8 Offbeat Places in Himachal: Explore Destinations Off the Tourist Radar

Himachal Pradesh has always been hailed as one of the favorite tourist destinations for adventurers, nature lovers, and those looking for a spiritual retreat. However, what one might not be aware of are these offbeat places in Himachal that are away from the tourist’s eyes. If you’re also tired of the commercialized places in this state and are looking for something refreshing, then it’s time to explore these unique and unexplored destinations. They’ll offer you all the perks like the famous places and more, in terms of distinctiveness. So, do add these destinations to your itinerary right away.

Best Offbeat Places in Himachal: Visit the Unspoiled Gems of this State

If you wish to see paradise on earth, then there’s no better place than Himachal Pradesh’s hidden gems. There are several locations in this state that are unspoiled by the developing world and tourism industry. You can witness nature in its raw form here with lush greenery spread across vast expanses of land and less population, which makes spending time here a serene affair.

Here are the best offbeat places to visit in Himachal Pradesh

1. Tirthan Valley
2. Chitkul
3. Kalpa
4. Kaza
5. Pangi Valley
6. Shoja
7. Gushaini
8. Kangra

1. Tirthan Valley: Stay in the Lap of Nature

Tirthan Valley tops the list of offbeat places in Himachal because of the natural beauty it encompasses. Visiting this place feels like stepping into a time warp, a place untouched by the hands of development. Located at an altitude of around 1600 m, the beauty of this place lies in the serene Tirthan River, the Great Himalayan National Park, and the wild, carefree atmosphere. The number of fun adventure activities and places to visit in Tirthan Valley are enough to keep you engaged and enamored. So, consider exploring this location on your next trip to Himachal.

Best time to visit: March to June

Attractions in Tirthan Valley: River Crossing, Serlosar Lake, Jalori Pass, Great Himalayan National Park

Adventures in Tirthan Valley: Trekking, rock climbing, fishing, camping, bird watching

How to reach:

Air – You can catch a flight to Chandigarh International Airport (approx. 236 km) or Bhuntar Airport, approx. 53 km away

Rail – Board a train to Kiratpur Station, approx. 158 km from Tirthan Valley

Road – It’s possible to plan a road trip from nearby cities

2. Chitkul: Explore the Last Populated Village

When it comes to this location in Kinnaur, you’ll be in awe of its mesmerizing beauty and history. Chitkul is the last populated village near the Indo-Tibet border, which makes it even more fascinating for travelers. This picturesque destination is nestled in the hills of Himachal Pradesh and is truly a paradise for every tourist. Due to its high altitude of approx. 11,319 ft, you might find it slightly difficult to breathe, so it’s important to acclimatize yourself first because not taking a trip to this place isn’t an option. The Baspa River gushing through this village enhances its beauty to a whole other level and the serenity you experience here is exceptional, which is why this place deserves to come to the people’s notice globally.

Best time to visit: March to May

Attractions in Chitkul: Mathi Temple, Baspa River, Charang Chitkul Pass, Rakccham Chitkul Wildlife Sanctuary

Adventures in Chitkul: Trekking, learn wood carving, walk along the river

How to reach:

Air – Take a flight to Chandigarh International Airport (approx. 360 km) or Shimla Airport, approx. 253 km

Rail – Take a train to Kalka Station, approx. 323 km

Road – You can either travel via bus, taxi, or car from nearby cities

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3. Kalpa: The Main Village in Kinnaur’s Sutlej River Valley

Kalpa is a splendid option to explore the finest Himachal Pradesh offbeat places. It’s the main village in Kinnaur, which is home to several temples and monasteries. The Kinnaur-Kailash range in the backdrop and the lush greenery surrounding it is a sight you’ll never forget. Another breathtaking element of this village is the apple orchards that are ideal for strolling around, admiring the beauty and the peaceful environment. Imagine going for a walk along such magnificent views, it’ll truly rejuvenate you from within and make you want to come back here repeatedly to escape the bustling city life.

Best time to visit: April to June or September to October

Attractions in Kalpa: Narayan Nagini Temple, Kalpa Viewpoint, Sapni Fort, Rarang Monastery

Adventures in Kalpa: Trekking

How to reach:

Air – Fly to Chandigarh International Airport (approx. 340 km) or Shimla Airport (approx. 233 km)

Rail – Take a train to Shimla Station, approx. 218 km from Kalpa

Road – You can rely on cabs or drive there on your own from nearby cities

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4. Kaza: Take a Trip to this Dreamy Destination

One of the most underrated places to visit in Spiti Valley is this town, which is surrounded by the mighty mountains and the tranquil rivers. The barren landscape with splashes of green here and there offers a truly breathtaking view and allows you to witness Mother Earth in its original form. Revel in the pious aura of this place with religious sites, such as monasteries, temples, and gompas creating an enchanting bubble. The age-old culture and traditions of Himachal are evident in this town that holds the true essence of the state. So, don’t think twice before adding this to your list of offbeat places in Himachal.

Best time to visit: May to August or October

Attractions in Kaza: Sakya Tangyud Monastery, Spiti Valley, Komic Village, Langza Buddha Statue

Adventures in Kaza: River rafting, star gazing, camping

How to reach:

Air – Take a flight to Chandigarh International Airport (approx. 458 km) or to Bhuntar Airport (approx. 242 km)

Rail – Board a train to Joginder Nagar Station, approx. 344 km from Kaza

Road – You can take a bus from Shimla or travel via cab or your own car from Manali

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5. Pangi Valley: Discover Himachal’s Secret Location

You haven’t enjoyed your trip to Himachal Pradesh if you hadn’t traveled to Pangi Valley, the gem in Himachal’s crown. This stunning place has its roots in legends and myths as it’s believed that due to the remoteness of this place, the king of Chamba used to pay funeral expenses for his soldiers going there because there was no guarantee of their return. Furthermore, this was also the place of Kala Pani, where punished criminals were sent. What makes this destination one of the best adventures in India is the road leading to it, considered among the most dangerous roads. Therefore, bikers and SUV riders are more excited about exploring this place and the journey to it.

Best time to visit: May to October

Attractions in Pangi Valley: Chaugan, Saach Pass, Hudan Bhatori Lake, Tingloti Pass

Adventures in Pangi Valley: Trekking, camping

How to reach:

Air – Book a flight to Chandigarh International Airport (approx. 513 km) or Kangra Airport (approx. 277 km)

Rail – Take a train to Pathankot Station, approx. 251 km

Road – You can travel via taxi or drive there yourself from Manali, Chamba or Jammu

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6. Shoja: A Romantic Destination for Couples

Himachal’s resplendent beauty lies in places like Shoja that are the epitome of serenity and natural wonders. It’s the perfect village for relaxing amidst the lush greenery with picturesque mountain views ahead of you. Set your sights on the magnificent Himalayas and the deodar forests covering every inch of this village, turning it into nothing less than a paradise. There are several wooden temples here as well that are quite unique, in terms of their architecture, so do visit them. The sunset tour of this location is one of the things to do in Himachal Pradesh because the allure of this place increases by manifolds as the setting sun casts an orange and red hue over everything.

Best time to visit: March to June and September to November

Attractions in Shoja: Raghupur Fort, Serloskar Lake, Jalori Pass, Chhoie Waterfall

Adventures in Shoja: Fishing, trekking

How to reach:

Air - Take a flight to Chandigarh International Airport (approx. 243 km) or Bhuntar Airport (approx. 60 km)

Rail - You can board a train to Shimla Station, approx. 150 km

Road - You can travel via bus to its nearby cities, like Kullu since there are no direct buses or you could take a cab

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7. Gushaini: An Ideal Spot for Adventurers

Here’s another village in Himachal, which is near the Tirthan River and is famous as the Trout Country because of the abundance of trout here. The landscape of this place is ideal for all sorts of adventures, including camping, hiking, and much more. Since this is one of the Himachal Pradesh offbeat tourist places, you’ll find an abundance of natural beauty here. The tall trees, varied flora, and wilderness all around makes visiting this place a surreal experience. The beauty of Gushaini is evident in its serene and oh-so perfect views that can enamor even a stone-cold person. Therefore, you can consider it as one of the best places to travel in India.

Best time to visit: April to August or September

Attractions in Gushaini: Great Himalayan National Park, Tirthan River, Chhoie Waterfall, Chehni Kothi

Adventures in Gushaini: Fishing, trekking, camping

How to reach:

Air – Book a flight to Chandigarh International Airport (approx. 236 km) or Bhuntar Airport (approx. 52 km)

Rail – Take a train to Joginder Nagar Station (approx. 121 km)

Road – You can board a bus or travel via cab or your own car

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8. Kangra: Explore this Historically Rich District

Kangra is the last offbeat place in Himachal Pradesh on our list, which is among the best ones in this state. From the breathtaking natural setting to the spiritual aura, there’s a lot to look forward to here. The mesmerizing Beas River gushing through this place enhances its overall beauty and another highlighting factor is that Kangra is known as the Land of Gods or Devbhumi. It has been mentioned in several sacred Hindu texts as well. Strolling across the tea plantations, seeking blessings at the temples, and so on make this a must-visit destination. While you’re here, you can also indulge in the things to do in Mcleodganj, which is encompassed in this district.

Best time to visit: January to June or September to December

Attractions in Kangra: Kangra Fort, Chamunda Devi Temple, Masroor Rock Cut Temple, Kareri Lake

Adventures in Kangra: Trekking, camping

How to reach:

Air – You can either fly to Chandigarh Airport (approx. 227 km) or Kangra Airport (approx. 10 km)

Rail – Take a train to Pathankot Station, approx. 87 km

Road – You can drive there, hire a cab, or board a bus to reach Kangra

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Now that you know about some of the offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh, make sure you visit them the next time you plan a trip here. You’ll be grateful for stepping beyond the famous tourist places and exploring a more unique and hidden place. The mesmerizing beauty shining through these places, unspoiled by development, are a must-visit. These travel-friendly places would offer you a distinct insight into this state, which would enrich your experience even more. So, book our Himachal Pradesh tour packages and get ready to venture into the unknown.  

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