Visiting hill stations in winter is an indescribable feeling but in summer it becomes necessary to escape the intense heat of the plains. Chandigarh gets extremely hot during summer and everyone feels like spending even a few days away from the scorching heat and into the lapse of nature. The confusion lies in choosing where to go. Here are some hill stations near Chandigarh that will be perfect for your little vacation. 

Hill Stations Near Chandigarh Worth Visiting

Most people might think Shimla is the only hill station near Chandigarh. However, there are more hill stations than you think. 

People like to spend their weekends in a peaceful place away from the city lights and in a place that will bring relief from the intense heat of the summer. If you are planning to escape Chandigarh for a day or two then hill stations near Chandigarh are the perfect destinations for you!

1. Shimla

Everyone knows about Shimla, the Queen of the Hill Stations in India. There is absolutely no one who doesn’t like Shimla or has yet to visit even once. Many people have Shimla on their bucket lists.

It is covered with dense forests and amazing views. It has the power to mesmerize everyone who visits. You cannot let your phones stay in your pocket for long, especially during sunsets.

When the sky is covered with clouds and the sun sets, it is one of the most majestic views you can capture. Moreover, British-era architecture like the Gaiety Theatre, the Advanced Study, and other such buildings are worth a visit. 

Shimla is one of the best escapes during the summer season. It gives relief from the intense heat and is only a maximum 4-hour drive from Chandigarh. You can easily visit Shimla in the morning and leave as the night falls. Or you can simply stay for a day or two and visit these places in Shimla:

The Church

A must-visit at the center of the mall. It reflects the beautiful architecture of the British. 

Jakhu Temple

Visiting Shimla is incomplete without the blessings of Lord Hanuman. The Jakhu Temple is home to lord Hanuman’s statue, one of the world’s tallest statues. 

Himalayan Bird Park

 The park is home to various species of birds. The vibrant colors of the birds are a sight to behold. 

The Glen

If you want an off-trail experience, visit the Glen and enjoy a nature retreat amidst the greenery. 

Mashobra

You can also visit Mashobra to enjoy the waterfall along with the breathtaking view from the Mashobra Hills. 

These are just a few names; Shimla is filled with beautiful places that you should visit if you plan a trip to Shimla during summer. 

2. Kasauli 

Kasauli is just a 2–3-hour drive from Chandigarh and a beautiful one-day trip. It is famously known for its sunset point. You can see some of the breathtaking sunsets from the point. 

The hill station is covered with dense timber wood and pine trees and is a must-visit if you want to plan a small getaway with your family and friends. You can explore the vintage shops or visit these places:

Gilbert Trail

A nature walk for nature lovers is waiting at the Gilbert trail. Walk on the path and explore the beauty of Kasauli. 

Baba Balak Nath Temple

Visit the historic Baba Balak Nath Temple surrounded by nature from all sides. 

Kasauli will definitely soothe your soul and give you peace and relief from the city’s noise and heat. 

3. Chail

Chail is another beautiful escape if you want to surround yourself with peace and nature. It has breathtaking views and is surrounded by dense forests. Chail is one of the hidden gems of Himachal that is not visited quite often.

If you are someone who doesn’t like crowded hill stations like Shimla, you can plan your small trip to Chail. It is 106 km away from Chandigarh, taking approximately 3 hours to reach (by car). It offers some beautiful places that are worth visiting:

The Chail Palace

It is the main attraction of Chail and a wonderful piece of architecture. 

Kali ka Tibba Temple

 It is a beautiful temple built at a great height. It offers a mesmerizing view of the Shivalik and the Choor Chandni peaks. 

Chail Cricket Ground

You can also visit the Chail Cricket Ground. It is known as the highest cricket ground in the world. 

Visit Chail and spend a wonderful time amidst nature while also exploring the various landmarks that make Chail worth visiting and unique. 

4. Morni Hills

Morni Hills is another hill station near Chandigarh. It is located on the outskirts of Panchkula, Haryana. Many of you might not know this but Morni Hills is the only hill station in Haryana. People like to visit this place for a picnic, surrounded by hills and fresh air.

It is one of the best spots to escape the intense heat of Chandigarh for a day. You can engage in various activities like hill climbing, birdwatching, watching sunset, and many more.

Moreover, Morni Hills has some beautiful places to visit like Thakur Dwar Temple, Morni Fort, and many more. It is only a 45 km drive from Chandigarh, and you can easily visit the place any time of the day. 

You should definitely stop for the sunset and bless your eyes with the beautiful view of the setting sun. Make sure to bring your summer essentials as it might feel hot in the afternoon. However, if you don’t want to go outside Chandigarh then you can escape the summer heat in these Amusement Parks in Chandigarh.

5. Barog

Barog is a hill station in Solan offering a comforting summer escape. It is just a 60 km ride from Chandigarh which takes approximately 1 hour to reach the destination. The hill station is filled with natural beauty and beautiful sunsets. 

 It offers various landmarks worth visiting if you plan your little escape to this tranquil hill station. Some of these unique and attractive places are:

Choor Chandni Peak 

Choor Chandni Peak is a must-visit in Barog especially at night when the moonlight shines on the peak appearing like bangles. Moreover, if you want to trek it is a great option too.

Suketi Fossil Park

You can also visit the Suketi Fossil Park for a historic adventure. It is Asia’s first park built on the place where original fossils were found. 

Dolanji Bon Monastery

If you want to experience peace and tranquility, visit the Dolanji Bon Monastery. Soothe your body and soul with its ambiance. 

Barog Camping Grounds

Camp in the Barog Camping Grounds and enjoy the mesmerizing view of the Solang Valley and the Choor Chandni Peak. 

Jatoli Shiva Temple

Visit Jatoli Shiva Temple, it is one of the oldest Shiv temples in India. 

Barog is filled with exquisite beauty and it’s near Chandigarh, you should definitely not miss the opportunity to visit this beautiful hill station.

Final Note

All these hill stations near Chandigarh are worth visiting if you don’t want to spend too much money or time on a long vacation. You can easily visit any one of them and spend a day or two. Come back more refreshed and content. Plan your mini vacation to either of these hill stations and escape the summer heat of Chandigarh. 

Whenever we hear the word Punjab, the rich fields of mustard and the energetic aura of the Punjabis come to our minds. The way Punjabis stay connected to their roots and fill the place with their exuberant personality is a wonder to behold. To know more about their culture, you should know these 10 famous places in Punjab which you can visit with family and friends.

The 10 Famous Places to Visit in Punjab

Punjab is one of the oldest and the richest cultures in the world. The state’s architecture hides so many stories behind its walls. The soil holds many vibrant traditions, values, and history in every particle. You can sit with a random old person, and he will tell you tons of stories about Punjab.

All these famous places in Punjab will teach you about the history, culture, and values of the state called the ‘Land of the Five Rivers’. Every place has a story, you just have to be a good listener and remember it. Punjab will for sure teach you about love and hatred, war and peace.

Golden Temple

Golden Temple is the heart of Punjab, it is the most significant proof of the richness of Punjab. You can feel the soothing aura of the place just by listening to the name. Visiting Golden Temple is for sure once in a lifetime dream of every person that they have to fulfill. It is also known as Harmandir Sahib.

It is located in Amritsar, which is known for its cultural and religious value in Punjab. This Sikh pilgrimage is a tourist attraction for millions of tourists worldwide. Just like a flock of birds, devotees visit this shining golden religious site to seek blessings. 

This golden-domed temple; a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic architecture is the central hub for Sikh religious activities. It is a Sikh belief that Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, had a vision regarding the presence of the divine at the site, which was the reason why the Golden Temple holds so much spiritual significance. It is one of the extravagant famous places in Punjab.

Jallianwala Bagh

I know many of you might instantly remember the massacre of 1919 when thousands of innocent people were killed by the British. It is proof of the atrocities of the British and now has become an established memorial site for the Indians who were shot. 

This historical garden is home to a museum, gallery, and several structures that are proof of one of the most deadly massacres in human history. The main attraction is the Martyr’s Well, many people jumped in the well to escape the bullets. Along with this, the walls of the Bagh are covered with the ruins of bullet holes everywhere. These preserved structures never fail to remind the Indians of their darkest days during the fight for independence.

The Partition Museum 

 The Partition Museum is the centerpiece of the largest migration in human history. It defines the struggles during the independence when nearly 20 million people were displaced from both India and Pakistan. It is located in the town hall of Amritsar and acts as the core memory of all those who were affected by the partition of India.

So many untold stories are given a voice through this museum. Various documents, stories, and belongings of the displaced people are kept in the museum to pay tribute to the lost lives and the surviving families of those displaced, who can never forget the horrors of the migration. 

This museum holds various experiences of the surviving families in the form of oral stories, objects like jewellery, clothes, cooking utensils, and everything else that the families possessed. It is a constant reminder of the horrific most horrific event of British India.

It not only safeguards the memory of millions who lost their lives but also of those who showed resilience to the challenging circumstances that the partition forced on them. 

Wagah Border

Wagah Border is the international border and an army outpost that separates India and Pakistan. A very famous place to visit for its historical significance and the extraordinary military ceremony that takes place everyday. 

The migrants used the Wagah Border during the independence of India in 1947. It lies on the famous Grand Trunk Road that connects Amritsar and Lahore. Apart from its historical significance, it is well known for the Wagah Border Ceremony or the Beating Retreat Border Ceremony.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum 

Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum is a popular museum located in the middle of Ram Bagh Garden in Amritsar. It is another main attraction of Punjab which was originally the summer palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the first king of the Sikh Empire. 

The museum is a treasure of history, art, and the architecture of the Sikhs in the past. A mind map to the extravagant lifestyle of the Maharaja. It takes you on a historical ride with the museum displays like objects used by the Maharaja and his family, rare paintings, and centuries-old coins and manuscripts.

Even though every painting in the museum is a sight to behold, one particular painting of Lahore is the most famous of all. Every object displayed has a story of its own. You can learn about the rich culture of Sikhism through this Museum’s collections.

Rangla Punjab Haveli

Rangla Punjab Haveli is the illustrator of the rich culture of Punjab. In the state Rangla Punjab means the colourful and lively roots of Punjab. This is not just a famous tourist attraction but a huge canvas of the colourful heritage and culture of rural Punjab, painted to preserve the roots of the state. 

It is also known as the ‘Melting Pot of Punjab’s Culture’ which showcases what Punjab exactly is from the inside. You will get to read the whole book of Punjab’s culture while visiting this place. Some important traditions include:

1. Gidha Bhangra: The traditional folk dance of Punjab is filled with energy. The women perform Gidda while the men perform Bhangra.
2. Khoo diya Tinda: It was used in earlier houses as a decor, mostly in pind areas.
3. Haar-Shingar di Hatti: A collage of colorful artistic and traditional artifacts. Ranging from juttis to phulkaris.
4. Punjab Da Julaha: Revisit the older times with weaving of khadi cloth as a live demonstration.
5. Bhand: Fall off your seats with laughter with these traditional funny performances by artists. These live joyful performances have been entertaining Punjabis for generations. The acting, and dialogue delivery, will make you laugh without even trying. 

Witness the liveliness of Punjabi culture in Rangla Punjab Haveli, one of the culturally rich and famous places in Punjab. 

Virasat-e-Khalsa

Virasat-e-Khalsa is a museum in Anandpur Sahib which was earlier known as Khalsa Heritage Memorial Complex. It holds an important significance for the Sikh community. The museum is home to some insightful events that occurred in Punjab 500 years ago. These events gave birth to Sikhism and to the Khalsa Panth. 

The museum is a philosophical retreat that envisions the message of peace and brotherhood by the great gurus of Sikhism. It includes various scriptures written by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the last Sikh Guru and the founder of Sikhism.

Harike Wetland

Harike Wetland is also known as Hari-ke-Pattan. It is the largest wetland in North India situated near the border of Tarn Taran Sahib. This man-made wetland has a rich biodiversity and is home to various species of birds, reptiles, and amphibians. 

This beautiful wetland is a definition of peace and an abundance of vibrant floating vegetation which includes flowers like Water hyacinth, The Lotus, and many more which makes the site look like a dreamland. Also, recently the Indus Dolphin, which was declared to be extinct, was spotted in the Harike Wetland which is considered a significant discovery. 

Shri Devi Talab Mandir

Shri Devi Talab Mandir is a Hindu temple of Goddess Durga. Thousands of devotees visit this temple to seek the blessings of the goddess. The temple is one of the 51 Shakti Pithas in India. It is the spot where Maa Sati’s right breast had fallen.

Inside this temple there is a structure like the Amarnath Temple, a temple of Lord Shiva. The temple also has a 200-year-old pond at the center of the temple premises. People consider it as   its most astounding feature. Immerse yourself in the divinity of Maa Durga and the glistening water of the ancient pond. 

The Qila Mubarak

The Qila Mubarak is one of the most famous historical monuments in Punjab. It also recognizes as a monument of national importance by the Archaeological Survey of India. Dated back to around 1200 AD, it is the oldest surviving fort in India. 

All bricks used for the fort are as old as the Kushana period. It is the only witness that confirms the existence of Razia Sultana– the first and the only woman emperor of Delhi. 

Furthermore, it is also known as the Bathinda Fort, it is a must-visit to know about the lost glories and the existence of emperors and kings. The walls and the ceilings truly define surviving various wars and the changing times. 

If these three historical monuments are not enough to quench your thirst of knowing Punjab’s history then visit these 10 Historic Palaces and Forts in Punjab You Must Visit.

Final Note

Punjab might become one of your favourite destinations if you want a lively escape. The rich history and culture of Punjab is one to behold. The grounded people and their energetic aura can lift up anyone’s dull face. The famous places in Punjab that I have mentioned are the propagators of Punjab’s culture and heritage. These are constant reminders of its rich history of struggles and glories.

You might be asking yourself how you can reach the mountainous, filled with breathtaking views, the beautiful place called Manali from your well-planned city, filled with high-end nightclubs and amazing nightlife city Chandigarh. Tag along with me and discover how to reach Manali from Chandigarh.

Manali is no less than Kashmir when it comes to heaven on earth. It is filled with ecstatic views and a peaceful aura, away from the bustling crowds and city life. It is an absolute wonder for those who have not experienced village life or seen snow-capped mountains and beautiful green meadows. You can experience everything when you visit Manali. 

How to reach Manali from Chandigarh

Although you can reach Manali via many means from Chandigarh, many are still clueless about how to reach Manali from Chandigarh. For my unaware friends, keep the following routes and transport in mind to reach the popular tourist destination, Manali.

Even though thousands of tourists travel to Manali, they have to travel by bus or personal transport as the famous hill station does not have a railway station or an airport of its own. Many of us consider train the best medium of transportation for long routes, but for Manali, you have no choice other than to travel by car or bus. 

Traveling By Bus

Traveling by bus is the most affordable ride for Manali. The minimum hours it takes to reach Manali from Chandigarh is about 7 hours. If you want to reach Manali faster, then you can hail a cab to Mandi and then book a bus seat to Manali. This will take you about 6 hours to reach your destination.

If you decide to take the faster route, you will get to experience not a single but two destinations. Taking a little detour and extending your vacation is worth it when the moments are memorable. I’m sure many of you might not know this, but Mandi is also known as ‘’Chotti Kashi’’ due to its similarity with Varanasi.

Mandi has various ghats on the bank of the Beas River and various temples of Lord Shiva near them, which gives off the impression of Varanasi. Anyone who visits Mandi wonders along the lines of the cultural, traditional, and architectural heritage of this cultural capital of Himachal Pradesh. 

Anyways! If you are okay with traveling by bus, without feeling cramped or nauseous, then it’s the perfect ride for you. Traveling by bus has its perks, you get to observe so many different lives. A stranger sitting next to you might also be going to Manali. Who knows you might develop a bond and travel together!

 I feel, buses are the best transport for solo traveling, but the price differs according to the type of bus you have booked. If you don’t want to get off at two places and directly want your feet to touch the greenery of Manali then there are 31 direct buses from Chandigarh to Manali. Some of these buses are:

1. Leo Travel Heights- They provide you with a blanket, charging point, and water bottle.
2. Himachal Volvo Bus Service
3. HRTC
4. Indo Canadian Tpt Co
5. Himachal Tourist Volvo Bus
6. Himachal Holiday Tours

The trip will cost you around Rs 899 to Rs 900, depending on the bus service.

You need to keep in mind that traveling by bus means you cannot explore little pockets of places during the journey. The bus won’t stop wherever you want it to, so it might be a secondary option for travelers who are free birds and like to explore every part of the journey. 

Travel By Cab

If you have a good budget and can afford a more comfortable medium, then you can travel by cab too. Travel alone or with your gang, it will be a wonderful journey. Book your cab from Chandigarh Airport and experience the best road trip. Also, cabs are safer as the drivers know the routes.

 So, all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the scenery outside or sing along with your friends while crossing the mountains on your way. A one-way trip from Chandigarh to Manali costs around Rs 3600 to Rs 4500 (the minimal fare). It differs according to the season, day, and time you have planned your trip.

The type of car you book also decides the amount of the trip, depending on your requirements. Nonetheless, the journey will be unforgettable and a smooth one too.

Travel by Car

Now, my friends who like to travel in their vehicles, you need to keep a few things in mind for a smooth and hassle-free road trip.

• If you are from Chandigarh and want to travel through Rohtang Pass, you can’t travel without a permit.
• You need to have a special permit from the Manali SDM office, or the Manali Union.
• This is because non- Himachal vehicles are not allowed to cross the barrier for Rohtang Pass.

I’m sure you would definitely not want to miss the thrill of passing through the Atal Tunnel and therefore you should get the pass for enjoying the serenity and beauty of Rohtang Pass. If by any chance you feel like visiting Shimla, before going to Manali then these 10 Must-Visit Dhabas on the Chandigarh-Shimla Highway are the best ones for the ultimate taste.

Best Routes to Reach Manali from Chandigarh

Transportation depends on one’s preference but selecting the best route for a smooth journey needs to be shared for convenient traveling. I would suggest you not to visit Himachal, especially the hilly areas during monsoons. Monsoons bring with them lots of landslides and roadblocks along with the heavy downpour. Then even these routes won’t help you to reach Manali fast. Enjoy Himachal’s beauty in summers, when nature is in full bloom, and in winter when snow transcends the mountains.  Here are the best routes for you.

Route 1: Through NH3

This is the shortest and the fastest route to reach Manali faster from Chandigarh. It is the most preferred route to travel by tourists. However, anything that gives results faster always has some troubles too. During peak seasons, it is highly packed with traffic due to its popularity. 

Nonetheless, NH3 has standard highway tolls, and the road condition is much better than other routes since it has fewer landslides and road closures. 

You will pass the following places if you take this route:

• Nalagarh
• Bilaspur
• Mandi
• Kullu
• Naggar
• Manali

This route will take you about 8 hours to cover a distance of 299 km from Chandigarh to Manali. Apart from just reaching one destination, you can enjoy some detours too. On taking this route you can explore the following places too:

1. Gobind Sagar Lake
2. Prashar Lake, Mandi
3. Great Himalayan National Park, Tirthan Valley
4. Chandrakhani Pass, Kullu

Enjoy a good meal on your way in:

1. Bahadur Ka Dhaba, Bilaspur
2. Chawla’s, Mandi

Route 2: Through NH154 

A bit longer route than the previous one, with moderate traffic on the way. This is why it makes traveling a bit slow. So, before traveling check for the latest updates on road traffic, for an uninterrupted experience. 

The road map for traveling through this route is: 

• Dharampur
• Barmana
• Mandi
• Kullu
• Manali

This route will take you about 8 hours 58 min to cover a distance of 308 km from Chandigarh to Manali. Now onto some detours on the way to Manali:

1. Kasauli
2. Kalka- Shimla Railway
3. Pinjore Gardens

Enjoy the delicacies of these few eating spots on the way:

1. Heritage Haveli, Rupnagar
2. Shelly Restaurant, Kalka 
3. Kasauli Cafe, Kasauli

Other Means to Reach Manali 

Even though there is no direct route for trains and flights to Manali, if still you are willing to travel through either then keep the following route in mind.

Reaching Manali by Train

• No direct trains are available from Chandigarh to Manali.
• You can catch a train from Chandigarh to Joginder Nagar, near Bir Billing.
• From there you will have to travel by bus or car to reach Manali. 
• However, it will take you nearly 20 hours of traveling.

Reaching Manali by Flight

• Flights from Chandigarh to Manali are not regular enough.
• The drop-off is at the Kullu-Manali airport.
• It only takes about 4 hours to reach Manali by air, depending on the route.
• However, it might cost you the whole trip if you book flights during peak seasons. It costs between Rs. 2000 to Rs. 10,000.
• It all depends on the route, and the season you want to travel in. 

Final Note

Visit this beautiful destination with friends and family or do solo traveling, everything is an experience of its own when visiting Manali. This quick guide for how to reach Manali from Chandigarh is just a brief of the routes and the transport you can choose if visiting the place. Everyone experiences things differently so enjoy the journey that will lead you to this beautiful destination at the end.