Must-Visit Places in Shimla and Manali

Appearing as though sleeping on the lap of a mother, Shimla and Manali are two of India’s most picturesque destinations with a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and cultural charm. Shimla, the hill station hailed as the “queen of hills”, with its ancient architecture and scenic vistas, hypnotizes visitors with lush green hills, snow-capped peaks, and mist-covered forests while, Manali, on the other hand, captivates with its awe-inspiring landscapes, gushing rivers, and adventure-filled valleys. A Manali tour package is the perfect way to experience the beauty and excitement this destination has to offer.

1. Places to visit in Shimla:

The Rashtrapathi Niwas:

Also called the Viceregal Lodge, The Rashtrapathi Niwas is one of Shimla’s most historically and architecturally significant erects designed by a British architect in a Jacobethan style or a style similar to that of buildings during the Renaissance, somewhere in the 1880s. It was for Lord Dufferin who desired a building that was both suitable for impressing guests at state banquets and also reminded him of his home country.

With intricately carved wooden interiors, sprawling lawns, and majestic stone façades, it currently houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Study. The vast manicured gardens around the Niwas and the panoramic views of the surrounding hills make it a popular tourist attraction.

The Jakhoo Temple:

Amidst the beautiful Shivalik hill ranges stands an ancient Hanuman temple popularly known as the Jakhoo temple with a 108 feet tall statue deemed one of the largest statues of Pawan Putra Hanuman you’ll ever come across. Enveloped by dense forests of deodar and oak, the temple provides a calm atmosphere attracting both devotees and tourists alike.

During the battle against Ravan in Ramayana, Lakshmana gets injured by an arrow and falls unconscious. Despite several efforts, he couldn’t be revived. Then a priest told Rama that a particular Sanjeevani herb could bring him back to life and Hanuman was delegated the task of procurement.  Atop the mountain is 4 medicinal herbs including the Sanjeevani and because it was a battle against time, Hanuman lifts the whole mountain and brings it to Ram. It is believed that to honour Hanuman, the sage Yaaku built the temple here.

From the vantage point of the temple, the breathtaking views of the hill ranges and the town that unfold below make the climb to Jakhoo Hill a worthy and rewarding journey indeed.

Kufri:

Kufri, a quaint hill station nestled in the embrace of the Himalayas, lies just a short drive from Shimla. It is widely known for its stunning visuals and cool crisp air breezing back and forth, the rolling hills, and the dense forests that create a visual so impressive it’s almost unreal.  The weather, the atmosphere, and the visuals are perfect for honeymooners. It is also a house for many ancient temples.

2. Places to visit in Manali:

Hadimba Devi Temple:

Amidst the towering deodar forests in Manali lies the Hadimba temple dedicated to the wife of Bhima, one of the 5 Pandavas, and a strong warrior known for his raw brute strength. It was built in  1533 by Maharaja Bahadur Singh, the temple’s distinctive four-tiered pagoda-style roof and beautifully carved wooden doorway reflect the state-of-the-art types of equipment and rich cultural heritage.

The story goes like this: when the Pandavas escaped an attempt on their lives, they hid in the Kamayaka Forest, which was the home of the demon siblings Hidimb and Hidimbi. The brother asked his sister Hidimbi to slay the Pandavas but she fell in love with Bhima at first sight and saved the Pandavas from her brother. Because of the circumstances, Bhima had to leave her after she gave birth to Gatotkach, and through intense Tapasya became a goddess, blessed by Durga and hence revered in this place.

Rohtang Pass:

At an altitude of 13050 feet in Himalayas is the gateway that connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti valleys of Himachal Pradesh widely known for its awe-inspiring landscapes. This high mountain pass offers beautiful views of snow-covered mountains, verdant meadows, and white glaciers unlike any other. The journey to Rohtang Pass is an adventure in itself, with winding roads that traverse rugged terrains and pristine rivers. During the summer, the pass indulges in adventurous activities like skiing, snowboarding, and sledding against a backdrop of dazzling white snow. As the snow melts, it reveals a stunning palette of wildflowers, making it a picturesque paradise for nature lovers and photographers. Despite the challenging conditions, the sheer beauty and raw grandeur of Rohtang Pass make it a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the majestic charm of the Himalayas.

Sukhana Lake and the Rock Garden:

Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh is a tranquil man-made reservoir ideal for boating and scenic walks, offering a peaceful retreat. Nearby, the Rock Garden, an artistic marvel created by Nek Chand, showcases intricate sculptures and installations crafted from industrial and urban waste. Together, they offer a harmonious blend of natural beauty and creative ingenuity, making them essential stops for visitors to the city.