Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages

1. About Himachal Pradesh
2. Tidbits
3. Essential Tips To Know Before Travelling To Himachal Pradesh
4. Our Best Budget Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages
5. Himachal Pradesh At A Glance
6. Top Reasons To Visit Himachal Pradesh
7. Best Time To Visit Himachal Pradesh
8. Top Places to Visit In Himachal Pradesh
9. Top Things To Do In Himachal Pradesh
10. Shopping In Himachal Pradesh
11. Dos and Don’ts While Travelling To Himachal Pradesh
12. Foods To Try Out In Himachal Pradesh
13. Art And Culture In Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh became a province in 1948, comprising of 30 princely states. These were administered by the chief commissioner, who was a representative of the Indian Government. Himachal Pradesh was granted statehood in 1971, prior to which it underwent numerous administrative changes. It was declared a union territory in 1956. The size of Himachal Pradesh increased due to the inclusion of several Punjab hill areas, such as Kullu, Kangra, and Shimla. In January 1971, Himachal Pradesh became the 18th state of India. Yashwant Singh Parmar was the first chief minister of the state.

The majority of the working population of Himachal Pradesh is engaged in the fields of agriculture, horticulture, pastoralism, forestry, and transhumance. Some of the main crops grown in the state include wheat, rice, barley, maize, chicory seeds, mushrooms, vegetable seeds, and ginger. Due to the extensive cultivation of apples in Himachal Pradesh, it’s often called the ‘Apple State of India’, which also adds to its economy. Numerous development plans have been initiated to properly utilise the state’s mineral and forest resources and deep hydropower potential. Himachal Pradesh is also known to produce a major portion of the hydroelectric power of the country.

• Himachal Pradesh is known as the ‘Land of the Gods’ primarily because of the many spiritual places the state is home to.
• The name of the state is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Hima’, which literally translates to ‘snow’. Therefore, the meaning of ‘Himachal Pradesh’ is ‘in the lap of the Himalayas’.
• Himachal Pradesh achieved statehood in 1971.
• The state is one of the largest producers of apples in India.
• The Chail Cricket Ground in Himachal Pradesh is said to be the world’s highest cricket ground.
• As per a study released in 2017, Himachal Pradesh was revealed to be the least corrupt state in the country.
• The Kalka-Shimla Railway, fondly known as the Toy Train, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.
• The village of Malana in Himachal Pradesh is known as the ‘Settlement of Taboos’ wherein exists a rule that no outsiders are allowed to touch the inhabitants of the village or their property.
• The Manimahesh Kailash Peak, also known as Chamba Kailash, in Himachal Pradesh, is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva.
• Himachal Pradesh has one of the highest literacy rates in India.

• Always check the weather forecast before you head out, be it for sightseeing or outdoor adventures. This is particularly during the monsoon season, which is when landslides are common; therefore, it’s crucial to be careful.
• The strength of the currents in the waterbodies of Himachal Pradesh is pretty high and can be quite deceptive. Kindly maintain a safe distance from the boulders and rocks located near the rivers.
• In regions of high altitude, one could experience altitude sickness, which is why staying hydrated is very important.
• The rural areas in Himachal Pradesh may not always have ATMs, and the network could be poor in these regions. Hence, it’s better to carry cash while visiting the remote areas.
• Light layers are always needed in Himachal Pradesh, even during the summer months when the nights tend to get chilly. Pack your clothes accordingly.
• While the tipping culture is not totally prevalent in the state as of yet, you can give a 10% tip if you like someone’s services. This includes waiters, porters, drivers, and so on.

The following are some of the many reasons to grab our Himachal Pradesh tour packages:

The mesmerising natural beauty of Himachal Pradesh is certainly one of the top reasons to visit the state. From snow-capped mountains and lush green meadows to serene rivers and tranquil valleys, each corner of Himachal Pradesh feels like a painting. Be it the popular favourites, such as Shimla, Kullu, Manali, and Dalhousie, or the lesser explored destinations like Kasol and Spiti Valley, you will never run out of regions to uncover with our Himachal Pradesh tour packages.

The fact that Himachal Pradesh is renowned as the ‘Land of the Gods’ is a testimony to the spiritual significance the place holds. The serene ambience of the state adds further to its holy allure. In fact, it’s believed that the Manimahesh Kailash Peak in Himachal Pradesh is the abode of Lord Shiva. Some of the many religious spots to explore in the state are Christ Church, Jakhu Temple, Hidimba Devi Temple, and Baijnath Temple.

The culture and climate of Himachal Pradesh contribute immensely to the cuisine of the state, which has major Tibetan and Punjabi influences. There are recipes that have been passed down across generations and serve well, especially during the long winter months. If you’re looking for non-vegetarian options, you can try out the Kullu trout fish and chha ghost. For those wishing to try out veg food in Himachal Pradesh, there are unique delicacies, such as bhey, aktori, babru, and madra.

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, then our Himachal Pradesh tour packages have an endless range of surprises in store for you. Owing to the diverse landscapes of the state, there are a bunch of outdoor adventurous activities that tourists can engage in. This includes winter activities, such as skiing and snowboarding, water-based adventures like kayaking, and activities that take you high up in the air, such as paragliding and hot air ballooning.

Did you think that sightseeing is the only thing you will be doing with our Himachal Pradesh tour packages? Think again, because the shopping scene in the state is immensely exciting. The rich culture of Himachal Pradesh is visible through its bustling markets and unique souvenirs. From jewellery and winter accessories to handicrafts, paintings, and carpets, you will be spoilt for choice while shopping in the Land of the Gods.

Let’s take a look at what each season in Himachal Pradesh is like so you can accordingly decide when to book our Himachal Pradesh tour packages:

During the summer season, the temperature in the colder regions of Himachal Pradesh, such as Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala, fluctuates between 10 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees Celsius. In the low-lying areas, though, such as Kangra, the range of temperature is usually between 20 degrees Celsius and 35 degrees Celsius. The weather during this period is pleasant in a way that you can enjoy all the outdoor activities in peace, including trekking, paragliding, hot air ballooning, kayaking, and river rafting. Make sure to pack trekking shoes, sunscreen, and a mix of summer clothes and light layers. Some of the festivals you could experience during this season with our Himachal Pradesh tour packages are Doongri Fair, Baisakhi, and the Shimla Summer Festival.

During the monsoon months, the areas of higher altitude experience a temperature range between 10 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees Celsius. The areas of lower altitude, on the other hand, experience between 20 degrees Celsius and 35 degrees Celsius. Although the lush greenery of the state comes alive at this time, this is usually the off-season, and hence, you can book our Himachal Pradesh tour packages for this period to avail of some discounts. The reason the crowds are fewer during the monsoon period is due to the increased risk of landslides. Therefore, check the weather forecast before making your travel plans. Due to safety reasons, adventurous activities such as trekking and hiking are restricted for this period. Remember to carry a lightweight jacket, mufflers, mosquito repellents, and windcheaters. The events and festivals that usually occur at this time are the Minjar Festival, Phulaich, and the La Darcha Fair.

The temperature in the areas of higher altitude usually remains between -5 degrees Celsius and 10 degrees Celsius during the winter months. The regions of lower altitude display a temperature range between 5 degrees Celsius and 15 degrees Celsius. The state transforms into a winter wonderland during this season. Winter activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating, can be enjoyed at this time with our Himachal Pradesh tour packages. Beware of frostbite, hypothermia, and altitude sickness, especially in regions of higher altitude. Some of the roads could be blocked due to heavy snowfall, so plan your itinerary accordingly. Carry plenty of thermals and woollen clothes along with sunscreen and sunglasses. The festivals celebrated in Himachal Pradesh during the winter period include the Halda Festival, Lohri, and Manali Winter Carnival.

Situated at the northern end of the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh is the beloved hill station known as Manali. As per Hindu mythology, the name of the town is derived from ‘Manu-Alaya’, which translates to ‘the abode of Manu’. This is in reference to Swayambhuva Manu, who, according to Hinduism, was the first man and the forefather of humanity. The connection to Hindu mythology has given Manali the title of the ‘Valley of the Gods’, offering tourists a panoramic view of the Pir Panjal and the Dhauladhar ranges of the Himalayas. While exploring Manali with our Himachal Pradesh tour packages, make sure to visit Rohtang Pass, Hidimba Devi Temple, Solang Valley, and Manu Temple.

Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and also its largest city. Fondly known as the ‘Queen of the Hills’, it’s spread across seven hills in the northwest Himalayas. It was made the summer capital of British India in 1864. Perched at an altitude of 2,200 metres, Shimla has an alluring old-world charm with its quaint cafes, colonial architecture, and historical landmarks such as the Christ Church. The hill station serves as an agricultural trade centre and houses various kinds of industries, such as handloom weaving, horticulture, and agriculture. The spots to visit in Shimla with our Himachal Pradesh tour packages are Jakhu Temple, The Ridge, Mall Road, Viceregal Lodge, and Kufri.

Kasol is a quaint and picturesque hamlet located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. Perched along the banks of the Parvati River, it’s commonly called the ‘Amsterdam of India’ because of its laidback lifestyle. The village is a magnet for adventure enthusiasts, backpackers, and nature lovers. It’s renowned for numerous trekking trails, such as the Kheerganga Trek, Tosh Valley Trek, Pin Parvati Pass Trek, and Malana Trek.

Mcleodganj is a suburb in the town of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. It’s the home of the Dalai Lama and the headquarters of the Tibetan government-in-exile. Due to its large Tibetan population, the suburb has earned the title of ‘Little Lhasa’. Nestled in the Dhauladhar range at a height of 2,082 metres, Mcleodganj was named after Sir Donald Friell McLeod, who was the former Lieutenant Governor of Punjab. When you visit this serene suburb with our Himachal Pradesh tour packages, you can explore places like the Naddi View Point, Namgyal Monastery, Church of St. John in the Wilderness, and Bhagsunag Waterfall.

Sitting comfortably in the upper reaches of Himachal Pradesh’s Kangra Valley is the hill town known as Dharamshala. Located at an elevation of about 1,475 metres above sea level, the town is divided into two sections. The first section is usually referred to as Lower Dharamshala, which is the commercial heart of the town, and consists of the main bus stand and bazaar or market. The other section, called Upper Dharamshala, includes the mesmerising suburb of Mcleodganj. As you walk around Kotwali Bazaar, you can shop for unique Tibetan handicrafts, such as thangkas, singing bowls, carpets, prayer flags, and shawls.

When you visit the state with our Himachal Pradesh tour packages, you will get to explore all its gems and engage in a variety of thrilling activities. Here are some of the tourist attractions to visit and the adventures to participate in:

The Christ Church in India is said to be the second-oldest church in North India. Built in 1857, the church was meant to serve the Anglican British community that resided in the city during the 19th century. Constructed in a neo-Gothic style, it was designed by Colonel J. T. Boileau. The church is known for its five fine stained-glass windows. Each of these windows depicts a Christian virtue, namely charity, fortitude, patience, humility, and hope.

The Ridge is a large, popular, open space situated in the heart of Shimla. Located close to Mall Road, it’s a social hub filled with bars, clubs, restaurants, shops, and boutiques. It provides tourists with a great view of Christ Church.

The Jakhu Temple in Shimla is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Containing a massive idol of the god that stands 108 feet tall, it’s one of the highest Hanuman statues in the country. The mythology associated with this temple is immensely interesting. Legend says that as per the Ramayana, Lord Hanuman made a stop at Jakhu Hill while looking for the Sanjeevani herb to treat Lakshmana. It was during this visit that he met a sage named Yaaku. As Lord Hanuman started collecting information about the herb, he sat on the mountain. The mountain flattened under his weight, but Hanuman was mighty impressed with the sage’s devotion. He promised to meet him on his way back, but certain incidents prevented him from doing so. An idol of Lord Hanuman appeared at the location after his departure. In order to honour the god’s visit, the sage decided to erect a temple at the very spot. The locals believe that the place is blessed with the footprints of Lord Hanuman.

The Rohtang Pass is undoubtedly one of the most awe-inspiring locations you will get to visit with our Himachal Pradesh tour packages. This high mountain pass sits on the eastern Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas. Situated approximately 51 km from Manali, it’s nestled at a marvellous height of 3,978 metres above sea level. The pass serves as a link between the Kullu Valley and the Lahaul and Spiti district. Jab We Met is one of the Bollywood movies that used the Rohtang Pass as a shooting location.

The Great Himalayan National Park is located in the region of Kullu in Himachal Pradesh. Sprawled over an area of 1,171 sq km, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in June 2014. Established in 1984, the park houses numerous species specific to the Western Himalayas. This includes leopards, gorals, snow leopards, brown bears, musk deer, and Himalayan tahr. The location was given the status of a national park in 1999. The presence of the oak trees and deodar trees adds to the beauty of the region.

Kareri Lake, which is also known as Kumarwah Lake, is located 9 km from Dharamshala in the Dhauladhar mountain range. This glacial lake is nestled at a height of 2,934 metres above sea level. On a hilltop that overlooks the Kareri Lake, you will find a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti. The melted snow from the Dhauladhar mountains results in the crystal-clear waters of this serene lake. It remains frozen from early December till March or April.

The Hidimba Devi Temple, which is also known as the Dhungari Temple, is located in Manali. It’s engulfed by a cedar forest called Dhungiri Van Vihar. Built by Maharaja Bahadur Singh in 1553 AD, the temple is dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, wife of Bhima, who was one of the Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata. The legend associated with the temple is immensely intriguing. As per the legend, Hidimba was a demoness who fell in love with Bhima and helped him defeat her demon brother, Hidimb. The union of Bhima and Hidimba led to the birth of their son Ghatotkacha.

Kasauli is a hill station situated in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. Nestled at a height of approximately 1,900 metres above sea level, the town is embellished with misty lanes, intricately designed avenues, cobbled streets, and lush gardens. Some of the tourist attractions you must visit in Kasauli with our Himachal Pradesh tour packages are Monkey Point, Sunset Point, Gurkha Fort, Christ Church, Central Research Institute, and Gilbert Trail.

Dalhousie is a hill station located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. Established in 1854, the location was named after Lord Dalhousie, James Andrew Ramsay, who was the then Governor-General of India. The town served as a popular summer retreat during the British era. Situated at a height of about 2,000 metres above sea level, Dalhousie is spread across five hills near the Dhauladhar mountain range, namely Kathlog, Potreyn, Terah, Bakrota, and Bhangora. There is a spot in Dalhousie known as Subhash Baoli, which was named after Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, who is said to have meditated here during his stay in the region in 1937.

• Camping in Kasol
• Paragliding in Bir Billing and Dharamshala
• Hot air ballooning in Manali
• Skiing in Solang Valley
• Yak rides in Manali
• Trekking in Manali, Dharamshala, and Kullu
• River rafting in Kullu

Himachal Pradesh is a paradise for shoppers. Check out the souvenirs to grab from the state and the markets to check out with our Himachal Pradesh tour packages:

The apparel and accessories available in Himachal Pradesh will make you want to embellish yourself from head to toe. Some of the different kinds of items to buy from this category are shawls, caps, and woollen clothes.

If you’re searching for souvenirs from the state to decorate your home or ones that will make for perfect gifts, then the rugs and carpets of Himachal Pradesh are a great option to go for. You can buy the Kashmiri carpets with their intricate designs and floral motifs, or rugs made from beaten wool.

You will find various Tibetan souvenirs in Himachal Pradesh, and one of the most popular from the lot is Thangka paintings. These Tibetan Buddhist paintings can be made on silk or cotton, featuring mandalas, geometric patterns, or Buddhist deities. You can also buy Kangra paintings, named after the Kangra region of the state. These miniature paintings feature colours such as blue, red, and yellow and have religious themes.

Since Himachal Pradesh is one of the leading apple-producing regions in the country, you absolutely must buy some of the apple-based products during your vacation. This could be juices, jams, ciders, and even dried apples.

Kangra tea is produced in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Available in the form of black tea and green tea, this tea is known for its high quality, distinct aroma, and a slightly fruity taste. Although the taste is milder compared to Darjeeling tea, Kangra tea has more liquor and body.

• Mall Road (Shimla): For handicrafts, woollen items, hats.
• Mall Road (Manali): For handicrafts, clothes, footwear.
• Tibetan Market (Dharamshala): For Tibetan prayer flags, paintings, singing bowls.
• Kotwali Bazaar (Dharamshala): For Tibetan carpets, wall hangings, paintings, murals.
• Mall Road (Mcleodganj): For Tibetan artefacts, paintings, prayer wheels.

• Try to contribute to the economy of the state by shopping from the local vendors and supporting small businesses.
• Not all the stores accept UPI payments or credit or debit cards, particularly in remote areas or small shops. Therefore, carry sufficient cash when you go shopping.
• Bargaining is common in the markets of Himachal Pradesh. Negotiate respectfully with the shopkeeper till you reach a middle ground.
• If you want to avoid crowds while you shop, it’s better to go early in the morning or late in the evening.

• Dress modestly while visiting religious spots and holy places.
• Always take your shoes off before entering someone’s home.
• Some tourist spots prohibit photography. Respect the rules, and also ask for permission before taking someone’s photograph, especially women.
• Himachal Pradesh is renowned for its natural beauty, so make sure not to litter. If there’s anything you need to throw away, do so only when you see a garbage bag.
• Minimise the use of plastic as it can pollute the natural beauty and water bodies of the state. Dispose of any plastic items in garbage bins.
• Don’t disturb the vegetation, forests, and wildlife in Himachal Pradesh. When you come across an animal, observe them from afar and don’t go too close or bother them.
• Don’t purchase items that are made from endangered or rare animals or species.

The cuisine of Himachal Pradesh is a mixture of its environment, Tibetan influences, and agricultural practices. The state’s foods are as diverse as the topography and culture of the region. Given the long and harsh winter season the state faces, you will come across dishes that are hearty, wholesome, nourishing, and provide a blend of flavour and warmth. Himachal Pradesh’s cuisine, especially in the northern areas, is majorly influenced by Punjabi and Tibetan food. Here are the dishes you absolutely must try out during your trip with our Himachal Pradesh tour packages:

Dhaam is the traditional thaali of Himachal Pradesh. It comprises dishes such as rice, rajma, dal, boor ki kadi, curd, sweets, and jaggery. Dhaam is a common inclusion during special occasions, festivals, and gatherings. A unique feature about this dish is that it’s made by specialised hereditary Brahmin chefs known as ‘botis’.

Madra is a delicacy that’s particularly popular in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. The velvety curry consists of ground chickpeas with a rich and creamy yoghurt base. A conscious and slow style of cooking is used to make this dish, resulting in a nutty and sweet flavour. The adaptability of the dish is what adds to its popularity, as it can also be made using vegetables or meat, thereby appealing to non-vegetarians and vegans alike. The spices used to make madra include cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, turmeric powder, and coriander powder.

Lovers of seafood must try out the Kullu trout fish, which, as the name suggests, is made using fresh river trout and is popular in the Kullu region of Himachal Pradesh. The fish is marinated using mild spices so as to retain its natural taste and nutritional properties. It’s then gently pan-fried till the exterior turns crispy while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. It’s usually served with boiled potatoes or vegetables, thereby adding to the healthy nature of the dish.

Siddu is a traditional dish of Himachal Pradesh, basically referring to a bun with a delicious filling. The dough for the bun is made using yeast and wheat flour, and is stuffed with fat before being cooked. Initially, the dough is placed on a direct flame and roasted for a bit, after which it is steamed till it’s completely cooked. The steamed method of cooking helps in keeping the nutritional value of the dish alive while also retaining its taste. It’s usually served alongside mutton preparations or even dal and vegetables.

A babru can be considered as Himachal Pradesh’s version of kachoris, but it comes with a unique twist of its own. It’s a flatbread made up of a black gram paste stuffing. After being soaked overnight, the black gram is ground into a coarse paste. These are then turned into fritters or pancakes, which are fried till they turn golden brown while having a soft interior. The dish is usually served alongside madra and tamarind chutney.

Tudkiya bhath is the Himachali version of a pulao. Some of the ingredients that go into making this delightful concoction are lentils, ghee, potatoes, yoghurt, onions, tomatoes, cardamom, cinnamon, and garlic. The dish is often served alongside mashed dal and a bit of lime juice.

Aktori can be considered the Himachali form of a pancake. It’s unique since the dish is made using buckwheat flour, as buckwheat is grown in the region and is known for its health benefits. Aktori originated in the Spiti Valley and is now a beloved dish across Himachal Pradesh. Commonly made during celebrations and festivals, the other ingredients needed to make this dish are wheat flour, water, milk, sugar, and baking soda.

The souvenirs available in the vibrant markets of Himachal Pradesh stand as fine examples of the skilled artisans of the state and the air of art that permeates every corner of its mountains and valleys. There are the Kangra paintings, named after the Kangra region, featuring a distinct type of lyricism and calm hues. One must also explore the Thangka paintings available in the state. There is a popular kind of embroidery known as the Chamba rumal embroidery, which originated in the Chamba region of Himachal Pradesh. This intricate and unique double-sided embroidery showcases vivid storytelling, speaking of tales related to Pahari traditions. Woodwork and metalwork also form an integral part of the art and craft department of Himachal Pradesh.

Different regions of Himachal Pradesh have their own kind of folk music, thereby adding to the diverse culture of the state. Ainchaliyan, for example, is a kind of religious ballad that’s performed among farming communities and also in the homes of brides. Other types of folk music in the state include karak, soohadiyan (songs sung during labour or childbirth), and dholru. There are also mohana and jhoori, both of which are types of love songs.

The cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh shines bright through the many festivals and fairs that take place in the state throughout the year. There is the Kullu Dussehra, which takes place in the Kullu valley and is a week-long affair. It’s observed during the month of October. The festival of Losar celebrates the Tibetan New Year. The Doongri Festival in Manali is dedicated to the demon goddess Hidimba. It’s celebrated during Basant Panchami, marking the beginning of the spring season. Some of the festivals you could experience with our Himachal Pradesh tour packages are Halda, Shimla Summer Festival, Manali Winter Carnival, and Sazo.