Places to Visit in Shimla

Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of the Himalayas, the Town Hall in Shimla stands as a majestic emblem of colonial-era architecture and the historical significance of this charming hill station in India. Erected during the British colonial period, the Town Hall exudes an aura of grandeur and nostalgia that harks back to a bygone era.

The Himachal State Museum in Shimla, India, is a cultural gem that encapsulates the rich history and heritage of the region. Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Himalayas, the museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts, artworks, and historical relics that provide insight into Himachal Pradesh's unique cultural tapestry.

Mall Road in Shimla, India, is a bustling thoroughfare that encapsulates the charm and vibrancy of this hill station. As the main commercial and social hub of the city, Mall Road is a lively strip that winds its way through the heart of Shimla. Encircled by colonial-era buildings, it offers a delightful blend of local markets, modern shops, and scenic viewpoints.

Christ Church, located in Shimla, India, is an iconic Gothic-style structure and one of the oldest churches in North India. Built in 1857, it boasts stunning architecture with stained glass windows, a majestic clock tower, and lush surroundings. The church's serene ambiance and historical significance make it a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Shimla's colonial heritage.

The Roopkund Lake is situated high up in the Garhwal Mountains in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. This lake is of much historical and religious importance. It was also called the Mystery or Skeletal Lake after a large number of human skeletons were found in it in 1942 by a Forest Officer.

Following this discovery, a number of scientists visited the lake to find out the reason for the skeletons being there and it was eventually concluded that the skeletons belonged to some pilgrims who were caught unawares in a flash hailstorm.

Due to the huge chunks of ice that came with the hailstorm, the pilgrims died due to injuries to their skulls. This story was aired in national and international media and since them the Roopkund Lake has become a popular tourist destination.

The trek to Roopkund Lake showcases the best of Himalayan beauty. The trek begins at Lohajung, which is situated at an elevation of 3200 metres and goes on for five days till you reach the lake, which is at an altitude of 5000 metres. The first couple of days will take you through beautiful villages, forests, rivers and Bugyals.

The air will get thinner and thinner as you ascend and gain altitude. So it is very important that you are in the best of health and fitness when you set out for this trek. Higher energy levels will allow you to adjust better with the changing environment and enjoy the views offered by the region. Your team leader will also offer you tips on how to cope with the changing levels of the atmosphere.

The trekking trail followed during the Roopkund trek coincides with that of the Raj Jay Yatra pilgrimage route. This is conducted during a festival dedicated to goddess Nanda Devi and the residents of nearby village participate in this festival dressed in their traditional attire.

Best Season: August - October
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Max. Elevation: 5020 m

The Khatling Glacier is the source of the rivers Bhilangana, Sahasratal and Masartal. The Garhwal region of Uttarakhand has a number of trekking trails which attract trekkers from all over the country and world. The best part about these trekking trails is that they are still untouched by the evils of mass tourism and are ideal to visit if you wish for a quiet and peaceful trekking experience.

The trek to the Khatling Glacier begins at the Ghutu village and takes you through a beautiful route laced with alpine trees, lush green meadows, beautiful forests etc. You will also come across some interesting Hindu temples before you reach the Khatling cave.

From the Khatling cave, you will have to walk to the Khatling Glacier which allows you to have a spectacular view of the surroundings. This place is perfect for camping and will make you want to stay a few days here. Moving on ahead, you will reach Chowki, which also offers some splendid scenic beauty. On ascending a few feet more, you will reach the Masartal which allows you a breathtaking view of mountains such as the Jaonli, Thalay Sagar, Bharte Khunta and Kirti Stambh.

The peaceful atmosphere and serenity of the region make the trekking experience simply wonderful. A trekking experience in the Garhwal region is something you can never forget. The Garhwal region has some of the best trekking trails in India which make it a favourite haunt of trekkers from all over the world. Besides the natural beauty, you also get to learn more about the lives, cultures and traditions of this region which is held in high regard due to its religious significance.

Best Season: May - October
Difficulty Level: Medium
Max. Elevation: 4200 m

Camping in Shimla is the most ideal approach to have the enterprise in the lap of the nature. Wilderness Livinn Camps and Retreat is a 2 star property, situated at 42.3 kms from Shimla Railway Station and 42.3 kms from Railway Station Bus Stop. The tents are delegated with all including an appended tiled restroom with shower head and 24-hour hot and cool water.

Each house is furnished with normal light from day break to nightfall and offers its own particular interesting perspective of the valley. All cabins have wooden roofs and are all around outfitted. If it's not too much trouble take note of that room warmers are given at an additional expense. For eating, one can utilize the kitchenette to investigate ones culinary abilities or request from the in-house kitchen.

Amenities: Swiss tents, Dining hall and conference room, attached tiled bathroom with 24 hours hot & cold showers

Activities:  Rock climbing, Rappelling, Trekking, Valley crossing, Tarzan swing, Artificial wall climbing, Nature walk in the jungle, Play Cricket, Volleyball, Basket ball, Badminton, Chess, Carom, Cards

Price: Rs 5000 to 8500

Approx distance from Shimla: 285.5 KM

Tara Devi Temple located in Shimla is definitely one of the most popular tourist attractions here. Origin of the temple can be traced way back to some 250 years. Even today, the temple stands in complete splendor at the top of the hill. It is believed that the Goddess Tara was brought here all the way from the West Bengal.

Location: It is situated at a distance of about 11 kms from Shimla and can be visited while travelling on the Kalka - Shimla National Highway. The temple is set at the top of the hill in Shimla with lush green environs surrounding it giving the restaurant a very peaceful as well as tranquil atmosphere.

Highlights: Visit the temple to browse through the breath taking views of the countryside. If you enjoy the Himalayas and the clean and fresh air, this is definitely your ideal vacation option.

Price: Entry is free.

For people who love to trek, Beas Kund is one of the most amazing places for it. If you are planning for trekking in Manali, add this place to your list, it will surely bring you close to nature. If you always wanted to enjoy the Himalayan trek, this is the shortest and ideal trek.

Location: It is quite close to some of the most popular locales of Manali. Solang Valley is at a distance of 14 km from the place which will take you around 8-9 hours to reach there.

Highlights: Beas Kund is located at a spectacular place and it gives a great view of the Pir Panjal ranges. After a while of climbing on to the place, you reach to the origin of Beas lake which truly feels magical because it is a glacial lake with melting snow.

Best time to visit: Avoiding the rainy season, you can visit the place anytime of the year you desire.

Although this place is meant for all those who hold deep religious beliefs, most of the people visit the place just because they admire beautiful architecture.

Location: The cave is located at approximately 5 km from the town of Manali. The place it is situated is Naggar and has most of the tourist attractions in close proximity. You will also find the Kunt Bhaya lake and the temple at just 2 km from here.

Highlights: You will love to see the beautiful sight of the snow capped mountains from the place. This site was built during the famous era of Mahabharata. The natural beauty of the cave is very exhilarating and the ambience makes you feel really good.

Best time to visit: It is best to visit the place early in the morning as it gets dark quite soon. You might also consider wearing woolen clothes to the place because it can sometimes get too cold.

It is an 800 year old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva of the Hindu religion. The Gauri Shankar temple is built in a Shikhara style architecture which makes it quite popular among the various tourists that visit the place.

Location: The temple is located in the Naggar Castle road where you will also find other major attractions of the city. It can be easily reached through a small trek through the famous Naggar Castle.

Highlights: It is quite popular for all those who have religious beliefs and are Nirvana seekers. The architecture is something many people love about the temple.

Best time to visit: The temple is open from 5 in the morning to 12 in the noon and then it opens again at 4 in the evening till 9 in the night. So you can visit the temple on the given timings.

Price: There is no entry fee for getting into the temple.

Jakhoo Hill is the highest point of the city. It is covered with the Alpine trees. On the top of the flat hill is the colourful Jakhoo Temple as well as the newly built Hanuman statue. Said to be the favorite escape for the visitors who enjoy calm and peace, you just need to be beware of the criminal minded monkeys who are ready to rob food from the visitors.

Location: In order to reach the hill top, you’ll have to walk for approximately 30 minutes. Thereafter, there is a pleasant route that will direct you to the Jakhoo Hill.

Highlights: The summit of Jakhoo Hill Shimla is some 2,455m and about 200m higher than the central ridge of Shimla. Temple at the Jakhoo Hill is dedicated to the Lord Hanuman who is believed to be the Hindu monkey god. Monkeys clearly rule the Jakhoo hill.

Best Time: Ideal to visit during winter months of November to March. Open Daily!

Camping in Shimla has ended up fascination for a large portion of the people groups who affection to do outdoors. Its opportunity to bring some grin all over so simply take a full breath and gather your packs for enterprise outdoors close Shimla.The Redwood camps are arranged in junga close Shimla which is only 150 kms from Chandigarh and 300 Kms from Delhi. Shimla is the best slope station where one can appreciate snow fall toward the beginning of October.

We as a whole have our minutes, cheerful minutes, when everything appears to be pretty much as it seems to be, immaculate, divine as one with nature and our each full breath. What's more, such minutes wait to our souls everlastingly, grinning, reverberating as we advance through the nonsense of working, living working. Only one such minute is 'Camp Redwoods'! Waiting, grinning and upbeat to be there.

Amenities:  Accommodation, All meals during the stay, Bonfire with light music. Toilets with flush and running water, Buffet meals in a large dining area.

Activities: Bonfire and Barbeque, Rock climbing, Rappelling, Valley crossing, etc. Trek to the Waterfall/Forest walk, Volleyball, Rugby, Badminton, etc.

Price: Rs 2000 to 3500

Approx distance from Shimla: 50.8 KM

The Milam Glacier is one of the major glaciers in the Kumaon region. It is situated in Munsiyari of Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. The elevation of the glacier ranges from 5500 metres to 3870 metres and is located at a distance of 15 km from Nanda Devi. The glacier was closed for trekking in 1962, but was reopened in 1994.

The best time to visit the Milam glacier is before the monsoons i.e. from mid-March to May. The monsoons set in June, which triggers landslides and roadblocks, making the area dangerous for any expedition.

The trekking trail to the Milam glacier starts at Munsiyari. You can enjoy breathtaking views of the Kumaon region and pass through places such as Nanda Devi East Base, Gauri Ganga Lilam, Martoli, Railkot, etc. on your way to the glacier. The glacier originates from the eastern slope of Trishuli and the southern slope of Kohli. The village of Milam is situated near the snout of the glacier. The trek to the Milam glacier is one of the best trails for trekking in India.

The Milam glacier has an altitude of 4268 metres and is surrounded by 52 peaks. The Milam glacier serves as an axial point for high altitude treks in India. The entire distance is covered by walking along the banks of the River Gori Ganga. You will pass through dense forests with blooming rhododendrons, chestnut trees, lush green conifers etc.

The trekking trail takes you past the Nanda Devi and Hardeol peaks. You will also come across the Ragash Kund, a shepherd shelter and a pond. The trek is a slightly difficult and will test your physical fitness and strength as you gain altitude. The best part of the journey is that you get to view the best of Himalayan beauty amidst majestic mountains and gurgling waters.

Best Season: May - September
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Max. Elevation: 4268 m
Best Deals on Milam Glacier Tour

The Pindari Glacier trek is a relatively easy trekking trail. The Pindari glacier is situated between the Nanda Kot and Nanda Devi peaks and is a major destination for tourists and high altitude trekking in India. The pristine white glacier measures 3.2 km in length and 1.5 km in width and has gigantic mountains in its background.

The Pindari glacier trek is a must-do activity for all those who wish to experience nature very closely without compromising on peace and tranquility. The journey to the Pindari glacier begins at Nainital and goes on to Lahorekhet. Usually, night camps are set up and the evening is spent in these camps. On your way to the Pindari glacier, you will also come across Dhakuri, which is a place of great scenic splendour.

On moving ahead from Dhakuri, you come to the Khati village, which is the largest village in the region. Situated on the banks of the River Pinder, the village serves as a perfect spot for a night halt. From Khati you will need to trek another 11 kms to reach Dwali. Dwali has beautiful surroundings to offer and you can relish the beauty of the place as you trek on ahead to Phurkia, situated about 6 kms away.

Pindari glacier is situated at a distance of about 17 kms from Dwali. The vista opens into a beautiful view as you reach the Pindari glacier. Your efforts are paid off with the panoramic view of the surroundings that the Pindari Glacier offers you.

Best Season: March - October
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Max. Elevation: 3627 m

Annandale is a flat terrain in Shimla that has been developed as the playground of the city. The ground is used to play cricket. Several other sports like Golf and Polo are also played here. Picnics too are organized here. The ground here is famous since the British rule. Britishers used to play sports like racing, cricket and polo here. Entertainment activities too were organized during these times.



Location: Annandale is situated about 3 kilometers away from the Ridge. Private taxis as well as buses can help you reach Annandale.

Highlights: Annandale is a very beautiful spot that gives away a picturesque view of the Shimla city along with its surroundings. The area here is covered with beautiful deodar trees, oak trees, etc. It falls under the authority of the Indian army.

Best Time: The Annandale is open all round the year. Ground has all the facilities available that may be needed by the visitors.

The clear waters of the Chadwick Waterfall cascade deep down a gorge at a height of approximately 86 m. What amplifies the beauty of the place is the surrounding hills as well as the thick green trees of Pine and Deodar. After you have had a hectic travel schedule exploring the entire Shimla, you can come back here and unwind. This place will give you ample ‘me’ time.
  
Location: Chadwick Waterfall is situated within the dense and the very beautiful Glen Forest. This waterfall lies at a distance of about 7 km from Shimla and about 4 km from Summer Hill.

Highlights: The place was originally famous as the ‘Chidku Jhaar’ where Jhaar stands for waterfall and in the local dialet ‘Chidku’ means the bird. It is so called because the waterfall is at such a height that only a bird can reach to the top. Britishers gave it the name ‘Chadwick Falls’.

Best Time: Can be visited anytime of the year but it is advised to go there in a group.

The Ridge of Shimla is known for organizing several government functions and fairs. It is the key venue for all the major events as well as celebrations that take place here in Shimla. Summer Festival that is the most famous festival is held here at the Ridge.

Location: The Ridge of Shimla is an extremely famous tourist attraction that is set in the heart of Shimla. It is situated along the Mall Road that is the famous shopping center of Shimla.

Highlights: The Ridge of Shimla is the hub of all the cultural activities of Shimla. Some of the prominent place of Shimla such as the Lakkar Bazaar, Mall, Scandal Point, Jakhoo hill, etc is in close proximity to the Ridge.

Best time: Open all round the year but since the Summer Festival is held during the months of April or May, one can plan a visit during these months.

The 2 feet 6 inches narrow gauge that takes the trains through the mountainous stations from Kalka to Shimla has a lot of admirers all over India. Thus Kalka- Shimla Railway secures its place intact among travelers of Himachal Pradesh. The relishing views of the hills and valleys of Himachal Pradesh seem to be more charming while you make a journey in one of the trains along this railway track. It was built in 1898 to connect Shimla with other parts and it is recorded that during the construction of this system, there were 107 tunnels and 864 bridges through the course of the track as well. Though the system is years old, it emerges out to surprise the visitors of Himachal still.

Being a combination of the conventional and contemporary Tibetan architecture, the Tibetan Museum in Mcleodganj is very unique. Located inside the Tsuglagkhang complex, the museum walls have a gentle yellow and white colour scheme that adds on to its quaint beauty. 

It is a platform where one can observe and be in awe of the Tibetan historical documents, manuscripts, Thangka images, pottery and other handicraft items. Besides that there are also photographs, interviews and video records that explain and file the Chinese intervention in Tibet and the consequent migration of Tibetans. If you are admirers of art and are also fascinated by history then you could purchase paintings, artefacts and handicrafts from the Museum shops as souvenirs.

Timings: - Open from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Shimla State Museum is housed in an old Victorian mansion. It has been designed carefully to adapt it to the museum.

Location: The museum is set on a lonely hilltop known as ‘Inveram.’

Highlights: The Shimla State Museum is a residence of Indian government officials. Opened on January 26, 1974, the museum is used to collect as well as preserve the ancient artistic, historical, archaeological and ethnological human works for ensuring access to the future generations.

Price: The entry fee for the Indians is 20 INR and for the foreigners is 100 INR. Fee on camera is also levied. Indians will have to 50 INR surplus for carrying the camera and the foreigners will have to pay 100 INR surplus for carrying camera. Research scholars too will have to pay 100 INR for carrying camera.

Best Time: The ideal time to visit the Shimla State Museum is between 10a.m. to 5.p.m. Museum remains closed on all Mondays and other Gazetted holidays.

It is one of the most beautiful spots in the Naggar region of Manali. Most people hadn't discovered the spot until recently but it truly is a hidden gem of the place. There is an old wooden bridge that overlooks the beautiful falls.

Location: It is located in the Naggar area. Travelling to the place is quite easy and any public transport can quickly get you there.

Highlights: The falls are beautifully surrounded by deodar and pine trees. You will also find a lot of apple orchards in the nearby region and the most stunning view is of the snow capped Himalayan peaks. It is a great picnic spot for people who are on a visit to Manali.

Best time to visit: The place is open from 6am to 6pm and is open on all the days. So if you are planning a trip to the place, make sure you go within the given timings.

If you love to see different kinds of art pieces and paintings, Naggar Castle is the place you would want to visit. It is one of the finest destinations in Manali where you can spot beautiful paintings, coasters and artifacts.

Location: The Castle is located at the Naggar town in Manali which is quite famous for the various tourist attractions in and around the place.

Highlight: It is an art lover's delight. Anyone who loves to visit art galleries and painting exhibitions will find Naggar Castle to be a really interesting place. The place is also built into a heritage hotel which is maintained by Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation. One of the famous songs from the movie Jab we met was shot here.

Best time to visit: The Castle stays open on all days from 7am to 10om which is almost the whole day so you can visit it at your own convenience.

The Padam Darchcha Valley trek is an exhilarating experience. The trek involves a long trek from Darcha which is situated in the beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh to Padam, located in the mystical land of Zansak. Besides the thrill and excitement of trekking in the snowy slopes of the Himalayas, the trekking trail allows you to enjoy the beauty of the initial trail from Manali to Leh.

You can visit interesting Hindu temples in Manali which speak volumes about the history, culture and traditions of the region. This trek is a beautiful combination of adventure and sight-seeing and hence can be called one of the most exciting experiences of trekking in India.

The trek begins at Chalang Tokpa, from where you will move on to Ramjak and Chumikanakpo. The trek from Ramjak to Chumikanakpo will give you a fabulous trekking experience by testing your strength and skills. From here you will move on to Lakong and pass through Kurgiak and Purne before reaching Padam, Leh. The most interesting change that you will notice on reaching the destination is the transformation of the landscape.

Best Season: June - September
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Max. Elevation: 5080 m

Why to visit in winters – Surrounded by woodlands and thick forest, tourists would love to visit this place, Narkanda is one of the best places to visit in Himachal in winters. This popular winter destination is famous for winter skiing

What to do – Touch the Hatu peak, or go skiing on the mountains, take a break for Tannu Jubbar lake picnic or eat some fresh apples from stokes farm

What to see – Watch the mountains and relax get immersed in the serenity of Mahamaya temple, shop at the city shopping for buying some pattoo or Himachal shawls and eat the local Narkanda cuisine at Negi dhaba

Shimla is a dwelling place for excitement,  Camp little Heart Resort, is an isolated and hidden Wild side nature camp for camping in Shimla. The charming sound of the blowing icy air echoes in the valley and outdoors around such an astonishing characteristic surroundings is a lifetime involvement in itself. As the range has Bhalawag wilderness, Shimla on both sides, a great assortment of uncommon himalayan winged creatures can be seen.

Nighttimes at campground are sentimental, thrilling and energizing. The starlit sky, outline of the mountains, blowing sound of the air and gleaming of bon-flame, this is an extraordinary approach to investigate the outside as it is comprised of some outstanding things to do in Shimla !

Amenities:  Stay in tents with proper bedding, Neat and hygienic indian/western, Toilets with flush and running water, Buffet meals in a large dining area.

Activities: Bonfire and Barbeque, Rock climbing, Rappelling, Valley crossing, etc.Trek to the Waterfall/Forest walk, Volleyball, Rugby, Badminton, etc.

Price: Rs 3000 to 4000

Approx distance from Shimla: 40.7 KM

Do Check: Thrilling places to visit in Shimla !

The Vashist temple in Manali is dedicated to the sage Vashist who was the Kula guru of Lord Rama across the river Beas. This temple is said to be at least 4000 years old which is the reason it attracts so many visitors to the place.

Location: It is located in the Vashist village in Manali. The place is at 3.5 km from the Manali bus station through where you will find busses for all around Manali.

Highlights: The hot water springs in the region is one of the major tourist attractions of the place. Many people also believe that this hot water springs have a medicinal value which can provide as an ailment to many diseases.

Best time to visit: Although the temple is open on all the days, you can visit the temple from 7 am in to morning to 9 pm in the night. For taking a bath, the place is open for 7 am to 1 pm and then from 2 pm to 9 pm.

Formerly the house of the British Viceroy of India, Rashtrapati Niwas in Himachal Pradesh is also known as Viceregal Lodge. It is situated on the Observatory Hills of Shimla. If you are curious to know what makes it still relevant is the huge collections of articles and artifacts dating back to the British regime in India. It was built by Henry Irwin and the peculiarity it boasts of is its architectural style that is the mighty Jacobean style of construction. The construction of the building was extended up to eight years to finish. The President of India, stays there during the yearly visit to the location and later it was turned to become the Indian Institute for Advanced Studies where Humanities, arts and literature subjects, social science subjects and natural and life science subjects are the areas of study.

Bara Lacha Pass is the connecting link between Lahaul in Himachal to Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir located in the Zanskar Range. It is one of the most beautiful passes in the world, at a height of 4890 meters above sea level with the views of alluring Bhaga River near to it. The trips to Ladakh, be it trekking or riding, ever one will go through this predominant pass in the region as it poses ample challenge during the journey and adventure is something unusually common here. During winter, the pass will be blanketed by the thick snow arranging the superb sights ever. Also, the meadows and glacial rivers in the surroundings have a lot to contribute to enhance the whole beauty of the pass.

Popular for being the sanctuary of The Dalai Lama, the Tsug la Khang is the core essence of Mcleodganj. It comprises the Namgyal Monastery and also several shrine rooms in its compound. There are statues of Buddha, Chenrezig and Guru Rinpoche in these shrines.

 If you are an art lover then you should surely go there and admire this splendid art work. The Dalai Lama’s dwelling and administrative offices are adjoining to the monastery. Ling Khor, is a meditation trail close to Tsug La Khang, you will come across small shrines, stupas and also a gigantic chorten while treading this route. Visiting Tsug la Khang is one of the most important things to do in Mcleodganj.  

Timings- Open from 6 AM to 7 PM

Shimla is an ideal destination, a destination for family as well as for friends, It has number of thrilling things to do and If you are going for camping in Shimla at that point Snow Trails Camp is something that everybody must check once. Campground is arranged at an elevation of 2250 mtrs. above ocean level on Kufri-Chail Road. This is a veritable heaven enriched with incredible common excellence encompassed by elevated snow topped tops and thick backwoods of deodar and oaks.

We have corroded yet agreeable convenience with twin slept with swiss tents, cabins connected with toilets with legitimate running hot and frosty water with a sit out varandah. Investigate the everlasting characteristic magnificence and entrancing society of Himalayas with Snow Trails Eco camps at koti, Neen. You can select Shimla camping packages for Snow Trails Camp from their website. 

Amenities:  Accommodation, All meals during the stay, Bonfire with light music.

Activities: Hiking and Trekking, Rock Climbing, Flying Fox, Obstacle Course, Team Building Games, Burma Bridge.

Price: Rs 2500 to 4000

Approx distance from Shimla: 48.1 KM

Also check: Places that shouldn't be missed to visit in Shimla !

It was Lord Curzon’s initiative which led to the discovery of the trekking trail to Kuari Pass. The Kuari peak stands at an altitude of 4,264 metres and can be reached through a trekking trail that starts from Joshimath. The region has some of the grandest mountains of the Himalayan range namely, the Kamet (7756 m), the Chaukhamba (7128 m), the Trishul (7120 m), the Nanda Devi (7817 m) and the Nanda Devi East (7434 m).

The Kuari Pass trek gives you the wonderful opportunity to enjoy breath-taking views of these mountains. This trekking trail is comparatively quite easy as compared to other trails for high altitude trekking in India.

The trek begins at Joshimath in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand. The Chamoli district is of great religious importance for Hindus in the country due to the Panch Prayag which is formed by the confluences of the Rivers Nandakini, Pinder, Kaliganga, Dhauli Ganga and Birehiganga.

The trail will take you through quaint little Himalayan villages which offer magnificent views of the Himalayas and a sneak peek into the life of the locals. During these walks, you can get to know more about the culture and traditions of the people here. The path is lined with trees in a beautiful hue of yellow and orange under a clear blue sky with cotton candy clouds forming interesting shapes.

The snow-capped mountain peaks stay by your side all along amazing you with their majestic and intimidating sizes. You will also pass through oak and deodar forests during this trek, which is pure delight to the senses. These jungles are rich in flora and fauna and you can spot fiery red flowers on rhododendrons.

You also get to walk through Himalayan meadows called Bugyals which offer the best view of the Himalayan beauty. The best of the Bugyals is the Gorson Bugyal. You will visit Auli, which is best known for its winter skiing slopes. Your trekking trail will take you to the Vinayak Pass and the Tali peak, from where you can get a panoramic view of the valley below. On reaching the highest point of the trek i.e. the Kuari peak which stands at an elevation of 13, 990 feet, you are rewarded with a mesmerising view of the majestic peaks of the Himalayas.

Best Season: December - January
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Max. Elevation: 4,264 m

At the convergence of two famous roads, the Ridge and the Mall Road in Shimla is the famous Scandal Point, to the western edge of the convergent point. There are multitudes of stories existing related to the birth of this Scandal Point, dating back to the British regime. One story says that the Maharaja of Patiala, Bhupinder Singh eloped with the daughter of the British Viceroy after meeting at the Scandal Point and thus it got this intriguing name and another set of tales shows that the Maharaja kidnapped young women from Scandal Point. Regardless the umpteen number of stories, this square overlooking the paradisiacal location has ample features to be on the top of the best sightseeing places in Himachal Pradesh’s list.