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Himachal Tour Packages
Tourist Attraction in Himachal Pradesh unending natural beauty, pleasing
climate and friendly people is a paradise on earth. A tourist will find so
many Himachal Pradesh Tourist Attractions that it will take a long time to visit all
the destinations. Each and every district has several fine tourism sites in its
kitty, which attract people all around the world. The most popular and
frequently visited tourist areas in Himachal Pradesh are:Kasauli, Chail, Shimla,
Manali, Dharamshala.
Kasauli
Kasauli

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Kasauli is a popular hill station located in the district of Solan in the sate of
Himachal Pradesh. Situated at an elevation of around 1800 mt above sea level,
this place finds mention in one of the great Indian epics, the Ramayana.
The destination received its name from a mountain stream flowing between
Jabli and Kasauliknown as Kausalya. Situated amidst nature, the town is also
known for attractions that include the Christ Church, Monkey Point, Kasauli
Brewery, Baba Balak Nath Temple.
Dagshai
Dagshai which is located in the Shivalik foothills at an elevation of 1828.8 mt
above sea level, is one of the oldest British cantonments in India. Beautiful
schools dating back to 1876 are located here. The place also has historical
importance as several battles were fought here. It was underthe rule of the
Maharaja of Patiala before it was passed on to the British for the

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establishment of military stations. One of the prominent tourist attractions
here is the Roman Catholic Church along with a graveyard of British soldiers
who lived in the cantonment area.
Monkey Point
Monkey Point which is situated at a distance of about 4 km from the town bus
stand is the highest peak of Kasauli. The place offers a perfect view of the
Sutlej River, Chandigarh and the snow capped ChoorChandni Peak, the tallest
peak of the Lower Himalayan region.
A temple situated on the peak, dedicated to the Hindu monkey-god,
Hanuman, attracts visitors to the place. The place is named so after the
presiding deity of this temple. The temple is said to enshrine the foot prints of
the deity. The entire area of Monkey Point is under the control of the Indian
Air Force and tourists have to seek permission from authorities in order to
visit this place.

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Chail
Chail Palace Hotel
A quick getaway that you’re looking for in north India, then there are quite a
few places in Himachal Pradesh which can make for a good, affordable holiday
for the entire family. One such place is Chail – the summerretreat of the
Maharaja of Patiala.
About 7 hours drive away from the sweltering summer heat of Delhi, lies the
winding stretch to Chail. Cushionedbetween the rolling hills of the Shivalik
range, the entire length of road has thick forests of Deodar and Pine trees.
While tourist season is in summer, a holiday in this area during winter would
be quite another experience, considering it snows in these parts.

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At Chail the place to stay in is the famous Chail Royal Palace built on Rajgarh
hill. It was converted into a hotel by Himachal Pradesh tourism sometime in the
seventies. The original palace built in 1891 was devastated in a fire, and the
palace was shifted to this somewhat plain grey stone structure in 1951. Since
the time that the palace was converted into a hotel, it has undergone a lot of
renovation despite which, the interiors retain their grandeur.
Kali ka tibba
Chail is one of the famous tourist spot, an agreeable Hindu religious
destination at an extreme height. With a temple of Kali Devi presiding as the
main deity over the area, the place has attracted both the tourists and locals.

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Located on the apex of the mountain named after the Rajmata’s cottage-
Blossom, the place gives a panoramic view of the venerable Shivalik Range
and the mighty Choor Chandnipeak. One can always trek up to the temple, as
the way up offers some good sights.
The temple known as the Sidh temple was renovated 4 years back. The plan
was laid by Shri. Shambhu Bharti, a former pujari of Sidh Temple. Pawan
Sharma, the priest of Kali Devi temple tells us, “The difficulties were
countless, as it’s built in the national park.” Kali Devi is built on the third
hillock, with the backdrop of snow clad Himalayas. Another must see sight is
the royal palace built back in 1891 by Maharaja BhupinderSingh when he was
expelled from Shimla by the Britishers which overlook ChoorChandni, Solan,
Rajgarh, Shimla, Kasauli and Kandaghat.
The temple can be reached by half an hourdrive from Chail through the
Gauda road and for those adventure seekers who like the adrenaline rush, the
2 hour trek from Chail is favored. One can also hire cabs usually available at
Chail for Rs. 250. Kali ka tibba not only provides one with spiritual peace but
even a bounty of nature and divinity at its best!

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Apart from thick deodar forests, panoramic views, a wildlife sanctuary and a
sprawling palace hotel called the Chail Palace, the hill town of Chail in
Himachal Pradesh also has the highest cricket ground in the world, the legacy
of BhupinderSingh, a former maharaja of Patiala. At Sadhupul, 16km from
Chail, picnic on the banks of the Ashniriver. The view of the Dhauladhar
range and the Choor Chandnipeak from Kali ka Tibba is spectacular.
Shimla
Kalka Shimla Railway Overview

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Experience an enchanting journey by boarding the UNESCOrecognised Kalka
Shimla Railway! Connecting the history-rich town of Kalka with India's finest
hill station- Shimla, this route offers some of the most breathtaking sights of
the country.
The route, which measures 96 km in length, was laid by the British in the year
1903 to gain access to Shimla, the erstwhile summercapital. Kalka Shimla
Railway's inclusion in the UNESCOWorld Heritage Site's list on July 8, 2008
is one of the main events in its history.
As the train chugs along the route on a 2 ft 6 in (762 mm) narrow gauge track,
stunning locales encompassed by towering forested mountains arrest the
attention of passengers. It passes through 20 stations, 102 tunnels and 864
bridges, and between every two stations, two tunnels and two bridges, there is
boundless natural beauty to behold! The three-stage Arch Gallery (Bridge No.
493), Bridge No. 226 (5 tier galleries of multiple spans) and the longest tunnel
in Barog are some of the stupendous architectural feats that add uniqueness to
the route.

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Right from start to end, this train journey visually delights every passenger on
board. Dharampur, Solan, Kandaghat, Taradevi, Barog, Salogra and Totu
(Jutogh) are some of the beautiful destinations that you get to see through the
glass panels of the coaches, during the journey.
The trains operating in the route are loaded with superior features. Shivalik
Deluxe, the first super-fast train has wall to wall carpeting, reversible chairs,
on-board catering services and bigger windows for better views. Some trains
feature a Deluxe Rail Motor Car, which can accommodate a group of 14 at a
time.
This coach is equipped with altimeter, transparent fibre glass roof, cushioned
chairs for ultimate comfort and elegant light fittings. Shivalik Palace Tourist
Coach (RA-4) and the Shivalik Queen (RA-67) are super luxury coaches that
are beautifully decorated and provided with bed, kitchen and dining facilities.
Naldehra Golf Course Overview

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The scenic Naldehra Golf Course, which bears resemblance to the Scottish
links courses, is located about 22 km from Shimla. Measuring 4285 yards, this
Par 68 course boasts of 18 holes, 16 greens and 18 tees. Established in the
early 1900s, underthe supervision of the former viceroy of India, Lord
Curzon, this golf course initially had 9 holes, and is known to be one of the
oldest in India.
Perched 2,200 m above sea level, Naldehra is one of the country's most
challenging golf courses. It covers a long sloping glade and is surrounded by
countless Deodar trees from all sides. Bewitched by the boundless beauty of
the golf club, Lord Curzon named his third daughter as Alexandra Naldehra.
Within the boundaries, the golf course has a stylish club house that features
three double rooms and a comfortable drawing room. Open for members as
well as non-members, this club house is available on prior booking.
Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex
Overview

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Located in the heart of Shimla, on Mall Road, Gaiety Heritage Cultural
Complex is a significant tourist hot spot. Opened on the 30th of May in 1887,
this historic cultural centre was designed by Henry Irwin. The building's
exquisite Gothic style of architecture is a true manifestation of Victorian
artistry.
Initially, it was a five-story building with a theatre, ballroom, armoury, police
office, bar and galleries. After nearly two decades from its date of
establishment, it was found that the building was structurally unsafe. It was
partially demolished, but the Gaiety theatre remained untouched.
The most popular attraction in this complex is the Victorian theatre where
legends like Rudyard Kipling, Prithvi Raj Kapoor, Baten Powel, K. L. Sehgal
and others have performed. More than a century-old symbol of art and culture
– the Gaiety is primarily known for its social club.
With an array of venues, including exhibition hall, art gallery, multi-purpose
hall, amphitheatre and old theatre hall, this is the hub of performing arts in

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the state. The complex witnesses a huge influx of visitors year-round due to its
cultural prominence.
Green Valley Overview
Oozing boundless beauty, Green Valley is a natural dale near Kufri in Shimla.
It is surroundedby verdant hills that are covered with dense forests of pine
and deodar. Sometimes rare animals like Yaks can be seen wandering and
grazing here. It is a popular point where people come to witness and enjoy the
picturesque lush green environs.
Indian Institute of Advanced Study
Overview

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A residential centre for higher education, the Indian Institute of Advanced
Study (IIAS), is located on Observatory hill – one of the seven hills of Shimla.
Formed in 1964, this institute was formally inaugurated by Dr. S.
Radhakrishnan – the former President of India on 20th October 1965.
The history of this learning centre is more than 100 years old. IIAS was
originally built as home for Lord Duffein, who was the Viceroy of India during
the years 1884 and 1888.
It was known as the Visceregal Lodge at that time. Many historic decisions,
including the Shimla Conference of 1945 and the Separation of Pakistan and
East Pakistan in 1947, have been taken in this building.
Post-independence, the edifice was renamed as 'Rashtrapati Nivas' and was
used by the President of India as a summerretreat. It was later converted into
a research centre for Indian culture, religion, humanities and social and
natural sciences. The architectural beauty of the building is quaint and
captivating.

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Henry Irwin, an architect in Public Works Department, designed the building.
The use of grey stone and exotic Burmese teak gives this heritage building an
exquisite look that mesmerises onlookers at the very first glance. A beautiful
garden and well-stocked museum are also located within the campus.
Jakhu Temple Overview
Nestling atop Jhakhu Hill, the Jhakhu Temple is one of Shimla's popular
places of religious importance. It is situated 2.5 km away from the ridge, at an
elevation of 8000 ft above sea level. Tourists either can walk up to the temple
from the ridge or can hire a pony or taxi. This ancient shrine was built by a
sage named Yaaku and is dedicated to the Hindu deity Hanuman.
There are a numberof legends associated with the origin of the temple, one of
which states that Lord Hanuman stopped at the Jhakhu Hill when he was
looking for Sanjeevani herb. He met sage Yaaku on the hilltop and then moved
ahead in his journey.

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The intricate carvings and paintings on the walls of this religious edifice testify
the expertise of architects and artisans. The 108 feet high idol of Lord
Hanuman is the major highlight of the temple. Dussehra is one of the most
important festivals celebrated here. The shrine witnesses a huge influx of
devotees every year due to its antiquity and religious prominence.
Kali Bari Temple Overview
Just one km away from Mall Road- the central hub of Shimla, the ancient Kali
Bari Temple is a place worth visiting. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is also
known as Devi Shyamala, this religious edifice is visited by countless devotees
every year.It was built in the year 1845 amidst rolling hills of Shimla, which
oozes beauty at every turn. Legends have it that it is from the name of Goddess
Shyamala, the name of the hill station – 'Shimla' has been derived.
Kufri Overview

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Kufri, nestling 8000 ft above sea level, is a small hill station in Shimla district.
It is located at a distance of 16 km from central Shimla, on NH-22. The scenic
environs and snow-capped landscapes attract tourists from all parts of the
country and abroad. Nature does its best in Kufrito amaze onlookers at every
turn.
This picturesque destination has various places of interest, each of which is
worth visiting. During winters, hills in Kufriserve as popular spots for skiing.
The highest peak in Kufri – Mahasu Peak is covered with thick forests and is
another tourist hot spot. The hill station also has a Himalayan Nature Park,
which serve as home to several common and rare animal species like hangal,
brown bear and Himalayan Monal – the state bird of Himachal Pradesh.
Other important attractions here include the Chini Bungalow – known for its
architecture and statues, and KufriFun World – a happening amusement
park.

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Listed among India's top travel destinations, Kufri boasts of an assorted
selection of hotels ranging from luxury to budget. Do splurge at least once or
twice at Kufri's best restaurants like Kufri Holiday resort and Snow Shelter
Hotel.
Christ Church Overview
Christ Church is the second oldest Roman Catholic Shrine in North India and
the oldest in Shimla. Col. J. T. Boileau initiated the construction of the shrine
in 1844, which was completed in 1846. The cathedral was consecrated on 10th
January 1857 by BishopWilson of Calcutta.
Showing off brilliant Neo-Gothic style of architecture, this church has
attracted and continues to attract thousands of visitors every year. The nave
and chancel of this church are exquisite. The floor is decorated by one central
and two side aisles that are flanked with pews.
In the year 1860, Colonel Dumbleton contributed a clock that accentuates the

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beauty of the church even today. Five exquisite stained glasses in the church
represent the Christian Virtues of Faith. You will be amazed to know that the
church's Pipe Organ, built in the year 1899, is the biggest in Indian
Subcontinent. Paintings and batiks that portray scenes from Jesus Christ's life
are otherimpressive features of the Church.
Heavy snowfall causeda lot of damage to the shrine, dismantling its pinnacles
and corroding its walls, in the year 1961. However, it still stands with beatific
elegance, owing to considerable restoration and regular maintenance. If you
are in search of a serene spot to meditate, pray and relax, this church will be a
perfect place of repose.
Prospect Hill Overview
Prospect Hill, one of the seven hills of Shimla, is located approximately 4 km
away from the city. It lies on Kamna Devi Temple Road at an elevation of
about 2150 m above sea level. It is graced with lush green forests that feature
assorted flora mainly deodar, oats, pines and rhododendrons. The view of
Tara Devi and southern Shimla from the hill is mesmerising.

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Apart from the famous Hindu shrine- Kamna Devi Temple, there are a good
numberof picnic spots in Prospect Hill. For adventure-seekers, this hill offers
many exciting activities like trekking and rock-climbing. The extraordinary
sight of sunset and moonrise at the same time is one of the major highlights.
Shaily Peak Overview
Located 23 km away from Naldehra near Mahakali Lake, the Shaily Peak is
one of the most beautiful attractions in Shimla. Its 8 km steep course from
Khatnol (the base) to the peak attracts countless adventure seekers every year.
Dense forests and rocky trails adorn this peak.
Jubbal Palace Overview

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Lovers of history and architecture will love to visit the beautiful Jubbal Palace.
It nestles approximately 7000 feet above the sea level, amidst rolling hills that
are covered with dense forests of pine and cedar.
Located favourably on Raj Bhawan Road, this heritage site is just 5.8 km away
from the heart of the city and is easily accessible. The presence of terraced
gardens and deliberately trimmed Virginia vines within the complex greatly
accentuates the exquisiteness of the palace.
Raja Rana Sir Bhagat Chandra demolished the original Victorian structure in
1938. Later, on the same site a summerpalace was built in a unique blend of
Indian and Chinese architecture styles. The exteriors flaunt exquisite features
like an elaborate citadel and walls with convolutedartistry. In the interiors,
visitors will find intricately carved structures of timber, suspendedattics and
signed photographs and paintings of eminent people.
The royal family of Jubbal lived here until 1977 when Raj Kumar Uday Singh –
Raja Rana Sir Bhagat Chandra's grandson, converted a part of this palace into
a heritage hotel. The hotel, named as Woodville Palace Hotel, is known to offer
royal suites with luxury amenities.

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Manali
Solang Valley
Solang Valley is a side valley at the top of the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh,
India 14 km northwest of the resort town Manali on the way to Rohtang Pass,
and is known for its summerand winter sport conditions. The sports most
commonly offered are parachuting, paragliding, skating and zorbing. ...
Solang Valley Overview

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Solang Valley is quiet and is best approached by road. The drive up to Solang
is extremely picturesque. Once you are there, try out some Chinese foodfrom
the local roadside shacks, and enjoy the views. The road ahead is blocked since
a tunnel to Koksar(a village ahead of Rohtag La) is now being built there.
Old Manali Overview

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Swaying eucalyptus, lovely roads, sweet little eateries, small kitschy market
places, and cafes that serve your favourite continental food at unbelievably low
prices, the serenity of Old Manali is only disturbed by twittering birds and the
soundof the gushing waters of the Kullu River.
Naggar Castle Overview
An important tourist spot around Manali, Naggar Castle is an ancient palace
dating back to the 15th century. It boasts of impressive architecture and also
houses a gallery of paintings of the remarkable Russian artist, Nicholas
Reorich.
Manu Temple Overview

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A famous and significant pilgrimage spot, the Manu Temple is the only temple
in India for Lord Manu, the legendary sage who stayed in this area.
The town of Manali derives its name from Lord Manu. Manali is believed to be
the abode of Manu, the great sage who is credited for having formed the first
laws of Hindu mythology. It is believed that after saving mankind from the
great flood, Manu somehow landed in Manali and started living here.
The Manu Temple is situated a mere 3 kilometres away from the main market
of the old Manali region.
Tibetan Monasteries Overview

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One of the most fascinating aspects of Manali is the fact that it has several
colourful monasteries. These monasteries serve not only as a place of worship
but also as guardians of the rich culture and history of the Tibetan people
settled in Kullu and Manali.
The two most important monasteries that draw a huge numberof tourists to
Manali from across the globe are the Gadhan Thekchoking Gompa and the
Himalayan Nyingamapa Gompa. You can shop for beautiful handicrafts that
are made by Tibetan people at these monasteries.
Club House Overview

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The Manali Club House is maintained by the Himachal Tourism Development
Corporation. It is one of the best centres of recreation in Manali. Located at
the foothills of old Manali town, the Club House offers alluring views of the
lush green surroundings.
You can enjoy various indoor and outdoor games at the Club House by paying
nominal charges. Some of the games and facilities at the Club House include
an auditorium, billiards room, library, roller skating rink, carom room, bar
and restaurant.
Rohtang Pass/Snow Point Overview

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Rohtang Pass is a very beautiful and popular spot in Manali with more than 25
lakh visitors every year. In winter, the mountains at the Rohtang Pass are
completely covered in snow and it is impossible to get there. Hence, the pass
remains closed during winters (from October) and generally opens again in
May.
In May, Rohtang becomes a place for nature enthusiasts and adventure
seekers. The snow-coveredmountains provide the perfect opportunity to go
skiing and snow scooter riding. Take your family to this wonderful place and
enjoy some quality time together.
Hadimba Temple Overview

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The 15th-century Hadimba Temple was built to commemorate Hadimba Devi,
from the Indian spiritual epic Mahabharata. What’s equally striking is the
cedar forest that surrounds the temple, which adds to its earthy appeal
Vashist Temple & Water Springs Overview
Dedicated to the local deity and sage by the same name, Saint Vashist, the
Vashist Temple on the banks of River Ravi is worth a stop. The temple

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showcases lovely wood carvings. The real attraction here is the therapeutic hot
springs that are piped and cemented to make for a public bath.
Monasteries Overview
When in Manali, visit the Buddhist monasteries that have been set uphere by
the Tibetans and other followers of Buddhism. The monasteries offer tranquil
surroundings and are also an excellent place to witness the Buddhist culture.
Popular monasteries include the Manali Gompa, Gadhan Thekchoking Gompa
and the Himalayan Nyingamapa Gompa.
Manikaran Gurudwara Overview

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"Manikaran Gurudwara, located in the small town of Manikaran, is one of the
most prominent places of worship for Sikhs. Also known as Sri Guru Nanak
Dev Ji Gurudwara, this shrine was built at the site where Guru Nanak Dev Ji
came with his disciple Bhai Mardana for the welfare of the people. On his
arrival, Bhai Mardana arranged some pulses and flour from the local people
for langar. However, he could not arrange fire to cook the food. It was then
that Guru Nanak Dev Ji asked him to remove a stone from the spot where he
was sitting. The disciple did the same and was amazed to see an eruption of a
spring of hot water. Guruji advised him to take the name of Almighty and
donate prasada (food) he prepared from this hot water among the people.
River Beas Overview

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"The Beas River, also known as Vipasha in Sanskrit, flows in Himachal
Pradesh and Punjab. From its originating point (4361 m) in the Himalayas,
this holy river passes through lush evergreen forests and hills before reaching
Punjab. Here, it embraces the Satluj River and finally enters the territory of
Pakistan, covering a total length of around 470 km. The river is the main
drinking water source of the population living in Kullu, Mandi and Kangra
regions.
The river bears testimony of many documented and undocumentedhistorical
events. It was the eastern limit of Alexander the Great's invasion of India in
326 BC. The tranquil environs of the river and riversides have incited many
great sages, including Vashisht, Narad, Vishwamitra, Vyas, Prashar and
Parshuram to meditate in the ancient times. Even today, the River Beas
reflects the same charm, attracting tourists and pilgrims from different parts
of the country to pay it a visit once in their lifetime.

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Rozy Falls Overview
A visit to Rozy Falls gives one the opportunity to spend moments of repose in
Mother Nature's lap. The forested mountains and vast green valleys encircling
the waterfall form a truly sensational backdrop. The awesome sight of Rozy
Falls' white waters disgorging from a towering height creates precious and
unforgettable memories on the minds of every onlooker. A visit to Rozy Falls is
a must to make oneself believe that nature, indeed, can be this expressive! The
best time to visit the falls is during the monsoons, when rain water fills the
river and the waterfall grows to its maximum size.
Solang Nullah Overview

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Solang Nullah is a beautiful stream flowing through snow-coveredmountain
peaks, lofty trees and wild flowers in the Solang Valley. A serene place to
spend moments of repose, Solang Nullah is the place where you find nature in
its most artistic form. For family picnics, this site is no doubt, the ultimate
place.
Van Vihar National Park Overview

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Van Vihar National Park is one of the most frequentedattractions in Manali.
Located favourably on the Mall Road, this park is populated with many deodar
trees that provide shade to the whole area. For the convenience of visitors, the
park is provided with concrete as well as wooden benches. It is an ideal place
for enjoying picnics and spending moments of repose with your loved ones. Its
well-laid paths are perfect for a long and refreshing stroll amid lush greenery.
In addition to these, visitors can indulge in boat rides in the park's small pond
Dharamshala
Dal Lake Overview

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This beautiful lake is set amidst lush green Deodar forests at an altitude of
1,775 metres and exudes transcendence in peaceful surroundings.
Located at a distance of 2 kilometres away from McLeodganj Market, Dal Lake
is just a walk away and also happens to be a major attraction for trekkers as it
serves as a base camp for several trekking expeditions. But if you don’t want to
walk all the way, you can also go by car or taxi.
The lake is also known for a popular temple of Lord Shiva that’s located on its
banks.
Kangra Fort Overview

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The Kangra Fort is a majestic sample of architecture, which was constructed
by the royal family of Kangra and dates back to around4th Century B.C. This
is known to be the largest fort in the Himalayas and is one of the oldest forts in
India.
This ancient fort is located about 20 kilometres away from Dharamshala and
houses a few temples that can be accessed by passing through seven gates. A
major tourist attraction at the Kangra Fort is the magnificent view of the
Manjhi and Banganga rivers from here.
Right next to the Fort is also the Maharaja Sansar ChandKatoch Museum,
which is run by the Royal Family of Kangra.
Bhagsunag Falls Overview

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Also called Bhagsu Falls, this site houses the famous Bhagsunath Temple,
dedicated to Lord Shiva. This is a famous tourist attraction and also an
important place for Hindu pilgrims.
The cascading waterfalls, about 20 metres in height, are an absolute marvel to
look at, especially during the monsoons. There is a nice cafeteria next to the
falls and the area serve as an excellent picnic spot for tourists. Bhagsunag Falls
are located about 2 kilometres away from McLeodganj and are best visit while
on a trek, although you can also drive up to Bhagsu village.
Kangra Art Museum Overview

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The Kangra Art Museum is a fascinating museum displaying artifacts from
Tibetan and Buddhist cultures. Inaugurated in 1990, the museum has
preserved a treasure trove from Kangra valley’s cultural past, crafts, arts and
other ancient artifacts including miniature paintings, temple carvings, fabrics
and embroidery, weapons, and palanquins belonging to local royalty.
It has a collection of rare pottery, coin memorabilia, sculptures and
anthropological materials. It showcases jewelry of various tribes, embroidered
costumes and wooden carvings. Some of the items displayed in the museum
go back to 5th century. A section in the museum is also dedicated to
contemporary artists and photographers.
Located close to the bus station in Dharamshala, you can spend about an hour
exploring the museum.
Gyuto Monastery Overview

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One of the most famous monasteries in Tibet, the Gyuto Monastery is known
for its study of Tantric meditation, Tantric ritual arts and Buddhist
philosophy. It was founded in Tibet in 1474 by the main disciple of the first
Dalai Lama, Jetsun Kunga Dhondup. After the communist Chinese invasion in
1959, the monastery was re-establishedin India.
The monks here practice the major Tantric texts including Guhyasamaja,
Chakrasamvara and Yamantaka. They have passed these lineages on to the
youngergeneration of monks for more than 500 years.
The main chamber of the monastery has a majestic statue of the Buddha and
with the backdrop of the snow-clad mountains, this is an extremely serene and
peaceful place to spend an afternoon.
Norbulingka Institute Overview

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Norbulingka Institute was foundednear Dharamshala in 1988 for preserving
Tibetan culture, literature and art. The institute is named after Norbulingka,
the summerresidence of the Dalai Lamas in Lhasa, Tibet.
The institute primarily works towards carrying on Tibetan traditions and
heritage by providing training, education and employment to Tibetans in the
region. Norbulingka produces high quality art objects, clothing and home
furnishings.
The institute also has the two-storeyed 'Seat of Happiness Temple' (Deden
Tsuglakhang) set amidst the Japanese inspired Norbulingka gardens. It is
especially known for its 1,173 murals of Buddha, frescoes of all the Dalai
Lamas and drawings from the life of the 14th Dalai Lama.
You can take a free guided tour of the institute on any day except on Sunday.
Those interested in studying the Tibetan arts can also enroll into short-term
workshops here. Norbulingka’s art studios include Tibetan statue making,
Thangka painting, screen-printing, applique and tailoring, woodcarving, wood
painting, papermaking, and wood and metal craft.

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Jwalamukhi Devi Temple Overview
Jwalamukhi is one of the most renowned ancient temples of Goddess Durga. It
is believed that Sati's tongue fell here and the goddess is manifest as small
blue flames that burn through fissures in the old rock.
There is no idol is located in the temple and Jwalamukhi, or the deity of
flaming mouth, is worshipped in the form of flames coming out of the rock.
There is a small platform in front of the temple and a huge brass bell that was
presented by the King of Nepal. The temple also has a mystic Yantra or
diagram of the goddess, which is covered with, shawls and ornaments.
The puja in the temple goes on almost the whole day with the aarti being
performed five times in a day, and the havan once.
The temple has the most beautiful location with the Dhauladhar range in the
backdrop. It is foundon a small offshoot on the Dharamshala-Shimla road
about 20 kilometres from the Jwalamukhi Road Railway Station. Jwalamukhi
temple is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas and thousands of pilgrims visit the
temple every year to seek the blessings of the goddess.

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Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts
Overview
The Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) is responsible for preserving
and promoting Tibet’s unique tradition of performing arts. After the Chinese
occupation, His Holiness the Dalai Lama felt it was important to safeguard the
traditional performing arts of Tibet so that they are not lost forever.
That is why TIPA, which was established in August 1959, has been spreading
awareness and engagement around Tibetan culture and civilization. The
institute has many members, including artistes, instructors, administrative
staff and craftsmen, all of whom live on the institute’s premises.
One of the major highlights of the institute is the annual Shoton Opera
Festival, which is a 9-day long celebration of Traditional Tibetan Opera or
Lhamo. One Lhamo performance lasts up to 6 hours.

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Apart from the performances, the institute also has a research section that is
responsible for documenting and archiving the literature, picture, audio as
well as visual components of Tibetan Operatic culture, dance and music.
Naam Art Gallery Overview
This is a great place for art lovers, located about 32 kilometres away from the
town. The gallery was opened by Elizabeth Buschmann from Germany, and
displays paintings by her as well as A.W. Hallett, an English painter.
While Buschmann uses watercolours and acrylics, Hallett’s works are made
using oil paints. Hallett died in 1986, and a large numberof his are owned by
the Himachal Pradesh Government. You can also buy paintings here or even
order them online if you like.
Tea Gardens Overview

44.
The Kangra Valley in Himachal is known for its beautiful natural landscapes and
the spectacular range of Dhauladhar. In the foothills of this region you will
find India’s smallest tea region.
Spread over acres of land, the tea gardens are a scenic natural site. While there
isn’t much to do here, you can easily spend a couple of hours here just soaking
in the peaceful environment. You can also pick up some fresh mountain tea
from here.
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