Archive for the ‘Hill Stations Of India’ Category
About The Place
Altitude : 2202.00 Meters
Population : Approx.1.25 million
Height: Most of the town lies between 2,100 m and 2,300 m
Languages spoken : Hindi. Also English, Punjabi and Pahari.
Religion : Mostly Hindu. Also Sikh, Muslim and Christian
Climate In Shimla
Weather During the Year : Winter are cold and chilly winds from the upper Himalayas makes the place really cold. Around Christmas or last week of December Shimla gets snowfall. Temperature varies from 15 ~27o C in Summers and in winters its in the range 0~17 o C.
Best Season : Shimla can be visited throughout the year, as each season has its charm. The snowfall during the winters attract many tourists and accommodation can prove to be difficult. In the summers one can escape from the scorching heats of the plains and can enjoy the cool breeze at Shimla and in its vicinity. In summer, Shimla has the attraction of excellent walks and treks against the backdrop of the scenic beauty of wooded ravines, flowers and pines. Mall of Shimla becomes alive once again with tourists strolling and shops tastefully decorated and various exhibitions, craft fair etc. organised at locations on the mall.
In winters, it is home to winter-sports and an ice-skating carnival. Today, Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and a favorite for filmmakers who wish to incorporate its scenic romanticism in their movies. Shimla is a stark example of the diversity that India offers to tourists.
What to Wear : Being Hill station the weather is almost cool at Shimla. Warm clothes are required throughout the year. The summers are marked by rainfalls. The nights of summers are cool and light warm clothes are required during this time. In the Winters Pullovers along with Warm Jacket is necessity. One has to take good care of shoes as most of the places are visited on foot, and slopes of Shimla are very steep. In the winters and mainly during snowfall shoes of firm grip are required , so that walking on snow becomes easy.
Main Attractions

Shimla, also known as Simla, is a tourism paradise located in the midst of Himalayan cedars and pines at an altitude of 2,205 m above sea level. Known as the ‘Queen of Hill Stations’, the destination is spread over an area of 18 sq km. The capital city of Himachal Pradesh is located in the north-west Himalayas, in the northern part of India.
The erstwhile summer capital of the British features dense woodlands, apple orchards, beautiful landscapes and other natural bounties. Capitalising on the grand old testimonies, colonial characteristics, peace-loving environment and adventure opportunities, Shimla welcomes tourists from around the world. It offers beautiful façades from the crescent shaped ridge to the descending valleys of evergreens.
The word ‘Shimla’ originated from ‘Shyamali Devi’, a re-incarnation or descendant of the fearsome Goddess Kali. The altar at Jakhoo Hill was initially shifted by the British to the place known as Kali Bari Temple at present. The hill station is enveloped by seven hills that include Jakhoo Hill, Bantony Hill, Prospect Hill, Summer Hill, Observatory Hill, Invererarm Hill and Elysium Hill.
In yesteryears, the historic Hindustan Tibet Road was commissioned in 1850 commencing from Kalka to Shimla and thereafter to the Chinese ruled territory, Tibet. In 1864, the town of Shimla was declared as the summer capital of the British Empire in India. Another red-lettered event in the history of the town was the laying of the Kalka-Shimla railway line in 1903.
The route from Kalka to Shimla on the narrow gauge is among the major tourist attractions. The route, along with trees of fir, pine, walnut, apricot and terraced paddy fields of corn and the famous capsicum, locally known as ‘Shimla Mirch’, runs through 102 tunnels. The district of Shimla has numerous rivulets, small streams and springs and provides opportunities for trekking, rock-climbing and ice-skating.
Introduction
Situated at an altitude of 1,458 Mts.(4,864 ft), 51 km from Siliguri and 30 km from Darjeeling, Kurseong’s natural advantages make it a very attractive tourist destination. Located at a lower elevation, Kurseong enjoys a milder and a very healthy climate throughout the year. It is the peace, serenity and the healthy climate of Kurseong, that attracted many a great person to this place. Guru Rabindra Nath Tagore got inspiration for some of their famous works around Kurseong. Sister Nivedita, the great disciple of Swami Vivekananda made Kurseong her home.
The rich flora of Kurseong town and surroundings is fascinating, and it has aptly been described as a ‘Botanists’ Paradise’. Apart from the charm and beauty that nature has bestowed upon Kurseong, the people of this place are joyous and fun loving and welcome visitors with warmth and hospitality.
Places To Visit
St. Mary’s Hill

The St Mary’s Hill is located around 4 km from the Kurseong Railway Station. It is a scenic natural area covered with lush green forests all around and the way leading to it is equally enthralling. Amidst the greenery is the Eastern Forest Rangers’ College (EFRC) which was the erstwhile site of St. Mary’s seminary. There is a statue of Jesus and Mary here and tourists come here to view this. St. Mary’s Hill also has a beautiful church of St. John and this has been recently built. The church is appreciated for its architectural beauty as much as it is liked is for its scenic locate.
Kettle Valley Picnic Spot

The Kettle Valley Picnic Spot is a popular picnic stop in the town of Kurseong and is visited by locals as well as tourists. This scenic location is enjoyed on a picnic or a day outing with family and friends. It is a beautiful spot on the banks of the river Rinchengtong and one can spot the Dilaram Tea Estate, which is also located close by. The landscape of the place is breathtaking as one can view the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in the backdrop. The surrounding area is lush green with the clear water of the river flowing along side.
Ambotia Shiva Mandir

Kurseong has quite a few well known temples in and around the town and the Ambotia Shiva Mandir is one of the most popular Hindu temples in Kurseong. The Ambotia Shiva Mandir is at a distance of about 5 km from Kurseong town and is located in the Ambotia Tea Estate. Apart from its religious importance, the temple is known for its scenic location. There is a beautiful orange orchard nearby. While visiting the temple, tourists can also see the Ambodia Landslide, which is about a kilometre downhill, dropping down about thousand metres to Balasan.
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Museum

The Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Museum is a popular museum dedicated to the famous freedom fighter of India, Subhash Chandra Bose. The museum is located at Giddhapahar which is about 4 km from the main town of Kurseong. This was earlier the house of Netaji’s older brother, and later came to be converted to a museum. The museum houses many documents, artefacts and articles which are connected to the freedom fighter. Articles like old letters, photographs and personal memorabilia tell the story of the great man and this is a place worth visiting, especially for those interested in the country’s freedom history.
About The Places
Sikkim is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India due to its natural beauty, culture, and biodiversity. Your trip to the Himalayas will be complete when you come to this beautiful and geographically diverse state. One of the smallest states of India Sikkim is the perfect destination for tourists to rest and recreate in the midst of Himalayas. Sikkim, the land of beautiful scenic views has unlimited reasons to attract tourists from all over the world. Lovely Monasteries, temples, stupas and lush greenery catch everybody’s attention. Tour to Sikkim mesmerize the tourists with its spectacular natural beauty like dense forests and bald tablelands, flower-bedecked meadows, shrubs and grasslands, mountain peaks, lush valleys, deep gorges and snow-clad peaks, emerald green wooden slopes and glistering glaciers, mountainous terrains, torrential streams and meandering rivers.
Situated at the foot of Mount Kanchendzonga, Sikkim is a small stretch of land sandwiched between the Kingdom of Nepal in the West and the Kingdom of Bhutan in the East. Sikkim also shares its border with West Bengal. The word Sikkim is derived from the two words Limbu “Su” which means “new” and “Khyim” means “place” or “house”, so the word combinedly means new place or house. Sikkim is an adorable place replete with lofty snow-capped mountains, green-colored rolling slopes, the gushing hills streams, scenic landscape, sparkling orchids, placid lakes and picturesque glaciers. The natural beauty of tiny Sikkim attracts tourists in large numbers. The snow clad Himalayan mountain ranges and virgin forests gives the landscape a mesmerizing look.
Tourist Attractions
Gangtok

It is the capital and principal town of Sikkim, tucked away in the clouds, spread out on the ridge, 5000 feet above sea level. It is a big urban area. Picturesque monasteries and charming pagoda-roofed homes are attractive features of this city. Gangatok is a destination that would lure anyone who has a taste for natural beauty and an inclination or interest in the Buddhist religion and culture. The state secretariat and all the important government offices are located in Gangtok. The Mahatma Gandhi Road (MG Road) is located at the centre of the town and most tourist activity is centered around MG Road. Most of the important hotels are also located around MG Road and its adjacent Tibet Road. This area also has several shops and travel offices including the office of the Sikkim Tourism. The bus and taxi stand is located nearby. It’s a beautiful town with broad roads, flyovers, posh markets, fast food outlets, discotheques and all other modern amenities that one can ask for.
Tsomgo Lake

The lake is about 40 km from Gangtok and situated at an altitude of 12210 ft. It takes about 2 hours drive to reach the lake from Gangtok. It is regarded extremely holy by the locals. The lake is at its scenic best between May and August for an array of rare flowers including the rhododendrons, primulas, iris and blue and yellow poppies bloom here during this period. An ideal habitat of the Red Panda, the lake also shelters a number of other birds and aquatic species. The Tsomgo lake side is also characterized by a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple serves as a famous pilgrimage centre for Shaivites vsisting Sikkim. The lake remains frozen during the winter. Every day a large number of tourist vehicles ferry tourists to the lake on a half day sight seeing tour.
International Flower Festival

A flower show of different varieties of flowers, orchids and other rare plants in Sikkim is very popular among tourist which held every summer during the peak flowering season. This spectacular event attracts people from all over the country. The beautiful state of Sikkim, famous for its flora which is in full bloom during March-May offers around 600 species of orchids, 240 species of trees, 150 varieties of gladioli, 46 types of rhododendrons along with a variety of magnolias and many other foliage plants. Orchids, Gladioli, Roses, Cacti, Alpine Plants, Creepers, Climbers, Ferns and Herbs are the main flowers which displays in the flower show. Seminars and lectures organized by experts also can be attained in the show.
Nathula Pass

Around 56 Km east of Gangtok, Nathula Pass in Himalayas is located on Indo – China border and connects Indian state Sikkim to Tibet Autonomous Region in China. The best part of traveling to Nathula pass is the travel itself. Once you start your journey from Gangtok, it is virtually a journey through heaven. The mist shrouded peaks, the zig zag roads, roaring waterfalls, all become your partners for the entire trip. The Indo-Chinese boarder here was used for trade between Tibet and India till the war of 1965. Since then the boarder remained heavily guarded and closed. During 2006 the boarder has been reopened and trade between the two countries has restarted. Since then, it sees a huge number of tourist visiting the pass every day.
Located at a suitable height and surrounded by trees Patinitop is a peaceful and quiet place in the Jammu region. Its at a distance of four hours from Katra. We can also visit Sanasar which resembles Patnitop. Sanasar is on a higher location. While going towards Sanasar, Mathatop/Nathatop are the places to visit. Patnitop also offers some trekking routes. Patnitop is 112 kms away from Jammu. Its at a height of 2024 meters across the Jammu Srinagar highway. Patnitop offers beautiful picnic spots and nice walks in the mountains. In winters the resort is covered with thick snow. Its a major center for snow games like skiing. The major center of attraction in Patnitop is its natural charm, climate, pine forests and lush green cover. That is why its one of the best resorts of Jammu region.
Patnitop counts amongst the best-developed tourist spots in the Kashmir valley. The natural beauty, dense pine forests and flourishing green landscape of this hill resort makes it a popular tourist destination. Patnitop also boasts of three freshwater springs, with ice-cold water and said to have medicinal properties. A 6-hole golf course (now being expanded to 9-holes) lures tourists to Patnitop in summers. You can also take an excursion to Sudh Mahadev, a holy place near Patnitop. There are many activities to undertake while on a tour of Patnitop, Kashmir. For the adventure lovers, there are amazing trekking options near Patnitop.
Trekking is more enjoyable in Patnitop during summer, when all the treks open up. The most popular trekking route around Patnitop is the Sundarani-Jungal Gali-Jasarkote-Sanasar route in Jangal Gali area. This route offers you three exciting treks to choose from. Then, there are the opportunities of riding ponies along little known trails, paragliding, camping and walks. The flowery meadows of Patnitop consist of an ideal place for walks and picnics. Skiing courses are also conducted at Patnitop in the months of January and February. All said and done, Patni top has something to offer to everyone in every season, so come and explore this beautiful destination!
Tourist Attractions
Skiing

Patnitop also attracts a lot of tourist because of the skiing possibilities that are present here. In winter months, special skiing classes for beginners has been introduced, specially in January and February. The snow covered slopes of Patnitop are not very steep or bumpy, so they turn out to be perfect for starters. For more experienced legs, there is Madhatop, just 5 km away from here, which is more difficult and challenging.
Jammu

Jammu is justly famous for its temples. Infact, it is known as the city of temples and the every fame of its trends to overshadow its palaces, forts, forests and powerful Ziarats (shrines). If Bahu Mata is the presiding deity of Jammu, the Dargah of Peer Budhan Ali Shah is the other shrine that protects Jammuites.
The Naag Temple

Situated on top of the hill, the temple is more than 600 years old. The temple witnesses a large number of devotees on all days and on special occasions, the number is mind boggling. The temple is also a good option for excursions.
Darjeeling is also called ‘Queen of the hills’. This famous hill station in the state of West Bengal in India is one of the highlights of Indian tourism and West Bengal tourism benefits significantly from the vast number of Indian and international tourists that visits Darjeeling every year. The town is also the capital of the Darjeeling district which is the northernmost district of West Bengal bordering Nepal. The town offers fantastic vacations in summer as well as winter. The view of the Himalayas, particularly the magnificent view of the Kanchenjungha is one of the major attractions of Darjeeling. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, popularly known as the toy train, has become the symbol of Darjeeling .
Darjeeling is blessed with beautiful landscape and pleasant weather. Nestled amidst rolling mountains, the first sight of this serene city is enough to captivate a tourist. Boasting of a strategic location and unbound beauty, this place has been a major tourist destination of India since the British era. The cultural diversity, historical connexion, delicious cuisines, unique local market and fantastic trekking expeditions are some of the other reasons why tourists love exploring this beautiful hill resort. Darjeeling also offers them a large number of tourist attractions worth visiting, right from vantage points to war memorials, temples to monasteries and toy train to mountaineering institute. Given below is information on the places to see in Darjeeling city of West Bengal.
Places To Visit
Tiger Hill

Tiger Hill is one of the most popular vantage points in Darjeeling. From here, you can get to see world’s third highest peak, ‘Kanchenjunga’, easily. If you are exceptionally lucky, you can also get to see the highest peak of the world’ Mt. Everest’ from this place. Tiger Hill also offers some awe-inspiring views of surrounding mountains and valley.
War Memorial

The war memorial was built in Darjeeling, in the memory of those brave Gorkha soldiers who sacrificed their life for their country, in all wars and operations that taken place since independence. It was constructed by the Zilla Sainik Board, in 1995. When in Darjeeling, you must visit this place to pay homage to those brave-hearts.
Dhirdham Temple

The Dhirdham temple in Darjeeling roughly resembles the famous Pasupathinath Temple of Kathmandu. The presiding deity of this temple is ‘Lord Shiva’. The temple’s ceiling reflects the influence of Tibetan architectural style. It was constructed by Rai Saheb Purna Bahadur Pradhan in 1939. It is situated near Darjeeling Railway Station.
Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute was inaugurated in 1954, by India’s first Prime Minister, Pt Jawaharlal Nehru. Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, the first man to climb Mt. Everest, was the first Director of Field Training, at this institute. It is one of India’s finest mountaineering institutes, which also houses a mountaineering museum that boasts of a rare collection of historic mountaineering equipments.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

Spread over an area of about 44 hectares, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is renowned for its successful captive breeding of several critical endangered species, like Snow Leopard and Red Panda. Situated at an altitude of 2133.5 meters, on the Birch Hill, this zoo now serves as home to many species of endangered animals as well as birds.
Location: 95-km From Srinagar, Kashmir Region, J&K
Altitude: 2,130m
Main Attractions: Mamaleshwara, Baisaran, Tulian Lake, Aru
Best Time To Visit: In Summer – May To September In Winter – November To February
How To Reach
By Air: Srinagar is the nearest airport at a distance of 95 km.
By Rail: Jammu is the nearest railhead.
By Road: A 2½ hours drive from Srinagar by regular buses or taxis will take you to Pahalgam.
Famous for scenic beauty, the jewel of the Liddar valley, Pahalgam is situated in the western part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Set at 2130 m above sea level, surrounded by the great Himalayas, it is positioned on the banks of the Liddar River. The alpine weather conditions create pleasant and mild weather conditions in summers from April to June, while winters from November to February are cold and experience heavy snowfall. The rainy seasons of July and August see a huge entourage of pilgrims who come here to visit the holy cave of Amarnath, the abode of Lord Shiva, as Pahalgam is the starting point of the famous Amarnath Yatra.
The mention of Pahalgam is found in the regions ruled by the Mughals in the medieval period. Local Hindu kings later ruled over it as a part of the Kingdom of Kashmir until this princely state annexed into India, after independence. The natural beauty of Pahalgam and the luxuriant Liddar valley attracts the tourists. There are number of picnic spots on the shores of River Liddar, flowing near Pahalgam. Pahalgam is also a part of Asia’s only saffron growing area; the saffron plants are in full bloom in November. Pahalgam offers quite a few hiking and trekking trails, which one can explore riding on horseback. The snow capped peaks in the backdrop and lush green pine forests soothe the eyes of the travelers. The Liddar River is popular among travelers interested in angling and trout fishing. Virgin pine forests, clear mountain streams, and meadows of wildflowers mark Pahalgam as part of the paradisiacal beauty of Kashmir.
Tourist Attractions
Tulian Lake

The 11 km long route beyond Baisaran takes you to the Tulian Lake at an altitude of 3,353m. The lake remains covered with snow most of the year and offers a number of adventure sports.
Mamaleshwara Temple

Located at a walking distance from Pahalgam, Mamaleshwara Temple is devoted to Lord Shiva. This small temple has a square shaped tank made of stone. The temple is believed to have been built in the 12th century or even earlier.
Aru

The little village of Aru is actually the first stage from Pahalgam on the trek to Lidderwat and the Kolahoi glacier. It makes an interesting day walk from Pahalgam, following the Lidder river for Pahalgam, following the Lidder river for 11-km upstream. The main track, which also can be taken by car, is on the left bank of the river. There is also a less used, and more difficult path, on the right bank. At Aru one will often find the Gujars, living in their log huts with their flocks of sheep and goats, en route to the higher sheep and goats, en route to the higher pastures for the summer.
Day 01 : Delhi – Manali ( 580 kms)
An overnight drive from Delhi to Manali is recommended. check in at your hotel and day for leisure for your own activities or relax. Manali is situated nearly 40 Kms from Kullu, which is the nearest airport to approach this beautiful hill station. Beas river flows through the town, known for breath taking landscapes, Deodar, Pine trees & snow caped peaks. Manali is an excellent place for holidays, a favorite base for trekkers to Lahaul Spiti, Kinnaur & Leh.
Day 02 : Manali – Rohtang Pass – Manali
Today full day excursion visiting Rohtang Pass (Upto Snow Line in case Rohtang is closed due to snow fall). Overnight at hotel. Rahatang Pass is about 51 Kms from Manali at the altitude of 4,111 meters on the highway to Keylong. There is a lake called Doshohar at the left of the pass. Rohtang pass is a crucial link on the old trade-route and still the gateway to trans Himalayan lahaul as Zozilla pass is between Kashmir valley & Ladakh.
Day 03 : Manali – Kullu – Manali ( 100 kms)
Morning after breakfast proceed to full day city tour of Manali and then drive to Kullu. Hadimba Temple also known as the Doongri Temple, this four-tiered pagoda-like wooden temple have beautiful carvings on its ornamental door. Hadimba temple is dedicated to Hadimba, the wife of Bhim. Vashist Spring – Across the Beas river, about 3 km away from Manali at an altitude of 1,982 meters (6,200 feet), are the natural sulphur springs. The village itself is perched on a steep hillside across the river Beas.
Other places of interest are Tibetan Monastry, The Gompa is covered with brightly coloured frescoes and a mid size Buddhist statute. It also carries a list of the martyrs killed in occupation of Tibet of 1987 to 1989. Beas Kund, the great Rishi Vyas performed Tapa here during Mahabharta times. In time drive to Kullu, Kullu is famous for Dusshera is a unique fair held every year in October. It is a beautiful amalgam of history, rich culture and customs. Kullu is is renowned for it’s traditional handicrafts, Kullu shawls and caps are admired for their rich colored patterns.
The places of Interest are Bijli Mahadev temple 10kms. from Kulu across the Beas river, Bijli Mahadev temple , from the temple a panoramic view of Kulu & Paravati valleys can be seen Raghunath Ji Temple 1 km. from Dhalpur, Raghunathji is the principal deity of the valley & Vaishno Devi Temple at a distance of 4kms. from Dhalpur.
Day 04 : Manali
Day Free to Liesure and independent activities, Over night at hotel. There are many places where you can shop for handicrafts and local curios in Manali. Make a trip to the colourful Tibetan Bazaar at the extreme south end of Manali sells Kullu shawls, caps, and other woollen clothes, check out the Tibetan Carpets Centre at the Gadan Thekchokling Gompa for rugs, carpets and handicrafts.
Day 05 : Delhi – Manali
In time Drive to Delhi either fly or overnight bus to Delhi.
Population 18,000
Languages Rajasthani, Hindi
Best time to visit all through the year, especially during summer
STD Code 02974
Mount Abu is one of the famous hill destinations in the desert state of Rajasthan in the western part of India. It is located in the Sihori district, and is 58 km from Palanpur. Known earlier as Arbudaanchal, Mount Abu has its throne fixed as the highest peak in Aravali Range of Rajasthan.
There is quite a bit of history associated with Mount Abu. Historians believe that the original residents of Mount Abu were Gurjars. The association of Gurjars with Arbuda mountain (Mt Abu) dates back in many inscriptions and epigraphs found from this region. As early as sixth century A.D, Gurjars located themselves in Arbuda Mountain and many parts of Rajasthan and Gujarat. In mythology it is said that Saint Vasistha performed his final recites and retired to the hills of Mount Abu due to his differences with sage Vishvamitra.
Located at a height of 1220 meters from sea level, Mount Abu definitely gets an extra advantage as a tourist spot because this is the only single hill station in Rajasthan. Visitors come here from nearby parts of Rajasthan and Gujarat to get away from the summer heat and relax and unwind in the pleasant weather and comfortable climate of the place. The greenery all around adds to the beauty of the hill town.
Places To Visit
Dilwara Jain Temples is one of the finest Jain temple known world over for its extraordinary architecture and marvelous marble stone carvings, some experts also consider it architecturally superior to the Taj Mahal. It seems fairly basic temple from outside but every cloud has a silver lining, the temple interior showcases the extraordinary work of human craftsmanship at its best. These temples were built between 11th to 13th century AD, The beautiful lush green hills surrounding the temple gives a very pleasant feeling.
AchalGarh, sometimes spelt Achalgadh, is one of the many beautiful medieval monuments that can be found in the picturesque Mount Abu, located in the desert in the state of Rajasthan, India. It was commissioned by Rana Kumbha, the esteemed designer who was responsible for many huge fortresses in Southern Rajasthan. Achalgarh is just 8 Kilometers from the main Mount Abu town and is well connected by road.
The fortress AchalGarh is surrounded by massive battlement walls. It is situated at the top of a mountain peak and offers picturesque views all year round. AchalGarh is found at the top of a steep winding path, whereby the 15th century fortresses and the temples are enclosed within the fortified walls. These fortified walls provide scenic lookouts onto the countryside.A 10 minute climb from AchalGarh brings you to the beautiful and historic Jain Temples. These temples are a must visit for more great views and the beautiful sculpture.
Nakki Lake the mythological lake with a very interesting story behind its creation is the heart of Mount Abu, the legend has it that this lake was dugg by Gods or Devtas using their nails or nakh that’s why the name Nakki Lake – few sections of local tribes also consider Nakki Lake as a holy lake and worship it, Nakki lake is also the only Indian artificial lake situated at a height of 1200 Mtr’s above sea level. Recently in 2006-2007 Nakki lake was granted a huge financial boost for its protection amongst eight other lakes in India.
Situated within walking distance from the main market and almost 80% of Hotel’s and restaurent’s of Mount Abu, Nakki lake posses the crown of being the heart of Mount Abu. The hub of evening activity and boating – Nakki Lake is the perfect place to spent your evening with your partner, friends and family.










