Sightseeing
Dalhousie Khajjiar
Dalhousie
Dalhousie is one of the most popular Hill Stations in Himachal and there is lot to explore around Dalhousie. This is small and very well maintained town in Chamba region of Himachal Pradesh. This Photo Journey shares some of the exciting places around Chamba and how to plan a good one day tour through Khajjiar, Chamba & Chamera etc.
Panchpula
Panchpula, a charming place, is just 3 km away from Dalhousie. This is one of the most attractive spots in the region. Panchpula literally means a place having five bridges. The words ‘Panch’ (five) and ‘Pul’ (bridge) combine to form ‘Panchpula’. This is the main watercourse which supplies water to the two cities, Dalhousie and Bahloon. You can see the Satadhara waterfall on your way to Panchpula.
Subash Baoli
Subhash Baoli is located at a distance of 1 Km from Dalhousie is the picturesque view of Subhash Baoli.The place has been known by the name Subhash Chandra Bose,the famous freedom fighter had Spent many time in this zone in 1937. Subhash Baoli is a charismatic spot amongst huge towering pine trees.Which makes this place more beautiful with their presence.The natural sight views of the place makes is one of the most famous tourist spots in Dalhousie.
Bara Pathar
Bara Pathar is 4 km away from General Post Office, Dalhousie enroute kalatop. Between thick woods are the small temple of Bhulwani Mata Temple (4 Kms) or also called the Bhavani Mata temple in the village of Ahla on the way to kalatop.A fair celebrated in July venerates the goddess.
Kalatop
The Kalatop Wild Life Sanctuary is one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in Himachal Pradesh.It is expanded over an area of 1962 hectares the sanctuary is Kalatop Wild Life Sanctuary Dalhousie irrigated by the River which is known as Ravi.You can also see the beautiful or attractive hills,associated with snow-capped mountains,the valleys,the villages,the rich greenery and the hardness of the neighborhood from the place.This Sanctuary is a not to miss attraction nearby Dalhousie.
Gandhi Chowk
Gandhi Chowk is the most famous and main attraction in Dalhousie. It is a shopping place because there are many different types of shopping material available. Formerly known as GPO, Gandhi Chowk is a spirited plaza with abundant bistros and shops.Among the many shops situated here is the Tibetan market is worth a visit as it sells multiple goods ranging from traditional handicrafts to electronic goods. There is a coffee shop known by the name of the Dalhousie cafe area, it is a rabble place filled with the visitors.
Dainkund
Dainkund Peak is a stunning tourist place, perched at an altitude of 2755 meters, is the supreme mount in Dalhousie.
From this peak tourists can relish 360° view of the entire valley. The noise of the breeze passing through the trees makes a musical sound, due to which this peak has also obtained the name, the singing hill.
Sadar Bazar
This is the area which is most populated, the street has a Hindu temple, Gurudawara, Arya Samaj Mandir and Mosque which all are located side by side.
Lakkarmandi
Few families of the Dhogri community, who hail from Mandi in Kangra valley live here. They make their living by making and selling charcoal. The shops here sell fresh cottage cheese, and other things which taste wonderfull.
Khajinag Temple
The beautiful town of Khajjiar takes its name from the Khajinag Temple. Constructed back in the 12th century, this temple is dedicated to the Naag Devta (local deity). Being one of the most highly regarded shrines and pilgrims, it attracts tourists and visitors from all over the place. Wooden images of the Pandava brothers, images of the Pandavas and the Kauravas hanging from the roof are really fascinating to watch. The temple and the area around have overwhelming beauty with lush green meadows, forests and a small pristine lake in the centre of the khajjiar.
Kailash View
From the Khajjiar ground glimpses of Mount Kailash are available on a clear day. It is believed that Mount Kailash is the home to Lord Shiva, the main deity of the Himachal region.
Dharamshala
Naddi
The village of Naddi is situated at a height of 7,152 feet above sea level (2180 m) and offers a magnificent view of Dhauladhar mountain range to the north and the vast expanse of the lush green Kangra Valley to the south. Naddi is situated away from the hustle and bustle of McLeod Ganj and provides complete peace of mind to for anyone who travels to this quite village.
The village mostly attracts families that want a weekend getaway from the nearby towns and cities.
DAL LAKE
The sacred Dal lake with natural water body is 11km from Lower Dharamshala connected by motorable road. It is the starting point of excursions and trekking and is located next to the Tibetan Children’s village. The lake is a scenic picnic spot surrounded by the forests of Deodar. There is a temple of Durveshwar Mahadev by the side of the lake. A colourful annual fair is held every september on the ady of Radhaashtami. Dal lake is spot of religious importance, besides, a place of tourist attraction.
CHURCH OF ST. JOHN IN THE WILDERNESS
Fifteen minutes’ walk from McLeod Gunj, the Anglican church lies in the forest near Forsyth Gunj. This neo-Gothic stone church was built in 1852 and has some fine Belgian stained-glass windows. It miraculously survived the 1905 earthquake – only the spire collapsed. A memorial to Lord Elgin stands in the churchyard. The British Viceroy died in Dharamsala and is buried here. Visiting hours for the church and cemetery are 10 am to 5 pm each day.
BHAGSUNAG
This ancient temple is 1 kms from Mcleodganj. Close to this temple is a beautiful waterfall.Near the Dal Lake is the shrine of Bhagsunath an easy walk from the Mecleod ganj. Famous for its ancient temple and a pretty waterfall not far away. The rock temple dedicated to local Goddess is just 3 km from Kotwali Bazaar.
Dharamkot
Dharamkot is a small hippie village near McLeod area, ideal for a few days’ time off from real world or months away if you’re lucky enough to take time off work for that long.
Dharamkot is the perfect base for multiple treks such as Triund, Illaqua, Indrahar Pass, etc.
Mcleodganj Market
McLeod Ganj Central Square. Well-known for having Nowrojee and Son, the oldest shop in the city founded in 1860, the area has beautiful stores selling wooden carvings, Thangka tapestry paintings and handicrafts.
Dalai Lama Temple
The town of McLeod Ganj in Upper Dharamsala is known worldwide as His Holiness the Dalai Lama resides here and is also known as Little Lhasa of Tibet. The main temple is where His Holiness the Dalai Lama gives teachings several times a year. His Holiness’ residence is located near the main temple and the headquarters of the Tibetan Government in Exile is located just below McLeod Ganj.
Kangra Art Museum
Museum of Kangra Art was opened on 17 January, 1990 to preserve, conserve and revive the rich cultural heritage of Kangra region. Museum is a treasure house of rich heritage of the valleys art and culture, located near Kotwali Bazaar at Dharmshala.
Museum is still in infancy but now the collection is incresead to 1500 art object comprising miniature paintings, textiles, sculptures, jewellery, coins and objects of cultural anthropology.
Tea Estate & Garden Dharamshala
When you head for McLeodganj from Dharamshala through the long route (not from the shortcut that goes from within the market), you will find a very wide elbow turn. On the edge, there is a sign board of the Tea Plantation of Dharamshala. At 10 mins. walking distance, you will reach a place, covered with dense green leaves and filled with magnificent aroma of fresh tea.
Kunal Pathri Temple
Kunal Pathri is a little rock temple dedicated to goddess Durga in Dharamshala. Located in the beautiful Dhauladhar Ranges in Kangra district, this ancient temple is surrounded by dense tea gardens and is the perfect place for a long peaceful walk amidst the lush surroundings. The temple displays exquisite carvings of gods and goddesses. It is said that there is a stone in the temple that always remains wet. According to local legend, the moment it starts drying, it rains. It is believed that when goddess Sati, wife of Lord Shiva, died, her skull had fallen here on this spot.
War Memorial
Among many places to see in picturesque Dharamshala, War memorial i.e “Sahid Smark” is famous for its beauty and for proudly commemorating the memory of the war heroes who fought bravely for their motherland and sacrificed their lives to save its people and respect. This War Memorial was built as a tribute to the brave Indian soldiers who fought for their country. This place is very calm and is surrounded by a lots of different trees and pines. To reach War Memorial is pretty easy.The memorial is situated near the entry point to Dharamshala, as we are about to reach Dharamshala from Kangra or Gaggal airport, we find war memorial as a first place to see in Dharamshala. We can locate War Memorial about 1 km before Dharamshala main bus stand on the main highway.
International Criket Stadium
HPCA Cricket stadium set against the backdrop of the dramatic snow clad mountains, is perched on the high slopes in the upper reaches of Kangra valley. Today, Dharamshala has become the synonymous to the Tibetan government in exile and the home town of Tibetan leader His Holiness Dalai Lama along with the Cricket Stadium. It is not only noted for its cool salubrious air and its stunning mountain scenery but known for serene ambience, rolling meadows and spell binding views.
Indru Naag Temple
Indrunag is a temple (at altitude 2000 m) constructed by the villagers of the surrounding areas , dedicated to god of snake or god of rains . This place has a very magical touch of pines and cedars together. The sunset over the horizon is a real splendid to watch, its rays when fall over the Pong lake creates an awesome view and the water looks like gold. Para gliding activity is also conducted at this place. There is a café here where you can enjoy beverages and fast food.
Baba Baroh Temple
Baba Baroh is a tehsil in Kangra district, India known for a temple made of white marble to Radha Krishan and the Goddess Durga. This temple is famous for the largest amount of white marble used for any temple in Himachal Pradesh. Baba Baroh is located 23 km from Kangra. In this temple there is an idol of Goddess Durga made of metal.It was built by Mr.Bali Ram Sharma
Norbulingka Temple
The Norbulingka Institute The Norbulingka Institute of Tibetan Culture was founded by the Department of Religion and Culture to preserve and promote Tibetan art and culture in exile. Norbulingka Institute in Dharamsala has taken the initiative to preserve the roots of Tibetan culture in exile. The institute is sited in a scenic valley below Dharamsala.
AGHANJAR MAHADEV TEMPLE
Aghanjar mahadev temple is situated at a distance of 5 km from Dharamshala and in the Khaniyara village near manji river at the foothills of dhauladhar. This Shiva temple is very unique,very old and is illustrious for its scenic beauties. It is believed that this temple was created by pandavas. A little water fall is there behind the temple with continuous water flowing around the temple. After passing through terribly little bridge we tend to reach a cave and within that cave a knife Ling is a gift to see. This temple is believed to be five hundred years old. This shiva temple and its surroundings offers a great relief and a water stream with cold breeze to enjoy peace. This is a beautiful place to relax and capture the moments of natural beauty.
Naam Art Gallery
The exhibition in ‘NAAM ART GALLERY’ exhibits paintings by Elsbeth Buschmann – watercolours and acrylics – and oil paintings by Alfred W. Hallett. Elsbeth Buschmann, is a professional painter from Germany, having studied painting in London and Paris .
She lived in many countries where she held exhibitions, especially in the USA where she received various awards. Her paintings are in private collections in Germany, USA, Scotland, India and Switzerland. In India she held solo exhibitions at AIFAX, New Delhi and TAG, the Art Gallery of the Taj Mahal Hotel, Mumbai. She also took part in ‘The Himalayan National Exhibition of Art’ and was awarded.
CHINMAYA TAPOVAN
An ashram complex has been established by late Swami Chinmayananda, a noted exponent of the Gita, at a distance of approximately 10 km from Dharamsala on the banks of the rivulet Bindu Saras. The complex includes a 9 m high image of Lord Hanuman, a magnificent Rama temple, a meditation hall, a school, and a health and recreation centre.
GYUTO MONASTERY
The Gyuto Monastery is one of the most famous monasteries in Tibet and specializes in the study of Tantric meditation, Tantric ritual arts and Buddhist philosophy. The main disciple of the first Dalai Lama, Jetsun Kunga Dhondup, founded Gyuto Monastery in 1474 in eastern Tibet.The Gyuto monks practice the major Tantric texts such as Guhyasamaja, Chakrasamvara and Yamantaka and have passed these lineages on to the younger generation of monks for over 500 years without disruption. As a result of the communist Chinese invasion in 1959 the Monastery was re-established in India. To accommodate the growth of the monastery to over 500 monks it has recently been relocated to Dharamsala near the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
CHAMUNDA DEVI TEMPLE
The famous temple of goddess Chamunda Devi (Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham). At the back of the temple is a cave-like scoop where a stone “Lingam” under a boulder represents Nandikeshwar (Shiva). The temple complex is an enchanting spot with glorious view of Dhauladhar, the Baner Khad and Dadh. A vast running water pool houses the statues of Lord Shiva and Saraswati. A trek of about 16 km up in the Dhauladhar ranges is the ancient temple of Aadi Himani Chamunda.
GOPALPUR ZOO
The Gopalpur Zoo is one of the ultimate family getaways that one can cherish forever. It is easily accessible and it has been the home to several species of birds and animals which never cease to amaze tourists. The surrounding valleys and slopes etched with intermittent alpine forests are no doubt a sight for sore eyes.
History. The zoo was established on the Dharamsala – Palampur road in the village of Gopalpur in the Kangra District. This was actually the result of an initiative taken by the wildlife department of the state government of Himachal Pradesh. Since its inception, the zoo with its sprawling greenery surrounded by snow topped mountains has indeed been refreshment for one’s senses. To add on, the village has also gained spiritual significance with the inauguration of the Buddhist Monastic Institute – Dorzong Buddhist Monastic Institute by the Dalai Lama in September, 2010.
Neugal Khad Saurav Van Bihar
In order to enable the visitors to enjoy the nature & make them aware of the importance of nature & environment, a nature park namely “Saurabh Van Vihar” at Palampur over 13 hactare area has been established. It is located on the right bank of Neugal Khad near Kandi bridge in the lap of Dhauladhar ranges, in village Kwat, 4 km from Palampur town.
Bundla Stream Neugal Cafe
Neugal Cafe is 3km from Palampur Town. Roaring in the rainy season and tinkling all the year around, Neugal Cafe is famous Picnic Spot offers a fine view of the Dhauladhar range & the great view of Neugal Khud. Himachal Tourism café provides food and a fine view from its restaurant.
Palampur Tea Garden
The tea gardens appear on either side of the road well before you enter Palampur, giving you a sense of entering into a dreamland. Since Palampur is called the Tea Capital of northern India, it is famous for its lush tea gardens sprawling over vast acres of land. These splendid gardens are among the chief attractions of the hill-town.
Tea plantation was introduced in and around this area in the 19th century and since then Kangra Tea has become quite renowned.
Baijnath Shiv Temple
Shiva is worshipped here as Vaidyanath or the Lord of Physician. The temple has lent its name to town as well which earlier was known as Kiragrama. The history of the temple is stated on stone slabs. According to it, the temple foundation was laid down by two local merchants in the 9th century. The date of inscription is itself given in two eras – Saptarshi and Saka. The Saka year 1126, which corresponds to 1204 AD, is considered more authentic. Renovation work in the temple was carried out by Raja Sansar Chand in the 19th century.Today, the temple is still very much in use and attracts a number of visitors year round. The unique feature of the temple is its architectural style, which is very different from the rest of the temple in the state. Actually, the architectural style is Orissan which is far away from Himachal.
Bir and Billing
Bir, surrounded by tea gardens and an amphitheater of low hills, is an ideal landing ground for para-gliders. Bir has Buddhist monasteries that are worth visiting. Fine Tibetan handicrafts are also produced here. Billing, up in the hills 14 km from Bir with an arena of 200 km for high altitude and cross country flying, is one of the best aero sports sites in the country.
Sobha Singh Art Gallery
Famous English Playwright, Nora Richards and renowned Painter Sant Sobha Singh was so taken in by the enchanting beauty of this place that they decided to settle down here for the rest of their life. An Art gallery displays the original painting of S. Sobha Singh. There is also a pottery and crafts centre at Andretta.
Mini Singh Pottery
The small village of Andretta, in the Kangra valley, near the abode of the Dalai Lama, offers a fasinating cultural heritage and magnificent surroundings. And an opportunity to study pottery with the renowned Mansimran (Mini) Singh.
Brajeshwari Devi Temple
The Brajeshwari Devi temple, located in the old Kangra Township, is said to have been built over the charred breasts of Sati. This shrine, once renown for its great wealth, has been plundered relentlessly over the ages. The first of the plunderers was Mahmud of Ghazni, who looted it in 1009. A mosque was built on the ruins and a garrison was left behind. 35 years later, the local king regained its possession. The shrine was repaired and a replica of the idol was enshrined. The temple was filled with gold, silver and diamonds only to be ransacked again in 1360 by Firoz Tughlaq. Later Emperor Akbar visited the shrine with his Dewan, Todar Mal and restored it to its former grandeur. The temple was razed to the ground by an earthquake in 1905, but a new one came up the very same year, thanks to the Kangra Restoration Committee.
JAIN TEMPLE KANGRA
The marvelous architect. The temple is constructed to facilitate the Jain pilgrims to have glimpse and visit to temple in nearby Kangra Fort where a 5000 year old icon of Lord Mahaveer is placed in a temple inside the fort. This icon was placed by the daughter of King who adopted Jainism.
Kangra Fort
This was the first seat of Raja Sansar Chand II (1775-1823) .One of the ancient capital of powerful hill state-fort of Nagarkot(3km) stands as a mute witness to the ravages of conquerors from Mahmood of Ghazni to the Emperor Jehangir, and the disastrous earthquake of 1905. The place is now called “Purana Kangra”.2 km from the bus stand is the temple dedicated to the goddess Barjeshwari Devi.
JAWALAMUKHI
The famous temple of goddess Jawalamukhi also called the “Flaming Goddess” or “She of the flaming mouth”.It lies in the valley of Beas and is built over some natural jets of combustible gas believed to be a manifestation of the goddess Devi Bhagwati . There is the Gorakh Dibbi, Chaturbhuj Temple and a host of other smaller shrine at Jawalamukhi town.
Chintpurni Temple
Apart from the holy shrine, the place is also known for its picturesque surroundings. The valley houses excellent views for sight seeing, indoor and out door activities. The temple is also very well connected through road. That is to say, the place can be an ideal option for a religious visit and holiday both.
Baglamukhi Temple
This is one of the siddh peeth of Ma baglamukhi. Ma baglamukhi is worshipped for winning court cases and remove any problem of life. She is the eighth mahavidya.
Masroor Rock Cut Temple
Masrur is 32 km from Kangra on Nagrota Surian link road and is famous for remarkable group of rock cut temples. They form a group of 15 monolithic rock cut temples in the Indo Aryan style and are richly carved. These richly ornamented cave temples are the only rock shrines in the northern part of India.
Pong Dam
Himachal is nature’s paradise, replete with beautiful landscape, river catchments and forest wealth. A hill state of Indian Union- Himachal Pradesh lies in the north westernly direction of the country with Himalayas in the background and Shivalik foothills in the fore front. A part of Hindukish Himalayas, the state abounds in natural herbal wealth and a large population of wild life and varied climatic zones and topography. The hilly and semi hilly areas are capable of sustaining a very large number of animal species,amphibians,reptiles and globally threatened birds.
Manali
Manali Mall
Like other popular hill stations in India, Manali also has a market area known as “The Mall”.
Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass, is a high mountain pass on the eastern Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas around 51 km from Manali. It connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys of Himachal Pradesh
Solang Valley
It is located at very short distance from Arjuna Gufa. It is offers panoramic views of snow clad mountains. It is noted for good slopes for skiing.
The Club House
It is a popular picnic spot in Manali,
Manu Temple
3 kms. from the main bazar in old Manali lies the temple of MANU RISHI. It is believed that this is the only temple of Manu in India, who was the creator of human race on the earth.
Hadimba Devi Temple
It is a beautiful temple attraction in Manali. It is dedicated to Hadimba (the wife of Mahabharata Legend – Bhim).
Vashisht Springs
The Vashisht hot springs are across the Beas River, about 3.2 Km away from Manali bus stand,Vashisht, renowned for its temples and sulphur hot springs, endowed with great healing powers.
Naggar
It was the capital of Kullu Rajas in 1460. Distance from Manali 22 km
Arjun Gufa
Arjun Gufa is one of the major attractions for tourists. It is Located 5 km away from Manali town towards Naggar. Pandav Arjun mediated here.
Manali Tibetan Monasteries
Manali is also known for some of famous Buddhist monasteries. Thekchoking Gompa and Nyingamapa Gompa.
Shimla
The Ridge
This large open space in the heart of town presents excellent views of the mountain ranges. Shimla’s landmarks , located in the heart of Shimla.
Christ Church-Shimla
It is one of the major landmarks in Shimla.
Gaiety Theatre
it was originally part of a huge town hall complex in the neo-Gothic style, spanning the Mall and the Ridge. This was built to reflect what Pamela Kanwar calls “the social milieu of the ‘upper five hundred.’” Kanwar explains that it
Jakhoo Temple
The At the top of the Jakhoo Hill, there is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. hill is full of paths and narrow roads which are enjoyable walks.
Tara Devi Temple
It is located at Tara Parvat (Tara Hill). It is about 15 km away from the main town of Shimla
Sankat Mochan Temple
The 21st of june 1966, the temple was sanctified and thus was fulfilled Baba Neeb Karori Ji Maharaj’s desire of having a temple built over here that was dedicated to Lord Hanuman
Kufri
It is also began to be recognized as an important place to visit near Shimla.
Chail
Chail, Built in 1891, the Maharaja’s palace is set in approximately 75 acres of land,
Tattapani
Tattapani is famous for hot spring water coming out by the side of Sutlej River. These hot waters came out from different places on the river bed at Tattapani. Locals and tourist enjoy this hot water bath which is reach in Sulphur and belived to have high medical value and good for skin.
Naldehra Golf Club
Distance of 22 km from Shimla, Itis a heaven for tourists. It boasts of the oldest 9 hole golf course in the country. The well groomed Golf Course is a lovely verdant, perhaps one of the finest and sporty in India
Summer Hill
Summer Hill is a small town on the outskirts of Shimla, the state capital of Himachal Pradesh at a height of 2,123 meters. It is on a hill, 5 km west to the Shimla
Toy Train
The Kalka–Shimla Railway is a narrow gauge railway in North-West travelling along a mostly mountainous route. It is known for dramatic views of the hills, Tunels and surrounding villages.