Monday 30 October 2017

Set on the upper hilly terrains of Kangra valley, Dharamshala is one of the most travelled destinations in Himachal Pradesh. The beautiful hill station serves as the residence of the Tibetan leader Dalai Lama. 
Dharamshala region of Himachal Pradesh is cosily nestled in the Dhauladhar ranges of the Himalayas.  The famous holiday destination of Himachal Pradesh is an amazing mix of snowy peaks, deodar and pine forests.
Upper Dharamshala is also known as Little Lhasa, mainly because of the inhabitation of large number of Tibetans here. Tourists from different corners of the world spend time strolling in the bustling Tibetan market or munching in lip-smacking meals.
There are other spiritual shrines in Dharamshala like Bhagsunag Temple, Kunal Pathri, Tsechokling Gompa and Namgyal Monastery.
Take a walk in the Tea Gardens for rejuvenation and freshness. Trekkers can make the most of their adventure by trekking to Triund, the jewel of Dharamshala. If you are looking for Yoga and meditation, finding a centre for the same won’t be bothersome here.
Dharamshala boasts of an International Cricket Stadium, which has hosted many international and IPL cricket matches. The Dharamshala International Film Festival (DIFF) is held every year, in the month of November.
How to Reach
By Road
There are a number of bus services available from all major cities of Himachal Pradesh to reach Dharamshala. Destinations like Pathankot (88km), Jalandhar (193km), Amritsar (200km), Shimla (241km) and Delhi (490km) are directly connected to the city via state buses.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Dharamshala is Pathankot railway station, which is set at a distance of around 85km. Further, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Dharamshala.
By Air
Located at a distance of 15 km from Dharamshala, Gaggal is the nearest airport. Regular flights operate from Delhi, Kullu and Chandigarh to Dharamshala. Taxi services are available from airport to reach Dharamshala.
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Dharamshala,Himachal pradesh,India

Saturday 28 October 2017

Kasol is a village in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Elevation of Kasol is 1560 meters, making it a scenic beauty. From past couple of year place is more recognized as tourist hub because of its weather, near treks and hashish! Spots like Chhalal, Rasol, Manikaran, Malana, Tosh, Pulga, Khir Ganga are nearby treks from Kasol. 
A two hour drive from Manali, the village, which was always popular with backpackers, has now become a major hub for visitors who want to escape the crowds. The place dotted with bakeries, restaurants, cafes and pocket-friendly guesthouses.
Most hill stations have a similar kind of a beauty, but what sets Kasol apart is the fact that it’s not only a place filled with nature but also home to thousands of innocent hearts who dwell there.
From mouth watering cafes, to the spine-tingling sight of the flowy rivers and silent mountains, Kasol is usually a stop for everyone. This place is rich amongst tourists for shopping as one can find plenty of traditional and ethnic items and can blend in with the taste of the Himachal.
The village has a peaceful aura about it. Tourists can go for river rafting, trout fishing, trekking or just choose to relax and chill in the lap of nature.
Kasol is not only about the scenic valleys or the small hush-bush population but the serenity, the piousness of the untouched hills. So, this summer, get yourself drenched in the Kasol-ian sun and  adventure lying hidden amidst the picturesque valleys and mountains.
How to reach
By Air
Almost 31 Kms away, Bhuntar Airport located near Kullu is the nearest airport to the village. It is connected to three cities Delhi, Pathankot and Shimla. You can hire local cabs or private vehicles from there to reach Kasol.
By Road
The HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) runs regular buses from neighbouring states of Delhi, Haryana and Punjab. In the state itself they run to and fro from cities of pathankot, Shimla, Kangra, Solan and Dharamsala.
By Train
Pathankot serves as the nearest railhead at a distance of almost 150 Km, while Chandigarh about 310 Km away is another option you can opt for. Taxis or private vehicles can be hired from here as well to reach Kasol.
Book your Kasol holidays with our affiliate partner Booking.com

Kasol,Himachal pradesh,India

Friday 27 October 2017

Kunzum Pass is a name among the several high altitude passes amidst the Himalayan peaks. It lies at a height of 4,590 m or 15,060 ft and offers a stunning view of numerous Chandra-Bhaga range peaks at the top. 
The Kunzum Pass separates Spiti and Lahaul Valley and is situated at a higher altitude than Rohtang Pass. It is one of the most popular and widely used passes by tourists visiting Lahaul, Spiti, and Manali.
This pass remains open merely 3 to 4 months in a year from late June to late September or early October. It is at an approximate distance of 95 kilometers from Kaza, headquarters of Spiti valley, and 125 kilometers from Manali.
At the top of the pass lies a temple dedicated to Goddess Durga and it is considered auspicious to do parikrama of the temple and get blessings before going further in the journey. It is actually quite a sight at the top with beautiful and colorful Buddhist flags fluttering amidst the snow capped peaks. A little further from the top, towards Batal, lies the 14 kilometers long road to the beautiful and mesmerizing Chandrataal. There is also a 9 kilometers trek to Chandrataal from the top of Kunzum Pass.
Goddess Kunjum (Durga/Parvati) lives in a sanctuary on the Kunzum top and keeps protect over the pass and wards of the malice. Guests normally do a round around the sanctuaries to look for favors. 
Most travelers travel through the Kunzum Pass, only a few hours will be enough for you to enjoy this destination of Himachal Pradesh to the fullest.
How to reach
By Air
The nearest airport is at Bhuntar town, 50 km south of Manali and 170 km from Kunzum Pass. Indian Airlines and some private airlines operate regular flights to Manali. From Manali one take bus or hire jeep for Kunzum Pass.
By Train
Joginder Nagar is nearest railway station, 50 km away from Kunzum Pass. Joginder Nagar is a narrow gauge railway station. Chandigarh and Ambala are better connected.
By Road
Kunzum Pass can be reached from Delhi and Chandigarh by bus via Manali. It is 127 km from Manali. Himachal State road Transport Corporation operates regular bus service from Delhi, Lucknow and Chandigarh for Manali.
Book your Kunzum Pass holidays with our affiliate partner Booking.com

Kunzum Pass,Himachal pradesh,India

Thursday 26 October 2017

Banjar is a little village in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. One must first reach Bahu which is 61 kilometers away from Kullu, but this journey takes about two or three hours because of the hilly terrain. 
You are rewarded with the beautiful view of the Shrikhand Mahadev - a very famous peak in the Himalayan ranges. There are some cozy huts in Banjar but one has to make reservations from before.
The beauty of this place is of the untouched and remote kind which gives you a feeling of being one with nature. It is the gateway to the Great Himalayan National Park and lies on the road from Shimla to Manali.
You have to cross the Jalori pass at 10,240 ft to reach the Banjar Valley. As this pass is not very high it is accessible even in winters.
The road near Jalori pass had some sharp bends and is unpaved at certain places. So, in winter this road can be sliperry and needs some extra expertise to ride through. There are very few tourists and vehicles on this road, so you can enjoy its heavenly beauty as you ride through this area. It snows heavily in Winters, so November to Early December is the best time to Visit Banjar.
Book your Banjar holidays with our affiliate partner Booking.com

Banjar,Himachal pradesh,India

Tuesday 24 October 2017

Among the loftiness of the grand Himalayas and the gushing ambience of the river Beas, Kullu is in the state of Himachal Pradesh and is also called the ‘Valley of Gods’. Previously known as Kulanthpitha, which means 'the end point of the inhabitable world', this wonderful valley has its name in epics such as Ramayana, Mahabharata and Vishnu Purana. 
Being surrounded by majestic hills of Pine and Deodar forest, the region is renowned for holidays and adventure activities.
The valley spreads out its charm on either side of the upper reaches of the river Beas. Running north to south, the main river. The valley is only 80 km long and 2 km at its broadest, yet a fairly wide area is open to the visitors to enjoy the spectacle of variegated mountain scenery.
Being situated in the lower ranges of the Himalayas, the hill station offers a wonderful opportunity to get involved in adventure sports. Adventure sports like trekking and white water rafting in Kullu generates a lot of interest in enthusiasts.
The hill station lies in the northern most side of the Kullu valley. Known for its natural beauty, the place serves as a perfect getaway for the urban tourists. Besides the natural surroundings, Kullu is widely travelled for its temples, which are amongst the most devoted and scared ones.
Kullu is a pleasant tourist destination where one can feel the revitalizing tenderness of Mother Nature. 
How to Reach
By Air
Kullu has an airport of its own, known as Bhunter airport, which is siatuted at a distance of approximately 10 kilometers distance from the main town. Indian Airlines and Jagson Airlines operate flights to places like Delhi and Shimla, round the year. It takes hardly 90 minutes to reach Kullu from Delhi, by air. From the airport, one can easily get taxis fo reaching the main town.
By Rail
Joginder Nagar is the closest railhead from Kullu, situated at the distance of 125 km. Other than this, Pathankot at 285 km, Simla at 270 km, Chandigarh at 267 km, and Kalka are other major railheads near the place that offer excellent traveling facilities. There are regular buses from these places, making it very easy travelers to reach Kullu.
By Road
Kullu is well connected with major cities of the state, along with the nearby ones, like Delhi and Chandigarh. The distance from Delhi is 522 km approximately, with Ambala, Chandigarh, Ropar, Kiratpur, Bilaspur and Mandi as the main stations on the way. Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) provides excellent transportation facility for travelers, along with some private transporters.
Book your Kullu holidays with our affiliate partner Booking.com

Kullu,Himachal pradesh,India

Sunday 22 October 2017

Located in the Kullu region in Himachal Pradesh, Great Himalayan National Park is bestowed with unique ecological aspect nestled in the Western Himalaya. The four valleys of the park are named Sainj Valley, Tirthan Valley, Jiwa Nal Valley and Parvati Valley.
Great Himalayan National Park is home to over 180 bird specials, some rare mammals that include Himalyan Brown Bear, musk deer and snow leopard along with a number of invertebrate, reptiles and rare amphibian species.
Great Himalayan National Park offers plenty of ecotourism activities. From relatively easy walks in ecozone inside the park to relatively easy, moderate and tough trekking trails spanning over several days, there are an array of ecotourism activities to choose from.
Habitat inside this National Park varies from lush Oak, Conifer and Rhododendron forests to alpine meadows and from sweeping valleys and gushing water streams to high altitude glaciers.
Surrounded on three sides by towering Himalayan Mountains, the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) hosts some of the densest population of Himalayan wildlife species.
GHNP offers limited accommodation options. There are 14 guesthouses inside the park. Apart from that, forest guest houses are also available at Aut, Sainj, Sairopa, Banjar and Shangarh.
How to Reach
The starting point for any visit to the GHNP is Kullu town. It is accessible by road and air.
By Air: The nearest airport at Bhuntar, at a distance of 50km. from the park and 10km from Kulu is well connected to the rest of the country. Taxis and buses are available from the airport.
By Rail: The nearest railhead is Joginder Nagar nearly 100km from the park and Chandigarh. This station is well-connected to other parts of the country.
By RoadKulu is well connected to Shimla, Chandigarh, Delhi and Ambala. There are luxury buses available from Kulu to Shimla (240km)and Delhi via Mandi (530 km)and back. From Kulu buses ply through NH # 21via Aut (30km).From Aut the road access to the park is only up to Gushaini or Neuli.  One has to take the eastern divergence at Aut on the Kullu-Manali highway. From the small town of Aut, a roadlink crosses the Beas river into the Banjar valley, where the GHNP islocated. From Larji, 4km from Aut, two routes - one along the Sainj Nala till Neuli (26km) and the other is along Tirthan Nala, upto Gushaini (28km). The park is only accessible by foot.
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Great Himalayan National Park,Himachal pradesh,India

Sunday 8 October 2017

Situated on the Indo-Tibetan border in the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, Lahaul is as remote as it gets making it seem like time has come to a standstill. Straddling the Leh-Manali bus route, Lahaul boasts of scenic mountain villages, pristine mountain rivers and medieval monasteries.
Lahaul and Spiti jointly form a district in Himachal Pradesh with Keylong as the administrative center. The Lahaul Valley region is rightly called as the Barren Splendor of Himachal Pradesh.
The word ‘Lahaul’ is derived from the Tibetan word Lho-yul meaning country in the south or of Lhahi-yul meaning country of the gods. Chandra and Bhaga which originate on either side of the Baralacha La, nourish the Lahaul valley.
The Lahaul plateau is surrounded by the Great Himalayas to the North, the Pir Panjal to the South and the Spiti and Chandra to the East.
Lahaul Valley is a thriving centre of Tibetan Buddhism and home to several Buddhist monasteries which are repositories of culture and art. Lahaul Valley is perfect for hiking, trekking and adventure drives.
Lahual’s snow-covered mountains, lush green fields, milky white rivers and streams, placid lakes and mountain passes, make for a picture perfect location. Its simple rustic charm, festivals, folk dances and culture attracts tourists from all over the world.
How to Reach
By Air
The nearest airport to Lahaul is Buntar airport in Kullu. This airport is well-connected to important cities of India such as Delhi and Chandigarh, through regular flights. The airport is 160 km from Keylong, through Rohtang Pass and it is 40 km from Manali. Private cab/jeep or state-run bus service can be availed to reach Lahaul and Spirit Valley.
BY Rail
Jogindernagar is a narrow gauge railhead the nearest to Lahaul. Chandigarh station is another nearest railway station. From this station, the valley is accessible via Shimla and Manali. Opt for a taxi or a bus to reach your destination.
By Road
There are two highways to reach Lahaul by road. One has to look at the schedule of the roads as one of the highways remains covered by snow half of the year and so is not safe for travelling. Buses are available serving decently to the visitors.

Lahaul ,Himachal pradesh,India

Friday 6 October 2017

Kaza, sitting huddled in the corner of Himachal Pradesh is a tranquil getaway on the plains of the Spiti River. Lapped by majestic mountains covered in snow, meandering and bubbling rivers and streams and picturesque barren landscape with scattered patches of green, Kaza is a dream destination.
It is divided in to two parts: old and new Kaza, each accommodating government offices and king's palace respectively. Monasteries, Gompas and other historic wonders add charm to this already magical city. Today, this city is a wonderful blend of modernity and unique ancient culture that will leave you enchanted with its mystery.
Kaza is perched at a fearsome height of 11,980 ft and is the biggest town of the valley. The town is divided into two parts-Kaza Khas and Kaza Soma; Kaza Soma is where the important administrative buildings are in the new town. It is located 451 km from Shimla and 756 km from Delhi, the capital of India. 
Its mountainous terrain and pristine locales attract visitors who want to indulge in adventurous activities and spiritual well being alike. It is the base camp for trekking, mountaineering and other adventures. Pin-Parvati, Parang-La and Pin-Bhaba are some of the popular trails which start from Kaza. A gentle stroll to villages around Kaza can also be an interesting experience.
Kaza can be accessed from Kinnaur Valley and Lahaul Valley. Though the Kinnaur Valley route remains open throughout the year, the Lahaul Valley route remains open only during summers as the Kunzam Pass closes during winters. Winters in Kaza are severe with the temperature plunging to sub-zero levels. Locals remain within the confines of their households and venture out only if absolutely necessary. The locals stock food supplies to last the winter and utilize their time to produce handcrafts.
With magnificent and magnanimous mountains surrounding the town, Kaza has two access points; one is from Lahaul valley while the other is from Kinnaur valley. The Kinnaur valley route is open all through the year, apart from when there are sporadic landslides or snowfall. 
How to Reach
By Air
The nearest airports to Kaza are Bhuntar which is 250 Km away or Shimla which is at a distance of 445 Km. From there on you can approach Kaza via road from Shimla (May to October) and from Manali (June to October) by hiring a cab.
By Road
The HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) runs buses from Kulu to Kaza via Manali. The bus reaches Manali at almost 4:45 AM and leaves around 5:00 AM to reach Kaza by afternoon or evening depending upon the condition of the road.
By Train
There is no direct rail connectivity to Kaza. Joginder Nagar railway station is the nearest railway station to the site, 365 km away from the same. Regular buses ply between Joginder Nagar and Kaza. Alternatively, you can also hire a cab from Joginder Nagar.
Book your Kaza holidays with our affiliate partner Booking.com

Kaza ,Himachal pradesh,India

Wednesday 4 October 2017

Dhankar is located in the cold desert of Spiti Valley and looks like a bowl-shaped structure in the hills. It looks almost as if all the old Dhankar houses and fort have emerged straight from the mountains with their back wall being merged on the hill.
Dhankar means 'a place in the mountains unreachable for strangers'. This place houses a monastery associated with the Great Translator, Rinchen Zanggpo. 
The beautiful Dhankar Village is one of the most stunning attractions in Lahual and Spiti Valley, a home to the most beautiful and awe-inspiring Dhankar Monastery and Dhankar Fort that are perched on the top of the hill in Dhankar.
Dhankar monastery is one of the highlights of Dhankar, my favorite village in Himachal’s Spiti valley. Located on a mountain spur, this ancient village is home to monks, cattle herders and agriculturalists. It is tucked a bit away from the highway connecting Shimla to Kaza and hence remains fairly untouched by mainstream tourists.
There is no public transport to Dhankar. Either you take your own vehicle, hitchhike on a tractor or walk to Dhankar from the highway down below.
It is a big village and erstwhile capital of Spiti Kingdom. On top of a hill there is a fort, which use to be the prison in olden times. 
How to Reach
By Air - : Shimla is the nearest airport.
By RailNearest rail heads Shimla narrow gauge Kalka broad gauge.
By RoadDhankar is not on a bus route so one has to arrange their own transport or walk from the main road, which is 9-km.away from Dhankar.
Book your Dhankar holidays with our affiliate partner Booking.com

Dhankar,Himachal pradesh,India

Monday 2 October 2017

Kibber is located in the Spiti Valley area of Himachal Pradesh and is one of the highest motor-able village in the world. It is surrounded by scenic mountains clad by snow. Ki Monastery is located in this village and is one of the many touristy places in the village.
It may seem this remote and isolated village of mostly Tibetan Buddhists would be void of many of life’s luxuries but that isn’t true. Electricity, a clean water source, a post office and even a high school keep this agricultural town running. Only a few hundred people inhabit the village, and yet, it’s nearly silent save for a few sounds from individual homes performing daily chores.
Kibber visitors can roam the town in peace while relying on residents to point them in the right direction. English is not widely spoken so you’ll need to use clear enunciation of names or proper hand signals for dialogue.
The harsh landscape of limestone rocks and cliffs in this arid high altitude desert doesn’t deter tourists who come in search of the monastery. Captivating views of the Himalayas certainly aid in building an audience who rarely have a chance to reach such heights by way of a vehicle.
Kibber is considered a cold desert; however agriculture and animal husbandry are the major occupations here. It is said that the economy of the village is based mainly on trade with Ladakh. Barter system is followed between Kibber locals and Ladakhis and often horses are traded for yaks.
Kibber climatic conditions compel villagers to mostly stay indoors during the winters. Villagers stock food to survive in winters and utilize their time inside their home by knitting clothes and making handcraft items.There are no hotels and resorts in Kibber. Locals provide rooms on rent. Homestays are affordable. Don’t expect luxury while staying with the locals. Camping facilities are also available during summer in the village.
HOW TO REACH
By Air : Nearest airport is located in Kullu (230 kms)
By Train: Nearest rail head is located in Shimla (427 kms)
By Auto: A single lane road breaks from the main highway in Kaza. Conditions are favorable in the summer and early fall for cars and bikes. Intermittent closures occur in fall and complete closures in winter for up to 5 months
By Bus: Local HRTC bus service runs daily July – September from Kaza departing in the afternoon, returning the following morning early A.M. from Kibber
By Taxi: Available from Kaza
Book your Kibber holidays with our affiliate partner Booking.com

Kibber,Himachal pradesh,India