Kunzum Pass

Kunzum Pass is a beautiful mountain pass in the Kunzum Range of Himalayas. Located at an altitude of 15,060 feet above sea level, the Kunzum Pass is a breathtaking sight to behold. One of the exciting features of the pass is the fifteen hairpin turns along the way.

Kunzum Devi Temple

The Kunzum Pass is one of the highest motorable passes of India and acts as a connection link between the Lahaul Valley and the Spiti valley. It is located at a distance of 122 km from Manali town and further leads to Kaza town. Beautiful glaciers, snow-clad peaks and the valley beyond give exquisite views for photography.

Kunzum La

One of the biggest challenges of traveling towards Kunzum La is the numerous water streams on the way, fed by glacial melt and the rains.

Streams on the way

Chandrabhaga Range

The Chandrabhaga range is a part of the Himalayas located near Kunzum Pass. At an altitude of 6264 meters above sea level, the range provides an excellent spot for trekking and hiking expeditions. Every year, trekking expeditions are conducted as it is one of the well-known summits of the world.

Chandrabhaga Peak

Chandrabhaga Peak Trek

Chandra Taal

This is a beautiful lake of Spiti valley located near the Kunzum Pass at an altitude of 4300 meters. The name Chandra refers to moon in Hindi and the lake is named the same because of its crescent shape. The lake is located in the plateau of Samudra Tapu. Travellers can trek to this beautiful lake from the Kunzum Pass.

Chandratal Lake

Lahaul valley

 This is a beautiful valley dotted with mountain villages and eye-catching Buddhist art. Located near the Kunzum pass, the road connects it to Spiti valley. Tourist visiting Lahaul get mesmerised by the lush greenery, high mountains and beautiful rivers streaming along the valley.  

Hair pin bends in the Valley

Spiti Valley

 Spiti in Tibetan means ‘middle land’, referring to the ground between India and Tibet. The Spiti Valley is a freezing desert mountain valley spanning across the Himalayas. One of the least populated areas of the country, Spiti Valley gives access to the northernmost parts of India. The valley also houses Buddhist monasteries and is an even a research centre for Buddhism. 

Village Kaza in Spiti valley

Bara Shigri Glacier

The Kunzum Pass gives an eye-catching view of the Bara Shigri Glacier. This glacier with snow clad mountains at the backdrop is a mesmerising sight to behold. This glacier feeds the River Chenab which originates in India and flows into neighboring country Pakistan. 30-km long glacier with an area of 125 sq kms, it is the largest glacier in Himachal Pradesh and second-longest glacier in the Himalayas after Gangotri. It flows northwards and feeds the Chenab river through Chandra river and forms the famous ‘Chandrataal’ lake.

Bara Shigri Glacier

You can read in detail about Kunzum Pass and surrounding areas here . This site has some amazing pictures too.

  This post is part of    #BlogchatterA2Z 2023 . You can read previous posts here A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

© Deepika

Yol

Yol is a cantonment town in Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh.

The town gets its name from YOL (Young Officers Living), a small town established by British Indian Army around 1849. The Yol Cantt. (cantonment) was built in 1942. Formerly it was known as “majhaitha” village.

Yol was the location of a Prisoner-of-war camp which hosted German soldiers in the First World War and Italian soldiers in the Second World War. Frogman Elios Toschi, a member of the pre-Armistice Decima Flottiglia MAS and inventor of the “maiale”, was one of the very few to escape from the camp. After the war, the former POW facility hosted ethnic Tibetan refugees from China.

Rising Star peak as seen from Yol

Yol is situated 10 km southwest of Dharamsala on the Dharamshala-Chamunda Devi-Palampur road and about 15 km northeast of Kangra town. The nearest railway station is Nagrota Bagwan about 12 km away in south on 762 mm (2 ft 6 in) narrow gauge railway line originating at Pathankot. The nearest broad gauge railhead is Pathankot. The nearest airport is Gaggal airport (IATA airport code DHM), also known as Kangra airport, about 15 km to the west through Dharamshala.

Visting the cantt.  isn’t allowed, but there are many other places of interest in Yol.

Namgyal Monastery

Often referred to as “Dalai Lama’s Temple”, is currently located in Mcleod Ganj, Dharamsala, India. It is the personal monastery of the 14^th Dalai Lama. Another name for this temple-complex is Namgyal Tantric College.

This monastery key role is to assist with rituals involving the Dalai Lama of Tibet. Its main tantric practices reportedly include those of Kalachakra, Yamantaka, Chakrasamvara, Guhyasamaja, and Vajrakilaya.

Kangra Fort

The Kangra Fort is located 20 kilometers from the town of Dharamsala on the outskirts of the town of Kangra, in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India.

The Kangra Fort was built by the ruling Katoch Rajput dynasty. Raja Dharam Chand submitted to the Mughal Ruler Akbar in 1556 and agreed to pay tribute, including, renouncing claims to the fort. But in 1620, Emperor Jahangir, killed that Katoch king, Raja Hari Chand and annexed the Kangra kingdom into the Mughal Empire. Under the leadership of Nawab Ali Khan and aided by Raja Jagat Singh , the fort was captured in 1620 and under Mughal rule until 1783. In 1621, Jahangir visited it. A mosque was also built within the fort of Kangra.

Slate Godam Village

The uphill village of Slate Godam is approximately 9 kilometres from the town of Dharamshala, situated in the foothills of Dhauladhar Mountains. It is a picturesque village which gets its name from the slate quarries. They however, still exist here even today. The area is surrounded by views of the snow clad peaks and boasts a mix of traditional and modern village houses, green fields in addition to green meadows and peaceful environs.

Mining of slate which is illegal now

Tulip Garden Palampur

Tulip Garden Palampur Himachal Pradesh it is the 2^nd Tulip garden in country after  Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir. This initiative is taken by CSIR-IHBT Palampur Himachal Pradesh. Tulip Garden Palampur is  open for Local and Tourist and it must be in your bucket list if you are planning to visit Himachal Pradesh. Palampur is famous for its lush green Tea Gardens, Abode of the Kargil War hero Captain Vikram Batra, Shoba Singh art gallery. Now Tulip Garden is must visit place in Palampur Himachal Pradesh for Tea Garden add Tulip Garden to your sightseeing. Tulip Garden is situated in CSIR-IHBT Palampur.

Timing : Closed for now till next bloom season.

Entry Fees :  No fee.

Bloom Season : Tulip Bloom Season March To May. But in Palampur it was a trial so bloom season was early till 15 March 2022 and now its closed till next Season.   

  This post is part of    #BlogchatterA2Z 2023 . You can read previous posts here A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X

© Deepika

X-Mas in Himachal Churches

X-Mas is common abbreviation for Christmas. The ‘X’ comes from the Greek letter Chi, which is the first letter of the Greek word Christós (Greek: “anointed, covered in oil”), which became Christ in English.  The suffix –mas is from the Latin-derived Old English word for Mass.

Christ Church Shimla

Christ Church is located in Shimla and stands tall on a ridge. Christ Church, built in 1857, is the second oldest church in North India after St. John Church in Meerut. It was designed by Colonel JT Boileau in 1844.

It was during the World War II that a priest in Germany appeared as Santa Clause and distributed sweets and a gift to the poor and needy and since then it is a practice to help the downtrodden,” said youth president of the church. The majestic church is famous for its antiquity.

The architecture is inspired by the Neo-Gothic style and the clock on the structure is a gift.

The church contains five fine stained glass windows. One represents the Christian virtues of Faith, Hope, Charity, Fortitude, Patience, and Humility. The chancel window was designed by Lockwood Kipling (father of Rudyard Kipling). The pipe-organ of Christ Church is the largest in the Indian subcontinent; it was installed in September 1899. Among the church’s holdings are a great collection of books and ancient scriptures.

 March to June is the best time to visit this church and from mid December to January it snows in Shimla you will find a beautiful view of the church and surroundings and you can celebrate Christmas in grandeur in this historic church.

St. John in the Wilderness

St. John in the Wilderness is a Protestant church dedicated to John the Baptist. It was built in 1852 and is located near Dharamshala, India, on the way to McLeod Ganj, at Forsyth Gunj. Set amidst deodar forest, and built in neo-Gothic architecture, the Church is known for its Belgian stained-glass windows donated by Lady Elgin (Mary Louisa Lambton), wife of Lord Elgin.

The beautiful church is a part of the colonial heritage. The church was a dedication to John the Baptist and built in the year 1852. It was a place of worship for the British troops that were placed here during that period. In 1905, a major earthquake hit the Kangra area and took the lives of around 19,800 people.

Most buildings in Kangra were completely destroyed but the church remained almost untouched except its bell tower which was partially broken. In 1915, a new bell was reinstalled. The graveyard surrounding the church is where Lord Elgin, Governor-General and Viceroy of India was buried in 1861.

Christ Church Kasauli

Kasauli is a town and cantonment, located in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh. The cantonment was established by the British Raj in 1842 as a Colonial hill station

At the end of October 1844 Dr. Wilson, the Bishop of Calcutta, paid his first visitation of Kasauli and on 26 October laid the foundation stone of the future Christ Church. On 24 July 1853 the shed of the church was completed and on that day the church was used for the worship services for first time.

In the 1880s the church tower was raised and the public clock was placed on it during the leadership of the Rev J.B. Brunesson by importing the same from W.H. Bailey & Co of Manchester, England. The total cost of this was Rs. 2612 and 11 annas towards which Rs. 1250 was given by the Government and the balance raised by public subscription. After remaining in hibernation for many decades, in 2015 the tower clock, started ticking again with the wonderful efforts of a Good Samaritan from Chandigarh and the local EME workshop.

The clock still works on mechanical gears and is now in the Limca Book of Records for being the oldest working tower turret clock in India.

St. Patrick’s Church Dalhousie

Dalhousie cantonment is a town in Chamba district in the state of Himachal Pradesh

An old-world charm, St Patricks Church is one of the largest churches in Dalhousie. Located near Balloon falls, Dalhousie Cantonment, the church is located 2 km away from the main bus stand on Military Hospital Road.

The chapel was created by the officers and ranks of the British Army in 1909.

St. Patrick’s Church is the largest church in Dalhousie which can host approximately 300 people for Sunday prayer. The church stands out for its impressive buildings and the huge main hall.

The church is deemed to be one of the most beautiful churches in North India. It has been more than a century since the church was built, but it still holds that magnetism and charisma of yore which attract tourist from all over India.

Himachal Pradesh is dotted with various churches.

Some other beautiful and picturesque churches are-

• St. Mary’s Church Kotgarh
• St. Michael’s Cathedral, Shimla
• St. John’s Church Dalhousie.                                      
• St. James Church Kangra
• St. Andrew’s Church Dalhousie
• St. Francis Church Dalhousie

 This post is part of    #BlogchatterA2Z 2023 . You can read previous posts here A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W

 © Deepika

 

 

 

Wildflower Hall Shimla

Anyone who was anyone in the Raj had a country house in Mashobra, India, elevation 8,250 feet. As well-placed officials of the period have drolly described it, the mountain outpost offered an escape from the “slightly trying gaiety” and “despotism of despatch boxes” in Shimla, the summer seat of the government eight miles away.

Picture clicked by my niece Ruchi Pathak on her visit

History

Going back in time, this fascinating resort is wrapped in the history of Shimla for more than a hundred years. It was for many years the property of Mr. G H M Batten, C S who officiated as the one time Private Secretary of the Earl of Lytton.

It was also the favourite retreat of Lord Ripon. Later, it also served as a charming country villa of Lord and Lady Dufferin.

 At one time, the Shimla Royal House at nearby Koti housed the residences of three of the most powerful men of the British Raj — the viceroy, the governor general and the commander-in-chief.

An ego clash between India’s Viceroy Lord Curzon and Commander-in-Chief Lord Kitchener in 1903, prompted Kitchener to build a residence at Shimla rivalling that of the viceroy. And so Wildflower Hall was built 1,500 feet higher than the Viceregal Lodge.

Viceregal Lodge now Indian Institute of Advanced Studies

Ghost

The story goes that on frosty winter nights weary and solitary travellers may see the ghost of Lord Kitchner in and around the woods of Wildflower Hall.

Immediately after he left India, the Goldstein family sold Wildflower Hall to Mrs. Hotz who converted it into a hotel.

Fire

 Some years ago Kitchner’s residence was reduced to ashes, allegedly due to the negligence of the HPTDC staff who ran a hotel here. Some say the devastating fire may have given peace to the soul of Kitchner, while others feel it could have caused even greater anguish to it.

Ruins

The place had became a popular residence for visitors and weekend resort for the Shimla public. Before the formation of the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation in 1972, the Wildflower Hall was being run as a hotel by the Department of Tourism. In 1972, the property, along with several others, was transferred to the HPTDC. Unfortunately, the building was gutted in a devastating fire in the year 1993.

The Oberoi Group

The Oberoi group took over and began construction the year 1995 and a majestic new building was erected among the sylvan surroundings and sweet smelling pines.

The hotel is a perfect base from which to explore the fascinating Himalayas. Out door activities include trekking, mountain biking, picnics, nature walks and riding. The building occupies only five percent of the twenty-two acres of property, allowing guests ample space for privacy and tranquility.

 This post is part of    #BlogchatterA2Z 2023 . You can read previous posts here A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V

© Deepika

Valleys in Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh is known for its breath taking and mesmerizing beauty. The sheer pleasure of watching the snow clad mountains, frolicking waterfalls, beautiful rivers, lakes, enthralling parks and gardens is inexplicable. Himachal Pradesh is known for some famous and picturesque valleys adding more to its appeal.

Spiti Valley

Spiti Valley is a high-altitude cold desert region located in the northern part of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its stark landscapes, ancient monasteries, and rich cultural heritage. Key Monastery, one of the largest and oldest monasteries in Spiti, is a popular tourist destination. The village of Komic, located at an altitude of 4,587 meters, is one of the highest villages in Asia. Langza village is known for its fossil deposits, and the Pin Valley National Park is home to several endangered species, including the snow leopard and the Himalayan ibex.

Spiti Valley

Kinnaur Valley

Kinnaur Valley is located in the eastern part of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its apple orchards, ancient monasteries, and scenic beauty. The town of Kalpa, located in the Kinnaur district, is a popular destination for tourists. The town is known for its traditional architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the Kinner Kailash range. Kinnaur Kailash, a sacred mountain located in the Kinnaur district, is a popular destination for trekking and pilgrimage.  Nako Lake, located in the Nako village, is a high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks and is a popular destination for camping and photography. Kamru Fort, located in the town of Sangla, is a 15^th-century fort that is now a temple dedicated to Kamakshi Devi. Sangla Valley, known for its natural beauty and trout fishing, is a popular destination for adventure sports.  Chitkul village, located on the banks of the Baspa River, is the last inhabited village near the Tibetan border.

Kinnaur

Parvati Valley

Parvati Valley is located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. It is a popular destination for trekking and adventure sports, and is known for its hot springs, waterfalls, and ancient temples. Kheer Ganga, a natural hot water spring, is a popular destination for trekkers. Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, a famous Sikh pilgrimage site, is known for its hot springs and langar (free community kitchen). Tosh village, located at the end of the Parvati Valley, is a popular destination for backpackers.  Malana village, known for its distinct culture and legal system, is a must-visit for those interested in anthropology and sociology.

Parvati Valley

Kullu Valley

Kullu Valley is located in the central part of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its natural beauty, adventure sports, and cultural festivals. Bijli Mahadev Temple, located in Kullu town, is known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Manali town, a popular tourist destination, is known for its scenic beauty, adventure sports, and ancient temples.  Rohtang Pass, located at an altitude of 3,978 meters, is a popular destination for snow activities and scenic views.

Kullu

Tirthan Valley

Tirthan Valley is located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. It is a hidden gem known for its pristine rivers, waterfalls, and trout fishing. The Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to several endangered species, including the snow leopard and the Himalayan tahr. Serolsar Lake, a natural lake located in the Jalori Pass, is a popular destination for trekkers. Jalori Pass, located at an altitude of 3,120 meters, is a scenic pass that connects Kullu and Shimla districts. The Gushaini village, located on the banks of the Tirthan River, is a peaceful destination for nature lovers.

Tirthan

Lahaul Valley

 Lahaul Valley is a remote valley located in the northern part of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its high-altitude passes, glaciers, and ancient Buddhist monasteries. The valley is surrounded by high mountain ranges, including the Pir Panjal and the Himalayas. Keylong, the district headquarters of Lahaul-Spiti, is a popular destination for tourists. The town is located on the banks of the Bhaga River and is known for its traditional architecture and local cuisine.  Baralacha Pass, located at an altitude of 4,890 meters, is a popular destination for adventure sports and trekking. The Suraj Tal, a high-altitude lake located near the Baralacha Pass, is a popular destination for camping and photography. Guru Ghantal Monastery, located in the village of Tupchiling, is a 12^th-century monastery that is known for its unique architecture and ancient Buddhist scriptures.

Spiti

Chamba Valley

 Chamba Valley is located in the southwestern part of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its ancient temples, palaces, and scenic beauty. Chamba town, located on the banks of the Ravi River. The town is known for its traditional architecture, handicrafts, and local cuisine. Chamba Palace, located in the heart of the town, is a 19^th-century palace that now serves as a museum. Khajjiar, also known as the “Mini Switzerland of India,” is a scenic hill station located in the Chamba district. The town is known for its lush green meadows, pine forests, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Bhuri Singh Museum, located in the town of Chamba, is a museum that showcases the history and culture of the region.

Pangi

Solang Valley

 Solang Valley is located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its adventure sports, including skiing, paragliding, and zorbing. The valley is surrounded by high mountain ranges, including the Beas Kund and the Hanuman Tibba. The Solang Valley Ski Resort is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Nehru Kund, a natural spring located in the Solang Valley, is a popular destination for picnics and photography.

Solang

Kangra Valley

 Kangra Valley is located in the northwestern part of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its ancient temples, forts, and scenic beauty. Kangra Fort, located in the town of Kangra, is a 4^th-century fort that is now a museum. Masroor Rock Cut Temple, located near the town of Kangra, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its unique architecture. Palampur town, located in the Kangra Valley, is a popular destination for tea tourism. The town is known for its tea plantations, scenic views, and trekking trails. Kareri Lake, located in the Dhauladhar range, is a popular destination for trekking and camping.

Kangra Valley

Mandi Valley

 Mandi Valley is located in the central part of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its ancient temples, natural hot springs, and scenic beauty. The town of Mandi is known as the “Varanasi of the Hills” and is home to several ancient temples, including the Bhutnath Temple and the Triloknath Temple. Prashar Lake located in the Mandi district is a sacred lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks and is a popular destination for trekking and camping.  Tattapani hot springs, located on the banks of the Satluj River, are known for their therapeutic properties and are a popular destination for spa treatments and relaxation.

Mandi

Himachal Pradesh is truly a paradise for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those interested in history and culture. Each valley has its own unique charm and offers a plethora of activities and experiences.

 This post is part of    #BlogchatterA2Z 2023 . You can read previous posts here A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U

© Deepika

Gulaba

A small village located a few kilometres from Manali, Gulaba is situated on the way to Rohtang Pass, on the Leh-Manali Highway. At a distance of 21.5 km from Manali Bus Stand, 8 km from Kothi Village and 13.5 km from Marhi.  Gulaba is among popular places of sightseeing in Manali.

History

Gulaba is located at an altitude of 4000 m. Named after Raja Gulab Singh of Kashmir who camped here while he was invading China through this area, the village is tucked in amidst picturesque snow-capped mountains and verdant green meadows, with the Beas river adding opulence and serenity to its beauty.

Winter wonderland

To be able to enjoy this beautiful place, visit in winters when it snows, though heavy snowfall closes it shut.

Winters

Known as a great snowy region, Gulaba is also famous amongst sports and adventure enthusiasts, who drive in large numbers to the village to partake in adventure activities. Some of the major activities one can enjoy here include skiing, trekking and hiking, as well as paragliding and snow-scooter riding.

Gulaba is a perfect attraction for those who want to experience tranquility and escape their hectic lifestyles.

Best time to visit

Covered with snow from November to February, it is the next best alternative for skiing when Rohtang Pass is closed because of snowfall in winter. The view of the majestic snow capped mountains, the swirling Beas River and the small grasslands simply add charm to the area.

How to reach

The best way to reach Gulaba Manali from Manali City Centre is by taking a car, or by hiring a private car or taxi as the distance between Gulaba Manali and Manali city center is around 12.5 kilometers which would take 30 minutes at least. If not taxi, you can even take jeeps to Gulaba. Alternatively, the cheapest way to reach Gulaba from the Manali city center is by the state bus services. There will be HPTDC buses from Manali city center to Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass.

Things to do

Stargazing from a camp: One can enjoy camping here as there are many areas in the village of Gulaba. The best part about this camping experience is the fact it becomes an eye-treat for every stargazing lover. See, who wouldn’t love looking at the stars?

 Adventure activities: Gulaba is a great place for adventure activities. It offers a wide array of activities such as trekking, hiking, camping, paragliding and even skiing and zorbing.

Zorbing

Skiing

Paragliding

 Riding a yak and a horse: Gulaba is a great place for going for a yak or a horse ride. It is hyped so much as you ride on this animal while they walk on ice.

Attractions near Gulaba

Rohtang Pass

Rohtang pass is mostly overcrowded and full of tourists, so it’s best to avoid if you want a tranquil holiday. Just stay in Gulaba and relax.

Rohtang Pass, located close to Gulaba, is amongst the most famous tourist attractions in Manali, offering tourists views of snow all year round. You can also see many beautiful glaciers, mountain peaks as well as streams and rivers from Rohtang Pass. These include the Sonapani Glacier and Dashahr Lake. It is also a great place for adventure sports like skiing and snow scooter riding.

Solang Valley

Again, offering stunning views of the snow-capped mountain ranges and picturesque glaciers, is the Solang Valley. Known as the skiing destination of Himachal, you can also enjoy zorbing, paragliding as well as horse-riding in the scenic Solang Valley. You can also visit an ancient temple at the top of the valley, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. In addition to that, you can also get professional skiing training here, at the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports.

Solang Valley

Kothi

Yet another picturesque village-like Gulaba is the village of Kothi, known for its amazing gorges. In addition to that, you can also find numerous natural geothermal springs emerging from the rocks here. Kothi boasts many scintillating sights, along with those of the Kothi Gorge which is perfect for shutterbugs. One of the best things about this village is that it is still quite idyllic and tranquil. It is also a great destination for paragliding enthusiasts.

View from Kothi

Pictures courtesy internet

 This post is part of    #BlogchatterA2Z 2023 . You can read previous posts here A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T

© Deepika

Thanedar

One cannot talk of Himachal and not talk of apples. This little hamlet and villages around it are the reason why Himachal is called the fruit bowl of India.

Thanedar is a small village in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is located at a distance of about 80 kilometers from the capital city of Shimla. At an altitude of 8,000 feet (2,400 meters, which is slightly higher than Shimla), this tiny hamlet is famous for being home to one of the first apple plantations in the country. The area around Thanedar is also the orchard region of Himachal Pradesh, where cherries, strawberries, and apples are found in quite a large number. In short, it is a perfect place to spend some time away from the crowd and in complete peace.

Sea of apple orchards

Not much to see

To be honest, if destinations like Shimla and Manali are your thing, than Thanedar is not the place for you. There is nothing out here except for a few houses, orchards with mighty Himalayan peaks all around. It is just a tiny village hidden up in the hills. If you like your vacations to involve a lot of sightseeing, fun activities, eating out, and plenty of shopping then you will not like Thanedar. However, if you are looking forward to spending some time at a place that is far away from the tourist mania and never gets crowded then you should be headed to Thanedar. If discovering unexplored and offbeat destination is your idea of a trip than you would love it here.

Cherry blossom

A few attractions near Thanedar that are definitely worth a visit. Mostly all of them are within a short distance and can easily be covered within a day. Below is a list of the top tourist places in Thanedar.

• Hatu Peak
• Hatu Temple
• Ski Slopes
• Sutlej View Point
• Tani Jubbar Lake
• Jor Bagh
• Mahamaya Temple at Kacheri
• Arya Samaj Mandir
• Stokes Farm, Thanedar
• St. Mary’s Church

 Why visit Thanedar

Thanedar lies 18 kms from Narkanda off the NH-22 and is surrounded by Apple, Plum and Apricot orchard.

 Thanedar offers good Himalayan views, walks and village character.

Thanedar is where you can pickup apples, apricot etc that are used in preparing jam, pickles, and wines.

Apple picking

Thanedar is home to experiential retreats that focuses on soft adventure, walks, treks etc.

Thanedar is recommended for honeymooners and families who are not looking for luxury but looking for a nature centric comfortable experience.

History of Apple in Shimla

In the early 20^th CE a young American called Samuel Evans Stokes, who belonged to a wealthy family of Philadelphia, came to India to work with leprosy-impacted patients near Shimla. He landed up in a church in Kotgarh, not too far from Thanedar, for rest and here he falls in love with the place and its people. He married a local Rajput-Christian girl and decided to live here for the rest of his life. On one of the trips back home, he brought the sapling of Red delicious apples to Kotgarh and planted them.

Satyanand Stokes with his family

In about 5 years the apples bloomed and were an instant hit with the local population. They continue to be hit with apple lovers till date.

Once the Stokes experiment was successful, people around his estate got inspired and they started planting apples instead of their usual crop of potatoes and plums. Over a period of time the whole of Shimla & Kinnaur region became one huge orchard sending its apples across state, national & international borders, bringing in cash and prosperity in return.

He converted to Hinduism or rather Arya Samaj to be precise. He changed his given name to Satyanand though retained his family name.

To read in detail about Thanedar please visit this website

 This post is part of    #BlogchatterA2Z 2023 . You can read previous posts here A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S

 pictures courtesy internet

© Deepika

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shoja

This little hamlet, located in Seraj Valley, links the Shimla and Kullu districts. Shoja village is still off the beaten path for most, which probably explains it’s still undiscovered feel. With sloping mountains covered in verdure, conifers and deodars stretching for miles around, and an incredible view of the snow-covered peaks, this is a breathtaking spot.

The best months to go are April to June and September to October. It can be somewhat complicated to get here, unless you are driving yourself. For those headed here by bus, the ride from Delhi to Banjar is quite comfortable, but the way from Banjar to Shoja less so, as the road is riddled with stones and potholes.

The ordeal will be worth it, though. As soon as you reach, the charming and peaceful village and its pristine environs and Himalayan surrounds are likely to leave you speechless. Accommodation options are few and far between, but that also adds to the charm of the place, as it confirms Shoja as one of the few untouched spots in the well-visited state of Himachal.

Things to see and do

To be honest, there isn’t that much to do here, and Shoja’s proximity to Tirthan Valley means that if you are here for a long weekend, it is possible to head there. A sojourn to Shoja is more about rest and relaxation, with a few activities thrown in.

Jalori Pass

The area of Jalori Pass is, quite simply put, a natural paradise. The pass is at a height of 3,125 m, and is located five km away from Shoja. You can easily drive your car up to the stop point, and then start climbing the steep path, which will take you on a trek lasting around an hour and a half. On your way, you will cross a dense forest with a huge variety of flowers, herbs and medicinal plants. The view from the top is simply heavenly and well worth the trip. From there, you can get a spectacular panoramic view of the Himalayas, a top-of-the-world feeling. Take some food with you, as you will definitely end up staying a while.

Perhaps one would recognise it better as the snow-covered summit in the Bollywood film “Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani”, where actors Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone are seen trekking through the mountainside.

Waterfall Point

The walk to this waterfall is a good outdoor option to get acclimatized on the day of your arrival. You can ask your hotel to direct you to the starting point. This fairly easy trekking path winds through a thickly forested, sun-dappled path to reach the point.

A long silent walk through the nature with gurgling sound of water can do wonder to your senses. At a mere distance of 1 Km from Shoja, the waterfall point is a magical journey that spellbinding and beautiful.

 Best place for your morning walk, you will find the water of the fall sweet and cold.

Trout Fishing in the Tirthan Valley

This activity can be done in Tirthan Valley, not far from Shoja. You can go on your own, but first timers may be better off with a guide who will arrange the required equipment and show you the best spots for trout fishing. This half-day trip is especially great for families and large groups. Ask your hotel to arrange permits well in advance of your trip.

Where to stay and eat

Shoja’s growing popularity means that there are now several basic, although  comfortable, accommodation options available here.

Nearest Airport. Bhuntar Airport. Kullu

Nearest Railway Station. Joginder Nagar Railway Station

Distance from Delhi. 473km

Being creative is so essential to live. To be who you are, you need to take a break from what you are doing at present and find offbeat and quaint places like Shoja to go on some soul searching. After all, being a wanderer is what makes life beautiful.

 This post is part of    #BlogchatterA2Z 2023 . You can read previous posts here A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R

© Deepika

Rewalsar Lake

Rewalsar Lake, also known as Tso Pema, is a mid-altitude lake located in the mountains of the Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh, India. It is located 22.5 km south-west from the town of Mandi, at an elevation of about 1,360 metres (4,460 ft) above sea level, with a shoreline of about 735 m. Rewalsar Lake is a sacred spot for Hindus, Sikhs and Buddhists, and sacred to Tibetan Buddhists for the Vajrayana practices of Padmasambhava and Mandarava, which are credited for the lake’s creation.

Buddhist

Legend has it that the king of Mandi tried to kill Guru Padmasambhava when he got to know that his daughter Mandarava is running off with him. The king tried to ruin their love by cursing them to die in a fire. By using his supernatural powers, Padmasambhava transformed the funeral pyre into a lake of sesame oil, surrounded by a ring of fire. In the middle of the fire bloomed a huge lotus flower on which Guru Padmasambhava was seated surrounded by rainbows and clouds. People even say that the Guru Padmasambhava’s (Guru Rinpoche) spirit resides in this lake in the form of a tiny reed flowing in the river.

The lake is also home to the Drikung Kagyu Gompa which is an academy for Buddhist studies and houses a Sakyamuni statue.

On April 1, 2012, a monumental statue of Padmasambhava, measuring 37.5 m (123 ft), was consecrated, blessed and inaugurated by the 14^th Dalai Lama. The building project was spear-headed and overseen by Wangdor Rinpoche and funded by donations. It took nearly 10 years to complete, with the foundation alone taking three years.

Hindu

At this place Sage Lomasha is believed to have performed his penance to appease Lord Shiva. The Rewalsar Lake also has three Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Krishna, Lord Shiva and to the sage Lomasha.

Sikh

The Sikh Guru Gobind Singh (22 December 1666 – 7 October 1708), the tenth Guru of Sikhism, also resided here for one month.

The Gurudwara Shri Rewalsar Sahib is associated with the tenth Guru, Guru Gobind Singh ji who called upon Pahari Rajas to be united in his fight against Mughals. People of all religion come to Rewalsar for a Holy bath on Baisakhi.

Places of interest

Other lakes situated near Rewalsar are also worth a visit. Of the six lakes, Lake of Kunt Bhayo (1750 m above sea level) shouldn’t be missed. It is associated with the escape of ‘Pandavas’ from the burning palace of wax—an episode from the epic Mahabharata.

There are four other monasteries,  Nyingma Gompa, the oldest monastery in Rewalsar, Zigar Drukpa Kagyud Monastery, which houses the 12 m high statue of Guru Padmasambhava, and Zangdok Palri Palace Monastery.

The forest department of Rewalsar maintains a small zoo which is also worth visiting. The Sisu fair held in late February to March and the festival of Baisakhi are important events at Rewalsar.

Stay

Guest houses, lodges and budget hotels are available. The Sikh Gurudwara also offers accommodations. All types of Indian and Tibetan cuisines are available here. Restaurants attached to hotels serve Indian, Chinese and continental delicacies. The momos are worth trying.

Best time to visit

Rewalsar can be visited any time of the year. The best time to visit Rewalsar Lake is between March and October.

 This post is part of    #BlogchatterA2Z 2023 . You can read previous posts here A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q

Pictures courtesy internet.

© Deepika

 

 

 

Queen of hills – Shimla

You must be wondering why we are suddenly talking of Shimla, when the entire theme is about off-beat destinations. Well, you can have a perfect holiday in Shimla itself away from the maddening crowd of tourists by staying in these beautiful places. Just go there to relax and rejuvenate.

Every season brings a different charm to this evergreen holiday destination. Hotels and homestays here offer the perfect respite from noisy metropolitans and crowded touristy spots, with a gateway into an idyllic world of hammocks and birdsong, mud walls and valley views.

A list of places for you to choose from.

Jungle House, Jakhu Hill

The erstwhile summer home of Princess Kusum of Bharatpur, Jungle House is a gateway into a regal past. The otherwise earthy stone and wood cottage is kitted out with Pashmina tapestry, huge bathtubs, windows overlooking the sprawling Himalayas and rows and rows of books in a giant library. The two suites—Holly and Chelsea—are flooded with the morning sun with floor-to-ceiling windows. Through changing owners since its inception in the 19^th century, this cottage on Jakhu Hill has retained its colonial architecture and two-tier garden. The traditional fare too is curated from recipes handed down through generations and served over high tea sessions and with complimentary sundowners and hors d’oeuvres during the Aperitivo Hour. The good folks here are kind enough to pack picnics, arrange excursions and curate shopping tours on request.

Spirits Unplugged,  Farm and Orchard Retreat, Karyali

Open those windows, and breathe in the Himalayan air and feast your eyes on endless landscapes of the Karyali Valley. The exterior of the property is made of manicured lawns, while the interior is a contrast of black ceilings and wooden furnishings. The entire house with its two bedrooms can accommodate up to eight people. Each room has a fireplace of its own and heaters are available too. The kitchen is accessible on an additional charge. The best part? You can even bring your pooch along as the property is pet-friendly.

Khaddu’s Den, Sanjauli

Khaddu’s Den is a mud plastered room opened by Meena Bagh Homes in Shimla. But don’t be fooled by its simple pahadi architecture: the space comes equipped with all kinds of creature comforts such as a 32-inch LCD TV, a heated bathroom and a shower panel. If you’re a writer, artist or journalist, this place is perfect for you. The team will offer you a 50 per cent discount during your stay, and you will remain undisturbed as children and pets are not allowed on the property. The room is hosted by Sanjay, who is a journalist himself. You can also try the flavours of Himachal by requesting the staff to prepare a pahadi meal.

Sunnymead Estate, below Cartroad

A 10min walk from the city centre, this two-storey cottage is built in the traditional Dhajji style. Its four rooms overlook the garden, valley or woods. You’ll find vintage chairs, Afghan carpets, bedside reading (Ghost Stories of Shimla) and Kama Ayurveda toiletries. Breakfast is an elaborate, four-course affair, served with antique silverware. Lively host Madhavi Bhatia has handy tips on Shimla’s tucked-away delights, from secluded forest walks to local souvenirs. Her great-grand uncle built the colonial-era home, which her mother inherited in 2010. Bhatia moved from Delhi, where she worked with INTACH, to restore the house over the next two years. The lodging was picked as the Favourite Homestay in India at CNT’s Readers’ Travel Awards 2021. Bonus for animal lovers: five friendly dogs and two cats also call Sunnymead home.

Chapslee, Longwood road

One of Shimla’s first colonial homes, Chapslee has been hosting guests since 1976. The grand two–storey home was the Secretariat when Lord Auckland was Governor General. It saw the British sign the Simla Manifesto in 1838 to reinstate the deposed king of Kabul. Hundred years later, Raja Charanjit Singh of Kapurthala bought and refurbished the stone building as his summer home. His grandson Ratanjit “Reggie” Singh, now the owner, says that there has been no renovation since. Chapslee has the mind-bending qualities of a time machine—though it’s only a short walk from the city centre. A stunning blood–red Murano chandelier fills your vision as you enter. Old hunting trophies, weapons and family portraits line the walls. Elegant powder rooms flank four-poster beds with gleaming fireplaces. Meals are equally a production with silver service and liveried staff. And there’s always time for a spot of croquet on the lawns.

Sanjeev Aira’s Holme retreat, Chotta Shimla

An idyllic pocket of charm in Chotta Shimla, Sanjiv’s Aira Holme Retreat is a 10min drive from the city centre. It started as a billiards room and guesthouse in 1920. In 2012, owner Sanjiv and her husband, Birinder “Billy” Singh, opened it to guests. After Sanjiv passed away last year, Billy continues to run it in her memory. The two tasteful guest rooms have plenty of well-appointed couches and nooks to gaze out of or fall into a book. Calming mountain views include surrounding deodars sighing in the wind. Nap sun-warmed in the garden, spend hours in the bright and cosy attic, cuddle up with the three little dogs, and linger over Billy’s mystical landscapes. An artist, photographer and founder-member of the Shimla chapter of INTACH, Billy retired as convenor for the state chapter. He is a font of information on the region’s myths and heritage.

All these places are in the heart of Shimla, yet secluded.

The information has been taken from CN Traveller where you can find other awesome stays too.

 This post is part of    #BlogchatterA2Z 2023 . You can read previous posts here A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P

 Pictures courtesy CN Traveller

© Deepika