These are the twin hills 7 Kms from Bhubaneshwar. The 135 ft high Udaygiri and 118 ft high Khandagiri hills have ancient caves. Khandagiri means "Broken Hill" and Udaygiri means "Hill of the Sunrise." The caves on the two low hills of Udaygiri and Khandagiri give ample proof of Jain and Buddhist occupation. This served as the site of an ancient Jain monastery, which was carved into cave like chambers in the face of the hill. The twin hills of Kumargiri and Kumarigiri known as Khandagiri and Udaygiri contain varieties of rock-cut caves. Dating back to the 2nd century BC, some of the caves have beautiful carvings. The Rani Gumpha (Queen's Cave) - one of the largest and double-storied is ornately embellished with beautiful carvings. In the Hati Gumpha (Elephant Cave), King Kharavela carved out the chronicles of his reign. It is a magnificent specimen of Pali records so far found in India.
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A hill-station similar to those described by Ruskin Bond, sharing vicinity with Dharamshala, Mcleodganj is a trekker's recommended place. The place is a seamless blend of British and Tibetan influence. Coined as the 'Little Lhasa', Mcleodganj, Dharamshala is loved and preferred by tourists and travel apps from across the world for being the birthplace of Dalai Lama, the great Tibetan spiritual pioneer. Mcleod Ganj is renowned as a picture-perfect town seated near the Dharamshala. The serene hill-station takes pride in its stunning landscapes, which happens to be one of their kind in the entire Himachal Pradesh. Traveler Tips Tip 1: Avoid Visiting the hill-station sans booking a hotel at the peak seasons. Landing at Mcleodganj early morning sans a hotel booking would get you in serious trouble as you wouldn’t find a single room available. Tip 2: Do not expect bliss or the hill-station to be quite during the peak seasons. The main ingredients that make up a perfect hill station, shouldn’t be expected during the peak seasons, as the place is thronged by crowds at this time. Tip 3: You are likely to get some great deals in the markets on the street. The street markets dole out some lucrative prices on products and items, however, you must hone our skills of bargaining. Things to Do The top things to do in Mcleod Ganj include Trekking at the Kareri River visiting the famous Namgyal Monastery, going to the Bhangsu Falls, heading out at the Dal Lake and many more. Here are some of the remaining best to-dos in the hill-station that you must try: • An Adventurous Trek to Triund The 9000ft range Triund is situated behind the range and offers a spectacular experience. Upon completion of the trek, you can plan for a stay at the Forest Rest House seated atop the ridge. The 9km trek to Triund is worth all your efforts, given the captivating sight of the Kangra valley that it offers. • Camping in Spellbinding Mcleoganj Nestled in Dharamshala, Mcleodganj is home to some of the most spectacular landscapes of Himachal Pradesh. What attracts tourists from across the world is camping at the encircling valleys and regions followed by the beautiful Dhauladhar Mountains. Camping at Mcleodganj overlooks some of the hypnotizing views of the famous Himalayan peaks. • Trekking and Camping at the Lake Got and Triund Backpacker’s favorite holiday destination, Mcleodganj is also famous and quite popular for the myriad adventurous sports it provides you with including the thrilling Triund Trek, which also leads you to the Lake Got Glacier camping. Few other things to do are a visit to Dalai Lama’s Temple or Tsug La Khang Temple, visiting the Tibetan Museum, a boat ride to the beautiful Dal Lake, enjoying the cultural shows at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts, shopping at the local markets, dining out at the dramatic cafes and fine restaurants. Availability While the hill-station can be visited by tourists all throughout the year, the best time to go and explore the best of Mcleodganj, Dharamshala is during the winter season or during the summer season. The hill-station experiences pleasant summers and chilly winters. History McLeod was birthed back in the 1850s as a settlement of the civilians in the exteriors of Dharamshala's British garrisons. The hill-station was named after Punjab's Lieutenant Governor-Donald McLeod. However, the place was ransacked by the Kangra earthquake in 1905, after which it degraded into obscurity post-Independence. It was then that Dalai Lama landed to build his settlement here in the year of 1960. From that time on, McLeod had become a colorful center of Buddhism ad Tibetan culture. Architecture The Namgyal Monastery is known as Tibetan's famous monasteries, which was set up back in the 16th century and is famous for the seat of Dalai Lama and is home to an impressive statue of the Lord Buddha. The interior of the monastery is a display of some finest paintings, images and plethora of Buddhist idols. Besides this, the Tsuglakhang Dalai Lama Temple is also a testament to Tibet’s finest architectural design. Festival The remarkable festivals celebrated in Mcleodganj, Dharamshala is Buddha Purnima, Lohri, Losar, Himachal Winter Carnival, Drunkpa Tesh, Butoh Dance Festival, etc. Popular Culture The present Mcleodganj, Dharamshala is a flourishing hub of Buddhist and Tibetan traditions, lifestyle, Tibetan astronomy, culture, Yoga, Thai meditation, healing, Tibetan cooking methods, Thai massage, Tibetan language and so forth. More so, the place is a vibrant nucleus of Tibetan carpets, garments, thangkas, handicrafts and artifacts. The place is rightly deserving of the title- 'Little Lhasa' as the place shall instantly transport you to Tibet, with various Buddhist Monks draping burgundy robes chanting their rosary prayers. Best Time to Visit The appropriate time to visit the breathtaking hill-station is between the months of October and February, which happens to be the winter season or between the months of March and June which is the summer season. This place experiences soothing summers and chilly winters with the temperature dropping to even minus 1 degree Celsius. How to Reach? Gaggal Airport is the nearest airport to Mcleodganj, Dharamshala which is about 20 km away and the Pathankot Railway Station which happens to be 90 km away. By Air The airport is well connected with cities like Chandigarh, Kullu, and Delhi. Upon reaching the airports, travelers can book taxi cabs, or buses to reach their drop locations. It usually requires an hour to get into McLeodGanj. By Road A large number of private buses followed by state buses operate within the city. The distances between Delhi and McLeod are 500 km on-road, with Dharamshala it is about 20 km and with Chandigarh, it is 250 k. You can also access the luxury Himachal Pradesh Tourism buses from the Himachal Bhawan. By Train The Pathankot Railway Station is about 90kms away from the city. Famous trains available for Pathankot from Delhi are Uttar Sampark, Jammu Mail, etc. Interesting Facts and Trivia • McLeod Ganj experiences a blissful environment and atmosphere. • You can experience and enjoy the echoing from nature and mountains. • The Tibetan Culture and New Year are worth celebrating. • Mcleodganj is also coined as the Upper Dharamshala. • The Nawrojee and Sons General Store is Dharamshala's oldest shop, dating to some 152 years old, which is presently a heritage site and is also famous for German-design lamps, England warriors shoelaces, and toffees. • Hanuman Ka Tibba, Dhauladhar Range’s highest peak, is also McLeodganj's highest trekking destination. Nearby Attractions Some of the famous nearby tourist attractions from Mcleodganj, Dharamshala that deserve a visit are: • Masroor Temple- Popular for its intricate Nagra style of architecture • Bhagsu Falls- Can be chanced upon for its divine scenery. • St. John’s Church- Known for its architecture made with Rock Solid. • Indrahar Pass- This one owes your visit for being an offbeat destination. • Sunset Point-You can cherish the enthralling sights here. Few other attractions are Kareri Lake, Dharamkot, Kangra Fort, Banglamukhi Temple, Nobullingka Institute, Naam Art Gallery, Tibetan Market, Minkiani Pass, Maharana Pratap Sagar Lake etc.
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The small village in the lush valley of Manali, Kothi is truly a much-needed break into the lap of nature from the boiling plains. During the older times, trekkers used to camp here while crossing Rohtang Pass. Well, it is possible in today’s time too. Otherwise, simply reach Kothi as a normal tourist! Description: It is situated on the way to Rohtang Pass, on the highway of Leh. It remains almost 13500 ft above the sea level. This picturesque village is only 15 km away from the town of Manali which is filled with unforgettable views of Beas River, snow-capped hilltops and the Himalayan range. The highlight of this village is the sheer and profound valley through which Beas flows dancing all over. This is why Kothi has been featured in various Bollywood movies as well! Traveler Tips: As this village is just a few minutes drive from the happening Manali town, tourists normally do not prefer staying here but they drive through the place especially during the winter for watching snow-covered Kothi. This is why you will never find Kothi village, Manali cluttered everywhere. Things to Do: Kothi offers more than a charming Himalayan village which allures the tourists with its charm. This place is worth of visit for a few planned treks, a relaxing stay, and a floating walk. Apart from these, you can also enjoy paragliding through its skies. And, if you are here during the snowfall, you will be allowed to do skiing too. And, most importantly, if you want a great scenery through the snows except for having the views of other hotels and restaurants from the window of your room, you should head to Kothi village, Manali. Best Time to Visit: Kothi has a cool to pleasant weather almost every time of the year. Temperature normally starts falling after monsoon here. In the winter, i.e. during December – February, Kothi experiences moderate to heavy snowfall. Thus, this village attracts more tourists especially this time. Heavy snowfall can create 2-3 ft snow-covering through the valley. Thus, most of the snow activities happen this time. You can also visit Kothi during the summer, i.e. between March and June. Zorbing and paragliding activities happen this time. How to Reach? • By air – Bhuntar airport is closest to Kothi. It is almost 64 km away from the village. Regular flights fly between Delhi, Bhuntar and Chandigarh. • By train – Chandigarh railway is the nearest broad gauge station nearby Kothi which is almost 313 km away. After reaching the railway station you can ride on a local bus to Manali or hire a taxi to reach your destination. Una of Himachal is another railhead closest to this village which is connected with Pathankot. • By bus – Himachal State Transport Services run efficient bus services between Delhi and Manali. In fact, traveling by bus is probably the most affordable way to reach Kothi. Nearby Attractions: • Kullu • Manali • Rohtang Pass • Solang Valley This mountain-locked tiny hamlet is best enjoyed during the winters as various snow activities take place this time. But you can plan your trip to Kothi village, Manali whenever you think is the best time for you! I hope the blog will be a help for you plan your trip according to your way. You can also book your trip through a travel agent.
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Just 500 meters away from the bus stand of Kullu, Sultanpur Palace is a major tourist attraction here which is also at a walkable distance from Raghunathji Temple. The Palace holds huge historical importance. It used to be the residence of Kullu's former royalties. The majestic beauty of the surrounding intensifies the environment of the place. Traveler Tips: • The descendants of the former rulers of this place stay here. So, you need to get an entry permit for entering the premises of the Sultanpur Palace and the garden area. • Wear comfy footwear as you need to walk a lot! Things to Do: • Revel in the artworks and their inner expressions which literally dominate the majesty of the interiors. • Marvel at the sophisticated architecture of the palace. • Enjoy the natural scenic beauty surrounding the palace. • You can make special requests to the chefs of the palace to make some authentic and tasty food for you. • You can do some shopping at the local bazaar to get some souvenirs for your home. • If you are an adventure-mind, you can look for rafting and trekking options. Availability of guides: There is no guide facility available here. But booking your trip with a travel agency can help you. They will look after the permission matters too. History: The Sultanpur Palace, Manali was previously called the Rupi Palace. It is said that Raja Jagat Singh constructed the palace in 1660. But during a heavy earthquake that happened in 1905, the palace got demolished. The structure was rebuilt again with a similar style and design of the original palace near the ruins of the previous palace. Architecture: The palace is built using a simple architecture which is a combination of colonial and Pahari styles. The gigantic entry gates of the palace were built by massive wooden logs. The interior of the Sultanpur Palace is perfectly designed in a remarkable manner. It has some gorgeous well-preserved wall paintings of which there is a large number of exclusive miniature paintings that are worth to watch. The specialty of these paintings is there is no human element is present in them. Those include the scenic backgrounds of Kullu – Manali. Best Time to Visit: From the end of summer to the beginning of winter, the weather remains milder here. So the best time to reach here is between March and October. Winter here is freezing. You can experience snowfall this time. Roadblocks are a common incident every day. How to Reach? Kullu-Manali is well connected via roadways with North India. Himachal Pradesh tourism runs HRTC bus services which are the most cost-effective way to reach Kullu. The Sultanpur Palace, Manali is only half kilometer away from the bus stand of Kullu. The location is easily accessible through any local transport like buses, auto-rickshaws, cabs, etc. Interesting Facts and Trivia About: • The miniature paintings of the palace have hidden stories inside them. It puts stress on the significance of life when humans lived in the villages. • The massive entrance gates of the palace include a sculpture of Lord Ganesha as a welcoming gesture for the tourists. Nearby Attractions: • Raghunathji Temple • Bijli Mahadev Temple • Kheer Ganga • Bekhli Mata Temple • Kullu Valley
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Known for its hot water spring, Tattapani, Shimla has now become a very popular tourist attraction for people who are traveling to the summer capital of India, Shimla. In fact, the name of the place- Tattapani, also means hot water. The hot water spring in the region is spread across a vast area of one square kilometer. Many people even believe that the hot water of the sulphur spring has magical healing properties and a dip in the water can cure your body of many diseases. It is located at a distance of around 51 kilometer from the capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla. People also visit here to visit the holy shrine of Lord Shiva called the Shiv Goofa. Things to Do There are many activities that one can indulge in when they are visiting the beautiful quaint little town of Tattapani. The hot water sulphur spring that is situated near the banks of the River Sutlej is the most popular place where people love to visit. People go for river rafting as well in this river when they are visiting Tattapani. Another cool activity that people like to indulge in when they are visiting the Tattapni area is to go for trekking and camping. One can also try a hand at fishing that takes places at the banks of River Sutlej. Best Time to Visit Tattapani is a beautiful hilly hamlet that is flocked by tourists from all parts of the country all year round. However, if you want to know the best time to visit here, it depends on what you are actually looking for in the visit. If you are looking for snow, you can visit between the months of December end and February middle. If you are planning to visit here, there could actually be no better season to visit Tattapani than the winter season. The temperature during winters in Tattapani can get down to sub-zero degrees. How to Reach Tattapani near Shimla is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. Those visiting the queen of hill station Shimla, make sure to visit the beautiful hilly hamlet. It is pretty easy to reach here once you have reached Shimla. You can reach Shimla via buses that ply from all the nearest cities like Delhi. Shimla also has an airport where flights from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, etc., regularly fly. You can also take the Kalka train to reach the beautiful hill station. Once you are in the capital city of Shimla, you can easily take any bus or even hire a cab to reach Tattapani. Many taxi drivers in Shimla are also ready to take you to the beautiful town of Tattapani. Nearby Attractions Majority of the tourists visiting the Tattapani are the tourists who have come for a holiday in Shimla. All adventure seekers, nature lovers, and even the nature photographers love to visit the Tattapani area to explore nature at its best. Some other places to visit in Tattapani are Shiva Cave, Mahunag, and Adventure Park.
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The Mall is definitely the lifeline of the town. It is the main street of Shimla. Mall Road centers all the tourist activities. Time has changed and to encourage tourism, the colonial buildings are overrun by cheesy shops and boutiques. Today, it houses many showrooms, restaurants, cafes, emporiums, and shops. Local people and tourists love here doing lots of shopping! Traveler Tips: • If you are visiting Shimla during summer, keep light cotton with you at the sun is scorching at day time. But the evenings may require light jackets with drops in temperature. • If you are visiting Shimla during winter, carry heavy jackets and thermals with you. Boots and gloves are essential to avoid snow. • If you are not comfortable on windy roads, keep motion-sickness pills with you. • Keep sunglasses and sunscreen lotions in both seasons. Things to do: Tourists love to spend hours of time just strolling around the Mall. You will enjoy the hustle-bustle of the tourists and locals there. The Mall Road, Shimla is a great place in the town to catch the magnificent views of the entire snow-covered valley and hilltops beneath it. Enjoy the local street food and softies. Are you a shopaholic? Are you an expert in bargaining things? You can find a range of vendors on the street sides who are selling several funky apparel, junk jewelry, gadgets, latest accessories, footwear, and many more good-looking and useful items. Tourists also love watching the sunset here from a vantage point. Take some selfies in the sunset background and keep it framed forever! History: The British government first established the concepts of summer gateways or hill retreats in colonial India. And, then, the small hill town Shimla was the blue-eyed kid! Due to its majestic appearance and cool climate, it was declared as the authorized summer capital of British India. At a height of 2205 meters, Shimla was much sought-after break from the heat-melted plains. The scenario is similar to dates. Continuing from its colonial past, Shimla is still covered with dense oak and pine forests. And, this hill town’s natural beauty and cultural heritage are reflected in the Mall Road, Shimla. Festival: Shimla exhibits its cultural tradition through various colorful festivals and fairs. All of them are celebrated here at different times of the year and encourage more tourist visits. Best time to visit: The Mall Road, Shimla is popular among the tourists in all the three seasons of the year. Summer (March- June) – During summer the temperature here remains around 25°C. June is the hottest when the maximum temperature bar strikes 30°C. Monsoon (July – October) – Rains on the hills has always attracted visitors. During August, the Mall remains wettest. Winter (November – February) – During winter weather remains cold and crisp here. During December, the Mall remains covered with snow and become the wonderland! How to Reach? • By air – Jabarhatti airport is nearest to Shimla. But due to altitude restrictions, commercial planes do not fly here. You need to fly to Chandigarh airport (115 km away) and then hire any private or public transport to reach here. • By road – Shimla is well-connected through roadways with Delhi and Chandigarh. Hire any bus services run by Himachal Road Transport Corporation or hire private cabs to reach here. • By train – Kalka – Shimla toy train is definitely the most charming way to reach here. Kalka is connected through railways with Delhi and Chandigarh. Nearby Attractions: There are various tourist hot spots nearby the Mall Road including Town Hall, Gaiety Theatre and Kali Bari Temple. The Mall Road, Shimla remains most crowded during the winter season. The crowd includes mostly families and honeymooners in maximum numbers. You will surely enjoy dining, shopping, and sightseeing here in any season.
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Located at a distance of 5 km away from Ridge, Annandale in Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) is a beautiful attraction for holidaying and rejuvenating. It is a scenic spot in Shimla replete with a sporty golf club, mesmerizing vistas, an Indian Army museum, a Cactus museum and a tranquil ambiance to spellbind you with. This place has been a playground for the British in the Pre-independence period. Now it is used to organize parades, army activities, sports like cricket, Golf, Polo, etc., picnics, festivals like Dussehra. It has been a popular attraction for polo and cricket lovers. This spot gives a picturesque view of Shimla city and has been attracting tourists from all over the world to explore it and the surroundings as well. Things To Do Here: • The Annandale Golf Course is a paradise for Golf lovers. The opulent and expansive course amidst the gorgeous natural landscape is sure to be a. unforgettable experience. • The Annandale playground is a preferred place for the Indian Army to organize their parades and social events. • While here, one should not miss exploring the fascinating natural landscape of Annandale. The route to Annandale passes through a dense forest and makes exploring this area on the foothills of the Himalayas a peaceful and rejuvenating experience for all visitors. • The Indian Army Museum of Annandale is a place where one will come across many artifacts and stories of victory and sacrifice of our brave army. The museum contains a collection of uniforms, flags, ammunition, weapons, and information about all the regiments of the Indian army. • A Cactus Museum is erected near the Indian Army Museum at Annandale. It houses a variety of cactus brought from significant cactus growing regions in the world. This museum is never being missed while exploring Annandale. • There is a cafe that serves a variety of local snacks that visitors will love to have after exploring Annandale. Picnickers often stop here for a while to have a bite and then proceed with their plan for the day. Interesting Facts And Trivia About: • Nestled at an altitude of 622 ft. above the sea level, Annandale is one of those attractions in Shimla where you can look down at the Shimla city from Annandale’s highest peak which is filled with snow-clad mountains and awe-inspiring vistas. • With the trail of trees amidst Annandale including deodar trees, oak trees, etc., one will find the luxuriant greenery here. This place is rich in flora and fauna which is taken care of by the Indian Army carefully. • It is situated in the suburban hamlet of Kaithu. West Shimla. It was named by Captain Charles Pret Kennedy, one of the initial visitors of this place. • It has been an important hotspot for Anglo-Indian sports games and the region is also utilized as heliport of Shimla. Traveler Tips: • The Indian Army maintains the attraction over here. Hence, one will observe them extremely disciplined. • One should not enter the restricted areas. • A café is made within Annandale. So, one does not have to worry about food during a visit to this place. Picnickers can carry their picnic baskets along with them, but they need to maintain cleanliness and hygiene. • Visitors should wear sports shoes while visiting the playground. Best Time To Visit: Shimla has pleasant weather in any month but visitors should avoid visiting Annandale during monsoons as they will not able to soak themselves in the lovely ambiance of the place. The place is best explored between the months of October and February as the weather stays cool throughout the day and the region also experiences snowfall making it an unforgettable vacation. This place also often frequented by visitors during the summer season as the climate remains pleasant allowing them exploring the place at leisure and playing sports. How To Reach Here: Annandale is located just at a distance of about 5 Km away from the Ridge and 2 Km away from the Shimla Railway Station. Hence one can either walk or hire an auto-rickshaw or cab to reach the place. Nearby Attractions: While visiting Annandale, visitors can also explore some other places of interest around the place such as Ram Temple, Mark church, Kali Bari Temple, Kalka Shimla Toy Train, Mall Road, Tattapani, Chail, The Ridge, Kufri, Shimla Christ Church, Jakhu Temple, Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, Himachal State Museum, Himalayan Bird Park, Shimla Reserved Forest, etc. Additional Information For Visitors: There is no entry fee for Annandale. Tourists can visit the Army Museum between 10 am to 2 pm and 3 pm to 5 pm. The museum is closed on Monday. The playground and the golf course can be visited between 10 am to 5 pm.
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The small hill town Chindi lies at an altitude of 1850 meters above the sea level. The whole town remains covered with picturesque little hamlets, scenic apple orchards and a wide panoramic view of its surroundings. It is definitely one of the most beautiful hill stations of Himachal. It often remains unexplored to most of the tourists comes to visit Shimla but it is well connected with roadways to other parts of Himachal. It is also having good accommodations and a few small markets across the town. Description: Chindi is situated in the Karsog valley of Himachal. It is around 94 km away from the ‘The Summer capital of India’- Shimla. The enter hill city is covered with pine and deodar woods and apple orchards scattered here and there. You can spot a number of sacred temples in the locality of Chindi which are popular tourist attractions here. Traveler Tips: • Though summer is mild here, you may require light woolens at nights. • In winter, the temperature may fall below 0 °C in Chindi. So, carry heavy woolen jackets, boots, woolen socks, and thermals. Things to do: With the crisscrossed streamlines across the valley and green carpet fields of assorted grains and vegetables, Chindi, Shimla is one of the most picturesque spots of H.P. You must frame the thick dark forests, orchards and fertile floors rise towards the snow laded Himalayan peaks. You can return your home with an exclusive collection of organically grown lentils, crisp and heavenly tasty apples and exotic vegetables. Architecture: The ancient architecture of the old tiny villages is just picture perfect. Every age-old temple is legendary here and depicts the local cultural heritage. It also shows their outstanding building skills. Best Time to visit: Well, you can visit Chindi, Shimla at any time of the year. • During Summer (March – June): It is the most popular summer retreat among its worldwide tourists. During summer, the temperature may reach the 30°C bar. • During Monsoon (July – September): Nature lovers often visit Chindi during the monsoon as it is truly lovely watching rainfall on the hills. But as landslides often happen this season due to heavy rainfall this is not the advised time for visiting Chindi. • During winter (October – February): Snow-cladded Chindi is the hot favorite among the global tourists. Visitors come here for watching the snowfall. Temperature goes down to -2 °C. How to Reach? • By air – Jubarhati is the nearest airport to Shimla which is only 23 km away. Regular flights are available on the Jubarhati – Delhi & Chandigarh route. After arriving at the airport, hire a cab to reach your destination. • By bus – HRTC (Himachal Roadways Transport Corporation) run buses are available towards Shimla from any parts of North India. You can also book tickets for private bus services on this route. Online bookings are available. • By train – Shimla railway station is almost 87 km away from Chindi. Shimla is connected Kalka by a narrow 96 km long toy train rail route. Toy trains are definitely a major attraction for reaching Shimla. Reach Kalka by traveling on any trains from Delhi or Chandigarh. Nearby Attractions: • Karsog • Temple of Mamleshwara Mahadev • Kunhoo Dhar • Mahunag • Pangana • Kamrunag • Ardhanarishwara temple • Temple of Aledi Mahadev • Bhim rock • Nag dhamooni • Churag temple • Palinag, Nalagali • Chatri So, if you are in Shimla and want one or two day break from the crowd there, you can visit Chindi which is just a few kilometers away from Shimla. It is definitely a visual treat! The weather here is almost the same as the capital of Himachal but is less crowded. You will get a number of options for enjoying with your family here.
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The stunning snow-clad mountains, lush greenery, and mesmerizing lakes of Shimla can make anyone fall in love with the place. The timeless beauty of the place attracts scores of visitors every year. It is also popular by the name queen of hill stations. The land captivated the British so much that they decided to make it as their summer capital. Among the various beautiful places that have emerged as favorite of tourists, the name of Shimla Glen cannot be ruled out. Shimla Glen has been surrounded by heavy forests of various types of beautiful trees. These varieties largely include oak, pine, and deodar trees. Every year a large number of tourists from all across the globe visit Shimla Glen to have some peaceful time with their loved ones. They love to enjoy the raw beauty of Shimla, clean air, and majestic hills. Shimla Glen has been situated very close to Summer Hill. From Summer Hill, you can cover the distance to reach Shimla Glen by walk. Shimla Glen offers tourists a lovely hiking trail through which they can explore the calm life of the place. It has emerged as one of the highly popular sightseeing places. For families and children, it is must-visit spot to have some leisure time from the hustle and bustle of noisy city life. It has become quite famous for its tranquil setting. You will get a perfect break from your stereotypical daily routine and enjoy the amazing atmosphere of the place to rejuvenate your mind and body. You will also witness the splendid views of the nearby valleys and the sight is going to leave you breathless. It is interesting to note that Shimla Glen has been positioned at a huge height of 1830 meters above sea level. The place offers visitors the captivating Chadwick Waterfall. You will be left besotted by the stunning beauty of a reserve forest that boasts a huge collection of animals and birds. You will also like the enchanting streams when you visit the place. Shimla Glen offers something for people of all age groups who want a break from their boring monotonous lives. Traveler Tips: If you are traveling to Shimla Glen in summer, you may pack light and airy clothes. While if you are visiting it during winter months, you need to carry woolen clothes along as the temperature may fall sharply during night time. Winters may get harsh in Shimla, so make sure you have your sweaters, jackets, socks, caps, etc. Availability: You do not have to shell out any money in the form of entry fee when you visit Shimla Glen. It remains open for tourists from 6 in the morning to 6 in the evening throughout the week. Best Time to Visit: You may visit the place throughout the year as it does not restrict the entry of travelers throughout the year. However, you may avoid your visit during the rainy season as there is a constant risk of soil erosion or landslide. And, water also flows at a fast rate. These factors may pose a risk to your safety. The best months to visit Shimla Glen are from March to May and September to November. How to Reach? Shimla Glen is located at a mere distance of 4 km from The Ridge in Shimla. You will find great connectivity through the road and the place is easily accessible from various parts of the city. If you are traveling from the train, you may take the NH22 route to reach your destination. It is located 8 km away from Shimla Railway Station. You will also find many cabs services and local taxis to reach the place. There are many public operated buses by the HPSTC department to reach Shimla Glen. Nearby Attractions There are several popular attractions that you may cover while holidaying in Shimla Glen. Some of them are- 1. Chris Church: This has emerged as one of the best attractions of Shimla Glen that offers a unique charm to visitors. It showcases a neo-gothic style of architecture with an amazing history. For history buffs and archeological lovers, the place has so much to offer. It has gained the status of one of the popular landmarks of the place and located just 3.1 km from Shimla Glen. 2. Summer Hill: People who are eagerly looking for a break from their day-to-day lives may think of visiting the beautiful spot Summer Hill. You will enjoy the mesmerizing landscapes and the snow-capped mountains. Summer Hill is located at a mere distance of 2 km from Shimla Glen. 3. Mall Road: Mall Road is hugely popular among tourists. The place offers mystique beauty that leaves tourists awe-struck. You will find several shops in the lanes from where you may purchase some local stuff for your near and dear. It also houses Lakka Bazaar, Tibetan Market, and various other local stalls. It takes 3.4 km to reach Mall Road from Shimla Glen. 4. Jakhoo Temple: The temple is popular among Lord Hanuman devotees who make it a point to visit it and offer their prayers. Jakhoo temple provides a peaceful and holy environment for tourists. The temple is located in the middle of beautiful hills. If you want to visit the famous temple of Shimla Glen, it will take you approximately 4.9 km.
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Surrounded by lush green forest and flowering plants, Vetal hill, Pune is known by several names such as Vetal Tekdi, Hanuman Tekdi, MIT Tekdi, and Pashan Tekdi. Touted as one of the highest points in Maharashtra, this beautiful place offers a panoramic view of the entire Pune city. Enriched with a wide range of flora and fauna, Vetal hill is one of the popular attractions in Pune. Blessed with serenity and pristine natural beauty, Vetal hill is very popular among birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, trekkers, and photographers. It is home to a diverse range of bird species like peacocks, bulbul, Indian Robin, oriental white-eye, sunbirds, and many more. Offering a splendid panoramic view of the surroundings from the top, Vetal hill is an ideal place for a family picnic or to spend time with your loved ones amidst nature. Situated at an elevation of 2600 ft, Vetal hill is dotted with a small manmade lake and a temple built on top of the hill. Traveler tips: • Carry drinking water and snacks with you. • Although the hill is accessible from many directions, it is easier to climb from Pashan (Panchavati). • Try to return from the trek before night falls, as there are no street lights. • For safety, it would be good to avoid climbing the hill post dark(after 6 pm). • Carry your camera to shoot splendid landscapes from the top. • Use insect repellents to stave off bugs and insects. • Carry a hat to protect yourself from the scorching sun rays. • If visiting Vetal hill in monsoon, carry a raincoat. Famous for: Hiking, Trekking, Photography, Nature, Adventure Opening time: Although the hill is open at all times of the day, it is advisable to visit from 5 am – 6 pm. Visit duration: 2-3 hours Entry fee: Free Things to do • Enjoy a leisure stroll or nature walk in this beautiful place and see colorful butterflies fluttering and birds chirping around. • Have an early morning trek to Vetal hill, the highest point of Pune, and witness the splendid view of sunrise. • Cycling is also a popular activity here, so you can try that as well. • Adventure enthusiasts can trek up to the peak of the hill as there are well-maintained trails leading to the top. • Vetal hill is very popular for bird watching, you can spot many migratory birds along with francolins, peacocks, robins, bulbuls, etc. in this quaint place. • Brimming with tranquil neutral beauty, this place is ideal for photography. • Besides, Vetal temple, you can also pay a visit to the very famous Chaturshringi temple situated on Senapati Bapat Road. How to reach? • By rail: Located at a distance of 10 km, Pune junction is the nearest railway station from Vetal hill. One can board a bus or hire a cab to Vetal hill which from the Pune railway station. • By road: With Pashan Road on one side and S B Road on the other, Vetal hill is easily accessible by car. If coming in your own car, take the Paud road as there is parking space alongside the road. There are two spacious parking spaces on top of the hill also. • By bus: Get down at Pashan and take the trekking route to reach the top of the hill. You can start climbing to Vetal hill from multiple trekking points such as Kothrud (Paud Road), Chhaturshringi, MIT college road, or Pashan side. Best time to visit To witness the beauty of the hill at its best with myriad shades of green everywhere, visit Vetal hill in the monsoon months, between July to November. As in summer, the landscape becomes dry and arid, it is not recommended to plan a trip to Vetal hill, Pune at this time. The best time to visit the hill in the day is in the early morning when the air is fresh and crisp. Nearby attraction: The following are some of the popular attractions that you can add to your itinerary after visiting Vetal hill in the early morning. • Chattushringi Mandir • Lal Mahal • Durga Tekdi • Pashan lake • Matoba templeGram Sanskruti Udyan Village Park • Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum • Pataleshwar Cave Temple • Pune tribal museum • Sri Balaji temple Trivia: Spread over an area of around 11 km, Vetal hill is maintained by the forest department of India. There is an observation deck at the top of the hill constructed by the Indian Forest Department, which offers an awe-inspiring view of the surrounding landscape Most of this hilly region is controlled by the Indian defense force. Vetal hill is home to ARAI (Automotive Research Association of India). Vetal hill has been named after a temple situated at the top. The temple is dedicated to the Goddess Vetala. Called the lungs of Pune city, Vetal tekdi or Vetal hill is surely a must-visit place during your trip to Pune. With enchanting landscapes and surreal beauty of nature, Vetal hill, Pune will leave you in awe for sure.
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Gifted with brisk keen, clear fragrant, and pure exhilarating air, Kaza is an amazingly place that is situated on the left bank of the Spiti River in the majestic valley of Himachal Pradesh with the name, Lahaul and Spiti Valley. Kaza boasts of an altitude of about 12,500 ft. and is a perfect place to be for all peace and/or trek lovers. Standing stout amidst the high mountains, crystal clear river & streams, and barren landscapes, Kaza is spread over around the green sceneries and pastures. Courtesy to all these factors, Kaza, Lahaul & Spiti Valley is considered to be one of the marvellous hill stations of India. Highlights: Kaza, Lahaul & Spiti Valley is sectioned into two halves namely, the old Kaza and the new Kaza. The old Kaza is also known as the Kaza Khas and the new Kaza is also known as the Kaza Soma. While in the former, one can lookout for king's palace, monasteries, gompas, and ancient buildings, in the latter, there are government offices, hotels as well as restaurants. In order to get clam and quirinal glimpse of the lovely mountain terrains and pristine locals, there are a number of tourists that come down to Kaza to enjoy their holidays. One can also go for several adventurous activities at the place namely, trekking, mountaineering, so on and so forth. In addition to this, it is worth mentioning that there are Kaza’s three most popular trails that connect it to the beautiful nearby villages of the region that are plunged in a rich natural beauty of the valley. Tourists can also take pleasures of ancient and exquisite monasteries and gompas, which are a perfect exemplar of Kaza’s rich cultural heritage. Best Time to Visit: The eye-stunner and amazingly beautiful Kaza is a treat to your eyes. The best time to enjoy the beauty of the place is in summers for during this time one can enjoy the place to the core without any hassles. During the months of winter, the temperature of Kaza is quite severe so much so that it plunges down to sub-zero levels. Staying at Kaza is going to be a lifetime experience for all the travellers and there is no doubt about that, we bet! Traveller Tips: Kaza located in Lahaul and Spity Valley is one of the most ideal places for all those who love camping on the treks and torus. The place also offers guides, porters and one has to take permits to do trek at the arena. How to Reach: For those who are planning to travel to Lahaul and Spity Valley, the nearest railway station happens to be that of Chandigarh. From here, you can reach Lahaul through Manali and Spiti through Shimla by through driving. The drive would take you for over 5 and 9 hours, respectively. Nearby Attractions: For those who are visiting Lahaul and Spity Valley, one can also visit places such as Kye Monastery, Kunzum Pass, Dhankar Gompa, Dhankar Fort, Pin Valley National Park, Tabo Monastery, Kibber, Langza Valley, Dhankar Lake, Tabo Cave, Kungri Monastery, Chandratal Lake, Lhalung Monastery, Udaipur of Himachal, Losar, Komik, Darcha, Suraj Tal, and Baralacha La to name a few.
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Widely acknowledged to be the 'Ajanta of the Himalayas,' Tabo Monastery is counted amidst the most amazingly prominent monasteries on the land of Lahaul & Spiti Valley. The Tabo Monastery, Lahaul & Spiti Valley was initiated long long back (when we say so, we literally mean it!) in the 996 A.D. Tabo Monastery stands strong on the chilly, sterile and wobbly desert of Tabo valley at an altitude of 3050 meters above sea level. How amazing it sounds, no? The tranquil and unscathed charm of the place has well-maintained the splendid culture, traditions as well as heritage of Buddhism through the passage of centuries. There is no denying the fact that people travelling to Tabo Monastery is definitely going to enjoy the beauty and charm of this place. Don’t believe us? Read the upcoming paras and you would be urged to pack your bags and travel to the destination! Highlights: Tabo Monastery has a complicated architecture of the temple and is touted as one of the most treasured national historical temple of the country. Tabo Monastery, Lahaul & Spiti Valley is currently handled by the Archaeological Survey of India. It is also worth mentioning here that the temple of Tabo Monastery have some of the mind-blowing collection of manuscripts and thangkas (Buddhist scroll paintings), frescos, exquisite statues in stuccos, as well as murals that showcases the chronicles from the time of the Mahayana Buddhist Pantheon. In addition to this, the temple of Tabo Monastery also has Assembly hallis, which is considered to be one of the most significant parts of the entire arena. The Assembly hallis represents one of the five spiritual sons of Adibuddha, four-fold figure of Vairocana, wall paintings repersent the life of Buddha, cave paintings, and so on and so forth. Best Time to Visit: Now if you are wondering as to the best time to visit Tabo Monastery, Lahaul & Spiti Valley, then it is from the months of May till October. The reason behind the same is the fact that the temperature during these months is quite pleasant all throughout the day and a little chill during the night time. In addition to this, during these months of the year, roads such as Rohtang Pass and the Kumzum La Pass are also open, which will help you to reach your final destination. How to Reach: One can reach Tabo Monastery, Lahaul & Spiti Valley by train and the nearest station happens to be that of Kalka railway station. The Kalka railway station is for over 452 kms away from the Tabo Monastery. On the other hand, for tourists who are travelling via air, the nearest airport happens to be the Kullu airport that is at a distance of 294 kms from Tabo Monastery. Nearby Attractions: For those who are visiting Tabo Monastery, Lahaul & Spiti Valley, they can also visit places such as Darcha, Suraj Tal, Kunzum Pass, Kye Monastery, Pin Valley National Park, Kampa, Kibber, Langza Valley, Dhankar Lake, Tabo Cave, Lhalung Monastery,Kungri Monastery, Dhankar Gompa, Dhankar Fort, Chandratal Lake, Udaipur of Himachal, Losar, Komik, and Baralacha amongst many others.
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The Kunzum Pass is the motorable passes of India at the peak. It has a breathtaking sight to behold. It works as a joining link between the Lahaul Valley and the Spiti valley and at a distance of 122 km from Manali. This pass further leads to Kaza town. Kunzum Pass is a heaven for photographers as they can capture beautiful glaciers, snowcapped peaks and the valley beyond. All of them altogether offer stunning views for photography. It is sited in the beautiful state Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of 15,060 feet above sea level. Best time to visit Kunzum pass To visit Kunzum Pass, it is better to plan between the second weeks of June to September. But August is not the time as the pass remains closed during monsoons. During winters, from 15th of October to march, the Kunzum Pass remains temporarily closed due to heavy snowfall. One should not plan their visit during August due to slippery routes and expected landslides. Weather Report • It remains shut during winters due to snowfall (end October to March). • It remains closed during monsoons due to rains and chances of landslides (July-August). • Tuesdays are noted as maintenance days, so no tourists are allowed to cross Rohtang Pass this day. How to reach Kunzum pass? By Road: Take HRTC buses or hire private taxis from Manali to travel to Kunzum Pass. The journey time from Manali to Kunzum Pass is around 6-7 hours. By Air: Airport is in Bhuntar town situated 170 km from Kunzum Pass. It is almost 50 km from Manali. So you can take buses or cars from the airport to Manali as well as the pass. By Train: The closest railway station to Kunzum Pass is the small scale Joginder Nagar railway station. It is located at a distance of 50 km. You can easily hire taxis to Kunzum Pass from there. The fascinating stories about this palace: One of the thrilling features of the kunzum pass is the fifteen hairpin turns throughout the way. There is a Kunzum Devi Temple on the Kunzum Pass. The dominant goddess, Goddess Kunzum Devi is a reincarnation of Goddess Durga and is the guardian of the pass as well as the travellers. Visitors travelling through the Kunzum Pass usually stop first by the temple to pray and look for blessings of the deity for a harmless journey. People follow a tradition of visiting the temple and a complete rotation of it in the vehicle before riding Kunzum pass. There are various Buddhist monasteries and gompas around the temple. These cloisters with painted prayer flags give an enthralling view to the visitors. You can also hear the sounds of bells and prayers of the temple and gompas that resound the entire valley. Hotels & Stay There is no accommodation facilities or hotels to stay in the Kunzum Pass. You can find a room at a distance of 12 km at Batal or at Losar towards Lahaul Spiti district which is 18 km away. Furthermore, the pass also does not have any shops or eateries. General Information About Kunzum Pass • Kunzum La or Kunzum Pass is doorway to Lahaul and Spiti valley. • The pass gives a mesmerising view of Bara-Sigri, which is known as the second-longest glacier in the world, Spiti valley, and Chandrabhaga Range. • The area is dedicatedly influenced by Buddhist, which is noticeable by the occurrence of chortens and prayer flags. • The Kunzum pass is also known for its exciting 9 km Trek to Chandratal. • It is not as congested as Rohtang Pass as a considerable number of the tourist visit Rohtang Pass only and gets back to Manali. This is how there usually a big traffic jam at Rohtang Pass. • It is better to drive straight ahead to this pass, leaving all the traffic behind for a more serene quiet experience. Nearby attraction 1. Kunzum Mata Mandir • Kunzum Devi temple is a famous tourist attraction, and a massive number of tourists visit it on their way and seek sanctifications for safe travel through the rocky terrain. • It is assumed that Goddess Kunjum resides in the temple and keeps a consistent eye over the pass and guards all the tourist and travellers in their journey through the rocky terrain. 2. Chandratal Lake Chandratal, or Moon Lake, got its name from its crescent shape. It is located at a distance of 7-8 km from Kunzum Pass and is a significant fascination for photographers and adventure seekers. 3. Key Monastery It is one of the largest and primogenital Monasteries in Spiti. Therefore it is the most famous tourist destination in this area. It also enshrines the idols of Buddha in Dhyana state and also has an assortment of old books and murals. 4. Pin Valley national park This national park is set amidst semi-frozen rivers in the Pin Valley. Being home to the rare species of famous Himalayan snow leopards it is visited by a considerable population daily. 5. Suraj Tal This is a lake, one should not miss while visiting Kunzum pass. Especially if you are into photography, Suraj Tal is one of the most dream-like and camera-friendly lakes. 6. Dhankar Lake At a distance of 5 km from the Dhankar monastery that sits treacherously on a rock face, lies the Dhankar Lake. It is sited on the other side of the mountain. It usually takes very less to reach the lake after a well-marked track from the monastery. Critical tips before booking package for Lahaul & Spiti Valley • It is important to pack lots of woollens to get rid of cold and getting sick situations in the chilling environment. • It is essential to carry all necessary medicines for altitude mountain illness. • Travellers who decide to visit Kunzum Pass in a car, it would be better to hire an SUV. • It is suggested to carry food numbers as there are no eateries in Kunzum Pass. • Travellers looking for bus services must confirm the state bus running status a day earlier.
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The majestic and scenic mountains overlooking the Spiti valley encompass a beautiful and serene village called the Langza village, Lahaul & Spiti Valley. In the heart of this village, you can find a number of ancient monasteries and several buildings that belong to the prehistoric era. The barren landscape, green pastures, and the majestic snow-clad mountains lining the entire village making it all a place worth visiting. Langza village is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places that you will visit in the entire Spiti valley region. Traveler Tips Located at an altitude of 4,400 meters above the sea level, travelers need to be very careful while traveling to the Langza village in Spiti. There are not more than 137 people inhabiting the entire village and you need to be sure that you carry all the essentials as there are not many shops or other things available there. It is also advised to all the travelers to carry warm clothes and get themselves checked by a doctor before traveling there. Things to Do The Statue of Buddha that overlooks the village is one of the biggest attractions that tourists can never miss out on. This is the biggest statue there and you would definitely want to click some pictures here. Apart from that, you can also find the ancient monasteries and take a stroll through them to find inner peace of mind and soul. You can also explore the mud houses that are constructed here as they interest many tourists who visit from the urban jungles. Many of the travelers also undertake treks to many high altitude lakes to get on an adventurous journey. There are several other things that you can do in Langza village. You can go on a spree of Langza village fossil hunting with the locals. You can also go for a walk around the farms in the village and even camp there. The photography lovers love to take some night shots of the village as they can capture the milky way galaxy with their naked eyes. For all those who want to get closer to the flora and fauna of the region, there is the beautiful and unique Chau Chau Nilda Peak to which they can trek and even spot the mighty white snow leopard. Best Time to Visit Langza Valley in Lahaul and Spiti is not a place that you can visit at any point in time. The winters in Langza can get very harsh as the temperature goes below as low as -20 degrees and that too completely dry. The entire region of Langza valley gets covered in a blanket of snow during the winters and it is hard to reach. Summers can get very hot as well because the altitude is extremely high. The intensity of sunlight that reaches you at such an altitude is very high. Even the monsoon season is not very right to visit the Langza valley as the roads the take you to this region experience a number of landslides. Keeping all these things in mind, it won’t be wrong to say that the best time to visit Langza valley largely depends on the route you are planning to take and the mode of transport you have chosen. How to Reach Langza village in the Lahaul & Spiti Valley is one of the remotest villages in India that cannot be reached easily. You need to reach Kaza first to reach the Langza. From Manali, to reach Kaza, you can take the HRTC bus and just an hour’s drive from Kaza, you can reach Langza. If you are coming from Shimla, you need to reach Reckong Peo and another bus to reach Kaza. Many people even love to walk the 16 kilometers long stretch to get some adventure. If you are driving, you can take different routes from Manali, Shimla, Chandigarh, and even Chandratal. However, it is imperative that you have the required experience to drive through the rough terrains of the Himachal mountains. If you want to travel by train, the nearest station you can get down at is Joginder Nagar. If you are coming by air, you can get down at the Chandigarh airport or the Shimla airport.
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All those who have been a thirst to experience the extreme terrains and get an adrenaline rush, there is certainly nothing more adventurous than touching the various mountain passes that India has. Whether you talk about the Rohtang Pass near Manali or the Baralacha La, Lahaul & Spiti Valley, reaching these passes is an adventure in itself. Also known as the Baralacha Pass, the Baralacha La is one of the highest mountain passes that is located at an altitude of 16,040 feet above the sea level. You need to travel through the Zanskar Range to reach this pass. This pass is around eight kilometers in length and is traveled by the people to reach from Lahaul & Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh to Ladakh in Leh Union Territory. You can find this pass when you are traveling from Manali to Leh or vice versa on the Leh-Manali Highway. Traveler Tips Not only is the Baralacha La pass one of the highest motorable passes, but it is also extremely cold out there. If you are planning to drive your own car or take a bike ride like most of the adventure seekers, make sure you have all the required gears, a well-maintained vehicle, and enough warm clothes. The roads can be pretty steep and rough. So, drive only if you have experience of driving in the mountains. You need to follow extreme caution when you are at this pass as the route is pretty difficult and dangerous. Things to Do Many people love to travel to Baralacha via their vehicle to capture the beauty of nature and soak in the scenic landscape that they witness when they reach here. However, Baralacha La trek is also a great activity that makes the thrill-seekers love to undertake. You can trek from Baralacha La for around a week to reach the beautiful Chandra Taal. Once you undertake this trek or spend some time here, you will easily spot many wildlife birds and animals. These could be marmot and pica. Birds like wagtails, horned lark, black redstart, lammergeier vulture, sand lark, snow pigeons, and choughs are also common here. Availability There is very heavy rainfall followed by extreme snowfall from the months of October to March and April. That’s why this pass is closed during the month for any transport and transition. You cannot travel this route during the winter months. History As per a general legend, it is believed that two lovers Chandra and Bhaga, children of Moon and Sun respectively. They wanted to marry each other and reached the Barachala Pass where they ran in opposite directions. They had to come back to each other and found their way pretty soon. Later, they got married. Best Time to Visit While winter months are inaccessible to the Baralacha La Pass, the best time to visit here in the summer months. You can reach there from the months of April to October. During these months, it’s not that snowing and the routes are also cleared. How to Reach The buses going from Manali to Leh will take you to the Baralachala Pass. This is probably the easiest way to reach the Baralacha La. Located at a distance of 242 kilometers from Manali, the roads are easy to access and buses will take you there in eight hours approx. Many people also like to drive their own cars or bikes to reach there. They can follow the Manali-Leh highway to reach the Baralacha La Pass in Lahaul & Spiti Valley. For travelers, you need a Rohtang Pass permit to cross the pass and drive forth to reach Baralacha La.
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The Lahaul & Spiti Valley is a picturesque destination that has numerous treasures within its vicinity and Komik is one of such places in the valley, which elegantly set amid the majestic mountain ranges in Himachal Pradesh. This tiny village is situated at about 18000 feet high above the sea level. Just at a distance of about 18 kilometers away from Kaza town, Komik is a quaint, unspoiled hamlet ideal for relaxing and rejuvenating vacation away from the hustle-bustle city life. Encircled by snow-covered mountain ranges and stunning valleys, Komik attracts innumerable tourists who want to get inundated in its incredible beauty and charm. Things To Do Here: • Besides exploring the delightful vistas of this scenic village, tourists can visit the famous Lundup Tsemo Gompa Buddhist Monastery in Komik village. According to the local villagers, this monastery houses the statue of Matrey Budda or future Buddha, who protects the people of Komik village from unforeseen situations and looks after the well-being of the villagers residing here. This monastery is also the highest motorable Buddhist Monastery in the world, frequented by numerous travel enthusiasts and bikers from all over the world. This stunning monastery is the 14th-century structure that contains a fortified castle built with slanted mud walls, portraying the scriptures, murals, and arts that are from the bygone era. • Visitors can enjoy the Chham dance or mask dance performed by Lamas. Besides, one can also enjoy various festivals hosted by the local villagers throughout the year. • Adventure seekers love to visit Komik village as the destination offers awesome trekking opportunities across the region. One can go for trekking here and experience the thrilling moments in the heavenly ambiance of Komik. Interesting Facts About Komik: • The hills of Komik village are rich in fossil life and there is a high possibility of finding numerous ancient fossils. • Locals in Komik are mostly shepherds and manage to earn their livelihood by rearing yaks, sheep, and horses. • The region is completely cut off from the rest part of the country due to extremely heavy snowfall during the winter season. • In winters local residents preserve enough foodstuffs for their survival in winters. As they avoid going outside from their houses during winters, they commonly use this period in preparing handicrafts like shawls, carpets, cap, jackets, paintings, etc. • People in Komik are very friendly and provide basic options for homestay to the tourists. So, very affordable accommodation can be found here in the small houses if visitors are up for an offbeat experience. Best Time To Visit Here: During the winter season, Komik experience heavy snowfall and the entire region covered with snow. The temperature during this period remains below the freezing point which is around -25 degrees Celsius to -35 degrees Celsius. So, the suitable time to visit Komik is during the summer season i.e. between months of May to September. How To Reach Here: The best way to reach Komik is by taking a private cab or taxi from Kaza town since there is no frequent and reliable government bus service available to this region. The taxis or cabs take nearly 45 minutes to reach Komik. Nearby Attractions: While visiting Komik, visitors can explore some of the other places of interests situated near Komik and in Lahaul & Spiti Valley such as Kye Monastery, Kunzum pass, Dhankar Gompa, Dhankar Fort, Pin Valley National Park, Tabo Monastery, Tabo Caves, Kaza, Kibber, Dhankar Lake, Langza Village, Chandratal Lake, Lhalung Monastery, Baralacha La, Darcha, Suraj Tal, Udaipur of Himachal, Losar and many more.
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All the cricket lovers have a few cricket grounds that they would love to visit. BE it the cricket stadium in Dharamshala, the Chail Cricket Grund, Chail, the Eden Gardens, Vankhede Cricket Stadium or any other stadium, these are not just places where cricket matches are held regularly. These have now become popular tourist spots where tourists love to spend some quality time and click some amazing pictures. One of the most popular cricket grounds that has become a famous tourist attraction is the Chail Cricket Ground. It is located in Chail, the summer capital of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh. The reason why it is so popular is because of its height. This cricket stadium is the highest cricket stadiums in the world and offers a panoramic view of the entire mountains and the nature.Things to DoWe all know the love that India shares for cricket. This is the most popular game in India and people are fanatically crazy about it. If you are also a cricket lover, this is the cricket ground that you should definitely visit at least once in your lifetime. Even if you are not a cricket lover, you can visit the stadium to experience the beauty of nature. It is fringed by tall deodar trees and has a picturesque view of the snow-capped mountains.HistoryThere is a lot of history associated with the Chail Cricket Ground. The Maharaja of Patiala, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh, built the stadium to keep up with his enthusiasm for cricket. He received this land as a token from the British Raj that appreciated him for his help in Anglo Nepalese War. He lived in the Chail Palace, which was his summer home. After he was restricted from entering the actual summer capital Shimla, he decided to build his own summer palace and on a hilltop, he built this beautiful cricket stadium. This was a site where the Maharaja would regularly play cricket with the British. It was later acquired by the Indian Army and today acts as a popular tourist attraction in Chail.Best Time to VisitIf you are considering to visit the Chail cricket ground, the best time to visit here is something that would certainly be on your mind. Chail has pleasant weather conditions all year round. Whether you are coming during summers or winter, you can enjoy your stay here to the fullest. During summers, you can find relief from the scorching summer heat owing to its breezy weather. During the winters, the hill station remains covered in snow and the weather also become quite chilly.How to ReachChail is just at a distance of 44 kilometers from the capital of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla. Hence, it is very easy to reach this beautiful hill station. Whether you are coming via your own car or want to hop on a bus to reach here, the road are well-paved and connected for that. If you are coming by air, you need to get down at the Shimla airport and from there you can hail a cab or a taxi and reach Chail. One can also take the Kalka-Shimla railway line and get down at Shimla to reach Chail from there.Nearby AttractionsApart from the Chail cricket ground, there are some beautiful tourist attractions that one can visit in this hill station. Some of the popular tourist spots in Chail are hail wildlife sanctuary, Palace Hotel, Kali Temple, and many other places. Just make sure that you at least reserve two days for your trip to Chail so you are able to cover all the popular tourist attractions.
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Bakrota Hills is a well-known tourist site in the hill town of Dalhousie. Situated in the Himalayan foothills, it is an astounding and must-see destination for the ones that adore Mother Nature. The rocky terrains of these hills are blessed with a serene ambiance where anyone can relax amidst nature. This place promises to cheer up the mood of all visitors.It Is Known For:-1) Bakrota Hills is a must-visit destination in Dalhousie hill town and is blessed with the beauty of nature in abundance.2) The backdrop of the snow-capped Himalayas makes this place appear even pleasing to eyes.3) The hills are dotted with the deodar, oak, and pine trees. When the sunlight filters through the shade of these trees and falls on the ground, it creates an alluring effect.4) There are several trails in these hills where nature enthusiasts can take a stroll & spend some good quality time with Mother Nature.5) Bakrota Hills serves as the apt place for the trekkers. These hills challenge the potential of all trek lovers that throng to this place from different cities.Best Time To Visit:-Due to the location of these hills at a higher elevation, the weather remains pleasantly cool even during the scorching summers. These hills can be visited during any season of the year, especially during winters because the whole place gets bedecked with the white blanket of snow. The beauty of Bakrota Hills in winters is simply alluring.Watch Out!If you love adventure activities then spending a vacation at Bakrota Hills can prove to be worthy. Trekking, hiking, rock climbing, camping etc. are some activities that will give a boost to the adrenaline for sure.Reaching There:-Chamba town is nearest to Barkota Hills. It is well-connected to the rest of Himachal Pradesh via roadways, railways, and airways. People can reach Chamba via interstate buses, trains, and flights from different cities of the state.Nearest Railway Station:- Pathankot Railway StationNearest Airport:- Pathankot Airport
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The beautiful location of Panchpula is set amidst the mesmerizing background of Dalhousie. It makes a brilliant layover for those who are passionate about being in a charming gateway or between some serene auras to go away from the daily humdrum of chaotic city life. Punchpula, Dalhousie can be visited at any time of the year as it remains a delight all through the year. Description: Punchpula is a beautiful waterfall which remains surrounded by long dense deodar and green pine trees. The meaning of the word 'Punchpula' is where five streams join together. The mainstream of Punchpula is the source of water supply to the entire vicinities of Dalhousie city. It is originated from the marvelous Dain Kund. Traveler Tips: • Keep comfortable clothing in your bags which is favorable for the holiday season. • If you are traveling in the peak season, you need to make all the bookings way ahead. • Hiring a local guide is advisable through your trip here. • Carry the regular first-aid kits with you for safety. Things to Do: • Panchpula waterfall contains a beautiful and eye-catching picnic spot nearby it. Doing a family picnic there will be great fun. • Satdhara Springs is a good spot for enjoying a couple of hours in the lap of nature. • Try doing trekking here as Panchpula has lots of beautiful trekking trails and trekking into those lush green valleys is truly a delight. Availability of Guides: Guides are available even after your arrival at Panchkula. But it is advisable to hire someone in advance for your tour. You can contact your travel operator for that. It is for your safety as the person you are hiring as a guide must have the local insight. Best Time to Visit: Punchpula, Dalhousie is one of those popularly visited sights in India which is favorable for making a visit anytime through the year. This wonderful destination offers pleasant weather throughout the year. But if you want to see the Springs and waterfalls in full swing then visit this place during monsoon. How to Reach? By train – You need to ride on a train to reach Chakki railway station first. This is the best way to reach Panchpula, Dalhousie. It is 45 km away from the waterfall. After reaching the station, you need to hire any local transport from there to reach your spot. By road – The Panchpula bus stand is only 3.5 km away from Dalhousie’s Gandhi Chowk. And, Dalhousie is well connected through roadways with North India. In fact, after reaching Dalhousie, you can enjoy a family walk through beautiful surroundings towards Punchpula. Interesting Facts and Trivia About: • Punchpula sources water to the whole area of Dalhousie. • The place surrounding Punchpula has many freshwater springs and beautiful waterfalls. • The streams of this waterfall are believed to have some healing effects and surprising medicinal properties. • There is a Samadhi here nearby the waterfall which is a memorial of the great activist, Sardar Ajit Singh, who was the uncle of Sardar Bhagat Singh. He breathed his last in Punchpula. Nearby Attractions: • Sach Pass • Saint Patrick’s Church • Chamera Lake • Satdhara Springs • Rang mahal • Garam Sadak • Daikund Peak • The church of Saint Francis Punchpula is not simple! This modern hill station is a wonderful gateway to enjoy with full of surprises. The roaring waterfalls and lush green valley make the place always alive.
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Placed 330 m above Gandhi Chowk at Dalhousie Moti Tibba is an attractive cliff and one of the conspicuous tourist terminuses recommended for nature strolls in the expanse. Attained by the government from The King of Chamba in 1853, the place holds picturesque views and salubrious weather for the travelers. A walk across the Greens of Moti Tibba, which is profusely obscured with conifer species of pine, fir and oak trees, could revitalize the frazzled minds of the tourists. A close encounter with langurs and spotting macaques hopping over the trees can be expected by the tourists. One of the most visited attractions of Dalhousie, the cliff is always thronged by tourists. For snow lovers, the place imitates paradise in winters when a ubiquitous crystalline sheet of snow shields the place.Traveler Tip:• Warm clothes especially leather jackets and pullovers are recommended along with socks, gloves, and beanies.• Keep some cash handy, as finding an ATM is problematic sometimes.• Keep your general medicines along.• Keeping a camera along is a must to capture the picturesque view of the place.Things to do:• Shopaholics can walk through mall road to find the local goodies of the place.• Tibetan Market is again a shopper's paradise that should not be missed.Visiting Timings:Monday - Friday: 7:00 AM -7:00 PMSaturday: 7:00 AM -7:00 PMSunday: 7:00 AM -7:00 PMPublic Holidays: 7:00 AM -7:00 PMBest time to visit:The best time visit is in the months from December to February.Nearby Attractions:• St. Francis Church. (Church)• Dainkund Peak. (Hill)• Chamera Lake. (Lake)• Shaheed Ajeet Singh Memorial. (Memorial)• Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. (Wildlife Sanctuary)• Panchpula. (Bridge)• Garam Sadak. (Walkway)• St. John's Church. (Church)• Bara Pather. (Temple)• Lakshmi Narayan Temple. (Temple)• Rock Garden. (Garden)• Shivkul. (Ashram)• Subhash Baoli. (Picnic spot)• Satdhara Falls. (Water Fall)• Bakrota Hills. (Hill)• Dakshina Murti. (Offbeat attraction)• Shree Raghunath Mandir. (Temple)• Kynance. (Historic Place)If you are a nature lover and want to visit a place that is tranquil and serene, Moti Tibba is the right spot for you. Enjoy nature at its best and revitalize yourself in the fresh aroma of conifer species of pine, fir and oak trees.
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For all those who are wondering why this road is called with such a name, well, the reason behind it is that the road is hotter in the daytime because it receives direct sunlight during that time. Garam Sadak is gifted with amazing weather for travellers to walk down the beauty of the road. Topping it all, Garam Sadak, Dalhousie is delimited by gorgeous trees and appears fantastic during the night.Highlights:The ones who are nature lovers and even many other tourists come over here to spend their quality time with the serene beauty of the place. The lane of this road looks stunning in the night, and it is also to be noted here that, the road is not that lit in the night and in case you plan to be here at this place in the evening, carrying torch is advisable. The zigzag road here fetches direct sunlight, which is the reason why it is contentedly warm even in the evening. Traveller Tips:Moreover, if you are wondering about the fees then there is absolutely no fee at all. Total time required to visit and explore Garam Sadak, Dalhousie is for over 1-2 hours.Best Time to Visit:Garam Sadak is solely meant for pedestrians and not even a single vehicle is allowed inside the premises. The best time to visit this quaint and nature pleasing destination is in winters from November to February, though it is open all round the year.How to Reach:The nearest airport to reach Dalhousie is Pathankot which is just 75 kilometres away from Dalhousie. One of the easiest and quickest ways to reach Dalhousie is by rail. Nearby Attractions:Below are a few amazingly beautiful attractions that for sure deserve to be on your checklist when you visit Dalhousie. Take a look: Shivkul Bakrota Hills Laxmi Narayan Temple Rang Mahal Bara Pathar Bhuri Singh Museum Subhash Baoli Chamunda Devi Temple Satdhara Falls, Dalhousie Kalatop, Dalhousie Panchpula, Dalhousie Chamera Lake Dainkund PeakWe are sure you would love as nd when you witness the scenic beauty of Garam Sadak. Do share your views with us!
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If you are keen on heights, Mahasu Peak Kufri is that the best pick for you. Since it's the very best peak within the region, it gives you majestic views of the whole surroundings. You will also see the Kedarnath and Badrinath pilgrims on a transparent day from here. You can reach the place on a horse, or a mule, which is the only mode of transport here.Take a walk along the thick forest of deodars and experience beauty. The Mahasu Ridge may be a place to go to during the ski season, especially for the beginners before hitting the rough slopes. Take a pit-stop at the Nag Devta Temple that's worth a visit. There's also a funfair where one can enjoy skiing, karting, etc. Visiting Mahasu Peak during winters is amazing to form fun within the snowThings to doIf you are visiting Mahasu Peak Kufri for your holidays, then you should also explore the other nearby areas and activities in Shimla. There are several popular things that one can do in Shimla and can enjoy themselves to the fullest. Some of such activities are toy train ride, ice skating, shopping in the Lakkar Bazaar, walk in the Pine forest, watch beautiful sunset at the Scandal point, summer hill any many more.HistoryThe region around Shimla including Kufri was once a neighbourhood of the dominion of Nepal. The region remained mysterious and was hidden from the rest of the world until the British discovered the place in 1819. Shimla was made the summer capital by the British in 1864 and it remained the same till 1939.FestivalIf you love to explore little known festivals and traditions then you should certainly visit this place in the month of May. The festival known as Mahasu Jatara falls on the third Tuesday of May and the celebration is all about shifting of the idol of the deity Lord Mahasu. Witness the native customs of the festival like goat sacrificing, archery competitions, traditional dances and ethnic music. A robust cultural display makes for a requirement watch.The people of Shimla don't follow any particular religion. They have amalgamated the teaching of the various religions like Hinduism and therefore the Buddhist in their way of life. Additionally to the temples, Buddhist Monasteries, you'll also visit the various churches which are that the legacy of British stays in Shimla like St. Micheals Church within the city.Some notable temples of the town are Bhimakali temple, Jakhu Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple, and Tara Devi Temple. Some Buddhist Monasteries also are located near the town. You will also find some influence of the Tibetan way of life over the citizens of the town.Popular CultureHimachal Pradesh is a multicultural state. Though it saw tons of advancement within recent years, the locals have stayed faithful to their roots and have persisted to their traditions and heritage. The uniqueness of the culture of the state is reflected by their local dance and song. The standard food of the Himachal is extremely very similar to the remainder of north India but thanks to its high altitude – meat may be a favoured addition to their meals.Vinayak Chaturthi and Diwali are celebrated with great splendour. There's also a summer festival in May with a spread of cultural performances. The whole city is lit up and therefore the people are wearing bright colourful garments. In January, the National Snow Statue Competition is conducted here and therefore the annual winter sports festival occurs in February.Best Time to VisitThe best time to visit Mahasu Peak Kufri is, especially in summers. The months between April and June are the best time and you will have comfortable weather to explore the place better. If you want to enjoy snow and skiing then you must visit in the months of December to February. You will get to see snowfall and can enjoy other such snow activities which aren’t possible in summers.How to Reach?If you are travelling by air, Jubbarhati airport is the nearest airport which is 20 km away from Shimla. Railways are also a convenient way to reach Kufri. Shimla railway station is the nearest station which is 11 km away from Kufri. Regular buses are available from Shimla which will take you to Kufri. You can even choose to take your private cars and visit Mahasu Peak Kufri.Mahasu Peak Entry FeeThe entry fee per head is rupees 10. Mule ride is 500/- per head and Telescope fee is 200/- per head. You can also rent Himachali costume and snow boots at 100/- per head. The fees may vary depending on the season.Nearby AttractionsKufri is a tiny hill station. It is famous for its beautiful environs and therefore the cool refreshing atmosphere that pervades it. In summers, travellers can enjoy the bird's eye view of the encompassing verdant valleys and snow-capped peaks. There are a variety of picnic spots, hiking and trekking trails in and around Kufri. You can travel and explore the surrounding areas on horseback which makes it much more exciting and thrilling. They will hike through thick forest to the Mahasu Peak Kufri.The opposite places to go to in Kufri are the Himalayan Nature Park, which features a collection of animals and birds found only in Himachal Pradesh, and therefore the Indira Tourist Park, which is near the Himalayan Nature Park and provides bird's eye view of the locations around Kufri. In winters, the snow-covered slopes of Kufri wake up with skiers and other visitors.This was all about Mahasu Peak Kufri. Plan your holidays in Shimla and enjoy culture, festival, nature and many more all at once.
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Indrahar Pass, Kangra is a great place for trek for beginners and also for experienced trekkers. It features a sort of element in it which makes it a really interesting option for both. It is set within the Kangra valley and it is filled with trekking adventures to the brim. There are some great camping sites and therefore the added joy of scaling a 4000m+ Himalayan pass. The foremost memorable moment on the trek would surely be the views from Indrahar pass. This is not a demanding trek as you begin off with a gradually rising trail and one gets to steer through enchanting forest sections and delightful villages. Travellers can camp at the highest of a gorgeous hill called Triund, which is a sort of experience. This is the starting point from where one can start hiking towards the 4420m high Indrahar pass.This stage would require tons of climbing abreast of steep slopes but nothing very drastic. The day we scale the pass one will get to put during a lot of diligence, climbing up through sections of scree and boulders.This effort goes to be suitably rewarded with fine views all around. During the end-May to mid-June period, there's going to be snow on the trail and one can plan a hike keeping the conditions in mind. After crossing the pass, start climbing right down to McLeodganj.HistoryThe king of the Katoch Dynasty founded Kangra. Chand dynasty again is a popular dynasty that ruled during this area during the Vedic times. This town is successful in preserving its cultural heritage. Once referred to as the dominion of Trigata, it became a princely state and was annexed by the British later. It has tons of temples just like the popular Bajreshwari Temple.The Kangra Fort, a neighbourhood of which collapsed after the earthquake of 1905 - may be a popular hub for tourists. Kaleshwar Mahadev temple of this area is additionally very fashionable. A number of the temples were reconstructed after the earthquake of 1905. It has the rich cultural heritage of Kangra, which makes it such an ideal place for a history buff. It has an area that has its name engraved within the pages of history because it is additionally linked to Mahabharata, the favoured epic in India.Things to doThere are several things to do in Indrahar pass, Kangra. One thing that is mentioned already is trekking. The trekking experience is best in Indrahar Pass. Other things include Triund hill trekking, Naddi Viewpoint, explore history in the Tibetan museum, the Jwala Devi temple is a must-visit. Along with the site seeing the local food is great. If you are a fan of shopping you can shop in the local markets which sell exotic things that are liked by all. Indrahar Pass, Kangra has a lot of giving.FestivalIn the state level fairs of Kangra, Holi of Palampur, Shivratri of Baijnath, Baisakhi of Kaleshwar Mahadev Dehra, Lohri of Pragpur, Dusshera of Jaisinghpur and other district-level fairs, besides Shivratri of Kathfrah Indora, Jwalli's Baishaki etc., apart from this many sorts of village-level fairs are also organised.On Shivratri several pilgrims visit the temple of Lord Shiva in Kathgarh and Baijnath and earn virtue by appearing in the Shiva temple, they also get the pleasure that is unforgettable.Holi is widely known during a very attractive and interesting fashion in Palampur also as in Baijnath, Jaisinghpur sub-divisions. On this occasion, beautiful Floats also are administered at the village level, during which many lugs are involved. In these fairs, cultural practices also are organized, during which many talented and emerging artists of the state get the chance to showcase their skills and art.CultureJhamakada is one of the popular dance forms within the area. Performed by women, this is often an excellent tourist attraction and locals and visitors alike enjoy the sweetness of this traditional dance form. Art and craft is a crucial aspect of this area and other people have also taken it up as an occupation within the face of the rising tourism in Kangra.Kangra paintings are famous for his or her distinct sort of using colours and symbolism. Since the Chand dynasty was enormously powerful and popular artwork supported their individualistic culture of the bygone era also can be prominently seen in various galleries.Best Time to VisitThe ideal time to visit Indrahar Pass, Kangra is between September to June. The summer months of May and June make a perfect time for trekking within the valley. The temperature here is 22-30 degrees Celsius which is pleasant for your holidays. The winters are chilly and therefore the temperature goes below 20 degrees Centigrade. The perfect time for those that love winters is between October and December.How to Reach?The nearest airport is the Gaggal airport, which is about 7 km far away from Kangra. This airport is well connected to varied metropolitan cities and has flights at regular intervals. The main airlines operating within the area are Spice Jet and Air India.Regular state buses ply here from Delhi. Volvo buses are available too. These buses have comfortable seats and have planned stoppages. People that enjoy the journey quite reaching the destination should choose this adventure. However, it is often tiring for a few people as Himachal is sort of distant and luxury buses can’t ensure comfort during a very long journey. Kangra doesn’t have a railroad station of its own unfortunately and therefore the nearest railroad station is Pathankot, which is approximately 86 km from Kangra. Another nearby railroad station is that the Mukarian Station, 30 km from the town. Kangra Valley Express may be a blessing for tourists visiting the world because it operates between Pathankot and Baijnath.So visit Indrahar Pass, Kangra and enjoy your holidays.
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Every time you visit any hill town, you will be fascinated by the one tourist attraction that makes it to the list of every travel itinerary- The Mall Road. Whether you are in Shimla, Manali, Mcleodganj, Gangtok or any other hill station, you will always find a mall road lined with different shops selling the crafts of the indigenous people and offering a number of options to eat. A similar experience can be enjoyed when you are visiting the beautiful hill station of Darjeeling in West Bengal. The Mall Road, Darjeeling is one of the most exquisite mall roads out there. It is shadowed by the Rhododendron trees that are growing in all their might around the mall road. The view of the majestic snowcapped mountains also make a stroll through Mall Road in Darjeeling worthwhile. Unquestionably, the mall road in Darjeeling is its heartbeat and one can indulge into all types of delights when visiting this stunning mall road. Traveler Tips: The one tip that all travelers should keep in mind when they are visiting the Darjeeling Mall Road is to wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Also dress up according to the weather. Don’t forget to bargain with the vendors to get a good price. Things to Do : When you are at the mall road in Darjeeling, there are a number of things that you can enjoy. The first thing would be to enjoy a steaming hot cup of Thukpa and a plate of hot momos with spicy chutney at any of the local joints while taking in the breathtaking views of the mountains. Another amazing experience that you can probably have at the Darjeeling Mall Road is having a pony ride. Yes, you can get on the back of a horse and take a ride of the entire mall road. It'll cost you around 200 bucks for the ride and will cover all the important location like Bhanu Bhawan, Chowrasta, Governor House, and the Mahakal Market. Shopping is one of the favorite things that tourists like to do on the Darjeeling Mall Road. You can explore the Chowk Bazar, Dragon Market, and the Mahakal Market to shop some souvenir and other woolen items. History : As far as the history of this mall road is concerned, it is believed that it’s prominence rose during the colonial times. It was used by the British who would take a leisurely walk at the mall road while enjoying the picturesque beauty of the mountains. Best Time to Visit : There is no such beat time to visit the Mall Road in Darjeeling. Every time you are in Darjeeling, taking a stroll through the exotic Mall Road is a must. To make the most of your stroll on this beautiful mall road, you can visit during the months of winters to enjoy the scenic view of the snow-capped mountains from the Mall Road itself. How to Reach : Mall Road is the main entryway to Darjeeling. Whether you are hailing a cab or coming by a local transport, it will take you through the Mall Road. The Chowrasta can be reached by the Nehru Road and the Gandhi Road. If you are staying anywhere near the Mall Road, you can ask any autovala or take a taxi to reach the mall road. Interesting Facts : The Mall Road is a loop in reality while many people believe it is a straight road. This loop starts from the main square or Chowrasta and goes all the way around the Observatory Hill. You can even see the locals taking a stroll and going the mile-long loop of the mall in the morning. If you also start from the Chowrasta and go to the Observatory, you can carry your walk forward to reach The Mall once again, completing the loop. Contrary to the common belief, this Mall Road does not take you to The Mall on the Gandhi Road. You need to take the Nehru Road to reach the Mall.
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Suicide Point, Kalpa is an amazing place to be for everyone and for the adventure lovers, it is a must visist place. The Suicide Point, Kalpa is located 3 km away from the Kalpa village and is counted amidst the most visited destinations in Kalpa. The destination is bestowed with amazingly beautiful sights that people forget about the dangerous trenches of the place. The journey all the way to the Suicide Point, Kalpa takes you through some amazing passionate backdrops and setting along with alluring and tantalising apple orchards that are surely treat to the eyes. For those who are adventure lovers,m this place definitely deserves to be on your travel diaries. If the facts and figures are to be mentioned, Kalpa is at 31.53°N 78.25°E, having an average elevation of 2,960 metres that is 9,711 feet). Moreover, it is also to be mentioned here that the place is 265 kilometres (165 mi) drive from Shimla from the national highway 5 in Kinnaur district.Best Time to Visit:Th best time to visit Suicide Point, Kalpa is in the winters that is from the month of October to May are long and freezing while summers are short from June to September. However, the place witnesses unpredictable rainfall during the monsoon season. And if the summer season is talked about, then temperature falls between 8 degree Celsius and 24 degree Celsius.How to Reach:The ones who are planning to visit Suicide Point through air, Shimla airport is the nearest airport that happens to be 276 kms away from the destination. But yes, cabs and taxis are readily available from the airport to the Suicide Point, Kalpa. The other nearest airport is Dehradun, which is 138 km away from Kalpa. Moreoverm the ones who are travelling via train, the nearest railway station to the Suicide Point, Kalpa is again Shimla that is 244 km away.Interesting Facts:The interesting fact about Suicide Point, Kalpa is on an amazing location and is situated on the road connecting Kalpa with Roghi. The Suicide Pointm Kalpa is surrounded amidst the beautiful nature depth. For the adventure lovers, the point is gifted with dangerous trench and vertical slopes and that are what the USP of the place. Moreover, those love to be at height and enjoy being at certain level above the floor, then Suicide Point is your place to be! You are surely going to enjoy the beautiful and striking landscapes of this place in Himachal Pradesh.Traveller Tips:The exact location to reach suicide point is Kalpa, Himachal Pradesh. Moreover, it is also to be noted here that there is no particular time limit to visit Suicide Point, Kalpa. And if you are wondering if there are charges to visit Suicide Point, Kalpa, then you are majorly wrong as there is no entry fees.Nearby Attractions:Below are a few nearby attractions that one must visit:• Sapni Fort• Roghi Village• Kinnaur Kailash• Trekking to Chakka• Batseri Village• Narayan-Nagini Temple• Hu-Bu-Lan-Kar monastery• Kothi• Kamru Fort• Basteri
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Himachal Pradesh is undoubtedly hone to some of the most beautiful hill stations you can ever visit. It has some panoramic views of the Pir Panjal, Dhauladhar, Kailash Parvat, and other mountain ranges which make it a heaven for all the lovers of mountains and all things natural. While hill stations like Shimla, Manali, Kasol, etc., are quite popular among the travelers, this hilly state also houses a serene and untouched hilly hamlet called Kalpa. And even within Kapla, there is an even smaller and non-commercialized town called Batseri Village.Batseri Village, Kalpa is a serene little village in the snowy tehsil of Kalpa. Located in the Kinnaur District, Batseri Village offers some of the most stunning views of the Himalayas. If you are looking for solitude in a place that offers you picturesque views of the Great Himalayas, Batseri village is where you should head to. It is the perfect place to explore nature’s beauty and find unexplored places to relax.Traveler TipsAs Batseri village is located on a height, the temperature drops down below zero on most part of the year. So, it is always advised to all those traveling to Batseri village for a holiday to carry enough warm clothes. Make sure you have adequate clothes to get you through the sub-zero temperature. Even if you are visiting during the summer season ,the temperature can be pretty low.Things to DoIf you want to know what things you can do in Batseri Village then there is not much it offers other than peace of mind, body, and soul. You can view some of the most stunning views of the Himalayas while relaxing in your accommodation. Apart from that, you can go on a nature walk along the village and other neighboring villages to know the culture and the traditions of the people. The people of all the villages in Kalpa district are very friendly and can offer you some amazing home-cooked food that is native to their region itself.You can also visit the Buddha Temple that is located in this village and is popular among the tourists. Apart from that, you can also buy handicrafts, shawls, and other local artifacts made by the people to keep as souvenirs from the local market of Batseri village.AvailabilityYou can visit the Batseri village from Manali and from Shimla to reach the Kinnaur District. This village is largely unavailable during the winters. Snow fall starting from the months of October and November continues continuously through December, January, and February. Hence, the roads are inaccessible due to the heavy snow. So, it is not very easy to reach the Batseri village during this part of the year.Best Time to VisitThe best time to visit any village in Kalpa would be no other than the months between May and September to Mid-October. However, it is also advisable to avoid traveling there during the monsoon months as there could be landslide due to continuous rain.How to ReachBatseri Village is one of the 109 villages that make up the Sangla block. It is situated at a distance of just one kilometer from the district center Reckong Peo. State government buses by HRTC ply regularly between Reckong Peo and state capital like Shimla and Manali. You can reach Shimla by air or by road and take this bus to reach Reckong Peo and then you can either walk or take a car or bike to reach Batseri village. Apart from that, the roads to Reckong Peo are now well-paved and the thrill-seekers can drive a car to here as well. Regular service of shared Sumo cars and other taxis is also another means to reach Batseri village. Once you have reached Reckong Peo, you need to walk a kilometer amidst the beautiful landscapes along the Baspa river to reach Batseri Village.Interesting Facts and Trivia AboutThe best part about reach Batseri village is the path that takes one there. It is through a lush green landscape that is fringed by tall Deodar trees. You also need to cross a beautiful spring and a stunning natural bridge that is made with cantilevered wood logs to reach here.
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The Kunzum Pass is the motorable passes of India at the peak. It has a breathtaking sight to behold. It works as a joining link between the Lahaul Valley and the Spiti valley and at a distance of 122 km from Manali. This pass further leads to Kaza town. Kunzum Pass is a heaven for photographers as they can capture beautiful glaciers, snowcapped peaks and the valley beyond. All of them altogether offer stunning views for photography. It is sited in the beautiful state Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of 15,060 feet above sea level. Best time to visit Kunzum pass To visit Kunzum Pass, it is better to plan between the second weeks of June to September. But August is not the time as the pass remains closed during monsoons. During winters, from 15th of October to march, the Kunzum Pass remains temporarily closed due to heavy snowfall. One should not plan their visit during August due to slippery routes and expected landslides. Weather Report • It remains shut during winters due to snowfall (end October to March). • It remains closed during monsoons due to rains and chances of landslides (July-August). • Tuesdays are noted as maintenance days, so no tourists are allowed to cross Rohtang Pass this day. How to reach Kunzum pass? By Road: Take HRTC buses or hire private taxis from Manali to travel to Kunzum Pass. The journey time from Manali to Kunzum Pass is around 6-7 hours. By Air: Airport is in Bhuntar town situated 170 km from Kunzum Pass. It is almost 50 km from Manali. So you can take buses or cars from the airport to Manali as well as the pass. By Train: The closest railway station to Kunzum Pass is the small scale Joginder Nagar railway station. It is located at a distance of 50 km. You can easily hire taxis to Kunzum Pass from there. The fascinating stories about this palace: One of the thrilling features of the kunzum pass is the fifteen hairpin turns throughout the way. There is a Kunzum Devi Temple on the Kunzum Pass. The dominant goddess, Goddess Kunzum Devi is a reincarnation of Goddess Durga and is the guardian of the pass as well as the travellers. Visitors travelling through the Kunzum Pass usually stop first by the temple to pray and look for blessings of the deity for a harmless journey. People follow a tradition of visiting the temple and a complete rotation of it in the vehicle before riding Kunzum pass. There are various Buddhist monasteries and gompas around the temple. These cloisters with painted prayer flags give an enthralling view to the visitors. You can also hear the sounds of bells and prayers of the temple and gompas that resound the entire valley. Hotels & Stay There is no accommodation facilities or hotels to stay in the Kunzum Pass. You can find a room at a distance of 12 km at Batal or at Losar towards Lahaul Spiti district which is 18 km away. Furthermore, the pass also does not have any shops or eateries. General Information About Kunzum Pass • Kunzum La or Kunzum Pass is doorway to Lahaul and Spiti valley. • The pass gives a mesmerising view of Bara-Sigri, which is known as the second-longest glacier in the world, Spiti valley, and Chandrabhaga Range. • The area is dedicatedly influenced by Buddhist, which is noticeable by the occurrence of chortens and prayer flags. • The Kunzum pass is also known for its exciting 9 km Trek to Chandratal. • It is not as congested as Rohtang Pass as a considerable number of the tourist visit Rohtang Pass only and gets back to Manali. This is how there usually a big traffic jam at Rohtang Pass. • It is better to drive straight ahead to this pass, leaving all the traffic behind for a more serene quiet experience. Nearby attraction 1. Kunzum Mata Mandir • Kunzum Devi temple is a famous tourist attraction, and a massive number of tourists visit it on their way and seek sanctifications for safe travel through the rocky terrain. • It is assumed that Goddess Kunjum resides in the temple and keeps a consistent eye over the pass and guards all the tourist and travellers in their journey through the rocky terrain. 2. Chandratal Lake Chandratal, or Moon Lake, got its name from its crescent shape. It is located at a distance of 7-8 km from Kunzum Pass and is a significant fascination for photographers and adventure seekers. 3. Key Monastery It is one of the largest and primogenital Monasteries in Spiti. Therefore it is the most famous tourist destination in this area. It also enshrines the idols of Buddha in Dhyana state and also has an assortment of old books and murals. 4. Pin Valley national park This national park is set amidst semi-frozen rivers in the Pin Valley. Being home to the rare species of famous Himalayan snow leopards it is visited by a considerable population daily. 5. Suraj Tal This is a lake, one should not miss while visiting Kunzum pass. Especially if you are into photography, Suraj Tal is one of the most dream-like and camera-friendly lakes. 6. Dhankar Lake At a distance of 5 km from the Dhankar monastery that sits treacherously on a rock face, lies the Dhankar Lake. It is sited on the other side of the mountain. It usually takes very less to reach the lake after a well-marked track from the monastery. Critical tips before booking package for Lahaul & Spiti Valley • It is important to pack lots of woollens to get rid of cold and getting sick situations in the chilling environment. • It is essential to carry all necessary medicines for altitude mountain illness. • Travellers who decide to visit Kunzum Pass in a car, it would be better to hire an SUV. • It is suggested to carry food numbers as there are no eateries in Kunzum Pass. • Travellers looking for bus services must confirm the state bus running status a day earlier.
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Nestled against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains, Sangla meadows also called as Sangla Kanda is one of the most favoured sightseeing attractions in Sangla, Himachal Pradesh. Offering breathing panoramic views of Kinnaur Kailash mountain range, Sangla meadows, Sangla is flocked by thousands of tourists from every part of the country.Description:Surrounded by mighty snow-capped mountains and covered in greenery, Sangla meadows is a tranquil retreat near Sangla valley, a picturesque hamlet located in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Known as a perfect site to see the stunning 180-degree panoramic view of Kailash Kinnaur mountain peak, Sangla meadows is a 6 hours trek (Medium difficulty level) from Sangla. Tourists can also take a taxi from Sangla valley to explore Sangla meadows and other nearby attractions. If taking the trekking route to enjoy the stunning beauty of Sangla meadows closely, you should consider overnight camping, which is another popular activity that takes place in this beautiful valley.Things to do:• Experience trekking in the stunning location of Sangla meadows and enjoy overnight camping, bonfire amidst nature.• Enjoy the stunning panoramic view of the Kailash mountain range from the Sangla meadows• See the lush green fields and apple orchard that covers the Sangla meadows.• Go around viewing the local huts of Himachal and delving into the lifestyles and customs of the local people.• Soak in the serenity of nature and snap some good pictures.Best time to visitsSangla meadows and rest of Sangla village gets flocked by many tourists as the spring and summer months approach. Owing to its pleasant weather and good road condition in summer, tourism in Sangla is at peak. Another best time to plan a visit to Sangla is between September-October. Avoid planning a visit to this place between November to February, as winters in this region are extremely cold with the temperature between 9 and -10 degrees Celsius.How to reach?Kalka Railway Station is the nearest railway station to visit Sangla . Regular HRTC and private buses from major cities in North India like Delhi, Chandigarh and Shimla head towards Sangla. Located at a distance of 240 km, Jubbarhatti Airport in Shimla is the nearest airport to Sangla Valley. Private cars and taxis are available from outside the airport for Sangla meadows at reasonable rates. To have a hassle-free and joyful trip to Sangla and other popular places in Kinnaur, it’s always recommended to grab a tour package from a reputed travel agent in your city.Nearby attractionsFollowing are some of the popular places nearby Sangla meadows that you must visit on your trip to this beautiful hamlet.• Kamru fort• Baspa River• Bering nag temple• Batseri village• Tibetian wood craving centre• Chitkul village• Trout farm• RakchamSurrounded by mountains and serene atmosphere, Sangla meadows, should not be missed at any cost. Plan a trip to Sangla meadows, Sangla to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul.
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Chitkul is a tiny hamlet in Kinnaur district, near the Indo-China border in Himachal Pradesh. 25 km away from Sangla, this hamlet is located at 3,450 meters above the sea level. It a 2-3 hours journey to reach Chitkul from Sangla. This village has its own appeal with people who are living here, this is the reason it has gradually started attaining ground amongst domestic as well as foreign visitors. In this blissful place, people are composed, quiet, trustworthy and supporter of both Hinduism and Buddhism. It is the last inhabited village in proximity to the Indo-China border.Native residents with an enthralling smile on their faces, tiny wooden houses, a small hoard of sheep grazing in nearby fields, and a well-nurtured shepherd dog wiggling his tail are an ever-welcoming site the visitors would come across in Chitkul. With an abundance of its vivacious cultural and pristine splendor it inherits, the village leaves the travelers spellbound. With a sacred heritage right in the middle of the village, named Mathi Temple, Chitkul holds a divine aura in its atmosphere. Mathi Temple is the native deity of the people Chitkul. More than a village god, Mathi temple is dedicated to goddess Shri Mathi. This temple has three shrines, the main one said to have been built by an inhabitant of Garhwal.Chitkul is known for its best quality potatoes farming in the whole world and the price of potatoes grown here is very expensive. Being the last village on the Indo-China border, this is the last place where no permit is required for traveling.Traveler Tips:• Carry enough cash as there are no ATMs in Chitkul.• Carry all the required medicines and a first-aid kit, as there are no hospitals in Chitkul, one has to rush to Sangla for any medical emergencies.• Make sure that your vehicle is full of fuel as there are no petrol pumps as well in Chitkul.• As there is no mobile connectivity in the village, make sure you give a pre-hand update about your whereabout to your dear ones.• Carry warm and comfortable clothes.• Keep a pair of skit proof and comfortable footwear.• The weather here is erratic; sometimes there is a sudden drop in temperature in summers also.Things to Do:• Do visit the Dhaba that holds the signboard of ‘Hindustan ka Akhri Dhaba’.• Visit the ancient Mathi temple located in the heart of the village to seek the blessings of the local diety.Sit by the localities, chat with them as they are very warm and welcoming.• Sit in the balcony and enjoy the serene and tranquil surrounding sipping your favorite cup of tea or coffee.Popular Culture:Mostly influenced by Tibetan culture, people follow both Hinduism and Buddhism and leave in harmony.Architecture:The village proliferates in classic Himachali architectural cottages of slate or wooden roofs.Best Time to Visit:Chitkul is very cold and breezy during summers and the temperature fluctuates between 5°C to 20°C. After the first snowfall in November as the temperature drops down to -20°C, the road closes and opens again at the end of March.How to Reach?Being 603 km away from the capital, travelers can first reach to Shimla or Kufri from Delhi and take a cab to Kinnaur district. The alternative common route is Chandigarh to Shimla or Kufri, then Sarahan, Sangla and finally Chitkul.Interesting Facts and Trivia About:• Chitkul is positioned just 120 km before the Indo-Tibetan border.• Signboard with manuscript ‘Hindustan ka Akhri Dhaba’, which is an eye-catcher for the passer-by and people traveling to Kinnaur, is in Chitkul.Nearby Attractions:• Sangla Meadows: Gape At Snow-Clad Mountains• Brelengi Gompa: Visit The Buddhist Monastery• Borasu Pass Trek: Hike With Your Gang• Tibetian Wood Carving Centre: Haven For Shoppers• Batseri: Admire Apple Orchards• Kamru Fort: Dive Into The History• Akhri Dhaba: Don’t Miss Out A Lunch Here
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Situated in Himachal Pradesh, Rakcham is a small village which is 23 kilometres away from Chitkul. It is the last village of India on the Tibetan Border. Baspa, the important tributary of the river Sutlej has the Baspa Valley where this small little village is located. Throughout the year you will find dense vegetation. From the small little village, you can also see the beautiful snow-peaked mountains of Kinnaur Kailash on the border of Kinnaur district. Remoteness is one of the most important traits here. The Rakcham, Sangla is an isolated place with less population than the other places nearby and it remains disconnected from other parts of the planet. You do not have any access to the internet or postal service in Rakcham. The crops that are cultivated during April and October is what on which the population here survives. In winter they cannot grow crops. When the winter strikes, the people move away to the low lying areas and once it is gone they come back and start their farming every year. This place has some local places which help them to get some essentials daily. Though Rakcham, Sangla cannot be considered much of a tourist spot, still, you can find small groups of people visiting the place every year to enjoy the scenic beauty, the ambience and the mountain peaks along with the beautiful and unique culture of the people living here. One of the best features of Rakcham Valley is the beautiful sunrise that turns everything into gold. The valley is also famous for some adventurous and recreational activities. Therefore, you can have some kind of adventure and thrill here. The village is also quite famous for the production of Apple and the farms of saffron. The local cuisine in Rakcham, Sangla is also famous and brings several foodies across the world to try out some. With so many things, Rakcham is full of surprises for everyone travelling. Things To Do There are quite a number of this to do in Rakcham, Sangla. The beautiful site has several different outdoor activities for fun. As a tourist, you can enjoy trekking, camping, hiking and many more apart from sightseeing. Near the river Baspa on the banks, one can go for camping, hiking and trekking in the Baspa Valley. One of the famous treks in the Rakcham trek in Himachal Pradesh. This covers a distance of around 12 km. The trek starts from Sangla and you need to walk through the Baspa valley and the thick pine, Apple orchards and apricot areas, with pink stretches sometime, lush green meadow to reach back to the village, Rakcham. As a tourist, you can walk three to four hours straight and explore the place without any trouble if you choose the right season to visit. If you are a beginner for trekking, you can try it here for the first time if you know that you can wall for hours. The trekking offered in this place is light to medium. Rakcham is also famous for its adventure and thrilling sports that include angling, river crossing etc. The terrains of the mountain slopes provide one with excellent ways to choose rappelling and rock climbing. If such activities sound amazing to you, then it will be easier for you to explore the places here in Rakcham. The Nature walks are the best here and one should try it. Your true nature lover will feel alive admits the tall green trees and the climate which of rejuvenating and pleasant. Yoga lovers will love this place because of less pollution that can help them have better wellbeing and health. Best Time To Visit The best time to visit Rakcham, Sangla is when the climate of the place is clean and pleasant. So, it is better to go there in summer when the weather is great. Summer season begins here in March and ends in June. During this time, the entire country experiences raise in the temperature and the scorching heat of the country makes it impossible for you to travel. But the temperatures in Rakcham never crosses 30 degree Celsius in summer even in the peak hours. During winter, the minimum temperature that the region experiences is 7 degree. Therefore, people visiting the place during this time should pack even of woollen clothes to stay warm and plan some camping near the river Baspa. How to reach? Rakcham, Sangla does not have any Aiport of a railway station. Even some years ago, this place didn’t even have any bus stop. Kalka Railway station in Shimla is the nearest railway station of Rakcham. It is around 206 km away. The nearest airport is in Jubberhatti and known as Shimla airport which is 253 km away from the Rakcham. To reach this place directly, the visitors can avail the cab facility directly from the airport of the stations. Using roadways, you can reach the place easier and faster. It is accessible through roadways from all other towns and villages nearby. The closest town of Rakcham is Sangla which is located in the lap of Baspa Valley and it around 11 km away at a distance from Rakcham. There are several HRTC buses that ply between the places in Sangla and Chitkul and take a fault in Rakcham. Twice a day you will get these buses covering the distance from one place to another. If by any chance you miss the government bus, you will get private buses from the village. In a few years, the roadways have improved and are still improving today. So if you wish to visit this place then you can drive your own vehicles or take a cab or bus to reach the place in no time. Visit Rakcham in the city of Sangla and explore the picturesque beauty of the place. The place has a lot of exploring and several outdoor activities for you to try. As a tourist, you will not feel bored and will be lucky enough to taste their local authenticity and witness the culture of the local people.
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