Thursday, August 21, 2008
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
HIMACHAL PRADESH
Himachal Pradesh is a "mountain state" and a delight for visitors, particularly during the summer season when people flock to this tiny hill station to escape the scorching heat of the plains. It came into being in its present form with the partition of the Punjab into Punjab and Haryana in 1966. The winding roads and high passes link its high mountains and valleys are the high points of a visit to this state. While the picturesque valleys of Kullu and Kangra are a blend of colours, in marked contrast the stark and barren terrain of Lahaul and Spiti have a stunning moonscape like beauty.The earliest known inhabitants of the region were tribals called Dasas. Later, Aryans came and they assimilated in the tribes. In the later centuries, the hill chieftains accepted suzerainty of the Mauryan Empire, the Kaushans, the Guptas and the Kanauj rulers. During the Mughal period, the Rajas of the hill states made some mutually agreed arrangements, which governed their relations. In the 19th century, Maharaja Ranjit Singh annexed/subjugated many of the states. When the British came, they defeated Gorkhas and entered into treaties with some Rajas and annexed the kingdoms of others. The situation more or less remained unchanged till 1947. After Independence, 30 princely states of the area were united and Himachal Pradesh was formed on 15th April, 1948. With the recognition of Punjab on 1st November 1966, certain areas belonging to it were also included in Himachal Pradesh. On 25th January 1971, Himachal Pradesh was made a full-fledged State.Hiamachal Pradesh is developing Eco Tourism and Organic Farming destinations, where quite a few villages are turning as eco tourism destinations, and farms being converted to Organic Farming. The State is bordered by Jammu & Kashmir on North, Punjab on West and South-West, Haryana on South, Uttar Pradesh on South-East and China on the East.
Chamba
Chamba, the land of antiquity, art and scenic beauty, is a wonder in itself for every visitor. Situated at the height of 996 m. above sea level on the south bank of the Ravi River, the ancient Pahari capital was founded in 920 A.D. by Raja Sahil Varman, who named it after his favourite daughter Champavati. Chamba valley is noted for the magnificence of it's scenery-touching the fringe of the Shivaliks and having three well-defined snowy ranges, the Dauladhar, constituting the outer Himalayas, the Pir Panjal or the mid Himalayas, and the Zanskar range or the inner Himalayas. The town of Chamba, the district headquarter of Chamba district is situated in the western Himalayas between north latitudes 32°10' and 33°13' and east longitudes 75°45' and 77°33'. Raja Sahil Varman founded this town when he conquered the lower Rani valley from the petty chiefs called Ranas and Thakurs in the beginning of 10th Century. In the bansauli or genealogical rolls of the Chamba Rajas a reference occurs of place which was adorned with highly fragrant Champaka trees and guarded by Goddess Champavati or more popularly known as Chameshni. The temple was built by Sahil Varman in the honour of his daughter Champavati who is worshipped as a goddess in Chamba. Champavati temple became the family temple of the ruling family. General InformationArea: 2.4 sq. km Altitude: 926 meters Climate: (deg C) SummerMax.39 Deg C Min.8 Deg C Winter Max.10 Deg CMin.1.1 Deg C The climate of Chamba in general is tempreate with well defined seasons. However, there may be variations because of micro-climatic systems depending upon altitude and mountain aspect. The winters last from December to February. March and April generally remain cool and dry but snowfall does occur at higher elevations during these months. The temperature begins to rise rapidly from the middle of April till last week of June or first week of July when monsoon breaks-in. Monsoon continues till the end of August or mid September. During the monsoon, the weather remains misty, humid and cloudy. October and November are comparatively dry but cold. The maximum temperature in Chamba town in summers is 38°C and the minimum in winter is 0°C. Clothing: Summer - Light woollens, winter - Heavy woollens Best Season: April to Mid July and Mid September to December The best season to visit Chamba is between April and October. Adventure tourists may like to undertake winter trekking from November to March when the higher reaches of the district are snow clad and access to most of the villages is on foot. Languages spoken: Pahari (Local Dialect), Hindi, English. Transport And CommunicationAir: Nearest airport is Amritsar - 200 km. Rail: Pathankot - 90 km is connected to major cities in India. Road: Chandigarh - 239 km, Delhi - 514 km, Dalhousie - 143 km, Jammu -197 km, Kangra - 18 km, Kullu - 214 km, Manali - 253 km, Palampur - 35 km, Shimla - 322 km. Bus and taxi service is available from Chamba to Pathankot, Delhi, Dharamsala, Shimla, Chandigarh, Jammu and most of the Punjab cities along the national highway. Fairs & Festivals Minjar Mela: Minjar is the most popular fair of Chamba, which is attended by a large number of people from every nook and corner of the district. This mela is held on the second Sunday of the Shravana month. The fair is announced by distribution of Minjar which is a silk tassel worn on some parts of the dress by men and women alike. This tassel symbolizes the shoots of paddy and maize, which make their appearance around this time of the year. The week long fair begins when the Minjar flag is hoisted in historical Chowgan. The town of Chamba wears a colourful look with every person turning out in best attire. Most part of the Chowgan is converted into markets and people do brisk business during this week. Sports and cultural programmers are organized. On the third Sunday the gaiety, colourfulness and enthusiasm reaches its crescendo when the colourful Minjar procession of the deities accompanied by dancing troupes, traditionally attired locals, traditional drum beaters along with Police and Home Guards band, begins its march from Akhand Chandi Palace for the venue near the Police Lines Nalhora. A great concourse of people is already assembled there. Earlier the Raja and now the chief guest throws a coconut, a rupee, a seasonal fruit and a Minjar tied in a red piece of cloth - Lohan - as offering to the river. All the people throwing their Minjars into the river follow this. The local artists sing traditional Kumjari-Malhar. Betel leaves and ittra are offered to everyone among the invitees as a gesture of respect and festivity. Until 1943, a live buffalo used to be pushed into the river to propitiate it. It if was carried away and drowned, the event was regarded as propitious, the sacrifice having been accepted. If it crossed the river and reached the other bank, that also was auspicious, as it was believed that all the sins of the town were transferred to the other side of the river. Minjar fair has been declared as one of the state fairs of Himachal Pradesh. Wide coverage is given on TV and print media. Undoubtedly Chamba is at its very best during this fair that generally falls in the month of July/ August. Chamba's annual Suhi Mata Festival, which lasts for four days in early April, commemorates Rani Champavati, the wife of the 10th century Raja Sahil Verma. Only women and children participate in the festival, dancing on the Chowgan before processing with an image of Champavati and banners of the Rajput solar emblem to the Suhi Mata temple.
Kullu Valley
Kullu was once known as Kulanthpitha, which means the end of the habitable world. Beyond rose the forbidding heights of the Greater Himalayas, and by the banks of the shining river Beas, lay the fabled 'Silver Valley'. The 'Silver Valley' has nature's treasures that lie carelessly scattered as flowers on the high meadows.The Valley of Gods, as the Kullu Valley has come to be known, is perhaps the most delightful region in the Western Himalayas. Situated on the banks of the river Beas, Kullu town, the headquarters of the district, serves as a nerve centre of the valley and is the starting place for a number of treks.General InformationArea: 6.68 sq. km Altitude: 1219 meters Climate: (deg C) SummerMax.30.8 Deg C Min.18.8 Deg C WinterMax.16.4 Deg CMin.5.2 Deg C Rainfall: 102 cm Clothing: Summer - Light woollens, winter - Heavy woollens Best Season: Mid-March to Mid-November. Languages spoken: Pahari (Local Dialect), Hindi, English. TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATIONAir: Nearest airport is Bhuntar -50 km. Rail: Nearest railhead is Chandigarh -272 km. Road: Ambala -606 km, Chandigarh -556 km, Delhi -798 km, Pathankot -278 km, Shimla -240 km, Manali -40 km, Palampur -164 km, Rohtang Pass -91 km, Dharamshala -213 km, Dalhousie -334 km, Jogindarnagar -166 km.
Manali
Manali is the Northern end of the Kullu Valley and is the main resort in the area. It is beautifully situated and there are many pleasant walks around the town. Surrounded by towering peaks at arm length, Manali's major asset is its proximity to the snowline, never more than few hours drive from the town nestling at comfortable 2050meters. It is the centre of the flourishing orchard industry a popular honeymoon destination and trailhead for numerous treks. GENERAL INFORMATIONArea: 5.12 sq. km Altitude: 1926 meters Climate: (deg C) SummerMax.25 Deg CMin.12 Deg C WinterMax.14.5 Deg CMin.2 Deg C Rainfall: 102 cm Clothing: Summer - Light woollens Winter - Heavy woollens Best Season: April to Mid-July and Sep. to Nov. Languages spoken: Pahari (Local Dialect), Hindi, English TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATIONAir: Nearest airport is Bhuntar - 50 km. Rail: Nearest railhead is Chandigarh - 272 km. Road: Jogindarnagar - 166 km, Shimla - 240 km, Delhi - 611 km.
Shimla
In the days before independence, Shimla was the most important British hill station, and was the summer capital of British India. The British in 1819 A.D first discovered Shimla, but it was not until 1822 A.D that the first permanent house was erected and not until many years later that Shimla became the summer capital. The name Shimla is derived from the Himalayan Goddess Shamla a synonym of Kali. General InformationArea: 18 sq. km Altitude: 2213 meters Climate: (deg C) SummerMax.27 Deg CMin.16.5 Deg C WinterMax.16.5 Deg CMin.5.2 Deg C Clothing: Summer - Light woollens, winter - Heavy woollens Best Season: April to Mid-July, Mid-September to Mid-November Languages spoken: Pahari (Local Dialect), Hindi, English TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATIONAir: Nearest airport is Kullu- 23 km Rail: Nearest railhead is Kalka- 90 km. Road: Chandigarh- 117 km, Kullu- 220 km, Manali- 260 km, Delhi- 343 km, Pathankot- 380 km, Ambala- 151 km, Chail- 43 km, Dehradun- 240 km etc.
Dalhousie
Dalhousie is named after the British Governor - General of the 19th century Lord Dalhousie. The town's height varies between 1525m and 2378m and is surrounded by varied vegetation. Dalhousie has charming colonial architecture, including some beautiful churches. The spectacular snow-covered Dhauladhar Mountains are also visible from this enchanting town. GENERAL INFORMATIONArea: 13 sq. km Altitude: 2036 meters Climate: (deg C) SummerMax.23 Deg C Min.15.5 Deg C WinterMax.10 Deg CMin.1 Deg C Clothing: Summer - Light woollens, winter - Heavy woollens Best Season: April to November Languages spoken: Pahari (Local Dialect), Hindi, English TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATIONAir: Nearest airport is Amritsar- 118 km & Jammu- 188 km. Rail: Nearest railhead is Pathankot- 80 km. Road: Amritsar- 188 km, Jalandhar- 192 km, Pathankot- 80 km, Chamba- 56 km, Manali- 402 km, Delhi- 563 km, Chandigarh- 352 km, Dharamshala- 143 km, Khajjiar- 27 km, Jammu-188 km. Bus and taxi service is available from Chamba to Pathankot, Delhi, Dharamsala, Shimla, Chandigarh, Jammu and most of the Punjab cities along the national highway.
Kinnaur
Kinnaur, the land of the mythological Kinnaras is a deeply laced-in terrain along the Sutlej River with many side valleys, by which the district is thoroughly divided. Due to its geographical setting, Kinnaur has two distinct climatic zones - the wet and the arid. Only the area south of the Great Himalaya (Sutlej and Baspa valleys) receives monsoon rains. In the upper reaches of the district, the monsoon showers progressively decrease. Recong Peo, the district headquarters may be considered as a place where the Great Himalayan range obstructs the march of the monsoon. From this point on the vegetation rapidly becomes sparser ultimately to remain only along the Sutlej River. The harsh winter with heavy snowstorms lasts from October to May leaving only June to September for the short summer and vegetation to grow. A rare style of wood architecture finds its climax in the temple of Sarahan, located at the border between the Shimla hills and Lower Kinnaur. The southern area of Kinnaur may be regarded as a transition zone between Hinduism of the Indian plains, a unique animism of local kind - especially snake worship - and Buddhism, prevalent in the hills. At the village of Pooh, one enters the cultural realm of Tibet. Although the climatic conditions may be considered as extremely hard the people of Kinnaur are well acclimatised to their surroundings bearing strong yet fine natural features and characteristics typical for all mountain folks. In the regions below Kalpa their faces reveal Persian influences which may be derived from the armies of Alexander the Great having reached as far as here and having settled and mixed with the locals. In the northern areas the Tibetan features dominate. Therefore also the habits vary south and north of this "monsoon-border", both being equally unique, not only in architecture but also in languages of their own and a rich heritage of folk and fairy tales, songs, dances, festivities, fairs, costumes and ornaments. General InformationClimate: This region is called as cold desert and not having monsoon. In winter the temperature can drop below freezing point when heavy woollens are required, in summer the weather remains pleasant when light woollens are advised. Access Nearest Airports are at Kullu (Bhunter) 250 km and Shimla 445 km. Kaza can be approached by road from Shimla (May to October) and from Manali 200 km via Kunzum Pass (June to October). AccommodationThe Tourist Lodge Kaza is an ideal base to make sorties to discover the beautiful valley of Spiti. Address. Tourist Lodge, Kaza-172114, spiti Sub Division, H.P. Tel. : (01906) 222566. Accommodatian: 4 DBRs and Tented Colony with 5 tents.Facilities Spacious rooms having attached bath with running hot and cold water. Parking within premises. Restaurant. Places of Interest Recong Peo : (2670m) located 240 kms from Shimla, 7 kms from Powari and 13 kms from Kalpa. Recong Peo is the Headquarter of the district Kinnaur. Provides fine view of the Kinner Kailash. Kothi : Just 3 km from Recong Peo Kothi has an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Chanadika Devi. Set against a backdrop of mountains of deodar the temple has an unusual ard1itectural style and fine sculpture. An exquisite gold image of the goddess is enshrined in the sanctrum. Sangla Valley: If a landscape had the powers of casting spells, then the Sangla Valley would be a magician-extraordinary. Once seen, it is a place that can never be forgotten. Even the rushing waters of the Baspa River, that flows through its 95 km length, seem to absorb some of the magic and slow down to savour its Snow-framed beauty. 2 km from Sangla is the fort of Kamru (3000m) its tower like architecture, resembles that of the Bhimakali complex and this was the original seat of the rulers of Bushehar. Chitkul (3450) is the last village of the Valley and beyond lies Tibet. The area is well known for its saffron farms and the Baspa river is an excellent place for angling for trout. The Hotel shrikhand acts as the perfect base to visit the enchanting valley. Rlba (2745m) ; Just 18km from Powari on NH-22 is Riba, famous for its vineyards and local wine " Angoori" that is made from the grapes. Jangi (2790m) : 26 km from Powari, the inner border is located here beyond which foreigners require permit to travel upto Tabo. From this point the famous Kinner Kailash Parikarama Trek starts touching Morang. Thangi and Kunocharang villages and entering Chitkul village in sangla Valley. From here one can drive to Leh in the neighbouring state of Jammu and Kashmir. This road is being increasingly used by tourists to Leh for the past 5-6 years. If Kinnaur is "god's gift," then Spiti is the place "where the gods live." The gompa at Tabo is called the "Ajanta of the Himalayas" as it has exquisite frescoes and stucco statues. The monastic complex here has nine temples, 23 chortens, monks' and nuns' chambers. Tabo's sanctity, in transHimalayan Buddhism, is next only to Tibet's Tholing gompa. Further above is Kaza, the base to visit the Hikim, Komik and Langja monasteries. En route from Tabo is Dhankar gompa, a masterpiece of local architecture as also castle of the ruler of Spiti. Still further is an important monastery at Ki and Kibber (4,205 metres above sea level) is the region's highest permanently inhabited village connected by a motorable road. Puh (2837m) : Lush green fields orchards of apricot vineyards and almond trees, are to be seen on the route of Puh. Just 58 km from Powari along the NH-22, Puh has rest house and hotel facilities. Nako (3662m) :117 km from Kalpa. In Hangrang valley is the largest village above sea level. It is also famous for Nako Lake which has boating facilities in summer and during winter its frozen surface is used for ice skating. Buddhist monastery is located here. KAZA: (3600m) Once was the capital of Nono the chief of spiti, Kaza situated at an altitude of 3600m above sea level on the left bank of Spiti, presently is the Head quarter of spiti Sub Division. This beautiful place has buddhist monastery and Hindu Temple.
Dharamshala
Dharamshala is the district HQ of Kangra district. This is a hill station lying on the spur of the Dhauladhar range about 18 kms north east of Kangra town. Hill station is wooded with oak and conifer trees and snow-capped mountains enfold three sides of the town while the valley stretches in front. The snow line is perhaps more easily accessible at Dharamshala than at any other hill resort and it is possible to trek to snow point after an early morning's start. In 1905, tragedy struck Dharamshala when an earthquake levelled it completely. After its reconstruction, Dharamshala flourished as a quiet health resort. It is divided into two distinct parts. Lower Dharamshala has civil offices and business establishments with courts. Kotwali Bazar and Upper Dharamshala compose of places with names, which bear witness to its history like McLeod Ganj and Forsythe Ganj. Since 1960, when it became a temporary hqr of His Holiness The Dalai Lama, Dharamshala has risen to international fame as "The Little Lhasa in India". General InformationArea: 13 sq. km Altitude: 1250 meters to 1600 meters Climate: (deg C) SummerMax.33 Deg C Min.22 Deg C WinterMax.15 Deg CMin.0 Deg C Clothing: Summer - Light woollens Winter - Heavy woollens Best Season: April to June and September to November Languages spoken: Hindi, Punjabi, English and Pahari are understood & spoken by the people engaged in tourism trade Shopping Centres: Kotwali Bazar, a general shopping area, and McLeod Ganj for Tibetan handicrafts Transport And CommunicationAir: Nearest airport is Amritsar at 200 km. Rail: Pathankot - 90 km is connected to major cities in India. Road: Chandigarh- 239 km, Delhi- 514 km, Dalhousie- 55 km, Jammu-197 km, Kangra- 18 km, Kullu- 214 km, Manali -253 km, Palampur- 35 km, Shimla- 322 km
Chamba
Chamba, the land of antiquity, art and scenic beauty, is a wonder in itself for every visitor. Situated at the height of 996 m. above sea level on the south bank of the Ravi River, the ancient Pahari capital was founded in 920 A.D. by Raja Sahil Varman, who named it after his favourite daughter Champavati. Chamba valley is noted for the magnificence of it's scenery-touching the fringe of the Shivaliks and having three well-defined snowy ranges, the Dauladhar, constituting the outer Himalayas, the Pir Panjal or the mid Himalayas, and the Zanskar range or the inner Himalayas. The town of Chamba, the district headquarter of Chamba district is situated in the western Himalayas between north latitudes 32°10' and 33°13' and east longitudes 75°45' and 77°33'. Raja Sahil Varman founded this town when he conquered the lower Rani valley from the petty chiefs called Ranas and Thakurs in the beginning of 10th Century. In the bansauli or genealogical rolls of the Chamba Rajas a reference occurs of place which was adorned with highly fragrant Champaka trees and guarded by Goddess Champavati or more popularly known as Chameshni. The temple was built by Sahil Varman in the honour of his daughter Champavati who is worshipped as a goddess in Chamba. Champavati temple became the family temple of the ruling family. General InformationArea: 2.4 sq. km Altitude: 926 meters Climate: (deg C) SummerMax.39 Deg C Min.8 Deg C Winter Max.10 Deg CMin.1.1 Deg C The climate of Chamba in general is tempreate with well defined seasons. However, there may be variations because of micro-climatic systems depending upon altitude and mountain aspect. The winters last from December to February. March and April generally remain cool and dry but snowfall does occur at higher elevations during these months. The temperature begins to rise rapidly from the middle of April till last week of June or first week of July when monsoon breaks-in. Monsoon continues till the end of August or mid September. During the monsoon, the weather remains misty, humid and cloudy. October and November are comparatively dry but cold. The maximum temperature in Chamba town in summers is 38°C and the minimum in winter is 0°C. Clothing: Summer - Light woollens, winter - Heavy woollens Best Season: April to Mid July and Mid September to December The best season to visit Chamba is between April and October. Adventure tourists may like to undertake winter trekking from November to March when the higher reaches of the district are snow clad and access to most of the villages is on foot. Languages spoken: Pahari (Local Dialect), Hindi, English. Transport And CommunicationAir: Nearest airport is Amritsar - 200 km. Rail: Pathankot - 90 km is connected to major cities in India. Road: Chandigarh - 239 km, Delhi - 514 km, Dalhousie - 143 km, Jammu -197 km, Kangra - 18 km, Kullu - 214 km, Manali - 253 km, Palampur - 35 km, Shimla - 322 km. Bus and taxi service is available from Chamba to Pathankot, Delhi, Dharamsala, Shimla, Chandigarh, Jammu and most of the Punjab cities along the national highway. Fairs & Festivals Minjar Mela: Minjar is the most popular fair of Chamba, which is attended by a large number of people from every nook and corner of the district. This mela is held on the second Sunday of the Shravana month. The fair is announced by distribution of Minjar which is a silk tassel worn on some parts of the dress by men and women alike. This tassel symbolizes the shoots of paddy and maize, which make their appearance around this time of the year. The week long fair begins when the Minjar flag is hoisted in historical Chowgan. The town of Chamba wears a colourful look with every person turning out in best attire. Most part of the Chowgan is converted into markets and people do brisk business during this week. Sports and cultural programmers are organized. On the third Sunday the gaiety, colourfulness and enthusiasm reaches its crescendo when the colourful Minjar procession of the deities accompanied by dancing troupes, traditionally attired locals, traditional drum beaters along with Police and Home Guards band, begins its march from Akhand Chandi Palace for the venue near the Police Lines Nalhora. A great concourse of people is already assembled there. Earlier the Raja and now the chief guest throws a coconut, a rupee, a seasonal fruit and a Minjar tied in a red piece of cloth - Lohan - as offering to the river. All the people throwing their Minjars into the river follow this. The local artists sing traditional Kumjari-Malhar. Betel leaves and ittra are offered to everyone among the invitees as a gesture of respect and festivity. Until 1943, a live buffalo used to be pushed into the river to propitiate it. It if was carried away and drowned, the event was regarded as propitious, the sacrifice having been accepted. If it crossed the river and reached the other bank, that also was auspicious, as it was believed that all the sins of the town were transferred to the other side of the river. Minjar fair has been declared as one of the state fairs of Himachal Pradesh. Wide coverage is given on TV and print media. Undoubtedly Chamba is at its very best during this fair that generally falls in the month of July/ August. Chamba's annual Suhi Mata Festival, which lasts for four days in early April, commemorates Rani Champavati, the wife of the 10th century Raja Sahil Verma. Only women and children participate in the festival, dancing on the Chowgan before processing with an image of Champavati and banners of the Rajput solar emblem to the Suhi Mata temple.
Kullu Valley
Kullu was once known as Kulanthpitha, which means the end of the habitable world. Beyond rose the forbidding heights of the Greater Himalayas, and by the banks of the shining river Beas, lay the fabled 'Silver Valley'. The 'Silver Valley' has nature's treasures that lie carelessly scattered as flowers on the high meadows.The Valley of Gods, as the Kullu Valley has come to be known, is perhaps the most delightful region in the Western Himalayas. Situated on the banks of the river Beas, Kullu town, the headquarters of the district, serves as a nerve centre of the valley and is the starting place for a number of treks.General InformationArea: 6.68 sq. km Altitude: 1219 meters Climate: (deg C) SummerMax.30.8 Deg C Min.18.8 Deg C WinterMax.16.4 Deg CMin.5.2 Deg C Rainfall: 102 cm Clothing: Summer - Light woollens, winter - Heavy woollens Best Season: Mid-March to Mid-November. Languages spoken: Pahari (Local Dialect), Hindi, English. TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATIONAir: Nearest airport is Bhuntar -50 km. Rail: Nearest railhead is Chandigarh -272 km. Road: Ambala -606 km, Chandigarh -556 km, Delhi -798 km, Pathankot -278 km, Shimla -240 km, Manali -40 km, Palampur -164 km, Rohtang Pass -91 km, Dharamshala -213 km, Dalhousie -334 km, Jogindarnagar -166 km.
Manali
Manali is the Northern end of the Kullu Valley and is the main resort in the area. It is beautifully situated and there are many pleasant walks around the town. Surrounded by towering peaks at arm length, Manali's major asset is its proximity to the snowline, never more than few hours drive from the town nestling at comfortable 2050meters. It is the centre of the flourishing orchard industry a popular honeymoon destination and trailhead for numerous treks. GENERAL INFORMATIONArea: 5.12 sq. km Altitude: 1926 meters Climate: (deg C) SummerMax.25 Deg CMin.12 Deg C WinterMax.14.5 Deg CMin.2 Deg C Rainfall: 102 cm Clothing: Summer - Light woollens Winter - Heavy woollens Best Season: April to Mid-July and Sep. to Nov. Languages spoken: Pahari (Local Dialect), Hindi, English TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATIONAir: Nearest airport is Bhuntar - 50 km. Rail: Nearest railhead is Chandigarh - 272 km. Road: Jogindarnagar - 166 km, Shimla - 240 km, Delhi - 611 km.
Shimla
In the days before independence, Shimla was the most important British hill station, and was the summer capital of British India. The British in 1819 A.D first discovered Shimla, but it was not until 1822 A.D that the first permanent house was erected and not until many years later that Shimla became the summer capital. The name Shimla is derived from the Himalayan Goddess Shamla a synonym of Kali. General InformationArea: 18 sq. km Altitude: 2213 meters Climate: (deg C) SummerMax.27 Deg CMin.16.5 Deg C WinterMax.16.5 Deg CMin.5.2 Deg C Clothing: Summer - Light woollens, winter - Heavy woollens Best Season: April to Mid-July, Mid-September to Mid-November Languages spoken: Pahari (Local Dialect), Hindi, English TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATIONAir: Nearest airport is Kullu- 23 km Rail: Nearest railhead is Kalka- 90 km. Road: Chandigarh- 117 km, Kullu- 220 km, Manali- 260 km, Delhi- 343 km, Pathankot- 380 km, Ambala- 151 km, Chail- 43 km, Dehradun- 240 km etc.
Dalhousie
Dalhousie is named after the British Governor - General of the 19th century Lord Dalhousie. The town's height varies between 1525m and 2378m and is surrounded by varied vegetation. Dalhousie has charming colonial architecture, including some beautiful churches. The spectacular snow-covered Dhauladhar Mountains are also visible from this enchanting town. GENERAL INFORMATIONArea: 13 sq. km Altitude: 2036 meters Climate: (deg C) SummerMax.23 Deg C Min.15.5 Deg C WinterMax.10 Deg CMin.1 Deg C Clothing: Summer - Light woollens, winter - Heavy woollens Best Season: April to November Languages spoken: Pahari (Local Dialect), Hindi, English TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATIONAir: Nearest airport is Amritsar- 118 km & Jammu- 188 km. Rail: Nearest railhead is Pathankot- 80 km. Road: Amritsar- 188 km, Jalandhar- 192 km, Pathankot- 80 km, Chamba- 56 km, Manali- 402 km, Delhi- 563 km, Chandigarh- 352 km, Dharamshala- 143 km, Khajjiar- 27 km, Jammu-188 km. Bus and taxi service is available from Chamba to Pathankot, Delhi, Dharamsala, Shimla, Chandigarh, Jammu and most of the Punjab cities along the national highway.
Kinnaur
Kinnaur, the land of the mythological Kinnaras is a deeply laced-in terrain along the Sutlej River with many side valleys, by which the district is thoroughly divided. Due to its geographical setting, Kinnaur has two distinct climatic zones - the wet and the arid. Only the area south of the Great Himalaya (Sutlej and Baspa valleys) receives monsoon rains. In the upper reaches of the district, the monsoon showers progressively decrease. Recong Peo, the district headquarters may be considered as a place where the Great Himalayan range obstructs the march of the monsoon. From this point on the vegetation rapidly becomes sparser ultimately to remain only along the Sutlej River. The harsh winter with heavy snowstorms lasts from October to May leaving only June to September for the short summer and vegetation to grow. A rare style of wood architecture finds its climax in the temple of Sarahan, located at the border between the Shimla hills and Lower Kinnaur. The southern area of Kinnaur may be regarded as a transition zone between Hinduism of the Indian plains, a unique animism of local kind - especially snake worship - and Buddhism, prevalent in the hills. At the village of Pooh, one enters the cultural realm of Tibet. Although the climatic conditions may be considered as extremely hard the people of Kinnaur are well acclimatised to their surroundings bearing strong yet fine natural features and characteristics typical for all mountain folks. In the regions below Kalpa their faces reveal Persian influences which may be derived from the armies of Alexander the Great having reached as far as here and having settled and mixed with the locals. In the northern areas the Tibetan features dominate. Therefore also the habits vary south and north of this "monsoon-border", both being equally unique, not only in architecture but also in languages of their own and a rich heritage of folk and fairy tales, songs, dances, festivities, fairs, costumes and ornaments. General InformationClimate: This region is called as cold desert and not having monsoon. In winter the temperature can drop below freezing point when heavy woollens are required, in summer the weather remains pleasant when light woollens are advised. Access Nearest Airports are at Kullu (Bhunter) 250 km and Shimla 445 km. Kaza can be approached by road from Shimla (May to October) and from Manali 200 km via Kunzum Pass (June to October). AccommodationThe Tourist Lodge Kaza is an ideal base to make sorties to discover the beautiful valley of Spiti. Address. Tourist Lodge, Kaza-172114, spiti Sub Division, H.P. Tel. : (01906) 222566. Accommodatian: 4 DBRs and Tented Colony with 5 tents.Facilities Spacious rooms having attached bath with running hot and cold water. Parking within premises. Restaurant. Places of Interest Recong Peo : (2670m) located 240 kms from Shimla, 7 kms from Powari and 13 kms from Kalpa. Recong Peo is the Headquarter of the district Kinnaur. Provides fine view of the Kinner Kailash. Kothi : Just 3 km from Recong Peo Kothi has an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Chanadika Devi. Set against a backdrop of mountains of deodar the temple has an unusual ard1itectural style and fine sculpture. An exquisite gold image of the goddess is enshrined in the sanctrum. Sangla Valley: If a landscape had the powers of casting spells, then the Sangla Valley would be a magician-extraordinary. Once seen, it is a place that can never be forgotten. Even the rushing waters of the Baspa River, that flows through its 95 km length, seem to absorb some of the magic and slow down to savour its Snow-framed beauty. 2 km from Sangla is the fort of Kamru (3000m) its tower like architecture, resembles that of the Bhimakali complex and this was the original seat of the rulers of Bushehar. Chitkul (3450) is the last village of the Valley and beyond lies Tibet. The area is well known for its saffron farms and the Baspa river is an excellent place for angling for trout. The Hotel shrikhand acts as the perfect base to visit the enchanting valley. Rlba (2745m) ; Just 18km from Powari on NH-22 is Riba, famous for its vineyards and local wine " Angoori" that is made from the grapes. Jangi (2790m) : 26 km from Powari, the inner border is located here beyond which foreigners require permit to travel upto Tabo. From this point the famous Kinner Kailash Parikarama Trek starts touching Morang. Thangi and Kunocharang villages and entering Chitkul village in sangla Valley. From here one can drive to Leh in the neighbouring state of Jammu and Kashmir. This road is being increasingly used by tourists to Leh for the past 5-6 years. If Kinnaur is "god's gift," then Spiti is the place "where the gods live." The gompa at Tabo is called the "Ajanta of the Himalayas" as it has exquisite frescoes and stucco statues. The monastic complex here has nine temples, 23 chortens, monks' and nuns' chambers. Tabo's sanctity, in transHimalayan Buddhism, is next only to Tibet's Tholing gompa. Further above is Kaza, the base to visit the Hikim, Komik and Langja monasteries. En route from Tabo is Dhankar gompa, a masterpiece of local architecture as also castle of the ruler of Spiti. Still further is an important monastery at Ki and Kibber (4,205 metres above sea level) is the region's highest permanently inhabited village connected by a motorable road. Puh (2837m) : Lush green fields orchards of apricot vineyards and almond trees, are to be seen on the route of Puh. Just 58 km from Powari along the NH-22, Puh has rest house and hotel facilities. Nako (3662m) :117 km from Kalpa. In Hangrang valley is the largest village above sea level. It is also famous for Nako Lake which has boating facilities in summer and during winter its frozen surface is used for ice skating. Buddhist monastery is located here. KAZA: (3600m) Once was the capital of Nono the chief of spiti, Kaza situated at an altitude of 3600m above sea level on the left bank of Spiti, presently is the Head quarter of spiti Sub Division. This beautiful place has buddhist monastery and Hindu Temple.
Dharamshala
Dharamshala is the district HQ of Kangra district. This is a hill station lying on the spur of the Dhauladhar range about 18 kms north east of Kangra town. Hill station is wooded with oak and conifer trees and snow-capped mountains enfold three sides of the town while the valley stretches in front. The snow line is perhaps more easily accessible at Dharamshala than at any other hill resort and it is possible to trek to snow point after an early morning's start. In 1905, tragedy struck Dharamshala when an earthquake levelled it completely. After its reconstruction, Dharamshala flourished as a quiet health resort. It is divided into two distinct parts. Lower Dharamshala has civil offices and business establishments with courts. Kotwali Bazar and Upper Dharamshala compose of places with names, which bear witness to its history like McLeod Ganj and Forsythe Ganj. Since 1960, when it became a temporary hqr of His Holiness The Dalai Lama, Dharamshala has risen to international fame as "The Little Lhasa in India". General InformationArea: 13 sq. km Altitude: 1250 meters to 1600 meters Climate: (deg C) SummerMax.33 Deg C Min.22 Deg C WinterMax.15 Deg CMin.0 Deg C Clothing: Summer - Light woollens Winter - Heavy woollens Best Season: April to June and September to November Languages spoken: Hindi, Punjabi, English and Pahari are understood & spoken by the people engaged in tourism trade Shopping Centres: Kotwali Bazar, a general shopping area, and McLeod Ganj for Tibetan handicrafts Transport And CommunicationAir: Nearest airport is Amritsar at 200 km. Rail: Pathankot - 90 km is connected to major cities in India. Road: Chandigarh- 239 km, Delhi- 514 km, Dalhousie- 55 km, Jammu-197 km, Kangra- 18 km, Kullu- 214 km, Manali -253 km, Palampur- 35 km, Shimla- 322 km
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