Places to visit in Palampur
The tea capital of north India, a green, quiet town under the Dhauladhar's highest peaks.
Palampur grew up around tea planted by the British in the 1840s, and the estates still cover the slopes around town. It is calmer than Dharamshala and has a lovely mix of tea gardens, old bungalows and pine forest.
It also makes a good base for Bir (35 km), Baijnath (16 km) and the Andretta artists' village (13 km).
Things to do in Palampur
- Tea estate walk: Wah Tea Estate and the cooperative tea factory are popular.
- Neugal Khad: Gorge with a café and views of the range.
- Saurabh Van Vihar: Forest park by the Neugal stream.
- Andretta: Pottery studio and Sobha Singh Art Gallery.
- Bundla waterfall: Short walk from town, best after the rains.
How to reach Palampur
Gaggal Airport (40 km). Pathankot station (115 km). The toy train stops at Maranda, just outside town.
Best time to visit Palampur
March to June for tea plucking and clear skies, and September to November for the best views.
Where to stay
Tea-estate bungalows and heritage homes are the most memorable. There are town hotels near the bus stand.
Palampur: questions
What is Palampur famous for?
Kangra tea, views of the Dhauladhar, the agricultural university, and nearby Andretta and Baijnath.
Is Palampur better than Dharamshala?
Different. Palampur is quieter and greener, while Dharamshala and McLeodganj have more to do. Many people do both.
Nearby
See it with a local
Himachal Honeymoon
Kangra → McLeodganj → Palampur → Bir → Manali → Sissu
Plan your Palampur trip
Tell us your dates. We will suggest how many days, where to stay and how to get around.