Himachal Pradesh is one of the eternal favorites for a trip and all the right reasons. One needs a break from the constant buzz of the city at times. Delhi is blessed with great roads and superb destinations just a few hours away. With pleasant winding routes and attractions scattered across the state, it is best to hire a car and have an enjoyable, uncompromised road trip. Here are some of the top Himachal destinations that will certainly soothe the weary urban soul.
Mashobra
Mashobra is a destination that tends to slip under the radar at times. Pretty close to Shimla, this quaint little town is 360 km from the capital and is famous for its colonial architecture; the most prominent is the presidential retreat. There are many nice picnic spots around the town, and many come here for nature walks and treks.
Shimla
It was the summer capital during the British Raj, and Shimla today still features the majestic remnants of its old administrative significance. One can come here for the magnificent views that greet people in the forested hills surrounding the city. Many come here to escape the heat of the plains, and Shimla’s evening market scenes are abuzz with activity. The capital of Himachal is home to many old churches and buildings, some currently used as administrative complexes or educational institutions. Tudor and Victorian elements inspire colonial architecture – tall European spires and looming structures dot the alpine landscape.
Sangla
Those looking for some seclusion and undisturbed nature can drive off to the breathtaking Sangla Valley. Near Tibet’s border, Sangla is surrounded by thick evergreen forests and snow-capped peaks. Apple orchards provide an ideal Himachali backdrop, and many trekking trails leave the main town. Sangla also showcases the distinctive culture of Kinnaur. The Sangla Buddhist temple and the Badrinathji Temple are spiritual sites that attract pilgrims from around the region.
Kasol
Kasol has fascinated travelers for generations. Kasol is considered one of the most picturesque places in the Indian Himalayas, a town that unleashes the inner-romantic in even the hardest of travelers. Adventurers can follow the Parvati River and enjoy some nature trails. A trip to Malana is always recommended.
Driving up the Himalayan hills from Delhi provides a captivating change of scenery as the flat horizon-less plains slowly give way to more verdant undulations. As one nears the destination, the route is full of winding mountain roads accompanied by gushing rivers below. Chandigarh is a popular stop before entering Himachal Pradesh for those who want to take a break in the journey, a city with its share of attractions.
It is effortless to hire cars in Delhi with app-based platforms like Zoomcar. Booking is made in a matter of minutes, and there is a wide choice of vehicles – from smart hatchbacks to rugged SUVs for that group trip to the mountains. 24/7 on-road support adds a security layer to this experience. When the road beckons, the best way to enjoy the journey is in complete privacy on one’s terms. This is why many informed travelers choose to sit behind the wheel and enjoy the hills of Himachal.