Himachal Pradesh

Best time to visit Himachal Pradesh

May–Jun & early Sep–Oct  is perfect for trekking, mountaineering expedition and other activities. Only monsoons are to be avoided for outdoor activities.

Mid-Jul–early Sep The monsoon: Visit Lahaul and Spiti, which stays dry.

Nov–Apr Good for snow-lovers, but the high passes to Lahaul and Spiti are blocked.

Check the following before leaving home

Comprehensive travel insurance to cover theft, loss and medical problems is highly recommended.

Some policies specifically exclude dangerous activities such as scuba diving, motorcycling, skiing and even trekking: read the fine print.

Check that the policy covers ambulances or an emergency flight home.

Find out in advance if your insurance policy/plan will make payments directly to providers or reimburse you later for domestic or overseas health expenditures.

Take permissions in advance 

Some buildings and monument like Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla; Chail Palace may require special permissions for photography or filming. Seek help from district administration & Tourism office to visit such places.

Best way to enjoy adventure sports and activities is with experts and adventure activity companies but if you intend to take adventure activities on your own then you are advised to inform local authorities such as SDM, Police, & Tourist office; and seek necessary permissions. You may need to present your id proofs to seek permissions. Call your travel agent in case you need any help related to getting permissions or choose an agent that provides all proactively.

List of  important phone numbers

Police : 100

Ambulance : 102

District Control Room : 1077

Emergency Contact Number : 108

[Integrated Police/ Fire Station/ Medical Services]

Tourist Information Office (Shimla) : 0177-2658302, 0177-2652561

Tourism Information Office (Manali) : 01902-253531

Tourism Information Office (Kullu) : 01902-222349

Tourism Information Office (Dharamshala) : 01892-224212

Tourism Information Office (Dalhousie) : 01899-242136