Himachal Pradesh is a beautiful state in northern India, known for its stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage.

From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the lush green forests and meadows, Himachal Pradesh is a paradise for nature lovers. In this article, we will explore some offbeat places you can visit in Himachal Pradesh, including the Churdhar Valley, the Spiti Valley, and the Kinnaur Valley. So, if you are looking for an unforgettable adventure in the Indian Himalayas, read on to learn more about these amazing offbeat destinations in Himachal Pradesh.

Here’s our list of some of the lesser known offbeat places to visit in Himachal Pradesh include:

1. Churdhar:

churdhar offbeat place to visit in himachal

Situated in Sirmaur district, Churdhar is the highest peak in the Shivalik range of the Himalayas and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

The Churdhar Valley is located in the Sirmaur district of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated in the western part of the state and is bordered by the states of Punjab and Haryana.

The Churdhar Valley is renowned for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The valley is surrounded by the mighty Churdhar Mountain, which stands at an altitude of 3,647 meters (11,965 feet) and is the highest peak in the outer Himalayas. The mountain is covered in dense forests and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare species of animals and plants.

One of the main attractions in the Churdhar Valley is the Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary, which covers an area of 381 square kilometers (147 square miles) and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including leopards, bears, and snow leopards. The sanctuary also offers opportunities for hiking and trekking, with well-marked trails that take you through the beautiful forests and meadows of the region. Kangojodi (the resident forest of Camp Roxx) is located just 100 kms before the Churdhar Wildlife Sanctuary

Another popular attraction in the Churdhar Valley is the Churdhar Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Shiva. The temple is located at the base of the Churdhar Mountain and is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees. The temple is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Overall, the Churdhar Valley is a must-visit destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts alike. With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers. We recommend it at the top of our unexplored offbeat places to visit in Himachal.

2. Chitkul:

chitkul himachal pradesh
Chitkul (H.P.) Photographic Representation

Situated near the India-China border, Chitkul is the last inhabited village in Kinnaur and offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountains.

Delhi residents should visit Chitkul in Himachal Pradesh because it is a gorgeous and peaceful destination that offers a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located near the India-China border in the Kinnaur district, Chitkul is the last inhabited village of India and offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountains.

The landscape of Chitkul is dominated by the Baspa river, which flows through the village and provides a picturesque setting. The village is surrounded by forests, meadows, and snow-capped peaks, making it a paradise for nature lovers. In addition to its natural beauty, Chitkul is also known for its unique culture and the friendly locals who welcome visitors with open arms.

In terms of activities, there are many things to do in Chitkul. Some popular options include:

  • Trekking and hiking: Chitkul is a great destination for trekking and hiking, with a number of beautiful trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Camping: Chitkul is an awesome place to go camping, with a bunch of campsites that can offer a wild camping experience in the beautiful surroundings.
  • Birdwatching: Chitkul is home to a rich variety of bird species, including the Himalayan monal, the Tibetan snowcock, and the lammergeier.
  • Visit the Baspa Temple: The Baspa Temple is a popular religious site located near the village of Chitkul. It is dedicated to the goddess Baspa and is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.

Chitkul is a must-visit option and is high up on the list of our suggested offbeat places to visit in Himachal. It offers a unique mix of untouched natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities. It is well worth a visit for anyone looking to escape the rush of city life and experience the tranquillity of the Himalayan mountains.

3. Malana:

Malana village sunrise in Himachal Pradesh

Located in the Parvati Valley, Malana is a small village known for its unique culture and Malana Cream, a locally-produced strain of cannabis.

Malana is a small village in the state of Himachal Pradesh in India. It is located in the Kullu district, in the Parvati Valley. The village is known for its unique culture and ancient traditions. The people of Malana consider themselves to be descendants of Alexander the Great, and their language and customs are quite distinct from those of the surrounding areas.

The village is also famous for its high-quality marijuana, which is grown in the surrounding hills and is considered to be some of the best in the world. Despite its remote location, Malana has become a popular destination for tourists, who come to experience the village’s unique culture and to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Malana is an excellent choice for those looking for a list of offbeat places to visit in Himachal.

4. Sarahan:

Bhimakali Temple, Sarahan (H.P.)

Sarahan is a small village located in the beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh in India. Nestled in the picturesque Shimla district, Sarahan is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance.

The village is home to the stunning Bhimakali Temple, which is a architectural marvel and a must-visit for all travelers. The temple is considered to be one of the 52 Shakti Peethas, and is believed to have been built by the Pandavas. It is a perfect blend of ancient Hindu and Buddhist styles of architecture, and offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere for those seeking spiritual fulfillment.

Sarahan is also surrounded by beautiful hills and forests, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. The village is a haven for birdwatchers, with hundreds species of birds found in the area. It is also home to a number of rare and endangered species of animals, such as the snow leopard, the brown bear, and the red fox.

In addition to its natural beauty, Sarahan is also a great place to experience the local culture and traditions. The village is home to a number of traditional crafts, such as wood carving and pottery, which are still practised by the locals. You can also try your hand at some traditional Himachali dishes, such as siddu, which is a delicious steamed bread made with wheat flour and stuffed with a variety of fillings.

All in all, a visit to Sarahan is a must for anyone looking to experience the best of what offbeat places to visit in Himachal Pradesh have to offer. With its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, Sarahan is an offbeat destination that will leave you spellbound. Check out the best times to visit this hidden gem and experience its unique charm in full glory this year.

Situated at the foot of the Himalayas, Sarahan is a picturesque town known for its ancient Bhimakali Temple and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. This is why we made sure to add Sarahan to our list of offbeat places to visit in Himachal.

5. Kalpa:

Kinner Kailash Views From Kinnaur, H.P.

Located in Kinnaur, Kalpa is a beautiful town situated at an altitude of 2,960 meters and offers stunning views of the Kinnaur Kailash range.

Kalpa is a small, picturesque village located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh in India. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush forests, Kalpa offers a breathtakingly beautiful and serene setting for a perfect getaway.

One of the main attractions of Kalpa is the opportunity to witness the stunning sunrise and sunset over the majestic Kinner Kailash mountain range. The view from Kalpa is truly breathtaking, and is a must-see for all travelers.

In addition to its natural beauty, Kalpa is also home to a number of interesting places to visit. The Kinnaur Kailash Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most important religious sites in the region. The temple is built in the traditional Kinnaur style, and offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere for devotees.

Another popular attraction is the Rupi Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary which is located some 62 km away from Kalpa and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. This sanctuary is a great place for nature lovers, with over 200 species of birds and a number of rare and endangered animals.

In terms of accommodation, Kalpa offers a range of options to suit all budgets. From luxury resorts like The Grand Shamba-La & Echor-The Pine Crest to cosy homestays, you can choose the option that best suits your needs and preferences.

In conclusion, a visit to Kalpa is a must try for anyone looking to experience the best offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh. With its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and interesting places to visit, Kalpa has a landscape that needs to be seen to be believed. So don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit this pretty village and experience its unique charm for yourself!

6. Kaza:

Kaza Village, Spiti Valley, H.P.

Situated in the Spiti Valley, Kaza is the largest town in the region and offers a unique blend of Tibetan and Himachali culture.

The Spiti Valley is a remote and rugged region of the Indian Himalayas that is known for its breathtaking beauty and cultural treasures. Kaza, the largest town in the valley, is the perfect starting point for exploring this beautiful region. From Kaza, you can venture out on foot or by bike to explore the surrounding mountains and valleys, which are filled with ancient monasteries, picturesque villages, and stunning natural landscapes.

The journey to Kaza itself is an adventure, as the town can only be reached by traveling along a treacherous mountain road that winds its way through the Himalayas. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and sparkling rivers. When you arrive in Kaza, you’ll find a charming town that is filled with friendly locals, traditional Ladakhi architecture, and a rich cultural heritage.

In Kaza, you can visit the famous Ki Monastery, which is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in the north Kaza region. The monastery is perched high on a cliff overlooking the Spiti Valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You can also visit Nako Lake which is 111 km away if you take the route via NH505, which is a beautiful high-altitude lake that is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is a popular spot for photography and picnicking.

No trip to Kaza would be complete without experiencing the local culture. You can visit the local markets, which are filled with colorful stalls selling handmade crafts and traditional Ladakhi textiles. You can also try some of the local cuisine, which includes delicious dishes like momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and tsampa (roasted barley flour).

Overall, a trip to Kaza in the Spiti Valley will be an unforgettable experience that is a great fit for adventurous travellers looking to explore the pristine beauty and culture of the Indian Himalayas.

7. Tabo:

Tabo is still a hidden gem in Spiti Valley, H.P.

Located in the Spiti Valley, Tabo is a small town known for its ancient Buddhist monasteries and the Tabo Caves, a network of ancient Buddhist caves.

Tabo is a small town located in the Spiti Valley region of the Indian Himalayas and could not be dropped from our list of offbeat places to visit in Himachal. This quaint little town is known for its ancient Buddhist monasteries and its picturesque location, nestled in the shadow of snow-capped mountains. Visitors to Tabo can experience a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

One of the main attractions in Tabo is the Tabo Monastery, which is considered to be one of the oldest and most important monasteries in the region. The monastery, which was founded in the 10th century, is home to a collection of ancient Buddhist manuscripts and murals that are considered to be priceless cultural treasures. Visitors can explore the monastery and learn about its rich history and cultural significance.

Another popular attraction in Tabo is the Tabo Cave Temples, which are a series of ancient caves that were carved into the mountainside by Buddhist monks. The caves, which date back to the 9th century, are filled with intricate carvings and paintings that depict scenes from Buddhist mythology. Visitors can explore the caves and marvel at the skill and artistry of the ancient artists.

In addition to its cultural attractions, Tabo is an excellent option for those searching for offbeat places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, especially, for outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding mountains and valleys offer endless opportunities for hiking and spending time with the village community. Visitors can explore the nearby Dhankar Monastery, which is perched high on a cliff overlooking the valley, or visit the nearby village of Pin Valley National Park, which is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna.

Overall, a visit to Tabo offers a unique and immersive experience for travelers who are interested in exploring the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Indian Himalayas.

8. Kinnaur:

Kinnaur, H.P.

Located in the eastern part of the state, Kinnaur is a remote and peaceful district known for its scenic beauty, apple orchards, and the Kinnauri shawl.

Kinnaur is another district located in the eastern part of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is known for its stunning natural scenery, apple orchards, and the Kinnauri shawl, a traditional hand-woven woolen shawl.

The picturesque landscape of Kinnaur is dominated by the Kinnaur Kailash, a sacred mountain peak with a distinctive double-peaked summit. The district is also home to the Kinnaur valley, which is known for its picturesque apple orchards and terraced fields.

In terms of activities, there are many things to do in Kinnaur. Some popular options include:

  • Trekking and hiking: Kinnaur offers some of the best trekking and hiking opportunities in Himachal Pradesh. Popular trekking routes include the Kinnaur Kailash trek and the Kinnaur-Spiti trek.
  • Camping: Kinnaur is a great place to go camping, with a number of beautiful campsites offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Birdwatching: Kinnaur is home to a rich variety of bird species, including the Himalayan monal, the Tibetan snowcock, and the lammergeier.
  • Visit the Kinnaur Kailash Temple: The Kinnaur Kailash Temple is a popular religious site located near the town of Kalpa. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.

Kinnaur is as offbeat a destination as it gets. With a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor activities, this has to be on your bucket list of offbeat places to visit in Himachal. It is well worth a visit for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and experience the peace and tranquillity of the Himalayan mountains.

Conclusion

Himachal Pradesh is a treasure trove of beautiful and offbeat destinations that are well worth exploring provided you have the luxury of time. Many people are unable to plan trips to certain destinations like these and are missing out on some of the most breath-taking natural wonders of the world.

We get 9-5 lives can get busy. And not always do you have the option of taking week-long trips to explore the offbeat side of Himachal. This is why Kangojodi is one such option on the list of our offbeat places to visit in Himachal that’s more easily accessible for short weekend trips with friends & family.

Get in touch with us to know more about this place!

Don’t want to go so far from Delhi?

If you’re looking for something which can be done as a short road trip close to Delhi, Kangojodi camps could be a great alternative.

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