Shikari Mata And Kamrunag Ways are again open for this year and peoples from all over the state are enjoying this summer visits to these places. Both are very beautiful places to visit.Shikarimata.com brings you Shikari vally pictures, articles from Beautiful natural Hills of Mandi District Himachal Pradesh India.
About 250kms away from Shimla is the strikingly beautiful district of Kinnaur, where the icy waters of the River Sutlej and its tributaries have carved deep gorges through the high ranges. The landscape varies from the lush green orchards of the picturesque Sangla Valley to the stark magnificence of the Hang rang Valley.
Along the valley of the River Baspa, terraced fields surround villages that cling to the steep slopes above the gorge. Higher still, are beautiful Rolling Meadows spiked with iris and wild flowers in spring and dotted with shrubs of rhododendron in varying shade of pink. The massive snow clad ranges that provided a regal dignity to the scene are dominated by the peak of the Kinner Kailash revered by the Kinnauris as the abode of Lord Shiva.
The road from Shimla to Kinnaur follows a scenic route, running through Narkanda in the heart of the apple country, past kumarsain, descending to the Sutlej Valley and the trading town of Rampur, then on to the beautiful village of Sarahan the last stop before entering Kinnaur.
ALTITUDE: HIGH ALTITUDE VALLEYS 2,500M OR MORE.
TEMPERATURE: Cold with temperatures well below Zero in winter.
SEASON: June to Oct Ideal for treks.
CLOTHING: HEAVY WOOLLENS.
HOW TO GET THERE: AIR: Shimla (25kms) is the nearest airport.
RAIL: Nearest railhead is Kalka.
ROAD: Linked by road to Shimla. The N.H.22 runs through the district to Spiti and links important centers along the route.
BUS: Buses, Jeep and taxis are available from Shimla and Rampur.
SARAHAN: Drive 177kms past woodland and orchards – and through the Sutlej Valley to Sarahan.
Sarahan is regarded as the shonitpur of old. And here, in a truly splendid setting, Banasura of legend once ruled. With the Bhimakali temple complex, Sarahan is revered as one of the 51 sacred shaktipeeths.
As the mists of myth gave way to verifiable history, the beautiful spot of Sarahan became the capital of the princely state of Bushair. The raja moved here from Kamru, the original seat in the Baspa Valley. In the 18th century another shift was made to Rampur on the lower boundaries of the state. Bushier was regarded as one of the wealthiest states of the region and was a major entry point for trade with Tibet, Ladakh, Kashmir and Kazakhstan.
KARCHAM: The N.H.22 that follows the old Hindustan – Tibet route goes past the villages of Jeri, Wangtu and Tapri to Karcham (1,899m) located at the confluence of the Sutlej and Baspa rivers – a beautiful village and the start of the picturesque Baspa or Sangla Valley.
SANGLA (2,860M): The largest village in the area, scenic Sangla is 18kms from Karcham. A link road that goes off the N.H.22 into the Baspa Valley offers an enchanting vista at every curve. There are saffron fields, orchards and higher up, as the road climbs the steep inclines, lovely alpine meadows. Sangla is built up a sharp slope with the houses rising in tiers. The Kinner Kailash Peak dominates the view. From Sangla, it is possible to visit the Karma Fort, an imposing fortress – style temple dedicated to the goddess Kali.
CHITKUL (3,450M): The last and the highest village in this valley, Chitkul, 26kms from Sangla, are noted for its alpine meadows and snows capes. It has a rest house.
POWARI: Powari, 70kms form Rampur, is the last major stop on the N.H.22 with a Petrol Station. The link road, to the district headquarters Recong Peo, takes off from Powari.
RECONG PEO (2,670m): Located 260kms from Shimla and 07kms from Powari, Recong Peo is the headquarters of the district. It has a rest house and hotels and a fine view of the Kinner Kailash.
KOTHI: Just 03kms from Recong Peo, Kothi has a temple to the goddess Chandika Devi. Set against a backdrop of mountains and groves of deodar, the temple has an unusual architectural style and fine sculpture. An exquisite gold image of the goddess is enshrined in the sanctum.
KALPA (2,759m): Beyond Recong Peo (14kms from Powari), on the link road, is the main village of the district – Kalpa. Across the river, facing Kalpa is the majesty of the Kinner Kailash range. They are a spectacular sight early in the morning, as the rising sun touches the snowy peaks with crimson and gold light.
PUH (2,837M): Lush green fields, orchards of apricot, vineyards and groves of almond trees, are to be seen on the route to Puh. Just 58kms from Powari along the N.H.22, puh has modern facilities for a comfortable stay.
NAKO (3,662M): A little off the N.H.22 along a link road just short of Yang hang is the scenic village of Nako, the largest village in the desolate Hangrang Valley. A little lake reflects the stark grandeur of the surrounding hills.
Overlooking the vast Govind Sager reservoir of the Bhakra Dam, Bilaspur is on the main highway between Chandigarh and Mandi. It has some old and interesting temples. A little ahead of the town is a well-located Restaurant Lake View with a fine outlook over the reservoir.
ALTITUDE: Around 673m above sea level.
TEMPERATURE: Warm in summer, cold in winter.
SEASON: Throughout the year.
CLOTHING: Cottons in summer, woolens in winter.
HOW TO GET THERE: Bilaspur is on the N.H.21 between Chandigarh and Mandi. The nearest Airport is Chandigarh. The nearest railhead is Chandigarh.
GOVIND SAGAR (673M): The biggest man made lake in Himachal, Govind Sager is surrounded by low-lying wooded hills. It has facilities for various types of water sports and for angling.
NAINA DEVI (915M): Just 57kms from Bilaspur and 34kms from Kiratpur is the famous shrine of Naina Devi. The temple, up on a hill, has a panoramic view of the town of Anandpur Sahib, of the low-lying ranges and the River Sutlej. A colorful fair, the Shravana Astami Mela, is held in July / August every year.
The high Rohtang Pass (3980m), at the top of the Kullu Valley very near Manali, is the main entry point to the stark splendor of Lahaul a part of the district of Lahaul – Spiti. The Manali – Leh Road, one of the highest highways in the world, crosses the subdivision linking Keylong, its headquarters, to Manali.
After leaving behind the lush green meadows and orchards of the Kullu Valley, the change in the landscape is dramatic and the road descends from the Rohtang Pass into a landscape of bare hills, steep ridges, cliffs of bare rock, deep ravines and valleys strewn with the moraine left behind by receding glaciers. Little villages with their patchwork of green fields, located near gushing streams, provide colour and relief to this rather forbidding landscape.
Lahaul with its curious mix of Buddhism and Hinduism has fine gompas (monasteries) and temples. The gompas, repositories of Lahaul’s rich store of Buddhist art and culture, are the focus of all the social activity and festivity in the region.
ALTITUDE: 3,350M
CLIMATE: DRY AND VERY COLD.
SEASON: JUNE TO Oct.
CLOTHING: Heavy Woolens.
INNER LINE REGULATIONSFOR LAHAUL – SPITI & KINNAUR
(A) Consequent to the shifting of the Inner line (protected Area), in Himachal Parades, foreign tourist can visit the following areas of tourist interest without a permit: KAZA.
(a) KAZA – KIBBAR – PRANGLA PASS – BARA LACHA – KEYLONG – MANALI (For trekking).
(B) Relaxation for foreign group tourists: Groups of foreign tourists, consisting of four or more, are allowed to visit the following areas within the Protected Areas, in the identified tour circuits only after obtaining a permit from the competent authority:
(C) Protected Area Permits for foreign tourist groups are issued by:
(a) Special Commissioner (Tourism) Govt. of Himachal Pradesh, New Delhi.
(b) Resident Commissioner, Govt. of Himachal Pradesh, New Delhi.
(c) Director General of Police, Himachal Pradesh, Shimla.
HOW TO GET THERE: Air: Nearest Airport is Kullu.
By Road: Accessible by road (115kms) on the Manali – Leh Highway.
Bus Services: Linked by bus to Manali and Spiti Valley.
GRAMPHU: A junction on the Manali – Leh Highway, where a road branches off to go south towards Kunzam Pass and Spiti. (77kms from Manali).
KOKSAR (3,140m): Going north from Grampus along the highway is koksar, the coldest place in Lahaul.
TANDI: At the confluence of the of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers, Tandi is just 08km short of Keylong. The monastery of Guru Chantal is located high above Tandi.
KEYLONG: The district headquarters, Keylong (3,350m), is located in the heart of Lahaul. An early English traveler as a barbaric jewel, “a rough cut emerald in a bronze and silver setting” has described it. The green so its fields, with willows and poplars planted along watercourses, make a patch of brilliant colour against the bare hills. A number of important gompas are located in the vicinity of Keylong.
GONDLA (18kms): On the right bank of the River Chandra, the tall imposing structure up on a hill is also a fortification.
KARDANG (05KMS): The largest monastery in the area, it has barrel sized prayer drums that the monks turn during their perambulations, paintings, ancient weapons, musical instruments and large life size statues of Buddha and the Bodhisattvas.
SHASHUR (03kms): The Saturn monastery, perched upon a mountain – side, nearly 600m above the valley, opposite Khardang, is approached by a steep and difficult track.
Other ancient monasteries – TAYL, 06kms from Keylong and Guru Chantal, 04kms above Tandi are also noted for their stuccos and wall paintings.
UDAIPUR: Located in upper Lahaul, (59kms from Keylong), in the Pattan Valley, Udaipur is the starting point for a number of exciting treks to Chamba – Kist war and Padam. It has a rest house and camping sites.
MRIKULA DEVI TEMPLE: Built in the 15th century by the ruler of Chamba, this temple has exquisite woodcarving and an image of Mahishasuramardini.
TRILOKNATH TEMPLE: This ancient hilltop shrine is also noted for its fine woodcarving. The temple that is sacred to Hindus and Buddhists has a white marble image of the Avalokiteshvara.
SURAJ TAL: One of the high altitude lakes in this area, Suraj Tal is 65kms from Keylong. This emerald lake is the source of the River Bhaga.
BARA LACHA PASS (4,883M): A high pass on the Manali – Leh Road, 73kms from Keylong. The Chandra, Bhaga and Yurian rivers originate here. It is a base for treks to the Chandra Tal Lake in Spiti and even to Leh.
SARCHU: The last point on the Himachal Pradesh _ Ladakh Border.
LAKE CHANDRA TAL (4,270M): This beautiful high altitude lake is also approachable through the Kumzam pass, which links Lahaul and Spiti.
BATAL (3,960M): In Southern Lahaul, Batal is a base for treks to lake Chandra Tal and beyond to the Bara Lacha pass on the Manali – Leh Road.
BARA SHINGRI GLACIER: The mouth of this glacier is 04kms from Batal, on the left bank of the Chandra River. Here the Shire stream emerges from beneath an iridescent archway of ice.
Shimla is choice of all peoples from a long time before and due to its beauty and rich great culture , this district is also known as Hill Queen of India and himachal Pradesh. Shimla was Summar capital of India at time of British Empire. The British Empire may have ceased to exist, but its echoes linger on in Shimla (2130m). As the ‘summer capital’ of the British in India. This was the country’s focus for the better part of every year and now, it is the state capital of Himachal Pradesh.ets and pickles, jams and squashes.
In roharu there is polytechnic college for providing technical education for students.
The historic town of Mandi (800 m) is built along the banks of the river Beas. It has long been an important commercial centre and the sage Mandva is said to have meditated here. This one time capital of the princely state of Mandi is a fast developing town that still retains much of its original charm and character. Today, it is a district headquarters. Mandi is renowned for its 81 old stone temples and their enormous range of fine carving, it is often called the ‘Varanasi of the Hills’. The town has remains of old palaces and notable examples of ‘colonial’ architecture. HPTDC runs a hotel here.GENERAL INFORMATION
AREA: 3950 sq. kmPOPULATION: 9.01 lakhCLOTHING: Cotton clothes in Summer and woolen to heavy woolen in winter.LANGUAGE: Hindi, Punjabi, English are understood and spoken by the people engaged in tourism trade.APPROACHRAIL: The nearest railway stations are Joginder Nagar and Shimla by narrow gauge train, Chandigarh and Kalka by broad gauge train which are connected by regular bus services.ROAD: Mandi is approachable by road from Shimla, Chandigarh, Pathankot and Delhi. There are regular bus services linking it to the other towns like Manali, Palampur and Dharamshala.WHOM TO CONTACT
For accommodation and guidance on sight seeing, please contact:
District Tourism Development Officer, Mandi. Phone: 01905-237635.
Private Travel Agents.
WHAT TO SEE
1.
REWALSAR: About 25 km from Mandi, 14 km from Ner Chownk is the Rewalsar lake, famous for its floating islands of reed. It is believed that all seven of them can be moved by prayer or breeze. There are three shrines here, a Buddhist Monastery, where elaborate rituals are performed, a Sikh Gurudwara and a Hindu Temple. It was from this place that the sage Padma Sambhava, a zealous teacher of Buddhism, left as a missionary to preach the doctrine of “the enlightened” in Tibet. Lying in a mountain hollow, the lake is held sacred to all three communities, boating facilities are available. Tourist inn maintained by HPTDC provide accomodation and Indian cuisine.
2.
PRASHAR: Standing majestically amidst alpine pastures at a height of 9600 ft in the hills of Mandi, the Prasher Lake is emerging as a new tourist destination. The place has immense potential for tourism but it remained in oblivion all these years.This lake lies 40 k.m. north of Mandi, with a three storied pagoda like temple dedicated to the sage Prashar.
3.
JOGINDER NAGAR: The large hydro-electric project in Jogindernagar is a living tribute to man he has harnessed and tamed the wild and roaring river for his betterment.Here an electric trolley takes the visitor up the steep,rocky face of 2,500 metres-high(8,202 ft) mountain and drops sharply on the other side to Barot,where the reservoir is located.
The railway line goes up to the power station,the water rushing down from the reservoir at Barot in the Uhl river through penstock pipes going down nearly a thousand metres(3,280 ft). For tourists who go up to Barot by the trolley there is a comfortable rest house of the Electricity department.The roads extends beyond to Mandi and passes the Largi gorge to the Kullu valley.
Bassi power station is five kilometres from Jogindernagar and next to it, is Machinhar where fishing is not permitted as it is considered a sacred spot, but it is a popular as a feeding spot for fish.
4.
SUNDER NAGAR: Famous for its temples,26 k.m. from Mandi towards Shimla and at a height of 1,174 metres on the raised edge of a fertile valley, the beautiful town of Sundernagar is known for its shady walks amidst towering trees. On top of a hill and visited by thousands of devotees every year, is the Sukhdev Vatika and temple of Mahamaya.
The biggest hydro-electric project in all Asia, the Beas-Sutlej project, irrigating nearly one-fourth of the northern plains of India,has brought unprecedented prosperity to Sudernagar. The Beas-Sutlej link colony is the biggest colony in Himachal Pradesh.
5.
JANJEHLI: At a distance of 67 k.m. from Mandi,Janjehli is a paradise for hikers, offering treks up to a height of 3,300 metres. After covering 32 k.m. by a motorable road up to Gohar and rest of the journey is on foot. In the midest of thick forest, forests (15 km from Gohar) is Bajahi.There is a beautiful and well furnished rest house to stay overnight, from here Janjehli is a scant 20 km away through bridle path
6.
SHIKARI MATA Placed at a sublime height of 3359m above sea level, Shikari Devi temple is 18km from Chindi (a tiny hamlet on the ridge of the Karsog Valley in the Himalayas, admired for its splendid view of the pine and deodar woods and apple orchards) in Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh. The temple is an antique, roofless shrine, situated at the apex of a hill in Shikari Devi. Encircled by dense woods, the temple commands brilliant views of the snow-topped mountains and wooded hills all round. The Shikari Devi temple is devoted to Shikari Devi, the goddess revered in the form of a stone idol. Legend speaks that the temple has been in existence since the period of the Pandavas. Kamru Nag Temple, Rohanda, Barot, Karsog, Chindi, Shikari Devi Sanctuary, Mamaleshwar Temple and Sundernagar are the popular tourist attractions in the vicinity. The temple encompasses a Forest Rest House and also a Serai (inn), where worshippers can stay overnight. Shikari Devi temple is a perfect base for trekking. The temple can be approached from Janjehli and Karsog. Joginder Nagar Railway Station is the closest railhead.
7.
.PANDOH Pandoh Dam is a diversion dam of the River Beas at Pandoh situated about 21 Kms. Upstream of town of Mandi in Himachal Pradesh on Mandi Kullu Road. It is a zoned earth-cum-rockfill dam 76.20m(250 ft.)high above the deepest foundation. A chute spillway with flip bucket for maximum design outflow of 350000 cs. has been provided on left abutment. There are five bays in which high pressure top seal type radial gates have been installed for regulating flow of water. Each gate is independently operated by 200 tonnes capacity cylindrical hydraulic hoists.
Kinnaur surrounded by the Tibet to the east, in the northeast corner of Himachal Pradesh, about 235 kms from Shimla is a tremendously beautiful district having the three high mountains ranges i.e. Zanskar, Greater Himalayas and Dhauladhar, enclosing valleys of Sutlej, Spiti, Baspa and their tributaries. All the valleys are strikingly beautiful. The slopes are covered with thick wood, orchards, fields and picturesque hamlets. The much religious Shivlinga lies at the peak of Kinner Kailash mountain. The beautiful district was opened for the outsiders in 1989. The old Hindustan-Tibet road passes through the Kinnaur valley along the bank of river Sutlej and finally enters Tibet at Shipki La Pass. And it is not only the scenic beauty which appeals to the young and old alike but also the life styles of the people, their culture, heritage, customs and traditions.
The much honest people which have strong culture and beliefs generally follow the Buddhism and Hinduism believe that the Pandavas came and resided in the land while in the exile. In the ancient mythology the people of Kinnaur are known as Kinners, the halfway between men and gods. Thousands years old monasteries still exist in the area. Both the Buddhists and Hindus live in perfect harmony symbolising the traditional brotherhood and friendship of the people of both the faiths.
The apples, chilgoza and other dry fruits are grown here are world famous. The high terrain here give way to great adventures sports of all kinds. Beautiful trekking routes includes the ‘Parikarma of Kinner Kailash’. Here is also the Beautiful Nako lake and three famous wild life sanctuaries.
Best Time to Visit
Kinnaur is a beautiful district to visit. Great natural scenes, rivers, valleys, high mountains, lakes and green pastures creates a mesmerising scenes for tourists.Best time to visit the district is from April to October.
Kangra district is one of the most picturesque valley of lower Himalayas. The valley, sheltered by the sublime Dhauladhar range, is green and luxuriant. It provides a tremendous contrast in nature of places to be visited. Dharamshala is full of Buddhist air whereas ancient Hindu Temples like Brajeshwari, Baijnath, Jawalamukhi and Chamunda Devi dot the country side.
The history of Kangra valley dates back to the Vedic times more than 3500 years ago. The area was exposed to successive invasions, the last being the British domination over the princes of the hill states. Despite the onslaughts and political upheavals, the arts and crafts of the region continued to develop and found lyrical expressions. Crafts like the exquisitely designed shawls and miniature paintings of this region are internationally appreciated.
KANGRA TOWN: At the confluence of the Bener and Majhi streams, over looking the Ban Ganga torrent, Kangra town is famous for its temples. Notable is the shrine dedicated to goddess Brijeshwari. Kangra is steeped in history and its ruined fort – Nagarkot, stands as testimony to its glorious past. The town was attacked by Mohammed Ghaznavi and subjugated by Emperor Feroz Tuglak and Maharaja Rant Singh. Earlier, Kangra was the capital of the great hill state, its renowned ruler being Maharaja Sansar Chand Katoch, a great patron of arts. The Miniature and Rajput Schools of hill paintings flourished during his reign.
BRAJESHWARI DEVI TEMPLE: Just outside the town is the temple dedicated to Brajeshwari Devi. Known once for its legendary wealth, this temple was subject to successive depredation by invaders from the North. Mohammed of Ghazni is known to have departed with a king’s ransom in gold, silver and jewels in 1009. Destroyed completely in 1905 by an earthquake, it was rebuilt in 1920.
KANGRA FORT: The remains of the fort of the rulers of Kangra are located on a strategic height, overlooking the Ban Ganga and Manjhi rivers.
MAHARANA PRATAP SAGAR: At an altitude of 450 m above sea level, 32 degree north and 76 degrees east. In district Kangra 170 km from Chandigarh, 110 km from Amritsar, 55 km from headquarters at Dharamshala. The closest railway stations are at Mukerian 30 km, and Pathankot at 32 km. The settlements of Nagrota Surian and Jawali-which are located on the sagar’s periphery-are connected by the charming narrow gauge Kangra railway line that connects Pathankot to Jogindernagar. The closest airport is Gaggal 40 km. The lake is well served by a network of roads.
Named in honor of the great patriot Maharana Pratap (1572-97 AD). Maharana Pratap struggled valiantly for freedom of Mewar-as for the principle of independence. In words of chroniclers James Tod and william Crook, “He spurned every overture that had submission for its basis”. Over the river Beas, the Pong dam was completed in 1976. Its reservoir covers an area of about 45000 hectares at maximum possible flooding. The level varies every season and averages around 30000 hectares. Over 200 villages with a population of over 85,000 people lie along the wetland.
Dharamshala is the district headquarter of Kangra district. This is a hill station lying on the spur of the Dhauladhar range about 18 km north east of Kangra town. Hill station is wooded with oak and conifer trees and snow capped mountains enfold three sides of the town while the valley stretches in front. The snow line is perhaps more easily accessible at Dharamshala than at any other hill resort and it is possible to trek to snow point after an early morning’s start.
In 1905, tragedy struck Dharamshala when an earthquake leveled it completely. After its reconstruction, Dharamshala flourished as a quiet health resort. It is divided into two distinct parts. Lower Dharamshala has civil offices and business establishments with courts. Kotwali Bazaar and Upper Dharamshala compose of places with names which bear witness to its history like McLeod Ganj and Forsythe Ganj. Since 1960, when it became a temporary headquarter of His Holiness The Dalai Lama, Dharamshala has risen to international fame as “The Little Lhasa in India”.
Languages: Hindi, English, Punjabi and Pahari are understood & spoken by the people in tourism trade
Shopping: Kotwali Bazaar, a general shopping area, and McLeod Ganj for Tibetan handicrafts
Area: 5739 sq km
Population: 1,149,744
Altitude: Between 1250 m to 1550 m (Dharamshala)
Temperature: Max. 38 C in June: Min. 0 C in Jan.
Rainfall: Varies between 290 to 380 cm.
APPROACH
AIR: The nearest airport at Gaggal is 13 km away after which it is accessible by road.
RAIL: Pathankot, the terminal of the broad gauge railway, is 90 km. There is also a narrow gauge train from Pathankot which comes up to Kangra (94 km). and from here Dharamshala is 17 km by road.
ROAD: Direct and regular bus service from Delhi (470 km), Chandigarh (240 km), Jammu (210 km), Shimla (300 km), Chamba (192 km) and Manali (265 km).
McLEOD GANJ: A number of residential buildings, restaurants, antique and curio shops, together with famous Tibetan institutions have lent importance to McLeod Ganj. The Buddha temple is situated opposite to the present abode of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama and is worth a visit. The Tibetan Institute of performing Arts (TIPA) is 1 km walk from McLeod Ganj and preserves a number of musical dance and theatrical traditions of Tibet. It holds an annual 10-day folk opera commencing on the second Saturday of April. There is also a Tibetan handicraft centre situated at McLeod Ganj and a Sunday market is organized at about 10 minutes walk from here.
BHAGSUNAG FALLS: At a distance of 11 km from Lower Dharamshala, Bhagsunag can be approached by road, here an old temple, a fresh water spring and restaurant are located. Further about 2 km is beautiful Bhagsunag water falls.
DAL LAKE: The lake lies amidst hills and stately fir trees 11 km from Lower Dharamshala connected by motorable road. It is the starting point of excursions and trekking and is located next to the Tibetan Children’s village.
DHARAMKOT: Situated on the crest of hill 11 km from Dharamshala. This picnic spot affords a panoramic view of the Kangra valley, Pong Dam lake and Dhauladhar ranges.
TRIUND: 20 km from Dharamshala, Triund lies at the feet of the perpetually snow clad Dhauladhar at the height of 2975 m. The snow line starts at ilaqa, 5 km. from Triund. It is a popular picnic and trekking spot. Accommodation is available in the rest house of Forest Department, but water has to be fetched from a distance of about 2 km. Ropeway is being installed from Dharamshala to this place.
WAR MEMORIAL: Set amidst beautiful surroundings , this memorial is built near the entry point to Dharamshala to commemorate the memory of those who fought valiantly for the Defence of the motherland.
KUNAL PATHRI: A level 3 km walk from Kotwali Bazaar leads up to the rock temple of the local goddess.
KARERI: 22 km from Kotwali Bazaar it has a rest house for night halt. On way visit Kareri lake situated at the distance of 13 km from rest house. Durbasa and Kali temples are located here.
JWALAMUKHI TEMPLE: The famous temple of Jwalamukhi is 30 km from Kangra and 56 km from Dharamshala. Dedicated to the “GODDESS OF LIGHT”, the temple is one of the most popular Hindu temples in northern India. There is no idol of any kind the flame is considered as a manifestation of the goddess. An eternally burning and shining blue flame emanates from the rock sanctum and is fed by the priests with the offerings of devotees. The golden tower (dome) of the temple was a gift from the Emperor Akbar. Two important fairs are held here during the Navratras in earlier April and mid October. Hotel accommodation, Dharamshala, rest houses and HPTDC hotels with modern facilities are available for visitors to the shrine.
DEHRA GOPIPUR: It is situated on the bank of the Beas. It is possible to use Dehra as a base for different fishing areas like Pong Dam, Pattan, kurn and Nadaun. There are PWD & Forest rest houses for a night stay . one can also visit the famous temple of Chintpurni from here.
TRILOKPUR: It is situated 41 km from Dharamshala and can be approached by road the natural cave temple of Trilokpur contains a stalactite and stalagamite is dedicated to Shiva. High on the ridge of the cave are ruins of a palace and baradari (audience hall) of Lehna Singh Majitha, Governor of Kangra hills during the Sikh rule.
NURPUR: 66 km from Dharamshala, Nurpur is famous for an old fort and a temple of Brij Raj. Nurpur acquired its name in 1672, when Jahangir, the Mughal Emperor named it after his wife Nurjahan. Nurpuri shawls are good. There is a PWD rest house for the convenient stay of tourists.
MASROOR: Known for its monolithic rock temples, Masroor is 15 km south of Kangra. There are 15 rock cut temples in Indo-Aryan style and richly carved. The temples partly ruined now are profusely decorated with sculptural ornamentations, conceived in the same manner as the great temple of Kailash at Elora in Maharastra with which they bear a striking resemblance. The main temple is dedicated to Lord Ram, Lakshman and Sita.
Palampur, at a height of 1219 m, is a main spot in the beautiful valley surrounded by tea gardens and pine trees. The place enjoys a healthy climate and the pine scented air is said to have curative properties. The scenery presents a sublime and beautiful contrast- the plain presents a picture of rural loveliness and repose, while the hills are majestic. Behind this town stands high ranges of Dhauladhar mountains, whose tops remain covered for most part of the year. This place is being developed as large tourist centre. A ropeway and an amusement park is also on the to be established here. An Agricultural University is already functioning and some tea factories are also coming up.
There are also some pleasant walks around the town. A short walk from here takes one to the awe inspiring Bundla chasm which falls over a 100 m to the Bundla stream. The stream is a thin streak running over stony ground far below the cliff. During the monsoon seasons, it swells and rages – madly over the entire width of the chasm taking stones and boulders along with it and makes loud roaring noise like thunder.
APPROACH
AIR: Nearest airport is at Gaggal after which it is accessible by road.
RAIL: Palampur is connected by narrow gauge railway from Pathankot.
ROAD: Palampur is also accessible by road and there are many buses from Dharamshala 40 km, Kangra 18 km, Kullu-Manali 205 km & Shimla 259 km.
WHAT TO SEE
NEUGAL KHAD: Roaring in the rainy season and tinkling all the year around, Neugal Khad offers a fine view of the Dhauladhar range. Himachal Tourism café provides food and a fine view from its restaurant.
BANDLA: Spread over an area of 4 km, the estate has a modern tea factory.
ANDRETTA: Home of the famous artist, SOBHA SINGH and late play-writer. Ms. NORA RICHARDS. There are beautiful paintings worth seeing in their private houses. It affords an excellent view of Dhauladhar range.
CHAMUNDA DEVI: The famous temple dedicated to the goddess Chamunda is 25 km away and Yatri Niwas here provides an excellent accommodation for the visitors.
BAIJNATH: At a distance of 16 km from Palampur, Baijnath is a pilgrimage centre of the Hindus. Here one finds the oldest existing Shiva temple in the country, believed to have been originally built by the Pandavas close to the Binwa Khad.
BIR & BILLING: Bir, surrounded by tea gardens and an amphitheater of low hills, is an ideal landing around for para-gliders. Bir has Buddhist Monasteries that are worth visiting. Fine Tibetan handicraft are also produced here. Billing, up in the hills 14 km from Bir with an arena of 200 km for high altitude and cross country flying, is one of the best air sports sites in the country.
The state capital is named after Shaymla Devi, another form of goddess Kali. It was formed by the British in 1819 and became the summer capital of India in 1864. The hill station seems to have lost much of it’s grandeur to mindless expansion of concrete but still boasts of grand old buildings, spectacular mountain views, beautiful walks away from the mall and a center point for exploring this part of Himachal.
The Mall is the main walkway of Shimla town that runs along the top of the ridge. It a busy shopping area with old colonial buildings, souvenir shops and restaurants. At the end of the Mall is the Scandal Point and beyond it is the Christ Church known for its stained glass windows. The Viceregal Lodge built in the Gothic architecture and houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies. Himachal State Museum, housed in a colonial building with spacious lawns, displays Pahari miniatures, stone sculpture, local handicrafts, textiles and embroidery. The Glen is a beautiful picnic spot 4 km from Shimla located in the thickly wooded Glen. The Summer Hill, 5 km from Shimla, is the place where Gandhi stayed in Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur’s mansion built in Georgian architecture. Chadwick Falls is a splendid fall where water fall from the height of 67 m into a deep gorge. It is 7 km from the main town. Sanjauli is a calm and tranquil locale ideal for leisurely walks.
THE MALL: Main shopping centre of shimla with restaurants. the Gaiety Theatre, which is a reproduction of an old British theatre is a center of cultural activities. A passenger lift of HPTDC can be taken from the Cart Road and the Mall. Lakkar Bazaar adjacent to the Ridge is popular for its wood crafts and souvenirs.
KALI BARI TEMPLE: Few yards from scandal Point towards General Post Office. It is believed that the idol of Goddess Shayamla is enshrined there.
JAKHOO TEMPLE (2.5 Km) 2455 m: Shimla’s highest peak offers a panoramic view of the town. An ancient “Lord Hanuman” temple. Way from Ridge near Church (on foot) One can also hire pony or taxi to visit the temple.
STATE MEUSEUM (3 Km): Ancient Historical Sculptors and paintings of Himachal Pradesh. Visiting hours 10 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Monday and gazetted holidays.
INDIAN INSTITUTE OF ADVANCED STUDIES (4 Km) 1983 m: This magnificent English renaissance structure was the former Viceregal Lodge. Its lawns and woodland are added attractions. Entry by ticket.
PROSPECT HILL (5 Km) 2155 m: Crowned by a temple dedicated to Kamna Devi 15 minutes walk from Boileauganj on shimla Bilaspur road. the hill offers a spectacular views of the area.
SUMMER HILL (7 Km) 1983 m: A picturesque superb on Shimla-Kalka Railway line. Offers shady walks in quiet surroundings. The Father of Nation, Mahatma Gandhi during his visit to Shimla lived in the elegant Georgian House of Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur. HP University is situated here.
CHADWICK FALLS (7 Km) 1586 m: Surrounded by thick forests. About 45 minutes walk from Summer Hill Chowk.
SANKAT MOCHAN (7 Km) 1975 m: On Shimla-Kalka road (NH-22) is famous “Lord Hanuman” temple. It commands an excellent view of Shimla town. The place can be visited by Bus/Taxi.
TARA DEVI (11 Km) 1851 m: On Shimla – Kalka road (NH-22) this holy place is accessible by Rail, bus and car. From the station/road-one can visit the temple either on foot or by taxi / jeep.
FAGU (22 Km) 2450 m: On Hindustan-Tibet Road. It has enchanting views. Himachal Tourism runs the Hotel peach Blossom.
NARKANDA (65 Km) 2708 m: On the Hindustan Tibet road, Narkanda offers spectacular views of snow ranges. An uphill trek through Deodar woods leads to Hatu Peak (8 Km). Ancient temple of Hatu Mata is alive with skiers. HPTDC runs Hotel Hatu and in winters short skiing courses are organised.
KOTGARH (82 Km) 1830 m: Motorable, bifurcation from Narkanda (18 Km) Land of apples and apricots.
RAMPUR (130 Km) 924 m: On the Hindustan Tibet Road. Once the capital of the Princely State of Bushahr, the town is situated on the banks of Satluj river, Big Commercial Centre and famous International Lavi fare which is held in November every year, Dumgir Buddhist Temple, Padam Palace, Raghunath Temple, Ayodhya temple and Narsingh Temple, are worth visiting. Himachal Tourism runs a tourist Complex and air conditioned Cafe, Satluj.
SARAHAN (171 Km) 1950 m: On Hindustan Tibet Road from Jeori Sarahan is (17 Km) with spectacular view of Srikhand range. Sarahan has the majestic Bhimkali Temple. Himachal Tourism runs Hotel Shrikhand. Saharan is the gateway to Kinnaur. A Pheasant Breading Centre and stadium are worth visiting.
KHARAPATHHAR (85 Km) 2673 m: Motorable on Shimla-Rohru road. A famous religious shrine Giriganga is 7 Km on foot or by jeep. HPTDC Tourist complex Giriganga Resort under construction.
JUBBAL (90 Km) 1892 m: Headquarters of the erstwhile Princely State, Jubbal has a superbly maintained Palace which was designed by a French architect in the 1930 and is remarkable mix of European and indigenous styles.
HATKOTI (109 Km) 1400 m: Motorable on shimla-Rohru highway. Famous for ancient temple of Mata Hateswari in the midst of paddy fields on the right bank of the Pabber river. HPTDC runs Hotel Pabber here.
MASHOBRA (12 Km) 2148 m: Motorable on Shimla-Naldehra road. Surrounded by thick forests and offers ideal walks. Goddess Durga temple is worth seeing.
CRAIGNANO (18 Km) 2149 m: Motorable on Shimla-Naldhera road, Ideal picnic spot with lawns and garden.
NALDEHRA (23 Km) 2044 m: Motorable On Shimla Tattapani road. this is a nine hole golf course. It was designed by the British viceroy, Lord Curzon who was so enchanted by this place that he gave his daughter Alexandra, Naldehra as her second name. Ancient Nag temple is also situated here. Himachal Tourism runs Hotel Golf Glade here.
TATTAPANI (53 Km) 680 m: Motorable on Shimla-Mandi Highway via Naldehra. Tattapani has hot water springs having sulpher contents, also Hindu temples and Shiv Goofa at Saraur (4 Km) are worth seeing places
CHINDI (94 Km) 2010 m: Motorable on Shimla-Mandi highway via Tattapani – A beautiful place in Karsog Valley. Himachal tourism’s tourist Resort is opening shortly. One can also visit famous mahunag Temple (18 Km). Mamleshwar mahadev Temple (13 Km) Kamaksha Devi temple (19 Km) Pangna Killa/temple (8 Km) and Shikari Devi Temple (18 Km).
GENERAL INFORMATION
AREA: 5131 sq. km
POPULATION: 7.22 lakh
THE RIDGE: The large open space in the heart of town presents excellent view of the mountain ranges. Shimla’s landmarks-the Neo-Gothic structure of Christ Church and the new-Tudor library building are worth seeing.
The earliest known inhabitants of the region were tribals called Dasas. Later, Aryans came and they assimilated in the tribes. In the later centuries, the hill chieftains accepted suzerainty of the Mauryan empire, the Kaushans, the Guptas and Kanuaj rulers. During the Mughal period, the Rajas of the hill states made some mutually agreed arrangements which governed their relations. In the 19th century, Ranjit Singh annexed/subjugated many of the states. When the British came, they defeated Gorkhas and entered into treaties with some Rajas and annexed the kingdoms of others. The situation more or less remained unchanged till 1947. After Independence, 30 princely states of the area were united and 
Himachal Pradesh was formed on 15th April, 1948. With the recognition of Punjab on 1st November, 1966, certain areas belonging to it were also included in Himachal Pradesh. On 25th January, 1971, Himachal Pradesh was made a full-fledged State.
The State is bordered by Jammu & Kashmir on North, Punjab on West and South-West, Haryana on South, Uttar Pradesh on South-East and China on the East.
PRASHAR TEMPLE: This temple, built in the 14th century, is a shrine where the rulers of Mandionce worshipped. The pagoda-style temple stands in the little green hollow around the Prashar lake, above the town of Pandoh. The views of the mountains are spectacular.
