Are you looking for a perfect destination in Himachal Pradesh to celebrate the New Year 2024 with your loved ones? Do you want to make this occasion memorable and exciting? Don’t worry.
There are so many best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh for New Year that you will be spoilt for choice. You can enjoy the fireworks in Manali, the green valleys of Churah Valley, and the spiritual vibes of Dharamsala among many others.
In this blog post, we will introduce you to ten of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh for the new year and what they have to offer.
Best Places in Himachal Pradesh to Celebrate the New Year 2024
Here are the top places to visit for the new year in Himachal Pradesh;
1. Shimla
Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh.
It is the best place to celebrate New Year in the state. Shimla offers a breathtaking backdrop of snow-capped mountains, lush green forests, and picturesque valleys.
On New Year’s Eve, Shimla comes alive with a festive atmosphere. The main shopping street (The Mall) is decorated with lights and streamers, with special events and parties all over the city. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as live music, dancing, and bonfires.
One of the most popular ways to celebrate New Year in Shimla is to take a ride on the Kalka-Shimla Railway. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a narrow-gauge railway that winds its way up the mountains, offering stunning views along the way.
No matter how you choose to celebrate, Shimla is just magical. It is sure to offer an unforgettable New Year’s Eve in Himachal Pradesh.
2. Manali
Manali is located in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh. It is about 270 km from Shimla. Whether you prefer lavish parties or a more laid-back new year experience, Manali will deliver.
Manali hosts a variety of New Year’s parties, from lavish events at luxury hotels to laid-back gatherings at cafes and restaurants.
Manali is also surrounded by the Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, and the Kullu Valley. You’ll find celebration and an invitation to embrace renewal and hope as the clock strikes twelve. When midnight arrives, the sky above Manali erupts into a kaleidoscope of fireworks.
Manali’s Beas River winds through ancient forests, harmonizing with the festive mood. It is a place to capture once-in-a-lifetime new year memories.
Choose a seasoned tour operator and ask them to take you to the old wooden Manali temples, where you can seek best wishes for the year ahead.
3. Dharamsala
Dharamshala is a popular town in Himachal Pradesh that will give you a unique and unforgettable New Year’s experience. The majestic Dhauladhar range stands guard over the town, inviting you to celebrate and take photos with stunning backgrounds.
Consider D’Polo Club and Spa Resort for a memorable stay at Dharamsala. It is a premium destination resort. Their New Year celebrations offer magical nights filled with late-night bonfires, breathtaking views of snow, and a host of other festivities.
The resort’s package includes accommodation in a well-appointed room, a lavish buffet dinner, unlimited snacks and beverages, and access to all of the resort’s amenities.
Exploring Dharamshala’s many attractions, such as the Dalai Lama Temple and the Bhagsunag Waterfall, will surely add flavor to your new year celebrations.
Tips for traveling to Dharamsala for new year
- It is peak season, so book your New Year’s Eve package in advance.
Pack warm clothes. - Bring comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking and dancing.
- Bring your camera to capture all the magical moments.
4. Churah Valley
As the year draws to a close, Churah Valley transforms into a magical wonderland for New Year celebrations. It is the best place to celebrate New Year in the state, and here is why.
First, Churah Valley is untouched by commercialization and offers a serene and tranquil setting to welcome the new year.Secondly, the valley is blessed with stunning scenery. It features snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers.
Churah Valley is home to a rich culture and heritage. People here celebrate the new year with great enthusiasm. The celebrations are accompanied with traditional dances, music, and food.
Picture yourself trekking to a remote glacier lake and watching the sunrise on New Year’s Day. Experience the thrill of camping under the stars and enjoying a bonfire with friends.
5. Prini
Prini is a hidden gem situated in the snowy Himalayan foothills of Himachal Pradesh. It is 3 hours from Manali and 4 hours from Shimla. The best way to get here is by taxi or bus.
Check into the luxurious Ashapuri Village and wake up to breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The resort’s manicured lawns and cozy rooms sets the mood for your New Year’s retreat.
For a budget-friendly stay, consider Hotel Prini Inn. It’s comfortable, strategically located, and offers a warm welcome. You can spend around ₨2,342 ($28) per day on a vacation in Prini.
Prini is the best place to celebrate New Year due to its stunning natural beauty. It is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls.
It is also home to the Tibetan monasteries, Buddhist temples, and traditional Himachali villages. It offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and needs. You can choose from traditional guesthouses, budget-friendly hotels, and luxury resorts.
Here are some hotels to celebrate the new year in Prini
- Hotel Deodar
- Hotel Pinewood
- Hotel Snowcrest
6. Mcleodganj
Mcleodganj is in the Dhauladhar mountain range of Himachal Pradesh. There’s no better place to ring in the new year than this vibrant hill station.
McLeod Ganj offers breathtaking scenery that’s sure to make your New Year’s Eve unforgettable. It is known for its lively New Year parties. From rooftop bashes to traditional Tibetan celebrations, there’s a party to suit every taste and budget.
McLeod Ganj is home to a diverse population. It hosts Tibetans, Indians, and people from all over the world. These cultures create a vibrant festive atmosphere during New Year’s Eve. It also offers you the opportunity to learn about the various cultures during your vacation.
Go trekking in the Himalayas, paragliding over the valleys, or camping under the stars.
Get a taste of McLeod Ganj at the following hotels:
Illiterati Café:
It has a Bohemian charm. The Café transforms into a lively party destination on New Year’s Eve, with live bands and DJs on the groove.
Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen and Bar:
Jimmy’s rooftop bar offers panoramic mountain views. Also experience the delectable Italian cuisine and signature cocktails.
Carpe Diem:
This is an open-air nightclub. Carpe Diem promises non-stop entertainment with neon-lit dance floors and energetic beats.
7. Naggar
Welcome to Naggar—the best place in Himachal Pradesh to welcome the New Year. Naggar is a quaint little town located 20 kilometers short of Manali.
Imagine waking up in a heritage castle, where traditional Himalayan and European architecture blend seamlessly. The Naggar Castle, once the residence of Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu, now stands as a charming heritage hotel.
Step outside, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by pristine beauty. Naggar’s folk art museum beckons with its captivating exhibits.
And don’t miss the hot water spring—it is a soothing retreat for the body and soul. The air is crisp and the snow blankets everything in sight. Gather around a bonfire with fellow travelers and share stories under the star-studded sky.
The cost of staying in Naggar for the new year varies depending on the hotel or resort you choose. However, you can expect to pay around INR 10,000 per night for a double room.
The best hotels in Naggar for the New Year?
- The Himalayan Village Resort.
- Soham’s Chateau De Naggar.
- The Naggar Castle.
8. Parvati Valley
Parvati Valley in Himachal Pradesh is the ultimate destination for ringing in the New Year. It offers a vibrant party culture, stunning natural beauty, and a laid-back atmosphere.
The valley is home to towering mountains, lush forests, and sparkling rivers. You can spend your new year trekking, exploring the countryside, or relaxing in the peace and quiet of nature.
Some of the most popular New Year’s Eve events in Parvati Valley include:
Kasol Music Festival:
This multi-day festival features live music, food stalls, DJ tracks, and fireworks. It’s one of the most popular New Year’s Eve events in the valley.
Parvati Yatraaa:
This event at Cafe 9 Chhalal in Kasol offers a mix of feet-tapping music and peaceful hubs to relax in.
Bonfires on the banks of the Parvati River:
Most cafes and restaurants here host bonfires on New Year’s Eve. You’ll also enjoy delicious meals, drinks, and fireworks.
9. Charang Ghati Pass
Charang Ghati Pass is the second best place in Himachal Pradesh to celebrate New Year. It is a high-altitude pass located in the Kinnaur district.
However, the weather at Charang Ghati Pass is perfect during this time of year. The days are sunny and clear, and the nights are cold and starry.
Charang Ghati Pass is relatively quiet and secluded, so you can enjoy a peaceful and intimate celebration with your loved ones. Relax in the beautiful scenery and reflect on the past year and the year ahead. You can also spend your new year trekking, skiing, and snowboarding.
It is home to a number of small villages, where you can experience the traditional Himachali culture. Spend your new year at the temples and enjoy the delicious Himachali cuisine.
10. Chindi
Chindi, a beautiful hill station in Himachal Pradesh. It is the best place to celebrate New Year in the state. It is also marked with snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and pristine lakes.
Chindi offers a picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Imagine gathering around a bonfire under a star-studded sky, surrounded by friends and locals.
Chindi’s warm-hearted locals welcome visitors with open arms. Experience their rich culture, indulge in traditional Himachali cuisine, and participate in age-old customs.
It transforms into a white winterland in December, offering a memorable start to 365 fresh days.
FAQs About New Year In Himachal Pradesh
Where is the best place to celebrate New Year in Himachal Pradesh?
The best places to celebrate New Year in Himachal Pradesh depends on your likes and preferences. Whether you prefer a nightlife, or a quiet getaway, everyone will find somewhere to celebrate the new year in Dharamsala, Shimla, Manali, and Naggar.
Which is the coldest place in Himachal Pradesh in December?
The coldest place in Himachal Pradesh in December is Spiti Valley. It is a high-altitude cold desert mountain region with temperatures that can drop below -20 degrees Celsius at night.
Best place for new year in himachal pradesh in winter?
Manali is a great place to celebrate New Year if you are looking for a winter wonderland experience. There are many New Year’s Eve parties organized in Manali, from small gatherings to big events at hotels and nightclubs.
This content has been written by Jaspreet Singh. For additional information about him, you can follow him on Instagram and X.
