15 Best Places To Visit Near Paonta Sahib: From Scenic Hill Stations To Historic Sites

Paonta Sahib Gurudwara is one of the most revered sites for Sikhs that is worth exploring

Paonta Sahib is a holy town that seamlessly blends spiritual significance with natural beauty. Historical evidence suggests that this is the birthplace of Sikh literature. However, what happens once you finish exploring all the tourist attractions here? Well, this is where you need to be aware of the places to visit near Paonta Sahib. To be fair, there are quite a few districts and towns in Himachal Pradesh that are worth exploring. The next time you are planning a trip to Paonta Sahib, ensure to add these additional spots to your itinerary to make the most out of your time.

Top 15 Places To Visit Near Paonta Sahib

The places to visit near Paonta Sahib are rich with diverse destinations that cater to nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and spiritual seekers.

1. Haridwar

Haridwar is one of the most sacred spots near Paonta Sahib that is filled with ghats

Photo: Rahul Mishra / Unsplash

Haridwar, situated on the banks of the Ganges River, is a significant pilgrimage destination known for its ghats and temples. One of the most spectacular sights in the city is the Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri, which draws in thousands of devotees and tourists alike. What further adds to the spiritual ambience of the place is the variety of temples including Mansa Devi Temple and Chandi Devi Temple, both located at an elevation, offering views of the surrounding town. You can take a dip in the holy water of the Ganga or indulge in self-healing and self-care through yoga meditation retreats and ayurvedic treatments.

Distance From Paonta Sahib: 109 Km
Major Attractions: Har Ki Pauri, Ganga Aarti, Mansa Devi Temple, Chandi Devi Temple

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit Near Haridwar

2. Solan

Solan is known for its mushroom cultivation and local scenic landscapes and surroundings

Photo: Romeio Paul / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Solan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh that’s known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. It is known as the “Mushroom City of India,” due to the extensive mushroom cultivation. One of the main attractions of Solan is the Solan Brewery, which is one of Asia’s oldest breweries. You can opt for guided tours and tastings, providing insights into the brewing process and the history of beer-making. The Jatoli Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is another one of the primary attractions in the town. Also, the Shoolini Mata Temple is renowned for its serene setting and religious significance.

Distance From Paonta Sahib: 126 Km
Major Attractions: Solan Brewery, Jatoli Temple, and Shoolini Mata Temple

3. Chail

Visit one of the places to visit near Paonta Sahib, Chail, which is known for its wildlife

Photo: Shubhankar Sakalkale / Wikimedia Commons

Another one of the best places to go near Paonta Sahib is Chail, which is a popular hill station with a lot of historical significance. One of the best attractions here is the Chail Palace, which is a majestic building constructed by the Maharaja of Patiala. For wildlife enthusiasts, you can head to Chail Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to sambar, goral and cheer pheasants. You can also explore various nature and trekking trails through the sanctuary. The combination of nature and the historical sites make Chail a balanced travel spot to visit from Paonta Sahib.

Distance From Paonta Sahib: 165 Km
Major Attractions: Chail Palace and Chail Wildlife Sanctuary

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Chail On Your Next Himachal Pradesh Trip

4. Kalka

Enjoy a ride on the Kalka-Simla Railway that will take you to attractive viewpoints

Photo: AHEMSLTD / Wikimedia Commons

Kalka town in Himachal Pradesh is popular for being a gateway to some of the most popular hill stations like Shimla and Kasauli. One of the main attractions in this town is the Kalka-Shimla Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 4–5-hour train ride takes you through multiple tunnels with scenic views of the dense forests and rolling hills. It features a narrow-gauge railway track that dates back to the 19th century and is one of the most astounding engineering marvels of that time. In addition to the railway, Kalka boasts several ancient temples that reflect the region’s cultural heritage.

Distance From Paonta Sahib: 125 Km
Major Attractions: Kalka-Shimla Railway, ancient temples, and local markets

5. Kasauli

Kasauli is one of the tourist attractions near Paonta Sahib as it has several charming buildings

Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons

Among the good places to visit near Paonta Sahib, Kasauli is a spot you wouldn’t regret visiting. The main attraction of Kasauli lies in its colonial-era charm, which is evident in a few of the tourist attractions there. The town is adorned with charming British-era buildings, including the Kasauli Brewery, which offers tours and tastings of its locally brewed beer. You can also visit The Christ Church, located near the Ridge featuring stained glass windows, which adds to the historical appeal of the place too. You can also visit viewpoints like Sunset Point and Monkey Point to witness panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Distance From Paonta Sahib: 129 Km
Major Attractions: Kasauli Brewery, Christ Church, Sunset Point, and Monkey Point

Suggested Read: Explore The Top Places To Visit Near Kasauli

6. Chamba

Hidimba Lake in Chamba is one of the places to visit near Paonta Sahib, Himachal Pradesh

Photo: Mountain Girl / Unsplash

Chamba in Uttarakhand is one of the top spots that is home to several ancient temples. This includes the Lakshmi Narayan Temple and Chamunda Devi Temple, both of which are primary spiritual and religious spots, attracting devotees from across the country. There are a plethora of lakes around Chamba including Chamera Lake and Manimahesh Lake, that are worth visiting as well. You can also plan a day trip to Chaugan to view and discover the local handicrafts and pick up paintings and souvenirs to take back home.

Distance From Paonta Sahib: Approximately 138 km
Major Attractions: Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Chamunda Devi Temple, Chamba Palace, Chamera lake, Manimahesh lake

7. Shimla

Visit the hill station Shimla, one of the gorgeous places to see near Paonta Sahib

Photo: Aasiflone.123. / Wikimedia Commons

Shimla is a renowned hill station known for its colonial architecture, scenic beauty and a variety of sightseeing spots. The Ridge, a large open space in the heart of the city, offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for leisurely walks and cultural events. Another bustling spot to visit is Mall Road which is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Historical sites such as the Viceregal Lodge, which once served as the summer residence of British viceroys, and the Christ Church, known for its Gothic architecture, add to Shimla’s charm as well.

Distance From Paonta Sahib: 171 Km
Major Attractions: The Ridge, Mall Road, Viceregal Lodge, and Christ Church

Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit Near Shimla

8. Devprayag

Visit the suspension bridges in Devprayag to enjoy the views of the surrounding valleys

Photo: Rishu Bhosale / Unsplash

Considered one of the most scenic yet underrated spots in Uttarakhand, Devprayag is around 150 Km from Paonta Sahib and worth visiting. This small town is renowned for being home to the confluence of the Alaknanda and Bagirathi Rivers. However, beyond this natural wonder, you also get to immerse yourself in the religious experiences in the area by visiting popular temples like Raghunathji Temple, Chandrabadni Temple and Kyunkaleshwar Mahadev Temple. For some adventure, visit the suspension bridges to capture photographs of the surrounding valleys and rivers flowing underneath. You must also see Teen Dhara, where three lakes flow simultaneously.

Distance From Paonta Sahib: Approximately 157 Km
Major Attractions: Alaknanda and Bagirathi Rivers, Raghunathji Temple, Chandrabadni Temple and Kyunkaleshwar Mahadev Temple

9. Tara Devi Temple

Tara Devi Temple is one of the attractions near Paonta Sahib that is located atop a hill

Photo: Pankajkukreti03 / Wikimedia Commons

Located on the outskirts of Shimla, Tara Devi Temple is one of the most visited temples in Himachal Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Tara, a form of the Hindu goddess Durga and is located on top of a hill. According to historical evidence, the temple was built around 250 years ago. Inside the temple lies the idol of Goddess Tara, which was made entirely out of wood initially. However, after shifting to the current location of the temple, the inner sanctum now houses an idol that is made out of a combination of 8 rare elements. The temple is currently situated at an elevation of 7200 feet.

Distance From Paonta Sahib: 158 Km
Major Attractions: Tara Devi Temple

Suggested Read: Devi Temples In Himachal Pradesh

10. Dadar

Dadar is a serene village in Himachal that has dense forests and tranquil trekking trails

Photo: Jan J George / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Up next on the list of the best places to visit near Paonta Sahib is Dadar. This serene village in Himachal Pradesh is ideal for tourists looking for an escape from the daily hustle of life. The tranquil ambience, dense forests and nature trails are enough to make you get lost in the charm of the area. Also, the village is renowned for its trekking trails, attracting adventure enthusiasts from across the country. Visitors can explore ancient temples that dot the village like Swaminarayan Temple, Bindrabin Temple, and Om Mandir, reflecting the local architectural style and religious significance.

Distance From Paonta Sahib: 276 Km

11. Renuka Lake

Image of  Renuka Lake and boats for travellers to ride and explore around

Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons

Renuka Lake is the largest natural lake in Himachal Pradesh and one of the places to visit near Paonta Sahib within 50 kms. Surrounded by lush forests and hills, it is a peaceful spot ideal for picnics, boating, and nature walks. The lake is named after Renuka, the mother of Lord Parshuram, and has mythological significance. Temples around the lake attract pilgrims throughout the year. With its calm waters and picturesque surroundings, Renuka Lake is perfect for a day trip or a quiet weekend getaway.

Distance From Paonta Sahib: 42 km
Major Attractions: Boating, Renuka Temple, Parshuram Tal, scenic nature walks

Suggested Read: Lakes In Himachal

12. Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary

Image of a peacock with vibrant color feathers - Paonta sahib visiting places

Photo: Yaopey Yong / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Located close to Renuka Lake, the Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary is a small but rich biodiversity hotspot. It’s home to various species of deer, leopards, wild boars, and a range of birdlife. The sanctuary also houses a mini-zoo and a lion safari, making it a fun visit for families and wildlife enthusiasts. The natural setting, with dense forests and serene trails, offers visitors a chance to enjoy a quiet retreat in nature while spotting local fauna.

Distance From Paonta Sahib: 42 km
Major Attractions: Mini Zoo, Lion Safari, trekking trails, deer and bird sightings, nature exploration

13. Kufri

Picturesque view of Kufri mountains and lush green trees - tourist places near Paonta Sahib

Photo: Arun Yokesh / Unsplash

Kufri, a charming hill station near Paonta Sahib, is known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities. This destination is popular for snow-covered landscapes in winter and pleasant weather in summer. Kufri offers attractions like the Himalayan Nature Park and Mahasu Peak. Adventure seekers can enjoy skiing, tobogganing, and horse riding. It’s also a great place for families and couples who want to relax and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Distance From Paonta Sahib: Approximately 130 km
Major Attractions: Himalayan Nature Park, Mahasu Peak, Kufri Fun World, adventure activities like skiing and horse riding

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Kufri For An Enchanting Holiday

14. Dharamshala

Image of Beautiful Stadium, Dharamshala - places to visit near paonta sahib

Photo: Maninder Sidhu / Unsplash

Dharamshala is a peaceful hill town surrounded by deodar forests and the Dhauladhar mountain range. Known as the residence of the Dalai Lama, it blends Tibetan culture with natural beauty. Key attractions include McLeod Ganj, Namgyal Monastery, Bhagsu Waterfall, and the Tibetan Museum. Visitors can enjoy trekking, shopping for handicrafts, or simply soaking in the spiritual atmosphere. Dharamshala is ideal for those looking to unwind in a serene and culturally rich environment.

Distance From Paonta Sahib: Approximately 230 km
Major Attractions: McLeod Ganj, Namgyal Monastery, Bhagsu Waterfall, Tibetan Museum, Dalai Lama Temple

15. Dalhousie

Image of Dalhousie scenic views with lush greenery covered mountains under clear blue sky

Photo: Harmeet Singh / Unsplash

Dalhousie is a tranquil hill station offering colonial charm and picturesque landscapes. With its cool climate, pine-clad valleys, and snow-capped peaks, it’s a great escape from the heat. Attractions include Khajjiar (often called Mini Switzerland), Panchpula, and Satdhara Falls. Nature walks, photography, and horse riding are popular activities here. Dalhousie appeals to families, honeymooners, and solo travelers looking for a laid-back retreat amidst the Himalayas.

Distance From Paonta Sahib: Approximately 285 km
Major Attractions: Khajjiar, Panchpula, Satdhara Falls, Dainkund Peak, St. John’s Church

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit Near Dalhousie On Your Next Trip To Himachal

The region surrounding Paonta Sahib brims with diverse attractions that cater to a wide range of interests. Once you finish your exploration of the village, take your time to explore the places near Paonta Sahib to immerse yourself in the history, culture and traditions of Himachal Pradesh. Depending on when you are planning your trip, ensure that you sort out all your bookings with TripXL to avail the best discounts.

Cover Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, activities such as trekking, nature walks, and wildlife spotting are popular in destinations like Dadra and Haripurdhar.
Local buses, taxis, and rental cars are commonly used for transportation in the region and throughout Himachal.
Yes, various local festivals such as the Renuka Fair at Renuka Lake and traditional village fairs occur throughout the year.
The weather varies with altitude. Lower regions like Paonta Sahib are usually pleasant throughout the year, with temperatures around 10-25 degrees Celsius.
Yes, local markets in towns like Nahan, Solan, and Shimla offer a range of local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional products.
The best time to explore places near Paonta Sahib is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing, nature walks, and outdoor activities in the surrounding hill stations.
You can find local dhabas and restaurants near Paonta Sahib offering North Indian, Himachali, and Punjabi cuisine. Popular options include Hotel Yamuna and HPTDC’s restaurant near Gurudwara Paonta Sahib for decent vegetarian meals.
Two to three days are sufficient to explore Paonta Sahib, covering the main attractions like Gurudwara, nearby temples, riverfront spots, and short day trips to Renuka Lake.

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