Traveling is always fun—but traveling with your pet? That’s a whole new kind of adventure. I recently took a trip to Himachal Pradesh with my four-legged best friend, and it was one of the most heartwarming experiences of my life. Here’s a little peek into our journey—full of wagging tails, mountain views, and memories that will stay with us forever.
Getting Ready for the Mountains
Before hitting the road, I made sure we were fully prepared. Traveling with a pet needs some extra planning:
- Packed enough food, treats, and water
- Carried a leash, harness, and poop bags
- Took a small blanket and his favorite toy for comfort
- Made sure he was vaccinated and carried his health certificate
I also looked up pet-friendly hotels and homestays in Himachal. Thankfully, there are quite a few cozy places that welcome pets with open arms!
We started our journey by road. My dog was super excited—head out the window, ears flapping, loving every bit of the wind. We made several stops for quick walks and snacks. People we met along the way were curious and kind. A few even offered him treats!
🏔️ Manali
We stayed at a beautiful homestay just outside Manali. They had a big garden where my dog could run freely. He loved playing in the snow—it was his first time! We also found a pet-friendly café where the staff brought him a bowl of warm milk. Total win.
🌲 Kasol & Parvati Valley
This was a dream. Calm rivers, pine forests, and peaceful trails. We did a short hike together—nothing too intense—and my dog enjoyed sniffing everything. Everyone we met here was super chill and loved seeing a traveler with a pet.
🕉️ Dharamshala / McLeod Ganj
We explored the markets and even visited a quiet monastery where pets were allowed in the outer areas. My dog sat calmly while I enjoyed some tea and mountain views. The peaceful vibe of McLeod really suited both of us.
The Not-So-Easy Parts
Of course, there were a few hiccups:
- Some places didn’t allow pets, so we had to skip them
- Cold nights needed extra care to keep my buddy warm
- Carrying his food and supplies added a bit of extra weight
But honestly? Totally worth it.
Moments That Melted My Heart
- A local kid shared her momos with my dog (don’t worry—I only let him have one!)
- Watching him roll in fresh snow for the first time
- Sitting together by a bonfire, just looking at the stars
These little moments made everything magical.
Tips for Fellow Pet Parents
Thinking of doing a trip like this? Here are a few tips:
- Visit between March and June or September to November—weather’s great!
- Always call ahead to confirm pet-friendly stays
- Keep your pet hydrated and warm
- Carry a small first-aid kit—for both of you
Wrapping Up
This trip wasn’t just about mountains and travel—it was about bonding, about seeing the world through my pet’s eyes. Himachal gave us more than views—it gave us memories.
If you’ve been thinking about traveling with your pet, go for it. The love and joy you’ll share on the road is like no other. 🐾