Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Hamirpur is centrally located in Himachal Pradesh, making it a great base for exploring nearby towns, historical sites, temples, and adventure destinations. Whether you’re looking for spiritual retreats, nature getaways, or historical explorations, here are the best nearby places for day trips and weekend getaways.

1. Sujanpur Tira (25 km) – Historic Fort & Temples

✅ Why Visit?

• Explore the Sujanpur Tira Fort, built by Raja Sansar Chand Katoch.
• Visit the Laxmi Narayan Temple & Murli Manohar Temple, known for their Pahari-style paintings.
• Enjoy a riverside picnic along the Beas River.

 Distance from Hamirpur: 25 km (40-minute drive)
 Best Time to Visit: October – April

 Tip: Visit during sunrise for the best views of the fort and town.

2. Nadaun (25 km) – A Riverside Retreat

✅ Why Visit?

• A beautiful town on the banks of the Beas River.
• Visit Nadaun Fort, once a part of Kangra’s royal kingdom.
• Boating & fishing along the river for a relaxing experience.

 Distance from Hamirpur: 25 km (45-minute drive)
 Best Time to Visit: September – April

 Tip: Try local street food at Nadaun Bazaar.

3. Baba Balak Nath Temple (45 km) – A Major Pilgrimage Site

✅ Why Visit?

• One of the most famous temples in Himachal Pradesh, dedicated to Baba Balak Nath Ji.
• Located on a hilltop, offering serene views of the valley.
• A major Hindu pilgrimage site, especially during Chaitra Mela (March-April).

 Distance from Hamirpur: 45 km (1.5-hour drive)
 Best Time to Visit: March – June

 Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as reaching the temple involves a short trek.

4. Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj (90 km) – Tibetan Culture & Monasteries

✅ Why Visit?

• Home to the Dalai Lama and the famous Namgyal Monastery.
• Visit Bhagsu Waterfall, Dal Lake, and St. John in the Wilderness Church.
• Enjoy Tibetan markets, cafes, and spiritual retreats.

 Distance from Hamirpur: 90 km (2.5-hour drive)
 Best Time to Visit: Year-round

 Tip: Try authentic Tibetan food at McLeod Ganj’s cafés.

5. Awah Devi Temple (24 km) – A Spiritual & Scenic Spot

✅ Why Visit?

• A famous Shakti Peetha, dedicated to Goddess Kali.
• Offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges.
• A perfect trekking and meditation spot.

 Distance from Hamirpur: 24 km (50-minute drive)
 Best Time to Visit: October – March

 Tip: Visit early morning for peaceful temple prayers & sunrise views.

6. Bilaspur (70 km) – The Land of Lakes

✅ Why Visit?

• Visit Gobind Sagar Lake, created by the Bhakra Dam – perfect for boating & water sports.
• Explore Bhakra Dam, India’s largest gravity dam.
• Visit Markandeya Temple, a sacred Shiva shrine.

 Distance from Hamirpur: 70 km (2-hour drive)
 Best Time to Visit: October – March

 Tip: Try fresh fish dishes near Gobind Sagar Lake.

7. Kangra Fort (85 km) – One of India’s Oldest Forts

✅ Why Visit?

• One of India’s oldest forts, with a rich history of battles.
• Offers stunning views of the Kangra Valley.
• Visit the Kangra Museum, showcasing ancient artifacts.

 Distance from Hamirpur: 85 km (2.5-hour drive)
 Best Time to Visit: October – March

 Tip: Take a guided tour to learn about the fort’s history.

8. Gobind Sagar Lake (55 km) – Boating & Fishing Paradise

✅ Why Visit?

• A massive man-made lake, ideal for boating, kayaking, and fishing.
• A great place for birdwatching and photography.
• Less crowded, making it a peaceful retreat.

 Distance from Hamirpur: 55 km (1.5-hour drive)
 Best Time to Visit: September – March

 Tip: Rent a shikara or paddle boat for a relaxing experience.

9. Mandi (80 km) – The Varanasi of the Hills

✅ Why Visit?

• Known for ancient temples, including Bhootnath Temple & Tarna Devi Temple.
• The Beas River flows through the town, offering a scenic backdrop.
• Explore the local markets for Himachali woolens & Kangra paintings.

 Distance from Hamirpur: 80 km (2-hour drive)
 Best Time to Visit: Year-round

 Tip: Visit during Maha Shivratri Festival for a cultural experience.

10. Chail (100 km) – A Serene Hill Station

✅ Why Visit?

• Visit Chail Palace, Kali Ka Tibba, and the world’s highest cricket ground.
• A less crowded alternative to Shimla, offering peaceful nature walks.
• Enjoy trekking, picnics, and local Himachali food.

 Distance from Hamirpur: 100 km (3-hour drive)
 Best Time to Visit: March – June, September – November

 Tip: Stay in the Chail Palace for a royal experience.

 Best Day Trips from Hamirpur

• Short Day Trips (Within 30 km): Sujanpur Tira, Nadaun, Awah Devi Temple.
• Mid-Distance Trips (30 – 80 km): Bilaspur, Baba Balak Nath Temple, Gobind Sagar Lake, Kangra Fort.
• Long Day Trips (80+ km): Dharamshala, Mandi, Chail.

 Travel Tips for Day Trips from Hamirpur

✅ Start early – Some destinations take 2-3 hours to reach.
✅ Carry warm clothes – Even in summer, higher altitudes get cold.
✅ Book activities in advance – Especially for paragliding, boating, and temple visits.
✅ Try local food – Enjoy Siddu, Kangra tea, and Tibetan momos at local eateries.

Hamirpur is the perfect base for exploring nearby lakes, adventure spots, and cultural heritage sites. Whether you're into history, boating, trekking, or simply relaxing in nature, these day trips offer something for everyone!

 Pack your bags and start exploring the beauty of Himachal Pradesh from Hamirpur!