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Tourist Places in Himachal Pradesh That You Cannot Miss!

7th October 202220th March 2025Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged Barog, cottages, Dharamshala, Glass suite in Manali, homestay, homestays near Delhi, long weekend getaways, Luxury homestays in Manali, Manali, private cottage in Manali, Raison, saffronstays, shimla, Signature by SaffronStays, Tourist Places In Himachal Pradesh, travelogues, Weekend getaways, Where Families Bond

Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayan range, Himachal Pradesh is one of the best tourist places in India. Featuring snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys and dense forests, it oozes natural beauty and serenity. In addition to its mesmerising landscapes, the state is widely known for its vibrant culture and delicious cuisines. Moreover, offering a range of thrilling adventure activities to indulge in, it is a paradise for adrenaline junkies. Attracting hundreds of thousands of tourists all round the year, it is home to some of the most incredible tourist places in the country. So, here is a list of tourist places in Himachal Pradesh.

Tourist Places In Himachal Pradesh — Picture Source: Google

Raison

If you are looking for an off-beat destination still unspoiled by the hordes of tourists, Raison is just the place for you. Situated on the banks of River Beas, it flaunts breathtaking landscapes featuring thick greenery, gushing streams and rocky mountains. Besides, this tourist spot is packed with several remarkable camping grounds. Moreover, it is home to some amazing cottages and homestays like SaffronStays Snowdrop, Raison and SaffronStays Persimmon House, Raison. In fact, those enjoying a comfortable stay at these villas can also choose to explore places to visit nearby like Kullu.

Price: INR 5500/- onwards

Manali

Enjoy a scenic road trip from Delhi or Chandigarh as you head to Manali: one of the most popular tourist place in the entire Himachal Pradesh. Featuring snow-capped mountains, towering trees and pleasant weather, it is a perfect destination for everyone including couples on their honeymoon, adventurers looking to enjoy a solo trip and those travelling with friends or family. Offering the most magnificent views of the Dhauladhar and the Pir Panjal ranges, Manali is home to a large number of tourist attractions such as Mall Road, Jogini Waterfall, Hadimba Temple, Parvati Valley and Arjun Gufa. Moreover, it has several nearby places to visit like Kullu, Solang, Rohtang, Manikaran, Khirganga and Malana. Additionally, when you are in Manali, you can choose to stay in one of its awesome private homestays like SaffronStays The Mont Arcadia, Manali, SaffronStays The Amlyn, Manali, SaffronStays Monarch Manor, Manali and SaffronStays Kesar Villa, Manali.

Price: INR 4950/- onwards

Shimla

Serving as the capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is definitely the most popular must-visit place in the beautiful state. Located 115 kms away from Chandigarh, the city features striking colonial architecture, breathtaking scenic beauty and pleasant weather, it is an awe-inspiring tourist spot that attracts thousands of travellers all through the year. It houses a large number of famous tourist attractions such as Mall Road, Lord Hanuman’s Temple, Viceregal Lodge and Annandale. While in Shimla, you can opt for staying at a luxurious private cottage like SaffronStays Hardy’s Hideaway, Shimla. During your stay, you can also visit the nearest tourist places like Tattapani, Solan and Mashobra.

Price: INR 4950/- onwards

Gushaini

For those looking to enjoy a retreat away from noisy crowds and the chaos of city life, visiting Gushaini can be a great idea. Situated in the gorgeous Tirthan Valley of Kullu, this destination is widely known for its rustic setting, marvellous landscapes and idyllic atmosphere. Serving as a heaven for adventure enthusiasts, it is full of incredible camping spots and trekking trails. Flaunting roaring rivers and majestic mountains,and lovely orchards full of peaches, pears and apricots, it is a delight for nature lovers. When in Gushaini, you can explore amazing tourist spots like Himalayan National Park, Rolla, Sarchi and Kamala Village and Sarloskar Lake. Those looking to experience a memorable vacation here can choose to stay in the luxurious SaffronStays Tragopan, Gushaini.

Price: INR 6250/- onwards

Barog

Oozing serenity and natural beauty, Barog is a spectacular tourist place in Himachal Pradesh, located close to Shimla. This lush green hill station is lined with towering oak and pine trees, enhancing its visual appeal. Nestled amidst the mighty Himalayas, it is steeped in vibrant traditions and pre-colonial history. Situated at an altitude of around 1560 m, it is an excellent place for those looking to indulge in exciting activities like trekking and camping. Moreover, it is home to several fabulous tourist attractions like Choor Chandni Peak, Karol Tibba, Dagshai, Grave of Barog, Dolanji Bon Monastery and Sholoni Devi Temple. Also, you can make your trip here all the more memorable by choosing to stay at the beautiful SaffronStays Grandview Haven, Barog.

Price: INR 18000/- onwards

Dharamshala

Another one of the most incredible tourist places in Himachal Pradesh is Dharamshala. With a vibrant culture, amazing weather and picturesque landscapes, it is just the place for a relaxing vacation in the lap of nature. Also referred to as ‘Little Lhasa of India’, it is renowned for having served as the holy residence of the Dalai Lama. It flaunts a number of spectacular tourist attractions such as Kangra Fort, Bhagsunath Temple, Bhagsu Falls, Kangra Art Museum, Dalai Lama Temple Complex and Kangra Valley. Moreover, you can choose to explore the nearest tourist spots like Khajjiar, Bir Billing and Palampur. It is within a driveable distance from Chandigarh.

Kasauli

Counted amongst the most serene and beautiful tourist spots in Himachal Pradesh, the idyllic hill town of Kasauli is situated very close to the outskirts of Haryana and Punjab. Serving as the perfect getaway destination for those looking for some peace and quiet, it houses several awesome places to visit such as Anglican Church, Monkey Point, Gilbert Trail, Sunset Point, Gurkha Fort, Shirdi Sai Baba Temple and Central Research Library. During your trip, you can also explore the nearby places to visit including Parwanoo and Solan.

Bir Billing

If you are an adrenaline junkie always seeking the thrill of an adventure, Bir Billing is the best tourist place in Himachal Pradesh for you. Nestled amidst lush green landscapes, snow-capped peaks and rolling valleys, it is a prominent hub for a plethora of adventure activities such as paragliding, trekking, mountain biking and hang gliding. In addition to being a paradise for adventure buffs, it is also an excellent destination for those looking to enjoy sightseeing. It houses several amazing tourist attractions such as Vaidyanath, Palampur Tea Cooperative and Buddhist monasteries in Choggan, Bhattu and Chauntra Bhattu colony.

Home to so many breathtaking tourist destinations, Himachal Pradesh is undoubtedly a dream come true for travellers from all walks of life. So, make your trip an unforgettable one by exploring one or more of the above-mentioned tourist places in the state. Also, stay at one of the gorgeous SaffronStays private villas to make your vacation as luxurious and pleasant as possible.

Travel With Friends To These 8 Budget-Friendly Villas & Homestays

3rd October 202220th March 2025Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged family get together, family holidays, homestay, homestays near Delhi, Karjat, Lonavala, long weekend getaways, Nashik, Raison, saffronstays, travelogues, villas near Mumbai, Weekend getaways, Weekend Getaways from Mumbai, weekend trips

“The best things in life are the people we love, the places we’ve been and the memories we’ve made along the way” And what better than creating memories as you travel with friends in a stunning villa with numerous activities and experiences to indulge in? We have curated a list of some of the best private villas and homestays in India where you and your gang can have the times of your lives. (Without breaking the bank!)

SaffronStays Nature’s Bounty, Nashik

Fun can’t be measured you say? Presenting Nature’s Bounty, a 4-bedroom villa in Nashik that sits on an expansive 3-acre of land full of trees and surrounded by lush greenery on all sides. Challenge your pals to a match of table tennis, badminton or football on the sprawling lawns while the others splash around in the huge private swimming pool. Walk around in the organic farms where you can pluck on some fresh guavas and then hang out with the rabbits or the ducks in the pond! End the day as you jam on to an awesome karaoke session while you huddle around the bonfire and enjoy delicious home-cooked meals. Sounds like a fulfilling day, doesn’t it? And that too, only 3 hours from Mumbai!

Maximum Guests – 15 guests
Pricing per night – Rs 24000 onwards

SaffronStays Bellini, Karjat

A Pandora’s box of luxury and fun! SaffronStays Bellini is a 3-bedroom private villa near Mumbai perfect for parties and celebrations. A quick road trip leads you to this pet-friendly pool villa in Karjat which boasts of a large swimming pool and lip-smacking meals. Each corner of this bungalow with a pool has a cool name (like a little world of its own!).

Gather around in the ‘HippoDrome’, the sophisticated amphitheatre where you can host the coolest party of the year.
Barbecue tastes better with friends and more so in the ‘SmokeLand’, the infamous barbecue corner.
One level above is ‘HIDE’, the elevated bird-watching gallery along with the ‘Teen Patti’ Corner. Enjoy the evening views from ‘Combe’- the deck with unobstructed valley views.
And of course, the ‘Sports Zone’, where the name speaks for itself!

Maximum Guests – 14 guests
Pricing per night – Rs 13500 onwards

SaffronStays Aster, Lonavala

Surrounded by the magnificent Sahyadris and overlooking farms, SaffronStays Aster is where you and your gang can enjoy the simple joys of life. This 4-bedroom pool villa in Lonavala is a 2-hour scenic road trip away from Mumbai. A refreshing dip in the pool followed by a little picnic in the lush green garden as you reminisce about your college days, those are the moments that you will always hold dear. The chilly evenings will blend into peaceful nights as you relax in the gazebo over some beverages and delicious home-fresh food. When with friends, sleep takes a backseat doesn’t it? Retire in the living room for a fun gossip sesh and if you manage to stay awake, don’t forget to catch the sunrise over a cup of chai from the cosy terrace of this pool villa near Mumbai.

Maximum Guests – 12 guests
Pricing per nigh t- Rs 18000 onwards

SaffronStays Thalassea, Alibaug

The minute you think of the beach, you think of enjoyment and peace. Bringing this wish to life is SaffronStays Thalassea, a 3-bedroom beachfront villa in Alibaug. Only 2 hours from Mumbai and less than 30 minutes from the Mandwa Jetty, this private villa near Thal beach is surrounded by beautiful coconut trees. Beauty in simplicity, there are some aesthetic ‘grammable corners so click away to your heart’s content. With a spacious family room and huge garden which leads you to the stunning beach, this villa for rent in Alibaug is ideal for a friend’s getaway near Mumbai. Lounge in the beach-facing balcony with the gang and relax in solitude under the starlit sky.

Maximum Guests – 6 guests
Pricing per night – Rs 11700 onwards

SaffronStays De La Mer, Goa

Goa = PARTY! A luxury villa in Goa with a pool though? Pool Party! Perched on a cliff with unobstructed views of the sea is the 3-bedroom SaffronStays De La Mer, a private villa near the Nerul Church and Reis Magos fort in Goa and only 30 minutes away from the infamous town of Panjim. Known for its Goan cuisine and old cafés, our caretakers will help you arrange the best dishes in Goa for a hip and happening pool party at the villa! Splash the day away in the pool or by the Reis Magos beach which is 10 minutes away from the villa. If you want to avoid the crowd, then settle down on the first level of this villa which has a sea-facing balcony and plenty of space for your friends. Soak in the endless views of the sea as you hear the waves hit the beach and the sky changes colours.

Maximum Guests – 12 guests
Pricing – Rs 26000 onwards

SaffronStays Nishta, Alibaug

SaffronStays Nishta is a 4-bedroom pet-friendly bungalow in Alibaug surrounded by lush paddy fields and panoramic skies. This private pool villa in Alibaug is just 10 minutes away from the Mandwa Ferry Terminal and is perfect for your gang and you to rejuvenate in lap of luxury. Hear that? That’s the villa calling you to explore the quaint town of Sasawane. After a day of exploring the pristine beaches of Alibaug, relax in the outdoor gazebo over a cup of chai or lounge by the pool with your gang. This private pool villa near South Mumbai is the perfect place for a friend’s reunion.

Maximum Guests – 12 guests
Pricing per night- Rs 22000 onwards

SaffronStays Horizon 360°, Mahabaleshwar

The evergreen hill station we all love! SaffronStays Horizon 360° is a 5-bedroom private villa in Mahabaleshwar, 3 hours from Pune and offers infinite views of the greenery around. Cosy corners with splashes of colours will instantly cheer you up. The holiday home in Mahabaleshwar is artistically decorated so you may find your newest screensaver here! There is a huge lawn and various sit-out spots where y’all can have a fun time creating beautiful memories. And what’s a trip without delicious food? Gorge on some lip-smacking delicacies that would leave you wanting more! The highlight of this villa near Pune is the view it offers. You can catch both the sunrise and sunset as you relax on the balcony on the first level as a cool breeze flows and the sky gets painted in all of its beautiful hues.

Maximum Guests – 15 guests
Pricing per night- Rs 4900 onwards

SaffronStays Persimmon House, Raison

When you think hills, you think Manali! Bringing the Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani fantasy to life is this 4-bedroom homestay in Raison, a quick 30-minute drive from Manali. SaffronStays Persimmon is located right beside a paragliding strip where you can watch people land or fly up there in the sky yourself. Huddle up on the patio on the ground floor for a round of charades as you feast on wholesome pahadi food while enjoying the company and the breathtaking views of the valley. Enjoy a game of badminton on the court and freshly brewed tea on the green lawn. When in Manali, you will always be in the mood for nature’s walk. Explore the surroundings and settle for a pleasant evening on the balcony upstairs as the sun sets.

Maximum Guests – 12 guests
Pricing per night- Rs 4400 onwards

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your friends and take your pick! Fulfil your wish of planning that epic getaway where its’ you and your friends singing away to classics or watching horror movies, thinking about the good ole days or planning your future. Friends are family too and these villas are exactly where families bond.

Top 5 Unexplored Places in North India

16th September 202220th March 2025Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged Barog, Bhimtal, cottages, family holidays, Homestays, Manali, Naggar, Nainital, Near Delhi, Raison, saffronstays, Sapotra, shimla, travelogues, Weekend getaways

The northern region of India is endowed with intriguing vacation spots. The captivating places in North India should not be missed because of the diverse, vivid culture, intriguing traditions, colorful historical buildings, and mouthwatering cuisine. It can be difficult to resist setting off into the enigmatic snow-capped mountains, which excite adventure seekers, and into the northern plains, which are home to majestic medieval forts that will enchant you with their magnificent attractiveness. Many places besides New Delhi, Agra, Amritsar, and Ladakh define the beauty of North India and demand to be explored more!

The following is a list of the 5 best North India tourist places, which is not mainstream and exemplifies what makes this part of the country special.

Raison, Himachal Pradesh

Raison is a small group of villages situated along the Beas River. It is 13 km from Kullu. It is one of the unexplored places in North India for rafting and an absolute must-see on any adventure tourist’s itinerary while in Kullu. Raison, located at an elevation of 1433 meters, is popular for its camping and white-water rafting. It is well-known not just for its natural beauty but also for its plethora of outdoor activities. By winter’s end, the landscape is awash in the vibrant colors of flowering buds between February-March. Tourists can enjoy this scenic beauty from villas like SaffronStays Snowdrop, Raison. The two-bedroom luxury is nestled in the beautiful green slopes of Manali, providing refreshing views of the Himalayas from both bedrooms. Take a break on the grass and enjoy some hot coffee to prepare you for the action-packed day ahead.

Barog, Himachal Pradesh

Tourists and locals flee the sweltering heat of New Delhi and other places in North India for the milder climes of the hill stations, the most prominent of which is Barog, near Shimla. The clouded skies and hill forests provide a welcome reprieve for those looking to get away from the heat. The Kalka-Shimla Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see while you’re in the area. Homes like the SaffronStays Grandview Haven, Barog provide a similar vibe with picturesque views and quality service. A cold wind will greet you as you open your eyes, revealing a stunning Barog valley spectacle set against a backdrop of the hills. Located just 2.5 hours from Shimla Airport, this 3-bedroom drive-in homestay near Shimla serves as a magnet for city slickers in need of a quiet retreat. Every once in a while, you might fantasize about spending some quiet time among the gardens and open lawns, perhaps drinking coffee and finishing that book. End your day with a delicious BBQ and bonfire under the stars.

Bhimtal, Uttarakhand

Bhimtal is a more tranquil and scenic destination in Uttarakhand that is also blessed with clear blue skies and a beautiful lake. Boating, paragliding, trekking and camping, mountain biking, kayaking, and zorbing are all enjoyable options for tourists visiting this area. As you cruise around the lake on your boat, you may find the island in the middle where the famous Bhimtal Aquarium exists. Bhimeshwar Temple, Garg Parvat, Hidimba Parvat, and Victoria Dam are some other major attractions here. You can well enjoy the serenity of this place at villas like SaffronStays Fourest, Bhimtal. The set of 8 pet-friendly cottages are hidden in a verdant, wooded area. The cottages that are constructed entirely out of bamboo, providing you with the quintessential homestay experience amid nature, adding to the rustic appeal of your North India trip.

Naggar, Himachal Pradesh

Perched on an altitude of 1800 metres, Naggar is one of the best tourist places in North India because of its stunning scenery and relaxed atmosphere. Travelers from all over the country flock to the hill station in the summer to escape the city’s scorching heat. The hill station is one of India’s most famous tourist attractions because of its stunning natural features, including snow-capped mountains, lush forests, riverine valleys, and sparkling streams. Its rich cultural heritage with attractions like Roerich Museum (IRMT) and modern amenities make for a lovely contrast that further adds to the town’s appeal. Tourists can truly feel this at cottages like SaffronStays Kesar Villa, Naggar. In addition to the calming, gorgeous surroundings, this 5-bedroom private homestay offers scrumptious local cuisine, a book cafe, strolls through the orchids, and so much more! This is a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with yourself.

Sapotra, Rajasthan

Sapotra, in the district of Karauli, is about 32 kilometers from Karauli’s main town and about 117 kilometers from Jaipur. Popular tourist attractions in one of the unexplored places in North India include the Ranthambore National Park, home to the famous jungle safaris, a tiger reserve, and diverse flora and fauna. You’ll enjoy being here if you’re a fan of the great outdoors and all kinds of different animals. An enormous citadel, Ranthambore Fort, built in the 1st century, can be found amid the rough landscape of this national park. On a hilltop, this World Heritage Site is steeped in the history and mystery of the kings, pilgrims, and warriors who have passed through its doors. You can feel the royalty of the forts in SaffronStays The Fort, which is around four hours outside of Jaipur and boasts a rich 386 years of history and luxury. You’ll get a breathtaking preview of the national park from each of the six bedrooms on the fort’s balconies.

When you think of North India, what comes to mind are visions of fallen kingdoms, spiritual cities steeped in mystery, beautiful mountains, and verdant valleys. And that is what these top 5 unexplored places in North India have to offer to all its visitors. If you are taking a trip to North India, do not forget to add these places to your bucket list.

You can enhance your tour packages for North India by booking the best stays at one of the magnificent SaffronStays private homestays & cottages and getting a chance to experience luxury like never before.