When you’re looking for the offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh, this list of hidden gems and non-commercialised escapes is exactly what you need for your next summer trip. Whether you’re seeking peace, alpine beauty, or cultural authenticity, Himachal Pradesh never disappoints. This summer, go beyond the usual spots and discover a mix of secret hamlets and serene valleys, with the help of the Explurger app, where seasoned travellers and explorers share real-time updates, offbeat trails, and exclusive insights.
In this blog, we’re taking you beyond the usual. We’ve curated a mix of 20 offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh this summer: 10 lesser-known yet not-too-touristy gems, and 10 truly off-the-grid wonders you’ve probably never even heard of.
10 Known but Non-Commercialised Offbeat Places in Himachal Pradesh
1. KALPA
Kalpa is an enchanting village in Kinnaur district known for its panoramic view of the Kinnaur Kailash range. Despite being on the map, it has maintained its raw, untouched charm. One of the most beautiful offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh for every kind of traveler.
How to reach: Public or private transport is available from Shimla.
2. GUSHANI
Overshadowed by Jibhi and Shojha, this village in Tirthan valley is a beautiful escape. This valley serves as the gateway to the Great Himalayan National Park and is perfect for trekkers and peace seekers.
How to reach: Take the bus to Aut, then drive to Gushaini.
3. RAKCHHAM
Overshadowed by Chitkul and Sangla, Rakchham is often bypassed, but equally (if not more) stunning. The Baspa river slices through meadows, pine forests rise like spires, and the surrounding mountains feel like guardians of silence. You might have come across this gem in Spiti itineraries, but not often do you see it as a whole destination when it comes to offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh, only something enroute. Well, it’s time to change that.
How to reach: It is well connected to Shimla and can be accessed via road transport.
4. BAROT VALLEY
Still a well-kept secret among trekkers, Barot Valley is famed for its trout hatchery, cedar forests, and riverside campsites. It’s peaceful, with no fancy resorts or loud cafes, just you, the Uhl River, and the scent of the Himalayas.
How to reach: Take a train or bus to Mandi or Joginder Nagar, then a taxi to Barot
5. JANJEHLI
This lesser-known gem in Mandi is perfect if you want to hike, chill in meadows, and hear some local folk tales. This is the gateway to Shikari Devi and other treks. It’s an eco-tourism paradise and one of the greenest offbeat places near Manali.
How to Reach: About 100 km from Mandi town via road.
6. KARSOG
One of those offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh, which is ancient, tranquil and spiritually rich. Visit the 6,000-year-old Mamleshwar Mahadev Temple and get the rural Himachali experience. It’s calm, culturally rich, and one of those places in Himachal where you’ll feel time slow down.
How to Reach: 108 km from Shimla; easily accessible via road.
7. NAKO
Now you have come across Nako in Spiti itineraries for sure. Sitting at over 12,000 feet, Nako is a high-altitude wonder with its serene lake and ancient monastery, basically a slice of Tibet in Himachal, a serene and quiet gem among offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh, just teasing you with its beauty.
How to Reach: Hire a cab from Reckong Peo to Nako, or alternatively, go for HRTC routes.
8. KARERI
This village near Dharamshala is a trekker’s dream. The Kareri Lake trek is an absolute must. This is one of those places to visit in Himachal that’s quickly gaining traction as Himachal Pradesh tourist places, so hurry up before the crowd comes.
How to Reach: 26 km from Dharamshala. Local taxis or hikes are available.
9. KANGRA
As if the snowy mountains are right in front of you, to reach out, that’s how Kangra feels. The Kangra Fort, Masroor rock-cut temples, and vibrant miniature paintings are some of the prominent Himachal sightseeing places for cultural travellers. But also, there are tea gardens, waterfalls, and old Himachali homes.
How to reach: The nearest major city is Dharamshala. Kangra is 20 km from there.
10. NARGHOTA
Narghota is like Himachal’s best-kept viewpoint. Located near Palampur, it’s blessed with surreal views of the Dhauladhar range. With very few tourists, it’s one of those hidden gems of Himachal Pradesh where you can meditate, paint, or just vibe with the mountains.
How to reach: From Dharamshala or Palampur, take a short drive or hike up to Narghota.
Now that we have covered some known yet non-commercialized offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh, let’s move on to.
10 truly off-the-grid wonders you’ve probably never even heard of- Offbeat Places in Himachal Pradesh
1. KIARIGHAT
Most folks just zip past Kiarighat on their way to other lesser-known Himachal tourist attractions like Shimla, not knowing it’s actually a legit hidden retreat. Think pine trees dripping with mist, vintage forest guesthouses, and vibes from a forgotten colonial postcard.
How to reach: On the Shimla-Kalka highway, 27 km before Shimla. Easy by car or bus.
2. DHARWAS
Nestled in the remote Pangi Valley, Dharwas feels like the edge of the world. Snow-capped cliffs, rickety wooden bridges, and valleys carved by ancient glaciers, it is truly one of the hidden gems when it comes to offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh.
How to reach: Reach Killar in Pangi Valley, from there, Dharwas is a short ride.
3. BATSERI
A picturesque village with cobbled alleys, traditional Himachali homes, and a temple so detailed it’ll make your jaw drop. No loud music, just chirping birds and the sound of the Baspa River. One of the most aesthetic hidden gems of Himachal Pradesh.
How to reach: Drive to Sangla, then take a short walk or a cab to Batseri.
4. TINDI
Not Tandi in Tirthan Valley, although that itself is a wonderful hidden gem in Himachal. Tindi sits in the dark, deep corners of Lahaul and is completely cut off from the chaos. You’ll find tiny wooden houses, smiling locals, and snow pretty much half the year. A peaceful, secluded vibe makes this one of the coziest offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh.
How to Reach: Drive from Keylong.
5. KUTHAR
Kuthar offers heritage feels with a nature twist. It has an old fort that’s picture-ready, pine walks that are never crowded, and views that stretch all the way to Shimla’s skyline.
How to reach: On the Solan-Shimla route. Cabs and buses from Solan.
6. KHARAPATHAR
Just quiet apple orchards and a few honest smiles from locals. Kharapathar is where you slow down, soak in nature, and maybe write a poem or two. The untouched vibe makes it one of the softest offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh.
How to reach: From Shimla, it’s approximately an 80 km drive. Buses and taxis are available.
7. DEHAN KHAS
Hardly any substantial information to be found about this hidden gem in Himachal online; it serves as a quaint retreat perched on a cliff in the Rohru circuit. It offers insane views, untouched cedar forests, and ancient oral folklore. The village is sparsely populated and doesn’t even have concrete roads, only trails.
How to Reach: You can take public buses from Palampur.
8. SHANSHA
This Lahauli hamlet is like nature whispering to your soul. Glaciers in the distance, prayer flags fluttering, and air so clean it feels unreal. With barely any visitors, Shansha offers meditative solitude and ranks as one of the quietest offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh.
How to reach: From Keylong, it’s a 40 km drive. Best in summer.
9. CHHATARI
Near Chamba, Chhatrari is a mountaintop village known for its ancient Shakti temple and stunning wooden architecture. It’s a spiritual experience surrounded by alpine views. A cultural gem among the best off beat places in Himachal.
How to reach: From Chamba, a scenic 45 km drive will take you to Chhatrari.
10. KHOKHAN
Ever heard of Khokhan? Exactly. Tucked behind Bhuntar and overshadowed by Kasol and Manali, this village is surrounded by thick deodar forests and terraced apple orchards. It’s also home to the Khokhan Devi Temple as well as Khokhan Wildlife Sanctuary.
How to reach: From Kullu, it’s a 19km distance, and you can use public transport.
Final Thoughts: Offbeat Places to Visit In Himachal Pradesh
You have officially been told about the untouched offbeat places in Himachal, from the quiet town to unmapped wilderness. These 20 gems remind us that the mountains aren’t just backdrops, they’re characters in your story. So explore with intention, respect the locals, and let nature work its quiet magic. These are the spots that don’t show up on “Top 10” lists. The kind where Google asks, “Are you sure this is a road?” and locals greet you with warm smiles and hot chai.
Use Explurger to log where you’ve been, Bucket List where you want to go next, and share the unheard stories that don’t show up in mainstream travel reels. Your journey to the underrated hidden gems of Himachal Pradesh isn’t just another trip; it’s a crazy adventure.
So here’s your cue: share this blog in the group chat, pack a bag, and head off to these off beat places in Himachal that no one’s posted about… yet.
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Faq’s About places to visit in Himachal
2. What are some must-visit places to visit in Himachal for offbeat travelers?
Along with the usual spots, there are several hidden gems like Kalpa, Gushaini, Nako, and Batseri. These lesser-known places to visit in Himachal offer peace, scenic views, and authentic local experiences without the tourist crowds.
3. Which month is best for the Himachal Tour?
Except for Monsoons, every season has its own specialty. March to June and September to November are ideal for most Himachal sightseeing places. Winters are magical too, especially in higher altitudes, just prepare for permits, road closures and freezing temps.
4. Which is the most visited place in Himachal?
Shimla, Manali, Kasol, Dharamshala have been done and dusted with overtourism.
5. Is it safe to travel to remote villages in Himachal Pradesh?
Yes, most areas are safe, especially if you travel in daylight and check the weather beforehand. Locals in these Himachal tourist attractions are usually welcoming. Still, carry essentials, stay informed, and always have offline maps handy.