Tourist Attractions in Shimla |
Shimla is the capital of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. British declared this city as their summer capital in 1864. Presently, it is a sought after tourist destination and dubbed as the Queen of Hills. Situated in the north western part of the Himalayan Mountains, Shimla has an elevation of 2,205 meters above sea level. Surrounded by pine and oak forests and the snow capped peaks in winter, Shimla is a popular retreat for the honeymoon couples and international visitors. The colonial buildings in this city reflect the neo-Gothic architecture. Shimla is home to a number of natural, historical and religious sites drawing tourists throughout the year. The Shimla Summer Festival brings in large tourist crowd. There are also local hang out areas, markets for shopping and restaurants making your vacation to Shimla an experience of a lifetime. Shimla also has numerous temples that bring in devotees on different occasions. There are also several entertainment options here. This city is home to Asia’s largest natural ice skating ring.
Top Shimla Attractions This picturesque town is host to a number of attractions such as the following: Shimla Mall – The shopping hub of Shimla, Shimla Mall is the ultimate hangout zone in this town. It has a number of restaurants, cafes, government offices and cinema complexes. The Gaiety Theatre is an important attraction on Shimla Mall road. Built by the British, it is host to several cultural activities now. The Mall road runs parallel to the Ridge and bends at the Lakkar Bazaar, the famous market for wood crafts and furniture. The Ridge – Situated in the heart of Shimla, The Ridge is an open space running alongside Shimla Mall. The Shimla Summer Festival takes place here and New Year witnesses a grand celebration. On its eastern end is a large reservoir that acts as the main water supply for the town.
Himachal State Museum and Library –
Also known as the Shimla State Museum, ancient sculptures and paintings form the largest collection here. Inaugurated in 1974, this museum also houses a gallery of miniature Pahari style of painting, wood carvings, jewelry and costumes. It gives tourists a glimpse of the cultural wealth of Himachal Pradesh. Christ Church, Shimla – It is the second oldest Christian house of worship in North India. Located on the Ridge, it was constructed in 1857, soon after the Sepoy Mutiny. It is another structure in the town built in the neo-Gothic style. Lockwood Kipling designed the chancel window of the central hall. In 1860, a clock was added on the church tower. Indian Institute of Advanced Studies – Started in the year 1888, this institution is a fine example of Renaissance architecture. The beautiful lawns and the garden are added features. The beautifully lined pine trees add to the serenity of the place. Summer Hill – A 5 km drive from The Ridge will take you the township called the Summer Hill, situated at an elevation of 6,500 feet. The University of Himachal Pradesh is situated here and Mahatma Gandhi is believed to have stayed here during his visits to the state. It is also among the popular honeymoon locales in the city. Kali Bari Temple – This temple in Shimla has Goddess Shyamala Devi as the principal deity. Shimla derives its name from this goddess. Tara Devi Temple – This Hindu shrine in Shimla is located on the Shimla-Kalka road and around 11 km away from the Shimla bus terminal. This temple is dedicated to the Goddess of the heavenly stars. The hilltop offers stunning views of the city. |
Monday, 22 April 2013
Tourist Attractions in Shimla
history
HIMACHAL HISTORY
After Indian Independence, a Union Territory of Hill states was created. It primarily consituted of hill states around Shimla. On November 1, 1966 Punjab Hill areas were merged into Himachal as part of reorganization of Punjab. Himachal Pradesh became a full fledged state of the Republic of India on January 25, 1971.
Himachal Pradesh has been on the path of progress since Independence. The literacy rate of the state is 63% now and is improving every decade. The population has almost stabilized at about 5 million, thanks to high literacy and effective family planning programs. Every village in the state has electricity and drinking water now.
Many young men from Himachal serve the Indian Army and have played significant role in the National defense. Dharamsala has a war memorial dedicated to the memory of those who lost their lives for their country.
Himachal has one state university at Shimla, namely, Himachal Pradesh University. There is a Regional Engineering College (REC) at Hamirpur that has students from all over India. In addition, there is a Medical College at Shimla.
Himachal is literally a power house when it comes to hydro-electricity. The state has many dams that harness the hilly rivers to generate electric power. The electricity is used by farmers in Punjab, Haryana and by the industries in the northern plains.
After Indian Independence, a Union Territory of Hill states was created. It primarily consituted of hill states around Shimla. On November 1, 1966 Punjab Hill areas were merged into Himachal as part of reorganization of Punjab. Himachal Pradesh became a full fledged state of the Republic of India on January 25, 1971.
Himachal Pradesh has been on the path of progress since Independence. The literacy rate of the state is 63% now and is improving every decade. The population has almost stabilized at about 5 million, thanks to high literacy and effective family planning programs. Every village in the state has electricity and drinking water now.
Many young men from Himachal serve the Indian Army and have played significant role in the National defense. Dharamsala has a war memorial dedicated to the memory of those who lost their lives for their country.
Himachal has one state university at Shimla, namely, Himachal Pradesh University. There is a Regional Engineering College (REC) at Hamirpur that has students from all over India. In addition, there is a Medical College at Shimla.
Himachal is literally a power house when it comes to hydro-electricity. The state has many dams that harness the hilly rivers to generate electric power. The electricity is used by farmers in Punjab, Haryana and by the industries in the northern plains.
Dharamsala and Mcleod Ganj
Dharamsala and Mcleod Ganj | A quaint getaway to Land of Tibet!!”
The Journey covers more than seventeen hundred and fifty kilometers of travel and covers your route and expense list for a good 4 nights/ 5 days trip to Dharamshala and Mac Leod Ganj. This fantastic rendezvous with peace and travel covers states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh.
It dawned on me all of a sudden and of course with the combined dilemma of all business executives that I had not traveled without any reasons and commitments for a long time. It seemed almost impossible to be able to plan a vacation of your own. Try going into Google and typing a harmless line like: ‘Holiday destinations in India’. You my friend, will be in for a surprise!!!
All you get to see is package tours; like the world forgot what is was like to travel by them! I love the tour operators, don’t get me wrong, but sometimes you just have to give people some room. The best part in every travel itinerary is a thought which says:
‘Day at Leisure!!’ This is a simple sentence which means “please do whatever you want to – we have run out of ideas!!!”
My journey began in Udaipur, the cultural capital of Rajasthan also known as the city of lakes. The total distance I had to cover to reach Dharamsala was 1729 km via road, air and then trekking. It just dawned on me that I was still stuck in office till 7 pm in the evening on the day of my departure and I had not really packed. My flight to Delhi was in the early morning from Ahmadabad (this sector is much cheaper comparatively and you might want to book an early morning or midnight flight). I took a taxi from Udaipur and moved quite late at around 12 midnight. The roads are absolutely alive at night and throughout the entire country there are roadside eateries which will dish the most aromatic edibles in a matter of minutes. The taxi cost me about 1800 INR including toll fees and I reached Ahmadabad at 3 am in the morning. The airport was exceptionally quiet apart from a huge group of Patels, evidently sending one of their sons abroad; the whole village had come to see them off!!
Ahmadabad to Delhi Sector is much more frequent and cheaper due to huge volumes of business and merchant travelers. It was not therefore surprising that I got my ticket for around 2500 INR at 7:10 in the morning. Now, the whole idea for me to take the flight was to cut on the travelling time and spend some time in Delhi catching up with some old friends, which is exactly what I did, the minute I landed. My friend was there to pick me up and we zoomed to his place for breakfast and a morning siesta considering I had not slept the whole night!!
I spent a lazy afternoon at one of my favorite hang out spots in Delhi – Café Blues in Connaught Place. This place has so many memories attached that every time I walk in, it feels home. They have an amazing decor and one of the most lavish menu spreads you can find for miles in Delhi. Try the chicken satay, the salads and the yummiest chicken biryani!! This place is ideal for a lazy brunch with some foot tapping retro classics at the background. The uniform is very attractive and you would definitely bump into an old timer who would go gaga about the place.
By the time it was 5:30 in the afternoon, we walked out of Café Blues feeling absolutely stuffed and content. I had to go from Vasant Kunj to ISBT so I decided against all odds and took a cab to ISBT by 6 pm.
ISBT in Delhi is a world in itself. If you wish to witness chaos and unity in diversity, I bet this would be the starting point. I mean there are buses from every conceivable city to this place. I was informed that my Bus was at 8 pm and the terminal was 27. Considering the huge back pack I was carrying I felt the need to move towards the terminal right away and unload. HRTC runs very comfortable buses from ISBT to Manali, Dharamshala, Shimla etc. The ticket cost me 840 INR and very soon I was seated in a comfortable luxury Air conditioned Volvo. You can never miss the buses, they are green……I mean absolutely green!!
I cannot describe the feeling I first had when I woke up in the morning. The bus was climbing its way up in the hills and it was drizzling. The temperature was around 14 degrees Celsius and I took out my jacket as the air was chilly. I reached ISBT Dharamshala at 7 am in the morning. The first glimpse of the clouded hills beyond and the colorful Tibetan flags set the mood for a vacation well chosen. We were four of us and we quickly hired a taxi to take us to Mac Leod Ganj. The trip is a short 9 kms away from Dharamshala and we met an amazing taxi guy who made the 9 kms an absolute delight. His name was Prem and perhaps the best guide as well I have met in a long time.
He dropped us off at the main Mac Leod Ganj square from where we set out on hotel hunting. July is off season as it’s rainy and you can get wonderful rooms for less than half the rate. My brother – in – law and my sister have perhaps entered the Guinness book of world records for maximum travel in the last one year. After they got married, they have undertaken 24 trips all across the country and south east Asia in the last one year. I got a very good deal from my brother-in-law’s agent who booked me into this hotel known as Him Queen. We got a suite room for 1500 INR complete with an attached balcony and bath tub!!!
The room was beautiful and the view breathe taking as we slowly settled into after a hot shower and some pancakes and eggs. I decided against sleeping and we set off towards the main square with some sturdy shoes on.
I had heard a lot about Mc llo which is right in the main market square so we decided to crash in for lunch. The place is really well done and is absolutely lively even in the afternoon. Just as we entered the first heavy showers hit McLeod Ganj. Fried momos, steamed momos, Tibetan noodles and some amazing pizzas….yes that is exactly what we gorged on! Ratings: SUPERB. The price is just about right (although) towards the higher side and from the restaurant you get the full view of the main market square and the hills beyond. They have a lovely collection of beverages and it is quite surprising to find almost all Sula varieties in this part of town. A typical meal for two with two beverages included will cost you around 600 – 800 INR.
Next on our agenda was skirting the nearby environs and following up on the next 4 days on what to do. I picked up a guide on Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj for 60 INR and got busy studying the whole place. It’s not very far, the main places of attraction and if you can plan well, you will be able to cover all these places in 1-2 days. The trekking trips to Dhauladhar, Truind and such places will be more intense and you can plan at least 5 – 7 days for these treks. There are numerous adventure agencies and they can do a fine job for you, be advised, pack light and pack right!! It’s very important and I realized it a bit too late during our trek to Bhagsunag Waterfalls and beyond.
The beauty of this place is definitely its people. Everyone is so helpful and courteous; it seems amazing that they have suffered so much in the past. We were idling in the streets and the bazaars selling Tibetan goods, clothes, artifacts well all so cheerful because these are good people by heart. I found a hair dresser and got in for a hair cut and a lovely head massage. I have to admit, this guy was good!! All my strain and sore muscles at the back was absolutely gone!! He runs a small little place known as Abdesh Hair Dressers and it is on the old temple road.
That evening we spent doing what we do best, watching movies!! It was after a long time that we were all relaxed and caught up with two new movies which had just been released and the whole world was going gaga about.
Next morning after a late breakfast, I called up Prem….our taxiwalla and he said he would take us around Dharamshala and the immediate vicinity. I had looked up the map and wanted to visit, Naddi village, Dal Lake and the Dalai Lama’s exiled government complex. He agreed and said he would meet us at the hotel in an hour’s time. If you plan to visit this place make sure you take up accommodation near market places, this is a small sleepy town and if you take up hotels in the far reaches, make sure you arrange for your own transport.
As we got out of the hotel it was pouring cats and dogs and for the first time after many years I had seen hail. Stones were lashing at us in all shapes and sizes; I have to tell you that this had turned the whole scenic view into grandeur. After a brief half an hour wait in the hotel lobby we set out in Prem’s taxi.
First we reached the Mcleod Ganj Main square and went down on the Dharamshala Road. There is a very old Nowrojee Store, which you cannot miss, take the road which goes adjacent to it if you have to go to Dharamshala. The Revered St. John’s Church was first on our itinerary and it is hardly 1 km from Mcleodganj. This place is on the way to Dharamshala and is one of the oldest churches in North India. The Church is famous for its glass paintings as well as a small cremation ground, which dates back to 1850.
Just a quick walk from the Church will lead you to the war cemetery. Now, this place is really something which will give you Goosebumps. This place has cemeteries that date back to the 1800s!! It’s spread over a huge expanse of green winding its way up and down on the hills and you can just sit back and gaze…wonder what life would have been at that very spot a hundred and fifty years back!
I can just about hear the sound of horses’ hooves in the distant dark. It’s raining heavily and the hills are roaring with winds tearing you apart. The sound of boots marching up the hill as more than a hundred men in uniform, dressed in the Queen’s red army, march their way. This caravan is followed by a man in black dressed heavily in an accentuated collar coat and rain boots. He holds a small baby in his hands and walks up to the cemetery. This is Major John Wilkes, The Officer Commanding of the Gorkha Rifles posted at Simla, His two month old baby has just died in his arms because of pneumonia. FLASHBACK TO 2009.
I RISE AND OFFER A PRAYER in my mind, yet it all seems like yesterday. This is reality and it has just stuck me that we still have to reach the earth to reach for the heavens above…dust to dust.
We then drove straight to The Dal Lake in upper Mcleodganj, towards Naddi. This place offers a magnificent view of the imposing Dhauladhar mountain range. The fog had still not cleared so we decided to stick around this place for some time in the hope of being able to see the lofty peaks. Tibet lies beyond these mountains and one has to undertake an arduous ordeal to reach the land of the first sun. As I lit up my cigarette and looked beyond a sudden gush of adrenaline forced me to undertake the journey….see what lies in the land ahead. Luckily by then the fog had cleared and the view was clearer……..it was the most picturesque site I had seen in a long time. The snow capped peaks and the mountains are a site for sore eyes.
The entire Dhauladhar range can be viewed from here at a distance and the calm of this place is absolutely fantastic. If you look up the map of Macleodganj, this area is to the absolutely north west on top and true to its beckoning this had me mesmerized.
Next on our agenda was the visit to His Holiness The Dalai Lama’s Monastery and Tibetan Government in Exile Offices, Dharamshala. The winding roads down led us to Dharamshala and soon we were approaching the complex. Far away in the distance was a distinct banner with the National Flag of Tibet……it said: TIBET..ONE NATION..ONE PEOPLE…FREE TIBET!!
The call was heart touching and it had a deep sense of pain. The main temple complex is distinct from the residence of His Holiness. The Tibet Museum, the Tibetan Dialectic Institute and the main temple beyond is magnificent. When the Chinese had invaded Tibet they destroyed a majority of the 6000 odd monasteries and destroyed their entire heritage and age old traditions. Whatever remained was stored and is still preserved in this temple complex.
The Museum is a stark reminder of the pain and the struggle that their people have gone through. Every picture and every exhibit speaks a thousand words behind those mesmerizing eyes. I collected loads of Literature on Tibet and their current international perspectives, which I’m still trying to read and understand what we can do to help.
It dawned on me all of a sudden and of course with the combined dilemma of all business executives that I had not traveled without any reasons and commitments for a long time. It seemed almost impossible to be able to plan a vacation of your own. Try going into Google and typing a harmless line like: ‘Holiday destinations in India’. You my friend, will be in for a surprise!!!
All you get to see is package tours; like the world forgot what is was like to travel by them! I love the tour operators, don’t get me wrong, but sometimes you just have to give people some room. The best part in every travel itinerary is a thought which says:
‘Day at Leisure!!’ This is a simple sentence which means “please do whatever you want to – we have run out of ideas!!!”
My journey began in Udaipur, the cultural capital of Rajasthan also known as the city of lakes. The total distance I had to cover to reach Dharamsala was 1729 km via road, air and then trekking. It just dawned on me that I was still stuck in office till 7 pm in the evening on the day of my departure and I had not really packed. My flight to Delhi was in the early morning from Ahmadabad (this sector is much cheaper comparatively and you might want to book an early morning or midnight flight). I took a taxi from Udaipur and moved quite late at around 12 midnight. The roads are absolutely alive at night and throughout the entire country there are roadside eateries which will dish the most aromatic edibles in a matter of minutes. The taxi cost me about 1800 INR including toll fees and I reached Ahmadabad at 3 am in the morning. The airport was exceptionally quiet apart from a huge group of Patels, evidently sending one of their sons abroad; the whole village had come to see them off!!
Ahmadabad to Delhi Sector is much more frequent and cheaper due to huge volumes of business and merchant travelers. It was not therefore surprising that I got my ticket for around 2500 INR at 7:10 in the morning. Now, the whole idea for me to take the flight was to cut on the travelling time and spend some time in Delhi catching up with some old friends, which is exactly what I did, the minute I landed. My friend was there to pick me up and we zoomed to his place for breakfast and a morning siesta considering I had not slept the whole night!!
I spent a lazy afternoon at one of my favorite hang out spots in Delhi – Café Blues in Connaught Place. This place has so many memories attached that every time I walk in, it feels home. They have an amazing decor and one of the most lavish menu spreads you can find for miles in Delhi. Try the chicken satay, the salads and the yummiest chicken biryani!! This place is ideal for a lazy brunch with some foot tapping retro classics at the background. The uniform is very attractive and you would definitely bump into an old timer who would go gaga about the place.
By the time it was 5:30 in the afternoon, we walked out of Café Blues feeling absolutely stuffed and content. I had to go from Vasant Kunj to ISBT so I decided against all odds and took a cab to ISBT by 6 pm.
ISBT in Delhi is a world in itself. If you wish to witness chaos and unity in diversity, I bet this would be the starting point. I mean there are buses from every conceivable city to this place. I was informed that my Bus was at 8 pm and the terminal was 27. Considering the huge back pack I was carrying I felt the need to move towards the terminal right away and unload. HRTC runs very comfortable buses from ISBT to Manali, Dharamshala, Shimla etc. The ticket cost me 840 INR and very soon I was seated in a comfortable luxury Air conditioned Volvo. You can never miss the buses, they are green……I mean absolutely green!!
I cannot describe the feeling I first had when I woke up in the morning. The bus was climbing its way up in the hills and it was drizzling. The temperature was around 14 degrees Celsius and I took out my jacket as the air was chilly. I reached ISBT Dharamshala at 7 am in the morning. The first glimpse of the clouded hills beyond and the colorful Tibetan flags set the mood for a vacation well chosen. We were four of us and we quickly hired a taxi to take us to Mac Leod Ganj. The trip is a short 9 kms away from Dharamshala and we met an amazing taxi guy who made the 9 kms an absolute delight. His name was Prem and perhaps the best guide as well I have met in a long time.
He dropped us off at the main Mac Leod Ganj square from where we set out on hotel hunting. July is off season as it’s rainy and you can get wonderful rooms for less than half the rate. My brother – in – law and my sister have perhaps entered the Guinness book of world records for maximum travel in the last one year. After they got married, they have undertaken 24 trips all across the country and south east Asia in the last one year. I got a very good deal from my brother-in-law’s agent who booked me into this hotel known as Him Queen. We got a suite room for 1500 INR complete with an attached balcony and bath tub!!!
The room was beautiful and the view breathe taking as we slowly settled into after a hot shower and some pancakes and eggs. I decided against sleeping and we set off towards the main square with some sturdy shoes on.
I had heard a lot about Mc llo which is right in the main market square so we decided to crash in for lunch. The place is really well done and is absolutely lively even in the afternoon. Just as we entered the first heavy showers hit McLeod Ganj. Fried momos, steamed momos, Tibetan noodles and some amazing pizzas….yes that is exactly what we gorged on! Ratings: SUPERB. The price is just about right (although) towards the higher side and from the restaurant you get the full view of the main market square and the hills beyond. They have a lovely collection of beverages and it is quite surprising to find almost all Sula varieties in this part of town. A typical meal for two with two beverages included will cost you around 600 – 800 INR.
Next on our agenda was skirting the nearby environs and following up on the next 4 days on what to do. I picked up a guide on Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj for 60 INR and got busy studying the whole place. It’s not very far, the main places of attraction and if you can plan well, you will be able to cover all these places in 1-2 days. The trekking trips to Dhauladhar, Truind and such places will be more intense and you can plan at least 5 – 7 days for these treks. There are numerous adventure agencies and they can do a fine job for you, be advised, pack light and pack right!! It’s very important and I realized it a bit too late during our trek to Bhagsunag Waterfalls and beyond.
The beauty of this place is definitely its people. Everyone is so helpful and courteous; it seems amazing that they have suffered so much in the past. We were idling in the streets and the bazaars selling Tibetan goods, clothes, artifacts well all so cheerful because these are good people by heart. I found a hair dresser and got in for a hair cut and a lovely head massage. I have to admit, this guy was good!! All my strain and sore muscles at the back was absolutely gone!! He runs a small little place known as Abdesh Hair Dressers and it is on the old temple road.
That evening we spent doing what we do best, watching movies!! It was after a long time that we were all relaxed and caught up with two new movies which had just been released and the whole world was going gaga about.
Next morning after a late breakfast, I called up Prem….our taxiwalla and he said he would take us around Dharamshala and the immediate vicinity. I had looked up the map and wanted to visit, Naddi village, Dal Lake and the Dalai Lama’s exiled government complex. He agreed and said he would meet us at the hotel in an hour’s time. If you plan to visit this place make sure you take up accommodation near market places, this is a small sleepy town and if you take up hotels in the far reaches, make sure you arrange for your own transport.
As we got out of the hotel it was pouring cats and dogs and for the first time after many years I had seen hail. Stones were lashing at us in all shapes and sizes; I have to tell you that this had turned the whole scenic view into grandeur. After a brief half an hour wait in the hotel lobby we set out in Prem’s taxi.
First we reached the Mcleod Ganj Main square and went down on the Dharamshala Road. There is a very old Nowrojee Store, which you cannot miss, take the road which goes adjacent to it if you have to go to Dharamshala. The Revered St. John’s Church was first on our itinerary and it is hardly 1 km from Mcleodganj. This place is on the way to Dharamshala and is one of the oldest churches in North India. The Church is famous for its glass paintings as well as a small cremation ground, which dates back to 1850.
Just a quick walk from the Church will lead you to the war cemetery. Now, this place is really something which will give you Goosebumps. This place has cemeteries that date back to the 1800s!! It’s spread over a huge expanse of green winding its way up and down on the hills and you can just sit back and gaze…wonder what life would have been at that very spot a hundred and fifty years back!
I can just about hear the sound of horses’ hooves in the distant dark. It’s raining heavily and the hills are roaring with winds tearing you apart. The sound of boots marching up the hill as more than a hundred men in uniform, dressed in the Queen’s red army, march their way. This caravan is followed by a man in black dressed heavily in an accentuated collar coat and rain boots. He holds a small baby in his hands and walks up to the cemetery. This is Major John Wilkes, The Officer Commanding of the Gorkha Rifles posted at Simla, His two month old baby has just died in his arms because of pneumonia. FLASHBACK TO 2009.
I RISE AND OFFER A PRAYER in my mind, yet it all seems like yesterday. This is reality and it has just stuck me that we still have to reach the earth to reach for the heavens above…dust to dust.
We then drove straight to The Dal Lake in upper Mcleodganj, towards Naddi. This place offers a magnificent view of the imposing Dhauladhar mountain range. The fog had still not cleared so we decided to stick around this place for some time in the hope of being able to see the lofty peaks. Tibet lies beyond these mountains and one has to undertake an arduous ordeal to reach the land of the first sun. As I lit up my cigarette and looked beyond a sudden gush of adrenaline forced me to undertake the journey….see what lies in the land ahead. Luckily by then the fog had cleared and the view was clearer……..it was the most picturesque site I had seen in a long time. The snow capped peaks and the mountains are a site for sore eyes.
The entire Dhauladhar range can be viewed from here at a distance and the calm of this place is absolutely fantastic. If you look up the map of Macleodganj, this area is to the absolutely north west on top and true to its beckoning this had me mesmerized.
Next on our agenda was the visit to His Holiness The Dalai Lama’s Monastery and Tibetan Government in Exile Offices, Dharamshala. The winding roads down led us to Dharamshala and soon we were approaching the complex. Far away in the distance was a distinct banner with the National Flag of Tibet……it said: TIBET..ONE NATION..ONE PEOPLE…FREE TIBET!!
The call was heart touching and it had a deep sense of pain. The main temple complex is distinct from the residence of His Holiness. The Tibet Museum, the Tibetan Dialectic Institute and the main temple beyond is magnificent. When the Chinese had invaded Tibet they destroyed a majority of the 6000 odd monasteries and destroyed their entire heritage and age old traditions. Whatever remained was stored and is still preserved in this temple complex.
The Museum is a stark reminder of the pain and the struggle that their people have gone through. Every picture and every exhibit speaks a thousand words behind those mesmerizing eyes. I collected loads of Literature on Tibet and their current international perspectives, which I’m still trying to read and understand what we can do to help.
Famous Places Around shimla
Famous Places Around
KufriSituated at the height of 2,633 meters, Kufri is a dream holiday escape having magnificent snowy peaks and sublime weather. It is the winter sports capital. Kufri in Shimla is the most favourable place for winter sports activities. Excellent view of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Pirpanjal Range and Shiwalik Range from a height.
Naldehra
Situated at an altitude of 3,044 meters, Naldera offers one of the oldest and most sporting golf courses in India set in the midst of thick forests. The country around Naldera is also famous for its temples which are representative of the typical hill architecture of the area. Naldera in Shimla is known for its nine hole golf course. Naldera course was laid by Lord Curzon in 1903.
Narkanda
Situated at an altitude of 2,708 meters, Narkanda in Shimla commands a unique view of the eternal snow line and the dense forest. A quaint sleepy hamlet. From here, you get breathtaking view of the snow clad Himalayas. 'Hatu Peak' at an altitude of 3,143 meters above sea level ai 8 km. from Narkanda is an excellent site for camping. In winter, there are exciting ski slopes to Ski on.
Chail
Situated at an altitude of 2,250 meters, Chail was the Summer Capital of the erstwhile Patiala State. The small town is located amid thick woods and has fine walks. It has the highest cricket ground in the world. The dense forests around are alive with many species of birds and animals but it is best known for its Scottish red Deer which were introduced by the Maharaja. The place commands a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills.
Fagu
Situated at an altitude of 2,510 meters, Fagu's idyllic surroundings area for those looking for tranquility and solitude. A slam hamlet overlooking prosperous apple orchards and with a fine view of the Himalayan Panorama. Fagu in Shimla is also a popular trekking stage. A very fine place for peace lovers.
shimla
Location & Information
ShimlaShimla, the capital town of Himachal Pradesh and built over several hills and connecting ridges, is a place blessed with supreme natural beauty and year round refreshing weather with snowy peaks, thickly wooded mountains, diverse spectrum of Flora and Fauna, sky catching Glaciers, whistling streams and azure skies. To be here is to be in another world of peace and enjoy unmatched by any other hill station of the world.
Kufri
Situated at an altitude of 2,633 meters, 16km. from Shimla, Kufri has won a name on the sports and tourist map of India due to its Ski-runs, Seed Potato Farm of the Central Potato Research Institute and Food Craft Institute. It is the winter sports capital. Kufri in Shimla is the most favourable place for winter sports activities. Excellent view of Badrinath, Kedarnath, Pirpanjal Range and Shiwalik Range from a height.
Getting to Shimla
By RAIL:
Shimla is connected to Kalka ( 96 km. ) on Meter Gauge and it takes around 6 Hrs from KALKA to reach SHIMLA
By AIR:
Nearest Airport is at Jubbarhatti 23 km. and is connected to Chandigarh, Kullu, Delhi.
By ROAD:
Accessible throughout the year from all important places i.e.
Important Distances
Delhi 370 km.
Chandigarh 117 km.
Pathankot 295 km.
Manali 260 km.
Mandi 150 km.
Palampur 235 km.
Dharamshala ( via Hamirpur ) 235 km.
Dalhousie 336 km.
Sarahan 175 km.
Sangla 230 km.
Kalpa 244 km.
Tabo 374 km.
Kaza 421 km.
Keylong ( via Kunzum Pass ) 610 km.
Hatkoti 109 km.
Chigaon 137 km.
Kasauli 75 km.
Renuka 165 km.
Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh
The mesmerizing natural beauty coupled with the skyscraping Himalayan Mountains with their lush white snowy tips. The Himachal Pradesh stands true to its tales of splendor. Naturally, tourism has flourished here, attracting mountain lovers from all over the world. The wide forests with snow leopards residing in them, is also equally alluring. Not to mention numerous national parks and animal reserves in Himachal. The chilly Himalayas are well balanced by the warm people of Himachal. The variety in the Indian continent also shows in the population density of India. Himachal Pradesh is of the Indian states having least population density. That's probably why the nature at Himachal is ever flourishing without human encroachment polluting it. In more than 50000 square kilometers' expanse, the density of population is just above 100. The total population of himachal only counts up to above 60 lacs according to the state census 2011 and appears to be growing at an average rate.The literacy rate in the himachal state is also satisfactory and has risen up to more than 80 % according to the 2011 census. Although the sex ratio of himachal is not ideal, the female count is above 90%. The literacy rate in females, however, is low as compared to the other gender and has scope of increment. It's found that the literacy is already increasing rapidly as compared to the previous census. The state is advanced with regards to the provided education, and tourism opportunities. But, urbanization has not spread itself in himachal Pradesh. About only 10% of the population resides in urban areas while the rest in villages. The capital of Himachal, Shimla, along with Kullu, Manali, Dharmashala, Kangra are some of the urban areas. With urban streets filled with tourists, and the village lanes with mountaineers and the natives, himachal presents a vibrant mix of culture.
The capital city which is also the largest city in the state of Himachal Pradesh is Shimla. The languages spoken in the Himachal Pradesh state includes Hindi. In total Himachal Pradesh (HP) state comprises 12 districts. The ISOCODE assigned by International Organization for Standardization for Himachal Pradesh state is HP.
Himachal Pradesh Population 2011
As per details from Census 2011, Himachal Pradesh has population of 68.56 Lakh, an increase from figure of 60.78 Lakh in 2001 census. Total population of Himachal Pradesh as per 2011 census is 6,856,509 of which male and female are 3,473,892 and 3,382,617 respectively. In 2001, total population was 6,077,900 in which males were 3,087,940 while females were 2,989,960.Himachal Pradesh Population Growth Rate
The total population growth in this decade was 12.81 percent while in previous decade it was 17.53 percent. The population of Himachal Pradesh forms 0.57 percent of India in 2011. In 2001, the figure was 0.59 percent.Himachal Pradesh Literacy Rate 2011
Literacy rate in Himachal Pradesh has seen upward trend and is 83.78 percent as per 2011 population census. Of that, male literacy stands at 90.83 percent while female literacy is at 76.60 percent. In 2001, literacy rate in Himachal Pradesh stood at 76.48 percent of which male and female were 85.35 percent and 65.61 percent literate respectively.In actual numbers, total literates in Himachal Pradesh stands at 5,104,506 of which males were 2,791,542 and females were 2,312,964
Monday, 8 April 2013
Sangla / Shilon Bagh
Sangla, Himachal Pradesh
The town of Sangla is located in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The town of Sangla is located in the Baspa valley, which is a very picturesque location in the state. This town is located at a distance of around 2700 metres, and it is located near the Baspa River. This makes the setting all the more beautiful, thus making Sangla an ideal summer holiday destination.
There are many places that you can visit during your trip to the town of Sangla. The main tourist attraction in this region is the Kamru Fort, which is an old fort that has now been converted into a Hindu temple. This fort houses a temple that is dedicated to the main deity Goddess Kamakshi Devi. The temple has an image of the chief goddess in the third floor, and the ground floor is occupied by a huge statue of Lord Buddha. This site draws a lot of tourists throughout the year, and many pilgrims also flock to this temple in order to see the exquisite architecture of the fort. You can also visit the Bering Nag temple that is located in the region, and a Buddhist Monastery that is located in the town is also very popular among tourists. Buddhist Monastery, Sangla |
Sangla is very popular for its varied influence, of which Buddhism is a primary one. This monastery is a popular tourist attraction in this region
Shilon Bagh
, Himachal Pradesh
Shilion Bagh is a small place that is located high amidst the hills in the state of Himachal Pradesh. There are many beautiful orchards and plantations that dot the countryside and this is a perfect place to get away from crowded tourist centers of the state. It is conveniently located close to Shimla and is a perfect place for a day trip; it is also possible to stay in the town, as there are a few hotels and resorts here as well.
There are many towns that are located nearby and these are easily accessible from Shilion Bagh. One can visit the place Bhimkali Temple that is located in Sarahan which is on the Indo-Tibet road. The temple is located at an altitude of 2673 meters and has a spectacular view of the surrounding valleys and it is only around 20 km away.
Another shrine called the Giriganga is located around seven kilometers away and this can be reached either on foot or by jeep. Kotgarh is a place that is 17 km away and one can find many orchards of apricot and apples. Narkanda offers breathtaking views of many snow clad mountains and peaks. There are many temples that are located at a place called Chindi, on the Shimla highway.
Walking is the best way to explore the natural beauty of Shilon Bagh. There are many unexplored woods and hidden groves that tourists can visit here.
Trekking is one of the most popular activity tourists can enjoy in and around Shilon Bagh. Shilon Bagh also has numerous trekking options available. One can chose from short to long duration treks like going to the nearby temple or exploring the village in vicinity.
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