Himachal Pradesh
Explore the beauty, culture, and attractions of Himachal Pradesh.
Top Attractions
3 Days in Palampur for a Slow-Paced Getaway
Palampur is the kind of place where time slows down, and that's exactly why I love it. Nestled in the Kangra Valley with the Dhauladhar range as its backdrop, this quiet town is perfect for those who want to unwind without the usual tourist rush. Think long walks through tea gardens, lazy afternoons by the Neugal Khad, and the simple joy of sipping freshly brewed Kangra tea. It's not about ticking off sights but soaking in the calm and the stunning views.
Trip Highlights
Best Time to Visit
Share Your Adventure
Spread the word about this amazing trip!
Day 1
Day 1 in Palampur
Kick off your Palampur trip with its most iconic spots—tea gardens, a peaceful monastery, and a stunning waterfall. Take it slow and soak in the laid-back vibe of this charming hill town.
Activities
Morning at Palampur Tea Gardens
Start your day with a stroll through the lush, rolling tea estates that Palampur is famous for. The Neugal Khad area has some of the prettiest plantations, where you can learn about tea processing and sip fresh brews right at the source. The misty views of the Dhauladhar range make it even more magical.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
- Carry a light jacket—mornings can be chilly even in summer.
Visit Tashi Jong Monastery
A short drive from the town center, this serene monastery is home to Tibetan monks and offers a glimpse into Buddhist culture. The vibrant prayer flags, intricate murals, and rhythmic chants create a calming atmosphere. Don’t miss the small handicraft shop selling handmade Tibetan souvenirs.
- Dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees.
- Check if photography is allowed inside the prayer hall.
Lunch and Souvenir Shopping at Bundla Street
Head back to town for a hearty Himachali meal at one of the local dhabas on Bundla Street. Try siddu (steamed bread with stuffing) or madra (yogurt-based curry). After eating, browse the street’s tiny shops for handmade woolens, Kangra tea, and wooden crafts—great for gifts.
- Ask for 'siddu with ghee'—it’s a local favorite.
- Bargain gently at shops; prices are often flexible.
Evening at Baijnath Temple & Waterfall
Drive 30 minutes to the ancient Baijnath Temple, a stunning example of Nagara architecture dedicated to Lord Shiva. After exploring, cool off at the nearby Binwa River waterfall—a lesser-known spot where you can dip your feet in the icy water or just enjoy the sounds of nature.
- Remove shoes before entering the temple complex.
- The waterfall path can be slippery—wear grippy shoes.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
No destinations found for this itinerary
Day 2
Day 2 in Palampur
A mix of nature, culture, and local flavors, today takes you to Palampur's serene spots and hidden gems, with plenty of time to soak in the relaxed vibe.
Activities
Morning at Neugal Khad
Start your day with the calming sounds of the Neugal Khad, a small river with crystal-clear waters. The grassy banks are perfect for a lazy morning picnic or just sitting with a book. The view of the Dhauladhar range from here is stunning, especially in the soft morning light.
- Carry a light jacket—mornings can be chilly even in summer
- Visit the small local stalls nearby for fresh lemon-ginger tea
Saurabh Van Vihar Walk
A peaceful forest park with well-maintained walking trails, Saurabh Van Vihar is a great spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the pine-scented air. The park has viewpoints overlooking the valley and plenty of shaded benches to relax. Keep an eye out for colorful Himalayan birds.
- Wear comfortable shoes—the trails are easy but uneven in places
- Visit the small nursery inside the park for local plant varieties
Lunch & Pottery Workshop at Andretta
Head to the artsy village of Andretta, just 30 minutes from Palampur. Have a hearty lunch at a local café (try the Himachali dham platter), then join a short pottery workshop at the Andretta Pottery Studio. The village has a quiet, creative energy that’s perfect for a slow afternoon.
- Book the pottery workshop in advance—they’re small and fill up quickly
- If short on time, skip the workshop and just explore the village’s art galleries
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Day 3 in Palampur
A relaxed day exploring hidden gems and local flavors in Palampur, with a mix of nature and culture.
Activities
Morning at Birni Devi Temple
Start your day with a peaceful hike to Birni Devi Temple, a lesser-known spot with stunning views of the Dhauladhar range. The trail is gentle and takes about 30 minutes, passing through pine forests. The temple itself is small but serene, and the panoramic views make it worth the climb.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the hike
- Carry water and a light jacket—it can get chilly in the mornings
Breakfast at Norwood Green
Head to Norwood Green, a cozy café known for its organic produce and homemade bread. Their Himachali-style breakfast platter with siddu (local steamed bread) and walnut chutney is a must-try. The café has a lovely garden setting, perfect for a lazy morning.
- Try their ginger honey tea—it’s a local favorite
- Ask for a table in the garden if the weather’s nice
Afternoon at Chamunda Devi Temple
Take a short drive to Chamunda Devi Temple, a beautiful hilltop shrine dedicated to Goddess Kali. The temple is less crowded than others in the area and offers a quiet, spiritual vibe. The drive itself is scenic, with views of the Kangra Valley.
- Dress modestly as it’s a religious site
- Combine this with a quick stop at the nearby Chamunda Falls if you have time