Himachal Pradesh is a much sought-after tourist destination for both Indian and foreign travellers who both go solo or in groups with friends or family. There is another group of people for whom Himachal Pradesh is a dream holiday destination. They are the couples who visit Himachal Pradesh as part of their honeymoon package or as a romantic getaway to soak in some fun and adventure. The snow-capped mountains, the chill weather, the mesmerising scenery and the amazing sight-seeing places in Himachal Pradesh make it a great romantic destination for couples who, sometimes, keep visiting the state to relive their memories. In Himachal Pradesh, Shimla and Manali are considered to be the couple’s go-to holiday destinations because of the numerous romantic sight-seeing places, and adventure activities it presents to them. So, here are the top five romantic places for couples in Shimla and Manali.
Chail, Shimla
Chail should be a part of your Shimla Manali Honeymoon Package. It is part of the Golden Triangle of Himachal Pradesh along with Kufri and Shimla. Chail’s natural beauty makes it stand out among other hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. Located about 60 kms from Shimla, Chail offers beautiful views of Shivalik tops, scenic natural landscape, lush greenery, large cover of pine and deodar trees, and a perfect getaway for a romantic escapade. Chail could help you unwind with your partner in its relaxed and calm environment. You can indulge in trekking, rock climbing or camping in the trails of Gaura & Jhajjar. You can visit the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary and see the various species of birds and animals here. Other must-visit places with your partner in Chail include Maharaja’s Palace, Kali Ka Tibba – a temple dedicated to Goddess Kali atop a hill, and Himalayan Nature Park.
Naldehra, Shimla
Naldehra is a tiny hill station, about 20 kms from Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh. It was discovered by Lord Curzon who built an 18-hole golf course, which is a major tourist attraction now. Lord Curzon was so impressed with the beauty of Naldehra that he named one of his daughters as Alexandra Naldehra after it. Well, Naldehra is indeed beautiful, and is extremely popular among couples who want to spend some alone time in this hill station. A major attraction of Naldehra is the Shaily Peak that gives a majestic view of this hill station from the top of the mountain. The trail is 8 kms but slightly steep, and hence, you need to be at your good fitness level to ascend it. So, for those adventure-seeking romantic couples, ascending the Shaily Peak in Naldehra and spending some quality time at the top amidst the beauty would just be the perfect romantic getaway for them.
Kufri, Shimla
Honeymooners or couples looking for a dream holiday can visit the hill station Kufri, which is about 20 kms from Shimla. The tall rising Himalayan ranges in the background, the beautiful landscape, and the pleasant and chill weather would make couples cuddle in each other’s arms and soak in the beauty of this town. You can visit the Himalayan National Park, which houses various species of animals and birds. For adventure-seeking couples, Kufri offers various activities such as hiking, skiing, and tobogganing. Another must-visit place in Kufri is Kufri Fun World, an amusement park, which houses a go-karting track that allows you to indulge in this sport with the great Himalayan peaks in the background. You can also undertake a donkey or mule ride to the Mahasu, which is considered to be the tallest peak here. The winter months could see Kufri covered in snow, and hence, it presents an ideal opportunity for couples to indulge in some snow-throwing fun.
Jogini Falls, Manali
There is nothing more soothing than relaxing under the cold water of a fall, and if your partner is with you, it would make for a perfect romantic moment together. The Jogini Falls in Manali is where you should be headed to indulge in some fun with water in the company of your partner. The waterfall is located about 8 kms from the Manali Bus Stand. But you need to start the short trek to Jogini Falls from the Vashisht Temple. The trail will take you through apple orchards and pine trees among the valleys, and would be a refreshing break away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Once you reach the base of the fall, you can take a dip with your partner in the pool surrounding the waterfall. This could be the best romantic trek you could spend with your partner and must include it in your honeymoon packages of Shimla Manali.
Van Vihar, Manali
Van Vihar is located at the heart of Manali, less than a km from the main bus stand, and near to the famous Mall Road. It is a municipal garden that is full of deodar trees. So, if you and your partner just love to hang out in nature, and spend some quality time just talking and listening to each other, then Van Vihar is tailormade place for you that you can review. There is also a picturesque artificial lake located inside Van Vihar that offers travellers to indulge in boating and relax and unwind in nature. A stroll with your partner in the Van Vihar in the evening with the sun setting in the horizon could just be the perfect romantic moment you could share with him or her.
Timings: During summer, it is open from 8am to 7pm, and 8am to 5pm in the winter on all days.
Entry fee: It is Rs 5 per person, while the boating charge is Rs 30 per person for 15 minutes.
