come here to relax, unwind, and heal.
It is among rare Offbeat Destinations In Himachal Pradesh, where you can dive into the lush green forests of oak and deodar, sparkling waterfalls, and the authentic beauty of the majestic Himalayas. Pabbar valley is a road less taken we read about when we were young. You can enjoy some activities here like rafting, paragliding, camping, hunting, etc.
- Shoja-
Sitting quietly in the lap of nature, Shoja is a tiny village nestled between the Seraj Valley. If the untouched natural beauty and wilderness are what you are looking for, this Offbeat Destinations In Himachal Pradesh will offer you. At a distance of 5km from Jalori Pass, the village has several temples made out of wood, a waterfall, Serloskar lake, and a fort. It is famous for its romantic sunset. Over the years, Shoja has become a favorite destination in Himachal Pradesh who wants to spend romantic time away from the crowd.
- Shoghi-
Ditch the mainstream Shimla to enjoy the snow this year. Shoghi, a small hill station located 13km from crowded Shimla, is a place waiting to be discovered. Where Shimla is flooded with tourists throughout the year, you can escape to Shoghi to enjoy the scenic beauty of Himachal and the wide range of flora and fauna.
This small town near Shimla is famous for magnificent old temples, fresh fruit products, and adrenaline activities. The weather is pleasant throughout the year, making it an ideal place to spend some time tucked in with nature. You can find vacation homes and accommodation facilities in a stunning places.
- Thanedar-
Home to beautiful cherry and apple orchards- Thanedar is a must-visit offbeat destination in Himachal Pradesh. It is a perfect place for nature lovers who want to soak in its purity and spend some time with themselves. Take a stroll to orchards and pluck yourself a fresh juicy apple that is supplied across India and the world. There are plenty of places to visit near Thanedar, like St. Mary’s Church, Nag Devta temple, Hathu Peak, Tani-Jubbar Lake, Hira Mahal Palace, and more. Living in deluxe orchards in Thanedar will give you the pleasure of living close to nature.
- Masrur-
If you want to see the Angkor Wat of Cambodia in India, plan a trip to Masrur. Masrur is a small village in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, famous for Sikharas, temples from the 8th century which were damaged in the earthquake of 1905. Masrur is a one-day trip from Dharamshala or Kangra. Surrounded by the Dhauladhar range of the majestic Himalayas, Masrur is a perfect offbeat destination in Himachal Pradesh where you can chat with locals, observe life, and spend some time away from chaotic cities.
- Nahan-
Peaceful and picturesque, Nahan is amongst the most romantic destination in Himachal Pradesh. Nestled in the Shivalik range of the Himalayas, it is surrounded by pristine dense forests. The place was founded in the year 1621 by Raja Karan Prakash.
With sprawling gardens, marvelous temples, and stunning backdrops for your photos, Nahan is a perfect place to run away from hectic life. Several festivals and fairs are celebrated in this secluded town throughout the year, converting it into a vibrant place.