Himachal Pradesh is a state that is known throughout the world for its exquisite natural splendor. People come here, from different corners of the world, to experience nature in its many facets. Where there is sightseeing, shopping is bound to be involved. In fact, you can hardly imagine going back from a vacationing trip, without taking back some souvenirs with you, be it for yourself or your friends and family members. Some of the important shopping hubs in Himachal are as follows:
Shimla - Shopping in Shimla is all about buying the local handicrafts and the main shopping areas in Shimla are along the Mall, the Subzi Mandi, and the Lakkar Bazaar. The Mall road is the place shoppers love to explore, as there are several shops here that offer plethora of choices including woolen products, handicrafts, and handmade artifacts. The Kullu and Kinnauri shawls, mufflers and scarves, Pashmina shawls and the Tibetan carpets are some of the must-buys from Shimla. Apart from shawls, there are Himachali caps, gloves, sweaters and socks, which you may buy from here. Take a trip to the Tibetan Market if you want to buy Tibetan carpets, jewellery that can be purchased from the shops close to the ridge. Apart from this you may also like to buy juices, jams, squashes, pickles and sauces as they are also the best buys here.
Manali - The Mall is the main shopping area in Manali, selling local Kullu and Kinnauri shawls, rugs, caps and footwear, imported goods, besides a range of Tibetan handicraft items. The Tibetan Bazaar and Tibetan Carpet centre run by the refugee community sells thangkas, rugs, local tweeds, Buddhist paintings, bamboo souvenirs, Chinese goods (electronics, shoes, clothes etc), silver and turquoise jewellery and prayers wheels amongst other things. The place is overcrowded with tourists in the summers. If you are interested in buying more hippie and junky stuff, then the Old Manali market is a must visit. The Himachal Handicrafts Emporium and Bhuticco weavers' co-operative in the main Manali Mall are good for local handicrafts. Handcrafted shawls and rugs are the major and the most popular buys here.
Kullu - Shopping in Kullu includes buying Kullu shawls, caps, and gadmas which can be bought from private shops as well as the Himachal state weaving co-operative at Bhutti Weavers colony, six kms south of Kullu. The co-operative runs several retail outlets called Bhuticco at other towns in the valley. The state government handicrafts emporium and Khadi Gramodyog emporium are at Akhara Bazaar.
Dharamsala - Shopping in Dharamsala can be a delightful experience. The main shopping area in Dharamshala is in Mcleodganj, offering range of handicraft items including woollens, carpets, metal ware, Thangkas, and jewellery. The main shopping area in Dharamshala is in Mcleodganj, offering range of handicraft items including woollens, carpets, metal ware, Thangkas and jewellery. Easily available in almost all the shops in Dharamshala, Thangkas are brightly coloured cloth paintings depicting Buddhist culture, fair and festivals. Kangra Style of paintings depicting the court scenes or the love story between Radha and Krishna of the mythological era, are other must-buy items in Dharamshala. Tourists can visit Norbulingka Institute on Khanyara Road to check out the artwork. Silk and woollen woven scarves, embroidered kurtas are also worth including to your shopping list. Don't forget to add Kangra Valley Green Tea as well to the shopping list.
Dalhousie - Shopping in Dalhousie is all about buying a variety of handicrafts, gift items and trinkets to take back home. The Tibetan market, the Himachal Handloom Industry Emporium, Himachal Hand loom and Crafts Centre and Tibetan Handicrafts Centre are the main shopping areas in Dalhousie. The Tibetan market, located at Gandhi Chowk, is an ideal shopping hub in Dalhousie and one of the popular tourist sites offering spectrum of goods including bags, dolls, handicrafts, carpets and purses. Take a trip to Himachal Handloom Industry Emporium on Thandi Sarak if you are interested in traditional Kashmiri shawls. Reflecting the fine craftsmanship of the locals, these handicrafts are unique and exquisite. You may also buy traditional shawls from here.
Chamba - Shopping in Chamba is about shopping for local crafts. The main market surrounds the central Chaugan where you can buy all sorts of interesting things made of stone and metal - buy some of these as they make good memorabilia. You will also be able to pick up miniature paintings of Chamba and Kangra and the popular Chamba chappals too. Besides these if you are looking for woven shawls try the handicrafts Emporium and don't forget to buy a bottle of the chilli pickle which Chamba is known for.
Money - The currency of India is Indian Rupees (INR). The currency exchange departments are present in almost every Indian city. You can also exchange your currency in 5 star and 4 star hotels, no other currency is valid except for Indian currency (INR).
Best time to Visit - Himachal Pradesh is known for its salubrious climate. The weather is perfect in Himachal Pradesh between the months of April to June when it is mild and sunny and is perfect for mountaineering or enjoying an idyllic nature walk.** **
Travel Kit - Woolen clothes, raingear and sunscreen
Language - There are several languages in Himachal Pradesh that are commonly spoken by the people there. Hindi is the official language of the state. Apart from Hindi, people speak different languages including Pahari languages, Punjabi, Kangri, Dogri and Kinnauri.
Drugs - Heavy penalties including imprisonment for possession of narcotic drugs.
Temple Codes - It is advisable to dress conservatively in temples.
Smoking - Smoking is banned in public places.
Festivals and Fairs - Like other states, Himachal Pradesh is also known for celebrating fairs and festivals in the most memorable and impressive way. one of the most memorable and fascinated festivals of Himachal Pradesh are listed below :
• Shivratri Fair at Baijnath (February)
• Shivratri Fair at Mandi (February - March)
• Nalwari Cattle Fair at Bilaspur (March)
• Chessu Fair at Rewalsar (March)
• Holi Fair at Sujanpur Tira (March)
• Summer Festival at Shimla and Dharamshala (May-June)
• Salloni Fair at Solan (June)
• Manimahesh Yatra trek from Bharmaur, Chamba to Mountain Kailash (August - September)