For the explorers who love mountains and enjoy nature, the great Himalayas are the ultimate haven. These mountains are beyond breathtaking with beautiful visuals of snow clapped peaks, gushing rivers, high altitude deserts, dense forests, alpine meadows, and many more exquisite places which are tempting for those adventurers who are looking to discover something unknown. The beauty of this majestic mountain range is so alluring that you cannot stop yourself from delving into it further. Known for its religious, historical and geographical significance, the Himalayas will take you to a path of peace and unexpected adventure. Home to the tallest peak on earth, the Himalayas Mountain Ranges are located in the north side of India which separates the Indian Subcontinent from the Tibetan region. I am sure you will like our list of Top 10 Himalayan Regions to visit in 2019.
With the enormous geography, it is really difficult to choose among the best, however, here is the list of top ten amazing destinations hidden in the Himalayas which you must explore in your next trip in 2019.
Top 10 Himalayan Regions to visit in 2019 (From India)
#1. Leh-Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir
From the otherworldly landscapes to the incredible culture, Ladakh is beyond belief in all spheres. Ladakh is divided into two districts named as Leh and Kargil. Located at an elevation of 11,000 feet above the sea level, Leh is a city like no other with excess of attractions to visit. Every year, many trekkers are attracted to the challenging peaks and rugged terrain of Leh-Ladakh. The place has many green valleys, rivers, some of the world’s highest mountain passes and people can still see remains of ancient Buddhist and Tibetan culture.
Apart from the stunning sceneries, charming monasteries, engaging markets, Leh-Ladakh is also a very popular hub for adventure buffs who like mountain climbing and mountain biking.
#2. Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh
Nestled in the panoramic valleys of Kangra in Himachal Pradesh at an average elevation of 1475 meters above the sea level is the ever beautiful Dharamshala. This serene hill station is surrounded by thick cover of deodar cedar trees, snow-capped magnificent Dhauladhar mountain range in the backdrop and is bathed in the glory of Mother Nature. Considered as one of the most awe-inspiring tourist destinations in India, this city still has the dominant presence of Buddhism culture with a lot of Tibetan Monasteries.
Dharmshala has a lot of beautiful attractions like Tsuglagkhang Complex, Dal Lake, Masrur, Kangra Museum, Naddi Village, etc which draws a lot of visitors from all over the country. The city is divided into upper and lower sections; with the upper section also known as McLeodganj which is a famous gateway to many trekking routes to the Himalayas.
#3. Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
If you fancy a stay amid mountainous terrains outlined by restless rivers then Spiti valley is the ideal place for you. Spiti offers you much more than monasteries and pristine glaciers; it possesses an exclusive combination of both Indian and Tibetan cultures. Spiti Valley is perched in between high mountain ranges in the North-Eastern part of Himachal Pradesh and is one of the least populated places in India. This valley offers profusely green landscape, historic monasteries, picture-postcard villages, and pristine lakes with incredible altitudes. It is also famous for the nearby Pin Valley for its amazing landscapes and beautiful scenery.
For professional trekkers, who are ready for rough terrains and extreme weather conditions, Spiti valley is a treasure trove as it offers the feeling of uncharted remoteness. As an amazing road trip destination, Spiti valley would also be an ideal place for people seeking solace and alluring view of the hidden riches of Himalayan region.
#4. Sikkim
Home to the third highest peak in the world, Kanchenjunga, Sikkim is a small hill state in the North Eastern part of India. It is mostly surrounded by the famous Khangchendzonga National Park. You can enter Sikkim only through the state of West Bengal. This state is distinguished for its beautiful Buddhist monasteries such as Rumtek, Pemayangtse, along with its peculiar villages, towering mountains, holy lakes and pristine scenery.
Sikkim is called as paradise for adventure seekers with popular adventures like kayaking, mountain biking, hang gliding, trekking and river rafting. You can either just spend relaxing vacation in the lap of Mother Nature with fresh mountain air and mesmerizing views or indulge in the myriad adventure activities. You may want to read our post on 10 interesting facts about Sikkim.
#5. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Another stunning picturesque Himalayan destination is the capital of Himachal Pradesh- Shimla. It is India’s most popular hill station with remarkable mountain tracts. The railway line from Shimla to Kalka which is elevated 10,000 feet above the sea level has been recognised as the World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Shimla, also known as the summer capital of British India is famous for the Victorian-era architecture, convoluted bazaars and interminable pedestrian shopping mall. There are many notable places that call for a must visit such as The Ridge, Mall Road, Summer Hill, and Christ Church. In the central part of the town, traffic is banned making the walk uphill very pleasant. The hill station is also famous for river rafting, ice skating and trekking.
#6. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
The holy city of Rishikesh, situated on the banks of the Ganges River at the foothills of Himalayas is the birthplace of yoga. The town is considered sacred and hold spiritual significance for all the Hindus as it is believed that meditation in Rishikesh leads to salvation. There are numerous ashrams, mediation centers, yoga institutes and temples in the town which are frequented by many international travelers and pilgrims throughout the year. It is also famous for amazing treks to Neer Garh waterfall.
The place is acclaimed for adrenaline pumping adventure sports and spiritual yoga equally. The town hold a relaxing old world charm and is the perfect gateway to unwind surrounded by scared rivers and mountains. If you are planning to visit Rishikesh than white river rafting, bungee jumping and hiking are the absolute must to do in your list of activities.
#7. Andretta, Himachal Pradesh
An outright must visit in Himachal Pradesh, Andretta Village situated in the Kangra district is a place like no other. It is a place of interest for people who admire art, pottery and theatre. This offbeat strange village is known for striking backdrop of Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas and Shivalik Hills.
The village came into prominence when an Irish artist Norah Richards moved there in 1920s. Since then it is visited by many art lovers from all over the world. If you are looking for a peaceful trip amidst amazing ambiance, artistic collections and long nature walks, then Andretta is the place for you.
#8. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
Situated at an elevation of 1500 meters above the sea level, Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh is a paradise for peace seekers. Many tourists place in Ziro have been announced as the World Heritage Sites.
Inhabited by the Apatani tribe, this place is famous for its Pine Hills, sprawling rice fields, lush green forests, bamboo houses, rivulets with wide range of flora and fauna. The view is spectacular from every angle and with the cool climate; Ziro is an optimal destination for those who want see a part of the world which has not been touched by modern technology. Adventure lovers, who are looking for a ethereal trekking experience, won’t be disappointed in Ziro.
#9. Mayodia, Arunachal Pradesh
Situated in the Upper Dibang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, near the Indo-China border is Mayodia Pass where you can have the unparalleled magical experience of snowfall. It is located at an altitude of 2655 meters above sea level and experiences heavy snowfall in January making it a paradise for snow lovers.
Snow-capped Mayodia is the ultimate destination for bikers and adventure buffs; local bikers groups organize excursions during the cold months. It is the least dense area in Arunachal Pradesh with lush green landscape and the great height of this region offers amazing trekking opportunities.
#10. Chopta Valley, Uttarakhand
This is the last Himalayan region on our list of Top 10 Himalayan Regions to visit in 2019. Positioned at an elevation of 2680 meters above sea level, in the lap of the Himalayas, Chopta is situated in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand. It is a trekker’s absolute dream; intermediate trekkers can explore this valley for an exhilarating and life-altering experience. Apart from the enthralling trek, this place is also excellent for camping under the sky filled with stars. Just imagine waking up in the morning surrounded by magnificent mountains!
Chopta has become the hotspot for nature lovers with the evergreen dense forest, grassy meadows and diverse Himalayan flora and fauna. If you are planning a vacation, do not miss the Kanchula Korak Musk Deer Sanctuary, to explore the rare animal species. This place is also home to the scared Tungnath Temple; the highest Shiva Temple in India which is frequently visited by many Hindu devotees. Standing at an altitude of 3680 meter, the grandeur of this shrine is breathtaking.
Top 10 Himalayan Regions to visit in 2019 (Out of India)
#11. Paro, Bhutan
Paro is an amazing town situated in Paro district, of Paro Valley, in western Bhutan. The city is considered as the gateway to Bhutan, as it is the home to Paro Airport, the only international airport in the country. One of the main attractions of the town is Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery that is believed to be built in 10th century CE. Other monasteries and Buddhist temples situated in or near the town include Paro Taktsang and Kyichu Lhakhang. The town is situated at close proximity to the hills, and is crisscrossed at multiple points by Paro Chu River. These features contribute to making the town absolutely stunning.
#12. Punakha, Bhutan
Punakha is a city in Punakha district of western Bhutan. You will find a lot of attractions in Punakha, like Punakha Dzong, a historic palace complex in Punakha, Chimi Lhakhang Temple, Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, and so on. Here, you can also get involved in adventure sports such as rafting. Like many other big or small cities in Bhutan, many of Punakha’s building have been built using the Dzong principle of architecture, which makes the entire place look amazing. Of course, there are Buddhist influences, which add beauty, yet simplicity to the overall appearance of the area.
#13. Wangdue Phodrang , Bhutan
Wangdue Phodrang is a town situated in Wangdue Phodrang district of eastern Bhutan. One of the major attractions of the place is Wangdi Phodrang Dzong, with which the town shares its name. It is actually a palace complex built in 1638 CE by Ngawang Namgyal. The structure was destroyed in 2012 because of fire. However, in the years after the accident, the building and its content have been renovated. Apart from the fact that it is situated among the hills, and borrows beauty from nature, the tourists are sure to find the architecture of the town, and the religious aspect quite interesting.
#14. Chitlang, Nepal
Chitlang is a beautiful small village in Makwanpur district of central Nepal. The place is known for its stunning view-points, and sceneries, the temples of Krishna and Swochhanda Bhairav, goat cheese factory, and so on. Kulekhani Hydropower Plant and Chandragiri Hills are situated at close proximity to the village, and serve as attractions for many tourists visiting the place. The village is believed to be established more than a thousand years ago. The then monarch, King Amshuverma of the Lichchhavi Dynasty gifted the land to the Gopals living in the regions. Their main occupation was to breed and rear cattle.
#15. Lo Manthang, Nepal
Lo Manthang is often nicknamed as the Forbidden City of Nepal, or the Land beyond the Mountains. The reason for its former nickname is that back in the days when it was ruled by kings, a great wall had been built around the city as a fence. Entering the city was prohibited, and the travelers were required to take special permission to enter the city. And the reason for its latter nickname is that it is situated further north from the Himalayan Range. So, for the rest of the country, the Himalayan Range is towards the north, but for this city, it is towards the south.
#16. Namche Bazaar, Nepal
Namche Bazaar is a small town in the Solukhumbhu district of eastern Nepal. The town is also known as the gateway of Mt. Everest, the tallest peak in the world. All the trekkers who seek to trek on the trails, and ascend the peaks that happen to fall in the Everest region need to pass through this settlement area. The majority of people living in the town are Sherpas, who have their own rich culture and tradition. However, the place is filled with amenities, such as restaurants with western fast food, high speed internet everywhere, great lodging facilities, and so on.
#17. Jumla, Nepal
Jumla is a beautiful town in the Jumla district of western Nepal. Once one of the most underdeveloped regions of Nepal, has now witnessed tremendous growth over the past few years. Jumla district is home to Rara Lake, one of the greatest tourist attractions in the country. With the neighboring district Mugu, Jumla shares Rara National Park, which is one of the richest conservation areas of Nepal, when it comes to wildlife. In another neighboring district Dolpa, Shey Phoksundo Lake and Shey Phoksundo National Park, also known for rich wildlife, are located. Luckily, Jumla happens to be amidst all these natural attractions.
#18. Shigatse, Tibet
Shigatse is a city located in Tsang province of southern Tibet. Shigatse is also known as gateway to Mt. Everest, as the climbers who wish to climb the peak need to pass through this city. One can also go for numerous trekking trips from this city. The city is also the home to Tashihunpo Monastery, which was established in 1447 CE, by the first Dalai Lama. Another famous monastery here is the Shakya monastery. Because of its location, the city offers great views of the pale hills and the mountains beyond them. On a clear day, you can view Mt. Cho Oyu towards the south.
19. Shannan, Tibet
Shannan is a city located in the southern part of Tibet. For any tourist visiting the city, the place is filled with attractions to explore. One of its most significant attractions include the Yumbulakhar Palace, which is said to be built between 400 and 200 BC. Another must visit place is the Tumuli, or the Tomb of the Tibetan Kings. The coffins with the remains of 29th 30th 31st and 32nd king of Tibet are preserved here. Other pieces of architecture include Zamasang Palace, and Namseling Manor. Similarly, the major monasteries situated in the city include Samye Monastery, built in 763 AD, Tradruk monastery, built in 641 AD, Lhalong Monastery, built in 1151 AD, and so on.
20. Lhasa, Tibet
Lhasa is the capital city of Tibet, and is located in Lhasa district of southern Tibet. Being the capital, it is one of the most visited places in the country. As a part of Tibet, Buddhist influences can be noticed here up to a great extent, especially in its architecture and culture. Few of the significant attractions here include Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple and Norbulingka Palaces. Other pieces of architecture representing art, culture and religion in Tibet include Ramoche Temple, Tibet Museum, and Monument to the Peaceful Liberation of Tibet. The city, quite like the entire country, is also known for its natural beauty. The amalgamation of natural heritage with man-made architecture appears stunning.
That was our list of Top 10 Himalayan Regions to visit in 2019. A trip to Himalayas is a dream for many; we hope this list made the planning for the upcoming adventurous holiday easy for you.