Kullu Excursions

Katrain

Located at the altitude of 1463 meters above sea level and around twenty kilometers from the city of Kullu, Katrain is in center of the valley. The place is quite known for its apple orchards and trout hatcheries, which lend charm and prominence to the ambience.

Naggar

Erstwhile capital of Kullu, Naggar is located on the left bank of the river Beas and commands an extensive view of the surrounding vistas. There are a large number of famous temples here, notably of Lord Vishnu, Tripura Sundari & Lord Krishna. Roerich art gallery, which houses the paintings of Nicholas Roerich as well as his sculptures, is less than a km from the here. Naggar is also a base for undertaking treks to Chanderkhani Pass and to remote valley of Malana.

Kasol

Located on the bank of river Parvati, at the height of 1640 meters, Kasol is a perfect sojourn. Its location is extremely attractive. With wide and open environs, which slope down to the broad expanse of clear white sand at the Parvati River, the place is an excellent place for a peaceful picnic.

Malana

Situated at the altitude of 2652 meters and near the beautiful Chanderkhani Pass, Malana village is famous for the temple of Jamlu, apart from its distinct, social and cultural life. Malana has sustained its democratic setup and it is considered to be the oldest democracy in the world.

Larji

Situated at 957 meter above the sea level and in south of Kulu, at the distance of 34 kilometers, Larji is a small hamlet providing excellent spot for trout fishing. The PWD rest house is located in a stunning position between the foaming torrents of the river Sainj & Tirthan, before they join the Beas. Mostly anglers patronize the place.

Basheshwar Mahadev Mandir

Situated 200 meters above the sea level, the temple is a bit away from the village, in a plain between the main road and the Beas River. According to the sources, the local rulers built the temple in 8th century.

Manikaran

Located at the altitude of 1700 meters and at the distance of 45 kilometers from Kullu, Manikaran is famous for its hot springs. Thousands of pilgrims come here each year, to take a dip into the spring and feel heavenly. The water is so hot that dal, rice, etc. can also be cooked in it. Ramchandra and Shivaji temples and a Gurdwara for Sikhs are other major attractions at the place............
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How to Reach Kullu

Air

Kullu has an airport of its own, known as Bhunter airport, which is siatuted at a distance of approximately 10 kilometers distance from the main town. Indian Airlines and Jagson Airlines operate flights to places like Delhi and Shimla, round the year. It takes hardly 90 minutes to reach Kullu from Delhi, by air. From the airport, one can easily get taxis fo reaching the main town.

Rail

Joginder Nagar is the closest railhead from Kullu, situated at the distance of 125 km. Other than this, Pathankot at 285 km, Simla at 270 km, Chandigarh at 267 km, and Kalka are other major railheads near the place that offer excellent traveling facilities. There are regular buses from these places, making it very easy travelers to reach Kullu.

Road

Kullu is well connected with major cities of the state, along with the nearby ones, like Delhi and Chandigarh. The distance from Delhi is 522 km approximately, with Ambala, Chandigarh, Ropar, Kiratpur, Bilaspur and Mandi as the main stations on the way. Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) provides excellent transportation facility for travelers, along with some private transporters............
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Dharamsala Excursions

Chinmaya Tapovan

Just 10-km from the town is the tranquil ashram complex set up by the great exponent of the Gita--Swami Chinmayananda. Situated on the banks of Bindu Saras, the ashram includes a 9m high image of Hanuman, a Ram temple, a meditation hall, a school and a health & recreation center. 

Dharamkot

Dharamkot is the starting point for the short walks to the high plateau at Triund (2,975m), or further over the high passes to the Chamba valley. 

Kareri

Set amidst a sylvan surrounding is a rest house, located in the cool depths of the pine grove. Surrounded by green open meadows and forests of tall oak & pine at a height of 3250m is situated the picturesque Kareri Lake, which is just 13-km from the rest house and 22- kms from Dharamsala. 

Tatwani & Machhrial (25Km.) : There are hot springs situated at Tatwani, 25-km from Dharamsala but on the way, at Machhrial, is a waterfall twice as big as the one near the Bhagsunath temple. 

The Shrine of Bhagsunath

Just 11-km from the town center of Dharamsala is the ancient temple of Bhagsunath. There are many fresh water springs close to the temple, which are considered sacred by the Hindus. 

Trilokpur

On the way from Pathankot, 41-km from Dharamsala are the unique cave temples with a stalactite and stalagmites dedicated to Lord Shiva. 

Triund

Triund is a popular picnic spot at an height of 2827 m. The area is on the foothills of Dhauladhar range and is 17-kms from Dharamsala. The snow line starts at Ilaqua, which is five kms from Triund. The breathtaking views of the mountains and the valleys makes Triund an ideal picnic spot and trekking spot............
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How to Reach Dharamsala

Air

Dharamsala can be approached by air from Delhi and the nearest Airport is at Gaggla, just 13-km away from the town. 

Rail

Pathankot is 85-km and is the nearest railhead for Dharamsala. Trains from all over the country make a stop over at Pathankot and from here it is a three-hour journey to Dharamsala. 

Road

From Manali too bus services are available to this place. One can drive from Delhi via Chandigarh, Kiratpur, Bilaspur and it's an 8-hours journey. From Delhi and Shimla, luxury buses ply to Dharamsala............
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Dalhousie Excursions

Subhash Baoli

Located around two kilometers away from Subhash squire in Dalhousie, the place offers a magnificent view of the snowcapped peaks in nearby surroundings. The place has historical importance, as it is linked with the famous freedom fighter ‘Subhash Chandra Bose’.

Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary

The sanctuary is full of versatile flora and fauna. Ghoral, Himalayan black bear and barking deer are some major creatures that can be glimpsed in the sanctuary. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary also offers good trekking & mountaineering opportunities to travelers, for further exploration of nature as well as adventure. 

Khajjiar

Located around 27 kilometers from Dalhousie, Khajjiar is a major tourist attraction. The place is named after the twelfth-century, golden-vaulted temple of Khajinag. The place has picturesque lakes, magnificent meadow, and exotic architecture, which make it truly enchanting.

Gandhi Chowk and Subhash Chowk

Gandhi Chowk

Both these spots are market places, full of attractions for shopping, with historical importance. Shops and restaurant situated near Gandhi Chowk show the lifestyle of Dalhousie. Similarly, Subhash Chowk houses Himachal Handloom Industry showrooms, where travelers shop for indigenous artifacts and products.

Dainkund

The playground of Beas, Ravi and Chenab rivers, Dainkund is beautifully located in sub-Himalayan range of mountains. It forms the largest slope in Dalhousie. The place offers panoramic overview to the travelers. A temple dedicated to some indigenous goddess is also there............
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Khajjiar, Himachal Pradesh

The grassy meadow of Khajjiar is situated at a distance of approximately 22 km from Dalhousie and 23 from Chamba. 1.5 km long and 1.0 km broad, this tiny town is shaped like a saucer and has seven emerald-turf meadows surrounded by dense pine and deodar and high mountains. It even has a small lake that is fed by streams flowing through the spongy green carpet of Khajjiar. Often known as 'Gulmarg of Himachal Pradesh', it has been aptly described by Hutchinson as - "Khajjiar is a forest glade of great beauty, 6,400 feet above sea level".

In 1992, Mr. Willy T. Blazer, Vice Counselor and Head of Chancery of Switzerland in India, named Khajjiar 'Mini Switzerland of India' and put a signboard of a yellow Swiss hiking footpath that displays the distance of Khajjiar from the Swiss capital 'Berne' as 6,194 km. With this, Khajjiar became one of the 160 locations in the world that resemble the topography of Switzerland and one of its stones became the part of the stone collage around the Swiss Parliament, which represents Khajjiar as the 'Mini Switzerland of India'.

Khajjiar was a part of the erstwhile state of the Rajput rulers of Chamba. In the 6th century, it served as the capital of the Chamba rulers. Thereafter, it was taken over by the Mughals, from which the rule passed over to various Sikh kingdoms. Finally, British control was established over Khajiar and with the independence, the hill station became a part of the state of Himachal Pradesh. The picturesque beauty of the place, along with its nine-hole golf course, has given a boost of its travel and tourism industry. 

Transport

Places to See:

Khajinag Temple (Golden Devi Temple)

The town of Khajjiar has been named after its ancient temple of Khajinag. Situated near the famous Khajjiar Lake, this temple dates back to as far back as the 12th century. The temple stands adorned with a golden dome and spire, which has led to the temple often being called as the 'Golden Devi' temple. It has wooden sanctum with intricate carvings. The 'mandapam' of Khajinag Temple has images of the Pandavas and the defeated Kaurvas, seen on the roof of the circumambulatory path of the temple. The temple attracts many devotees and tourists alike.

Khajjiar Lake

Khajjiar Lake is a small lake, surrounded by saucer-shaped lush green meadow and a floating island. The dense growth of weed called 'vacha' has made its earth spongy. Now the banks stand covered by a thick layer of earth, formed by the years of dust settling down on the weeds.

Golf Course

One of the major attractions of Khajjiar is its huge nine-hole golf course. People visiting the valley of Chamba make sure to visit Khajjiar and enjoy the sport for a while............
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Khajjiar Lake

Located at an altitude of 1900 meters, in Chamba district, the lake is perfect for indulging in sight seeing. It is situated in the center of large Khajjar glade, arpund 16 km from Dalhousie and 25 km from Chamba. Khajjar Lake gets water from many tiny streams. Apart from being known for its scenic beauty, the lake has religious relevance too. Hindus believe that the lake belongs to the Lord Khajjinag. This is the reason why Hindu devotees come around this area, in large numbers, to worship the Lord.

Tourists from all across the world flock in to see this lake, which remains full of water in all the seasons and does not require rainwater for survival. The lake is like a magical paradise, especially with its lush green mountains, diversity of flora and fauna and more importantly the tranquil surroundings it provides to the tourists. The place is so beautiful and gives such a panoramic view that sometimes back; Swiss Ambassador called Khajjiar a ‘Mini Switzerland.’ 

Thick forest covering the Khajjar Lake adds to its magnificent look. The forest, which has been turned into a sanctuary, houses many wild animals. Migrant birds flock at this place and give it a wonderful diversity in fauna. Many villages, scattered in distances from each other, surround the place. These villages have still preserved their tradition and culture. Travelers can visit these villages for further experience of life and culture of Himachal.

Any sunny day in Khajjar Lake is perfect for horse riding. Moving through the lush green valley on horseback is a fascinating experience. Travelers can also see the famous ‘Panch Pandava Tree’. It is tree that has the same root, but its base divided into five sections. Kailash Mountain, the abode of God Shiva, is falls near Khajjar Lake and on a sunny day, travelers can easily have a glimpse of it from the embankment............
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How to Reach Khajjiar

Air

The nearest airport from Khajjar is that of Gaggal in Kangra, situated at a distance of 180 km. Travelers can take a flight till Gaggal airport and from there, board taxis and buses available for reaching Khajjar. After the Gaggal airport, the ones in Jammu and Amritsar are the next best options, especially with their connectivity with the rest of India.

Road

Khajjar is well connected with most of the cities of the state with well-developed and sophisticated roads. This place is easily accessible by road and is hardly about one and a half hours driving from Dalhousie and Chamba. Himachal Road Transport Corporation operates bus services, connecting Khajjar with the major cities in and around the state.

Rail

Pathankot is the nearest railhead for traveling to Khajjar. The place is situated at a distance of 80 km from the hill resort. Almost all the main stations of India are connected with this railway station. Buses and taxis could be boarded to reach Khajjar from Pathakot. Chandigarh and Delhi are two big cities near Khajjar, you can start your journey from............
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How to Reach Dalhousie

Air

Air journey to Dalhousie is time saving and comfortable, in comparison to other two modes of transportations. As there are no airports in Dalhousie, near by cities offer excellent network of airports, from where tourists can take road transport for reaching Dalhousie. The nearest air terminal from Dalhousie is located in Gaggal, in the Kangra district, at a distance of 135 km from. Amritsar and Jammu and Kashmir are other near by airstrips that can be availed.

Rail

Traveling to Dalhousie by train is cost effective and experience enriching, for you meet and interact with diverse people and enhance your horizon by knowing their culture and tradition and language. Pathankot is the nearest railhead from Dalhousie. From Pathankot, a large number of trains are available to different cities of India. Once at Pathankot, tourists can hire taxis or buses, available at regular intervals, from here to Dalhousie.

Road

As Dalhousie neither has an airport nor a railway station, roads are the only available modes of direct transport. The place is well connected with other major cities of the region, with well-maintained roads. Dalhousie is 145 km from Chamba, 190 km from Amritsar and 235 km from Simla. It has excellent bus service, offered by state transport departments and private tour operators, for reaching all the key cities with and outside the state............
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Mandi, Himachal Pradesh

The historic town of Mandi, Himachal Pradesh is built along the banks of the river Beas. It has long been an important commercial centre and the sage Mandva is said to have meditated here. This one time capital of the princely state of Mandi is a fast developing town that still retains much of its original charm and character. Today, it is a district headquarters. Mandi is renowned for its 81 old stone temples and their enormous range of fine carving, it is often called the 'Varanasi of the Hills'. The town has remains of old palaces and notable examples of 'colonial' architecture. The temples of Bhutnath, Trilokinath, Panchvaktra and Shyamakali are among the more famous ones. The week long international Shivratri fair in Mandi is the major attraction of the area every year. In the year 2011 the fair was celebrated from 3rd-9th March. In the fair the activities like cultural programmes in the evenings, exhibitions, sports etc. are the major attractions for the tourists as well as locals.

Pandoh Fall, Mandi

Punchvaktr (Five Headed Ling) Shiva Temple

Hanogi Mata Temple, Mandi

Triloki Nath Temple

Panchvaktra Temple

Pangna Fort

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Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh

Dalhousie is known as the gateway to the Chamba Valley. It was named after Lord Dalhousie, the then Viceroy of India, who established this town in 1854. This place provides stunning views of plains and snow-capped mountainous ranges. It is situated towards the western edge of the hills and east of River Ravi in Himachal Pradesh. Old colonial-era buildings, low roofed stalls and hotels dot the town while paths and treks on slopes with alpine vegetation are excellent for short strolls. Gifted with natural beauty, Dalhousie attracts many tourists every year. Its natural surroundings and tourist attractions have rapidly increased travel and tourism here.

The lingering old-world charm of colonial era reminds us of the times when British took hold of the reins of this city from Raja of Chamba. Dalhousie is famous for its public schools. The evergreens here include huge pine trees, deodars, oaks and rhododendron plants. Its old churches from British Raj are worth a visit. Nestled between high mountains of Dhauladhar range and Pir Panjal Mountains of Kashmir to the north, plains of Punjab to the south and views of meandering River Ravi make Dalhousie an attractive tourist destination.

Transport

Places to See:

Satdhara

'Satdhara' or seven springs situated on the way to Panjpulla are reputed to have medicinal properties as its water contains 'mica', known as 'Gandhak' in the local language. It is a popular tourist attraction of Dalhousie and a must visit if you are traveling to this place.

Jandhri Ghat

Situated at an altitude of 2036 meters, the palace of erstwhile royalty of Chamba at Jandhri Ghat was the governing point for the rulers before Dalhousie went into the hands of British. There are a number of trophies that can be seen here. The streamlets and tall pine trees provide some beautiful picnic spots here.

Panjpulla

Located at a distance of 2 kilometers from Dalhousie, Panjpulla or a memorial with five bridges is a popular tourist attraction. It has a natural tank and calming surroundings. There are several small natural pools here that are fed by perennial streams. It was built in the memory of Sardar Ajit Singh, the famous freedom fighter of India.

Bakrota Hills

Quite close to Dalhousie, the Bakrota Hills provides breathtaking views of snow-clad peaks and the walling circuit around the hill known as the 'Round' is a popular destination among locals.

St. Andrew's Church

Built in the year 1903, St. Andrew's Church is a popular tourist attraction in Dalhousie. It was constructed due to the efforts of Protestant Christians. The Church is located at a distance of approximately one and half km from the bus stand of Dalhousie. Though quite old, the building of the church is still in a very good condition.

St. Patrick's Church

St. Patrick's Church is situated in Baloon, falling under the area known as the Dalhousie Cantonment. It lies approximately two km from the bus stand and holds the distinction of being the largest church of the hill station. St. Patrick's Church dates back to the year 1909 and its main hall has a seating capacity of 300 persons. The funds for the construction of the Church were contributed by the officers and ranks of the British Army.

St. Francis Church

Situated on the Subhash Chowk, St. Francis Church is one of the prominent monuments of Dalhousie. Army officers as well as civilians contributed money for the construction of the church. Built in the year 1894, the church is being maintained by the Catholic Diocese of Jalandhar. Beautiful glass work and intricate stone work serve as some of the major attractions of the St. Francis Church. 

Excursions...........
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Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh

Dharamsala is a city in the upper reaches of the Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh and is surrounded by dense coniferous forest consisting mainly of stately Deodars. The suburbs of the town includes -- McLeod Ganj, Bhagsu Nath, Forsyth Ganj, Naddi, Kotwali Bazaar (the main market of the town), Kaccheri Adda (government offices such as the court, police, post etc.), Dari, Ramnagar, Sidhpur and Sidhbari (where the Karmapa Lama is based).

The village of McLeod Ganj lying in the upper reaches is known worldwide for the presence of the Dalai Lama. On 29 April 1959, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama established the Tibetan exile administration in the north Indian hill station of Mussoorie. In May 1960, the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) was moved to Dharamsala. Since then, the Dalai Lama along with his people have been residing in Dharamsala. Dharamsala over looks the plains and is surrounded by dense pine trees and Deodar forests. A nearby snowline with numerous streams and cool healthy atmosphere makes the surroundings very attractive. A busy bazaar town, Dharamsala has established itself as the travellers base camp, who come to explore the nearby mountains. The Kotwali Bazaar provides the entire colour and characteristic of a small town, which is mixed with the simple life style.

The colourful temple and Gompas, which reflect the culture of Tibet, adds attraction for the visitor. The Kangra museum gives an overview of the rich past of the region and on the other hand there are institutes that have been established to preserve the Tibetan art, cultures and traditions. 

Today, Dharamsala has become the synonymous to the Tibetan government in exile and the home of Tibetan leader Dalai Lama. Even if the Tibetan community dominates the town, still it has retained the colonial lifestyle and British fervour.

Transport

Places To See:

Gyote Ramoche Monastery

St. John'S Church In Wilderness

7-km upward from Dharamsala, between Forsyth Ganj and Mcleod Ganj lies the charming St. John's Church. It was built in 1852 and is dressed in grey stone with some fine Belgian stained glass windows donated by Lady Elgin. The church is popularly known as the church of St. John in Wilderness. 

Chamunda Devi Temple

Not far from Dharamsala is the famous temple of Chamunda Devi. It is an enchanting spot with glorious views of the mountains, the Baner Khud, Pathiar and Lahla forests. 15-km from Dharamsala a tiny village of Dadh on Palampur road is the famous temple dedicated to Goddess Chamunda Devi.

Maharana Pratap Sagar

Named in honour of the great patriot 'Maharana Pratap' (1572 - 97 AD), the Maharana Pratap Sagar was once known as the 'Pong Dam Reservoir'.

Norbulinka Institute

Just 4-kms from Dharamsala is Norbulinka. This place has heavy Japanese influence. The Norbulingka Institute of Tibetan Culture was founded by the Department of Religion and Culture to preserve and promote Tibetan art and culture in exile

Nurpur Fort

Orginally known as Dhameri, 66-km from Dharamsala and 24-km from Pathankot, Nurpur Fort was renamed by the Emperor Jehangir, son of the Great Moghul Jalal-Ud-Din Mohammad Akbar. The fort is now in its ruins, but still has some finely carved reliefs. 

Tsug-Lag-Khang (Central Cathedral)

Though a plain and utilitarian substitute for its far more splendid namesake in Lhasa, also known as the Jokhang, the Tsug-Lag-Khang is nevertheless fascinating and peaceful. Situated opposite the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Tsug-Lag-Khang is known to the local Indians as the Main Temple. 

Andretta

Situated just 13-kms away from Palampur, lies this dwelling place of artist S.Sobha Singh. It houses a gallery of some of his major works and a pottery center. 

Dal Lake

Surrounded by high and green Deodar trees is the lake, which fills a mountain bowl. Situated 11-kms away from the town, this lake is easily approachable by road and makes an enchanting and serene picnic spot. 

Dharmkot

Just 11-km away from Dharamsala, located on the crest of a hill lie this attractive picnic spot, which presents a panoramic view of the Kangra valley and Dauladhar ranges.

Kunal Pathri

These are the rock temples from which the place derives its name. Kunal pathri is a 3 kms flat walk from Kotwali Bazaar. 

Lord Elgin's Memorial

After the honors of 1857, India's First War of independence, Queen Victoria assumed the title of Empress of India. Her Prime Minister, Lord Canning made the proclamation and the Governor General's title was raised to that of Viceroy of India.

Moodabidri

Moodabidri, 23 kms from Venur described as Jaina Kashi, is known for the 18 bastis, the most famous of them being 'Savira Kambada Basti' (Basti with thousand pillars). Built in 1430 AD, this basti has beautiful monolith columns and priceless collection of jewel-studded metal images of Jain Tirthankaras. 

Namgyal Monastery

In 1575 Sonam Gyatso, the Third Dalai Lama, officially founded a monastery, which later came to be known as Namgyal Dratsang (Victorious Monastery). Since its inception, the monastery has assisted the Dalai Lamas in their public religious activities for the welfare of Tibet.

Pong Lake Sanctuary

Pong Dam reservoir is 65-km from Panthankot and 115-km from Dharamsala on the Beas River. The Pong Dam Lake is significant for a wildlife sanctuary with wild life species like Nilgai, Sambar, Barking Deer, Wild Buar, Clawless Otter, and Leapord. The reservoir is developed on a large scale for promoting water sports for tourists.

Venur

Venur 30 kms from Dharamsala, is famous for the Gomateshwara statue built in 1605 AD by an Ajila Prince.


Excursions...........
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