Looking for a peaceful spiritual escape blended with natural beauty? 🤔 Let me introduce you to Una, the hidden gem of Himachal Pradesh that offers a unique mix of pilgrimage, nature, and local culture. Located in the Shivalik foothills, this southern district of Himachal is often considered the gateway to the state. 🚪🌿
From the famous Mata Chintpurni Temple to the serene Pong Dam Lake, Una is a place that surprises every traveler with its offbeat charm. Let’s dive into the top tourist places in Una, how to reach them, what to eat, and everything else you need to know for an unforgettable trip! 🧳✨
📍 Introduction to Una: The Spiritual Gateway of Himachal
Una district, located on the border of Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, is known for its temples, religious fairs, and peaceful environment. It’s one of the hottest regions in Himachal during summer, but its cultural richness makes it worth a visit year-round.
Whether you’re a devotee, a nature enthusiast, or a road trip lover, Una fits the bill perfectly! 💯
🧭 Why Visit Una?
- 🛕 Spiritual Significance: Home to ancient temples like Mata Chintpurni, Kaleshwar Mahadev, and Dera Baba Bharbhag Singh.
- 🌊 Natural Wonders: The Pong Dam Lake (Maharana Pratap Sagar) is a haven for migratory birds and a scenic retreat.
- 🎉 Local Fairs & Festivals: Experience Himachali culture during Navratri, Shivratri, and the February Dera Fair.
- 🌄 Offbeat Vibes: Not overly commercialized, making Una a peaceful getaway.
🏯 Top Tourist Places in Una
Let’s explore the best tourist spots in Una that should be on every traveler’s checklist. ✅
🛕 1. Mata Chintpurni Temple
One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Chhinnamastika. It’s believed that wishes made here are fulfilled — hence the name Chintpurni (“remover of worries”). 🌸
📍 Located in Chintpurni village
📆 Best time: Navratri for vibrant celebrations
🛍️ Don’t forget to buy religious souvenirs near the temple
⛩️ 2. Dera Baba Bharbhag Singh Gurudwara
Located near Mubarakpur, this spiritual place is visited by thousands for its healing powers, especially related to mental well-being.
📆 Major event: Annual fair in February
🧘 Perfect for peace, meditation, and spiritual calm
🦢 3. Pong Dam Lake (Maharana Pratap Sagar)
This man-made reservoir on the Beas River is a designated Ramsar Wetland Site. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise, attracting species like bar-headed geese and ruddy shelducks in winter.
🦜 Best time: October to March
🚣 Activities: Boating, photography, picnic, and birdwatching
🔱 4. Kaleshwar Mahadev Temple
Situated in Amb Tehsil, this Shiva temple has roots tracing back to the Mahabharata. Devotees believe Pandavas stayed here during exile. During Shivratri, the place buzzes with devotion.
📍 Near Amb town
🎡 Visit the Shivratri Mela for local culture and food
🏞️ 5. Thaneek Pura
A beautiful hamlet close to Chintpurni, Thaneek Pura offers greenery, peace, and fresh mountain air. It’s also home to smaller temples and Guga Zahar Veer Mela — a local fair with traditional flavor.
🛕 6. Baba Rudranand Ashram
Peace-seekers, this is your place! Located amidst forests, this spiritual center is perfect for meditation, yoga, and mindfulness.
🧘 Best for those looking to disconnect from chaos
🧳 Hidden Gems Around Una
Here are some lesser-known places in Una worth exploring:
- 🧿 Dhunsar Mahadev Temple – Ancient Shiva temple near Bangana
- 🙏 Shiv Bari Temple – Located along the Swan River
- 🌾 Peer Nigaha Shrine – A peaceful and historical spot in Amb region
🍽️ What to Eat in Una?
While in Una, don’t miss these local Himachali delicacies:
- 🍛 Chana Madra – Chickpeas in a yogurt-based gravy
- 🫓 Sidu – Steamed wheat bun filled with ghee and nuts
- 🍚 Mittha – Sweet rice cooked with saffron and dry fruits
- 🍢 Street-side pakoras, chaat, and golgappas near temple towns
You can find tasty food at dhabas, small eateries, and temple langars.
🏨 Where to Stay in Una?
From budget hotels to temple guesthouses, Una offers many options for all types of travelers.
🏨 Recommended stays:
- Hotel Chintpurni Heights (near the temple)
- Una Residency
- Temple dharamshalas for pilgrims
🚙 How to Reach Una, Himachal Pradesh?
Una is well-connected and accessible from neighboring states.
🚗 By Road
- From Chandigarh – 120 km (3.5 hours)
- From Dharamshala – 110 km (3 hours)
Buses and taxis are available regularly.
🚆 By Train
- Una Himachal Railway Station connects to Delhi, Amritsar, and Ambala.
✈️ By Air
- Nearest airport: Gaggal (Kangra) – 100 km away
- Or fly to Chandigarh and drive
📆 Best Time to Visit Una
- 🌤️ October to March: Cool and pleasant, best for sightseeing
- 🕉️ During Navratri: Massive influx of devotees at Chintpurni
- 🌧️ Monsoon (July–Sept): Lush and green but humid
Avoid peak summer (May–June) unless you’re attending temple fairs.
🧠 Local Travel Tips
✅ Carry cash as digital payments may not be available at all shops
✅ Respect local customs and temple decorum
✅ Avoid plastic and maintain eco-friendly travel habits
✅ Use local taxis or auto-rickshaws for short commutes
✅ Dress modestly, especially in religious places
🙋 FAQs about Una Tourist Places
Q1: Which is the most famous tourist place in Una?
A: The Mata Chintpurni Temple is the most famous and attracts thousands of pilgrims every year.
Q2: How many days are enough to explore Una?
A: A 2–3 day trip is perfect to cover the top temples, Pong Dam, and hidden gems.
Q3: Is Una good for a solo traveler?
A: Yes! It’s safe, affordable, and offers peaceful spiritual experiences.
Q4: Are there adventure activities in Una?
A: While it’s not an adventure hub, you can enjoy boating at Pong Dam, trekking trails near Amb, and nature walks.
Q5: Can I visit Una with family?
A: Absolutely! It’s a family-friendly destination with cultural significance, safe spots, and kid-friendly food.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Una, Himachal Pradesh may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of hill station getaways — but that’s exactly why you should go! 🌄🙏
It offers a unique mix of devotion, nature, and culture, minus the overwhelming crowds. Whether you’re on a religious pilgrimage, a peaceful nature escape, or just looking to explore a less-traveled path, Una checks all the boxes.
So pack your bags, carry your camera and spiritual curiosity — Una awaits you with open arms! 🛕🧳📸