We are sure you’re tired of the same old destinations and crowded tourist spots, the Shimla Ridge is almost always full and so is the Mall Road in Manali. So we’ve got a solution. This guide to the offbeat places in Himachal might be exactly what you need! With just a weekend or a couple of extra days, you can explore the beautiful offbeat locations in Himachal that offer peace, adventure, and breathtaking views all at once—without breaking the bank or exhausting all your leave from work.
These hidden gems are ideal for quick getaways from taxing city life, offering you solitude and unique experiences that the mainstream tourist spots have just stopped delivering. Imagine spending your weekend soaking in hot springs, camping under starry skies, or exploring quaint little villages where time just stops. These destinations don’t demand a hefty budget or a strict itinerary, just a spirit of adventure and a backpack with essentials!
Best Time to Visit Himachal
Himachal Pradesh offers a distinct charm each season, and these offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh can be visited almost any time of the year! Spring (March to April) brings blooming flowers and vibrant landscapes, making it a good time for trekking in spots like Triund and Kheerganga.
Summer (May to June) is ideal for visiting higher-altitude locations like Solang Valley and Jispa when the snow melts lush green valleys. Monsoon (July to September) is best avoided for travel to Himachal’s remote areas due to landslides but offers a lush, rain-soaked appeal if you can handle the weather.
Autumn (October to November) provides clear skies and crisp weather, perfect for offbeat locations in Himachal like Tosh and Grahan Village. Winter (December to February) brings snowfall to higher regions, creating a picturesque winter wonderland, particularly in Mcleodganj and Solang for those who love the cold. Basically, you can plan your trip based on the season that suits your preferences for an unforgettable experience at these offbeat Himachal locations.
7 Places Offbeat Places in Himachal
Whether you’re looking to chill by the river in Jispa, hike up to the Triund ridge, or experience a slice of authentic Himachali culture in Grahan Village, each spot promises a fulfilling trip. So, gear up to explore some of the best offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh that redefine weekend travel and let you return to the grind with some fresh mountain energy.
Kheerganga
This place offers the best trekking in Himachal in the lap of Parvati Valley, Kheerganga is one of the best offbeat places in Himachal for nature lovers. Located at 13,000 feet, this destination is best known for its natural hot springs surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.
The trek to Kheerganga is moderate and takes around 4-5 hours from Barshaini, the base village. Kheerganga attracts backpackers and trekkers searching for a quiet retreat amid dense forests and rugged paths. On your way up, you’ll find small cafés that offer simple meals, and once you reach the top, the hot springs are an absolute treat for relaxation.
To reach Kheerganga, catch a bus to Kasol, then take a local taxi to Barshaini, where the trek begins. Known as one of Himachal’s offbeat places, Kheerganga offers camping, stargazing, and sunrise views that are hard to forget. This destination provides a peaceful escape and the chance to connect with nature.
Check Out: Kheerganga Trek & Itinerary
Solang Valley
Just a short drive from Manali, Solang Valley is ideal for adventure-seekers. Known for its skiing slopes in winter and paragliding opportunities in summer, Solang Valley is a must-visit among offbeat Himachal destinations. The valley transforms with each season—snow-covered in winter, lush and green in summer. Apart from skiing and paragliding, Solang also offers other attractions like the Anjani Mahadev Temple and the serene Solang Nala stream.
Getting to Solang Valley is easy, with regular taxis and buses available from Manali. As one of the off beat places in Himachal Pradesh, Solang perfectly combines the thrill of adventure with the calm of nature, making it a favorite for both locals and tourists alike.
Journey On: Manali – Solang Valley Weekend Trip
Tosh
Perched at about 7,900 feet, Tosh is a secluded village visited by very few for its quiet charm and stunning landscapes. Only accessible by a short trek from Barshaini, this spot is among the offbeat locations in Himachal that promise peace away from the crowds. The village’s rustic feel, along with panoramic views of the Parvati River, pine forests and the gushing Tosh waterfall gives Tosh its unique appeal.
It’s an ideal place for those who want to unwind and experience Himachal’s local culture. Reaching Tosh involves a road journey to Barshaini, followed by a scenic trek. You can visit the serene Chalal Village and Manikaran Gurudwara enroute. With cozy cafés and homestays offering local flavors, Tosh is loved by photographers and nature enthusiasts. Its laid-back vibe and pristine views make it one of the best offbeat places in Himachal.
Trek Ready: Kasol Tosh Weekend Getaway
Grahan Village
A mere 10 km trek from Kasol main market leads you to Grahan Village, a peaceful destination steeped in traditional Himachali culture. As one of Himachal offbeat places, Grahan showcases charming kathkuni, (stone-and-wood architecture) local traditions, and a serene environment far removed from bustling tourist trails. The trek itself takes you through lush deodar forests, providing views that feel straight out of a nature documentary.
In Grahan Village, you can stay in guesthouses that offer basic but comfortable accommodation. This hidden gem allows you to experience rural Himachal life while exploring scenic paths filled with colorful birds and rare plant species. It’s a refreshing break for those looking for offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh that provide a deeper cultural experience.
Explore More: Grahan Village Trek
Jispa
Set along the banks of the Bhaga River in Lahaul Valley, Jispa is a peaceful village known for its riverside views and spectacular mountain scenery. Though often considered a stop on the way to Leh, Jispa deserves a visit on its own. Sitting at around 10,500 feet, Jispa is perfect for camping, relaxing, and learning about Lahaul’s rich culture through local monasteries and the Jispa Rural Museum.
Accessible by road via the Leh-Manali Highway, Jispa offers basic yet cozy accommodations, making it one of the most scenic offbeat places in Himachal. Enjoy a tranquil escape here with riverside camping and mesmerizing views that will leave you captivated.
Journey On: Manali Jispa Road Trip
McLeodganj
Often called “Little Lhasa,” McLeodganj is a small town with a big heart. Home to the Dalai Lama and a large Tibetan community, McLeodganj is a blend of spirituality, culture, and natural beauty. It’s one of the more popular offbeat Himachal destinations, featuring attractions like Namgyal Monastery, Tsuglagkhang Complex, and Bhagsu Waterfall.
You can reach McLeodganj easily from Dharamshala by bus or taxi. In addition to exploring Tibetan monasteries and local handicrafts, visitors can head to Dharamkot for meditation and yoga retreats. With its unique atmosphere, McLeodganj is a destination you won’t want to miss among offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh.
Wander Ready: McleodGanj Road Trip
Triund
For a stunning trek with incredible mountain views, Triund is the place to be. Starting from McLeodganj, this trek is beginner-friendly, making it a popular camping spot. The path offers sweeping views of the Dhauladhar Range, and reaching the top feels like standing on the edge of the world. Camping here under the starry sky is a magical experience.
To get to Triund, start from either Bhagsu Nag or Gallu Devi Temple. The 3-4 hour trek is rewarding with breathtaking scenery at every turn, making Triund one of the best offbeat places in Himachal for a trekking adventure.
Bound Free: Triund Trek
These offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh are perfect weekend getaways for those looking to escape the chaos of everyday life. As some of the best offbeat places in Himachal, these spots let you experience the true spirit of mountain life on a budget, making them ideal for weekend warriors in need of a quick, refreshing getaway. So pack your bags and set off to explore these offbeat Himachal treasures—you’ll come back with a heart full of memories and a camera loaded with stunning shots of Himachal’s hidden beauty!
Offbeat Places in Himachal FAQs
Where is the offbeat place in Himachal Pradesh?
Himachal Pradesh is home to many offbeat places, including Kheerganga, Grahan, Tosh, and Jispa. These are some of the best offbeat places in Himachal that present untouched beauty, scenic treks, and serene vibes to travelers. These offbeat locations in Himachal are perfect for travelers seeking peace away from the usual crowds.
Which is the No. 1 tourist place in Himachal Pradesh?
While Manali and Shimla remain popular, the best offbeat places in Himachal like Triund and Solang are rising as prime tourist spots. These off beat places in Himachal Pradesh combine adventure and tranquility, making them equally sought after by nature lovers and trekkers.
What is unique in Himachal Pradesh?
Himachal Pradesh is unique for its culminating adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty. It boasts mesmerizing offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh, from hot springs in Kheerganga to Tibetan culture in McLeodganj. Himachal offbeat places are also renowned for untouched forests, vibrant villages, and breathtaking mountain views.
What are the exotic places in Shimla?
Shimla has several offbeat locations in Himachal that are exotic, such as Kufri, Narkanda, and Mashobra. These spots offer snow-clad peaks, dense deodar forests, and peaceful retreats, making them some of the best offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh for travelers.
Which part of Himachal is most beautiful?
While the entire state is stunning, regions like the Parvati Valley, Lahaul, and Kangra feature some of the best offbeat places in Himachal. These areas, including spots like Jispa and Grahan, highlight the raw charm of offbeat Himachal.
Where can I go stargazing in Himachal?
Jispa, Triund, and Tosh are some of the offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh known for clear night skies, perfect for stargazing. These offbeat locations in Himachal offer a unique celestial experience away from city lights.
Which are the coldest places in Himachal Pradesh?
Spiti Valley, Keylong, and Jispa are among the coldest places in Himachal Pradesh. These offbeat Himachal regions are ideal for winter enthusiasts looking for snow-filled adventures and serene offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh.
Explore the best of Himachal with our Weekend Getaway Package