Himachal Pradesh, a treasure trove of natural beauty, is famous for its snow-capped mountains, serene landscapes, and cozy hill stations. While the popular hill stations like Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala attract hordes of tourists every year, there are several offbeat destinations in Himachal Pradesh that offer a unique and peaceful snow experience. If you’re looking for places that are not overcrowded and offer an authentic winter retreat, then these 20 offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh for snowfall will surely captivate your senses.
1. Bharmour
Nestled in the Chamba district, Bharmour is a hidden gem that offers a tranquil retreat amidst the stunning beauty of the Dhauladhar Range. It is a perfect offbeat destination for those seeking snowfall without the usual tourist crowds. Bharmour is not only famous for its picturesque landscapes but also for its religious significance, as it’s home to the revered Chaurasi Temple. During winters, the place is covered with a thick blanket of snow, and the Manimahesh Kailash Peak, visible from here, adds to the breathtaking view.
2. Tirthan Valley
Tirthan Valley, located near the Great Himalayan National Park, is a hidden paradise for snowfall lovers. The valley offers a serene environment with snow-covered forests, beautiful rivers, and traditional Himachali villages. The region is perfect for winter treks, snow activities, and fishing in the Tirthan River. It’s a great place to escape the usual crowd and enjoy an authentic Himalayan winter.
3. Chail
Chail is a quaint hill station near Shimla, famous for its scenic beauty and peaceful environment. It is home to the highest cricket ground in the world and the Chail Palace. Snowfall in Chail transforms it into a winter wonderland, making it a perfect destination for a winter retreat. Its quiet ambiance and offbeat charm make it an ideal place for those looking to experience snowfall away from the touristy crowds.
4. Kinnaur
Kinnaur, with its snow-covered peaks and picturesque valleys, is another offbeat destination in Himachal Pradesh. The region is known for its apple orchards, ancient temples, and mesmerizing landscapes. Places like Kalpa, Sangla, and Chitkul are perfect for enjoying snowfall and are relatively less crowded compared to other hill stations. Kinnaur offers a great mix of adventure and peace amidst the snow-capped peaks.
5. Spiti Valley
Spiti Valley is a high-altitude desert that remains largely untouched by mass tourism. The valley receives heavy snowfall in the winter months, creating a surreal landscape. The snow-covered monasteries, frozen rivers, and quaint villages like Kaza, Langza, and Hikkim offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Despite its harsh winter conditions, Spiti attracts adventurous souls looking for an offbeat snow experience.
6. Shoja
Shoja is a small village in the Seraj Valley, far from the usual tourist routes. The village is known for its scenic beauty and snowfall during the winter season. Surrounded by dense forests and snow-covered peaks, Shoja is perfect for those seeking peace, solitude, and a genuine snow experience. The nearby Tirthan Valley also adds to the charm of the area, offering opportunities for winter trekking and nature walks.
7. Prashar Lake
Situated at an altitude of 2,730 meters, Prashar Lake in the Mandi district is a hidden gem for snowfall lovers. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and dense forests, providing a stunning winter scene. The trek to Prashar Lake becomes even more magical in winter, with the frozen lake adding to the tranquility of the area. The offbeat nature of the location makes it a peaceful retreat for those looking to experience snowfall away from the crowd.
8. Naggar
Naggar, located near Manali, is a quiet village known for its historical significance and scenic beauty. It offers a unique blend of culture, history, and nature, making it an excellent destination to experience snowfall in peace. The Naggar Castle and the Roerich Art Gallery are the highlights of this offbeat destination. In winter, Naggar is blanketed in snow, providing a picturesque setting for a winter retreat.
9. Barot
Barot is a small town in the Mandi district, surrounded by dense forests and snow-covered peaks. The town offers a peaceful environment for those looking to experience snowfall without the crowds. It is known for its fishing camps, scenic views, and tranquil atmosphere. Barot is an ideal destination for nature lovers and those looking to escape the busy tourist spots.
10. Janjehli
Janjehli, located in the Sirmaur district, is a serene village that remains relatively unknown to tourists. It is known for its lush greenery during the summer, but in winter, Janjehli is transformed into a snowy wonderland. The area is perfect for hiking, nature walks, and enjoying the quiet snow-covered landscapes.
11. Kullu
While Kullu is often overshadowed by Manali, it offers a quieter snow experience. The town itself is picturesque, with the snow-capped peaks of the Great Himalayan Range in the backdrop. The Raghunath Temple and Bijli Mahadev Temple are major attractions here. Kullu is less crowded than Manali, making it a great spot to enjoy the winter snowfall without the hustle and bustle.
12. Manali (Solang Valley)
Although Manali is famous, the Solang Valley offers an offbeat experience with its snow-covered slopes and pristine environment. Solang Valley is perfect for snow activities like skiing, snowboarding, and paragliding. It’s less crowded than the main Manali town, making it a peaceful retreat during the winter months.
13. Dharamshala
Dharamshala, the home to the Dalai Lama, is another offbeat destination to enjoy snowfall. The town is located amidst the Dhauladhar Range, and during winter, it receives heavy snowfall. The nearby McLeod Ganj offers spiritual solace, while the snow-capped mountains create a peaceful backdrop. Dharamshala is a great destination for those who want to experience snowfall along with a spiritual retreat.
14. Chandratal Lake
Chandratal Lake, located in the Spiti Valley, is one of the most stunning places to experience snowfall. Known for its crescent shape, the lake is surrounded by snow-covered mountains, offering a surreal sight during the winter months. The location is remote, which makes it an ideal offbeat destination for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of snow.
15. Dalhousie
Dalhousie is a charming hill station that offers stunning views of the Dhauladhar Range. During the winter season, the town and its surroundings are covered in snow, transforming Dalhousie into a winter paradise. The quiet ambiance and offbeat charm make it an excellent destination for those looking to enjoy a peaceful snowfall experience.
16. Rohru
Rohru is located in the Shimla district and is relatively unknown to tourists. It is an ideal destination for those who want to experience snowfall in a serene environment. The town is known for its apple orchards and scenic views of the snow-capped mountains. Rohru is a great place for winter treks and adventure activities.
17. Keylong
Keylong, the administrative headquarters of Lahaul and Spiti, is a remote destination that offers a snowy retreat. The town remains under snow for most of the winter months and provides a peaceful winter atmosphere. Keylong is perfect for those looking to experience snowfall in a less commercialized area.
18. Pangi Valley
Pangi Valley, located in the Chamba district, is a remote and offbeat destination. The valley is known for its stunning landscapes and heavy snowfall during the winter months. It remains relatively untouched by tourists, making it an ideal place for those seeking solitude amidst the snow-covered peaks.
19. Narkanda
Narkanda, located near Shimla, is known for its apple orchards and scenic views. During the winter months, it receives heavy snowfall, and the Hatu Peak offers panoramic views of the snow-covered landscape. Narkanda is less crowded than Shimla and offers a peaceful snowfall experience.
20. Kullu-Manali (Naggar Road)
The Naggar Road, a lesser-known route between Kullu and Manali, offers a peaceful and offbeat snowfall experience. The road is lined with beautiful villages, lush forests, and snow-capped mountains. The area remains less crowded compared to the main roads leading to Manali, making it a great place to enjoy the snow in peace.
Conclusion
Himachal Pradesh is a treasure trove of offbeat destinations that offer snowfall and serene winter experiences. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in Bharmour or planning an adventure in the snowy valleys of Kinnaur and Spiti, Himachal has something for every snow lover. These 20 offbeat destinations provide the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of mainstream tourist spots, offering a unique and tranquil snowfall experience.
