With landscapes ranging from mountains to beaches, the country offers something for every traveller. For a refreshing start, let’s head to the mountains and hill regions of North India.

In this blog, we’ll explore the top summer destinations in Himachal Pradesh, from Manali and Shimla to Dalhousie, each offering its own unique experience. Along with must-visit places, you’ll also find nearby accommodations to make your journey more convenient.

1. Manali

The summer in Manali is truly a treat to your eyes. The snowy landscape transforms into a lush green valley, beautifully adorned with apple orchards and flowers. The cascading waterfalls and clear streams further enhance the charm. The temperature remains pleasantly comfortable, ranging between 10°C and 25°C, making it convenient for sightseeing and other outdoor activities.

Places to visit:

The following are must-visit places during the summer in Manali:

1. Rohtang Pass:

This high mountain pass is located approximately 51 km from Manali and is renowned for its snow-covered peaks. As summer sets in, the snow begins to melt, allowing tourists to access and explore the pass.

Please note that, if you are visiting here in diesel or petrol vehicles, you will have to apply for a pass from the official website of the District Administration Kullu.

2. Hidimba Devi Temple:

It is a beautiful temple renowned for its four-tiered, wooden pagoda-style architecture amidst the forest. The temple is unique in its way of worship.

Unlike the other temples, people worship the footprints of Hidimba Devi. The goddess is believed to be the wife of Bhima [a character in the epic Mahabharata].

3. Solang Nullah

If you are interested in adventure, then this valley is the ideal spot. Located around 13 km from Manali, the valley is nestled amidst the deodar forests and high peaks.

Adventure activities here include quad bike rides, zorbing, paragliding, ropeway rides, rock climbing, and camping.

Where to stay?

You can plan your stay at any of the homestays, resorts or hotels in Manali. The following is the curated list of accommodations that offer safe and cosy stays.

S.No.	Property Name	Location	Category	Price [approx.]
1.	Bookmart, Old Manali	Log Huts Area Road	4-star hotel	₹10,300
2	Hotel Glacier Resort	Hadimba Devi Road	Resort	₹3,400
3.	Hotel New Vistas	Bhajogi	Hotel	₹4,365
4.	Gurung’s Cottage	Shaminala Road	Homestay	₹8148
5.	Justa Grand View Resort & Spa	Shuru Road, Prini	Resort	₹8,835

Summer travel tip:

When you are visiting Manali in the summer, don’t forget to carry a light woollen dress or a jacket as the temperature may dip significantly after sunset.

Further, the summer is considered to be the peak season in Manali, so it is recommended to book your accommodations well in advance.

2. Shimla

Once served as the former summer capital of British India, Shimla offers a pleasant and thrilling retreat. The lush green landscape, amazing views of the Himalayan range, and the vibrant blooming of rhododendrons together make your trip more memorable.

Places to visit:

The following are some of the main attractions of Shimla, which you shouldn’t miss visiting:

1. Tatapani -

Renowned for hot water springs and a range of adventure activities, Tatapani is an ideal destination for both nature lovers and adventure seekers. It is located around 51 km from Shimla, along the banks of the Sutlej River.

Enjoy thrilling river rafting and explore the cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

2. Chadwick Falls -

This is a majestic and amazing waterfall amidst the dense forest. It is located at just 5.4 km from the main town.

The name ‘Chadwick Falls’ was derived from two words, ‘Chidku’ [sparrow] and ‘Jhaar’. The people believed that only sparrows could reach the top of the falls.

The point here is that the falls are very tall and awesome. How can someone miss witnessing its beauty?

3. Jakhoo Hill -

This hill is the highest peak in Shimla City, offering amazing views of the Himalayas.

The main attraction here is the Jakhoo Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The interesting part is that the statue of Hanuman here is the largest.

Where to stay?

The following table showcases the list of top resorts, homestays, and hotels in Shimla.

S.No.	Property Name	Location	Category	Price [approx.]
1	Willow Bank	Mall Road, Bemloi	Boutique 4-star hotel	₹10,639
2	The Vinshar Apple Farm	Kufri	Resort	₹7,315
3	Hotel Baljees Regency	Circular Rd., near Victory Tunnel	4-star hotel	₹5,985
4	The Byke Nature Vilas	Village Dhagogi	Resort	₹4,750
5	Fairmount Shimla Forest Greens	Navbhahar	Resort	₹3,325
6	Aagaman Woods	Village Badhai, Taradevi	Homestay	₹1,425

Summer travel tip:

As stated for Manali, so applies to Shimla too. Book in advance your accommodations and other activities.

If you are visiting in late May, you can witness the Shima Summer Festival. It is a five-day celebration and usually held in the last week of May or early June.

3. Dharamshala

The summer in Dharamshala opens up a range of activities and sightseeing opportunities. As the snow melts, the entire landscape becomes greenery adorned with blooming flowers. With nice weather, adventure activities like paragliding and trekking become even more enjoyable.

Places to visit:

1. McLeodGanj -

It is a suburb, located around 9.2 km from Dharamshala. During the summer, the weather is pleasant at around 25°C and is considered to be the peak season for adventure activities.

You can consider trekking at Triund Hill. This hill is fondly referred to as the ‘Crown Jewel’ of Dharamshala. The trek to this hilltop from McLeodGanj is 9 km. It passes through Dharamkot, Galu Devi Temple, and then you climb to the top. And, if you start from Dharamkot, the distance is only 7 km.

Till the Galu Devi Temple, you can travel by taxi and trek the remaining distance.

Other than trekking, you can consider visiting attractions like Naddi View Point and Bhagsunag Waterfall.

2. Dal Lake -

It is just 4 km from McLeodGanj. It is a charming lake amidst the deodar forest. It is truly a must-visit spot in summer.

3. Palampur -

This place is also known as the ‘Tea Capital of Northwest India’. You can visit the various tea estates and even opt for guided factory tours. These estates produce the famous ‘Kangra Tea’ of Dharamshala.

Apart from this, you can also enjoy thrilling adventure activities like paragliding and trekking.

Palampur is approximately 34 km from Dharamshala.

Where to stay?

Discover a curated selection of resorts, homestays, and hotels in Dharamshala below:

S.No.	Property Name	Location	Category	Price [approx.]
1	Justa Birding	Khanyara Road, Chohla	5-star Hotel	₹9,250
2	Mastiff Select Mandavya	Dharamkot Road, McLeod Ganj	5-star Hotel	₹7,485
3	Nibana Luxury Resort	Village Lungta, Khanyara Road	Resort	₹7,315
4	Quartz by Himalayan Brothers	Palampur - Dharamshala Rd, Norbulingka, Sidhpur	Luxury 3-star Hotel	₹7,315
5	Pause Dwelling Palace	Below the Buddhist Temple, McLeod Ganj	Budget Hotel	₹3,040

Summer travel tip:

It is important to remember that the sun can be direct and harsh at high altitudes. So it is recommended to consider sunscreen, a cap, and sunglasses.

However, evenings can be cooler.

4. Dalhousie

With charming greenery bringing coolness to the eyes, thrilling adventures to make the trip memorable, and stunning views of snow-capped Pir-Panjal and Dhauladhar mountain ranges, Dalhousie is another perfect spot for summer vacations.

Places to visit:

1. Khajjiar -

Fondly called the ‘Mini Switzerland of India’, Khajjiar is a must-visit destination in your Dalhousie trip.

You can enjoy several adventure activities like paragliding, horse riding, and a jungle safari at Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary.

The Kalatop Sanctuary is just around 15.5 km away from Khajjiar, and is renowned for its dense deodar forests.

2. Chamera Lake -

If you are interested in water sports, this destination is an ideal choice. Chill yourself here by indulging in activities like boating, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.

Both Chamera Lake and Khajjiar are in the Chamba District. If you want to reach Chamera Lake from Khajjiar, travel through the Khajjiar-Dalhousie road, then towards Chamera Lake.

The lake is approximately a two-hour drive from Khajjiar.

3. Dainkund Hilltop -

Dainkund is the highest peak among the Dalhousie hills. From the Dalhousie-Khajjiar Road, take a turn at the Dainkund hiking trail starting point.

The views are amazing from the hilltop. Visit to admire the views of Khajjiar, capture memorable photos, and make the most of your time here.

Where to stay?

Given below are some of the hand-picked resorts and hotels in Dalhousie in all price ranges.

S.No.	Property Name	Location	Category	Price [approx.]
1	Hotel Mongas	Gandhi Chowk	3-star hotel	₹7,217
2	Mastiff Hotel	Chamba Road, Banikhet	4-star hotel	₹5,786
3	Sagrika Resort	Court Rd, Subhash Chowk Rd	Family Resort	₹3,331
4	DLS Ark Holiday Inn	Baniket	4-star hotel	₹3,200
5	Breezewood Wonders	Malura P.O., Tehsil, Bathri	Budget Hotel	₹1,999

Summer travel tip:

You won’t find many ATMs in Khajjiar. So, it is always advisable to carry sufficient cash in hand. ATMs are available in Dalhousie.

Similar to the other destinations, the nights are cooler. So, be prepared.

Conclusion

With that, you’ve explored some of the top summer destinations in Himachal Pradesh, each offering scenic beauty, pleasant weather, and memorable experiences. As repeatedly mentioned, summer is the peak season, so it’s advisable to book your accommodations early to secure the best options at reasonable prices.

With top places, curated stays, and essential travel tips covered for each destination, you’re all set to plan a happy summer trip.

Wishing you a safe journey and a delightful stay.

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• Best Summer Vacation Ideas In India - It explores hill stations, beach destinations, and places for enjoying trekking and adventure activities