Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh is a "mountain state" and a delight for visitors, particularly during the summer season when people flock to this tiny hill station to escape the scorching heat of the plains. It came into being in its present form with the partition of the Punjab into Punjab and Haryana in 1966. The winding roads and high passes link its high mountains and valleys are the high points of a visit to this state. While the picturesque valleys of Kullu and Kangra are a blend of colours, in marked contrast the stark and barren terrain of Lahaul and Spiti have a stunning moonscape like beauty.

The earliest known inhabitants of the region were tribals called Dasas. Later, Aryans came and they assimilated in the tribes. In the later centuries, the hill chieftains accepted suzerainty of the Mauryan Empire, the Kaushans, the Guptas and the Kanauj rulers. During the Mughal period, the Rajas of the hill states made some mutually agreed arrangements, which governed their relations. In the 19th century, Maharaja Ranjit Singh annexed/subjugated many of the states. When the British came, they defeated Gorkhas and entered into treaties with some Rajas and annexed the kingdoms of others. The situation more or less remained unchanged till 1947. After Independence, 30 princely states of the area were united and Himachal Pradesh was formed on 15th April, 1948. With the recognition of Punjab on 1st November 1966, certain areas belonging to it were also included in Himachal Pradesh. On 25th January 1971, Himachal Pradesh was made a full-fledged State.

Hiamachal Pradesh is developing Eco Tourism and Organic Farming destinations, where quite a few villages are turning as eco tourism destinations, and farms being converted to Organic Farming.

The State is bordered by Jammu & Kashmir on North, Punjab on West and South-West, Haryana on South, Uttar Pradesh on South-East and China on the East.

For further information log on to http://www.hptdc.nic.in/

Chamba

Chamba, the land of antiquity, art and scenic beauty, is a wonder in itself for every visitor. Situated at the height of 996 m. above sea level on the south bank of the Ravi River, the ancient Pahari capital was founded in 920 A.D. by Raja Sahil Varman, who named it after his favourite daughter Champavati. Chamba valley is noted for the magnificence of it's scenery-touching the fringe of the Shivaliks and having three well-defined snowy ranges, the Dauladhar, constituting the outer Himalayas, the Pir Panjal or the mid Himalayas, and the Zanskar range or the inner Himalayas.
The town of Chamba, the district headquarter of Chamba district is situated in the western Himalayas between north latitudes 32°10' and 33°13' and east longitudes 75°45' and 77°33'. Raja Sahil Varman founded this town when he conquered the lower Rani valley from the petty chiefs called Ranas and Thakurs in the beginning of 10th Century. In the bansauli or genealogical rolls of the Chamba Rajas a reference occurs of place which was adorned with highly fragrant Champaka trees and guarded by Goddess Champavati or more popularly known as Chameshni. The temple was built by Sahil Varman in the honour of his daughter Champavati who is worshipped as a goddess in Chamba. Champavati temple became the family temple of the ruling family.

General Information
Area: 2.4 sq. km
Altitude: 926 meters
Climate: (deg C) Summer Max. 39 Deg C Min. 8 Deg C
Winter Max. 10 Deg C Min. 1.1 Deg C
The climate of Chamba in general is tempreate with well defined seasons. However, there may be variations because of micro-climatic systems depending upon altitude and mountain aspect. The winters last from December to February. March and April generally remain cool and dry but snowfall does occur at higher elevations during these months. The temperature begins to rise rapidly from the middle of April till last week of June or first week of July when monsoon breaks-in. Monsoon continues till the end of August or mid September. During the monsoon, the weather remains misty, humid and cloudy. October and November are comparatively dry but cold. The maximum temperature in Chamba town in summers is 38°C and the minimum in winter is 0°C.
Clothing: Summer - Light woollens, winter - Heavy woollens
Best Season: April to Mid July and Mid September to December
The best season to visit Chamba is between April and October. Adventure tourists may like to undertake winter trekking from November to March when the higher reaches of the district are snow clad and access to most of the villages is on foot.
Languages spoken: Pahari (Local Dialect), Hindi, English.

Transport And Communication
Air: Nearest airport is Amritsar - 200 km.
Rail: Pathankot - 90 km is connected to major cities in India.
Road: Chandigarh - 239 km, Delhi - 514 km, Dalhousie - 143 km, Jammu -197 km, Kangra - 18 km, Kullu - 214 km, Manali - 253 km, Palampur - 35 km, Shimla - 322 km.

Bus and taxi service is available from Chamba to Pathankot, Delhi, Dharamsala, Shimla, Chandigarh, Jammu and most of the Punjab cities along the national highway.

Fairs & Festivals
Minjar Mela: Minjar is the most popular fair of Chamba, which is attended by a large number of people from every nook and corner of the district. This mela is held on the second Sunday of the Shravana month. The fair is announced by distribution of Minjar which is a silk tassel worn on some parts of the dress by men and women alike. This tassel symbolizes the shoots of paddy and maize, which make their appearance around this time of the year. The week long fair begins when the Minjar flag is hoisted in historical Chowgan. The town of Chamba wears a colourful look with every person turning out in best attire. Most part of the Chowgan is converted into markets and people do brisk business during this week. Sports and cultural programmers are organized. On the third Sunday the gaiety, colourfulness and enthusiasm reaches its crescendo when the colourful Minjar procession of the deities accompanied by dancing troupes, traditionally attired locals, traditional drum beaters along with Police and Home Guards band, begins its march from Akhand Chandi Palace for the venue near the Police Lines Nalhora. A great concourse of people is already assembled there. Earlier the Raja and now the chief guest throws a coconut, a rupee, a seasonal fruit and a Minjar tied in a red piece of cloth - Lohan - as offering to the river. All the people throwing their Minjars into the river follow this. The local artists sing traditional Kumjari-Malhar. Betel leaves and ittra are offered to everyone among the invitees as a gesture of respect and festivity. Until 1943, a live buffalo used to be pushed into the river to propitiate it. It if was carried away and drowned, the event was regarded as propitious, the sacrifice having been accepted. If it crossed the river and reached the other bank, that also was auspicious, as it was believed that all the sins of the town were transferred to the other side of the river.
Minjar fair has been declared as one of the state fairs of Himachal Pradesh. Wide coverage is given on TV and print media. Undoubtedly Chamba is at its very best during this fair that generally falls in the month of July/ August.
Chamba's annual Suhi Mata Festival, which lasts for four days in early April, commemorates Rani Champavati, the wife of the 10th century Raja Sahil Verma. Only women and children participate in the festival, dancing on the Chowgan before processing with an image of Champavati and banners of the Rajput solar emblem to the Suhi Mata temple.

Dalhousie

Dalhousie is named after the British Governor - General of the 19th century Lord Dalhousie. The town's height varies between 1525m and 2378m and is surrounded by varied vegetation. Dalhousie has charming colonial architecture, including some beautiful churches. The spectacular snow-covered Dhauladhar Mountains are also visible from this enchanting town.

GENERAL INFORMATION
Area: 13 sq. km
Altitude: 2036 meters
Climate: (deg C) Summer Max. 23 Deg C Min. 15.5 Deg C
Winter Max. 10 Deg C Min. 1 Deg C Clothing: Summer - Light woollens, winter - Heavy woollens
Best Season: April to November
Languages spoken: Pahari (Local Dialect), Hindi, English

TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION
Air: Nearest airport is Amritsar- 118 km & Jammu- 188 km.
Rail: Nearest railhead is Pathankot- 80 km.
Road: Amritsar- 188 km, Jalandhar- 192 km, Pathankot- 80 km, Chamba- 56 km, Manali- 402 km, Delhi- 563 km, Chandigarh- 352 km, Dharamshala- 143 km, Khajjiar- 27 km, Jammu-188 km.

Bus and taxi service is available from Chamba to Pathankot, Delhi, Dharamsala, Shimla, Chandigarh, Jammu and most of the Punjab cities along the national highway.

Other Hotels
Orag's Hotel, Mall Road, Dalhousie Club, Near Bus Stand; Emporium Apartments Hotel, Near GPO; Fair View Hotel, Malviya Road, Glory Hotel,Near Bus Stand; Gohar Hotel, King Hotel, Near GPO, Shiwali Hotel, Subhash Chowk, Spring Hotel,Raj Road.

Dharamshala

Dharamshala is the district HQ of Kangra district. This is a hill station lying on the spur of the Dhauladhar range about 18 kms north east of Kangra town. Hill station is wooded with oak and conifer trees and snow-capped mountains enfold three sides of the town while the valley stretches in front. The snow line is perhaps more easily accessible at Dharamshala than at any other hill resort and it is possible to trek to snow point after an early morning's start.
In 1905, tragedy struck Dharamshala when an earthquake levelled it completely. After its reconstruction, Dharamshala flourished as a quiet health resort. It is divided into two distinct parts. Lower Dharamshala has civil offices and business establishments with courts. Kotwali Bazar and Upper Dharamshala compose of places with names, which bear witness to its history like McLeod Ganj and Forsythe Ganj. Since 1960, when it became a temporary hqr of His Holiness The Dalai Lama, Dharamshala has risen to international fame as "The Little Lhasa in India".

General Information
Area: 13 sq. km
Altitude: 1250 meters to 1600 meters
Climate: (deg C) Summer Max. 33 Deg C Min. 22 Deg C
Winter Max. 15 Deg C Min. 0 Deg C Clothing: Summer - Light woollens
Winter - Heavy woollens
Best Season: April to June and September to November
Languages spoken: Hindi, Punjabi, English and Pahari are understood & spoken by the people engaged in tourism trade
Shopping Centres: Kotwali Bazar, a general shopping area, and McLeod Ganj for Tibetan handicrafts

Transport And Communication
Air: Nearest airport is Amritsar at 200 km.
Rail: Pathankot - 90 km is connected to major cities in India.
Road: Chandigarh- 239 km, Delhi- 514 km, Dalhousie- 55 km, Jammu-197 km, Kangra- 18 km, Kullu- 214 km, Manali -253 km, Palampur- 35 km, Shimla- 322 km

Kullu Valley

Kullu was once known as Kulanthpitha, which means the end of the habitable world. Beyond rose the forbidding heights of the Greater Himalayas, and by the banks of the shining river Beas, lay the fabled 'Silver Valley'. The 'Silver Valley' has nature's treasures that lie carelessly scattered as flowers on the high meadows.

The Valley of Gods, as the Kullu Valley has come to be known, is perhaps the most delightful region in the Western Himalayas. Situated on the banks of the river Beas, Kullu town, the headquarters of the district, serves as a nerve centre of the valley and is the starting place for a number of treks.

General Information
Area: 6.68 sq. km
Altitude: 1219 meters
Climate: (deg C) Summer Max. 30.8 Deg C Min. 18.8 Deg C
Winter Max. 16.4 Deg C Min. 5.2 Deg C Rainfall: 102 cm
Clothing: Summer - Light woollens, winter - Heavy woollens
Best Season: Mid-March to Mid-November.
Languages spoken: Pahari (Local Dialect), Hindi, English.

TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION
Air: Nearest airport is Bhuntar -50 km.
Rail: Nearest railhead is Chandigarh -272 km.
Road: Ambala -606 km, Chandigarh -556 km, Delhi -798 km, Pathankot -278 km, Shimla -240 km, Manali -40 km, Palampur -164 km, Rohtang Pass -91 km, Dharamshala -213 km, Dalhousie -334 km, Jogindarnagar -166 km.

Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh is a "mountain state" and a delight for visitors, particularly during the summer season when people flock to this tiny hill station to escape the scorching heat of the plains. It came into being in its present form with the partition of the Punjab into Punjab and Haryana in 1966. The winding roads and high passes link its high mountains and valleys are the high points of a visit to this state. While the picturesque valleys of Kullu and Kangra are a blend of colours, in marked contrast the stark and barren terrain of Lahaul and Spiti have a stunning moonscape like beauty.

The earliest known inhabitants of the region were tribals called Dasas. Later, Aryans came and they assimilated in the tribes. In the later centuries, the hill chieftains accepted suzerainty of the Mauryan Empire, the Kaushans, the Guptas and the Kanauj rulers. During the Mughal period, the Rajas of the hill states made some mutually agreed arrangements, which governed their relations. In the 19th century, Maharaja Ranjit Singh annexed/subjugated many of the states. When the British came, they defeated Gorkhas and entered into treaties with some Rajas and annexed the kingdoms of others. The situation more or less remained unchanged till 1947. After Independence, 30 princely states of the area were united and Himachal Pradesh was formed on 15th April, 1948. With the recognition of Punjab on 1st November 1966, certain areas belonging to it were also included in Himachal Pradesh. On 25th January 1971, Himachal Pradesh was made a full-fledged State.

Hiamachal Pradesh is developing Eco Tourism and Organic Farming destinations, where quite a few villages are turning as eco tourism destinations, and farms being converted to Organic Farming.

The State is bordered by Jammu & Kashmir on North, Punjab on West and South-West, Haryana on South, Uttar Pradesh on South-East and China on the East.

For further information log on to http://www.hptdc.nic.in/

Kinnaur

Kinnaur, the land of the mythological Kinnaras is a deeply laced-in terrain along the Sutlej River with many side valleys, by which the district is thoroughly divided. Due to its geographical setting, Kinnaur has two distinct climatic zones - the wet and the arid. Only the area south of the Great Himalaya (Sutlej and Baspa valleys) receives monsoon rains. In the upper reaches of the district, the monsoon showers progressively decrease. Recong Peo, the district headquarters may be considered as a place where the Great Himalayan range obstructs the march of the monsoon. From this point on the vegetation rapidly becomes sparser ultimately to remain only along the Sutlej River. The harsh winter with heavy snowstorms lasts from October to May leaving only June to September for the short summer and vegetation to grow.
A rare style of wood architecture finds its climax in the temple of Sarahan, located at the border between the Shimla hills and Lower Kinnaur.
The southern area of Kinnaur may be regarded as a transition zone between Hinduism of the Indian plains, a unique animism of local kind - especially snake worship - and Buddhism, prevalent in the hills. At the village of Pooh, one enters the cultural realm of Tibet.
Although the climatic conditions may be considered as extremely hard the people of Kinnaur are well acclimatised to their surroundings bearing strong yet fine natural features and characteristics typical for all mountain folks. In the regions below Kalpa their faces reveal Persian influences which may be derived from the armies of Alexander the Great having reached as far as here and having settled and mixed with the locals. In the northern areas the Tibetan features dominate. Therefore also the habits vary south and north of this "monsoon-border", both being equally unique, not only in architecture but also in languages of their own and a rich heritage of folk and fairy tales, songs, dances, festivities, fairs, costumes and ornaments.

General Information
Climate: This region is called as cold desert and not having monsoon. In winter the temperature can drop below freezing point when heavy woollens are required, in summer the weather remains pleasant when light woollens are advised.

Access
Nearest Airports are at Kullu (Bhunter) 250 km and Shimla 445 km. Kaza can be approached by road from Shimla (May to October) and from Manali 200 km via Kunzum Pass (June to October).

Accommodation
The Tourist Lodge Kaza is an ideal base to make sorties to discover the beautiful valley of Spiti.
Address. Tourist Lodge, Kaza-172114, spiti Sub Division, H.P. Tel. : (01906) 222566.
Accommodatian: 4 DBRs and Tented Colony with 5 tents.
Facilities Spacious rooms having attached bath with running hot and cold water. Parking within premises. Restaurant.

Places of Interest
Recong Peo : (2670m) located 240 kms from Shimla, 7 kms from Powari and 13 kms from Kalpa. Recong Peo is the Headquarter of the district Kinnaur. Provides fine view of the Kinner Kailash.
Kothi : Just 3 km from Recong Peo Kothi has an ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Chanadika Devi. Set against a backdrop of mountains of deodar the temple has an unusual ard1itectural style and fine sculpture. An exquisite gold image of the goddess is enshrined in the sanctrum.
Sangla Valley: If a landscape had the powers of casting spells, then the Sangla Valley would be a magician-extraordinary. Once seen, it is a place that can never be forgotten. Even the rushing waters of the Baspa River, that flows through its 95 km length, seem to absorb some of the magic and slow down to savour its Snow-framed beauty. 2 km from Sangla is the fort of Kamru (3000m) its tower like architecture, resembles that of the Bhimakali complex and this was the original seat of the rulers of Bushehar.
Chitkul (3450) is the last village of the Valley and beyond lies Tibet. The area is well known for its saffron farms and the Baspa river is an excellent place for angling for trout. The Hotel shrikhand acts as the perfect base to visit the enchanting valley.
Rlba (2745m) ; Just 18km from Powari on NH-22 is Riba, famous for its vineyards and local wine " Angoori" that is made from the grapes.
Jangi (2790m) : 26 km from Powari, the inner border is located here beyond which foreigners require permit to travel upto Tabo. From this point the famous Kinner Kailash Parikarama Trek starts touching Morang. Thangi and Kunocharang villages and entering Chitkul village in sangla Valley. From here one can drive to Leh in the neighbouring state of Jammu and Kashmir. This road is being increasingly used by tourists to Leh for the past 5-6 years. If Kinnaur is "god's gift," then Spiti is the place "where the gods live." The gompa at Tabo is called the "Ajanta of the Himalayas" as it has exquisite frescoes and stucco statues. The monastic complex here has nine temples, 23 chortens, monks' and nuns' chambers. Tabo's sanctity, in transHimalayan Buddhism, is next only to Tibet's Tholing gompa. Further above is Kaza, the base to visit the Hikim, Komik and Langja monasteries. En route from Tabo is Dhankar gompa, a masterpiece of local architecture as also castle of the ruler of Spiti. Still further is an important monastery at Ki and Kibber (4,205 metres above sea level) is the region's highest permanently inhabited village connected by a motorable road.
Puh (2837m) : Lush green fields orchards of apricot vineyards and almond trees, are to be seen on the route of Puh. Just 58 km from Powari along the NH-22, Puh has rest house and hotel facilities.
Nako (3662m) :117 km from Kalpa. In Hangrang valley is the largest village above sea level. It is also famous for Nako Lake which has boating facilities in summer and during winter its frozen surface is used for ice skating. Buddhist monastery is located here.
KAZA: (3600m) Once was the capital of Nono the chief of spiti, Kaza situated at an altitude of 3600m above sea level on the left bank of Spiti, presently is the Head quarter of spiti Sub Division. This beautiful place has buddhist monastery and Hindu Temple.

Lahaul & Spiti Valley

Places of interest

Gondla (3160 m): It is 18 kms from Keylong on the right bank of Chandra River. The location of royal houses of the village is interesting. In the month of July a fair is held when Lamas dance & enjoy. The Gompa of this village has historical significance and the fair attracts a large number of visitors. The residence of the Thakur of Gondla is an eight-storey building of its own kind in the entire Lahaul valley. It is worth a visit. This is called Gondla castle or fort and was built in 1700 A.D.
Tandi: Tandi is 8 kms short of Keylong and is situated at the confluence of Chandra & Bhaga rivers. A legend says that there were two lovers, Chandra being the daughter of the Moon and Bhaga the son of the Sun god. To perform there eternal marriage, they decided to climb to the Baralacha La & from there they ran in opposite directions. Chandra being active and smart easily found her way & reached Tandi after covering the distance of 115 kms. Soon Bhaga was found coming with great struggle through the narrow gorges to Tandi where consequently both met and the celestial marriage was performed. Bhaga covered about 60 kms. distance which was very difficult.
Sissu (3120 m): It is on Keylong-Koksar road over 30 kms. from Keylong. There is a big waterfall here. This is the seat of God Geypan, who is worshipped in the entire valley.
Koksar (3140 m): It is 21 kms. beyond Rohtang pass in Lahaul and is the coldest place in Lahaul.
Jispa: It is 20 kms from Keylong on the bank of Bhaga river having a rest house and mountaineer hut. There is a big camping ground. Sufficient trout fish is available in the river.
Gemur: It is 18 kms from Keylong in Bhaga valley where devil dance is held during July in the Local Gompa. The place is situated on Manali-Leh highway.
Darcha (3360 m): It is 24 kms from Keylong on Leh road where a camping ground is available. From Darcha trekkers start their trek to Padem, via Shingola as well as Baralacha/Phirtsela. There is a police check-post for assistance. Beyond this point there are hardly any trees. Yotche and Zanskar Nallahs meet Bhaga River here from different directions.
Baralacha LA (4883 m): It is about 73 kms. from Keylong on Manali Leh road. The name means pass with cross roads on summit (roads from Ladakh, Spiti and Lahaul join at the top). There is no road yet from Spiti. Only a path exists. This is also the point of origin of Chandra, Bhaga and, Yunam rivers. They flow to three different directions through the Chandra, Bhaga and Lingti valleys.
Sarchu: It is the last border point between Himachal and Ladakh, where HPTDC puts up a tented colony for the convenience of the tourists during summer season. It is situated at a distance of 116 kms. from Keylong.
Shansha: This is on the right bank of river Chandra-Bhaga (Chenab) at a distance of 27 kms from Keylong on Udaipur road. The Geypan, a powerful deity of Lahaul is believed to be born here. A shrine dedicated to the deity has also been built in this village.
Trilokinath Temple: Trilokinath means the Shiva. A Temple is situated in the village, which is about 4 kms. short of Udaipur on the left bank of Chenab river. Devotees from far off places come to pay their respects at this unique temple. This Shiva temple was given a look of Budhist shrine by Guru Padmasambhava by installing the 6-armed image of Avalokiteshvar. It is now sacred both to Hindus and Buddhists alike and attracts many pilgrims from both these communities. In August, a big festival named Pauri is held for three days when people including the sadhus and followers of various religious sects gather to receive the blessings of Lord Trilokinath.
Udaipur (2743 m): In olden times this village was known as Markul and so the name of local goddess is Markula Devi. The temple here is unique and famous for its wooden carving on its roof and ceiling. Raja Udai Singh of Chamba changed its name. This place is situated near the confluence of Chenab and Mayar Nallah. This place is therefore a starting point for Mayar valley and further on to Zanskar and other peaks. This is a green area rather the whole Chenab valley is greener than the Lahaul valley. It has a rest house and some hotels and is a good resting place. Some years back the road was only up to this point and from here the trekking expeditions to different areas used to start. Now the road is under construction beyond this place and the bus is goes upto Tindi. This road has now been connected up to Killar, which is the meeting point of another roads; one from Kishtwar (J&K) and from Chamba over the Sach pass.
Kaza (3800 m): 224 kms. from Manali, 197 kms from Keylong and 425 kms from Shimla. Kaza is a Sub Divisional Hqtr. of Spiti Valley. It is situated at the foot of the step ridges on the left bank of Spiti river. There are PWD rest houses and a private hotel for the staying. Once it was the hqtr. of Nono, the chief of Spiti. It has all modern facilities and is connected by road with Manali & Shimla except in the winter months.
Kibber (4205 m): It is locally known as Khyipur, one of the highest villages in the world at an altitude of 4205 m above sea level in a narrow valley surrounded by mountains from all sides. Rest Houses available for the visitors. Gette village, at a short distance away from Kaza, is the highest in the world with a height of 4270 m.
Kunzum Pass (4590 m): As Rohtang pass is a gateway to Lahaul so Kunzum pass is the gateway to Spiti from Kulu & Lahaul. After crossing Rohtang pass and driving 20kms, one has to turn right from Gramphoo. While going to this pass, the panoramic view of Bara-Sigri glacier (second longest glacier in the world) is enthrilling and inspiring. There is a temple at the top of this pass dedicated to goddess Durga. After seeing this pass one can drive to Batal for a night stay in the Rest House. The view from the top is breathtaking. On one side is the Spiti valley and to the other are numerous C.B.(Chandra-Bhaga ) range peaks. On way back from Gramphoo one can either return to Manali (71kms.) or can go to Leh via Keylong , Darcha, Baralacha la, Sarchu, Tanglang la by road. From Tandi (8kms. short of Keylong) one can also drive to Pangi valley along the Chenab river to Udaipur, Trilokinath and Tindi and thereafter by trekking to Killar. From Killar to Chamba/Dalhousie/Delhi or to Kishtwar- Jammu-Delhi.
Losar (4080 m): It is situated near the confluence of Losar and Peeno streams. this village is worth a visit being the first big village and because of its Location. Yak and horse riding are other charms to add to its beauty and unique experience.

Shimla

Overview
In the days before independence, Shimla was the most important British hill station, and was the summer capital of British India. The British in 1819 A.D first discovered Shimla, but it was not until 1822 A.D that the first permanent house was erected and not until many years later that Shimla became the summer capital. The name Shimla is derived from the Himalayan Goddess Shamla a synonym of Kali.

General Information
Area: 18 sq. km
Altitude: 2213 meters
Climate: (deg C) Summer Max. 27 Deg C Min. 16.5 Deg C
Winter Max. 16.5 Deg C Min. 5.2 Deg C Clothing: Summer - Light woollens, winter - Heavy woollens
Best Season: April to Mid-July, Mid-September to Mid-November
Languages spoken: Pahari (Local Dialect), Hindi, English

TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION
Air: Nearest airport is Kullu- 23 km
Rail: Nearest railhead is Kalka- 90 km.
Road: Chandigarh- 117 km, Kullu- 220 km, Manali- 260 km, Delhi- 343 km, Pathankot- 380 km, Ambala- 151 km, Chail- 43 km, Dehradun- 240 km etc.

Places of interest
The Mall - All visitors to Shimla inevitably walk down the Mall, the main promenade that runs along the top of the ridge - a busy shopping area with old colonial buildings, souvenir shops and restaurants. At the top end of the Mall is Scandal Point, a large open square with a view of the town - a favourite rendezvous for visitors and the local people. Overlooking it is the elegant Christ Church with its fine stained glass windows. The labyrinth of Shimla's bazaars spill over the edge of the Mall.
Jakhoo Hill - The steep climb to Jakhoo Hill, Shimla's highest point, is rewarding for superb views of the town and its surroundings. At the top is an old Hanuman temple. (2 Km / 1.2 mile)
Glen - A pretty picnic spot beyond Annandale is located in the thickly wooded Glen, beside a sparkling stream. (4 Km / 2.4 mile)
Summer Hill - The quiet and lovely suburb of Summer Hill has secluded, shady walks and charming views. It was here that Gandhiji stayed on his visits to Shimla, in the elegant Gergorian mansion that belonged to Rajkumari Amrit Kaur. Summer Hill is located on the Shimla - Kalka railway line. (5 Km / 3 mile)
Chadwick Falls - Just beyond Summer Hill is the 67 m waterfall, cascading into a deep gorge. The Falls are best seen after the monsoon. (7 Km/4 mile)
Viceregal Lodge - Housed in the Gothic splendour of the Viceregal Lodge is the Indian Institute of Advanced studies, India's premier academy for higher research.
Himachal State Museum - Very close to the Institute, in a colonial building set in spacious lawns, is the museum. It has collections of Pahari miniatures, stone sculpture, local handicrafts, textiles and embroidery.
Sankat Mochen - On the Shimla - Kalka road is the famous "Lord Hanuman" temple. It commands an excellent view of Shimla town. The place can be reached by Bus/Taxi. (7 Km)
Institute of Advance Studies (4 Km): This magnificent English renaissance structure was the former Viceregal Lodge. Its lawns and woodlands are added attractions. Entry by ticket.
A Devi Temple - On Shimla - Kalka road (NH-22) this holy place is accessible by Rail, bus and car. From the station/road-one can visit the temple either on foot or by taxi / jeep. (11 Km)
Prospect Hill - A 15 minute climb from Boileauganj, Prospect Hill is another favorite walk and vantage point with breath-taking views. There is little temple to Kamna Devi on the top of the hill (5 Km/3 mile)
UDAIPUR (2743 m): In olden times this village was known as Markul and so the name of local goddess is Markula Devi. The temple here is unique and famous for its wooden carving on its roof and ceiling. Raja Udai Singh of Chamba changed its name. This place is situated near the confluence of Chenab and Mayar Nallah. This place is therefore a starting point for Mayar valley and further on to Zanskar and other peaks. This is a green area rather the whole Chenab valley is greener than the Lahaul valley. It has a rest house and some hotels and is a good resting place. Some years back the road was only up to this point and from here the trekking expeditions to different areas used to start. Now the road is under construction beyond this place and the bus is goes upto Tindi. This road has now been connected up to Killar, which is the meeting point of another roads; one from Kishtwar (J&K) and from Chamba over the Sach pass.

Other Places of Interest
Zoo
Navbahar
Aviary at Old Raj Bhavan
Tibetan Monastery
Dhengu Mata Temple.

Excursion
Barog - 55 km - The highest point on the Delhi - Shimla highway, Barog is blessed with a likeable climate for most of the year.
Chail - 43 km - This idyllic resort, set amidst scented forests of pine and deodar, was once the summer resort of the maharajas of Patiala. Located on a wooded spur, Chail overlooks the Sutlej Valley. Shimla and Kasauli are also visible and at night their twinkling lights seem part of the starlit sky. The palace of the maharajas, built in the late 19th century and the pretty cottages of the complex - that once accommodated the ADCs and guests of the royal party - are now part of a charming holiday resort. Chail has lovely walks and trails that meander through the dense pine forests - the home of barking deer, wild boar, pheasant and a variety of birds. Forest rest houses make overnight halts possible. For those interested in sports, Chail has fine tennis and squash courts and a putting green. There are excellent spots along the River Gaura with opportunities for anglers to tangle with the Himalayan mahaseer. Chail has also the highest cricket ground in the world - 2250 m above sea level.
Chindi (94 Km) - Motorable on Shimla-Mandi highway via Tattapani - A beautiful place in Karsog Valley. Himachal tourism's tourist Resort is opening shortly. One can also visit famous Mahunag Temple (18 Km). Mamleshwar mahadev Temple (13 Km) Kamaksha Devi temple (19 Km) Pangna Killa/temple (8 Km) and Shikari Devi Temple (18 Km).
Fagu (22 Km) - On Hindustan-Tibet Road. It has enchanting views. Himachal Tourism runs the Hotel peach Blossom.
Hatkoti (104 Km) - Motorable on shimla-Rohru highway. Famous for ancient temple of Mata Hateswari in the midst of paddy fields on the right bank of the Pabber river. HPTDC runs Hotel Pabber here.
Kharapathhar (85 Km) - Motorable on Shimla-Rohru road. A famous religious shrine Giriganga is 7 Km on foot or by jeep. HPTDC Tourist complex Giriganga Resort under construction.
Kotgarh (82 Km) - Motorable, bifurcation from Narkanda (18 Km) Land of apples and apricots.
Mashobra - 13 km - Noted for its apple orchards and thick woods of oak and pine, Mashobra is a sylvan retreat with pretty walks and picnic spots. A little track leads down to Sipur a grassy glade with a stream wandering thorough it. Excursions are possible to Shali Peak - the highest point in the area or to Craignano ( 3 Km/2 mile) with its elegant guest house set in a delightful flower-filled garden.
Naldhera - 23 km - The scenic, nine hole golf course with its springy turf and crown of deodar was laid out at the instance of the Viceroy, lord Curzon. So enamoured was he by the beauty of the spot, that he named his youngest daughter Alexandra Naldera. Ancient Nag temple is also situated here. Himachal Tourism runs Hotel Golf Glade here.
Narkanda- 64 km - A hill road with superb views links Narkanda with Shimla. Narkanda, located amidst fragrant pine forests is a ski resort in winter. It has a choice of slopes ranging from a beginners run and a slalom slope, to sharper descents for the experienced skier.
Rampur (140 Km) - On the Hindustan Tibet Road. Once the capital of the Princely State of Bushahr, the town is situated on the banks of Satluj river, Big Commercial Centre and famous International Lavi fare which is held in November every year, Dumgir Buddhist Temple, Padam Palace, Raghunath Temple, Ayodhya temple and Narsingh Temple, are worth visiting. Himachal Tourism runs a tourist Complex and air conditioned Cafe, Satluj.
Sarahan (176 Km) - On Hindustan Tibet Road from Jeori Sarahan is (17 Km) with spectacular view of Srikhand range. Sarahan has the majestic Bhimkali Temple. Himachal Tourism runs Hotel Shrikhand. Saharan is the gateway to Kinnaur. A Pheasant Breading Centre and stadium are worth visiting.
Tattapani - 43 km - Tattapani is just 28 Km from Naldehra, along a road winding through the scenic countryside. The hot sulphur springs here, are noted for their invigorating and curative powers.