The mighty Himalayas are not just a mountain range in India, they are a bundle of experiences to cherish for a lifetime. Spread over thousands of kilometers, the mountains are home to picturesque hill stations, mighty snowcapped peaks, lush valleys, roaring waterfalls, shimmering lakes, adventure filled treks, peaceful getaways and so much more. If you seek solace, respite from daily schedules, adventure, or spiritual bliss, the Himalayas has a way to create wonderful vacations.
Of the explored and the unexplored, we bring you the top 10 places in Himalayas that offer a peaceful getaway:
Tawang
A quaint little town in Arunachal Pradesh in North East India, Tawang is one of the most peaceful hill stations in Himalayas. Known as the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, there the town is blessed with not just unparalleled natural beauty but some of the most revered Buddhist monasteries in the world. Spend a quiet time with your friends and families, the town enamors with their charm.
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Things to do in Tawang:
Tawang Monastery, Sangetsar Lake, Pankang Teng Tso Lake, Tawang War Memorial, Jaswant Garh, Nuranang Falls, Sela Pass, PTSO Lake, Gorichen peak trek, etc.
- Best time to visit: March to October, January to February for snow.
Auli
Famous for being one of the best skiing destinations in India, Auli in Uttarakhand is blessed. The spectacular beauty, view of the majestic peaks of Himalayas in snow-covered glory, ski worthy slopes put it on the list is of best places to visit in Uttarakhand especially in winter. Plan a holiday to Auli for romance or fun with family or a taste of thrill as it counted among the best Himalayan destinations for adventures sports.
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Things to do in Auli:
Auli Artificial Lake, Gondola ride, Auli skiing, Gurso Bugyal, Chenab Lake, Joshimath temples, etc.
- Best time to visit: October to June.
Manali
Nestled in the Kullu Valley in Himachal, Manali is one of the best hill towns in India. Set on the banks of River Beas, the town is blessed with beauty as well abundant adventures. Temples dating back to the very early days of civilization exist here. Picturesque sights are found in abundance as now capped peaks, lush valleys mark the landscape. Trekking, river rafting, mountaineering, bike riding, paragliding, zorbing are some exhilarating pursuits to try. You can plan a holiday in Manali throughout the year for family vacation, honeymoon or adventure.
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Things to do in Manali:
Hidimba Temple, Van Vihar, Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Old Manali, Manikaran, Manu Temple, etc.
- Best time to visit: October to June.
Darjeeling
Darjeeling is a beautiful hill station in North East India. The Mt Kanchenjunga gazes on the peaceful town. Surrounded by lush tea gardens, the town is marked with Tibetan monasteries, charming homes, markets, blessed view of the mountains and other delights, perfect for a family vacation in Himalayas or a romantic honeymoon in India. Do not miss the ride on the UNESCO Listed Darjeeling Toy Train on your holiday in Darjeeling as you discover the hills in style.
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Things to do in Darjeeling:
Toy Train Ride, Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Happy Valley Tea Estate, Singalia National Park, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Japanese Peace Pagoda, etc.
- Best time to visit: October to June
If you are planning for a Darjeeling and Gangtok Honeymoon tour, check out these 10 Reasons to visit Darjeeling and Gangtok for honeymoon
Ladakh
Nestled amid high mountain passes, Ladakh is one of the best places in Himalayas. It is the land of ancient Buddhism, adventure, alpine lakes, unrivalled beauty and experiences that you cherish for a long time. For the travelers who dare, a wonderful holiday in Ladakh awaits. Located in the remote corner of Jammu & Kashmir, the cold desert is extremely blissful. Go bike-riding, bird watching, camping, rafting, desert safari on the unique double-humped Bactrian Camels or simple soak in the bliss of the unexplored haven.
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Things to do in Ladakh:
Leh Palace, markets, Pangong Lake, Khardung la, confluence of Indus & Zanskar River
- Best time to visit: May to October.
Spiti Valley
Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh is one of the unexplored gems of Himalayas. The cold-desert region is a heaven for trekkers. Untouched natural beauty and breathtaking views are sure to spellbind you. Scenic monasteries, pristine lakes, snow-capped mountains are some features of the landscape. Being positioned on the mighty Himalayas, the valley offers utter tranquility.
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Things to do in Spiti Valley:
Monasteries like Key and Dhankar, mountain biking routes and trekking trail to add adventure factor to your trip. Be a part of the Pauri festival and Cham dance. Complete your trip by exploring lakes with crystal clear water.
- Best time to visit: May to October.
Gulmarg
Beautifully tucked in the Pir Panjal Range of the western Himalayas, Gulmarg is a picturesque hill station. The pristine town is a popular skiing destination for housing the snow-capped peaks which proffer amazing skiing opportunities. The charm and aura of the place is so luring that it is thronged by adventure aficionados and serenity seekers alike. Newly wedded couples find an immense pleasure to commence a romantic phase of their life here.
- Things to do in Gulmarg:
Enjoy the Gondola Ride, one of the highest cable car rides in Asia, skiing, Alphather Lake and Khilanmarg.
- Best time to visit: April to June and October to March
Dharamshala
Also known as Little Lhasa, Dharamshala is the dwelling place of the 14th great Tibetan leader Dalai Lama. Fringed with exotic culture, thick deodar cedar trees, old monasteries and snow-capped mountain, the tranquil hill station presents a visual retreat. The divine and spiritual aura bonds you to Buddhism. Plan your vacation at the summer holiday destination and delight-in an experience of a lifetime.
- Things to do in Dharamshala:
Namgyal Monastery, Dharamkot, St. John’s Church etc., shopping is also a best thing to do in Dharamshala. A voyage to this stunning destination never gets complete without visiting McLeod Ganj. Dal Lake of Dharamshala is best for spending quality time.
- Best time to visit: December to June
Lachung
Situated at a height of 8,610 ft., Lachung is a small hill town. Lachung means small pass and has been cited as the ‘most picturesque town of Sikkim’ by Joseph Dalton Hooker, a British explorer. A thick blanket of snow covers the place during winters enabling Lachung to act as the base camp for Rhododendron Valley Trek.
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Things to do in Lachung:
Pay homage at the Lachung Monastery and admire the striking sculptures and murals. Groove to the ear-pleasing tunes played during the religious dance held in December. Take a look at how the exquisite carpets are woven at the Carpet Weaving Center.
- Best time to visit: October to May
Nainital
Settled in the lap of Kumaon Himalayas on the shores of Naini Lake, Nainital is one of the best hill towns in India. Peaceful is just another reason for the town in Uttarakhand and therefore the reason why the town is favored as one of the best places for honeymoon in India. Blessed with a number of lakes, view of snowcapped mountains, charming culture and other delights, you can plan a peaceful holiday with nainital tour packages
- Things to do in Nainital:
Naini lake, Sattal, Nainital Zoo, Aerial Ropeway, Naina Devi Temple, Tiffin Top, Eco Caves, Raj Bhavan, Snow View Point, Kilbury, Gurney House, etc.
- Best time to visit: October to June.
Author Bio: Akansha Negi frequently writes at India Travel Blog by Indian Holiday Pvt. Ltd. She shares her passion of travel and love for various Indian destinations. While planning your holidays in India, browse through her write-ups.
