TOP 10 PLACES OF HIMACHAL PRADESH
1. Spiti Valley
One of the largest monasteries in Spiti Valley, located at a height of 4,166 m above sea level, the charming Ki Monastery is an interesting addition to any spiritual traveller's bucket list. This serene Buddhist site houses many beautiful murals, paintings and stucco images, which are stunning examples of 14th century monastic architecture and leave visitors in awe of their splendour. Alongside, there are unusual wind instruments that are used as part of the orchestra whenever the chham (masked and costume dance) dance is performed. One can also see a beautiful collection of weapons, which may have come in use whenever the monastery was attacked by marauders.
The Kalchakra ceremony was performed here by His Holiness the Dalai Lama in August 2000. This prayer is organised on a grand scale with an aim to awaken the Buddha nature of each individual, using a combination of prayer, teaching, blessing, devotion, mantra, yoga and meditation. It is essentially a search for peace. Many believe that even if one is simply present at this initiation ceremony that lasts for a few days, one can be free of suffering and gain enlightenment. There are five main subjects in focus – cosmology, psycho-physiology, initiation, sadhana (study) and attaining Buddhahood.
2. Manali
The magnetic town of Manali beckons to the soul of adventurers, nature lovers as well as solace-seekers. Nestled in the Himalayas, in the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is a charming hill station. A part of the northern end of the Kullu Valley, it is situated by the Beas river at a height of 1,926 m above sea level. Floral meadows, gurgling streams, snow-capped mountains, lofty mountain passes, temples and Buddhist monasteries give this tiny town the allure of a fairy-tale setting.
3. Shimla
Enveloped in mist, nestled within dense forests and silhouetted against snowy peaks of the mighty Himalayas, Shimla is a paradise in the hills. From its British-era lodges that take you back to the old-world to the bustling 12-km-long Ridge, the heartbeat of the city, Shimla, in Himachal Pradesh, is among the most popular hill stations in India. Ringed by seven lofty hills, Shimla is an ideal summer holiday destination and equally popular in winter, when a blanket of snow covers it. An ideal getaway to experience thrilling and adrenaline-pumping sports like skiing, trekking, paragliding and ice skating,
Shimla has one of the oldest golf courses in the country. Almost perfectly preserving its legacy, as the erstwhile summer capital of the British in India, Shimla is dotted with sprawling colonial bungalows and is also renowned as the official retreat of the President of India.
It is said that attracted by the pleasant weather of the city, many Europeans flocked to this city, building houses for themselves in order to escape the summer heat of the plains. They brought with them their cuisine and their culture of parties, balls, games of golf and elite clubs. Later, the hill station attracted filmmakers, who were charmed by its gorgeous landscapes.
4. Dharamshala
A pristine green expanse ringed by the mist-shrouded Himalayas and a dense cover of oak, deodar, pine and conifers, Dharamsala (Dharamshala), in Himachal Pradesh, is a secluded natural retreat. While its pristine beauty leaves you in awe, its rugged terrain is ideal for adventure sports like trekking, paragliding or mountain climbing. A mesmeric journey in the pretty toy train that meanders through picturesque scenery is an added attraction.
Dharamsala is renowned as the home of the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan Buddhist leader, and is a popular centre of Buddhism. Dotted with colourful monasteries, it offers tourists a great opportunity to meditate and soak in the serenity and tranquillity of the surroundings. A major attraction is one of the most beautiful cricket stadiums in the world that has hosted a number of international and Indian Premier League (IPL) matches.
Tourists can take nature walks through verdant landscapes or enjoy a picnic spread along the banks of the lakes here. Quaint churches nestled in groves and ancient temples greet you at most turns. The heart of Dharamsala beats in its bustling and vibrant markets that are a riot of colour and activity.
From exquisite multi-hued Tibetan Buddhist thangka paintings and miniature Buddha statues to singing bowls and Tibetan handicrafts, the bazaars have a fine selection on display. As you shop to your heart's content, don't forget to sample authentic Tibetan delicacies like thukpa (a soupy noodle dish), momos, golden fried baby corn, mittha (local sweet prepared with rice and raisins) etc.
To get an overview of the uniquely rich culture of the city, which is often fondly called the Little Tibet, tourists can set on a museum trail or visit the famous Norbulingka Institute that is said to be the gatekeeper of the art and culture of Tibetan Buddhism. You can also observe local artisans practicing the art forms of thangka painting and applique, statue-making and decorative wood carving, wood painting, weaving and tailoring.
Dharamsala was the summer vacation retreat for Britishers and grew as a Tibetan settlement in 1959, when the Dalai Lama was allowed by the then Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru, to stay in McLeodganj, in Upper Dharamsala.
5. Dalhousie
Perched atop a rocky ridge, with snow-clad Dhauladhar mountains and rolling emerald valleys adding to its natural beauty, Dalhousie, in Himachal Pradesh, is a quaint hill town perfect for a relaxing holiday. Lined with tall pine and deodar trees and dotted with pristine lakes and waterfalls, Dalhousie mesmerises you with its natural bounty. No wonder this secluded town was a favourite summer retreat of the British before Independence! The town preserves many remnants from its past and various quaint churches are a testimony to the colonial era. Dalhousie was named after the then governor general of British India, Lord Dalhousie, in 1854. Sprawling colonial-era buildings that are liberally scattered throughout the town, are a testament to Dalhousie's Victorian charm. Its beauty is further complemented by River Ravi flowing close by. This hill station also offers amazing views of the snow-capped Pir Panjal mountain range. Pines, oaks, rhododendrons and a number of other types of trees cover the mountain slopes. An ideal place to unwind, the hill station is a treasure of ancient temples, art, handicrafts and a rich cultural heritage that has been preserved since the 6th century. As you soak in the natural and architectural beauty, don't forget to sample the delicacies the town has to offer. From chha ghosht to patande, there's a lot on offer.
6. Mcleodganj
A serene hill town near Dharamsala, McLeodganj is bestowed with unparalleled natural beauty in the form of verdant landscapes and snow-capped mountains. This hill station, perched at a height of 1,770 m above sea level, is renowned as the home of the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan spiritual leader. Besides visiting the many monasteries located here and exploring their culture, tourists can enjoy trekking opportunities. Because of its rich Buddhist heritage, McLeodganj is also called Little Lhasa (traditional capital of Tibet). Tourists can also shop for unique Tibetan handicrafts or sample the rich flavours of the region. McLeodganj has been named after Donald Friell McLeod, the then lieutenant governor of Punjab. Tourists can also visit the 8th-century Masroor Temple, a rock-cut structure built in the Nagara style of architecture.
7. Khajjiar
Situated at an altitude of 6,500 ft, Khajjiar is gifted with scenic beauty that is heightened by two serene lakes, namely the Khajjiar Lake and the Chamera Lake. The scenic grassland is located on the outskirts of Dalhousie and is widely known as the 'mini-Switzerland' of India. The entire region is covered with a thick growth of a wildflower known as vacha that gives it an almost sponge-like quality. Khajjiar is widely known for adventure tourism and is a centre for activities like zorbing, paragliding and horse riding. The area is also a starting point for treks to Chamba, Dalhousie and Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. These take scenic routes through the dense forests that surround Khajjiar. Khajjiar takes its name from Khajji Nag Temple, which is said to be the oldest in the state. Built around 12th century AD and located near the lake, it is believed to be one of the most revered shrines in Himachal Pradesh.
8. Kasauli
Surrounded by the snow-capped Shivalik Hills, the ideal, fairy-tale town of Kasauli, in Himachal Pradesh, has an old-world charm, dating back to the times when it was established as an Army cantonment in 1842. Lined with a number of sprawling colonial bungalows, quaint cottages tucked amidst oak and pine trees, cobbled pathways, serene churches and small souvenir shops, Kasauli is where colonial tales come to life. Tourists can experience this rich legacy while staying in the Raj-era bungalows that have now been converted either into homestays or hotels. With its lush green mountains home to a wide variety of species of birds and animals, Kasauli has a rich reservoir of flora and fauna.
Folklore says Kasauli has derived its name from a flower found in the hills called kasool. A two-hour drive from the city of Chandigarh, Kasauli is home to several ancient temples. Legend has it that Kasauli is the place where Lord Hanuman's foot touched land on his way back to Sri Lanka from the Himalayas, while carrying sanjiwani buti (a medicinal herb) to bring Lord Lakshmana back to life in the epic, Ramayana.
Kasauli is also popular as the birthplace of famous Indian author of British origin, Ruskin Bond. The town is chilly during winters with temperatures falling to 2 degree, while summers are pleasant.
9. Kasol
The beautiful destination is blessed with the scenic beauty of nature. The lush landscapes and clear blue skies are the unspoiled charms of this destination. The cafes and restaurants nearby offer delicious delicacies from different cultures. The pretty hamlet is an ideal place for trekking and adventure enthusiasts who seek rest and recreation in the hills. Situated on the banks of River Parvati, Kasol makes a good holiday destination. It is 42 km from Kullu, an open space which slopes down to the broad expanse of clear white sand at the Parvati River. The place is well known for trout fishing.
10. Bir Billing
Bir Billing is the paragliding capital of the world and invites adventure seekers from across the globe. There is also a sizeable community of Tibetan refugees there, along with several Tibetan monasteries that one can visit.
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