Offbeat Places in Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh is one of the most beautiful states In India with beautiful valleys, majestic mountains and beautiful small villages. This northern Indian state may be home to popular tourist spots such as Manali and Shimla, but there are more than a few sights to visit here that are off the beaten path, offering calm, adventure and a unique charm. Here are 15 offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh for your next adventure. 

1. Jibhi 

jibhi

Perched in the beautiful Tirthan Valley, Jibhi can be described as a quiet and calm place. This is a beautiful little village that has wooden houses, lots of greenery and small streams.

Jibhi is a beautiful blend of nature and the local Himachali culture making it the perfect destination for a serene vacation.

Adventure seekers can go trekking to the beautiful Serolsar Lake which is considered sacred and located on the highlands surrounded by the thick forest.

They can also visit the marvellous Chehni Kothi, a tower-like structure built in the Himachali style. The stunning views, pristine natural beauty and clean mountain air make Jibhi the perfect place for people who need to leave behind the noisy city life and relax in nature. 

Best Time to Visit – March to June and September to November.

How to Get There – Accessible via road from Kullu, approximately 60 km away.

2. Barot

barot

    Barot is an interesting small village in the Mandi district which takes tourists directly into nature’s lap. Famously known for its trout-filled Uhl River, Barot is a preferred fishing hub.

    This village is surrounded by beautifully lush green hills making it a perfect spot for winding down, picnics and leisure walks. 

    For trekking enthusiasts, Barot serves as a base since it connects several beautiful trekking routes. You can also visit the Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary, home to rich flora and fauna.

    Barot with its calm and picturesque ambience is one of the more unconventional yet heavenly destinations in Himachal Pradesh.

    Best Time to Visit – April to June and September to November.

    How to Get There –  Easily accessible via road from Mandi, approximately 60 kilometres from there. 

    3. Tirthan Valley

    tirthan valley

      Tirthan Valley also popularly referred to as the entry point to the Great Himalayan National Park is a bird watcher and trekker’s paradise.

      It is naturally beautiful with clean rivers, apple orchards and quaint villages allowing tourists to experience the real natural beauty of Himachal.

      You can also enjoy activities such as trout fishing, camping and trekking. There are trekking trails that take one to fantastic locations like Rakhundi Top and Rolla apart while the riverside area provides a perfect spot to relax and unwind. Tirthan Valley’s charm is all about natural beauty that is sure to mesmerise your heart.

      Best Time to Visit – March to June and September to October.

      How to Get There – About 60 km from Mandi, easily accessible by road through state buses, taxis and personal vehicles. 

      4. Chitkul

      chitkul

        Chitkul is the last inhabited village that is located at the Indo-China borders. It is blessed with snow-clad mountains, lush green pastures and the murmuring Baspa River flowing nearby. Another addition to the rustic charm of Chitkul is its wooden houses and the apple fields.

        It is also one of the most excellent places for trekking and is famous for photography. The village also serves as a starting point for several trails mostly leading into the Kinnaur region.

        Despite being nestled in the lap of wilderness, there is something for all – thrill seekers as well as those looking to relax in Chitkul.

        Best Time to Visit – April to June and September to October.

        How to Get There – Accessible via local buses. It is located just 28 km away from Sangla.

        5. Kalpa

        kalpa

          Located at a picture-perfect location in the Kinnaur district, Kalpa is one of the most beautiful villages known for its picturesque view of the fairy-looking Kinnaur Kailash range.

          The village is surrounded by apple orchards offering a great escape from the bustling tourist spots. 

          You can visit the Narayan-Nagini temple or take a peaceful stroll around the apple plantation. The sunrise is especially beautiful in Kalpa, considering the amazing views of the peaks enveloped in the snow.

          This village is a dream destination for photographers and nature lovers alike.

          Best Time to Visit – March to June and September to December.

          How to Get There – Easily reachable via road from different parts of the country. 

          6. Shoja

          shoja

            Overlooked by many tourists, Shoja is a small village located close to Jalori Pass with magnificent lush green forests and glorious meadows.

            A beautiful place with its unspoiled beauty and calm ambience makes it perfect for lovers of nature.

            Visitors can trek to Serolsar Lake, enjoy birdwatching, or simply relax amidst the verdant surroundings. Shoja is also a great base for exploring the nearby Raghupur Fort.

            Best Time to Visit – March to May and September to November.

            How to Get There – Accessible via road from Banjar, 5 km away.

            7. Kinnaur

            kinnaur

              Spectacular apple orchards, lush green valleys and snow-clad mountain ranges make Kinnaur a heaven for any nature lover.

              Some of the most appealing sites are the beautiful valley of Sangla, the calm Nako Lake and beautiful and calm village of Kalpa. 

              However, what makes this valley even more stunning are folklore and immense historical significance which have left their impressions in temple architecture.

              Kinnaur is ideal for people who are looking to find a quiet and calm place, with beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. 

              Best Time to Visit – April to June and September to November.

              How to Get There – Kinnaur is easily reachable by road. There are regular buses from Delhi, Chandigarh and Shimla.

              8. Mashobra

              mashobra

                Mashobra is a quiet alternative to Shimla, set in a lush forest and uninhabited beauty. Visitors can have a scenic walk, birdwatching, and have a peaceful picnic in the serene surroundings making it perfect for nature lovers.

                The Craignano Nature Park, right nearby, provides great views, lots of gardens and a perfect setting for family outings. Mashobra is a simple and serene place where you can enjoy a quiet escape from the everyday hustle.

                Mashobra is a true beauty of simplicity and untouched charm. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast or someone looking to relax in solitude, Mashobra promises a rejuvenating experience in the heart of nature.

                Best Time to Visit – March to June and September to November.

                How to Get There – Located just 12 km from Shimla, it is easily accessible via road.

                9. Sangla

                sangla

                  Sangla Valley is located in the picturesque Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh and is a paradise for nature and culture lovers alike.

                  The valley where is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and a perfect mix of serenity and adventure.  Notable among its attractions are the historic Kamru Fort, known for its architectural charm, and the Batseri Village, famous for its traditional wooden houses. 

                  Sangla Valley is also a paradise for adventure lovers, where you can camp under the starry sky, cross the river amidst gushing streams, and trek through lush alpine meadows making it a must-visit destination in the Himalayas.

                  Best Time to Visit – March to June and September to October.

                  How to Get There – You can reach here by road, take a bus, taxi or your own vehicle for a comfortable and scenic journey. 

                  10 Khajjiar

                  khajjiar

                    Located in Himachal Pradesh, Khajjiar is fondly called the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’. It is famous for its lush green meadows, dense deodar forests, and a serene lake in the middle that makes for a picture-perfect landscape.

                    This charming destination is perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls and is also an adventure-friendly place with zorbing, paragliding and other activities ideal for thrill seekers.

                    Its natural beauty and serene ambience make Khajjiar a must-visit place for travellers who want to unwind or otherwise enjoy adrenaline adrenaline-pumping experience in the most beautiful surroundings.

                    Best Time to Visit – March to June and September to November.

                    How to Get There – Located just 24 km from Dalhousie, it is easily accessible via road.

                    Conclusion 

                    Himachal Pradesh offers these amazing offbeat destinations if you are looking for peace and adventure or just wish to explore Himachal Pradesh’s cultural heritage.

                    Each corner of Himachal has a story to tell from lush valleys and dense forests to ancient temples. There are tons of activities to enjoy if you are an adventure lover.

                    It can also calm your spirit with beautiful landscapes if you are a nature lover. Whether you’re after serenity in tranquil villages, admiring its pristine nature or looking for your next adventure, Himachal Pradesh promises unforgettable experiences for every kind of traveler, making it a haven for those looking to escape the ordinary.