Revvlog

Feel like going on a road trip but are wondering about the destination? Well, choose any place in Himachal Pradesh and you will not regret your decision even for once. In fact, you may just feel confused given the sheer number of destinations here. There are several places for backpackers in Himachal and each of them is sheer magic. While some of the popular backpacking destinations remain covered by snow during the winters, others are famous for their colonial charm and rich history. The backpacker destinations in the state are also great for adventure enthusiasts. However, before we discuss the several places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, here are some tips for you before you start your trip.

• The best time to travel to Himachal Pradesh is between November and February, especially if you want to witness snowfall. You can also plan your trip during the summers if you want to escape the heat for a few days. However, try not to head to the state during the rainy season.
• If you are going by road, you should start your journey early in the morning and avoid traveling at night.
• If you are traveling during the winters, make sure you carry a lot of warm clothes.
• You must try the sumptuous local cuisines served at the roadside dhabas.
• Whichever destination you are choosing, you must try to stay there for at least three days so that you can explore the place thoroughly.

7 Best backpacking destinations in Himachal Pradesh

• Kullu-Manali
• Shimla
• Kasauli
• Bir Billing
• Dharamshala
• Dalhousie
• Kasol

No matter how many times you visit Himachal Pradesh, it is tough to get over the beauty of this state. There are many places that you can visit. Let us talk about some of them which you must take a tour of.

1. Kullu-Manali

With fresh air, clear sky, verdant mountains, and snow-clad ranges, Kullu and Manali are actually one of the best choices for backpackers. There are so many Kullu-Manali tourist places that it would take at least a couple of days to cover each of them. While you are here, you can go trekking, try adventure sports at Solang Valley, visit the old temples, and visit Manali Bird Sanctuary. River rafting in Kullu is another activity that you can try.

Ideal time to visit: May to July and November to January 

2. Shimla

Shimla is certainly one of the best tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh. Whether you are traveling alone, with friends or family and kids, a trip to Shimla will never disappoint you. Shimla sightseeing places are many in numbers, which include the Mall Road for shopping, Annandale or try your hands in Polo, Jakhu Hill for trekking, a spiritual visit to the Lord Hanuman’s Temple. You can also visit the Viceregal Lodge here to experience British elegance. 

Ideal time to visit: May to July and November to January 

3. Kasauli

Kasauli is a small hill town that is surrounded by lush green hills. The weather is absolutely pleasant here and the roads that will take you to this beautiful place are worth mentioning and appreciating. Some of the Kasauli tourist places include the Monkey Point, Mall Road, Anglican Church, etc. If you want to trek, you can choose Gilbert Trail.

Ideal time to visit: November to January 

4. Bir Billing

If you are looking for typical backpacker destinations, you can undoubtedly choose Bir Billing. Located in the western part of Himachal Pradesh, this is a hamlet that every adventure enthusiast will like to go to. Some of the things to do here include paragliding, visiting the Buddhist monasteries in Choggan, Bhattu, and Chauntra Bhattu colony, visiting the 13th-century Vaidyanath which is devoted to Lord Shiva, etc.

Ideal time to visit: May to July

5. Dharamshala

You must visit this place, not only to see the scenic beauty but also to appreciate how the Indo-Tibetan communities are living together peacefully.  The weather in Dharamshala will make your trip even better. The Dharamshala tourist places that you must cover are Kangra Fort, boat ride at Dal Lake, Bhagsunath Temple, Bhagsu Falls, the Kangra Art Museum, the Dalai Lama Temple Complex, and several monasteries. 

Ideal time to visit: May to July and November to January

6. Dalhousie

The beauty of Dalhousie is often compared with Switzerland. The serene troposphere, lush greenery, and beautiful hills make this destination one of the most sought-after ones. Dalhousie is certainly one of the best places if you want to de-stress yourself. Some of the attractions in Dalhousie that you can visit are St. John’s Church, Ganji Pahari, Chemera Falls, Satdhara Falls, Khajjiar, etc.

Ideal time to visit: April to July

7. Kasol

Located in the Parvati Valley, Kasol is one of the places that is also considered as the backpacker’s paradise. This is a great place for camping and trekking. If you are planning for Kasol sightseeing, you can visit Kheerganga to take a dip in the hot water spring, Parvati Valley for trekking, etc.

Ideal time to visit: May and June

There is no dearth of Himachal Pradesh tourist places, especially if you are going solo or with friends. To enjoy the trip to the fullest and plan it on your terms, you can go for a self-drive car rental service. You can opt for a car rental from Revv to find the car of your choice and at the best rates possible. You can visit the website or browse through their app to choose the car that you think will be the right for your trip.