Himachal Pradesh down in north India’s Himalayan region is shrouded with snow-capped mountains. In winters, it is one of the best places to witness snowfall in India. During monsoon, the hills are wrapped in the lush greenery. While in the summers, the temperature remains salubrious. But the tourist footfall in Himachal Pradesh since the last few years has made it a mainstream destination. However, there are still some best offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh to explore. For instance, Jibhi, Malana, Daran Village are some of the unexplored tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh.
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23 Best Offbeat Destinations to Visit in Himachal Pradesh
- Tirthan Valley
- Pabbar Valley
- Chindi
- Karsog Valley
- Daranghati
- Daran Village
- Malana
- Shoja
- Jibhi
- Barot
- Kalpa
- Chitkul
- Pangi Valley
- Fagu
- Sainj Valley
- Lahaul
- Narkanda
- Janjehli
- Church Valley
- Gushaini
- Churdhar
- Kinnaur
- Charang Valley
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1. Tirthan Valley
Hotels to stay: Nature’s Lap Resort, Whitestone Cottages, Green Alpine, Leena’s Place
Nearby Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport (70 km)
Nearby Railway Station: Kiratpur (167.8 km)
Ideal Duration: 3 – 5 days
Tirthan Valley is one of the best offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh. It is located in the Kullu District. To get to the valley, you must climb or ascend 1600 metres above sea level. Surrounded by lush green landscapes, pristine rivers, and charming villages, it’s no less than a paradise! And yes, the Tirthan River flowing through this valley is a sight.
Tirthan Valley is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Some of the activities to try when here include trekking at Great Himalayan National Park, rock climbing, camping, birdwatching, picnicking beside Serolsar Lake, and exploring the Jalori Pass.
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2. Pabbar Valley
Hotels to stay: Taj Theog Resort & Spa, Sterling Kufri, Radisson Hotel Kufri, Welcomhotel By ITC Hotels Shimla
Nearby Airport: Shimla (100 km)
Nearby Railway Station: Kalka Railhead (170 km from Rohru)
Ideal Duration: 5 days
If you are planning to lose your soul in the untouched areas of Himachal Pradesh, do include Pabbar Valley in your itinerary/. Pabbar Valley is an enchanting valley formed by the Pabbar River. It’s located only 100 kilometers away from Shimla. Something that makes it worth gaping is its landscape comprising majestic mountains, lush green meadows, apple orchards, and deodar forests.
Pabbar Valley is an untouched gem. But it’s worth exploring because of the Chanshal Pass. Chanshal is a high-altitude mountain pass that provides breathtaking panoramic views and a gateway to adventure! Some exciting things to do in Pabbar Valley include sightseeing in snow-capped mountains (Kufri, Fagu), fishing, trekking, and camping.
3. Chindi
Hotels to stay: Hotel Gopal, Oms Hotels & Restaurant, Club Mojo Resort
Nearby Airport: Shimla at Jubbar-Hatti (110 km)
Nearby Railway Station: Shimla (87 km)
Ideal Duration: 5 to 6 days
Chindi is one of the most alluring places to explore in Shimla. It’s perched on the hilltop, and hence, you have to come here if you are a nature lover. Apple orchards, thick forests, hypnotizing villages, etc., make the valley worth visiting. Tourists who love serenity come here and enjoy glimpses of the Karsog Valley below Chindi.
Being one of the best offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh, Chindi offers its visitors hiking, exploring the lush surroundings, and immersing themselves in the local culture. When here, do visit the Mamleshwar Mahadev Temple. Also, capture the views from Kunhoo Dhar – the vantage point!
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4. Karsog Valley
Hotels to stay: OMS Hotel And Restaurant, Hotel Mamleshwar
Nearby Airport: Shimla Airport (112 km)
Nearby Railway Station: Kalka (160 km)
Ideal Duration: 2 days
So, you have always wanted to explore the untouched emerald green farm terraces and the towering peaks of the Himalayas? Why not head onto the Karsog Valley? This valley is one of the offbeat places to visit in Himachal, known for its pristine natural beauty and unspoiled landscapes. Coming here with family or friends means immersing deep into the tranquillity of the surroundings!
Apple picking, temple hopping, village walks, and trekking are some of the must-do activities in Karsog Valley. In addition to these, don’t forget to take scenic hikes. During hiking, witness the traditional way of life in the quaint villages. Lastly, visit the Mamleshwar Mahadev Temple and offer prayers.
5. Daranghati
Hotels to stay: Cedar Hill Lodge, Hotel Crystal Palace, Welcom Heritage The Chalets
Nearby Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport (23 km)
Nearby Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 days
Daranghati boasts of its rich wildlife resources and pristine natural beauty. The flora and fauna here are worth gaping at! This tranquil destination offers a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts. If you are a wildlife lover, you have to come here. Black bears, Musk Deer, Sambar, Blue Sheep, Flying foxes, Palm civets, Goral, leopards, etc., can be spotted in Daranghati.
Not just wildlife exploration, Daranghati is bounded by coniferous trees such as blue pine, silver fir, and spruce. Adventure lovers can indulge in thrilling activities like trekking to Daranghati from Sarahan or along the old Silk route.
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6. Daran Village
Nearby Railway Station: Tongyang Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 2 days
Daran Village is one of the best offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh. The village has just 368 people residing in total. Spread across 96.58 hectares, this quaint village is an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. For tourists who have always wanted to pamper themselves in the tranquil retreat, this village will be an ideal destination.
The village allows visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture. And yes, the natural beauty of the region is admirable. You can spend some time in the village to learn about the authentic way of life in Himachal Pradesh.
7. Malana
Hotels to stay: AYOYA Malana – Shiv Valley Café, Nirvana Café and Homestay, Mountain View Homestay
Nearby Airport: Kullu Airport (30.1 km)
Nearby Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station (139.57 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 days
The list of top offbeat tourist places in Himachal Pradesh goes complete with highlighting Malana. Isolated from the hustle and bustle of the modern world, Malana offers you serenity and tranquility! Since the village is near Parvati Valley, you will enjoy natural beauty to the fullest. And yes, the village is also renowned for its unique customs and traditions.
Malana Village lets you witness the cultivation of the world-famous “Malana Cream.” Backpackers from all over India come here to see what this cultivation is like! Malana Cream is a locally produced strain of hashish. Some things to do here include sightseeing the scenic landscapes, trekking, and temple hopping.
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8. Shoja
Hotels to stay: Sojha Holiday Inn, Satyam Home Stay, Offthetrailcabins
Nearby Airport: Kullu Manali Airport (80 km)
Nearby Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station (164 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 days
Located in the middle of the wilderness and panorama, Shoja Village is a hidden gem in Himachal Pradesh. Only a few tourists know about this village. So, it remains untouched! Come here to feel the virgin natural beauty from close. The dense forests, lush green landscapes, lakes, and waterfalls make it the best place to relax and unwind.
Shoja Village boasts breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. Here, you will get ample opportunities for trekking. Exploring the forts and indulging in nature walks are also worth trying. Lastly, don’t forget to experience the tranquillity of the verdant deodar forests!
9. Jibhi
Hotels to stay: The Hosteller, Shoja, Pine Valley Cottage and Café, Rock Top Inn Homestay
Nearby Airport: Bhuntar Airport/Kullu-Manali Airport (60 km)
Nearby Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station (55 km)
Ideal Duration: 3 days
Jibhi is one of the best offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh, dotted with lush green forests and enchanting mountains. Also known as the mesmerizing “Hamlet,” this picturesque destination offers a tranquil escape from the chaos of city life! Every month, trekkers, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat hop here – that’s the beauty and charm of the place.
Some of the exciting things to do in Jibhi include the following. Staying in a homestay, relaxing beside Serolsar Lake, trekking the dense pine forests, and praying in the pristine temples. You will be spellbound at the sight of the Victorian-style cottage. Don’t you want to get transferred to the Victorian Period?
10. Barot
Hotels to stay: Dhauladhar Woodhouse, Wild High Cottages, Malhotra Home Stay Barot Valley
Nearby Airport: Bhuntar Airport in Kullu (4642 km)
Nearby Railway Station: Jogindernagar Railways Station (36 km)
Ideal Duration: 3 days
Only a tourist can leave Barot with admiring its mesmerizing beauty! Barot is a serene and hidden village located in the serene valleys of Mandi District. Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary is a major attraction here. It offers numerous opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to witness the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Not forgetting to mention, the park is home to black bears, ghoral, and monal.
Adventure lovers will love Barot a lot. Why? The village is perfect for trekking, camping, forest watching, strolling through woods, and trout fishing. The area surrounding the village is pollution-free. For example, the serene Uhl River. This river makes it an excellent place to unwind and connect with nature!
11. Kalpa
Hotels to stay: The Grand Shamba–La, Hotel Kalpa, The Monk-Kalpa
Nearby Airport: Shimla Airport (275 km)
Nearby Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station (244 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 – 2 days
Kalpa is the most beautiful village in Himachal Pradesh. It serves as the primary village of the Kinnaur district. Coming here will offer you a feeling of being in a destination right from a postcard! All thanks to its stunning landscapes and captivating views of the snow-clad Himalayan peaks. Travelers here enjoy a serene and picturesque escape in the lap of nature.
Being one of the offbeat locations in Himachal, Kalpa is best for early morning walks. Sutlej River flows nearby, adding to the scenic charm of the village. When here, you need to visit the beautiful temples and monasteries. Also, go and see apple orchards and the majestic Kinnaur-Kailash range.
12. Chitkul
Hotels to stay: Panchali Resort, Samaa Resorts, Baspa River Camp, Panchali Resorts
Nearby Airport: Bhuntar Airport (224 km)
Nearby Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station (110 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 day
Perched at 3450 meters, Chitkul is a picturesque village in Himachal Pradesh. It’s often considered the last inhabited village on the Indo-Tibetan border. Nature lovers and adventure seekers should take advantage of covering this paradise when traveling to Shimla. The exquisite beauty of the landscape and pristine environment is something to gape at!
Chitkul offers visitors opportunities for trekking. Apart from trekking, you can soak yourself in majestic views of the snow-capped Himalayas and take strolls by the Baspa River. The village also houses many beautiful temples to explore. Lastly, experience the charm of the local apple orchards and the awe-inspiring Kinnaur-Kailash range.
13. Pangi Valley
Hotels to stay: Hotel Kalpa, Sairaag View Resort, TAB Exotic Kalpa
Nearby Airport: Gaggal in the Kangra District (300 km)
Nearby Railway Station: Pathankot (276 km)
Ideal Duration: 4 – 5 days
Pangi Valley is one of the best offbeat destinations in Himachal Pradesh. This serene, pristine, and quiet area comprises only tribal people. Climb between 7000 ft to 11000 ft above sea level and reach here. It is surrounded by white peaked mountain tops, creating a surreal and picturesque setting for travelers. Strolling on the rugged roads of the valley is a real adventure!
Trekking, hiking, camping, wildlife watching, and exploring the local culture of the tribes are some of the must-do things when at Pangi Valley. Apart from these, you can also visit the nearby attractions like the Dalhousie Hill Station and Chamba.
14. Fagu
Hotels to stay: AquaForest Luxury Villas, Snowline View Homestay, The Tikker
Nearby Airport: Jubbarhatti (45 km)
Nearby Railway Station: Kalka Railway Station at Shimla (22 km)
Ideal Duration: 2 days
Fagu is a secret place in Himachal Pradesh tucked away in the hills. Step into the sunny balcony of your resort when here. Step onto the sunny balcony with your morning tea, the cold breeze, and flickering sun rays in the pine forest! All of these create a serene and calm atmosphere worth enjoying.
The natural beauty of Fagu lies in its lush green apple orchard, deodar forest, lush green vegetation, and scattered wooden houses. If you are here, try exciting activities like hiking, strolling, walking in the apple orchards, visiting Bhantia Devta Temple, and watching the sun setting at Chharabra Sunset and Sunrise Point.
15. Sainj Valley
Hotels to stay: Kanaun By Vacasso, House of Stories, Valley View Shanghai
Nearby Airport: Bhuntar Airport (37 km)
Ideal Duration: 7 days
Being one of the untouched areas of Himachal Pradesh, Sainj Valley is a must-visit destination. It’s known for its pristine beauty and serene environment. This offbeat destination is relatively untouched by tourism. So, backpackers who are seeking tranquility need to come to this valley.
Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayan mountains, Sainj Valley offers breathtaking views and lush green landscapes. The two scenic spots, Dehuri & Nahi, should be covered by you here. Also, explore the surrounding wilderness, go trekking, and capture the view of the charming Raktisar landscape.
16. Lahaul
Hotels to stay: Gemoor Khar- Manor House, Jispa Gemoor Homestay, Darcha (BARALACHA) Home Stay
Nearby Airport: Bhuntar Airport (245 km)
Nearby Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station (360 km)
Ideal Duration: 4 – 6 days
Lahaul is another hidden gem in Himachal Pradesh, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. It is home to beautiful landscapes, monasteries, deep valleys, towering peaks, deep valleys, hanging glaciers, rivers, temples, etc. Gondhla Fort, NeelKanth Mahadev Lake, Ghepan Lake, and Deepak Tal (Lake) are must-see places here.
Something that makes Lahaul unique and distinctive is it reflects a blend of Hindu-Buddhist cultures! Some exciting things to enjoy in Lahaul include cycling, night camping, bike riding, wildlife watching, river rafting, skiing, trekking, etc.
17. Narkanda
Hotels to stay: The Wonderland Cottages & Cafe Matiana, Majestic Himalayan Homestay, Small Victories Stay & Cafe
Nearby Airport: Shimla Airport
Nearby Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station (62 km)
Ideal Duration: 1- 2 days
Narkanda is one of the offbeat places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, situated at 2708 meters on the Hindustan Tibet Road. Tourists will get to soak in the spectacular view of snow ranges, so if you are someone who wants to enjoy the retreat in nature’s lap and savor the serenity of the Himalayan region.
The unique view of the snowline, dense forests, and inviting apple orchards all make the place a must-visit! Try to come here during winter and indulge in skiing and other winter sports like snowboarding.
18. Janjehli
Hotels to stay: The Spot Valley, Club Mahindra Janjehli, Hotel Golden Valley, The Spot Valley Show Prices 7 reviews
Nearby Airport: Bhuntar Airport in Kullu
Nearby Railway Station: Joginder Nagar Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 5 days
Embrace serenity in nature’s lap by coming to the offbeat tourist destination, i.e., Janjehli. It allows visitors to experience a more authentic and peaceful Himalayan atmosphere! In the Himachal Pradesh region, Janjehli offers a tranquil escape with picturesque landscapes and the opportunity to explore pristine natural beauty.
The top things to enjoy at Janjehli include visiting Shikari Devi Temple, trekking, camping, photography, motorbiking, bird watching, and picking in the meadows spot. Relax and meditate when here to find yourself away from the hustle and bustle of busy city life!
19. Church Valley
Nearby Airport: Pathankot Airport
Nearby Railway Station: Pathankot Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 2 days
Churah Valley is one of the offbeat places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. Though not many tourists come here, it’s worth including in your itinerary. The exceptional scenic beauty and sweeping lush green cover of deodar, ban, kail, spruce, and fir trees – all come together to create a mesmerizing landscape in Churah Valley.
The best time to visit Churah Valley is during monsoons. Well, when you are here, do visit the Devi Kothi temple. Watch the valley covered with snow on most days of the year. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, consider trekking to the pristine lake in the region, where you can soak in the breathtaking beauty of this lesser-known Himalayan destination.
20. Gushaini
Hotels to stay: Rock and River Homestay, Arjun Homestay, Rustic Wood House, Tirthan Valley Laxmi Homestay, Tirthan Riverview Homestay
Nearby Airport: Bhuntar Airport (50 km)
Nearby Railway Station: Joginder Nagar
Ideal Duration: 4 – 9 days
Gushaini is a pristine and serene small village in Tirthan Valley. Since the village sits on the banks of the pristine Tirthan River, you can expect ultimate relaxation here! The rustic wooden buildings, Flachan River, and apricot orchards all combine to make the place hysterical.
If you are an outdoor lover, Gushaini offers opportunities for trekking, fishing, and exploring the lush landscapes. It’s an excellent place to unwind, rejuvenate, and soak in the natural beauty of the Tirthan Valley while staying in cozy homestays that offer an authentic local experience.
21. Churdhar
Hotels to stay: Cabin in Fagu
Nearby Airport: Shimla Airport
Nearby Railway Station: Kalka train station (100 km)
Ideal Duration: 2 days
Churdhar is one of the best offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh. Coming here means experiencing a serene ambiance! How beautiful it sounds to open your eyes amidst the lush landscapes! Plan a trip to this lesser-known place and soak in the pristine natural beauty, enjoy trekking, and revel in the tranquility.
Churdhar Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit in Chardhar. This century is perched in the foothills of the Himalayas. When here, you can spot the wild side of Himachal Pradesh. And don’t forget to soak in the fantastic views of Churdhar Peak.
22. Kinnaur
Hotels to stay: Hotel Batseri SANGLA, Hotel Kalpa, Samaa Resorts – Chitkul Height, Folktales Residency, The Grand Shangri-La, The Monk-Kalpa, Hotel Kinner Kailash
Nearby Airport: Jubbarhatti Airport (267 km)
Nearby Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station (244 km)
Ideal Duration: 5 – 6 days
Kinnaur is one of the twelve districts of Himachal Pradesh. This hidden gem is known as the “Land of God” and allures tourists who love exploring serene and less-traveled destinations. From here, you will get the mesmerizing views of Zanskar Valley and the snow-draped Dhauladhar range.
Apart from nature’s grandeur, you will also indulge in several thrilling and adventurous activities in Kinnaur. The place is famous for hosting sports like trekking and skiing. Tourists can take up any of the well-known routes for trekking. And yes, taste the delicious apples and behold the sights of handlooms and handicrafts.
23. Charang Valley
Hotels to stay: Dolma Guest Inn, Panaash Eco World – A Luxury Glamping Dome Resort, LAP Stays
Nearby Airport: Kullu Airport
Nearby Railway Station: Dharampur Himachal Railway Station
Ideal Duration: 3 – 4 days
Charang Valley is an attractive, offbeat place to visit in Himachal and an alluring trekking site. Adventure seekers and trekkers will have a lot to do when here. The valley has to offer spectacular views of the alluring snow-capped mountains. Those nature admirers get an opportunity to soak in the beauty of lush meadows, verdant forests, and huge vineyards.
Activities for tourists to do at Charang Valley include trekking, soaking in panoramic views of the Kinner Kailash Range, visiting alpine villages, and sightseeing in ancient Buddhist monasteries. Don’t miss the opportunity to spend some good time at the enticing apple orchard. This is going to be a rewarding experience for your lifetime!
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- 14 Beautiful Valley in Himachal Pradesh
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- 13 Local Food of Himachal Pradesh
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