Expat living and Digital Nomadism have been a long-standing trend in the west. The concept has swiftly evolved into a Workation and has become mainstream after the Pandemic. Research shows that over 65 percent of Indian travellers now prefer to work remotely.
Post pandemic, another remarkable change is reflected in the preference of locations by Indian travellers. Be it a holiday, a honeymoon or a solo trip, foreign countries were the first choice. Now, 52 percent of the travellers want to travel within the country and stay close to home.
With this shift, the travel industry has deftly adapted to this new way. Accommodation, food, and amenities now being offered by hotels, hostels and homestays, are more accommodative towards long-term travellers, solo travellers, digital nomads and remote workers.
Himachal Pradesh, known as the land of the Gods, has been a haven for trekkers, explorers, adventure-enthusiasts, pilgrims, tourists and now, for remote workers.
Undoubtedly, one of the most diverse states, and the magnificent views of the western Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh, is a perfect mingling of peace and connectivity.
Himachal’s ferocious rivers, mighty mountains, towering forests, and massive valleys make it something for all kinds of travellers.
Keep reading to find out more about where to go, how to plan and everything in between.
Things to consider before planning a workation in Himachal Pradesh
Accomodation
Finding cheap accommodation in Himachal Pradesh is quite easy. Most home stays accommodate long-term travellers. You can find cheaper deals offline. Book your stay for a couple of days and look for offline options to save cost.
Connectivity
Most places in Himachal Pradesh are well-connected with various transportation options, but the frequency is limited. Make sure to find the bus/taxi information beforehand to avoid long waiting periods and odd travelling hours.
Network
All the enlisted properties offer Wi-Fi but don’t rely entirely on the network. Some of the below mentioned destinations still face electricity issues at times, especially the remote ones. Confirm the backup options at the property before you book. BSNL, Airtel and Jio work the best almost throughout Himachal Pradesh.
Workation in Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh
Mcleodganj is a small community of warm people, quaint cafes, blissful monasteries, set overlooking the majestic Dhauladhar range. This expat town is a home to Tibetan refugees, and the Buddhist influence is conspicuous in Mcleodganj. The colourful and quiet town is a perfect amalgamation of spirited people, mystical/spiritual aura and a community of travellers from around the world.
How to reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport (DHM), 20 kms from Mcleodganj. You can get a taxi at the airport for 800 INR/ $11 (2021 rates) or take a bus from Gaggal to Dharamshala and Dharamshala to Mcleodganj (25 + 20 INR).
By Train: The nearest railway station is Pathankot. It is 90 kms from Mcleodganj, you can get a bus from Pathankot to Mcleodganj.
By Road: Mcleodganj is well-connected to major cities like Delhi (either from ISBT or Majnu ka Tilla) and Chandigarh. It is an overnight journey to Mcleodganj.
Best time to travel
The best time to visit Mcleodganj is during spring, summer and fall. Although, you can plan a trip throughout the year. The peak season is between March-June (20-35 °C) and Mid-September to November (25-10°C). During the winters, Mcleodganj experiences light snowfall and the temperature ranges from -4 to 9°C .
Workation Stays in Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh
La Vaca India, Mcleodganj
Accommodation Type: Bed in a 6-bed mixed dormitory
Cost for a month: ₹13050 ($178)
Booking link
goSTOPS, Mcleodganj
Accommodation Type: Hostel
Cost for a month: ₹30,000 ($500)
Booking link
Budget for a vacation in Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh
| Cost | Accommodation | Food | Internal Transport | Miscellaneous |
| Cost per day | ₹350 ($5) | ₹100 ($1.50) per meal ₹300 ($4) | Scooter rent ₹500 ($7) | ₹200 ($3) |
| Cost per month | ₹10000 ($135) | ₹9000 ($123) | ₹5000 ($68) | ₹4000 ($55) |
Accommodation: The accommodation cost in Mcleodganj is between 8k -12k INR/ $110- $164. You can get a comfortable room with a kitchen and balcony for 8k ($110) in Mcleodganj, Dharamkot, Dharamshala, Naddi and Rakkar (neighbouring settlements you can consider for your workation).
Food: There are countless food options available for all budgets. You can get a meal for 100 INR ($1.30). You can find almost all cuisines in most cafes. Some of the must-visit cafes and food joints in Mcleodganj are Tibet Kitchen, Jimmy’s Italian kitchen, Peace Cafe, and Coffee Talk.
Workation in Manali, Himachal Pradesh
How to reach Manali:
One of the major cities in Himachal Pradesh, Manali is well-connected by air, rail and road.
By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar (KUU) Airport, 50 km from Manali. From the airport, you can find a shared taxi to your hotel. The best way to travel is to land at Chandigarh Airport and take a bus to Manali. Chandigarh is well connected to all the major cities in the country.
By Bus: Several buses run from Delhi and Chandigarh. It is an overnight journey, you can opt for luxury, semi-sleeper, HRTC or private buses from both the places.
By Rail: This is a tiresome option due to long in-between stops. The nearest railway station is in Jogindernagar (145 km from Manali). The only option from here is to take a cab till Manali or Kullu. It is very expensive if you’re travelling solo.
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Best time to travel to Manali:
Manali receives tourists all year long. From winter expeditions to monsoon trails, it is open throughout the year for different activities. Overall, the best time to visit Manali is between April-June and September-November.
Workation Stays in Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Stayers Hostel And Cafe
Accommodation Type: Bed in a mixed dormitory
Cost for a month: ₹6138 ($84)
Booking link
goSTOPS Manali
Accommodation Type: Bed in a mixed dormitory
Cost for a month: ₹7597 ($104)
Booking link
Budget for a vacation in Manali, Himachal Pradesh
| Cost | Accommodation | Food | Internal Transport | Miscellaneous |
| Cost per day | ₹300 ($4) | ₹100 ($1.50) per meal ₹300 ($4) | Scooter rent ₹300 ($4) | ₹400 ($5.45) |
| Cost per month | ₹9000 ($123) | ₹9000 ($123) | ₹4000 ($54) | ₹7000 ($95) |
Workation in Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
How to reach Kasol:
By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar (KUU) Airport (31 km). From Bhuntar you can get a cab or a bus to Kasol. The flights to Bhuntar are prone to cancellation due to bad weather. The flights are irregular and expensive. Book in advance to save on the fare.
By Road: There are overnight Volvo buses from Delhi (ISBT) and Chandigarh to Kasol. It is the easiest way to reach Kasol. Almost all buses leave in the evening, so plan your journey accordingly to avoid long waiting hours.
Best time to travel to Kasol:
Owing to its perfect setting, Kasol is distinctly beautiful in every season. The ideal time to plan the trip and enjoy the outdoors is October to June. Travelling to Kasol in monsoons is risky, but you can arrive in May and stay through the monsoon.
Workation Stays in Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
Nomads Hostel
Accommodation Type: Double Room with Mountain View
Cost for a month: ₹13050 ($184)
Hostel Cozy Beds
Accommodation Type: Bed in a 8-bed mixed dormitory
Cost for a month: ₹14471 ($197)
Budget for a vacation in Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
| Cost | Accommodation | Food | Internal Transport | Miscellaneous |
| Cost per day | ₹500 ($7) | ₹110 per meal ($1.50)₹350 ($74.50) | ₹300 ($4) | ₹200 ($2.70) |
| Cost per month | ₹12000 ($165) | ₹10000 ($137) | ₹6000 ($82) | ₹5000 ($69) |
Workation in Jibhi, Himachal Pradesh
Jibhi is one of the rare places in Himachal that is still off the tourist radar but easily accessible by road. A gateway to the Great Himalayan National Park, Jibhi is untouched by the chaos of tourism. It offers remoteness and solitude without going far from civilisation. The quiet old villages, warm culture and people, alluring vistas of the river and mountains, and countless unexplored trails of Jibhi make it a supreme destination for a Workation. In Jibhi you get to stay connected amidst the quietness.
How to reach Jibhi:
By Road: Take a Volvo or HRTC bus from Delhi or Chandigarh to Manali via Mandi. Get down before the Aut tunnel or the Aut town. It is easier to find a bus from the town as the buses near the tunnel are usually crowded. You can get a direct bus to Banjar. From Banjar to Jibhi, you can get a shared taxi or a bus. Distance between Aut and Banjar is 24 km. From Banjar, take a bus going towards Jalori, Shoja or Ghiyagi and get off at Jibhi.
If you want to skip the hassle, you can get a direct shared cab from Mandi and Aut.
By Air and rail: The nearest airport and railway station is Chandigarh (IXC) (260 km) and from Chandigarh follow the same bus route forward.
Tip: The route via Jalori Pass remains closed during winter. You can reach Jibhi via Mandi throughout the year.
Best time to visit Jibhi:
Jibhi experiences high rainfall in monsoon (July-August) and heavy snowfall in winters (Late December- February). The extreme temperature and excessive rain make it difficult to travel to and around Jibhi. Spring (March), summer (April-June), and fall (Late August- Early November) are the best seasons to plan a trip.
Workation Stays in Jibhi, Himachal Pradesh
The Hostalgic, Jibhi
Accommodation Type: Bed in 8-bed mixed dormitory
Cost for a month: ₹8196 ($112)
Booking link
Rock-Top Inn, Jibhi
Accommodation Type: Double Room
Cost for a month: ₹13859 ($189) (for two)
Booking link
Budget for a vacation in Jibhi, Himachal Pradesh
| Cost | Accommodation | Food | Internal Transport | Miscellaneous |
| Cost per day | ₹400 ($5) | ₹500 ($7) | – | – |
| Cost per month | ₹12000 ($163) | ₹15000 ($204) | – | ₹2000 ($27) |
Workation in Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh
How to reach Kalpa:
There are travel restrictions at present for travellers visiting Kinnaur Valley. Please check this before planning your trip.
By Bus: You can book the overnight bus from Delhi or Chandigarh to Reckong Peo. From Reckong Peo there are several local buses to Kalpa.
Distance from Delhi to Reckong Peo: 570 km
Distance from Chandigarh to Reckong Peo: 335 km
Distance from Reckong Peo to Kalpa: 3 km
By Air: Though the closest airport is Shimla (SLV) (235 km), the infrequent and limited flights make it difficult to travel by flights. Take a flight to Chandigarh and then a bus forward to Reckong Peo.
Best time to visit Kalpa:
Kalpa is accessible all year along, with something special for travellers every season. Summer is the best for planning the outdoor activities, treks and exploring the valley. The April – June and September- November months are a good time to plan a trip to Kalpa.
Workation Stays in Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh
The Alpine Nest Hotel
Accommodation Type: Bed in a 6-bed mixed dormitory
Cost for a month: ₹17400 ($237)
Hotel Kalpa Deshang
Accommodation Type: Bed in a mixed dormitory
Cost for a month: ₹21750 ($296)
Budget for a vacation in Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh
| Cost | Accommodation | Food | Internal Transport | Miscellaneous |
| Cost per day | ₹500 ($7) | ₹120 ($1.60) per meal ₹400 ($5.45) | – | – |
| Cost per month | ₹15000 ($204) | ₹12000 ($163) | – | ₹3000 ($41) |
Workation in Sainj, Himachal Pradesh
Located 90 km from Manali, Sainj Valley rests at the foothills of the Great Himalayan National Park. Sainj is the biggest town in the valley, and it is also the most picturesque. Sainj has preserved the essence of Himachali culture, people, and the bustle. A refined combination of old Himachal and the Himalayas, Sainj is a wonderful destination for a Workation.
How to reach Sainj Valley:
By Bus: Take a bus via Mandi from Manali or Chandigarh and get down at Aut. From Aug there are frequent buses to Sainj. If you want to go to Shangarh, you can get a bus from Sainj.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Jogindernagar. It is connected to Chandigarh by a narrow-gauge train. The limited connectivity will slow your journey down. It is better to take a train to Chandigarh and continue on a bus from there.
By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (KUU), 37 km from Sainj. From the airport, you can find a direct cab to Sainj and Shangarh.
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Best time to visit Sainj:
The valley is at its best during the months of April- June and September- October. If you want to experience snow in the Himalayas, February is a great time to plan a workation. Sainj experiences pre-monsoon showers in June. Winter sets in late October and reaches its peak in January.
Workation Stays in Sainj, Himachal Prades
Home Tales Farm stay & retreats Sainj Valley Kullu
Accommodation Type: Double bed in a private room
Cost for a month: ₹24450/ $333 (for two)
Springville
Accommodation Type: Double bed in a private room
Cost for a month: ₹40600+ ₹4870 taxes ($553 + $66) for two people.
Budget for a vacation in Sainj, Himachal Pradesh
| Cost | Accommodation | Food | Internal Transport | Miscellaneous |
| Cost per day | ₹400 ($5.45) | ₹100 ($1.30) per meal ₹300 ($4) | – | |
| Cost per month | ₹12000 ($163) | ₹9000 ($123) | – | ₹5000 ($68) |
Workation in Bir, Himachal Pradesh
A small settlement in the Kangra Valley, Bir is a quiet town of Himachalis, Tibetans and an international community of travellers. It is famed world-wide for its adventure activities such as paragliding (in Billing), trekking, hand-gliding, and camping. A peaceful hamlet in the valley of the Western Himalayas, Bir is also a community space with cafes, meditation centres, monasteries and workspaces.
How to reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Gaggal Airport (DHM). From the airport you can take a cab to Bir (67km) or a bus to Palampur. Take a taxi from Palampur to Bir. The buses are infrequent and inconvenient from here on.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Ahju Railway Station (4.5 km), but the closest broad-gauge railway station is Pathankot (142 km). From Pathankot take a bus to Bir or you can enjoy the toy train from Pathankot to Ahju.
By Bus: This is the most convenient way to travel to Bir. You can take a direct bus from Delhi, Chandigarh or Pathankot.
Best time to Visit Bir:
Although, you can visit Bir throughout the year, it is best to avoid monsoons and peak winters. Bir experiences heavy snowfall, and all the outdoor activities are suspended. April to June and October to December is the best time to plan a trip for a summer and winter experience.
Workation Stays in Bir, Himachal Pradesh
Hipostel Bir
Accommodation Type: Bed in 6-bed mixed dormitory
Cost for a month: ₹11057 ($137)
Monkey Mud Cafe and Camps
Accommodation Type: Dome Tent for two
Cost for a month: ₹23200 ($316) for two people
Budget for a vacation in Bir, Himachal Pradesh
| Cost | Accommodation | Food | Internal Transport | Miscellaneous |
| Cost per day | ₹500 ($7) | ₹110 per meal ($1.50)₹350 ($74.50) | ₹300 ($4) | ₹200 ($2.70) |
| Cost per month | ₹12000 ($165) | ₹10000 ($137) | ₹6000 ($82) | ₹5000 ($69) |
Workation in Mashobra, Himachal Pradesh
Just a few kilometres away from Shimla, Mashobra is excellent for those who want a quiet but connected Workation. It is a great midway between experiencing the alluring vistas of Shimla while avoiding the crowds. Surrounded by lush forests of oaks, deodars, and pines, Mashobra offers a myriad of adventure activities for travellers.
How to reach Mashobra:
Shimla is well-connected by air, rail and road. There are frequent buses from Shimla to Mashobra. You can rent a scooter in Shimla to travel to Mashobra.
By Air: The nearest airport is the Shimla Airport (SLV), 30 km from Mashobra.
By Road: Take the Volvo or HRTC from Chandigarh or Delhi to Shimla.
By Rail: Shimla is the closest railway station to Mashobra. You can take the heritage toy train from Kalka to Shimla. It is one of the must-have experiences in Himachal Pradesh.
Best time to visit Mashobra:
Like most places in Himachal, avoid monsoon and peak winter. The active season ranges between April-June and September-early October.
Workation Stays in Mashobra, Himachal Pradesh
Jagoti Homestay
Accommodation Type: Private room
Cost for a month: ₹30250 ($412)
Booking Link: https://bit.ly/2Pi8M0c
Kavya Homestay
Accommodation Type: Private double room
Cost for a month: ₹41760 ($569) for two
Booking Link: https://bit.ly/2PMUOmG
Budget for a vacation in Mashobra, Himachal Pradesh
| Cost | Accommodation | Food | Internal Transport | Miscellaneous |
| Cost per day | ₹1000 ($14) | ₹200 per meal ($2.70)₹500 ($7) | ₹600 ($8) for scooter | ₹100 ($1.30) |
| Cost per month | ₹30000 ($409) | ₹15000 ($205) | ₹10000 ($136) | ₹3000 ($41) |
Tip: Scooters are expensive in Mashobra and Shimla. Frequent buses and shared taxis are available everywhere.
Workation in Sangla, Himachal Pradesh
Nestled in the transcendent Baspa Valley, Sangla is the last village on the Indo-China border. A place blessed with nature’s bountiful creations, Sangla is one of the most picturesque locations in India. A remote gem along the sublime Baspa River, Sangla is for those who truly want to disconnect and rewind. With snow-clad mountains, apple orchards, the pristine river, and the rustic old village, Sangla is as glorious as a place can get.
How to travel to Sangla:
By Road:
Via Shimla
Take a bus from Delhi or Chandigarh up to Shimla. Move up to Narkanda, continue downhill till Sutlej River. Drive along the river till Karcham. From Karcham, cross over to the other side straight till Sangla. It is a scenic but exhausting journey. Carry some food and water with you.
Delhi to Shimla- 344 km
Chandigarh to Shimla- 112 km
Shimla to Narkanda- 60 km
Narkanda to Karcham- 143 km
Karcham to Sangla- 36 km
Via Manali
The route via Manali is treacherous and tiring, but extremely scenic throughout. The bus crosses the entire Spiti Valley and takes 3 days. Day 1 to Manali, Day 2 to Kaza and Day 3 to Sangla.
By Bus:
The bus route via Manali is the same. From Shimla, you can get a direct bus to Sangla.
There is a direct bus to Sangla from Chandigarh, but it is better to break the journey into parts.
By Air:
The nearest airport is Shimla Airport (SLV) and from Shimla you can take the bus route or book a taxi. There are limited flights to Shimla, so you will have to book a connecting flight from Chandigarh or Delhi.
Best time to visit Sangla:
The ideal months to plan a Workation in Sangla are May-June and September, when the Baspa Valley is in all its glory. The winters are harsh and the routes are closed. Travelling to Sangla in the monsoon is risky.
Workation Stays in Sangla, Himachal Pradesh
Accommodation Type: Deluxe Double Room
Cost for a month: ₹46400 + ₹5568 taxes ($631+ $75) price for two
Booking Link: https://bit.ly/3fwC59P
Debbhumi Regency
Accommodation Type: Basic Triple Room
Cost for a month: ₹52200 + ₹6264 ($710 +$85) for three people
Booking Link: https://bit.ly/3cFYMGR
Budget for a vacation in Sangla, Himachal Pradesh
| Cost | Accommodation | Food | Internal Transport | Miscellaneous |
| Cost per day | ₹500 ($7) | ₹200 per meal ($2.70)₹500 ($7) | ₹100 ($1.30) | |
| Cost per month | ₹12000 ($165) | ₹15000 ($205) | ₹3000 ($41) |
Workation in Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
Surrounded by Himalayas on all sides, Dalhousie is one of the quaint towns in Himachal Pradesh. Known for its rich history and heritage, festivals and lakes, wildlife and awe-inspiring landscapes. The encapsulating mountains covered in meadows and a place with a rich history, Dalhousie, with its old-world charm, is everything you are looking for in a Workation destination.
How to reach Dalhousie:
By Air: The nearest airport is Gaggal (DHM) Airport, 75 km from Dalhousie. From Gaggal bus stop, you can get a direct bus to Dalhousie from Dharamshala.
By Road: There are frequent and well-connected buses from major cities and local towns to Chamba. You can take a private Volvo from Delhi, Chandigarh, Jammu and Pathankot.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Pathankot, 71 km from Dalhousie. You can get a shared taxi, cab or bus from Pathankot to Dalhousie.
Best time to visit Dalhousie:
Dalhousie enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year. It is best to avoid peak monsoon (July- August) and peak winters (January- February). The ideal time to travel and get the most out of your trip is between March to June.
Workation Stays in Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
goSTOPS Dalhousie
Accommodation Type: Bed in 4-bed mixed dormitory
Cost for a month: ₹11280 ($154)
Booking Link: https://bit.ly/3rB14v2
Cost for a month: ₹17371 ($237)
Booking Link: https://bit.ly/3cHdptr
Budget for a vacation in Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
| Cost | Accommodation | Food | Internal Transport | Miscellaneous |
| Cost per day | ₹400 ($5.45) | ₹100 per meal ($1.30)₹300 ($4) | ₹400 ($5.45) | |
| Cost per month | ₹12000 ($165) | ₹9000 ($123) | ₹6000 ($82) | ₹5000 ($68) |
Workation Packages in Himachal Pradesh
Finding the right property, with all the amenities and backups might get overwhelming. If you want to avoid the exhausting process of browsing, shortlisting, and selecting the right property, you can just find the perfect package for your needs.
Homestays of India, has curated special Workation packages to suit your needs. You can select an all-inclusive or accommodation only package for ₹5700($78)/week. They have properties throughout Himachal, pick your location and find the details here.
Himachal is not just a beautiful destination with alluring views, it is a place where you find embracing culture, rich heritage, like-minded community and a pathway to tranquillity. The distant dream of working from the mountains becomes a reality in Himachal Pradesh. The hospitable properties, cosy cafes and vibrant communities offer everything you need for a Workation.
The above list is a mix of off-beat, busy, well-connected, and remote destinations, all of which offer a splendid Workation experience.
Workation in Himachal leaves you with a sense of contentment, as you will inevitably return with a host of unforgettable memories. Whether you are a solo traveller or a group of colleagues, planning Workation in Himachal is effortless, exciting and an experience of a lifetime to cherish and one, you will yearn to recreate.
