Himachal
Deodar forests, apple orchards and the first high passes, with Manali as the gateway to Lahaul and Ladakh.
About Himachal
Himachal Pradesh is India’s most accessible high country: deodar forests, apple orchards, old hill stations and Tibetan monasteries, with Manali as the gateway to Lahaul, Spiti and Ladakh.
It is also home to some of the best short treks in the Himalaya, from Hampta Pass to the ridges above Dharamshala.
When to go
Best from March to June, September to November.
- January: good
- February: good
- March: best
- April: best
- May: best
- June: best
- July: off season
- August: off season
- September: best
- October: best
- November: best
- December: good
Journeys in Himachal
Before you go
- Getting there
- Fly to Bhuntar near Manali, Kangra near Dharamshala, or Chandigarh. The Kalka–Shimla toy train and overnight Volvo buses from Delhi are both popular.
- Permits
- No permits are needed for most of Himachal. Rohtang Pass needs a permit, but the Atal Tunnel route to Lahaul does not.
- What to eat
- Siddu (stuffed steamed bread), dham feasts, river trout, babru and chha gosht.
- Avoid the low valleys in July and August, when monsoon landslides close roads.
- Weekends bring traffic jams around Solang and Sissu, so travel on weekdays.
- The Atal Tunnel is open all year but can close briefly after heavy snow.
- Rohtang Pass permits are limited and the pass is closed on Tuesdays.
Questions about Himachal
When is the best time to visit Himachal?
March to June and September to November. December to February brings snow to Manali and Shimla.
Is Hampta Pass a good first trek?
Yes, for reasonably fit beginners. It is short but has one long, steep day over the pass.
Do I need a permit for the Atal Tunnel?
No. Only Rohtang Pass needs a permit.