Himachal Pradesh
Literally, the abode of snowed hills, Himachal
Pradesh came into existence along with Haryana in 1966, when
the Punjab was reorganized on liguistic basic. Its capital in
Shimla, the summer capital of the country during the Raj, and
climate is quite cold with temperatures fluctuating between
15°C to 3 in summers and 0°C to 15°C in winters.
Principal languages spoken are Pahadi and Hindi. Owing to its
rugged and hilly terrain its area is about 55,673 sq. km. but
population is around 60,77,248. The ideal time to visit this
region is either between April to October and December to Jantiary.
Nestled in the north-west lap of the Great Himalayas, Himachal
Pradesh is bounded by Tibet in the east, Jammu and Kashmir in
the north-west, and by the Punjab in the south-west. The eastern
border is common with the state of Uttar Pradesh. All the famous
towns of the state are like an idyll summer retreat. which include
Shimla, Kangra, Kulu, Manali, Chamba, Chail, Delhousie, Dharamshala,
Solan, Narkanda, Kasauli, Fagu and Naldera. Himachal Pradesh
is also rightly called the Pilgrim Province for its over 6,000
temples dotting the rugged terrain, reflect the deep devotion
and abiding faith of the simple
hill-folk, Agriculture, horticulture and handicrafts are the
main stay of Himachal’ s economy. More than 38 percent
of the area of the state is occupied by forests. The fast fluctuation
in the climatic condition of the land make it an ideal breeding
ground for a variety of fruits and vegetables, its main tourist-centers
are being listed below.
Shimla
Discovered in 1819 by the British, it later
(in 1865) was made summer Capital of India: The Imperial influence
is still apparent in its setting and buildings. After Independence,
Shimla remained the capital of Punjab for sometime until Chandigarh
was founded following the redrawing of Punjab in 1966, and creation
of the new State of Haryana and Himachal Pradesh, Shimla became
the capital of only Himachal Pradesh. Shimla is pleasantly cool
in summer and very cold in winter.
Chandigarh, 120 km. away from Shimla is the nearest airport.
There is a regular air service between Chandigarh and Delhi.
The narrow gauge from Kalka to Shimla takes about 7 hours. Shimla
is just 28 km. from Chandigarh. The train journey to Shimla
is quite a fun as the time train serpentines slowly through
so many tunnels, rocky and rugged terrain and scenic thick forest.
Shimla is also connected by an all weather metalled road with
major towns and cities. There are regular buses to Shimla from
Delhi, Ambala, Chandigarh, Kalka, Kulu, Manali, Jammu, Nahan
and other cities. Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation
Ltd. operates a number of air-conditioned luxury coaches with
video facility.
Shimla region has the following attractive spots:
Jakhu Temple
Dedicated to Lord Hanuman; this shrine
is situated 2 kms. east of the city at an altitude of 2680 meters.
This is the highest point on the ridge and half an hour of brisk
walk can take you to this temple. The shrine abounds in monkeys
and offers the visitor an excellent view of the city and the
surrounding scenic hills and valleys.
Glen
The Glen is a pleasant picnic spot just
4 km. from the Ridge. This densely wooded glen is by the side
of a snow-fed humbling stream at an altitude of 1830 meters.
Mashobara
Another popular picnic spot is just 10
km. away from Shimla. It offers interesting walks amidst stately
oaks and pines with a night hall at Craignano Rest House atop
a beautiful hill, 3 km. from the actual spot of Mashobara.
Kufri
Sixteen km. from Shimla is a little hamlet
famous as a best ski-resort in the state. Situated at an altitude
of 2501 meters, Kufri begins to throb with life in winter when
ski-enthusiasts congregate from all over the world and enjoy
on its famous ski-slopes. The annual carnival is held here in
the beginning of February. Visitors generally, stay at Shimla
and come to Kufri for the day, but if one likes to stay at Shimla
and come to Kufri for the day, but if one likes to stay at Kufri
he can do so at Tourist Bungalow or at Chini Bungalow-the famous
place where during the Shimla Agreement. Mrs. Indira Gandhi
and Zulfikar All Bhutto, the Prime Ministers of India and Pakistan
respectively, stayed.
Wild Flower Hall
Near Kufri is this picturesque place famous
for a fine view of the city and snow-clad far off mountain peaks.
Once Lord Kitchner, thethen C-in-C of British Forces in India,
lived here. Cottages, single or double room accommodation is
available here at reasonable rates.
Naldera
Ten km. from the Ridge, Naldera is well-known
for its nine-hole golf course. There are tourist Bungalows,
Log Huts and Golf Club Huts and a Cafetaria. The charm of Naldera,
which lies in its bracing and sylvan environs and quite splendor,
is really irresistible.
Fagu
Twenty two km. from Shimla and at a height
of 2610 meters, provides a visitor with an excellent view of
the surrounding valleys, the healing magic environs and solitary
splendor promise an unforgettable experience and relaxation.
The tourists can stay here in the Tourist Bungalow.
There are a number of western style Hotels, Holiday Homes, YMCA
hostels and many cheap lodging around the bus-stand. During
the season it is difficult to find a suitable accommodation
without prior reservation. Since the Mall is the most popular
and fashionable area, the rates are quite high and most of the
best hotels are located here.
Chail
It is royal retreat nestled in stately
deodar and tall pines of the Shivalik slopes; Chail stands at
the altitude of 2,250 meters. It is 45 km. away from Shimla
via Kufri. Once the princely seat of the rulers of Patiala,
Chail promises a variety of outdoor altercations including idyllic
walks, both on easy
and not-so-easy treks, and supremely commanding view of the
Himalayan snowline. Chail can boast of the highest cricket play
ground with concrete pitch in the world. Many splendid villas
and the Palace, now the Chail Place Hotel (Tel, 43, 37) majestically
retlects the princely era of the bygone years. Other places
of stay include Pine Cottages, Log Huts, Honeymoon Cottage and
Himneel Hotel.
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