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Himachal Pradesh
God’s own country
Himalayan Odessies
Area
: 55,673 sq km (1.69% of country’s area & 10.54% of Himalayan land mass
Capital
: Shimla
Languages
: Hindi & Pahari
Districts
: 12
Population
: 60,77,248 ( Males : 30,85,256: Females : 29,91,992)
Density
: 109 persons per sq km
Sex Ratio
: 970(females per 1000 males)
Literacy
: 77.13 %
Villages
: 20,118
Height
: 350 m to 6975 m (from mean sea level)
Main Rivers
: Beas,Satluj,Ravi,Chenab & Yamuna.
Main Peaks
: Abi Gamin,Gya,Reo Purgil,Jorkanden,Shigri,Parvati, Manirang
Main Passes
: Pin Parvati,Inderhara,Sach,Rohtang,Rupin,Kugti
Airports
Railway
: Jubbar Hatti (Shimla);Gaggal (Kangra) & Bhuntar (Kullu)
: Kalka to Shimla (96 kms) & Pathankot to Jogindernagar ( 113 kms).
THE LAND
Bordered by Jammu & Kashmir to its north & northwest, Tibet to its
east.Uttaranchal & Utter Pradesh to its southeast, Punjab &
Haryana to the southwest & south,Himachal is the eighteenth state
of India. It lies between 30°22” to 33°12” North latitude & 75°49”
to 79°4” East longitude. With an area of 55,673 sq Km,the state
comprises 1.69 % area of the country. Lahaul & Spiti is the largest
district areawise & Hamirrpur the smallest. The state capital is
Shimla (Simla of the Raj days-the summer capital of the British)
where the state secretariat is located. There are 12 administrative
divisions (districts):Bilaspur,Chamba,Hamirpur,Kangra, Kinnaur,
Kullu,Lahual & Spiti,Mandi,Shimla,Sirmaur,Solan & Una.
Himachal,the land of snow, is one of the most beautiful states in
India .It has a rich & varied landscape. From the fertile plains to
lush green, rain-fed valley; from vast grasslands, meadows & thick
forests to barren mountainscape of cold desert of Spiti,nature
presents striking contrast.Himachal extends from the plains of Punjab
& Haryana to the majestic mountains through the Shivalik,Dhauladhar
& Pir Panjal ranges. These ranges run almost parallel to each other &
amongst them form beautiful valleys of the state that are irrigated by
numerous perennial water sources. The Himalayan rivers, rivulets,
streams & nallahs flow through the hills down to the fertile plains of
Punjab & Haryana.The Satluj,Ravi,Beas,Chenad ( Chandrabhaga) &
Yamuna are the major rivers that either originate in the state or flow
through it. The valley of Kullu & Kangra receive plenty of monsoon
rains as mighty Lahaul ,Pangi,Spiti & Kinnaur that lie beyond Pir Panjal
get very little rain. In fact the valley of Spiti is known as cold desert.
Himachal is the land of high passes & deep valley. Mean elevation
range from 350 m in the plains of Kangra & Una to about 7000 m in
the high hills of Lahaul & Spiti.Dharamsala receives the heightest
rainfall in the state & second highest in the country whereas Lahaul &
Spiti valleys go without rains.
Administrative Divisions ( Districts) of Himachal Pradesh
District
Area
(sq Km)
Population
Headquarters
(2001)
Bilaspur
1,167
3,40,735
Bilaspur
Chamba
6,528
4,60,499
Chamba
Hamirpur
1,118
4,12,009
Hamirpur
Kangra
5,739
13,38,536
Dharamsala
Kinnaur
6,401
83,950
Kalpa (Peo)
Kullu
5,503
3,79,865
13,835
33,224
Mandi
3,950
9,00,987
Mandi
Shimla
5,131
7,21,745
Shimla
Sirmaur
2,825
4 ,58,351
Nahan
Solan
1,936
4,99,380
Solan
Una
1,540
4,47,967
Una
Lahaul & Spiti
Kullu
Keylong
TEMPLES
Himachal has more than six thousand big & small
temples of different architectural style, excluding
personalized shrines existing in sub-villages &
hamlets.
Parashar temple at Mandi
Pyramid-shapes stone temples are called Shikhara temples.Lakshmi
Narayan,Hari Rai,Gauri Shankar & Manimahash (at Bharmaur) temples of
Chamba;Baijnath temple in Kangra & Triloknath temple in Lahaul fall in this
category.
Pagoda style temples have pyramid-tiered roofs. These are mainly wooden
temples such as Hidimba,Bijli Mahadev & Tripura Sundari in Kullu;Sungra
Mahadev in Kinnaur;Bhimakali in Shimla & Parashar in Mandi district.
Hatkoti temple in Shimla & Lakshna Devi temple in Chamba are another distinct
type of temples known as Pent-Roofed. Plenty of wood is used in this type of
temples.
Then there are Buddhist monasteries in the state that exhibit different
architectural style. Most of these are located in Kinnaur and Lahaul & Spiti.
ART & CRAFT
The glorious tradition of craftsmanship in the hills is centuries old. For
the hill folk, creation is a part of the rhythm of a life in tune with
nature. Steeped in its own unique culture & imbued with its own
unique charater,the ancient skills are reverently handed down from
generation to generation.
Spinning & Weaving
The Shawls of Himachal Pradesh are a rare
display of exquisite craftsmanship of the
hill communities.
The soft delicate Pashmina shawl made
from the hair of pashmina goat is the most
notable of the immense variety available.
Shawls
The Kinnauri shawls, woven from the pashmina & merino wools are
striking in its vivid contrasts & superb craftsmanship.
The Kullu shawls woven in bright colors
with borders in brilliant geometric designs
are very popular among locals & tourists.
Along with the shawls,pattoo,the local
tweeds, are rough & unbelievably warm.
Pattoo
The colorful headgear, the Kullu cap, is
an essential part of the Himachal dress.
When gifted to others, these caps symbolize
hospitality & expression of reverence.
The warm & wonderfully embroidered
footware,pulas is another specialty in
many parts such as Lahaul,Pangi & specially
of Kullu valley in Himachal Pradesh.
The knitted socks of Lahaul in brilliantly
colored ‘fair isle’ designs are worn as part of
costume.
Kullu cap
Pulas
Embroidery
The Chamba rumals are
synonymous with the embroidery
work. The most common shapes
of this rumals are the square &
rectanglular.the size of the
rumals vary from 20 inch to 35 inch.
Metalcraft
The art of metalware of the Himachal
is a unique alloy of talent & tradition.
Common metals like copper, brass &
silver are used to transform into items
of artistic expressions & utilization products.
The most popular style of metal in Himachal is that of masks & idols.
Pahari Painting
The Pahari-literally ‘of the hills’ is the popular term coined for the
paintings executed in the various sub-Himalayan states.
Schools of Painting
•Basholi School
•Guler Kangra School
•Sikh School
Kangra painting
Other type of Buddhist painting which can be found here is called
‘thangka’
SHIMLA
Altitude: - 2205m
Distance: - 370km from Delhi
One of the India’s most popular hill
resorts, Shimla is the state capital of
Shimla
Himachal Pradesh. The town named
after goddess Shyamla, grew out of the turmoil’s of the Gurkha wars
after 1815-1816.
Places of interest
The Mall The elegant Mall that runs along the top of the ridge with
its rows of shops, restaurants and old colonial architecture is one
place every visitor passes through. This is the hub of Shimla’s social
life. At the end of the promenade, there is Scandal Point, a large
open square with a view of the town, so named ‘coz of a number of
romantic rendezvous arranged here in the past. Below this,
pulsating with life, is the winding labyrinth of the Lower Bazaar.
The large open space in the heart of town, The Ridge present excellent
views of the mountain ranges.Shimla’s landmarks-the neoGothic
structure of Christ Church and the neo-Tudor library building are
worth seeing. A stroll in Lakkar Bazaar just off the Ridge, popular for
its wood crafts and souvenirs is somewhat compelling. The dazzle of
local artifacts is the exotic Tibetan Bazaar. The town’s other important
church is St.Michael’s cathedral, which is off The Mall.
Jakhoo Hill At 2455m, the Shimla’s highest point, is rewarding for
there are superb views of the town & its surrounding, excellent view of
sunrise & the changing skyline. The summit is crowned with a temple
dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
A visit to Jakhoo can be combined with a stroll on The Mall.Jakhoo Hill
(2 Km) is accessible by car or pony/walk from the Ridge.
KUFRI (2510m)
13 km from Shimla, Kufri is the hottest place to
be in during the winter months for its snowy
slopes. Ski-runs are there at Kufri itself while
the Mahasu peak, also has fresh runs. There's a
Kufri
small zoo at Kufri. The Himalayan Nature Park at Kufri offers eco-treks
and camping site. The fine views of deep valley and thick forests that
are framed by a backdrop of unmelting snows present some
breathtaking scenery. The 27 km drive from Kufri to Chail entail one of
the most charming stretches of highway in the area.
CHAIL(2226m)
43 km from Shimla, set amidst the scented forests of pine & deodar,
this idyllic resort was the former summer capital of the Patiala State.
Located on a wooded spur, hail overlooks the Sutlej valley. Chail was
created by Maharaja Bhujinder Singh of Patiala after his expulsion
from Shimla by the British in the year 1891.
Fagu (2450 m)
22 km from Shimla on NH 22,Fagu is a vantage point with panoramic
view of the ranges & the two valleys opposite each other. The place
offers a majestic view of the Choor Chandani & the Inner Himalayas.
Narkanda (2700 m)
64 km from Shimla,on NH 22 (Hindustan Tibet Road) Narkhanda
derived from Nagkhanda, located amongst the pine forests has a
choice of Ski-runs.
The Apple Growing Heartland
An hour’s drive from Narkanda,Kotgarh & Thanedar (1830 m) form
the famous Himachal’s apple growing heartland .The popular Golden &
Red delicious varieties of apple has made people of this region a the
highest per capita income earners in south-east Asia.
Kumarsain,16 km,is worth a visit for the ancient Koteshwar
Mahadev Temple & the old royal palace in the village.
Places of Interest
The Temples
The temple of Lord Rama,Raghunath Temple about 400 yrs old has an
image of Lord Rama brought here from Ayodhaya in 1657.This temple is the
principal god of the famous Kullu Dussehra.4 km north, on the Kullu-Manali
road ,Vaishno Devi Temple has an image of the goddess Vaishno in a cave.
The Devi Jagannathi Temple at Bekhli (5 km) a temple dedicated to Lord
Vishnu,Triyugnarayan Temple ,12 km away at Dyar & 9th century
temple,Bishweshwar Mahadev with intricate carvings,15 km away at
Bajaura & 5 km from Bhuntar is the largest & the most attractive stone
temple of Kullu valley. This temple is built in the 9th century in pyramid style
on Shankracharya padhati(style) of Panch Dev puja.This is believed to be built
by Pandavas & constructed in just 1 day. Located in the village khokhan,4 km
from Bhuntar,Adi-Brahma Temple is a massive wooden structure with the
idol of Adi-Brahma in the centre & the temples of Garh Jogni & Manikarnana
Jogni on the left & right of the temple. At 2460 m,14km from Kullu, Bijli
Mahadev Temple is highly revered & famous for its high staff that
periodically draws lighting which shatters the Shivalinga & scorches the
building.
Kullu Valley
Altitude
1220 m
Distance Delhi 512 km,Chandigarh 270 km,
Shimla 235 km, Manali 40 km
Kullu Valley often called ‘Himachal Silver Valley’ has nature's
treasures that lie carelessly scattered as jewel-like flowers, daisies &
buttercups, anemones & edelweiss on the high meadows. This wealth
nestles by every tree in the splendid thick forests & the necklaces of
gleaming pearls lies casually strung as blossoms in the apple
orchards. Also called, the Valley of Gods, it is stepped in religious
culture & tradition.
Today Kullu is a popular destination & the district headquarter.Kullu is
the site for the spectacular annual World known Dussehra Festival &
is famous for its finely crafted temples & picturesque spots
Around Kullu
KASOL
42 km from Kullu,Kasol is an open
glade by the banks of the river
Parvati along the valley. It is set
amidst pines & the streams are a
good spot for trout.
MANIKARAN (1737 m)
Kullu Dussehra
The route to Manikaran is lined with attractive orchards & spectacular scenery
in the Parvati valley.Manikaran is hot sulphur spring & site of a famous Sikh
Gurudwara.Trek routes from here lead to Pulga,Khirganga & Mantalai & finally
to the Pin Parvati Pass (4802 m.) which connects the Sutlej & the Spiti valley
MALANA (2652 m)
Malana is famous for its distinct culture & the temple of its tutelary
deity,Jamlu.Malana can be reach through Chandrakhani Pass in a full day.
The inhabitants of Malana village act according to the law & rules, the roots of
which go back to ancient times.
MANALI
Altitude: 1926m
Distance: Shimla 280 km, Delhi 570 km,
Chandigarh 310 km.
At the north end of Kullu valley, Manali, means home of Manu.
Today Manali is the main tourist destination of Kullu valley. The area
around Manali has high mountains surrounded by silent snows & deep
boulder strewn groges.Thick forest rise over a carpet of varied foliage &
fauna. Traditional old houses with wooden balconies stand surrounded
by fields & fruit laden orchards.Manali is an important centre of the
flourishing orchard industry & hub of adventure activities that is
available around the town.
Places of interest
1.5 km away from Manali, built in 1553 AD, Hadimba Devi Temple is
superbly crafted pagoda style structure & enshrines the image of
goddess Hadimba,also known as the Dhoongri Temple.3 km, a village,
Vashit on the banks of the Beas is renowned for its hot spring & hot
sulphur baths which have been piped into shower fitted bathrooms,
maintained by HPTDC.Just beyond the Himachal Tourism baths , the
village has temples dedicated to the sage Vashit & to Lord Rama.There
are three recently built Tibetan Monasteries at Manali.
14 km away, Solang valley, has the glacier closet to Manali.Most of
the adventure activities is centered around this valley.
Naggar (1768m)
28km short of Manali & 5 km from Katrain, Naggar was the capital of
Kullu for nearly 1400 years. The castle of Naggar is an excellent
example of the local architecture. The Naggar castle was built around
1460 AD by Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu.
Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery
This is famous gallery is close to the Castle -displaying the art of both Professor
Late Nicholas Roerich & his son.Nicloas was a Russian émigré who chose Naggar
as his residence along with his wife. The famous Indian film actress, Devika
Rani got married to his son. He sought to unite the world through art .His house
now converted to an art gallery is located at a vantage point & offers excellent
views over the valley.
Timing 0900-1300, 1400-1700 hrs, Entry Rs. 10.
Rohtang Pass (3980m)
It’s is around 50 km from Manali.The road is steep & twisted & past occasional
snow patches & offering endless vistas of the alpine beauty to the Rohtang Pass.
The Sonapani glacier is in the north & scared twin peaks of Greyphang are
visible from here. A short distance from the pass is the lake of Dashair (
Sarkund).From the pass you can get magnificent views of precipitous cliffs,
deep ravines, large glaciers & moraines.Rohtang La is the first of the high
passes on the road from Manali to Leh( in Jammu & Kashmir), the second
highest highway in the world. The pass remains snow bounded most of the year
(Oct-June) & is usually open (July-Sept).The Rohtang Pass is the gateway to
Lahaul & Spiti in the Trans Himalayan region.
Chamba Valley
On the edge of Dhauladhar range & the Pir Panjal range to its north is
perhaps the loveliest of Himachal’s valley, through which flows the
river Ravi.The town of Dalhousie,Chamba & khajjar as the main
centers constitute the Dhauladhar circuit. This formed the princely
state of Chamba & it is the most ancient state in the northern part of
India. The Chamba valley is noted for the magnificence of its scenerysparkling streams,lakes,meadows & lush forests of deodar & rich
wildlife. A splendid artic heritage includes fine Shikhara temple
architecture, the ancient capital of Bharmaur , the ancient culture &
tradition, colonial charm, beautiful miniature paintings & exquisite
embroidered Chamba rumals.
DALHOUSIE
Altitude
2039m
Distance
Delhi 485 km,Shimla
336km,Chamba 56km,
Pathankot 80km,Kangra
130km,Dharamsala 145 km.
DALHOUSIE
In the western Himachal Pradesh, the little hill station of Dalhousie,
established by the Viceroy Lord Dalhousie in 1854,still retains charm &
holds lingering echoes of the colonial times. Situated in the outer
slopes of Dhauladhar ranges & built on the five hillsBalun,Kathlog,Potreyn,Tehra & Bakrota with heights ranging from
1525-2378m,Dalhousie covers an area of about 14 sq km.The town is
surrounded by the trees of cedars,interspered with oak & the flowering
rhododendrons. Dalhousie has charming colonial architecturesprawling bungalows, charming cottages & some beautiful churches.
Places of interest
The four beautiful churches in Dalhousie represent the beautiful
colonial architecture of the bygone British Raj.About one km,Subhash
Baoli, a charming spot surrounded by the majestic deodar trees is
noted for Subhash Chandra Bose who spent a lot of time here
1937.3km from Subhash Chowk,Panchpula ( five bridges) is
picturesque spot.Bara Pathar,4km,a small temple dedicated to
Bhulwani Mata, is site of major fair in July. Above the bus stand is a
Tibetan Market selling various handicrafts,woolens,jackets ,carpets,
shawls & rumals.10 km,Kalatop Wildlife sanctuary is home to a
variety of spices particularly the Himalayan black bear & the ghoral &
an abundance of bird life.
KHAJJIAR
Often called Indian’s Switzerland,Khajjiar
is one of the most scenic saucer shaped
plateau surrounded by dense pine &
deodar forests ( part of Kalatop
Wildlife Sanctuary) Tattered fringes
of the snowline frame this picture of
pastoral beauty. The glade of khajjiar
has a circumference of about 5km &
Khajjiar Lake
in the centre of the glade, a small
lake fed by streams that traverse the green carpet further enhances most
sought after pleasure resort for tourists. There is a 12th century golden domed
Khajjinag Temple dedicated to the Khajji Nag-the serpent of Khajjiar with
fine wood carving on the cornices. There is a beautifully carved stone image of
the nag devta holding a mace in one hand & a khanda ( double edged dagger)
in the other. There are lifesize wooden images of the five Pandavas.
CHAMBA
Altitude
Distance
996m
Pathankot 120km,
Bharmaur 65 km.
From Dalhousie it is a very pleasant downhill drive with small villages
clinging to the sheer slopes of the valley.
The little town, perched on a plateau overhanging the river
ravi,Chamba,the former princely state dates back to the 6th century.
The town was founded in 920 AD by Raja Sahil Varman,who shifted
the capital here from Bharmaur.The name “Chamba” is said to have
been derived from Champawati,sahil Varman favorite daughter.
Chamba has a grassy promenade known as the Chowgan-the centre
of its cultural activities. Each year in July/August, the Minjar Fair is
held here.
Places of interest
Temples
Still intact are a five group of six ancient stone temple dedicated to
both Siva & Vishnu, dating from 8th century , collectively called the
Lakshminarayan group of temples. The Hari Rai Temple near the
Chowgan,dates back to the 11th century & is noted for its exquisite
bronze image of Chaturmurti-the four armed Vishnu. The 10th century
wooden,Chamunda Devi Temple, just one km away from the
Chowgan overlooks the river & offers commanding view. Some
important shrines are-Champavati,Bajreshwari & Sui Mata.
Bhuri Singh Museum
Named after Raja Bhuri Singh (reign 1904-1919) of Chamba,this is a
treasure house of Chamba’s rich past & heritage. Other include, Rang
Mahal,this old mid 18th century palace is an interesting mix of colonial
& saracenic architectural style.
Around Chamba
BHARMAUR
65 km from Chamba,it remains the
capital of erstwhile Chamba state
between the 6th -10th centuries &
still retain the ruins of old castles.
It is renowned for its cluster of 84
temples-collectively known as the
Chaurasi.Through of varying
architectural designs, these 7-10th
centuries hill style temples are noted for
their fine workmanship.
MANIMAHESH
Chaurasi Temple
28km from Bharmaur,the lake of Manimahesh is scare to Lord Shiva & his
divine consort Parvati.Past Gaddi villages & wide meadows that give way to
bare rock & snow fields, this turn is three day trek from Bharmaur via Hadsar
& Dharchha.The deep blue waters of the lake ,rest at the feet of the
Manimahesh kailash Peak-regarded as on of the mythological adobes of Lord
Shiva. Every year after the Janamashtami festival, August/September a
pilgrimage (yatra),Manimahesh yatra,is conducted to the lake.
Kangra Valley
Is acknowledged as one of the Himachal’s most picturesque area. The
enchanting kangra valley,Trigarta of yore, lies between magnificent
Dhauladhar range & the Shivalik foothills. It starts near Mandi,run
north,then bend west & extend to Shahpur near Pathankot.Its gentle
slopes are covered with forests of pine,orchards,green tea garden &
terraced fields.Kangra valley is known for several of Hinduism’s most
scared shrines-Jwalamukhi,Baijnath,Bajreshwari Devi & other & several
recently built Buddhist monasteries. The valley is also famous for its
tea gardens especially around Palampur.Now the main tourist attraction
are Dharamsala & Mcleodganj-the seat of his Holiness Dalai Lama
followed by Palampur.
DHARAMSALA
Altitude
1380 m
Distance
Delhi 495 km,Chandigarh
253 km,Dharamsala-McLeodganj
10 km.
To the north, the kangra valley is flanked by the snow clad Dhauladhar ranges
of the Himalayas, to the side of which Dharamsala & McLeodganj (also called
Upper Dharamsala) clings. Surrounded by deodar forest, it is set against a
backdrop of massive snow capped peaks on three sides. Covering a wide area
in the form of twin settlement, Lower Dharamsala is busy commercial centre,
while the upper Dharamsala with the suburbs of McLeodganj &
Forsytheganj,retain a British flavour & colonial lifestyle.McLeodganj,named
after one time Lieutenant Governor of the Punjab, Sir D.McLeod is now best
known as the home of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the Buddhist spiritual head
& Nobel Laureate.
Places of Interest
Kangra Art Museum
In the Kotwali bazaar, this treasure trove of the Kangra valley arts,
crafts & rich past,exihibits artifacts that date back to the 5th century.
The display include Kangra’s renowned miniature
paintings,sculptures,pottery & anthropological items,coins,jewellery &
manuscripts.
War Memorial
At the west start of the town, landscaped lawns & web of narrow
paths fill a pine grove where a monument, The war Memorial, just
beyond the Yol Camp has been raised to commemorate the post
independence war heroes of Himachal Pradesh.Three huge panels of
black marble are etched with the names of the war heroes & those
men who sacrificed their lives in various peace keeping missions.
MCLEODGANJ
Often called the little Lhasa,this is the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama &
the Tibetan government-in-exile. The large Tibetan community & typical
architecture of the place lends it a distinct character. The impressive Namgyal
Monastery (Tsunglagkhang) in McLeodganj ,opposite the dalai Lama’s residence
at 5 min walk from the main bazaar, has large gilded bronzes of the
Buddha,Avalokteshwara(Chenresig,the Tibetan deity of compassion, of whom the
Dalai Lama is believed to be an incarnation),Padmasambhava.McLeodganj has the
Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) just 1km away. It organizes a 10
day festival that start on the second Sunday of April. The festival include folk
dance & play.
Dip-Tsechokling Gompa with its golden roof in a wooden valley is a beautiful
little monastery. Halfway between Kotwali Bazaar & McLeodganj,there is a small
museum & a Tibetan Library-the repository of Tibet’s rich cultural
hertiage,containing Tibet’s original manuscripts, a good range of reference books
& a photographic archive.
Norbulingka Institute
10 km from Dharamsala,this institute
is registered trust functioning under
the chairmanship of His Holiness the
Dalai Lama. It is a major centre for
Buddhist teaching & work, committed
to preservation of Tibetan culture & art.
Norbulingka Institute has three major
sections.
•The Academy of Tibetan Culture
•The Centre for Arts
•The Literary & Cultural Research Centre
Place of Interest
From McLeodganj there are a number of fine walks which include the 2
km stroll to Bhagsunath where there is a spring, a small ancient
temple, slate quarries & a small pretty waterfall beyond. A favorite
viewing point,Dharamkot ( 2100 m),3 km from McLeodganj ,offers a
panoramic view of Kangra valley & the Dhauladhar Peaks. The Dall
Lake ,4 km from McLeodganj bus stand , is a scenic spot surrounded
by deodar trees & fills a mountain bowl. Past the lake , the sightseeing
points at Naddi(1.5 km uphill) & Talnu present some spectacular
views. The temple Durgeshwara Mahadev is located by the
lake.Karai Lake (3250 m) 13 km, is beautiful set among the alpine
meadows & the forests of pine. At the foot of Dhauladhar,9km trek
from McLeodganj is Triund (2827 m) .
Chinmaya Tapovan
10 km from Dharamsala,on the banks of the rivulet Bindu Saras,this is
a tranquil ashram complex at Sidhbari established by the late Swami
Chinmayananda (1916-1993),one of the greatest Vedanta teachers.
Around Dharamsala
Formerly, the Pong dam Reservoir 55km , the shimmering waters of
the Maharana Pratap Sagar, are visible from Dharamsala.Fishing &
a variety of water sports are available along its length. On the
highway to Pathankot, 41 km from Dharamsala, a natural cave
temple at Trilokpur dedicated to Lord Shiva, has stalactite &
stalagmite formations. The large, monolithic temple complex of
Masrur,47 km, is the only shrine carved out of live rock in north
India.
Nurpur
66km from Dharamsala & 26 km from Pathankot, once known as
Dhameri, Nurpur is named after the Emperor Jahangir’s wife, Nur
Jahan-the Light of the World. It has the remains of an old fort. The
Krishna temple at Nurpur is noted for some fine wood carvings. The
town is known as a weaving centre of fine pashmina shawls &
sericulture centre.
KANGRA
18 km away from Dharamsala, the old town of Kangra was destroyed in an
earthquake in 1905.Once the capital of a powerful & important hill state , this
ancient town overlooking the Banganga river was also known as
Nagarkot.Kangra was known for its magnificent temples & as a centre of the
Pahari miniature paintings.Bajreshwari Devi Temple located here was once
known for its wealth in gold, diamonds & pearls & attracted many invaders from
the north over the centuries. The remains of the Kangra Fort about 1000 yrs
old, built on the confluence of the Banganga & Manjhi rivers, two & half km
south of the modern town of Kangra stand on a steep rock dominating the
valley.
Around Kangra
34 km south of Kangra ,the picturesque temple of Jwalamukhi recognized as
one of 51 Shaktipeeths has a gold dome installed by Raja Ranjit Singh.
Pragpur
65 km from Dharamsala, the small village of Pragpur is India’s first certified
heritage village. Just 4 km from here, another heritage village ,Garli,with some
interesting architecture & buildings is more impressive the Pragpur.
PALAMPUR
Just 35 km from Kangra & 38 km south east of Dharamsala,Palampur is
major station in the kangra valley. It was once a part of the kingdom of
Jalandhara.The name ‘Palampur’ come from the local word pulum or ‘lots
of water & it is water that has given the valley so much of its
character.Kangra tea, with its centre at Palampur is internationally
acclaimed.Palampur & its surroundings offers many adventure activities
like trekking,angling,gliding,safri & camping.Palampur is the base for
trans Dhauladhar routes entering into Chamba,Manali or Lahul valley
during summer. Fishing at Neugal,Binwa, Baner Khads & Beas river is a
popular sport among visitors.
Places of Interest
At the very start of the town, the Tea Factory
of the co-operative society offers an insight into
the processing of Kangra tea. The church,
surrounded by poinsettias has several memorial
tablets & an old cemetery. The 5th century
temple of Bundla Mata,2 km from bazaar
is approachable by a walk through tea
gardens & open fields. Close to the
Tea Garden at Palampur
temple is the 300m wide Neugal Khad,
through which flows the tiny Bundla stream.
13 km , the charming village of Andretta is associated with the famous artists Sardar
Sobha Singh, Norah Richards & BC Sanyal.This also has a pottery & crafts centre.Sardar
Sobha Singh created many of his famous works-Sohni Mahiwal,Heer Ranjha & several
religious paintings while living at Andretta.His home, now a gallery, display several of his
important works.11 km,Al Hilal, or ‘the Land of the Crescent Moon’ holds the palace of
the former ruler of Bhawalpur (now in Pakistan). Now called Taragarh after Maharani
Tara Devi of the former princely state of Jammu & Kashmir, the art deco mansion is now a
heritage hotel.24 km , Bir,surrounded by tea gardens has a Tibetan monastery & serve as
landing ground for Hang/Para gliders. One of the best paragliding sites, Billing is 14 km
from Bir.
The Temples
The architectural & spiritual beauty
of the Baijnath Temple is 15 km
from Palampur is a big draw for
pilgrimage & visitors. The
Chamunda Devi Temple 18 km ,
is famous temple with the
majestic Dhauladhar as backdrop.
The monastery of Tashijong,
12 km ,also has a Tibetan craft
production & a sale outlet.
Lahaul & Spiti,Kinnaur
LAHAUL
Altitude
3350 m
Distance
Manali 115 km,
Spiti 188 km,
Shimla 395 km.
Chandratal Lake
The district of Lahaul, lying on the Hindustan Tibet border, is
characterized by arid mountainous landscape. fed by the twin rivers
of Chandra & Bhaga,which later join to form the Chandrabhaga
(Chenab), Lahaul valley is enclosed by the Greater Himalayas on the
north,Pirpanjal on the south & the Spiti Chandra watershed on the
east. The whole region is approachable from three directions:
Shimla on the Hindustan-Tibet Road via Kinnaur;from Manali over
the Rohtang Pass & from Zanskar & Ladakh over the Shingo La &
Baralacha La respectively.
KEYLONG (3350 m)
Keylong is the headquarters
of Lahaul & Spiti district of
Himachal Pradesh. Located
in the heart of Lahaul, it has
been described by an early
British traveler as a barbaric
jewel,' a rough cut emerald in
Keylong
a bronze & silver setting’.
Keylong is popular halt up the journey from Manali to Leh & is also
used as a base for treks in the Lahaul-Spiti area. A number of
monasteries are located in the vicinity of Keylong
Major Buddhist Monasteries
The important monasteries easily accessible from Keylong are Guru
Ghantal ( 8 km); Khardang ( 5 km);Shashur ( 3km);Tayul ( 6 km)
& Gemur (18 km).
TRILOKINATH (2760 m)
53 km from Keylong, 4km from Udaipur,revered by both Hindus &
Buddhists, the Trilokinath temple stands atop a cliff overlooking the
Chenab below. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in pagoda style
has been restored by the Tibetan Buddhists & has a small Shivalinga
& stone Nandi in its courtyard.
UDAIPUR (2650 m)
Located in upper Lahaul,10 km from junction with the Trilokinath
roa,52 km from Keylong in the Pattan valley,Udaipur( earlier name
Markul) has an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Durga.This
Hindu temple of Mrikula Devi,built in 15th century by the ruler of
Chamba has some beautiful, intricate wood carving & a silver image
of the goddess Mahishasurmardini.Udaipur is the starting point for a
number of exciting treks to Chamba-Kistwar & Padam.
SPITI
Altitude
Above 4000m
Distance from Kaza
Manali 202 km,
Shimla 410 km.
Spiti,bound from the north-south by Ladakh & Kullu regions
respectively,Kinnaur on the south west & Tibet on the east, form the Spiti
subdivision of Lahaul & Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh. The administrative
seat of Spiti,is at Kaza.The word ‘Spiti’ means a ‘middle country’ in local
parlance-name given as a result of its proximity & ties with both India &
Tibet.
A high altitude cold desert, where the monsoon rain never comes,Spiti,is
surrounded by the trans Himalayan mountain ranges (over 7000 m).The main
Spiti valley, forms a basin for several swift flowing glacial streams among
which Lingti & Pin rivers are the important ones.
A century ago, Rudyard Kipling in Kim called Spiti ‘ a world within a world’ & ‘
a place where the gods live’.
These Sino-Tibetan speaking people, belonging to the Mongoloid race
identified as Kirats in the ancient texts have a strong Buddhist traditions.
Dominated by the Gelukpa sect the valley known as little Tibet is a land of
tales & fantasies. The landscapes in Spiti is dotted with several Buddhist
monasteries or gompas strung along the valley.Spiti is a veritable paradise for
the adventure seekers & a trekker’s delight with several untrodden tracks
across the trans Himalayan ridges & valleys.
TABO (3050 m)
A small town , not far off from Sumdo,
365 km from Shimla,47 km from Kaza,
houses Tabo Gompa founded in 996 AD
having exquisite wall paintings & stucco
statues.Tabo is a World Heritage Site of
UNESCO.
Tabo
DHANKAR (3370 m)
Driving towards Kaza from Tabo,7 km
from the turn off at Schichling on the
highway, this monastery was once the
castle of the ruler of Spiti,the Nono.
PIN VALLEY
At ,Atrangoo,10 km from Schichling
village, a side road leads to this valley
Dhankar Gompa
formed by the Pin river, a tributary
of the Spiti.The Pin valley lies below
the Gungri glacier & has several monasteries-the important one at Gungri
illustrates Trantric Buddhism housing old relics & paintings. Its fossil rich
snowy cliffs are famous. The lowest point of the Pin valley is at Mud Pharka
(3355 m) & the highest,Pin-Parvati Jot (5490 m).The highest altitude Pin
Valley National Park conserves the endangered snow leopard,ibex,blue
sheep & other rare species in its habitat. The Hangrang & the Lingti valley’s
are the trekker’s paradise.
KAZA (3660 m)
A little deeper along the valley, Kaza,
13 km from Lingti village, is the
administrative headquarter of Spiti.It
has a market place, medical facilities, a
filling station, government accommodation
& hotels.Kaza serves as the base for
excursions to nearby monasteries.
Kaza
The most important is the Ki (key) Gompa (12 km).Among others
are at Losar (55 km),Lalung Gompa (22 km),Langja & Hikim etc.
Past Ki comes Kibber (4205 m), the highest permanently inhabited
village of the region connected by a motorable road. It also acts as the
base for several high altitude treks. The residence of Kibber in winter
brave minus 35°C temperature.
KINNAUR
Altitude
3350 m
Distance
Shimla 200 km.
Ki Gompa
Legend has it that Kinnaur with all its beauty & splendor fell from
the clouds to take its place in the Himalayas. The strikingly beautiful
district Kinnaur is bound to the north by the Zanskar range & to the
south, the Greater Himalaya. Close to the border with Tibet, two
large rivers, the Sutlej & the Spiti have carved deep gorges through
the high ranges. The slopes are covered with the thick woods, while
the basins hold orchards, fields & picturesque hamlets.Rekong Peo is
the district capital of the Kinnaur.There is wealth of local
architectute,breathtaking natural beauty, fishing & trekking.
Practically all the main travel destinations lie along the valley floors.
SANGLA VALLEY (2680 m)
Also called the Baspa Valley, is
located on the left bank of the
Baspa river (95 km long),226 km
from Shimla,one of the most
picturesque glaciated valley in
Sangla Valley
the world, it offers an enchanting
vista at every curve. The valley is surrounded by high rugged
mountains on all sides, most of them rocky & starkly barren. The lush
green slopes of Sangla & the sight of milky streams breaking from
underneath the moraines weaves its magical spell on you.
Trekking in Sangla valley is an experience. Trek to Sangla Kanda is
most rewarding & Sangla’s most revered product bhojpatra is
distinctively found here. The bark of the scared bhojpatra tree was
used for writing centuries ago. The trek between Sangla & Chitkul
offers the valley’s wilderness & magnificent views of the barren
mountains.
PACKAGE TOURS
OF
HIMACHAL PRADESH
Pack HT-05
HIMACHAL CALLING
12NIGHTS/13DAYS
Himachal Pradesh is a Beautiful Land, inhabited by people of
various caste, creed and religious groups, inspite of its
heterogeneous social and cultural agglomeration, there is a
common feeling among all of them, i.e. THE PRIDE OF BEING
HIMACHALI ".
DAY 01 DELHI-SHIMLA (370 KMS ---8-9HRS)
Morning arrive Chandigarh and transfer to Shimla (An Ancient Capital
of Britishers) Arrive Shimla and Check in Hotel. Dinner at Hotel and
overnight stay.
DAY 02 SHIMLA
Morning after Breakfast start for the full day Sight Seeing of Kufri,
Naldehra and Jakku Temple. Evening free for Leisure. Dinner at Hotel
and overnight stay.
DAY 03 SHIMLA
Morning after Breakfast start for the sight seeing tour for Sankat
Mochan, Advance Study( Britishers Achievement), State Museum The
Mall, Ridge, City Church . Dinner at Hotel and overnight stay.
DAY 04 SHIMLA-MANALI (260 KMS ---7-8HRS)
Morning after Breakfast Check Out From Hotel and Depart for Manali
with Sight seeing of SUNDERNAGAR LAKE, KULLU VALLEY, PANDOH
DAM arrival at Manali Check In Hotel . Evening dinner at Hotel and
overnight stay.
DAY 05 MANALI
Morning After Breakfast start for the Sight Seeing of Rohtang Pass (
A Hundred years old Snow Glacier), Solang Nallah famous for
Adventure Activities ( Rock Climbing, Zummaring, Para-Gliding,
rapling etc.), Evening dinner at Hotel and Overnight Stay.
DAY 06 MANALI
Morning after Breakfast start for the Sight Seeing of Old Manali visit
Manu Temple, Vashist Temple, Hadimba Devi Temple (A glance of
Himachali Articture), Van vihar and Monastery and Naggar & castle .
Evening dinner at hotel and overnight stay.
DAY 07 MANALI-PALAMPUR (220 KMS – 6-7HRS)
Early morning after breakfast Check-Out from Hotel and transfer to
Palampur. On the way see Jogindernagar Valley and visit Baijnath
temple. Evening arrive Palampur. Check-in-to hotel. Dinner and O/N
at hotel.
DAY 08 PALAMPUR-DHARAMSHALA ( 40 KMS – 1 ½ HR)
Early morning after breakfast drive towards Andretta Potteries
Afternoon lunch at Palampur. After Lunch towards proceed to next
destination Chinmaya Tapovan Trust. Evening arrive Dharamshala
(Meclodganj). Check-in-to hotel. Dinner and O/N at hotel.
DAY 09 DHARAMSHALA-KHAJJIAR ( 150 KMS --- 4-5 HRS)
Morning after Breakfast Check-out from hotel and transfer to Khajjiar via jot,
Afternoon arrive Khajjiar. Day free for leisure. Evening dinner at hotel and
overnight stay.
DAY 10 KHAJJIAR- DALHOUSIE (27 KMS--- 1HR)
Morning Breakfast and afternoon Check-out from hotel and transfer to
Dalhousie. Arrive Dalhousie check-in-to hotel. Evening dinner at hotel and
overnight at hotel.
DAY 11 DALHOUSIE
After Breakfast start for the Local Sight Seeing of Dalhousie With Scenic Beauty
of Bakrota Hill, Bathri View, Pangi View, & water falls of SubhashBowli, Satdhara,
Panjpulla) Evening dinner at Hotel and overnight stay.
DAY 12 DALHOUSIE-CHANDIGARH ( 300KMS—8-9 HRS)
Morning after breakfast Depart for Chandigarh. Evening arrive at Chandigarh,
check-in-to hotel. Dinner and overnight at hotel.
DAY 13 CHANDIGARH –DELHI ( 250KMS – 5HRS)
Morning after breakfast Depart to own Native place to close some
"Melodious Memories" of Himachal 's Culture, Tradition, Cuisine,
Leaving Standard and many more.
Tour price stand to vary as it will be you who will be designing your
itineraries but we assure you that we are committed to give you the
best value for money
END OF OUR SERVICES
So Come, Lets begin us the Journey of Himachal
Hurry Up, Snowy Peaks- High Mountains & Natural Beauty of
"Himachal" waiting your Arrival.
Trekking in Himachal Pradesh
Himachal is a paradise for walkers,
trekkers,hikers,skiers,rafters, climbers
& mountaineers. Innumerable treks
originate or culminate in the beautiful
valley of Kullu & Manali, Chamba &
Kangra.Several mountain passes connect
normally inaccessible valleys. Local people have been crossing these
passes for centuries with their flock of sheep & goats. Trekkers can
enjoy unparalleled beauty on these trails. Most of the trails are safe
& defined. Several mountain passes do not require technical skill or
mountaineering equipments. There are countless trails that are easy
even for the inexperienced. At the same time innumerable tough
treks also beckon lovers of wilderness.
Trek-HT-09
Malana Trek Via Chanderkhani
Duration:
06 Days
Grade: Easy
Places Covered : Manali - Nagar - Rumsu
- Chanderkarni Pass - Malana
Day 01: Arrive Delhi/Chandigarh/Manali
Arrive Delhi or Chandigarh and travel by surface to Manali. Overnight at hotel.
Day 02: Manali/Nagar/ Rumsu
Morning travel by surface to Nagar-Rumsu: Walking Time 2-3 hrs. Nagar at
1840 m is famous for it's castle and it's history of being state capitol of Kullu
Valley. Rumsu at 2060m is a small village.
Day 03 : Rumsu/ Chandrakhani
Rumsu-Base of Chandrakani Pass : Walking Time 5 hrs. Trail goes through
local shepherds area where they graze their flocks. It offers a bird's view of
Kullu valley & Dhauladhar Range.
Day 04 : Chandrakhani/ Malana
Crossing Pass-Malana: Walking Time 6hrs. After crossing series of
pastures trail ascends gradually and pass is just 3650m. From pass
you can see White Sail ( 6446m) & Papsura (6451m). Malana is a
small village and very popular among trekkers as it has it's own
language, custom and beliefs. And is governed by it's village elders.
Some says they are from Greek race which settles after Alexandra
The Great returns back after invading India and some trekkers feel
that language spoken is much closer to " Hibru" and is related with
Christ.
Day 05 : Malana /Manali
Malana -Manali: Walking Time 4 hrs. From Malana( 2650m) it's all
descending to valley floor and from there Travel by surface to Manali.
Day 06: Manali
Full day sightseeing of Manali. Overnight at hotel.
Day 07: Manali/Delhi/Further Destination
Morning transfer to Bhuntar airport to board flight for Delhi or Travel By
surface to Delhi.
End of Tour and Our Services
Tour price stand to vary as it will be you who will be designing your itineraries
but we assure you that we are committed to give you the best value for
money
Tour price stand to vary as it will be you who will be designing your
itineraries but we assure you that we are committed to give you the
best value for money
Trek-HT-10
Beas Kund Trek
Duration:
07 Days
Places Covered : Manali - Solang – Dhundi
- Bakkar Thach - Beas Kund.
Day 01: Travel from Chandigarh to Solang
Valley through Kullu and Manali. Solang
Valley is 17 kms. from Manali. This is
aprox 250 kms. of journey which
starts from foothills of Himalayas and reaches close to tale of Pir Panjal which is
largest Himalayan Range .
Day 02 : Rest Day at Solang Valley.
Day 03 : Manali - Solang - Drive of 17 km.
We pass by many interesting villages. Solong offers fabulous views of snow
capped peaks. Overnight and meals in camp.
Day 04 : Solong - Dhundi - 3 hrs trek
A gentle walk along the bank of the river brings us to our camp. Glimpses of
Indrasan (6220m ) and Deo Tibba ( 6000m ) are obtainable from here.
Overnight camp on full board basis
Day 05 : Dhundi - Bakkar Thach Beas Kund - Dhundi - 6 hrs
trek
A gradual ascent involving walking over loose rocks, remnants of
glacier. Return to our camp at Dundi for overnight camp.
Day06 : Bakkar Thach - Beas Kund - Bakkar Thach : Shift of
camp to Beas Kund depends on good weather. Packed lunch will be
provided for a full day excursion in Beas Kund plateau and we come
back in evening to Bakkar Thach-which is a high altitude shepherd
field.
Day 07 : Bakkar Thach - Solong - Manali Tour Ends.
End of Tour and Our Services
Tour price stand to vary as it will be you who will be designing your
itineraries but we assure you that we are committed to give you the
best value for money
Trek-HT-11
HAMPTA PASS - CHANDERTAL
One of the most scenic high altitude treks in Himachal Pradesh, it
takes one to the crystal clear waters of Chandertal and barren
landscape in the upper regions and the green valleys below, make the
trail awe-inspiring and one of the must-experience ones in this part of
the Himalayas.
SEASON: July - Mid September
MAX. ALTITUDE: 4830m
NUMBER OF DAYS: 11 days
HIGH PASSES: Hampta Pass, Rohtang Pass
and Baralacha La
TREK GRADIENT: Moderate
Day 01: The participants arrive in Manali.
Day 02: Manali - Panduropa / Setan (2700m) via Chhalet &
Hampta villages
Duration: 4 hours
The steepest part of the trail takes about 2 hours to negotiate. It
passes through apple orchards and forests of blue pine, cedar, oak, fir
and chestnut. The villages that the trail passes through - Chhalet,
Hampta and Ghoratbari - have an interesting legend. They lie on the
way to heaven and when people die, their souls have to pass these
villages. It is said that people here hear sounds of crying if the soul is
condemned to hell and sounds of a trumpet if it is ascending to
heaven.
Day 03: Panduropa / Setan - Juara (3530m)
Duration: 5 hours
The path to Juara is through Chhika. The trek passes through some
spectacular landscape to just below the Hamta Pass, on a grassy bank
sloping down from the cliffs. The impressive grandeur of immediate
surroundings, the nearness of the Tokru-Shakru peaks, the wonderful
coloring of the rocks and mountainside, all make this one of the best
campsite on the route. Chikka also has the river, Alain Mullah, which
has its snout in the Hamta Pass.
Day 04: Juara - Shea Gahru (3200m) via Hampta Pass
(4270m)
Duration: 6 hours
The trail now begins to ascend towards Hamta Pass and one can have
close views of Deo Tibba and Indrasan peaks. After that, it is a
descent all the way right to the campsite at Shea Gahru. "Shea
Gahru" means a very cold place in the Spiti dialect because it is
adjacent to a glacier snout. During summer, it's a grazing pasture or
halting place for the shepherds on the way to the Lahaul valley.
Day 05: Shea Gahru - Chhatru (3360m)
Duration: 3 hours
The fourth day's walk is quite easy, along the river up to a boulder
field, which is hard to cross during the monsoons. The river has to be
forded at one point from where one can see the valleys of Lahaul and
Spiti. The massive mountains of the Pir Panjal and Spiti ranges
dominate the entire landscape till the campsite at Chhatru. Chhatru is
a confluence point of paths from Rohtang Pass, Hamta Pass and Spiti.
Day 06: Chhatru - Batal (3960m)
Duration: 2 hours
Take a local transport to go from Chhatru to Batal.
Day 07: Batal - Chandertal (4270m)
Duration: 4 hours
The trail starts off as a pleasant walk along the pastures bordering
Chandra River. The path then leads over the rubble-strewn plateau,
crosses a small stream and continues traversing the slope. The track
is almost level, with a few ups and downs up to Chadertal. This high
altitude lake is a majestic sight, surrounded as it is by the mighty
Himalayan peaks. A vast flowerbed meadow is the camping site on
the banks of the lake.
Day 08: Rest day at Chandertal (4270m)
Day 09: Chandertal/Batal/ Manali
Back trek to Batal. Thereafter travel by surface to Manali. Arrive
Manali and overnight at hotel.
Day 10:Manali to Delhi
Morning after breakfast travel by surface to Delhi.
Tour price stand to vary as it will be you who will be designing your
itineraries but we assure you that we are committed to give you the
best value for money
Trek-HT-12 (Extension of HT-11)
HAMPTA PASS - CHANDERTAL - BARALACHA LA
One of the most scenic high altitude treks in Himachal Pradesh, it takes one to
the crystal clear waters of Chandertal and then through the high passes of
Baralacha-La. Culturally, it's the threshold to the mystical Buddhism practiced
in Spiti, Lahaul, Ladakh and Tibet. The barren landscape in the upper regions
and the green valleys below, make the trail awe-inspiring and one of the mustexperience ones in this part of the Himalayas.
SEASON: July - Mid September
MAX. ALTITUDE: 4830m
NUMBER OF DAYS: 11 days
HIGH PASSES: Hampta Pass, Rohtang Pass
and Baralacha La
TREK GRADIENT: Moderately challenging
Baralacha La
Day 01: The participants arrive in Manali.
Day 02: Manali - Panduropa / Setan (2700m) via Chhalet &
Hampta villages
Duration: 4 hours
The steepest part of the trail takes about 2 hours to negotiate. It
passes through apple orchards and forests of blue pine, cedar, oak, fir
and chestnut. The villages that the trail passes through - Chhalet,
Hampta and Ghoratbari - have an interesting legend. They lie on the
way to heaven and when people die, their souls have to pass these
villages. It is said that people here hear sounds of crying if the soul is
condemned to hell and sounds of a trumpet if it is ascending to
heaven.
Day 03: Panduropa / Setan - Juara (3530m)
Duration: 5 hours
The path to Juara is through Chhika. The trek passes through some
spectacular landscape to just below the Hamta Pass, on a grassy bank
sloping down from the cliffs. The impressive grandeur of immediate
surroundings, the nearness of the Tokru-Shakru peaks, the wonderful
coloring of the rocks and mountainside, all make this one of the best
campsite on the route. Chikka also has the river, Alain Mullah, which
has its snout in the Hamta Pass.
Day 04: Juara - Shea Gahru (3200m) via Hampta Pass (4270m)
Duration: 6 hours
The trail now begins to ascend towards Hamta Pass and one can have
close views of Deo Tibba and Indrasan peaks. After that, it is a
descent all the way right to the campsite at Shea Gahru. "Shea Gahru"
means a very cold place in the Spiti dialect because it is adjacent to a
glacier snout. During summer, it's a grazing pasture or halting place
for the shepherds on the way to the Lahaul valley.
Day 05: Shea Gahru - Chhatru (3360m)
Duration: 3 hours
The fourth day's walk is quite easy, along the river up to a boulder
field, which is hard to cross during the monsoons. The river has to be
forded at one point from where one can see the valleys of Lahaul and
Spiti. The massive mountains of the Pir Panjal and Spiti ranges
dominate the entire landscape till the campsite at Chhatru. Chhatru is
a confluence point of paths from Rohtang Pass, Hamta Pass and Spiti.
Day 06: Chhatru - Batal (3960m)
Duration: 2 hours
Take a local transport to go from Chhatru to Batal.
Day 07: Batal - Chandertal (4270m)
Duration: 4 hours
The trail starts off as a pleasant walk along the pastures bordering
Chandra River. The path then leads over the rubble-strewn plateau,
crosses a small stream and continues traversing the slope. The
track is almost level, with a few ups and downs up to Chadertal.
This high altitude lake is a majestic sight, surrounded as it is by the
mighty Himalayan peaks. A vast flowerbed meadow is the camping
site on the banks of the lake.
Day 08: Rest day at Chandertal (4270m)
Day 09: Chandertal - Tokpoyongma (4320m)
Duration: 7 hours
This is a gradual walk as the trail rises and falls several times, but
mostly continues beside the river. Approaching Tokpoyongma, the
trail ascends from the mountainside and crosses a stream. A little
before the campsite, a river has to be negotiated.
Day 10: Tokpoyongma - Tokpogongma (4640m)
Duration: 5 hours
The next day starts early to facilitate crossing a two mountain streams before
the water level rises during the day. Mules don't take this route, as they will
find it difficult to negotiate the steep ascent that starts immediately after the
streams. The track then ascends steeply across the rock face and up a hill to
the campsite.
Day 11: Tokpogongma - Baralacha-La (4833m) - Manali
Duration: 6 hours
The day starts off with a half-hour steep ascent to the top of the ridge. After
that, the trail proceeds through a boulder field with great views of the Koa
Range peaks to the Southwest. Before reaching Baralacha-La one has to cross
a stream. In ancient times, Baralacha-La was an important part of the trade
route as roads from Spiti, Ladakh, Zanskar and Lahaul meet here. On the
Northwest lies the Bhaga River while the Chandra flows to the Southeast. Near
Baralacha-La is the beautiful emerald lake, Suraj Tal, the source of the Bhaga
River. From Baralacha-La, a jeep will take the team to Manali.Overnight at
hotel.
Day 12:Manali to Delhi
Morning after breakfast travel by surface to Delhi.
Tour price stand to vary as it will be you who will be designing your
itineraries but we assure you that we are committed to give you the
best value for money
Tour packages
While designing an itinerary, we have always involved our
patrons with it. Some such itineraries are outlined below and We
welcome you to make one of your own.
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Himalayan Odessies
Kerala elixir
Sun n Sand – Goa
Rajasthan on a platter
Wild life excursions
Vintage India
Pilgrimages
Glimpses of India
About the company
 We are Highlander Tours and Travels. We specialize in
tailor made itineraries for the discerning clientele. Our
areas of operations have been HIMALYAN ADVENTURE
TOURS, BUDDHIST AND HINDU PILGRIMAGES and
HISTORICAL TOURS. Our “GLIMPSES OF INDIA” has
been a hit with Indian diasporas as well as foreigners.
It comprises three sections – NORTH-WEST, CENTRAL
and SOUTH covering the respective areas of India.
 Our head office is in Sunder Nagar, Himachal Pradesh
and branch offices at Agra and Goa . In additions to
that we have associates in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh,
Kerala and Kolkatta whose reliability we have come to
trust over time during our associations with them.
For any other further quires or information please contact us at
Arvind Kashyap
Highlander Tours ‘n’ Travels
Naresh,Chowk,Changar Colony,
Sundernagar,Distt Mandi,
Himachal Pradesh-174402
Email:- [email protected]
Phone:- +91-9227777046
Fax:+91-9107263967
Mr. S.Kumar
Highlander Tours ‘n’ Travels
53/4G, Shop No. 9
U P Tower,Sanjay Place,
Agra
Email:- [email protected]
Phone:- +91-9897659306