Attractive Tourist Places
Manali
Manali offers much in terms of natural beauty such as panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains, flower gardens and orchards with green and red apples; places such as Solang Valley known as a winter sports location; the Nehru Kund, which is a clear water spring; the Kothi Village, offering views of a deep gorge through which River Beas flows; and the Rahalla Falls. Manali is a haven for adventure sports enthusiasts like skiing, paragliding, trekking, river rafting and fishing.
Shimla
Shimla, also known as Simla, is a tourism paradise located in the midst of Himalayan cedars and pines. Known as the 'Queen of Hill Stations'. The erstwhile summer capital of the British features dense woodlands, apple orchards and beautiful landscapes. Capitalising on grand old testimonies, colonial characteristics, peace-loving environment and adventure opportunities, Shimla welcomes tourists from around the world.
Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass (3979 m) is 51kms. from Manali on highway to Keylong/Leh. It offers a panorama and spectacular mountain view. It is a gateway to Lahaul Spiti, Pangi and Leh valley just as Zojila pass is a gatway to Ladakh. There are a beautiful sight of glaciers, peaks and Chandra river flows down in the Lahaul valley. Slightly to the left are the twin peaks of the Geypan.
Kullu
The city of Kullu nestles in the 'Valley of Gods', situated on the banks of River Beas. Its main attraction is the scenic surroundings - green carpeted hills, sparkling rivers, tall deodar forests, apple orchards and uninterrupted views of the Himalayan snow-peaks. Besides being blessed with abundant natural beauty, Kullu offers an excellent base for adventure sports.
Dalhousie
Dalhousie offers interesting period architecture that range from ancient temples to Gothic styled churches. There are several places within and around Dalhousie that are good picnic spots. One can witness a blend of adventure, historic significance and natural beauty at all the major tourist spots in Dalhousie. It offers different experiences during different seasons.
Dharamshala
Dharamshala, the gateway to the Kangra valley. Located in the backdrop of the snow clad Dhauladhar ranges of the Himalayas. The hill station of Dharamshala is covered by thick woods of oak and coniferous trees and it is enfolded on its three sides by the Dhauladhar ranges. The geographical location of Dharamshala offers views of the snow capped Dhauladhar range above and the Kangra valley below.
Kasauli
Kasauli is a picturesque hill station situated in the foothills of the Dhauladhar Ranges of the lower Himalayas, near a fresh water spring. Kasauli is a quiet and small town set in the backdrop of the Dhauladhar Ranges with natural trails for long walks. Christ Church, Monkey Point, Sanawar, Sabathu Fort, etc. are some of the major attractions in Kasauli.
Lahaul and Spiti
Kunzum la aka Kunzum Pass is the entry way to Spiti valley through Lahaul. The Spiti Valley surrounded by lofty mountain ranges and the Spiti River is a barren land too difficult to cross, Lahaul is totally opposite with its lush greenery. Buddhist monasteries and the magnificent natural beauty have given a unique distinct look to Lahaul and Spiti. The most famous tourist attractions in the area include monasteries like Guru Ghantal, Dhankar, Shashur, Ki, the Tavul Gompas, Tabo Monastery, Kardang Monastery & Kye Monastery.
Mandi
Mandi was named as Mandav Nagar after the Sage Mandav and there are several ancient temples here. There are about 300 temples here dedicated to Lord Shiva and Kali, out of which, around 81 temples are the oldest ones made of stone with intricate carvings. Other attractions here include the Sunken Garden, which is also known as the Ghantaghar. Around 25 kilometres from the region is the Lake of Rewalsar.
Manikaran
Manikaran is very important and holy for both Sikhs and Hindus. Towards the northern side of Manikaran, there is the Harinder Mountain and on the south is the Parvati River. Manikaran or 'Jewel of the Ear' is often associated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. One of the major attractions of the region is the temple of Lord Ramchandra. Other attractions include the Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurudwara and the temple of Lord Shiva. The hot springs of Manikaran also attract a lot of tourists.
Bhuntar
The lofty mountains surrounding Bhuntar offer ample opportunities to explore the natural wilderness, and indulge in varied adventure activities like white water rafting and camping. This gateway to Kullu Valley has a mythological history that bears resemblance to Noah in The Bible. Legends reveal that Manu, the founder of civilisation, arrived in Bhuntar. River Satluj flowing across the town offers healing to many here.