Places to Visit in Palampur

Nestled amidst the serene hills of Himachal Pradesh, the Shakti Peeth Shri Chamunda Devi Temple stands as a beacon of spirituality and devotion. This ancient temple, dedicated to Goddess Chamunda, a fierce form of the Divine Mother, is a revered pilgrimage site that attracts thousands of devotees and tourists each year.

The temple's location on a hilltop provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, adding to the sense of tranquility and divine presence that envelops the area. As you approach the temple, the peaceful ambiance and the scent of incense create a sense of calm that prepares you for a spiritual experience.

The Shri Chamunda Devi Temple is part of the Shakti Peeths, a network of sacred shrines dedicated to the divine feminine energy. According to legend, the temple is built on a site where the goddess's feet fell, making it a place of immense spiritual significance. The deity, depicted as a fierce yet benevolent form of the goddess, symbolizes power and protection. Worshippers believe that seeking her blessings can bring strength, wisdom, and prosperity into their lives.

The list of places to visit in Palampur would be incomplete without the mention of the humble Andretta Pottery. A quaint little property in the heart of the village, the place is a bit lost in its surroundings and easy to miss. But art lovers and pottery enthusiasts throng to the place alike for its humble appearances. 

Offering services ranging from the terracotta museum, hands-on pottery making for tourists, and a pottery shop – you will find yourself wondering where the time went at Andretta.

3-4 kilometers from Palampur is the Neugal Khad – a wide stream of water popular among tourists for family picnics and day outings. The site also features a beautiful black iron bridge. Set against the high mountains of Dhauladhar, the Neugal Khad along with the bridge is ideal for photography enthusiasts to click Instagram worthy pictures. 

Close to the steam is the Neugal Park featuring little eateries and quaint cafes where you can sit outside and enjoy snacks while taking in the majestic views around you.

Nestled amidst the scenic Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh, the Tea Gardens of Palampur offer a tranquil escape into nature's lap, where lush greenery and fresh mountain air rejuvenate the senses. Spread across acres of undulating slopes, these tea estates present a picturesque landscape that captivates visitors with its beauty and serenity.

The Tea Gardens of Palampur are renowned for producing high-quality Kangra tea, celebrated for its delicate flavor and aroma. As you stroll through the neatly manicured rows of tea bushes, you'll witness the meticulous process of tea cultivation, from plucking the tender leaves to their expert processing in nearby factories. Visitors can also engage in tea-tasting sessions to savor the distinct flavors of Kangra tea and learn about its rich heritage.

Perched at the highest point of Chandanpur in Kangra, the climb to this exotic temple may be arduous and physically demanding, but the view at the top makes it extremely worth the sweat. The vantage point offers spectacular views of the Dhauladhar mountain range, the gorgeous valley of Kangra and the quaint little hamlets sprinkled all over the district.

The temple has cultural and religious values among the Hindu community and is an ideal tourist destination for families exploring Himachal.

Located just 15 kilometers away from the district, Tashi Jong Monastery is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Palampur. The building sits against lush green hills and no matter what way you look, the Himalayan mountains disappearing into the clouds will leave you breathless. 

The monastery itself is a sight to behold – decorated with wooden carvings, paintings, and Buddha statues. For the shoppers in you, the temple also features a craft emporium where you can buy beautiful Tibetan handicrafts.

An important cultural heritage site for Tibetans, the Norbulingka Institute is dedicated to passing on the Tibetan culture and historical importance to the future generations. Experience seekers and curious souls will be at home here – every corner of the institute is replete with unique stories and adventures. 

Witness the stories of the employees to gain a perspective on Tibetan culture, buy beautiful clothes and home accessories made with Tibetan art styles or participate in one of the workshops to get a more hands-on approach.

Spend a memorable half an hour at this property housing intriguing original artwork of the famous artist Sobha Singh. The displayed artwork includes beautiful paintings, sculptures, and canvases. For the true fans, the gallery provides access to his studio too. 

Besides, you can admire artifacts and photographs related to the legendary artist and shop for souvenirs like mugs and books at the handicraft shop located on the premises. The gallery holds a special place in the hearts of the Punjabi community for its artistic and cultural value.

Named after an Indian army officer, the Van Vihar is one of the most popular tourist places to visit in Palampur. An ideal spot for the nature lover in you, Van Vihar offers gorgeous views of the magnificent, snow-capped Dhauladhar mountain range. 

An overall great place to holiday with your family, the park features lush gardens for taking a leisurely stroll in the pollution free environs. Moreover, there is a small lake and you can go boating there!

Featuring a collection of European artworks, the Naam Art Gallery is one of the most interesting places to visit in Palampur. The gallery showcases paintings from a number of legendary artists and a variety of painting forms ranging from watercolors to acrylics. 

A captivating place for art lovers, the gallery is also popular among photography enthusiasts for its gorgeous interiors and bewitching contemporary art pieces. Some of the paintings are also focused on Himachal lifestyle and culture.