Palampur is a beautiful hill station located in Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh, about 35 km from Dharamsala. It gets its its name from pulum meaning ‘abundant water’. Unsurprisingly, the region has innumerable streams and brooks and the water bodies are a huge boon for the tea plantations. The Palampur Tea Cooperative factory, some 1.5 km south of the bus station on the Kangra road, offers a 20-minute tour taking you through the tea making process, is a major attraction here.
In addition to its tea plantations, Palampur also offers tourists a chance to practice some adventure sports, serving as the starting point for several treks including to Dharamsala and Kangra. The famous Baijnath-Manali trek passes through the town. Summers (between May and October) is the best time to trek in Palampur.
Situated 35 km from Palampur, Bir is a popular center for paragliding activities and along with Billing, that serves as the landing spot, is referred to as the ‘Paragliding capital of India’.
After being established by Dr Jameson, who introduced tea plantations in the hill station, the tea produced in the town of Palampur gained international recognition and is a must buy for tourists along with the Tibetan handicrafts, carpets, and wooden handicrafts made here. And while you’re shopping, do not forget to try out Jhol, a popular local drink made of rice water.
Home to some of the tallest deodar trees in the country, Palampur is the perfect summer getaway offering stunning views of the snow clad Dhauladhar ranges.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN PALAMPUR
Most budget hotels and cottages are situated in Chandpur tea estate while the mid-range resorts are located in Neugal Khad. The town also has many privately-owned guesthouses which offer budget stay or you can choose to stay in heritage hotels that provides luxury accommodation.
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN PALAMPUR
The Chinese delicacies served in the innumerable small restaurants around the town are extremely popular. Most of the restaurants also serve Indian and Continental cuisine and the street stalls serve delicious parathas, pakoras and chaat. Hotels with restaurants attached to them also serve multi-cuisine delicacies.
Don’t forget to try the bamboo pickle a delicious local delicacy.
BEST TIME TO VISIT PALAMPUR
The average minimum and maximum temperature of Palampur is as given below. The best time to visit Palampur is also specified.
