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Enquiry : +41 79 937 33 20

Email : [email protected]

Discovering Himachal Pradesh – A Land of Natural Beauty and Cultural Richness

Nestled in the majestic indian Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh is a breathtaking state that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and adventure. Known for its lush valleys, snow-capped peaks, and ancient temples, Himachal Pradesh is a paradise for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.

Our tours typically focus on exploring the scenic Kullu and Kangra Valleys and the remote beauty of Spiti Valley, offering you a chance to experience the diverse landscapes and cultures of Himachal Pradesh. In addition, we often integrate visits to Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj, the home of the Dalai Lama, or the colonial charm of Shimla, providing a well-rounded glimpse into the state's fascinating history, spiritual ambiance, and breathtaking views.

Important information

Kullu Valley, often referred to as the "Valley of Gods," is one of the most popular destinations in Himachal Pradesh. Surrounded by towering peaks, lush meadows, and rivers, Kullu is the perfect base for exploring traditional villages, trekking, and indulging in adventure sports such as white-water rafting, trekking, and paragliding.

Our tours allow you to immerse yourself in the valley's vibrant cultural life, including its famous Kullu Dussehra festival, a celebration of local customs and religious traditions. The Kullu region is also the starting point for many trekking routes, including the scenic Great Himalayan National Park.

The Kangra Valley is another major highlight of our tours, where visitors can explore its historical temples, lush tea gardens, and the breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar Range. The valley is steeped in history, with ancient landmarks like the Kangra Fort and the Brijeshwari Temple, making it an ideal destination for history buffs and those looking to experience the region’s rich spiritual culture.

The valley is also home to the famed Baijnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and Masrur Rock Cut Temples, unique monolithic temples carved from solid rock. A visit to the Kangra Valley offers a chance to connect with the local Pahari culture, the people of which have preserved their traditions and crafts for centuries.

For those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, Spiti Valley offers a unique and remote escape into the rugged terrains of Himachal Pradesh. Known as "Little Tibet," Spiti is a high-altitude desert valley with stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and a fascinating Buddhist culture.

Our tours to Spiti Valley take you to highlights such as Key Monastery, Tabo Monastery (often referred to as the "Ajanta of the Himalayas"), and the serene Chandratal Lake. Spiti offers a perfect combination of cultural exploration and adventure, with opportunities for trekking, camping, and experiencing the peace of this remote region.

A visit to Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj is a highlight of many of our tours. Dharamsala, the administrative headquarters of Himachal Pradesh, is also the spiritual center for Tibetan Buddhism, as it is the residence of the Dalai Lama.

McLeod Ganj, just above Dharamsala, is famous for its Tibetan monasteries, colorful Tibetan market, and the Dalai Lama Temple. Our tours allow you to experience the peaceful and spiritual environment of the area, with visits to monasteries like Namgyal Monastery and a chance to learn about Tibetan culture and heritage.

Often included as part of our itinerary, Shimla is one of the most famous hill stations in India. Known for its colonial architecture, lush green hills, and panoramic views of the Himalayas, Shimla is a perfect mix of natural beauty and historic charm. Visitors can stroll along the Mall Road, visit the Ridge, or take a toy train ride on the Kalka-Shimla Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Shimla also serves as a perfect starting point to explore nearby destinations in the region.

  • For Spiti, Lahaul & Kinnaur: From July to October.
  • For the districts Kullu, Manali, Shimla, Palampur and Dharamsala: March to September
  • The monsoon starts in late June. In July and August the heavy rainfall cause south of Spiti and Kinnaur erosion and landslides.
  • The best time for trekking is from May to end of October.

In the extreme northwest of India, bordering with Tibet in the east, with the Indian state of Punjab in the south west, with Haryana and Uttar Pradesh in the south, and Uttarakhand in the southeast, as well as with Ladakh / Jammu and Kashmir in the north and northwest.

Area : 55.673 km2
Population : 7.520'000(2024) / 123 pro km2
Capital : Shimla
Districts : 12 Districts: Bilaspur, Chamba, Hamirpur, Kangra, Kinnaur, Kullu, Lahaul and Spiti, Mandi, Sirmaur, Shimla, Solan and Una.
Topography : Himachal Pradesh is situated in the Himalayas at an altitude of 350 m above sea level to 6975 above sea level, and continuously rises from west to east, as well as from south to north. The state begins on the fringes of the northern Indian lowlands, and extends across the Shivalik mountains, and the valleys which are green in the monsoon area, between the first high mountain ranges, to regions that geographically belong to Tibet (Spiti, upper Lahaul and upper Kinnaur). The border areas in the north are dominated by high passes, which are covered with snow from mid-October to mid-July, the permanent snowline is at 5000 m above sea level. The rivers Chenab, Ravi, Bea, Sutlej and Yamuna traverse the region, and are flowing to the Indus and the Ganges.
Vegetation : From about 450 to 900 m above sea level prevails a subtropical vegetation with rain forests made of fig trees, teak and bamboo. Thereafter 900-1800 m above sea level is the climate temperate, and fir trees, Himalayan cedar Cedrus deodara, oaks and rhododendron make the tree population. From 1900 to 2400 m above sea level finally it is cooler, the woods are thinner and are made of chestnut, oak, an increasing number of birch trees and a few coniferous trees. The height between 2400-4800 meters above sea level finally is cold and alpine, the woods withdraw and the vegetation is lower, here juniper is widespread. The tree line is at about 3300 m above sea level. Overall, about 60% of the region is covered with by vast, intact forests.
Wildlife : Similarly broad as the flora is also the fauna in Himachal Pradesh: more than 30 species of mammals, 200 species of birds, reptiles, amphibians and countless insects live here. Rare anmals are surely the snow leopard, the dzu-the (the Himalayan brown bear Ursus arctos isabellinus), the blue sheep and the Himalayan thar (a species of goat). Ornithologists are pleased about sightings of various woodpeckers and finches, the Himalayan Monal (Lophophorus impejanus) and also the enthusiasts for exotic butterflies really will really be dazzled.
Climate : The year is divided into 3 seasons: summer (warm) March to June; Monsoon (rainy and warm): July to September; Winter (cold, especially at night and early in the morning): October to February. Because of the extreme height differences, the state has subtropical to subarctic climate zones.
Temperatures : In the lower regions from -5 ° C in December to 35 ° C in June. The central regions have temperatures between 5 ° C and 25 ° C in the course of the year, in the high altitudes permanently cooler.
Rainfall : From 500 to 2500 mm, depending on the altitude and the district, most of the precipitation falls during the monsoon season from late June to late August.
Languages : The national language is Hindi, Pahari (in various dialects) is also widespread, Punjabi and Nepali. In Spiti, Kinnaur and Lahaul a language is spoken which is related to the Tibetan, a dialect of Ladakhi. English as a foreign language is quite widespread.
Ethnicities : imately 90% are Brahmins, Rajputs, Kannets, Rathis and Kolis. Moreover Gaddis (traditional herders who migrate from the alpine pastures into the lower regions in winter), Kinnars, Gujjars (Buffalo nomads), Pangawals, Lahaulis and Tibetans.
Religions : Hindus (~ 90 %) with Brahmins, Rajputs, Kannets, Rathis and Kolis. In Spiti and Lahaul: Tibetan Buddhism. In Thanedar and Kotgarh also Christianity, moreover Sikhs.
Economy : The economy is based mainly on tourism and apple cultivation. Kullu, Manali, Shimla, Palampur and Dharamshala are among the well-known tourist destinations. There are also two large cement factories and many service companies. The majority of the population lives from agriculture, especially from fruit production.
Getting their : Flight to Delhi in India. From there by train to Chandigarh. From Chandigarh by jeep to Himachal Pradesh. Shimla can be reached from Delhi by bus, train and by air.
Visa / Entry permit : To enter India, a visa is required. In addition, an entry permit for Spiti, this entry permit is being organized by us. For trekking in national parks, further authorizations are needed, which we are happy to organize

The people of Himachal Pradesh are deeply religious, with Hinduism dominating the southern regions, where the caste system remains intact, and authentic Tibetan Buddhism found in the sparsely populated northeast. The state is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups and communities. Around 93% of the population is engaged in agriculture, with the majority of land owned by higher Hindu castes such as Rajputs, Brahmins, and Mahajans, who also dominate the state's political and economic life. About a quarter of the population belongs to lower castes, many of whom are skilled craftsmen who traditionally show deep respect for the higher castes, a value rooted in Hindu customs.

Himachali people strongly believe in the laws of karma, which dictate that both good and bad deeds influence one's life and the next incarnation. As a result, the crime rate is low, and many homes are left unlocked. Idle land in and around villages is considered communal property (Shamlat). Many people, both Hindus and Buddhists, view nature as infused with supernatural powers. The Himalayan mountains are revered as gods, and forests, streams, and rocks are believed to possess mystical energies.

People also worship local gods, protective deities, fairies, and other supernatural beings. Animal sacrifices are commonly performed during religious rites, including weddings, funerals, and harvest festivals, with dance and music used to invoke the gods. Guru Padmasambhava, who spread Buddhism in Tibet during the 8th century, lived near Mandi, a central district in Himachal Pradesh. A temple dedicated to him still exists today. Lamas offer meditation, mantra recitation, spiritual advice, and Tibetan healing practices to visitors.

The region is also linguistically diverse. While Hindi is the official language and spoken by the majority, various dialects are also prevalent. Pahari is the most widespread, though different regions have their own variations of Sanskrit. In areas like Spiti, Kinnaur, and Lahaul, people speak dialects related to Tibetan, such as Ladakhi. English is also commonly understood.

The popular recipes are influenced from Punjab and Tibet. In addition to the staple food rice, chicken curry, lentils and vegetable dishes with pickles belong to the daily food of the locals. Besides this, local specialties such as pateer, chouck, bhagjery and chutney are widely used. Popular are also Tibetan dishes such as momos (dumplings with meat or vegetable filling), chowmein (a noodle dish) or thukpa (noodle soup). There are also many more local specialties. In Spiti, roasted barley flour (tsampa) is the staple food. Also as a European traveler, one can eat deliciously in Himachal Pradesh, the selection offers something for every taste. It is important not to consume unpeeled or uncooked fruits and vegetables, because the widespread bacteria here are alien to our organism.

The height differences in Himachal Pradesh are quite pronounced, and the topography brings forth a wide variety of vegetation and wildlife. Until about 900 m above sea level the climate is subtropical, and rainforests of teak, fig and especially bamboo cover the land. Particularly In these forests are many iridescent birds to be seen, especially woodpeckers and finches are common, and one can explore encounter many butterflies and a variety of colourful moths . A few large mammals such as elephants, rhinoes and leopards also live here - their populations are now unfortunately limited to designated sites. Only the monkeys make noise in a widespread way through the treetops.

In the medium altitude up to about 1800 m above sea level, the forest is changing, deciduous trees such as oak and chestnut trees are interspersed by Rhododendron, cedars and firs, so that mixed woodland predominates. Here lives the himalayan brown bear, a rare species, whose sighting will delight wildlife enthusiasts. The higher you go, the thinner the forests are, birches complement the trees or are increasingly standing alone in vast grasslands, which are permeated by alpine herbs and flowers. Here live mainly goats and sheep like the himalayan thar and blue sheep (Pseudois nayaur). On this level you can also find the rare Himalayan monal, and very rarely also the now nearly extinct snow leopard.

The magnificent nature of Himachal Pradesh can be experienced in two national parks and 32 sanctuaries to experience the flora and fauna in its original beauty. Almost 70% of the land area is forested, of which about 90% is designated as protected area. Endangered animals like snow leopards, bearded vultures and the rare siberian ibex live here.

Pin-Valley-National Park

The secluded Pin Valley, a side valley in the former Kingdom of Spiti, is since 1987 a National Park. It comprises several mountain ranges of the Himalayas from 3700 m to 6600 m. Above 5000 m, the National Park is covered with snow all year round. In the sparse vegetation are snow leopards, wolves, mountain goats, foxes, weasels, marmots and some other animals at home.

Great Himalayan National Park

The area, to which the access is to the west, is surrounded on three sides by the Himalayas. Covering an area of 620 km² of snowcapped peaks, glaciers, river valleys, fields of flowers can be found, and dense forests where pine, cedar, oak as well bamboo are growing. To the abundant wildlife, belong among other mountain goats, sheep, wolves, macaques, leopards, brown and black bear, snow leopard and many species of birds.

Those who want to do trekking on holiday are very well cared for in Himachal Pradesh, but also day hikes or slightly longer walks with a comfortable base are marvelously possible here, and allow a view of exotic landscapes and spectacular scenery with white mountain giants. Due to the variety of the landscape, the trekking routes are also ideal to be adapted to personal interests and capabilities.

Physical Challenge Designation & Territory Maximum Height Duration Type of Accommodation Information / Description
Hiking
Easy to Moderate Kinnaur Hikes & Treks 2750 - 3600 metres 2 – 8 hours Mountain cabin or comfortable safari tent Discover the alpine flora of the Himalayas, the pine forests, glaciers, rivers, and remote villages. Enjoy the fantastic mountain panorama.
Trekking up to 4800 metres
Easy to Moderate Spiti Yak-Trekking amongst Asia's highest villages 4500 metres 2 - 3 days Homestay Discover the Tibetan heritage in high-altitude villages and the world of the yak herders.
Trekking up to 5600 metres
Moderate Kinnaur to Spiti 4870 metres 5 days Tent This trekking route leads you from the lush valleys in Kinnaur to the barren desert of Spiti. Meet shepherds along the way and experience dramatic changes in climate, vegetation, and civilizations.
Demanding Kibber to Tsomoriri (Spiti, Himachal & Ladakh) 5588 metres 9 days Camp Visit monasteries, remote villages, and isolated mountain lakes while enjoying Ladakh’s spectacular Himalayan scenery. This route crosses high mountain passes and is ideal from mid-August to late September.
Mountaineering Above 5600 metres
Moderate Mt. Kanamo / Spiti 5974 metres 10 days Tent Mount Kanamo, known as the "White Lady," is an easier peak for mountaineers. The north side has the Kanamo glacier, while the south is a scree slope. The region is rich in wildlife, including blue sheep, Himalayan ibex, Tibetan wolves, and snow leopards. The summit offers breathtaking views of the Tibetan plateau and Cho Cho Kang Nilda.

From the earliest times onwards, the area of the present-day Himachal Pradesh was inhabited by tribes such as the Koilis, Halis, Dagis, Dasa and Kirats. They lived a rural life and had a fairly peaceful coexistence. In the year of 1009 BC then the Turkish commander Mahmud of Ghazni invaded the area, and plundered the temples in the north, many historical documents and works of art were destroyed and deported. In 1773 the Hindu Rajputs took over the rule, and Himachal Pradesh was given the favor of the royal patronage of the Mughals. But the attack of the Maharaja Ranjit Singh ended already in 1804 the rule of the Rajputs.

The Gurkhas, who have been immigrating from Nepal, conquered the area afterwards and caused again great destruction. During the early 19th century British India eventually expanded its influence and annexed after the Gurkha War of 1815-1816 parts of the district Shimla. The district of Kangra was annexed in 1846 after the Anglo-Sikh war by British India. After India's independence in 1947, the present-day Himachal became incorporated into the Punjab (then a province of British India), in 1948 a part became a centrally governed state territory of India. In the years until 1966 additional areas were added.

The remaining Himachal was consisting of princely states, which extended over six mountains until November 1966. Then it has been extended by incorporating mountain towns like Shimla, Kangra, Kullu, Lahaul and Spiti. Himachal Pradesh, with the capital Shimla, was eventually divided into 10 districts and incorporated into the Republic of India on 25 January 1971, as the 18th state.

Himachal Pradesh is one of the most well-developed mountain regions of India. For example, much has been invested in the construction of a road network and the electricity grid is developed almost everywhere. The state has a functioning educational system, which secures the future. The agricultural yields cover almost the whole domestic use. The gardens of Himachal Pradesh are known beyond the country's borders, and the forest land came under protection and was further enlarged in recent years, mainly due to the efforts of the population. The region is a role model for all the other Indian mountain regions.

Throughout the year, diverse festivities with local character take place in the districts. Kulu for example is famous for its Dussehra festival wich is held each spring. The images of the Mountain Gods are brought down from the villages into the city, accompanied by parades, dance and music - a colorful and joyous festival that will also delight visitors.

January
  • Lohri: Celebrated mainly in the Kullu Valley and other parts of Himachal Pradesh, Lohri marks the end of winter and the beginning of the harvest season. Bonfires, singing, and dancing are central to the celebration.
  • Makar Sankranti: A significant festival in the region, Makar Sankranti is celebrated with kite flying, bonfires, and community feasts, especially in the plains and Kullu Valley.
February/March
  • Shivratri: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this festival is especially grand in Kullu, where the Kullu Shivratri Festival is celebrated with processions, music, dance, and the worship of Lord Shiva.
  • Losar (Tibetan New Year): Celebrated mainly in the Tibetan Buddhist regions of Himachal Pradesh, including Dharamsala and Spiti, Losar marks the Tibetan New Year with prayers, cultural dances, and rituals.
  • Phagli: Celebrated in the Kullu Valley, marking the end of winter and the arrival of spring.
March
  • Holi: Celebrated with enthusiasm across Himachal Pradesh, Holi marks the arrival of spring. It is particularly colorful in towns like Shimla and Kullu, where people play with colors and participate in community gatherings.
April
  • Baisakhi: A harvest festival celebrated with much fanfare, especially in the agricultural regions of Himachal Pradesh. The day is marked by fairs, dancing, and prayers for good harvests.
  • Himachal Day: A state holiday commemorating the formation of Himachal Pradesh as a separate state. Various cultural programs and events are held across the state.
  • Buddha Jayanti: Celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha, this festival is particularly significant in Buddhist areas like Spiti and Dharamsala, where prayer meetings and processions are organized.
June
  • Sankranti (Ganga Dussehra): Celebrated along the river banks, this festival marks the descent of the Ganges. People take ritual baths, offer prayers, and celebrate with processions.
August
  • Teej: Celebrated mainly by women, Teej marks the monsoon season. Women fast and pray for the well-being of their husbands, and traditional songs and dances are part of the celebrations, especially in the Kullu and Kangra regions.
  • Chamba Rajma Festival: A celebration of the famous Chamba Rajma (a type of kidney bean) harvest, this festival includes local food fairs, agricultural displays, and cultural performances in the Chamba region.
September
  • Sair Festival: A traditional harvest festival celebrated in the Kangra Valley, featuring folk music, dances, and cultural performances.
September/October
  • Navratri: This festival is celebrated over nine days, dedicated to Goddess Durga, with fasting, prayers, and cultural performances. Fairs and processions are also held in various parts of the state.
  • Dussehra: Dussehra in Himachal Pradesh, particularly in Kullu, is celebrated in a grand and unique manner, with processions, music, and dances. The Kullu Dussehra Festival attracts tourists from around the world.
  • Kullu Dussehra: A major festival held annually in Kullu Valley, this week-long event features processions, cultural performances, and religious rituals in honor of Lord Raghunath.
October/November
  • Diwali: The festival of lights is celebrated throughout Himachal Pradesh. People decorate their homes with oil lamps (diyas), burst fireworks, and exchange sweets. It is a time of joy and renewal.
Other Regional Festivals
  • Bhuri Singh Museum Festival : Held in Chamba, it celebrates local art and culture with exhibitions, performances, and handicraft displays.

Many of these festivals reflect the rich cultural diversity, traditions, and beliefs of Himachal Pradesh, with a blend of Hindu and Buddhist customs. The timing of some festivals may vary depending on the lunar calendar.

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