1. Chamunda Devi Temple: Visit one of the most popular family-friendly tourist place
Chamunda Devi Temple near Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, dating back to the 16th century. Seek blessings with your family at this revered spot dedicated to Goddess Chamunda, a fierce form of Goddess Kali. This sacred site, ideal for a family outing, is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and is known for its spiritual significance as well as traditional Himachali architecture.
Walk through the temple complex with your loved ones and witness idols of Chamunda Devi, Lord Bhairava, and Hanuman, with the main deity adorned in serpents, skulls, and scorpions. You can also explore a marble staircase leading to a Shiva cave where a Lingam is worshipped. Delve into its historical importance and legend with your family, which states that there was divine intervention in locating the idol.
2. Kangra Art Museum: This is among the most popular places to visit near Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, especially if you wish to appreciate the cultural richness of the region with your family. Head to Kotwali Bazaar with your loved ones and enter this renowned building where you can discover the rich artistic heritage of the Kangra Valley through a stunning collection that includes miniature paintings dating back to the 5th century. Marvel at pottery, sculptures, royal dresses, and historical artifacts like coins and manuscripts with your family.
The Kangra Art museum also features contemporary artworks and a well-stocked library, making it an educational family outing. Explore Kangra School paintings, Chamba embroideries, and artifacts that will remind you and your family of historical events like the 1905 earthquake and the resilience of the state.
3. Tatwani Hot Springs: Explore this natural marvel, perfect for a family visit, formed 40 million years ago during the rise of the Himalayas from the ancient Tethys sea. This is among the best places to visit near Kangra due to its remote and serene locale, ideal for a peaceful family retreat.
Learn that this hidden gem had remained undiscovered until recent times and is only frequented by locals for its reputed medicinal benefits. Set foot with your family in the small temple and bathing enclosure surrounded by lush evergreen forests and the tranquil Gaj rivulet. Enjoy the spiritual tranquility and healing properties with your loved ones due to its sulfur-enriched waters.
4. Kareri Lake: Delight in this stunning destination Kareri Lake near the Dhauladhar range, also known as Kumarwah Lake, with your family. Located northwest of Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh, this is a peaceful retreat if you are looking for the most serene places to visit near Kangra. Hike up with your family to an altitude of 2,934 meters and be captivated by its picturesque beauty, surrounded by dense conifer forests and vibrant perennial flowers.
Witness the lake's pristine waters fed by snowmelt from the Dhauladhar range flowing out as the Nyund stream. If your family enjoys trekking, this is the ideal spot due to its high water visibility and shallow depth, offering a memorable experience away from the crowds.
5. Jwala Devi Temple: Explore the top tourist places near Kangra and visit the Jwala Devi Temple with your family, revering Jwala Ji. Learn together about the legend behind the temple, which states that this was the spot where the Goddess Sati's tongue had fallen, marking it as one of the 52 Shakti Peethas in India.
Witness how this temple houses eternal flames symbolizing the nine forms of Goddess Durga, burning incessantly without external fuel. Be a part of the temple's daily aartis with your family, accompanied by offerings like Rabri. Head to the adjacent Jwalamukhi Cave with your loved ones, now with a single opening and filled with spring water, for a tranquil retreat.
