How many of you love mountains? Meeeeeee!! Regardless of whether it is in winters or summers, they are just amazing in all seasons.

Since you already guessed we would be talking about a place which is ‘everything’ mountains, let’s cut the suspense. I am talking about Himachal! A northern state in India with some of the most iconic mountain towns and is even the home to the great Dalai Lama, so if you ever visit there (which you totally should) then make sure to visit the Dalai Lama temple, you might also be lucky enough to meet the man himself.

Coming back to the post, this place is famous for its treks, skiing and its vibrant festivals and fairs. Every city and town you come across in this state has something to say and a wonders in their own way. Manali is one of the most popular cities, which pulls a lot of crowd from all over the world and has become a resort town over the years and has always been a hippie favourite for years, which includes a lot of foreigners too. Surrounded by the beautiful Himalayas, the best part of this place is that, it suits and fits every kind of travel and have stuff for everyone to do. Also, when you visit the area do not forget to check out the local markets, especially the fruit market, you will not regret it (just imagine your apple dreams coming true).

Just really close to Manali, is the Rothang Pass, a marvel, which is about 50 km from Manali, but takes a few hours (because of the roads that lead there) is something you shouldn’t miss when you are ever visiting, like you just shouldn’t! The scenic view, the valleys, the winding roads and the lush green mountains take you to another world, that would not want to come back from, trust me! You can get there on a bike, car or you could also take a yak ride (yes!!, don’t want to miss that now, would you?).  The ride can be a little dangerous, so you gotta stay a little focused on the way. The reason why it got this name, is a little depressing, so let’s not get into that and only soak in the beauty that it is. The weather can be challenging, but the reward is totally worth it. The view (which I am sure) is one of the best in the world! While you are there, don’t forget to have some Maggie (best place to gave Maggie I guarantee) and also do check out the adventure sports like snow scooter riding, paragliding, skiing and such.

Another gem of a place close to Manali, is Parvati Valley, known as the Amsterdam of India which is about 70+ km, but again is going to take you a while, 1: the road, 2: stop take pics, Repeat!. Though it totally deserves a trip of its own, we had to do with a short one, due to time constraints of course. A perfect place to get lost in the mysteries of the folklore, beautiful landscapes and its tranquility. The trek down to Parvati Valley Resort is one of its kind and the view even more scintillating. Just imagine standing in the balcony with a hot tea or hot chocolate in middle of the mountains with the river flowing through it. Ahh! someone take me back there!

Kasol, runs alongside the Parvati river and does not disappoint anyone who visit it. A place with lot of villages, warm people and a bridge connecting the old and new Kasol will always welcome you with open arms. The place is famous for its Israeli food, camping and trekking of course (Chalal being the definite to do one). Tosh a little hill top village at the end of Parvati valley is another must visit. It has a foot over bridge which connects the road to the village and oh the good part, no vehicles can enter, you would have get there by feet.  It has some of the best views which you wouldn’t find anywhere and being very close to Kasol has helped it gain quite a bit of popularity over the last few years and has some really cozy cute places to stay. Over here you can explore the surroundings, enjoy the peace, do some meditation and trek in-and-around, so that you can continue getting lost in the views.

I can go on, but the bottom line is, the beauty of Himachal will leave you awe-stuck and spellbound even years after your visit, I guarantee that!

Want to book your tickets and run to it right now? Please go ahead, life is too short to miss out this amazing destination.

P.S. If you are into bikes you can go ahead and do a bike trip (it is one of the best ways to get around the entire state), but everything else works too, a roadtrip, solo trip or a group trip. And for all this you would need a good 2 weeks at least. There is still so much that I couldn’t cover and would definitely go back any day to do that. So have any of you been there? What is your favourite mountain getaway? Would love to hear your stories of your visit!