Palampur is the most beautiful tourist destination of Himachal Pradesh, owning immense beautiful eye-catching sites. It is one of the popular getaway destinations for people living in urban lands. This famous hill station of Himachal Pradesh is often referred to as the “Tea Capital of North India”. It is a quaint village nestled in the rolling hills of Himachal Pradesh and there are many exciting and breathtaking places to visit in Palampur that attracts tourists from all over the world.
Those wishing to take a break from their busy city life often find peace and relaxation here in the lap of nature, perhaps due to its untouched and un-commercial beauty. The place is famous for temples, monasteries, and churches dating back centuries ago’s glorious historical era.
Best Places To Visit In Palampur On Your Trip
From the epoch of Mahabharata to the British Raj, the place was of major importance owing to its captivating beauty and exotic atmosphere. The hill station of the north is a popular destination for honeymoons and romantic getaways from the daily grind of city life. Palampur records its place atop the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, making it a popular tourist spot. Slowly unravelling the majestic beauty of this place, let’s quickly dive into the 15 best places to visit in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, buckle up, here we go!
1. Tashi Jong Monastery – Prayer Time
Tashi Jong Monastery is a very beautiful tourist place located in Tashi Jong village between Paprola and Taragarh, 15 KM from Palampur. This beautiful Buddhist monastery situated amidst lush green hills is the abode of many Tibetan refugees. Being home to the Drugpa Kagyu tradition of Buddhism, it is also one of the schools of Kagyu tradition founded by the 8th Khamtrul Rinpoche, Dongyu Nyima.
The colourful architecture of this monastery makes it one of the most attractive places to visit in Palampur. The monastery is embellished with wooden carvings, Buddha statues, and paintings showing the Tibet tradition and culture. The red golden coloured roof of the Tashi Jong Monastery looks very adorning and can be seen from afar.
Many incarnations of Buddha including Buddha Shakyamuni are also kept in the monastery. The Tashi Jong complex is also home to a Tibetan emporium where you can shop for amazing Tibetan arts and crafts. This is an ideal place for peace lovers who want to spend some time in the spiritual atmosphere amidst nature’s beauty.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Everyday)
Entry Fee: No entry fee
2. Tea Gardens In Palampur – Paradise For Tea Lovers
If you are a tea lover, then you must not miss the famous tea gardens of Palampur in Himachal Pradesh. Palampur is also known as the Tea Capital of Northwest India as the lush tea garden here spread across the large area on the hillsides. These tea gardens are the prime attraction of this place, where you can experience the various brands of tea and the tea-making process.
The lush green tea plantations on the slopes amidst the snowy hills all around look like heaven. The aroma of fresh tea refreshes your mind when you enter the tea garden. You will be surprised to hear that the teas here are named after musical verses like Darbari, Bageshwari, Bahar and Malhar.
Tea plantations in the region were started in the mid-19th century by Dr. Jameson, and after that, it became famous for its tea gardens across the world. If you are a tea lover, then you must not miss these tea gardens in Palampur.
Timings: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Entry Fee: No entry fee
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3. Baijnath Shiva Temple – An Architecture Marvel
Baijnath Temple is one of the famous Shiva temples situated in the small town of Baijnath in the Kangra District of Himachal Pradesh. Baijnath Temple is just16 kms away from Palampur. Beautiful in every way, this Shiva temple was built by two local merchants named Ahuka and Manyuka in the 13th Century. Lord Shiva is worshipped in this temple in the form of a Linga called Baijnath or Baidyanath.
Famous for its amazing architecture Baijnath temple attracts a large number of devotees, foreign visitors and pilgrims from all over India throughout the year. The temple is constructed in Nagara style and many sculptures are carved on the walls of the temple and the amazing fact is that some of them predate the construction of the present temple.
It is said that every wish sought from Lord Shiva is fulfilled in this temple and one gets immense peace of mind as soon as one enters the temple. Although there is an influx of devotees and tourists throughout the day in the temple, but the beauty of the temple is worth seeing during Mahashivratri.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: No entry fee
4. Neugal Khad – Nature Paradise
Another popular tourist destination Neugal Khad is just 2 kilometers from the main town of Palampur. With the snow-capped peaks of the Dhauladhar mountains in the backdrop, the place is blessed with clear streams that flow down. The sight of the lofty mountains of the Dhauladhar range and the melodious sound of the water stream is very relaxing. During the monsoon season, this place becomes a scenic destination, making it an ideal picnic spot in Palampur.
Neugal Khad is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Palampur, where you can spend some time amidst the immense beauty of nature. There is also a huge iron bridge that looks a bit old but is a center of attraction. There are many small cafes here where you can sit and enjoy delicious snacks and enjoy the scenic views.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Also Read: Best Hill Stations in Himachal Pradesh for a Perfect Winter Holidays
5. Chamunda Devi Temple – An Spiritual Experience
Chamunda Devi Temple is the most prominent holy shrine located approximately 10 kilometres from Palampur in Dharamshala Tehsil of Kangra district. Chamunda Devi Temple was built in 1762 by Umed Singh. According to local legend, it has been in existence for approximately 700 years. Chamunda Devi Temple is among the 51 Shaktipeeths of Maa Durga and here devotees worship Maa Chamundeshwari, a fierce incarnation of the Goddess Durga.
Nestled in the lap of snow-capped mountains and surrounded by lush green forests, this temple is buzzing with devotees and tourists throughout the year. The temple is constructed with Himachali Architecture, and the holy idol of Maa Chamunda is the center of attraction in the temple. Being one of the famous spiritual and tourist attractions, it is among the best places to visit in Palampur.
Timings are different for the Summer and winter seasons
Summer Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Winter Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: No entry fee
6. Andretta Artist Village – Heritage Place For Artists
There is no better place to visit in Himachal than Palampur, which is heaven for art lovers. Andretta Artist Village is an artists’ colony in Himachal Pradesh famous for its amazing art and craft. The Artists’ Colony was established in 1920 when an Irish theatre artist and environmentalist, Norah Richards, moved here from Lahore and dedicated herself to building the village. Now this place is one of the exciting places to visit in Palampur and a heritage site for many artists.
The village is best known for being home to Norah Centers of Arts, Andretta Pottery and Craft Society, and Sir Sobha Singh Art Gallery. Over time the village of Andretta has become so famous that it has attracted many renowned artists, theatre interpreters, painters, and potters. The Andretta artist village has now earned the reputation as an art connoisseur of India by retaining its legacy of art.
Immersed in the ethereal beauty of the Himalayan slopes and nestled amidst the lofty snow-clad Dhauladhar Range, Andretta Artists Village looks so beautiful that you would never want to leave the place. It is undoubtedly one of the worth visiting places to visit in Palampur.
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7. Saurabh Van Vihar – Perfect Spot For a Picnic
Saurabh Van Vihar is a wonderful nature park situated on the banks of the snow-capped Neugel Khad in the village of Kwat. Spread over a total area of 13 kms, this beautiful tourist attraction was constructed in honour of Captain Saurabh Kalia, the brave soldier who was martyred in the Kargil War. It is a perfect weekend getaway to spend time with your family, overlooking the beautiful view of snow-capped mountains and lush green forests.
Saurabh Van Vihar is just 4 kilometers away from Palampur and is an ideal place for nature lovers. For nature enthusiasts, it is like a paradise where they can witness the immense beauty of nature and many different species of birds and flora-fauna.
This stunning nature park has more than 151 different species of medicinal plants. With 35 acres of space, it has become a fantastic picnic spot in Palampur, with water streams, children’s parks, hiking trails, and the Tiger Hill Bridge.
Timings: 9:00 AM-4:00 PM (whole week)
Entry Fee: INR 10 Per Person
8. Sherabling Monastery – Renowned Buddhist Monastery
Sherabling Monastery is a place that offers an amazing spiritual experience to the people who come here in search of peace. This monastery is situated at Keori near Birbillings in Himachal Pradesh. The Sherabling monastery house a well-known Buddhist preacher known as Tai Siti Rimpoche. Spread over 3 acres of land, Sherbaling Monastery is a religious centre of eastern Tibet and home to more than 1000s monks who learn Buddhist studies and other forms of live art and culture.
Surrounded by pine trees and settled beneath the foothill of the Himalayan Ranges, this monastery looks so beautiful. The Sherabling Monastery is constructed with Tibetan architecture. The sound of prayers and paranomic view of this place provides an amazing spiritual environment. It is one of the best places to visit near Palampur.
The monastery’s huge complex houses beautiful Buddhist temples, gompas, and stupas. The magnificent stupa of Sherbaling is the main attraction of this place. Every year many Buddhist pilgrims and tourists come here. It is one of the most visited Buddhist monasteries in India.
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9. Dhauladhar National Park – For Wildlife Enthusiasts
Dhauladhar National Park is an attractive tourist destination with scenic surroundings and natural beauty. It also houses a ZOO called Gopalpur Zoo, which is a prime attraction of this place. Spread around 30 acres of land, this place has various species of animals and birds, including some rare and endangered species like leopards, black bears, Asiatic lions, red foxes, angora rabbits, sambhar, and deer.
It is located 13 kilometers from Palampur and is well-connected to the main city. Every year this place attracts many tourists and wildlife enthusiasts. Nestled amidst the beautiful Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas and surrounded by lush green pine and deodar trees, it is a wonderful place to spend some time. Beautiful views, majestic location, and a vast variety of wildlife make it one of the best places to visit in Palampur.
Timings: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 50 per person.
10. Jwalamukhi Temple – The Shakti Peetha
Jwalamukhi Temple, or Jwala Devi temple, located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, is one of the most significant Hindu temples in Himachal Pradesh. This temple is among the 51 Shakti Peethas, which are dedicated to the various form of Devi Durga. Here Devotees worship Devi Durga in the form of an Eternal Flame.
There is no idol in the temple as it is believed that the tongue of Maa Sati fell here, and the goddess appears in the form of small blue flames that burn in the cracks of the rock. The most mysterious thing about this flame is it burns day and night continuously without any fuel. The Temple is settled on the Jwalamukhi Parvat and is one of the most visited tourist sites in Himachal Pradesh.
There are many legends associated with this temple and many scientific research has also been done here to find the source of this flame. As one of India’s ancient Hindu temples, thousands of pilgrims visit the temple throughout the year to fulfil their spiritual desires.
Timings: Summers- 5:00 AM-10:00 PM | Winters- 6:00 AM-9:00 PM
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Also Read: Unfolding the History and the Mystery – 11 best Temples in Himachal Pradesh
11. Brajeshwari Devi Temple – A Religious Retreat
Brajeshwari Devi Temple also known as Kangra Devi temple is another one of the 51 Shakti Pithas. The beautiful temple is located in Kangra town, Himachal Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Brajeshwari or Vajreshvari, and Inside the temple, Goddess Brajeshwari is present in the form of Pindi.
According to legends, when Lord Vishnu divided the body of Devi Sati into 51 parts with his Chakra the left breast of Devi Sati fell at this spot thus it became a Shakti Peetha. This temple is a major Hindu religious site and is among the best places to visit in Palampur.
The festival of Makar Sankranti is significantly celebrated in the temple. On this day, along with Himachal, devotees from every corner of India come here. The amazing view and spiritual aura of the temple will make you flabbergasted.
Timings: 6:00 AM-8:00 PM
Entry Fee: No entry fee
12. Toy Train Ride – Become a Child Again
If you are in Palampur, you must try this toy train ride. This is the time to live your childhood again and experience the fun and thrill you have been missing. On your trip to Palampur, give yourself a ride of joy and a ride of unforgettable memories and lovely feelings. This toy train runs between Palampur and Pathankot and passes through beautiful mountains, lush green forests, streams, glistening waterfalls and meandering rivers. During your train journey, you will witness scenic views and rural villages and their way of life. It is one of the best places to visit in Palampur, and you must try this. It will be worth visiting.
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13. Sobha Singh Art Gallery – For All Art Lovers
Sobha Singh Art Gallery is another famous attraction in Palampur dedicated to the wonderful work of eminent artist Sobha Singh. If you are interested in art, you should take visit the Sobha Singh Art Gallery in Palampur, which houses his famous art and paintings. Art enthusiasts worldwide visit this art gallery to marvel at these gorgeous paintings and sculptures.
Some of his most famous canvas prints, posters, and sculptures are displayed here. This art gallery is located in Andretta village, which is located 14 kms south of Palampur. Shobha Singh art gallery is one of the best places to visit in Palampur if you want to experience something creative and unique.
Location: Village, Andretta, Himachal Pradesh
Timing: From 9.30 AM to 5.00 PM (All days)
Entry Fee: INR 10 for Indians, INR 100 for foreigners
14. Bundlamata Temple – Marvel At The Beautiful Idol
Bundlamata temple is one of the ancient temples in Palampur finds its strings attached to the 5th century. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Bundla and has been attracting tourists and pilgrims for ages. The temple is situated 2km from Palampur on the banks of the Bundla stream in Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh. Those who visit the temple believe that all their wishes are fulfilled.
Its architecture is reminiscent of prehistoric times, and the beautifully carved idol of Goddess Bundla placed in the temple. The temple has its own ritual which has been performed in the shrines from ages. The temple is one of the significant places to visit in Palampur.
If you want to reach the temple, then hiking is the best option to explore the place and experience the amazing view of the surroundings. With the Dhauladhar range in the background, Bundla stream nearby and surrounded by tea gardens in the vicinity, this temple provides an eye-catching sight that remains etched in the memory of visitors for a very long time.
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15. Shree Jakhani Mata Temple – Modest Mountain Temple
Shree Jakhani Mata Temple is another beautiful temple to visit in Palampur. This temple is dedicated to Devi Latti Jakhni. The temple is located 5 km from Palampur at Jakhni Mata Mandir Rd, Dugh, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh. Shree Jakhani Mata Temple is itself a marvelous temple where you can meditate and seek the blessing of Goddess Jakhani.
The special morning and evening aarti is a must to attend to experience the surreal aura of the place. The surrounding of the temple is beautified with tea gardens and the Dhauladhar range. With its heartwarming spiritual aura temple also offer an amazing elevated view of valleys. If you are in Palampur then you add this temple among the places to visit in Palampur.
16. St John Church – An Iconic Structure
As one of the most famous places to visit in Palampur, St John Church was rebuilt in the 1920s. Beautifully situated in a valley, this church stands out for its stunning design and interior as well as the surreal landscape all around. The moment you walk into this church, you will feel the presence of the divine and by sitting there for a while, you will find peace relaxing your mind. You must visit the church on a Sunday morning if you want to attend a prayer session.
Location: 26, Palampur – Dharamshala Rd, Shastri Nagar
Conclusion
So these are some of the best places to visit in Palampur, but this place has a lot to explore and discover. Not only just a few places listed above but also there are other unravelled sites and beauties that yearn to be found out and get admired by the tourists. Hence if you are planning a holiday or a short visit to Himachal Pradesh, don’t forget to stop by and enjoy the serenity and magical atmosphere of Palampur.