Himachal Pradesh, a state in northern India, attracts millions of tourists each year due to its enthralling scenery. This ‘Abode of Snow,’ characterized by snow-capped mountains and serene natural beauty, is home to hundreds of villages, each one unique in its way. Continue reading to learn about a few of the highlights.
Bir Billing
Bir Billing is a tiny village in the Kangra district dubbed ‘India’s paragliding capital.’ Bir Billing attracts paragliding enthusiasts due to its beautiful landscape and year-round pleasant weather. Billing is the launch location for paragliders, while Bir is the landing location, which is why the two hamlets are frequently referred to as one. Additionally, there are several Buddhist monasteries nearby that are worth visiting.
Chitkul
Chitkul Village in Himachal Pradesh’s Kinnaur district is India’s final inhabited village before the India-China border. This village is the ideal getaway with its rugged terrain, untouched natural beauty, and clean mountain air. It is especially well-known for its apple orchards, views of snow-capped mountains, and buildings with wooden or slate roofs. Additionally, a small tower and a Buddhist temple – Kagyupa temple are home to a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. Numerous simple to challenging hikes are available in and around the hamlet. From October through February, it is inaccessible due to excessive snowfall.
Barot
Barot is a remote hamlet in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district, perched on the embankment of the Uhl River. Surrounded by the Himalayan and Dhauladhar peaks and evergreen deodar woods, Barot is the ideal natural retreat. There are several recreational opportunities here, from hiking and camping to trout fishing on the Uhl River and animal viewing in the Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary.
Nako
It is located on the India-China border, is a lakeside hamlet surrounded by mountains. It’s an excellent place at any time of year, but particularly stunning in the winter. The surrounding snow-capped mountains, glistening blue lake, and lush vegetation make it a delight for every traveler. During the summer, visitors may go boating on the Nako Lake or ice skate on the lake’s frozen surface during the winter.
Kardang
It is located in Himachal Pradesh’s Lahaul area, provides stunning views of the majestic Rangcha Peak and is home to a magnificent 900-year-old monastery. The Drukpa Kagyu Kardang Monastery is home to a colossal golden Buddha, historic murals, and a library filled with Buddhist books and texts. Due to the village’s isolation from tourist throngs, it retains it’s quiet and beauty.
Kibber
Kibber is situated in the scenic Spiti Valley at the height of 4270 meters. There is a nature sanctuary, where the flora is supposed to have medicinal powers, and visitors may see Himalayan wolves, ibex, snow leopards, and Tibetan woolly hares. You may climb to Spiti Valley’s largest monastery, Key Gompa, which is about four kilometers distant. The whole region is ideal for climbing and hiking, and there are many guesthouses and homestays where you may enjoy genuine local friendliness. You may visit only from June to October since the temperature drops below freezing throughout the winter, rendering it inaccessible.
Komic
At 5486 meters above sea level, Komic is the world’s highest motorable hamlet. The village’s centerpiece is the 500-year-old Lundup Tsemo Gompa Buddhist Monastery, which houses Maitreya Buddha, who is supposed to look after the residents. Adventure seekers can explore the nearby hamlets and hills on foot or by bicycle. To reach there, take a cab from Kaza village or a government-run bus that runs exclusively on Tuesdays and Saturdays from Kaza to Komik.
Langaza
Langaza, located at an elevation of 4419 meters in the Lahaul and Spiti province, is famous for its ancient monasteries, marine plant and animal fossils, and a colossal 1000-year-old Lord Buddha statue. This location is appealing due to its snow-capped mountains, verdant meadows, and dry landscapes. There are several hiking paths in the highlands for adventure lovers.
Dhankar
Dhankar, located between Tabo and Kaza, has been untainted by commercialization, making it one of Himachal’s most picturesque settlements. The Dhankar Gompa is a historic monastery that houses an image of the Dhyana Buddha. Within the sanctuary is a museum containing old Buddhist items. Make a point of seeing Dhankar Lake, a glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped hills.
Malana
Malana is a historic community that has developed a reputation as a refuge for marijuana enthusiasts. Its locally manufactured hash, named Malana Cream, attracts marijuana enthusiasts from all over the globe. The unspoiled natural splendor, elaborately carved temples, and vistas of the Deo Tibba and Chanderkhani peaks all attract visitors (as well as a toke, should you wish). Malana is accessible by cab. However, the strenuous hike from Naggar or Jari is a more adventurous option.
Tosh
Tosh is a calm getaway due to its clean mountain air, natural beauty, vistas of the Parvati Valley, snow-capped mountains, and green hills. Numerous psychedelic and trance parties take place here, and tourists may also go hiking in the area. Kheerganga is one of the great treks.
Kasol
Also known as India’s mini-Israel, Kasol is popular with locals and international visitors, mainly from Israel and Europe. From moonlight parties and drum circles to Israeli food, the hippy culture is visible. Relax or take a walk along one of the neighboring paths.
Kaza
Kaza is a quiet village in the Lahaul-Spiti Valley, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It is the site of an old monastery and several historical structures. Kaza is the starting point for several notable trekking routes, including the Pin-Bhaba, Pin-Parvati, and Parang-La treks.
Janjehli
Janjehli’s steep terrain, deodar, and pine woods, and walking paths that go to 3300 meters attract nature and adventure enthusiasts, as well as photographers. Numerous temples are located atop the hill and are well worth a visit.