Himachal Pradesh is a state that defines what the beauty of nature is all about. With tall deodar, oak trees, and pine trees that grace the beautiful meadows, clear streams, and green valleys; the state is truly a dreamland! But going to whether it is only about the places in Himachal Pradesh will not be all you need. Of course, enjoying the beautiful routes that are a part of Himachal Pradesh is essential.

If you are looking for something beyond the beaten path, then you simply need to travel some of the captivating roads in the state.

Four road trip journeys in Himachal would make up your trip to this region in the Himalayan Mountains. Here, you will find the most amazing views.

Shimla to Spiti Valley (via Kinnaur)

Situated in Himachal Pradesh, Spiti Valley is a popular destination for tourists. To reach this beautiful area, it is best to arrive first from Shimla. As you drive farther down the roads, spectacular views can be seen through the trees at Kufri. Pause for a few moments to fully appreciate the beauty of Kufri. Then proceed to Kufri, which is famous for its rugged and brownish shades of beauty.

Head off to the south of Kalpa and keep your eyes peeled for the rows of Junipers, Pines, Firs and Rhododendrons along the road. You’re now entering Kinnaur. As you enter the town, you will discover many apple and apricot orchards. You might spend some time wandering through these orchards and collecting some fresh fruits. Browse the locales that overlook the breathtaking views of Kinnaur. Your journey into the remote area near Kinnaur brings you to the hamlets of Pooh, Tabo, and Nako. The wonderful panorama throughout the ride (deed undone!) ends in Kaza.

Distance: 690 KM
Time: 18 hours 50 mins

It’s better to begin early, as there are many bumpy curves on this road which could take a while to manage. Driving the lines near Spiti Valley at night is not advised; furthermore, the mountain roads there aren’t legally allowed to traverse at night.

Sipping on some chai and Maggi as you’re passing by a wayside stand is a good way to stimulate yourself.

Manali to Leh (via Leh-Manali Highway)

The nature of this road trip is so beautiful that the rider’s dream is to safely travel it in this SUV. It’s just that this route looks amazing, and provides a much better and safer journey experience if you ride it in a comfortable car. Indeed, our language is exhausted while describing the beauty of this road. This road starts from the crowded city centre in Manali. Once you reach Manali, first you will visit the Manu Temple (devoted to Sage Manu) and then the beautiful Jogini Falls. Just a few more kilometers up the road, you will proceed to the fantastic Mandi waterfall and the picturesque Prashar Lake. Then follow the road to Kiratpur Sahib.

At the Gurdwara, make sure to take time on the bridge, which provides beautiful aerial views of the nearby mountain ranges. As you proceed, you will come across the lovely towns of Bhunter and Kullu. Both of these places offer amazing vistas of the Himalayan mountains.

The moment you will come into Leh, you’ll find your surroundings transformed. The greenery that had instructed your retreat will accompany you along the journey. Shortly after, you’ll see a dramatic change in the surroundings. This change will indicate the termination of your tour in Leh.

• Distance: 479 KM
• Time: 13 hours 30 mins
• On average, this road’s altitude is 3 to 4 km above sea level.
• The route contains many winding turns, making it challenging to drive on.

Shimla to Kangra Valley

Located at the foot of the Dhauladhar Range, the Katra Valley lies between Shimla and Kangra. In Kangra, you’ll find the unforgettable sights of the area and the surrounding mountains along with the rest of Hateyarkhan gewog. If you drive through the outskirts of Shimla, you’ll pass through many incredible viewpoints.

Your cab makes frequent 360-degree turns through hills as it travels between unique villages and makes periodic stops at tea gardens along the way. Just before arriving at the village of Andretta, numerous tea gardens spread out nearby. Having just recently come to Andretta, you will see many renowned actors, painters, and potters walking through its streets.

If you wish to unwind in this quaint village with its majestic deodar and pine trees and Brittonean rolling hills and sloping, Palampur is a nice place for an extended stay. Another hour will bring you to the town of Kangra and you will have a rest or revisit some of the souvenir stops you had made while en route.

Distance: 234 KM
Time: 7 hours 30 mins

While passing through Palampur, make sure to stop by the market and sample a dish of Kangri dhokla from a traditional Himachali eatery.

Shimla to Manali (via Mandi)

Shimla and Manali, which are among the most popular tourist destinations in India, have been explored so much that visitors want to avoid them nowadays. Nevertheless, the maxim “Beauty lies in the journey,” reminds us that listing these cities as the second most beautiful is a considered opinion. Again, the true beauty of the journey starts once you’ve left behind the city of Shimla.

The valleys and meadows to your right were your allies, while the mountains were the rationale for your left. As you continued, River Beas bounced along with your vehicle. It played hide-and-seek in some places. Some locations on the banks of River Beas were so picturesque that you couldn’t help but stop and take some pictures.

Get ready for some unpredictable wilderness experiences, as you cross Sri Hanogi Mata Temple. The heavily forested path lies ahead and you might observe a multitude of different plant species, some birds that migrate seasonally, and if you’re fortunate, you might observe some large wildlife roaming across the road. Mandi, Bhunter and Kullu will be reached in the next step of your journey.

• Distance: 247 KM
• Time: 7 hours 30 mins
• The restaurants along this route have authentic dishes from Himachal cuisine.

You’ll have an unforgettable time in Himachal Pradesh, particularly driving through its spectacular roads. If that’s the case, then by all means, book a cab and get the most out of your road trip in India!