Himachal Pradesh Travel Vlog – A Journey Into the Heart of the Himalayas
There are few places in India as magical and soul-refreshing as Himachal Pradesh. Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Himachal is not just a destination—it’s an experience. Snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, winding roads, vibrant local culture, and peaceful moments by rivers make it a dream come true for every traveler.
In this travel vlog-style post, I’ll take you through my 7-day journey through Shimla, Manali, Kasol, and Tosh—a trip that felt like a warm hug in cold weather.
Delhi to Shimla – The Adventure Begins
We began our journey from Delhi late at night in a Volvo bus. The excitement of the upcoming mountain escape kept us wide awake even as the city lights faded behind us. The overnight journey took around 8 hours, and we reached Shimla just as the sun rose over the hills.
As soon as we stepped down, the cold breeze greeted us like an old friend. After a quick breakfast of butter toast and chai at a local café, we checked into a quaint guest house near Mall Road. The view from our room overlooked the valley and distant snow-lined peaks.
Top Places Visited in Shimla:
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Mall Road – Ideal for shopping, snacking, and people-watching.
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The Ridge – A scenic open space with colonial-era buildings and panoramic mountain views.
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Kufri – A small town 30 minutes from Shimla known for horse riding and snow activities.
In the evening, we treated ourselves to a Himachali thali—a plateful of local flavors like Madra, Chha Gosht, Siddu, and Babru. It was a delicious welcome to Himachali cuisine.
Manali – Snow, Thrill, and Mountain Magic
On Day 2, we left for Manali, a 7-hour drive through winding mountain roads and pine forests. We made several stops along the way to soak in the beauty, have tea at roadside dhabas, and click hundreds of pictures.
We stayed in Old Manali, where the vibe is more bohemian and chill. Our hostel had bonfire nights and a rooftop café that played soft indie music while serving hot chocolate.
Dharamshala & McLeodganj – The Tibetan Heartland
Home to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Dharamshala and McLeodganj are known for their Tibetan culture, peaceful monasteries, and scenic surroundings.
Must-visit places:
Namgyal Monastery: A spiritual center for meditation.
Bhagsu Waterfall: A short hike through forested trails.
Triund Trek: A relatively easy yet rewarding trek offering mesmerizing views of the Dhauladhar range.
Tibetan markets for traditional clothes, jewelry, and souvenirs
Dalhousie – Colonial Beauty with Alpine Charm
Dalhousie is a quiet hill station with British-era architecture, pine forests, and panoramic landscapes. Ideal for a laid-back vacation.
Key spots:
Khajjiar: Known as the “Mini Switzerland of India”.
Dainkund Peak: The highest point in Dalhousie with a 360° view.
Panchpula: Scenic picnic spot with waterfalls and streams.
Spiti Valley – The Cold Desert of India
For offbeat and adventurous travelers, Spiti Valley is a dream come true. Located at an altitude of over 12,000 ft, it offers rugged landscapes, ancient monasteries, and surreal beauty.
Highlights:
Key Monastery: One of the oldest and largest in Spiti.
Chandratal Lake: A crescent-shaped glacial lake with turquoise waters.
Pin Valley National Park: Home to snow leopards and rare flora.
Homestays with locals offering authentic Himalayan hospitality
🗓️ Best Time to Visit Himachal Pradesh
| Season | Months | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | April to June | Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and trekking. |
| Monsoon | July to September | Lush greenery, fewer tourists, but occasional landslides. |
| Winter | October to February | Snowfall, skiing, Christmas markets, cozy cabins. |
Tip: Avoid monsoons if you plan to explore high-altitude regions like Spiti or Rohtang Pass due to road closures.
✈️ How to Reach Himachal Pradesh
By Air:
Shimla Airport (limited flights)
Kullu-Manali Airport (Bhuntar)
Kangra Airport (Gaggal) near Dharamshala
By Train:
Kalka Railway Station (broad gauge) is well connected to Delhi.
Toy train from Kalka to Shimla offers scenic views.
By Road:
Well-connected via NH-3, NH-5, and NH-154.
Luxury Volvo buses available from Delhi and Chandigarh to Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala.
💬 Final Thoughts: Himachal Pradesh – More Than a Destination, It's a Feeling
Himachal Pradesh is not just a place you visit; it’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave. Whether it’s the stillness of the mountains, the warmth of the local people, or the adventure that sets your heart racing — Himachal has a unique way of healing and inspiring the soul.
From the bustling streets of Shimla to the remote silence of Spiti, every region tells its own story. It’s where your days begin with the golden glow of the Himalayas and end around a bonfire under a sky full of stars. And in between, you’re collecting moments — not just photos.
So, whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for the tenth time, Himachal always has something new to offer. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and rediscover life — one mountain at a time.
Pack your bags, take that leap, and let Himachal show you magic. 🌲🏞️