Lush green valleys, sparkling rivers, and snow-capped mighty Himalayas add charm to the breathtaking vistas of Himachal Pradesh. A family trip to such an amazing destination is magical and enjoyable. There are a plethora of fun-filled activities to do in Himachal Pradesh with kids in 2024.
A trip to Himachal Pradesh with family in summer can be as thrilling for children as it is for adults. This beautiful state is blessed with scenic landscapes, high-altitude mountain passes, sprawling meadows, glistening lakes, and gushing waterfalls. The paradisiacal beauty of this state attracts a large number of tourists from all over the world.
Soothing and pleasant weather makes the hill stations in Himachal Pradesh the perfect escape from the scorching summer. The overwhelming landscapes and exciting holiday activities make the vacation memorable.
Here is the list of some of the 20 best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in summer with family:
- Shimla
- Kullu- Manali
- Dharamshala
- Dalhousie
- Rohtang Pass
- Chail
- Khajjiar
- Mcleod Ganj
- Solan
- Chamba
- Kasauli
- Spiti Valley
- Solang Valley
- Kufri
- Mandi
- Mashobra
- Palampur
- Kalpa
- Kangra
- Shoghi
1. Shimla
Nestled at an altitude of 2,276 m above sea level in the foothills of the Himalayas, Shimla is the erstwhile summer capital of British India. This hill town is popular among families for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
It is a perfect escape from the scorching heat, which makes Shimla among the best places to visit during summer 2024. Families can spend quality time amidst lush greenery and relax in the soothing climate of this amazing hill station.
- Average Temperature of Shimla: 15⁰ C to 30⁰ C
- Places to visit in Shimla: Mall Road, The Ridge, Kufri, Naldehra, Mashobra, Tattapani, Chail, Christ Church, Green Valley
- Things to do in Shimla: Shopping at Mall Road, trek to Jakhoo Temple, horse ride in Kufri, try Polo at Annandale, toy train ride from Shimla to Kalka
- How to reach Shimla: The nearest railway station is Shimla railway station and the nearest major railhead is Kalka railway station (86 km). Jubbarhatti Airport is the nearest airport (21 km).
2. Kullu- Manali
Located on the bank of the Beas River and at an altitude of 2,050 m above sea level, Kullu-Manali is a popular Himalayan resort town with the backdrop of snow-clad peaks. There are several best places to visit in Kullu-Manali in April to relax and unwind amidst the green mountains.
The weather remains pleasant and it is one of the best getaways from the scorching heat of the plains. Most of the kids are fascinated with adventure activities that can allow them to enjoy nature and have fun.
[ Check out our Manali family tour packages. ]
- Average Temperature of Kullu-Manali: 10⁰ C to 25⁰ C
- Places to visit in Kullu-Manali: Solang Valley, Naggar Castle, Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Vashisht Temple, Old Manali, Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara
- Things to do in Kullu-Manali: River rafting, trekking, camping, angling, bird watching at Manali Bird Sanctuary, zorbing, horse riding, paraglidin
- How to reach Kullu-Manali: The nearest major railway station is Chandigarh railway station (298 km). Bhuntar Airport is the nearest airport (51 km).
[ Take a look at the Best Places to Visit in Kullu Manali. ]
3. Dharamshala
Popularly known as ‘Little Lhasa in India’ and portrays the rich Tibetan culture, Dharamshala is a paradise for peace lovers. The bustling markets, majestic monasteries, and lush green environs make this quaint little town among the most popular family holiday destinations in Himachal Pradesh.
Further reading: Best Time To Visit Dharamshala
Lying in the lap of the mighty Dhauladhar range, Dharamshala is home to one of the highest cricket grounds in the world. This hill town is a popular center of meditation and peace, a large number of tourists visit here to seek enlightenment.
- Average Temperature of Dharamshala: 16⁰ C to 27⁰ C
- Places to visit in Dharamshala: Sherabling Monastery, Mcleodganj, Triund, Cricket Stadium, St. John in the Wilderness Church, War Memorial, Gyuto Monastery, Dal Lake, Bhagsunag Falls
- Things to do in Dharamshala: Trekking, camping, boat ride in Dal Lake, shopping, meditation in the monastery, cycling
- How to reach Dharamshala: The nearest major railway station is Pathankot railway station (85 km). Pathankot Airport is the nearest airport (86 km).
Browse through our Complete Himachal Tour Package
4. Dalhousie
A paradise tucked away in the lap of Dhauladhar ranges and spread across five high-altitude hills, Dalhousie is a perfect destination for a family holiday in Himachal Pradesh. This idyllic hill town is blessed with soothing and comfortable weather throughout the year due to which it attracts a large number of tourists across the country. Dalhousie boasts about old-world charm, colonial architectural marvels, sprawling meadows, pine-clad valleys, and misty mountains.
- Average Temperature of Dalhousie: 11⁰ C to 23⁰ C
- Places to visit in Dalhousie: Dainkund, Panchpulla, Khajjiar, Satdhara Falls, St. John Church, Chamera Lake, Chamba, Rock Garden
- Things to do in Dalhousie: Trekking, camping, boat ride in Chamera Lake, rafting, rock climbing, shopping, zorbing, paragliding, horse riding
- How to reach Dalhousie: The nearest major railway station is Pathankot railway station (82 km). Pathankot Airport is the nearest airport (87 km).
5. Rohtang Pass
One of the high altitude mountain passes in India, Rohtang Pass is located at the end of the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas. It connects Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys. Rohtang Pass is a popular tourist destination to visit in Himachal in June 2024 with family. It is a paradise for adventure lovers. There are several activities which are specially designed for tourists of all ages.
- Average Temperature of Rohtang Pass: 20⁰ C to 32⁰ C
- Places to visit in Rohtang Pass: Manali, Solang Valley, Vashisht Temple, Jogini Waterfall, Nehru Kund
- Things to do in Rohtang Pass: Trekking, skiing, zorbing and paragliding in Solang Valley, river rafting in Manali, snow scooters
- How to reach Rohtang Pass: The nearest major railway station is Chandigarh railway station (350 km). Bhuntar Airport is the nearest airport (110 km).
6. Chail
Renowned for its salubrious beauty and architectural marvels, Chail is the erstwhile summer capital of Patiala kings. Situated at an altitude of 2,350 m above sea level, Chail is surrounded by pine and deodar forests. Overlooking Kasauli and Shimla, Chail is spread across three hillocks – Sadh Tibba, Pandewa, and Rajgarh.
Suggested reading: Best Time to Visit Chail
This quaint little town is a perfect place to relish the charm of the bygone era and delight in the tranquility of nature, which makes it among the most popular places to visit in Himachal in July 2024. Also, home to the world’s highest cricket stadium, Chail is a paradise for nature lovers.
Explore more: Things to do in Chail
- Average Temperature of Chail: 12⁰ C to 24⁰ C
- Places to visit in Chail: Cricket Stadium, Chail Palace, Kali Temple, Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, Sidh Baba Temple, Himalayan Nature Park
- Things to do in Chail: Horse riding, bird watching, camping, trekking, mountain biking
- How to reach Chail: The nearest railhead is Kalka railway station (77 km) and the nearest major railhead is Chandigarh railway station (100 km). Jubbarhatti Airport, Shimla is the nearest airport (63 km).
7. Khajjiar
Renowned as ‘Mini Switzerland’, Khajjiar is a perfect place for rejuvenation of body, mind, and soul. The peaceful environs, thick carpet of pine and deodar trees, snow-crested mountains, and green rolling hills can leave anyone in a completely dazed and flattering state.
Khajjiar is a perfect place for a summer family holiday in Himachal Pradesh due to its stunning beauty and picturesque landscapes. Sprawling meadows sprinkled with wildflowers, salubrious weather, and the natural charm of these places make it an amazing summer destination for families.
- Average Temperature of Khajjiar: 11⁰ C to 22⁰ C
- Places to visit in Khajjiar: Khajjiar Lake, Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, Dainkund, Khajjiar trek, Golden Devi Temple, Panch Pandav Tree, Panchpulla, Lord Shiva Statue
- Things to do in Khajjiar: Zorbing, trekking, hiking, camping, paragliding, horse riding
- How to reach Khakjjiar: The nearest major railhead is Pathankot railway station (118 km). Gaggal Airport, Kangra is the nearest airport (123 km).
8. Mcleod Ganj
Often glorified as ‘Little Lhasa’, Mcleodganj is home to Dalai Lama and a spiritual getaway for Buddhists. This quaint little hill town is renowned for its scenic vistas and pleasant weather, which makes it a perfect retreat for a family tour in summer 2024 in Himachal Pradesh. It is also a hub for adventure enthusiasts and a base camp for the Triund Trek. Nestled in the lap of the Dhauladhar range, Mcleodganj is a perfect combination of spirituality, serenity, and breathtaking beauty.
- Average Temperature of Mcleod Ganj: 15⁰ C to 24⁰ C
- Places to visit in Mcleod Ganj: Dal Lake, Bhagsunag Temple, Bhagsu Falls, Namgyal Monastery, Triund, Tibetan Market, Tsuglagkhang Complex, Dharamkot, Dharamshala, Tibetan Museum, Norbulingka Institute
- Things to do in Mcleod Ganj: Trekking, camping, hiking, paragliding, shopping
- How to reach Mcleod Ganj: The nearest major railhead is Pathankot railway station (90 km). Gaggal Airport, Kangra is the nearest airport (30 km).
9. Solan
Named after the Hindu goddess Shoolini Devi, Solan is the erstwhile capital of the princely state, Baghat. This idyllic hill town is renowned as the ‘City of Red Gold’ due to the bulk production of tomatoes.
It is also home to one of the oldest breweries in the country. Solan is a perfect getaway from the scorching heat and amazing places to visit in Himachal in May 2024. This mushroom capital of the country is set at an altitude of 1,550 m above sea level with the backdrop of awe-inspiring views.
- Average Temperature of Solan: 15⁰ C to 25⁰ C
- Places to visit in Solan: Kasauli, Shimla, Nalagarh Palace, Shoolini Mata Temple, Majathal Sanctuary, Solan Brewery, Barog, Jawahar Park
- Things to do in Solan: Trekking, camping, hiking, paragliding, shopping
- How to reach Solan: The nearest railhead is Kalka railway station (40 km) and the major nearest railhead is Chandigarh railway station (60 km). Chandigarh Airport is the nearest airport (39 km).
10. Chamba
Situated on the bank of the Ravi River, Chamba is a beguiling old town dotted with ancient temples and monasteries. Boasting picturesque views, breathtaking landscapes, and lush greenery, Chamba is a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh.
With the backdrop of Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges, this Himalayan town is a base camp for several treks. It is a perfect retreat for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Chamba is popular for its traditional handicrafts and miniature paintings.
- Average Temperature of Chamba: 19⁰ C to 27⁰ C read more for best time to visit
- Places to visit in Chamba: Bhuri Singh Museum, Sui Mata Temple, Champavati Temple, Chamera Lake, Manimahesh Lake, Himachal Emporium, Chaugan, Akhand Chandi Palace
- Things to do in Chamba: Boat ride in Chamera Lake, speed boating, trekking, camping, heritage walk, riverside stay
- How to reach Chamba: The nearest major railhead is Pathankot railway station (103 km). Pathankot Airport is the nearest airport (120 km) and the other nearest airport is Gaggal Airport (125 km).
11. Kasauli
Nestled in the lap of the Dhauladhar ranges of the Himalayas, Kasauli is renowned for its picturesque trails, lush landscape, snow-clad mountains, and architectural marvels. The enchanting Himalayan vistas make this beautiful hill town among the most popular family holiday destinations in Himachal.
Further reading: Best Time to visit Kasauli
Once a favorite retreat of the British, Kasauli is popular for its pristine beauty and peaceful ambiance. The unparalleled charm of the historical monuments and lush landscapes makes it a paradise for nature lovers and history buffs.
- Average Temperature of Kasauli: 15⁰ C to 28⁰ C
- Places to visit in Kasauli: Monkey Point, Mall Road, Sunset Point, Timber Trail, Baptist Church, Christ Anglican Church, Kasauli Brewery, Gurkha Fort
- Things to do in Kasauli: Hiking, trekking, bird watching, toy train ride
- How to reach Kasauli: The nearest railhead is Kalka railway station (22 km).
Jubbarhatti Airport is the nearest airport (50 km).
12. Spiti Valley
The Spiti Valley is situated in Himachal Pradesh’s district Lahaul and Spiti and is renowned for its cold desert terrain. Bordered by Ladakh in the north, Tibet in the east, Kinnaur in the southeast, and Kullu valley in the north, Spiti is a heavenly gateway for peace seekers. Fluttering prayer flags adds charm to the immense beauty of the valley. If you are a snow lover, the best time to visit the Lahaul and Spiti districts is the winter season. During winter, this valley becomes even more mesmerizing as it is covered in a thick layer of snow.
Home to some of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in India, glacier lakes, and high-altitude peaks, Spiti is among the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh in summer with family. The jaw-dropping landscape and barren mountains are a sight to behold.
- Average Temperature Spiti: 8⁰ C to 15⁰ C
- Places to visit in Spiti: Key Monastery, Dhankar Monastery, Kibber, Chandratal Lake, Kunzum Pass, Suraj Tal
- Things to do in Spiti: Hiking, trekking, camping, mountaineering
- How to reach Spiti: The nearest railhead is Chandigarh railway station (475 km). Bhuntar Airport is the nearest airport from Kaza (233 km).
[ Opt for our Spiti Valley tour packages here. ]
13. Solang Valley
Tucked away in the lap of the Pir Panjal range, Solang Valley is perched at an altitude of 2,560 m above sea level. Dotted with pristine lakes, snow-clad peaks, and mighty glaciers, Solang Valley is among the popular places to visit in Himachal Pradesh.
It is a paradise for adventure lovers and a perfect refuge for families from the scorching heat of the plains in summer. The lush meadows with the backdrop of the massive Himalayas and serene ambiance offer a perfect vacation time to the tourists.
- Average Temperature of Solang Valley: 10⁰ C to 25⁰ C
- Places to visit in Solang Valley: Anjani Mahadev Temple, Nehru Kund, Gulaba Viewpoint
- Things to do in Solang Valley: Hiking, trekking, camping, paragliding, zorbing, cable car ride, horse riding, quad biking
- How to reach Solang Valley: The nearest railhead is Chandigarh railway station (301 km). Bhuntar Airport is the nearest airport (62 km).
14. Kufri
Derived from the word ‘kufr’ meaning ‘lake’ in the local language, Kufri is a small hill town situated amidst the lofty peaks and lush forest. Boasts about the dense forest of pine and deodar trees, rich flora and fauna, and panoramic views, Kufri is an amazing place in Himachal Pradesh to visit with family in summer. With the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas, Kufri offers unique adventure activities.
[ Book your trip to Kufri with Indian Holiday. ]
- Average Temperature of Kufri: 8⁰ C to 21⁰ C
- Places to visit in Kufri: Fun World, Mahasu Peak, Naldehra, Mashobra, Chail
- Things to do in Kufri: Hiking, camping, horse riding
- How to reach Kufri: The nearest railhead is Shimla railway station (16 km). Jubbarhatti Airport is the nearest airport (36 km).
15. Mandi
Situated on the bank of the Beas River, Mandi is situated at the junction of Kullu and Dharamshala. Home to 80 temples, Mandi is also known as ‘Varanasi of the hills’. It is also the nearest town for various treks including Prashar Lake, Rewalsar Lake, and Thamsar Pass.
Mandi attracts adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. It is among the best places to visit in summer with family in Himachal Pradesh due to its scenic vistas and tranquil environment.
- Average Temperature of Mandi: 20⁰ C to 35⁰ C
- Places to visit in Mandi: Prashar Lake, Pandoh Dam, Bhuthnatha Temple, Rewalsar Lake, Sundernagar, Tattapani
- Things to do in Mandi: Trekking, camping, nature walks
- How to reach Mandi: The nearest railhead is Chandigarh railway station (182 km). Bhuntar Airport is the nearest airport (57 km).
16. Mashobra
Tucked away from the hustle-bustle, Mashobra is nestled at an altitude of 2,146 m above sea level. This quaint hill town is a perfect refuge from the 2scorching heat, which makes it an amazing place to visit in Himachal Pradesh with family during the summer vacations of 2024. It is a perfect place for those who wish to spend laid-back vacations amidst lush nature. This idyllic destination is blessed with picturesque splendors and famous for its pleasant weather.
- Average Temperature of Mashobra: 10⁰ C to 23⁰ C
- Places to visit in Mashobra: Tattapani River, Reserve Forest Sanctuary, Mahasu Devta Temple, Chadwick Falls
- Things to do in Mashobra: Trekking, camping, nature walks
- How to reach Mashobra: Jubbarhatti Airport is the nearest airport from Mashobra (32 km). From there you can take a taxi or cab to reach Mashobra. The nearest railhead is Shimla railway station (12 km). However, the major nearest railhead is Chandigarh railway station (120 km).
17. Palampur
Set amidst the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas, Palampur is renowned for its lush tea gardens. The peaceful and serene environment of this quaint hill town makes it one of the best hill stations to visit in Himachal Pradesh in May and June with family. Boasts about Victorian-style castles and mansions, Palampur is a perfect amalgamation of picturesque landscapes and glorious past. Bir Billing is a popular tourist destination, which is situated 20 km from Palampur and is a world-popular paragliding site. It is an amazing place to enjoy paragliding and have a lifetime experience.
- Average Temperature of Palampur: 15⁰ C to 26⁰ C
- Places to visit in Palampur: Tashi Jong Monastery, Tea Gardens, Neugal Cafe, Saurabh Van Vihar, Bir Billing, Norbulingka Monastery
- Things to do in Palampur: Trekking, camping, paragliding
- How to reach Palampur: Gaggal Airport is the nearest airport from Palampur (38 km). However, the major airport is Pathankot Airport (112 km). The nearest railhead is Pathankot railway station (115 km).
18. Kalpa
Nestled amidst the snow-clad peaks of Kinnaur-Kailash, Kalpa is the main village of Kinnaur Valley. Home to numerous ancient temples and monasteries, Kalpa is blessed with paradisiacal beauty.
Also Read : Best time to visit Kalpa
This breathtakingly beautiful village is a heaven for nature lovers. The pleasant weather of the region makes it among the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh with family in the summer 2024. The gushing river and numerous apple orchards enhance the beauty of this rustic hamlet.
- Average Temperature of Kalpa: 2⁰ C to 14⁰ C
- Places to visit in Kalpa: Kinnaur Kailash, Suicide Point, Roghi Village, Narayan Nagini Temple, Sapni Fort, Kothi
- Things to do in Kalpa: Trekking, camping
- How to reach Kalpa: Jubbarhatti Airport is the nearest airport from Kalpa (244 km). However, another major airport is Bhuntar Airport (245 km). The nearest railhead is Shimla railway station (225 km). For more complete information visit here.
19. Kangra
Renowned for the picturesque backdrop of the Dhauladhar range and lush tea estates, Kangra Valley boasts of ancient temples, historic ruins, towering forts, and shimmering lakes.
Home to a rock temple from the monolithic age, ancient artifacts, and architectural marvels, Kangra is a famous summer destination of Himachal Pradesh.
Further reading: Best Time to visit Kangra
Nature lovers can spend some time amidst the serene beauty that is peaceful and calm, away from the hustle-bustle.
- Average Temperature of Kangra: 18⁰ C to 32⁰ C
- Places to visit in Kangra: Kangra Fort, Baijnath Temple, Jawala Ji Temple, Chamunda Devi Temple
- Things to do in Kangra: Trekking, camping, nature walk, tea plantation tour
- How to reach Kangra: Gaggal Airport is the nearest airport from Kangra (11 km). However, another major airport is Pathankot Airport (91 km). The nearest railhead is Pathankot railway station (94 km).
20. Shoghi
Blessed with the abundant natural scenic beauty along with the wide range of flora and fauna, Shoghi is a quaint hill town that is a popular spot for adventure activities too. This place is home to numerous temples due to which it holds a religious significance.
The region experiences amazing weather in summer which makes it a perfect getaway from the scorching heat. Shoghi is an ethereal destination and has an abundant plantation of oak and rhododendron that adds charm to its rustic beauty.
- Average Temperature of Shoghi: 13⁰ C to 25⁰ C
- Places to visit in Shoghi: Kandhaghat, Tara Devi Temple, Hanuman Temple, Pabbar Valley, Kali Temple
- Things to do in Shoghi: Hiking, trekking, camping, nature walk, bird watching
- How to reach Shoghi: Jubbarhatti Airport is the nearest airport from Shoghi (33 km). The nearest railhead is Shimla railway station (13 km).
So, which of these hill stations of Himachal Pradesh is on your list to travel to in summer 2024? Pamper your loved ones with a memorable trip during these summers and spend quality time with them. Do not forget to mention your favorite place and also share your experience with us!
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