Himachal Pradesh known for its natural beauty offers a variety of activities, which attract the tourists in the state. These includes many adventurous sports. Here is the list of 10 things you must do in Himachal Pradesh.
1. River rafting:
Himachal has become the home for adventure lovers and if you are a real adventure lover, here is the opportunity. Beas in Kullu is the best place for it. You can easily get a raft with a guide. Then your battle of survival starts in the rapids of Beas. 14 km stretch from Pirdi to Khiri offers Grade II and III rapids. Other spots for rafting are Sutlej near Shimla, Ravi in Chamba and Chenab in Lahaul Spiti.
2. Paragliding:
If you want to experience the feel a bird flight in the blue sky, make a Paraglider your wings. Billing in the Kangra is a world’s second best paragliding site. World championship is organized at Billing in the months of October and November Every year. You can have a solo flight if you are experienced, otherwise a skilled pilot will fly with you. Other place for paragliding is Solang Nala in Manali.
3. Trekking and Camping:
Himachal is a heaven for trekkers. Many adventurous treks heading to wonderful mountain peaks of Himalayas through the thick forests, small water streams and fountains. Cool breeze refresh your mind. Treks you can opt are Bijli Mahadev, Saru Tal, Bhrigu lake, Kheerganga in Kullu; Shikari Devi in Mandi; Churdhar in Sirmaur; Kinner kailash & Shrikhand Mahadev in Kinnaur; Manimahesh in Chamba; Triund, Indrahar Pass in Dharamshala; Chanshal, Hattu peak, Giriganga in Upper Shimla.
Spending a night under starry sky in the lush green meadows or on the side of a river can be a lifetime experience. Camping can be done almost everywhere in Himachal Pradesh.
4. Skiing:
If you like snow, you must feel the sliding on the snow with skating boots on. Slopes of Kufri in Shimla are the best for skiing. You can also have skiing experience in Solang nala in Manali.
5.Kalka-Shimla Toy train Journey:
Toy train journey is a must do thing in the Shimla visit. The train running at a speed of 20-25 kmph on the narrow gauge track laid by the Britishers in early 1900’s will take you through the forests of pine, and Deodar with lot of turns, crossing 864 bridges and 102 tunnels would make you feel the beauty of the nature. Train stops at 20 stations in the midway. You can enjoy tea with snacks in the chilling weather.
Also Read: All stations on Kalka-Shimla Track
6. Cable car ride:
Cable cars give you the opportunity to witness the beauty of hills from some height while travelling upward.
If you are travelling between Shimla and Chandigarh, stop for a while at Timber trail and feel the adventure of sitting in a trolley hanging on a rope across several feet deep gorge, takes you to the timber trail resort on the top of the hill. Enjoy a meal or coffee, spend some time there and get back to resume your journey. Timber Trail is just few km ahead of Parwanoo towards Shimla.
Cable car ride can also be taken in Solang Nala in Manali and to Jakhu Temple in Shimla.
7. Taste Himachali Cuisines:
Himachal has some typical traditional recipes you must taste in your Himachal visit. Its dishes are as beautiful and delicious as its hills. Every region has various kinds of cuisines. Himachali Dham is the special food served in the marriages or other functions.
Also Read: Patrode Recipe
8. Cold Desert Expedition:
That can be the most fascinating part of your journey in Himachal. A jeep or Bike expeditionthrough the cold desert of Lahaul- Spiti Valley and Kinnaur. Take a ride from Manali to Rohtang Pass. Other side of Rohtang is the beautiful Spiti Valley. The scenic landscapes of valley are just amazing having tremendous natural charm. You must visit Udaipur, Keylong , Suraj Tal, Chandartal Lake. Then head towards Kinnaur entering. Sangla valley, Kaza and Kalpa are no exception. Then you can leave for Shimla. You can also start from the other side, from Shimla to Manali. The roads are tough for driving so if you are not an expert driver don’t try to experiment with your skills here.
9. Mountain Cycling:
Roads passing through the tough terrain of hills offer a good opportunity for the cyclists to check their stamina in the narrow and up down slopes roads. Hire a cycle and come out in the Himalayan roads. Cool breeze and natural beauty of the hills will make your ride unforgettable.
10. Visit a Deity Temple:
Himachal is known as the ‘abode of Gods’. Hundreds of Deities have their home in the state. These deities are said to possess supernatural powers and same can be reflected by the medium of their shamans called ’Gur’. If you get a chance to visit Kullu, Kinnaur or upper parts of Shimla and Mandi You can witness it yourself. The chants of Mantras with sound of their musical instruments called Karnals and rhythm of Dhols create some Godly atmosphere.
