Discovering the culture
Because of the many languages and religions practiced in Himachal Pradesh, its culture has unique facets. Quite often, the culture translates into annual festivals for various deities, for instance. Dancing, singing and chanting are common in the autumn when many festivals come alive.
Also, visitors will find humble yet intricate artwork sold throughout the region. For instance, look for street vendors who carry items that are distinctly part of Himachal Pradesh's culture.
Undoubtedly, one of the biggest influences in Himachal Pradesh is The Dalai Lama. As a Tibetan refuge, His Holiness resides in this region with a dedicated area for religious freedom. In truth, many followers make a pilgrimage to this land to worship and possibly meet His Holiness.
Best time to visit
There are two times of year when visiting Himachal Pradesh is preferable. For warm-weather activities, book a visit between March and June. During spring, you'll encounter comfortable temperatures and blossoming flowers.
Alternatively, visit between October and February for winter activities. Sledding, skiing and other snow-related activities are popular for both visitors and locals. Be aware, however, that some regions may be closed off because of snow levels or other issues.
Although you might be tempted to visit between July and September, these months are typically reserved for monsoonal moisture. Allow the storms to move through so that you can enjoy either spring or winter activities. Truthfully, most activities and celebrations don't occur during the monsoon months because of dangerous conditions.
Things to do
For the naturalist, hiking within Himachal Pradesh is a global draw. From easy to advanced trails, the valleys, plateaus and mountains challenge every fitness level. Consider some of the most famous treks, such as Triund Hill or Rohtang Pass. Ideally, bring your camera on any trek so that you can capture the flora and fauna along the way.
If you're interested in Tibetan culture, a visit to the Norbulingka Institute should be on your itinerary. Here, you can observe the Tibetan monks, learn about their history and purchase handmade goods in support of this religious refuge. Naturally, spending an entire day at this facility is ideal.
Also, try a trip to the HPCA Stadium. Remarkably, this facility is one of the largest venues for cricket. If you miss a home game, it's still possible to tour the stadium and enjoy the colorful stands and landscape surrounding the property.
Overall, Himachal Pradesh is a perfect location for hiking, finding your spirituality and discovering nature. Planning an itinerary with all your favorite activities can maximize your time in this beautiful land.
