Himachal High

TRADITIONALLY A SUMMER destination, over the years Himachal Pradesh has transformed itself into a ‘destination for all seasons and reasons’. While Shimla, Manali, Kullu, and Dalhousie have always been a major pull for honeymooners, the state’s other gems are just as alluring. For quieter souls, the green embrace of Mandi offers ideal respite. The vast green pastures of this riverside town come backdropped with snow-clad mountains and untrodden terrains. Camp by Prashar lake, which comes paired with a three-storied pagoda-like temple or at Barot Valley, where the snow-fed Uhl river is replete with exotic fish. When in Kinnaur, another hill town, savour a picnic basket amid apricot, cherry, and apple orchards. Or get lost in the serenity of Chamba, situated at the crossroads of Dhauladhar and Zanskar ranges. Adventure seekers can enjoy the rush of driving on some of the world’s most treacherous roads at Lahaul Valley, while religious travellers can seek blessings on the banks of the Yamuna river at Paonta Sahib. himachaltourism.gov.in