The northern state of Himachal Pradesh in India is an ideal tourist spot with natural beauty and culture. This region is home to several picturesque tourist places, all different and spell-binding.
Its tourist spots are nestled within the lap of the magnificent Himalayas. Whether one’s interest lies in discovering the beautiful colonial town of Shimla, visiting the Dalai Lama and the spiritual haven of Dharamshala, playing in the outdoor paradise of Manali, or taking refuge in the tranquil village of Parvati Valley.
Also, read the best time to visit Himachal Pradesh
Let’s proceed to introduce you to the magnificent 20 tourist places in Himachal Pradesh with their captivating charm, so you can make up your mind to visit this wonderful state.
1. Shimla
2. Manali
3. Dharamshala
4. McLeod Ganj
5. Kullu
6. Solang Valley
7. Kasol
8. Spiti Valley
9. Chamba
10. Dalhousie
11. Khajjiar
12. Bir Billing
13. Kinnaur
14. Lahaul
15. Mandi
16. Chitkul
17. Manikaran
18. Great Himalayan National Park
19. Kufri
20. Barot
1. Shimla
One of the most renowned tourist resorts in Himachal Pradesh, India is Shimla which is often referred to as the ‘Queen of Hills’.
Shimla is a picturesque town nestling in the foothills of the Himalayas which reflects the British era with its magnificent natural beauty. This is particularly true for hot summers when people seek relief from the plains’ blast furnace heat in the city’s cool and refreshing climate.
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The heritage of Shimla town is another attraction for tourists, which comprises such as historic structures like the Ridge, Mall Road, and Viceregal Lodge. Below, stands the hilltop-perched Jakhoo Temple with sweeping vistas of the city.
This is a famous tourist place in Himachal Pradesh. To begin with, Shimla is the door through which other places come by where one can indulge themselves in trekking, paragliding, or even get engaged in skying in locations such as Kufri and Solang Valley.
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It also has a UNESCO World Heritage Site—the Toy Train—which gives an incredible journey through picturesque locations. Whatever your preferences, be they history, nature, or adventure, I assure you that by visiting Shimla which is in Himachal Pradesh, no trip would be complete without this place.
2. Manali
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Manali is a popular destination amongst those seeking respite in the enchanting mountain range, Himalayas, in Himachal Pradesh. Nestled at a height of 2,050 m, it offers breathtaking beauty, exhilaration, and tradition.
Manali is just a little distance from the Rohtang Pass which leads to breathtaking mountain landscapes with snow-capped peaks and lush fields. In addition, visitors can explore other thrilling activities such as trekking, river rafting, and paragliding.
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Famous among tourists is the old quarter of Manali known as Old Manali with its lively cafe scenes, bustling bazaars, and a general bohemia. You can interact with the local people and get a taste of Himachali cuisine at these places.
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The place is notable because it houses both Manu temple and Hadimba temple for devotees seeking solace. Needless to say, no tourist will remain indifferent to this place, because there are plenty of attractions for everyone in Manali.
3. Dharamshala
Tourists are fascinated by the city of Dharamsala which unfolds its rich array of cultural, and spiritual life among the serene hills surrounding Himalcahla Pradesh, a blended heritage of Tibetans, spirituality & scenic beauty.
The town is idyllic, as it has hosted the Dalai Lama since his teenage years who brought peace and vision to the whole town. Here's a brief overview of what Dharamshala has to offer for tourists:
This town is separated into two areas; upper and lower with the McLeod Ganj on the upper side which can be termed a control center for the refugee Tibetans.
This is the must-visit place in Himachal Pradesh. Visiting here, one can take a walk around in the monastery draped by the prayer flags, enjoy the vibrant markets, and immerse oneself in the traditional culture that is deeply grounded Some of these attractions are, firstly, Namgyal Monastery and secondly, Tsuglagkhang complex with the Dalai Lama temple.
The beauty of a Dhauladar mountain valley is framed by lush green forest, which circles around the town. From Dharamkot there are trials towards Triund and to Kareri Lake where travelers find refugees from cities buzzing.
One can visit the Kangra Art Museum and the War Memorial to learn about the region’s history and culture. However, some artifacts and artwork can be found within this museum about the culture and history of this region called Himachal
Several restaurants exist in Dharamshala, offering a variety of Tibetan and international cuisine. Taste Momos, Thukpa, and Butter Tea. In addition, one could buy Tibetan handicrafts or souvenirs like prayer flags at the local markets.
4. McLeod Ganj
This unique location is situated in Himachal Pradesh, India near McLeod Ganj. This is referred to as “little Lhasa” since it is where the mainstream Tibetan Diaspora resides.
For this reason, there are many Tibetans in this area as a result of expulsion from their native land. The most well-known person living in McLeod Ganj is the Dalai lama who is the spiritual leader of Tibet.
Foremost, many people visit McLeod Ganj to get the taste and feel of Tibetan traditions. There are prayer flags that are very colorful that you will come across.
People are friendly here; you should taste authentic Tibetan dishes, Momos, and Thokpa.
McLeod Ganj’s natural beauty also takes one’s breath away. You may take peaceful hiking in this mountainous area where fresh mountain air is abundant.
Indeed, this little town provides great conditions for relaxing and unwinding. McLeod Ganj is a great place for a peaceful and cultured vacation.
5. Kullu
Kullu is really a wonderful place in Himachal Pradesh. It’s a lovely valley nestled between high green mountains and makes an ideal spot for nature lovers.
The valley has a long history that includes many old temples, and as such it is known by the name ‘’Valley of the Gods’’.
The culture in Kullu is another thing that makes it popular. Festivals are celebrated in this place with great excitement.
The most common festival is Kullu Dussehra which runs for up to ten days. The valley springs into life as it is awash by colorful processions of music and dance.
This is one of the famous tourist places in Himachal Pradesh. KULLU is Adventurists’ paradise. You can try exciting adventure sports like river rafting as the Beas River flows through this valley. You can walk on many interesting trails going through thick vegetation, allowing you to see the great mountain range –the Himalayas.
Shoppers often go to Kullu for its famous woven clothes and exquisite handicrafts. This charming valley offers its guests warm shawls, blankets, and unique souvenirs to take back home.
In the words of the author, there is always something to do in Kullu depending on whether one is an adventurer, a nature-loving person, or seeking some peace.
6. Solang Valley
The mesmerizing solace of Solang Valley, nestling in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. Here magic of nature meets with the excitement of adventures that attract all sorts of holidaymakers and adventurous people.
Solang Valley is well known, especially for its stunning natural appearance. It is a beautiful location set amid snowy peaks, green meadows, and a clean river valley view.
There are also several options for leisure activities such as panoramic viewing points at the Himalayas or tranquil nature walks.
If you are looking for an adrenalin rush, Solang Valley is your place. This is an adventure sports center with paragliding, zorbing, and horse riding among others.
In addition, you may wish to learn some skiing or snowboarding as this picturesque region transforms itself into a magnificent white wonderland in the winter.
You can see and feel the local traditions in the valley. Here, in these villages, you will find charming little food stalls that prepare tasty snacks of Himachali cuisines, and people are so warm and welcoming - they love talking about their history and traditions.
Nature lovers can take several trekking trails in Solang Valley. These trek routes lead from densely wooded forest, beside the bubbling Beas River, past secluded waterfalls. Foot explorers would love it here.
Solang Valley is scenic all through the year, but the peak season for a visit is during summer and winter. During the summer, the place is ideal for sightseeing and exploring, while in winter; snow sports become the craze of the place.
With many hotels and resorts in and around Solang Valley, it is also convenient for tourists to stay comfortably. There is also a small shop to buy souvenirs and local handicrafts.
7. Kasol
It is located at a higher altitude and is a nice village located within the Parvati valley close to river Parbati in the northern part of India. Many nature lovers and other backpackers are known to go to it during different walks.
It has an enchanting view which would befit an ideal countryside. This short explanation speaks well of our puzzle about Kasol.
First of all, this resort town enjoys a picturesque location. This is indeed a lovely hill-felling village surrounded by green hillocks with gentle waters of the Parvati River flowing through it. Its air is clean, and its views are gorgeous.
As a result, its beauty is known worldwide and draws visitors seeking comfort from within in nature’s tranquility.
Also, Kasol is a key stopover point for trekkers and adventurers. This, for instance, includes the famous Kheerganaga Trek and Tosh Valley Trek. It provides a chance to have a view of the hot spring water Himalayan landscape together with its vast wood. It’s perfect for the hiker or nature lover.
Lastly, in Kasol are wonderful local cultures. These include natives and visitors who come from other parts or even from other countries.
The result of such confluences is a plethora of cafes, eateries, and shops selling assorted delicacies and pleasures. From there you will get Israeli, Italian, and Indian dishes; it is a food lover’s delight.
Finally, it is a place of rest and renewal of power. Similarly, you can keep yourself vibrant by lodging in low-cost homes such as guest houses and campsites that provide serene grounds. River Place is good for meditation and studies.
8. Spiti Valley
Spiti Valley, which is a very attractive place located in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, is one of those places where few people visit but once they have been there, they never forget it.
Being a backyard of majestic Himalayan peaks, this high-altitude desert region has become a home for nature lovers, avid trekkers, as well as those who want to follow unconventional paths. Therefore in this brief article, we shall look at why Spiti Valley should be visited.
The first reason is the amazing scenery of Spiti. The rugged mountains on either side of the valley make it an ideal destination for trekkers and mountaineers.
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It has dry hills, gorges, and clean rivers set against the verdure of Himachal’s green valleys. Photographers find this very picturesque as the Spiti River twists its way through the valley while the mountains in the background are heavily snowed.
It is not just about the mesmerizing landscape of Spiti, but its colorful culture as well. It is a Tibetan Buddhist area where gompas dot the valley floor. For example, the Ki Monastery and Tabo Monastery are architectural masterpieces that are spiritual centers providing an understanding of Buddhist culture in the area.
This is a famous tourist place in Himachal Pradesh. Visitors will experience spirituality and ritual in these monasteries adding to understanding the local lifestyle.
Spiti Valley is one of those few places in India, which continues to exist without the influence of mass tourism due to its extreme isolation and harsh climate. This, in turn, has ensured that it maintains its natural beauty and cultural integrity.
Travelers can find the unique beauty of the valley in the sense of remoteness from modern urban development, which enables them to unplug from a buzzing city life and to become one with nature and their inner self.
9. Chamba
Chamba which is also known as Chamber Town is a beautiful small town located in northern India Himachal Pradesh. It has a beautiful nature and there are many temples and cultural values all over the place.
This is a tourist town that flows on the river Ravi, where you can see the ancient history and traditions of this land.
The scenery of Chamba is unbelievable as it is surrounded by the Dhauladharand Pir Panjal ranges of the Himalayas. It is thus a perfect getaway for nature lovers and hikers with plenty of luxuriant valleys, clear streams, and thick forestry.
Several trekking trails in Chamba Valley like the Manimahesh Yatra attract pilgrims and adventure lovers.
Besides that, the town is known because of the state in which its temples have been preserved and other buildings typical of the Renaissance epoch.
One of the numerous works of art from the great Chamba traditions is the Lakshmi Narayan Temple constructed in the tenth century. Another remarkable destination is the Bhuri Singh Museum which contains invaluable relics of ancient sculpture, images, and miniature paintings reflecting the rich tradition of this city.
Chamba is lively in terms of culture and people here participate in different festivities. Such an event is an annual one where the people parade through the village with the Minjar Fair, engaging in other cultural activities.
The fair together with others such as the Sui Mata festival and Manimahesh Yatra offers tourists a feel of Dharamshala’s cultural practices.
10. Dalhousie
Dalhousie is a picturesque and serene hill station in Himachal Pradesh of northern India, renowned for its scenic environs, stylish architecture, and tranquility.
Dalhousie was named after the British Governor General of India, Lord Dalhousie who founded the town in 1854. The colonial legacy has continued to underlie the Victorian style of building, the churches, and the small cottages lined up in the town.
The town is reclined about 6000 – 9000 ft ASL and boasts spectacular views into the snow. It is wet, well-wooded, and has beautiful, cool, green hills that make it a favorite vacation retreat in the heat of Indian summer.
Dalhousie is a famous tourist place in Himachal Pradesh. It has many beautiful places like Bhakroti hills, Gandhi Chawk, Subash Chawk, and Khajarri (little Switzerland of India which looks just like the Alps).
There are plenty of trekking and camping options in Dalhousie as well as other opportunities for an outdoor adventure including cool summers.
The tranquility of the town together with the pleasantly warm weather conditions make it an excellent place to visit on a relaxing vacation away from the hustle and bustle of cities.
Nevertheless, Dalhousie looks like it was in some imaginary period full of natural density, colonial grace, and amazing panorama drawing tourists from all over the world to appreciate its landscape and tranquility.
11. Khajjiar
Khajjiar also known as the mini-Switzerland of India, is one of the enchanting hill stations situated in the Himachal Pradesh.
The town is based in the Chambar district with outstanding natural beauty and green vegetation surrounding it. Khaijjar is situated at about 6500 ft from sea level and is considered a famous tourist spot in the area.
Khajjiar’s large fresh green meadows provide beautiful backdrops coupled with a vista of tall deodars and snowcapped Himalayan peaks that make it a great tourist attraction.
The meadow in the middle of the town is sometimes called Khajjiar Lake which is similar to the word “lake” and therefore fits well into the description of a good place for an outing. Meanders add to the adventurous nature of the town where visitors can ride horseback, trek, or even zorb over the meadows.
The ancient temples of Khajji Nag Temple worshipping serpent god and Kalatop wildlife sanctuary also make Khajjiar famous.
The town provides an atmosphere of relaxation away from the busy city life. It is an ideal retreat for those who love natural environments and adventure due to the cool, refreshing climate.
Conclusively, Khajjiar’s breathtakingness, green meadows, and virgin scenery have been termed Mini Switzerland.
It is a site that blends nature, adrenaline, and inner peace with any vacationer who desires to visit one of Khajjiar and offers relaxation with nature alongside excitement for every type of traveler.
12. Bir Billing
Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India – small popular for paragliding globally. India’s Paragliding Capital is known worldwide for its scenery and paragliding!
The destination is made up of Bir and Billings as interlinked sites. Launching site Bir and terminal point about 14 km away at Billing.
The duration of paragliding flights from these sites is unlimited and it is also possible to fly over the beautiful Dhauladhar mountains.
This is a famous tourist place in Himachal Pradesh. Bir Billing has a good season of rain-free days that range mainly from October to June, which is the high season for paragliding.
Paragliding in the Himalayas is exhilaratingly safe; highs’ breezes are mild, skies crystalline…even for new coming to paragliding as well as veterans.” The place is naturally beautiful with green valleys and snow-crowned mountains.
Besides paragliding, Bir Billing has other things to do outdoors such as trekking, camping, and monasteries in Tibet. It is a calm area with good people who make it an ideal site to unwind and get nearer to Mother Nature.
However, if adventure is your game or nature, then Bir Billing should be your destination since it is located between two huge lakes.
13. Kinnaur
Kinnaur is a small and peaceful spot with beautiful surroundings that lies in the northern parts of India, within the Himachal Pradesh state.
It is associated with breathtaking landscapes that have green valleys and tall mountains. A hideaway of nature buffs and dedicated thrill hunters amidst the Himalayan folds.
One of the beautiful things that one can associate with this place is the apple orchards in Kinnaur. It is a renowned farming place of delicious apples.
The citizens also carry their orchards whose products provide economic input and add to the picturesque landscape. Besides apples, Kinnaur is known for its high-quality cherry and other fruits.
Kinnar people are very warm in their nature and it is a hospitable area with rich cultural life. It has to do with their involvement in various festivals, a cultural dance called ‘Nati’. The locals have very close connections with nature and they lead quite a simple eco-friendly life.
It is also an ideal location for daredevil tourists. These hard trails are typical for this region, and therefore trekkers and mountaineers like them.
The Baspa River is very clear, making fishing and angling ideal there. Overall, Kinnaur is the untapped gem of the Himalayas having a gorgeous landscape, history, and adventurous endeavors.
14. Lahaul
The fascinating area known as Lahaul is found in the picturesque Himachal Pradesh State in India. From the North of the state lies Lahaul with its breathtaking sceneries, clean rivers, and vibrant culture.
this is the famous tourist place in Himachal Pradesh. It forms a part of the wider Himachal Pradesh district popularly known as Lahaul and Spiti, and it can only be accessed through the impassible and snow-laden mountain track, the infamous Rohtang Pass during the winters.
The colorful culture in Lahaul blends these two heritages; that of both Hindus and Tibetans. Lahual inhabitants have a hospitable nature towards visitors and their culture is centered on agrarian practices, livestock rearing, and commerce.
You can also explore Uttarakhand and here is the list of amazing tourist places in Uttarakhand
Age-old monasteries dot the area, beyond being centers of worship they also house a substantial amount of Buddhist art and culture.
Lahaul is a place where tourists come to enjoy the scenery, visit the monasteries, go hiking, trekking, river rafting, and even camps.
Lahaul is a peaceful place with a rare combination of cultures; one should visit this for a real Himalayan adventure.
15. Mandi
The town of Mandi in Himachal Pradesh is truly serene and quiet with no chaos of any kind surrounding it. The scenic place is on the banks of the Beaus River and among greenlands around hilly terrains.
Due to the presence of many old temples and very active bazaars, it has earned this name and it is now referred to as ‘Varanasi of Hills’.
The city is well-established and steeped in history. The town boasts of having several ancient temples, which exhibited such talented and cultured times back then.
Mandi hosts several famous shrines like the lord shiva temple also called Bhutnath Mandi, and Trikounath Mandi temple among others The annual Shivaratri festival for people who live in this town is one significant thing.
It involves a huge number of people, and all of them participate in big processions and rites.
This is a famous tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh. Mandi is also a sacred place for those who love nature. There are lots of trekking as well as other outdoor activities within the surrounding mountain and valley which allows the tourist to view the pristine Himalayan scenery.
Mandi has another tourist attraction which is nearby Pandoh Dam that can also be used as a picnic site and site for water sports, thereby further adding to the recreational appeal of Mandi.
There is a vibrant market in Mandi that offers numerous handicrafts, woolen items, and indigenous foods as well. One who fancies calmness, the old Himachali culture should pay a visit to this town.
16. Chitkul
Perched atop the pure and verdant Himalayas lies Chitkul, an enchanting hamlet that inhabits the foothills of the state of Himachal Pradesh in India.
Chitkul is a village “next” to the Indo-Tibet border, otherwise referred to as the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibet border,” which means it is the final settlement in this area.
Chitkul’s idyllic location reflects on the natural landscape which boasts of the pure flow of river Baspa, hazy snow cap ranges, and verdant surroundings.
It is a paradise for nature lovers and tourists because of the calm atmosphere that enables people to enjoy the beautiful view on an annual basis.
The visitors can go for a walk along their immediate hiking trail and/or they can enjoy watching birds or just relax and be quiet in the village.
The culture in Chitkul has Tibetan roots, which are very strong and deep. Most of them are the Kinner whose lifestyle is different, and they have special clothes, architecture, and food.
Some cultures would greet visitors with warmth and hospitality in a way that would make it a memorable cultural experience for them. The potatoes at Chitkul, which are among the best in the world, are another reason why many visit this place.
Chitkur may not be accessible but there is a growing number of tourists who are seeking hidden beauty while avoiding the urban noise.
Nevertheless, one needs to be sensitive to the culture of the people and the environment of this jewel that is hidden deep within the Himalayas. Despite its remoteness, Chitkul is one of the most incredible places that should be visited by all the brave travelers out there.
17. Manikaran
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The picturesque and culturally important Manikarnam village is situated on the right bank of the river Parvati in Himachal Pradesh, India. Manikaran is also known for hot spring sites and pilgrimage beliefs.
It is a tourist and religious site that many regional people and people from other places visit. At an approximate height of 1,760 meters above sea level, this village is located within Parvati hills interspersed with trees, and green hilly landscape, and the river.
The hot springs in Manikaran have healing powers that derive their efficacy from the high mineral content in them. The tourists are Sikh and Hindu pilgrims using the holy hot springs.
One of the holiest sites for Sikhs is Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurudwara. At the gurdwara, the visitors have an opportunity to partake in a common meal known as langar which is offered for free without discrimination of religion thus promoting unity.
However, outside its religious aspect, Manikaran is a beautiful natural environment with walking, climbing, and adventurous sports in Parvati valleys.
Nevertheless, the village is famous for a set of unusual foods among them, “Chana madra” which brings in large crowds of visitors as far as one can go and back to enjoy the sceneries to motivate nature admirers and photographers.
18. Great Himalayan National Park
As a natural sanctuary, there is nothing more beautiful than the Great Himalayan National Park located in the state of Himachal Pradesh India.
It was established in 1984 covering a size of about 1,171.km square with many plant species and animals. For instance, in 2014 UNESCO ranked it among the world’s heritage sites appreciating its great ecological importance.
The park’s landscape is characterized by rugged mountains, thick woods, and meadows in the highlands as expected.
It is home to numerous Snow Leopards, an endangered species along with other rare types like; Himalayan brown bears, and many varieties of pheasants. Park’s plant life is also quite diverse, and here I am referring to Alpine flowers, conifers, and some medical herbs.
This diversity includes various plants and animals and thus provides an ideal situation for biodiversity protection and study.
Many adventure and trekking lovers come to the Great Himalayan National Park for the variety of trails it offers. Visitors are allowed to enter the Himalayan pristine wilderness and view white mountains, green valleys, and waterfalls.
Bird watching and photos are common among visitors who come here to capture the beauty of serenity in the park.
The preservation of its priceless resources such as the Himalayan ecosystem will only be realized through the great Himalayan National Park efforts. The Himla Park reflects amazing Indian diversification in environmental conservation and green tourism.
They have also the possibility to admire the charming peacefulness of the Himalayas which represent one of the most irreplaceable and unique cultural world’s assets.
19. Kufri
Located at a distance of about thirteen kilometers from the capital town of Himachal Pradesh, India, Kufri is a beautiful hill station near Himalayan foot-hills.
Kufri is well-known as a tranquil place with stunning scenery especially for people who want to get away from the fuss of city life.
Lying at an elevation of 2510 meters above sea level, that’s what I call a tiny town. It features rolling green meadows, thickly wooded forestry, and breathtaking hilltop views.
The scenic views of clean snow cover in the winter attract snow lovers to spend time at Kufri in winter. The city has a rich heritage due to its slopes and the opportunity to participate in ice skating, as well as toboggans.
There is also an opportunity for travelers to have scenic horse rides in pine-covered hills and add other dimensions of uniqueness offered by Kufri.
The Himalayan Nature Park in Kufri offers protection for species like the Himalayan Monal, yak, and even the elusive snow leopard.
It also provides an excellent chance for nature lovers and photographers to see them in their natural setting or partly natural environment. Besides, Mahasu Peak in Kufri is the highest point in that area where one can see amazing views around.
20. Barot
Barot is a beautiful yet unpopular village that comes deep into Himachal Pradesh in India.
This tranquil hamlet tucked in the peaceful vales of the beautiful Dhauladhar mountain range is a paradise for lovers of nature as well as adventurous activities.
This is because this village has got a very high altitude rising about six thousand feet above the levels seas thus escaping the busy city lives.
Barot has a beautiful natural environment that describes it as a unique feature. These are verdant forests, shining rivers, and icy mountains that encircle the city. Angling and trout fishing are great in the area as well by the Ulh River.
The pristine trails in the surrounding hills provide a perfect place for trekkers and hikers as outdoor activities. The area has different wild animals and is the best place to watch out for birds.
Barot is famous for its apple orchards and villagers mostly indulge in gardening as well as other forms of old-style agrarian practices.
This is a simple gesture, yet very appealing because it shows how welcoming the locals are especially to their visitors. Cozy guesthouses and homestays provide accommodation in the village for travelers willing to plunge into the lifestyle of old times.
Recently, Barot has become a fashionable holiday in the sense of wilderness tourism, away from modern civilization people who are looking for their soul in nature.
Himachal Pradesh has this village that is really wonderful as it provides an escape from routine for any visitor seeking serenity and marvels of Himachal Pradesh.
Conclusion
So all 20 places in Himachal Pradesh are famous tourist places. If you want to know more about Uttarakhand. click here
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