‘Him Ka Aanchal’, that is, a veil of snow. A pertinent description of Himachal Pradesh. This beautiful destination has a lot of gems in its urn that offers a magnificent experience to whosoever visits to this paradise. Being in a hilly terrain, it is not possible to reach all places in Himachal by train or airplane, but thanks to the government of Himachal Pradesh, roads here are aptly maintained and are in good condition, making road trips by car to Himachal a convenient option. Top 10 places to visit by car are:
Capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is one the most visited place. Going here by road gives you an ethereal view on its way of river Beas on one side and lush green mountains on the other side. It is an ideal place to go with family and friends. City offers all facilities one requires, be it an ATMs, mobile connectivity, comfortable stay and well-equipped guidance, via GPS, to all its tourist places.
Distance from Delhi: 345 km
Best Time to Visit​: May to July and October to January
Lofty mountains, pine trees, sprawling meadows; this all you will see while going by car to Manali. This town is popular for its resorts, one of best in Himachal Pradesh. Manali is also a famous destination for Honeymooners. Having exquisite sites to pay a visit in town and to its nearby places, a tour by car gives a privilege to the tourists.
Distance from Delhi: 540 km
Best Time to Visit: March to July, to witness pleasant climate and November to January to enjoy snow.
This hill station is not too far from Shimla. Just 45 km away. A weekend getaway from the northern plains. Chail, could be popularly known to many from the movie, 3 idiots. To experience the warmth and beauty of nature, tourists come here along with their close ones.
Chail wildlife sanctuary has multifarious species of flora and fauna. Flying squirrels, sambar and langur are few from the many wildlife animals which are found in the sanctuary.
Distance from Delhi: 400 km
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Famous for its waterfalls, Satdhara and Panjpula, Dalhousie is another tourist’s destination in the lap of Himachal Pradesh. Named after Lord Dalhousie, this hill station was a favorite place of our great freedom fighter, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. The town has influence of colonial rule which could be seen in façade architecture of St. Patrick's Church.
Distance from Delhi: 562 km
Best Time to Visit: March to June
A wanderlust destination, Spiti valley is out of this world, spellbinds you with its uncanny natural beauty and rich Tibetian culture. Rudyard Kipling, a famous author has designated Spiti ‘a world out of the world’. Vast unending mountain ranges underneath a crisp clear sky are simply breathtaking to gaze at. Spiti valley could be reached via Shimla or Manali.
Distance from Delhi: 747 km
Best Time to Visit: May to July
It is a backpacker’s destination because of the famous treks in its vicinity, Malana and Kheerganga. Nestled in Parvati valley, this beautiful tiny hamlet is a renowned tourist’s destination. It is well known for its Israeli tourist footfall. Thus, named as Mini Israel. Due to this, one could relish Israeli cuisine in the village. The best route to reach Kasol by road is by NH44.
Distance from Delhi: 531 km
Best Time to Visit: March to September.
Declared as the 2nd Capital of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala is a promising tourist destination. It lies in the upper region of Kangra district. Popularly called as ‘little Lhasa of India’ as it a residence of many exiled Tibetan monks.
Dharamshala is divided into two parts, the upper one is called as Mcleodganj and the lower part is Dharamshala town. To travel to this beautiful town by car, go via NH44 and NH503.
Distance from Delhi: 470 km
Best Time to Visit: March to mid of July
Hub of adventurous and thrilling activities Bir Billing is just around 4 hours from Shimla. Among many sports you may do, paragliding is the most popular one. Just to add to your information, that in 2015 paragliding world cup was held in Bir Billing. So, do plan it with your family a day to the place to enjoy the thrill and scenic beauty around it.
Distance from Delhi: 530 km
Best Time to Visit: April to mid of June
Probably the nearest weekend getaway in Himachal Pradesh, Parwanoo lies on the Chandigarh-Shimla highway, shares its border with Panchkula district in Haryana. Popular for its quaint resort, Timber trail, it is an amicable location to enjoy scenic beauty. Not just family, but corporates in Delhi-NCR go to the hill station to give a treat to their employees and also to indulge in team building activities.
Distance from Delhi: 260 km
Best Time to Visit: Anytime of the year
Just hike around in Kasauli, admire the vintage feel of colonial era amidst unrivalled mountain ranges, sprawled with willow and other flora. Kasuali is basically a cantonment area set up by British in 19th century. Tourist visit the town due to its pleasant climate all around the year.
Distance from Delhi: 290 km via NH44
Best Time to Visit: Anytime of the year
