CHAPTER4;i TOURISM POTENTIAL IN HIMACHAL PRADESH

Transcription

1 CHAPTER4;i TOURISM POTENTIAL IN HIMACHAL PRADESH

2 6.1 TOURISM POTENTIAL There is a great ptential f turism in Himachal Pradesh. Its unique custms, traditins, cultural and abve all the natural attractins and tpgraphy prvide excellent pprtunities fr turism develpment. Its peple have preserved the religin, custms traditins and architecture since time immral. Its distinctive culture and a way f life is als imprtant. It abunds in temples with distinct hill architecture that wuld certainly attract many visitrs. Its traditinal dances and music are lved by all. Its varied and spectacular scenery including snwcapped muntains, glaciers, geysers, biling pls, unique glw wrm caverns, beautiful lakes, appealing muntains with exciting wildlife and a manifestatin f histry which ges back t mre than five hundred years prvide wide scpe f the develpment f turism. Turism industry in Himachal Pradesh has wide scpe t flurish and prvide a new directin t the ecnmy f the state. Turism ptential is nly next t hydr-electric pwer ptential in the state. There is sufficient pprtunities fr wildlife lvers and sprtsmen. It is a paradise fr trekkers, climbers and ther ardent devtees f the spirit f adventure n accunt f its tpgraphy and terrain. The adventure sprts like trekking, muntaineering, rck-climbing, heli-skiing, hang gliding, skiing, water sprts including water skiing, river-rafting, fishing, glf etc. can be perused here. These sprts remained largely undiscvered by adventurers till fairly recently. Even, presently, it has been attracting sme enthusiastic sprtsmen frm all ver the wrld. Himachal is a place f unique interest fr travelers f all types with varying interests. Primarily a muntain state, it is endwed with cl and clear lakes, lfty muntains and fauna, pretty flwers, ancient and beautiful temples and f curse, peple, wh are as inncent as nature itself. The scenic splendur f Himachal is well matched with the facilities it prvides. Tday a turist cming t Himachal can use almst 209

3 different means f transprt. The invigrating climate and the altitude have made it a health resrt. The climate bestws upn Himachal all that a visitr lks fr in the lap f nature t find peace f mind and calmness f heart frm the drudgery f present day mechanical life. It is a place f attractin in summer as well as in winter fr all thse wh are interested t spend their leisure time amidst the beautiful nature surrunding and fr thse interested in winter sprts. In the recent years, Himachal has becme a turist attractin all the year rund. The pleasurable climate and the fresh air with fragrance f flwers during autumn-seasn, clear and cl nights during spring, the unmatchable sunsets in the wrld during mnsns and seasns f lng mnlights during winter are the pints with cmpel turists f different tastes t visit this hill state again and again fr enjyment, enchantment and rest frm the hustle and bustle f plains. There is a remarkable ptential f turism in Himachal Pradesh. Nature has been liberally kind enugh t prvide a large number f 'Beauty spts' t this state. The climate, gegraphical lcatins, thick frests, high muntains and beautiful flwers, bees, raring rivers, its culture, festivals, inncent peple their custms and traditins rich histrical backgrund and numerus architecturally built temples and heart thrbbing natural beauty are the main attractins fr the visitrs which prve the ptential f turism in the state. In this chapter an attempt has been made t study the ptential f turism in the state. The state has wide ptential fr health turism, ecturism, pilgrimage turism, educatinal turism, cmmercial turism, sprts turism and adventure turism. Jeep safari, trekking paradise, water sprts, angling, skiing, paragliding gld and car rally prvide huge ptential fr adventure and sprts turism in the state. Himachal is knwn as the 'land f Gds and Gddesses'. Its hundred f temples and shrines prvides the great ptential fr pilgrimage turism in the state. The wilderness and wild in the state, varius natinal parks, beautiful lakes, festivals, turism in tribal areas 210

4 f the state and Himachaii cuisine are als rich surce f turism in the state. The state has varius attractive places fr turist interest. The mst ppular hubs f turism in the state are; Manali, Shimla, Chamba, Chail, Kasauli, Dharmshala, Dhalausi and Khajjiar, where the turists inflw is very heavy. Hwever, the state has s many undiscvered new destinatins fr the turists which has nt been explred till nw. These are; Sangla, Kalpa valley in Kinnaur, Pabbar and Daran Valley in Shimla district, Anni in KuUu district, Spiti valley, Bharmur-Pangi regin in Chamba district, Janjehi, Shikaridevi and Karsg in Mandi district, Batal regin in Slan district, haripurdhar in Sirmur district and Plampur in Kangra district. The pinin f turists n varius aspects f turism ptential in the state has als been given in this chapter. 6.2 ADVENTURE TOURISM IN HIMACHAL PRADESH Jeep safari; trekking; water supprts; skiing and ther winter sprts, paragliding and glf ffer wide scpe fr turism develpment in the state Jeep Safari Fr thse wh lve adventure but cannt walk lng distances, the best way t explre Himachal and t experience the beauty is t travel by vehicles. Trips t the tribal areas f the state and Manali-Leh Safari are the main attractins. The tribal circuit can be started frm Shimla and ne can visit Kinnaur, Spiti and Lahaul t end the trip at Manali. The jurney can be further extended t the rugged terrain by including the visit t Udaipur in Lahaul and Killar (Pangi valley) in Chamba district. There are many ther remte and beautiful places in the state that can be accessed by vehicle. The rest huses f the public wrks department, frest department and the state electricity bard are the nly places t stay in at several places as there are n htels Jeep Safari adventure can 211

5 be cmbined with Camping. Turism Develpment Crpratin and private parties set up tent clnies at several places in the state during summer mnths; mst prminent amng these are at Sarchu (Lahaul), Kaza (Spiti), Sangla (Kinnaur), Shja (KuUu) and Narkanda (Shimla), Pter Hill (Summer Hill). 6.^^ Muntaineering and Trekking Muntaineers and trekkers have innumerable pprtunities in the state. Several unexplred regins, beautiful but difficult access, green valleys lcated acrss high muntain passes and far flung villages ffer exciting trekking pprtunities equally t the beginners and the prfessinals. Trained guides and experienced prters are available at Shimla and Manali. ^The Directrate f Muntaineering and Allied Sprts at Manali with its branches at Dharamshala (Kangra), Png Dam (Kangra), Bharmur (Chamba), Narkanda (Shimla) and Jispa (Lahaul) runs curses fr trekkers 212

6 and muntaineers. These centers prvide help and guidance t muntaineers and trekkers. Accmmdatin and equipment fr camping and climbing is available at these centres. There are hundreds f treks fr beginners in the state and thse wh are experienced can crss the muntain passes lcated f Dhauladhar, Pir Panjal and Great Himalayas t enter the valleys in the state. The treks can be divided int easy, mderates, and difficult in terms f tughness and highest altitude t be crssed. Lcal peple trek t high altitude lakes in the muntains in large numbers in mnsn mnths. All these lakes are revered as sacred and are wrshipped. Main pilgrimages are t Manimahesh Lake, Lam Dal and Khundi Maral Dal. Besides hundreds f peple undertake difficult and adventurus jurney t Shrikhand Mahadev and Kinner Killash. Thse interested in muntaineering can climb several peaks in the Dhauladhar, Pir Panjal and Zanskar Ranges. 6^3 Water Sprts River Rafting als knwn as white water rafting, is a majr attractin in the state Prfessinal grups rganize river rafting in different rivers such as in Satluj at Jeri and Tattapani (in Shimla district), in Beas at Bhuntar (in KuUu district), in Ravi at Chamba and in Chandra river in Lahaul. River rafting has als been started in Pabbar river at Chirgawn (Shimla district) als. Directrate f Muntaineering and Allied Sprts (DMAS), Manali c-rdinates varius water sprts activities thrugh its training centre at Png Dam. The DMAS ffers basic, advance and methd f instructin curses in swimming and water sprts (such as rafting, kayaking, rwing surfing, caneing and sailing) at Png Dam. These facilities can be prvided at ther places f these rivers 213

7 6.2.4 Angling The rivers f Himachal are rich in Mahasheer, Katla, trut and rhu fishes and sufficient angling pprtunities are there in Pabbar river (Near Rhru in Shimla district), Gbind Sagar Lake (in Bilaspur district), Beas river (near Patlikul in Kullu district), Baspa (in Sangla valley, Kinnaur district) and Uhi river (at Bart, Mandi district). 6.2^ Skiing and Other Winter Sprts Slang nallah in Manali (Kullu district) and Narkanda and Kufri (Shimla district), Dainkund (Kala tp frest in Chamba) are the main ski slpes in Himachal. Heliskiing is rganized in Manali. In additin, there is an pen ice skating rink at Shimla. Winter carnivals at Shimla and Manali are the main turist attractins. These facilities can be extended t ther places t give bst the turism. 6.2^ Para Gliding Para gliding is a mix f sky diving and hand gliding. Billing in Kangra is rated as ne f the finest sites fr paragliding in the wrld. Paragliding Pre Wrld Cup is hsted here every year. Bandla Dhar in Bilaspur. Tarna Temple tp in Mandi and Bijli Mahadev tp in Kullu are ther main paragliding sites in the state Glf Naldera near Shimla has ne i the ldest glf curses in the cuntry'. With a par 68 curse and nine hles it was set up by Lx)rd Curzn, the then Vicery f India ( ) Car Rally Himachal Pradesh ffers ne f the mst exciting and challenging tracks fr any car rally in the wrld. Tucked in the Western Himalayas n ther prtin f the Indian Unin, extends as far nrth as the state f 214

8 Himchal Pradesh. The territry which is ideal fr a mtr rally is almst whlly muntainus with altitudes ranging between 1000 t 22,000 feet abve the sea level. The state extends frm the Shiwalik hills in the suth t the Great Himalayan ranges including a slice t Trans-Himalaya, in the nrth. In this challenging terrain f Himachal varius car and mtr cycles rallies f Natinal and Internatinal imprtance have been taking place. The turism department f the state prmtes these famus rallies like the Himalayan car rally, Muntain Challenge Rally, Treat Himalayan Desert Rally etc. Famus drivers like Shekhar Mehta and Jayant Shah f the African Safari fame, have participated in these rallies. 6.3^ PILGRIMAGE TOURISM The Punjab, Haryana, Delhi Chamber f Cmmerce (PHDCCI) has recmmended t the gvernment that there is gd scpe t develp religius turism in Himachal. Since temples generated a lt f revenue in the state. These temples shuld set up and manage trusts like Triupati Devsathanam and Vaishn Devi Temple Trust. Temples f Himachal are revered nt nly by the peple f the state but als by the peple living in the adjining states. ejk- WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES AND NATIONAL PARKS The state's prtected area netwrk f 32 wildlife sanctuaries and 2 natinal parks represents the myriad diversity f life in the Nrth Western Himalaya. With 64 species f mammals, 463 f birds, 43 f reptiles and 516 f aquatic fauna teeming amng ver 3240 species f plants that define a range f ec-systems and habitats ffer a wide scpe f turism particularly t the wildlife enthusiastic, the indefatigable trekker and the rmantic turists. 215

9 (a) Great Himalayan Natinal Park, KuUu V- The Great Himalayan Natinal Park (GHNP) is bunded n three sides by the perpetual snw f the Himalayas, the entrance t the park thrugh the Tirthan Valley leading up t the Pin Parvati Pass (5800m+) is traditinally cnsidered ne f the mst sacred places in the Western Himalaya. The GHNP prper, the Sainj and the Tirthan wildlife sanctuaries tgether enrich Himachal by their unparalled splendur. Each f these highlight a unique niche in the rich msaic f ur natural heritage t visit t experience the natural mystique f the place. Its enrmus bi-diversity, the critically endangered western tragpan and the mst beautiful f the big cats, the snw lepard, amidst the entire range f vegetatin and eclgical cmplexes f the western Himalayas ffer gd pprtunity fr develpment f adventure turism. (b) The Pin Valley Natinal Park, Spiti Fr unknwn aens, lng befre man discvered this remte land, several hardy animals and birds inhabited this Himalayan Eden in exquisite equilibrium. The Pin Valley Natinal Park represents the bigegraphy f the Trans-Himalayan cld desert with its characteristic flra and fauna. Endangered species such as the precius snw lepard, the endemic Himalayan Ibex, the mighty Bharal r Blue Sheep and the Lynx amng thers are fund in these cld and rugged lands. The deslate grandeur accentuated by the utter lack f nticeable vegetatin brings stunning lunar like beauty t the landscape set against the bluest f skies. The large variety f indigenus, medicinal herbs that help sustain the ancient Amchi (Tibetan) system f medicine add much t the cultural and flristic significance f this natinal park. Fssilised crustacean and ther marine life frms lay embedded in stne and gelgic flds, testimny t the tectnic rise f the Himlaya frm the depth f the 216

10 Tethesy sea. The pin valley natinal park als prvides gd pprtunity t the adventure turists. (c) Renuka Wildlife Sanctuary, Sirmur Spread ver 400 hectares f wd and grass land surrunding the sacred and picturesque Renuka lake, this Wildlife Sanctuary despite its small size, harburs several species f deer like Chital, Sambhar and Barking Deer. The threatened Kaleej pheasant and the mre cmmn Red jungle fwl are als fund here. The Renuka lake and temple attract pilgrims frm far and near. An added attractin is the lin safari. The sanctuary can be visited all the year rund and is easily apprachable frm Chandigarh r Dehradun. (d) Churdahar Sanctuary, Sirmur Named after the 3647m high Churdhar peak, this wildlife sanctuary is a trekkers' paradise in the uter Himalayas. The spectacular Mnal, Himachal's state bird, can be easily sighted in the frest slpes f Churdhar alng with the Kklass and the Kaleej pheasants. The endangered Himalayan black bear and the canine tthed musk deer inhabit the higher reaches f the sanctuary. Sighting them is the ultimate reward fr the spirited trekker n the arduus paths f this sanctuary. There is a Shiva temple and a sarai at Churdhar and Frest Rest Huses at Nehra, Chras and Sarain. Summer r early winter is the best time t visit. (e) Chail Sanctuary, Slan Chail, the summer retreat f the erstwhile Patiala state is a ppular hill statin, nly a cuple f hurs' drive frm Kalka. Thick dedar, blue pine and ak frests clth the slpes arund this quiet, cl twn. Extensive grasslands in the sanctuary are ideal habitat fr Ghral and the rare Cheer pheasant. A herd f Eurpean red deer, intrduced earlier, still ram the frest. An encunter with a Barking Deer r the Kaleej pheasant is a near certainty at dawn r dusk. 217

11 Trekking is ppular with visitrs and rewarding. A well appinted htel hused in the palace f the Maharaja f Patiala is the perfect launch site t make frays int this fascinating wildlife sanctuary. Fr cricket lvers, Chail incidentally, basts f the wrld's highest cricket grund. Summer is cl and winter very cld. (f) Maharana Pratap Sagar Himachal's famus wetland, spread ver 300sq. kms. teeming with the anglers' delight, the Mahaseer, the Png Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary is mre imprtantly the ultimate heaven fr birds, bth migratry and resident in Himachal Pradesh. (g) Kalatp-Khajjiar Sanctuary, Chamba The magnificence f the dedar frest is at its best here. An hurs drive frm the well knwn hill resrt Dalhusie, the Kalatp Khajjiar Sanctuary, hme t the elusive Serw and the cmmn Black Bear with numerus well laid ut trekking paths is a star attractin fr the wildlife turists. The curius flating island in a small water bdy amidst an enchanting meadwn at Khajjiar has becme legendary scenery. Nwhere in Himachal is such pure an exquisite wilderness is s easily accessible. T experience the bliss f slitude, stay at the Kalatp Frest Rest Huse. Summer is best here. 6.5 FESTIVALS OF HIMACHAL PRADESH Himachal is a cherished destinatin, thrnged by visitrs rund the year. The grandeur f parleys f muntains with mnsns display unmatched feast fr ne's mind and bdy. Wrk must be the last thing n visitrs' minds while in Himachal. Inviting scenery and festivities all arund and rund the year is sure t leave a lasting impressin, tempting visitrs t fall in lve with Himachal. Winter Chill utdrs cntrasts well with the warmth f the fireplace indrs. Festivities take a head start with Lhri celebratin 218

12 when peple, yung and ld, vlunteer t sing fld sngs by the side f bnfire at night. Rest f them jin dance sequences t the tunes f ccasinal cracking sund f blazing fire. Ski slpes f Kufri, Manali and Narkanda cme t life with adventure seekers cmpeting their way dwnhill. Fr daredvils, Manali, as a base camp, ffers best pprtunity fr Heliskiing. Flinging snwball at ne anther is yet anther ppular fun, acquainting strangers with ne anther and at times creating lifelng affinities. Basant Panchami marks the nset f spring. Manali is the venue f Winter Carnival, visited by thusands f peple t enjy and participate in varius events. In Hamirpur and Kangra, kite fliers are facilitated by the cl breeze filling the skies with clurful kites. Hly, the festival f clurs, is celebrated thrughut Himachal, particularly juveniles making the mst f it. Panta Sahib Gurdwara, n the banks f Yamuna, wears mre than a festive lk n the day with devtees making a beeling t pay beisance. Shivratri f Mandi is a week-lng fair when the lcaj deities assemble t meet ne anther in a defined rder f hierarchy. The fair is marked by gaiety with fun and frlic at its zenith. It is als the mnth f famus Bala Sundari Fair held at Trilkpur near Nahan in Sirmur. Devtees flck in large numbers fr a hly dip in the sacred waters at varius places n the ccasin f Baisakhi. Mre prminent places are Tattapani, Rewalsar and Prashar in Mandi district. At many places, events including archery and wrestling cmpetitins are a delight t watch. Sui Mela f Chamba Twn reminds the visitr f the sacrifices f ruling clan fr the welfare f their subjects. Markanda Fair f Bilaspur is eagerly awaited fr by the rural flks wh cme as far as frm distant villagers f neighbring State. As the days advance int summers, the enchanting meadws f Sipur near Mashbra, prvide a fascinating pprtunity t intermingle with rural fld wh gather fr Sipi Fair. In Kullu district, Dhngri Fair 219

13 f Manali arund Hadimba Temple and Banjar Fair in Outer Seraj valley f KuUu exhibit an intermix f traditinal and mdern practices. Para gliding at biling in Kangra attracts the best f gliders frm far and wide. Summer festivals at Dharmshala in anther star attractin with artist frm all ver India enthralling audience. Guru Ghantal Mnastery in Lahaul valley is the site f Ghantal Festival which is celebrated during the full phase f mn. Besides, Shalni fair f Slan is anther ccasin f festivities. June mnth finds favur with hikers and trekkers wh thrng picturesque valleys and muntain ranges f Himachal where mild t arduus trek rutes abund. Shimla is the venue f numerus musical events, fashin cnsumer fairs with flambyant display f innvative prducts are shppers paradise. Exquisite handicrafts f India are available under ne rf at Handicrafts Mela. It is als the mnth f cnferences, seminars, mushairas and ther cultural events. With the nset f mnsns, Sairi f Arki, Ladarcha f Kaza, Lahaul festivals f Lahaul and Spiti are celebrated with fervr. The lush green muntains, terraced fields and apple rchards are phtgrapher's delight. Sharwan fair f Naina Devi, verlking the fertile plains f Punjab and Bhakra Dam reservir n either side having the facility f passenger rpeway, is a sacred pilgrimage fr the Hindus and the Sikhs. Shrawn Fair f Naina Devi is attended by millins f devtees. Minjar Fair is fllwed by Maninxahesh Yatra in Chamba marking the Gd harvest Seasns. Gugga Mairi Fairs are rganized at many places in Bilaspur and Chamba in devtin f Nag Devta. In the upper reaches f Dharamshala, Dal fair is rganized at Dal Lake. Receding Mnsns reveals the nset f autumn, rendering array f hues all arund. Phulech, the festivals f flwers is held amidst the gaiety f twering muntains f Kinnaur with Tribals indulging in singing 220

14 and merrymaking. Chattrari fair f Chamba regin is knwn fr its marks dances perfrmed t appears Shakti, the all pwerful gddess. Satr festivals f Kangra valley and Sagni Fair, Nurpur unveil the ushering in f winters. At Shimla near Craignain, Bullfights are the highlight f Jhte Ka MeUt. Bawan Dtuadshi Fair f Nahan is well attended by Peple frm neighburing hamlets. Internatinally acclaimed week lng Dussehra Festival f Kullu is celebrated with pervading spirit. Makeshift shps at Dhalpur maidan d brisk business in lcal wares and cnsumer wares. Evenings are marked by perfrmances f renwned artists. Maharana Pratap Sagar (Png Dam reservir) witnesses all India water Sprts events. Amidst icy chill f Nvember, the trade fair f Lavi at Rampur still retains its age ld glry and ffers decent pprtunity t prcure dry fruits, yak wl and wlen prducts crafted by lcal flks. This three day lng Mela is als characterized by barter trade invlving huses t. The banks f Renuka lake in Sirmur cme t life with the hustle and bustle f peple attending Renuha Fair, held in reverence f Lrd Parashuram. It is als an ccasin t lk fr life partners and tie nuptial knts. Kinnauri Traders Selling their Prduce Visitrs are greatened with snwflakes twards the end f December. The unique Ice Skating Carnival at Shimla include fancy 221

15 dress and trchlight relay presenting a marvelus and exciting entertainment. Chiming f Church bells and white Christmas is everyne's fancy. The new year eve celebratins cntinue till midnight with visitrs ver indulging in the celebratins f all srts. 6.6 LAKES OF HIMACHAL PRADESH A visible part f Himachal's map is clured blue and well ver ne percent f its mass is under sme frm f water-lakes and rivers and glaciers. Of the lakes, sme are natural bequests that date back millins f years t the time when the regin was vast inland sea and tday, they are fed by streams f pure snw-melt r by grundwater springs. Practically withut exceptin, they are held sacred-r at the very least, have fascinating legends lapping their crystal-clear waters. Other lakes are far mre recent and are manmade reservirs. Many are surces f the rivers that start as tiny streams and grw t becme the giants that feed the fertile valleys f the State and the Gangetic plains f nrth India. Several lakes are hme t a variety f resident and migratry birds, and a hst f aquatic life. These water bdies have als pened a tremendus range f activity and adventure that includes bating, swinging, caneing, water skiing, kayaking, sailing, surfmg and fmishing. (a) Maharana Pratap Sagar The lake has an area f abut 45,000 hectares at maximum flding. The Sagar is a declared a bird sanctuary and ver 220 species belnging t 54 families have been sighted; these include black-headed gulls, plvers, tems, ducks, water-fwl and egrets-the first sighting f the red-necked grebe was made at the Sagar. The lake's lcatin at the head f the Indian plains has made it a suitable habitat and stpver fr migratry birds that enter India frm Central Asia. A branch f the Directrate f Muntaineering and Allied Sprts is lcated at the Maharana Pratap Sagar. Year lng activities include swimming, water-skiing, surfing, kayaking, rwing, caneing and sailing. 222

16 The Directrate f Turism and Civil Aviatin prvides equipment at the Sagar which includes sail bats, paddle bats, life buys, water scters, speed bats, rafts, life jackets, wate skis and wet suits. Varius cursesbeginners, intermediate and advanced-are als cnducted at the Sagar. (b) Pandh Lake Pandh lake is lcated 19 km away frm Mandi twn n Natinal Highway 21, which leads t Kullu and Manali. Targeted at the generatin f Hydel pwer. Fishing and bating are available at this lake. (c) Gbind Sagar The Gbind Sagar ver the river Sutlej, lcated in Bilaspur district is the result f the huge hydel dam at Bhakra and is named in hnur f Gbind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. One f the wrld's highest gravity dams, the Bhakra rises 225.5m abve it slwest fundatins. It feeds electricity and water t several states f nrth India. Its reservir-the Gbind Sagar-is 90 kms lng and encmpasses an area f apprximately 170sq. kms. It hsts a variety f water and shre birds. Fishing is a regular activity and fifty-ne-species and sub-species have been recrded'. Of Interest, the varieties fund include Labe der (Gid), Tr pitutrata (Mahsir), Mystus seenghala (Singhara) and mirrr carp and allied species. Fishing and water sprts are available. The speedbats and ferry rides are als available. (d) Renuka Lake Renuka lake is cnnected by rad and lies in the Sirmaur district. It is 123 kms frm Paru^an, 60 kms frm Panta Sahib and 37 kms frm Nahan. It is lcated at 672m abve the sea level with a circumference f 3214m, Renuka ji is the largest natural lake in Himachal Pradesh. This lake is regarded as the embdiment f the gddess Renuka. Near the lake's feet is anther lake held sacred t her sn Parshuram. The lake rests in a lng valley and the surrunding slpes are cvered with a variety f vegetatin and thick wds. Bating 223

17 Turism Ptential in Himachai Pradesh is available n the lake. A lin safari and a small z are als there at Renuka. This is als the site f an annual fair held in Nvember. (e) Macchial Lake This small lake is lcated 2 km. frm Jgindernagar (Mandi district) held sacred t the lcal deity Macchendru Devta and is a picturesque spt. (f) Dal Lake Dal lake is lcated at 1775 m abve sea level in district Kangra, 11 km frm Dharamshala. It is linked with mtr rad. Surrunded by dedar (Himalayan cedar) trees and held sacred, it has a small Shiva temple n its banks. The banks f the lake are enlivened every September by a fair attended - amngst thers- by a large number f migrant Gaddi flk. (g) Chamera Lake In Chamba district, the Chamera lake is frmed by Chamera Dam n the Ravi River at Churah at 763 m abve sea level. The site is easily accessible frm the Chamba- Pathankt highw^ay. Water sprts activities are available at Chamera Lake. (h) Kareri Lake Kareri lake is lcated in district Kangra, 35 kms. away frm Dharamshala at 1810 m abve sea level. Surrunded by thick wds and the visually stunning backdrp f the Dhauladhar muntains, this is a beacn fr trekkers in the area. (1) Khajjiar Lake Khajjiar lake is lcated in district Chamba, 16 kms. away frm Dalhusie and 25 kms. away frm Chamba, at 1900 m abve sea level. Fed by slim streams, this small lake rests in the centre f the large glade f Khajjiar. The glade and the lake are held sacred t Khajjinag-after whm the place is named. Khajjiar has the thick frest f the Kalatpe sanctuary surrunding its sft green grass. 224

18 (j) Kumarwah I/ake Kumarwah lake is lcated in the Chachit tehsil f district Mandi. It is 40kms. away frm Mandi twn. This attractive lake in a secluded part f the state, is als held sacred. (k) Prashar Lake Prashar lake is lcated at Prashar village in district Mandi. It is 42 kms frm Mandi twn. With deep blue waters, this beautiful lake is held sacred t the sage Prashar. A three-tiered pagda-like temple dedicated t the sage is situated by the lake-end and he is regarded t have meditated here. Its remarkable setting is enhanced by a frm f snwdraped peaks, and visible frm the lake's edge, the water f the river Sutlej flw dwn suth. (I) Nak Lake In the Ph sub-divisin f district Kinnaur, the Nak lake is situated at 3663 m. abve sea level. The lake is surrunded by willw and ppular trees-and the village seems t be half buried in the lake's brders. On the water's nrthern side, are fur Buddhist temples with stucc images and murals. Near Nak is a ftprint-like impressin ascribed t the saint Padmasambhava. (m) Chandra Tal Chandra Tal is situated 4300 m sea level and 6kms frm the Kunzam Pass that cnnects Spiti and Lahaul. Surrunded by snws and acres f scree, this deep blue-water lake has a circumference f 2.5kms. This is the surce f the river Chandra. (n) Suraj Tal Suraj Tal is lcated belw the summit f the Baralacha Pass in the Lahaul divisin f district Lahaul and Spiti at the height f 4980 m abve sea level. The Baralacha pass cnnects Manali and Lahaul t Ladak, and the lake which draws a cnsiderable number f visitrs-especially in summer-lies by its head. This is the surce f the river Bhaga. 225

19 () Dhankar Lake This lake lies a few kilmeters abve the mnastery f Dhankar in Spiti. The Dhankar mnastery is ne f the imprtant Buddhist gmpas in Spiti. This water bdy in an therwise arid area, is apprached by a trek frm the mnastery. (p) Dashair Dashair lake is lcated near the Rhtang Pass at the height f 4270 mtrs. frm seal level. It cnnects district Kullu with Lahaul. Als knwn as Sarkund and Dashair, this attractive lake has a depth f barely 3 kms. (q) Brighu Lake Brighu Lake is lcated at in district Kullu at the height f 4235 mtrs. abve sea level. It lies east f the Rhtang Pas and is abut 6kms frm the village f Gulaba. The shres f clear water lake are devid f human habitatin-and yet, it is visited regularly by the peple f the area and is held sacred t the Sage, Brighu. It als lies n several trek rutes f the regin. (r) Seruvalsar Lake Seruvalsar lake is lcated at 3100 mtrs. abve sea level in district Kullu. It is 20 kms frm Ani in the directin f the Jlari Pass. This lake has a picturesque setting amidst a thick frest. (s) Ghadhasarul Lake This lake lies in the Churah tehsil f Chamba at 3470 mtrs. abve sea level and is 24 kms. frm Tissa. This lake is als held sacred and has a circumference f abut a kilmeter. (t) Mahakali Lake This lake lies between San and Gudial in district Chamba and 4080 mtrs. abve sea level.. This midding lake is held sacred t the gddess Mahakali. 226

20 (u) Manimahesh Lake Manimahesh lake is situated at 4080 mtrs. abve sea level in district Chamba. It is 32 kms. frm Bharmaur. Held sacred t Lrd Shiva this lies in the Budhil valley at the ft f Manimahesh ranges. The peak f Manimahesh Kailash is regarded as ne f the m3^hical abdes f Lrd Shiva. This lake is the venue f the annual Manimahesh yatra that begins frm Chamba after the festivals f Janamashtami, nrmally in August. Manimahesh Lake (v) Lama Dal Lama Dal is situated in district Chamba, at 45 kms. frm Chamba twn at 3960 mtrs. abve sea level. Held sacred t Lrd Shiva, this lake lies amidst bare rck. Lama Dal means a lng lake. (w) Chander Naun It is lcated at 4260 mtrs. abve sea level in district Shimla, tehsil Rhru. Accessible t experienced trekkers and fed by a series f springs, this lake lies in the Chanshal range. Surrunded by snw fr lng perids this is the surce f the river Pabbar. In the Shimla area lie the small rain-water fed lakes f Tani Jubbar (between Tikkar and Thanedar, via Narkanda) Kunihar (near Subathu) 227

21 and Kaiyali, that lies ff the Chti (small) Shall Peak (accessed via Naldehra and Basantpur). There are several natural pnds in the areane lies belw 'New Shimla' and there is anther between Mashbra and Carignan. 6.7 TOURISM POTENTIAL IN TRIBAL AREAS OF HIMACHAL PRADESH Of the varied cultures that c-exist in harmny with nature in Himachal, the tribal scieties f Lahaul and Spiti and Kinnaur celebrate the triumph f man in adversity. With spark f the nble savage still alive in them, these gentle peple wh inhabit sme f the harshest high altitude terrains in the wrld and surviving in extreme climatic cnditins make the best f what they call hme. The traveler cannt help but marvel at the hand f the creatr f this deep Himalayan cuntry. The landscapes f this trans-himalayan zne will seduce any adventure turist, pilgrim, explrer, muntaineer r wildlife enthusiast. Artists and phtgraphers call it heaven's delight. The mnasteries f Lahaul and Spiti are rich repsitries f Buddhist icngraphy aninted in ancient murals, tankhas, wd carving and glden images f Padmasambhava. Spiti's well knwn mnasteries are Tab, Kye, Dhankar and thse f Lahaul are Guru Ghantal n the Chandra river bank, Kardang near Keylng (the district headquarter), Shashur, Gmpa, Tayur and Gemur. Fresces, mural paintings, wd carvings n walls and ceiling, hly thangka paintings and stcked with ancient scriptures, these mnasteries have served t keep Buddhism alive in the valley. At first glance Tab (47km frm Kaza, 3050m) seems nthing mre than a series f mud huts. But inside, a series f amazing galleries f wall paintings and stucc statues emerge. Funded in 996AD, it is ften called the 'Ajanta f the Himalayas', after the almst legendary art treasure site in Maharashtra. In terms f area, this is the largest 228

22 mnastic cmplex in Spiti, and the ld sectin has nine temples, 23 chrtens, a mnks' chamber and a nuns' chamber. There are several caves and cntemprary structures that frm a part f the Tab cmplex. In Trans Himalayan Buddhism, Tab's sanctity is next nly t Tibet's Thling mnastery. Tab has been declared a Wrld Heritage Site* by UNES. 6.8 HIMACHAL CUISINE The state's different regins and their varied prduce have created a range f tantalizing dishes that are special t each area. In mst parts, the pastral traditin is strng and milk and milk-prducts are liberally used. In certain areas, nn-vegetarian fd is the nrm and meals are centred arund meat, cereals and lentils. It is nly in recent times that green vegetables have becme a part f the daily fare-especially in the higher tracts. Fd is generally spicy and whild cardamm, cinnamn and red peppers are all used, recipes call fr subtle variatins t suit lcal palates. In the rugged regins f Kinnaur and Lahaul and Spiti, fd has marked Tibetan influences and the emphasis is n carse grains that are lcally grwn-buckwheat, millet and barely. Thupa, is a favurite and cnsists f a rather fiery sup with meat chunks and ndles. Cereals frm the backbne fr many meals. The staple cereal dish, sidu is made f wheat dugh t which yeast has been added. This is allwed t rise fr fur r five hurs. With a stuffing f fat, it is first brwned ver a slw fire and then steamed. These cakes are nrmally eaten with ghee, lentils r muttn. In the sirmur area, patande, a srt f pancake, is smething f a delicacy. In many parts, anklas made f rice flur are a festive dish. In Lahaul and Spiti, the green leaves f buckwheat are mixed with flur and made tit cakes called aktri. Unusual dishes have been created by the imaginative use f amaranthlaffi is a mixture f 'ppped' amaranth and aprict pulp, and pamdah 229

23 prepared in the Kullu valley uses amaranth with sybean flur, spinach, salt and spices. There are different types f dhaam. The mst ppular amng them is the Namasi dhaam r the n Meat dhaam. This type f vegetarian fd is best suited fr ccasins, where guests belng t different backgrunds and have different chices. It is a seven curse meal because seven dishes are served ne after the anther in a fldex sequence. Fd is served in *pattals' and 'dunnas', plates and bwls made f leaves. First f all, rice is served. It is called bhat r chul. After that is the turn f mng-ki-daal. (green lentils). Nw cmes the main attractin the madra, a special preparatin f rajmash, curd and ghee (clarified butter). Chambyali dham cannt be imagined withut madra. Next cmes maah-ki-daal (dark lentils) and karhi which is anther delicacy f the regin. It is fllwed by meetha chul, sweetened rice garnished with ccnut, pistachi, nuts and raisins. The feast is runded ff with khatta-a sweet and sur chutney with gram flur crispy brs flating in it. It is said that khatta helps in the digestin f the rich fd cnsumed. All f these recipes by virtue f their heavenly tastes and unique ingredients have fund their ways t the tables f many five star htels. Dhaam is nt nly a frm f feast but a stry f lve, tlerance and scial acceptance f all members f the sciety. It is a celebratin f jy where everyne is an equal participant. This healthy traditin keeps check n any feelings f superirity r inferirity that usually develps due t differences between the rich and pr. Because f these qualities, this traditin is still thriving in this era f fast-fd and catering services and bestw it a distinct place in the cultural heritage f Himachal just as the flavur f the fd lingers n lng after yu have finished eating, the fragrance f this traditinal feast and the wisdm behind it cntinues t ccupy a place in yur heart. 230

24 6.9 TOURISM ATTRACTIONS IN HIMACHAL PRADESH Himachal has everything fr everyne in all seasns. Enchanting hills, deep and green valleys, ppular pilgrim centres, unexplred regins bathed in pristine beauty, culturally unique and rich tribal area, gurgling streams and alpine flra all attract the turists frm fertile plains t lush green meadws and frm thick frests t barren muntains, the landscape is rich and varied. Culture is as diverse as the landscape. Mre than 2000 deities, lcal gds and gddesses are wrshipped in the state and almst every village has its wn deity. These gds speak thrugh the chsen nes called chelas and gurus wh regulate the lives f hill peple. The dialect changes after every few kilmeters and custms and traditins als vary. Numerus fairs and festivals are held arund the year celebrating the spirit f life in the mst taxing circumstances, peple are gd-fearing and hspitable. There is a wndrus mix f traditin and mdernity. Snw-peaked, pine scented, flwer-sprinkled Himachal Pradesh is a heaven in the heart f the Himalayas. Himachal Pradesh is clustered with picturesque hill resrts, where ne can breathe pure muntain air, ne can lish, track, explre the cuntry side r just gaze at the breath taking muntains. All these characteristics f this state undubtedly make it the Switzerland f India.' Turism industry has a vast ptential in Himachal Pradesh than any ther state f Indian unin. The puranas and ther Hindu texts, als have detailed descriptins abut the glrius beauty f the Himalayas, adrned n it by the Almighty. The develpment f turism in Himachal Pradesh began with the starting f secnd five years plan. With the re-rganisatin f the Punjab areas, tremendusly rich turists ptential areas like thse f Kullu, Manali, Kangra, Dharmshala, Shimla, Kasauli, Chail and Dalhusie came ver t Himachal Pradesh. Himachal Pradesh is Gd's wn cuntry. It ffers tremendus turists ptentialities in its twelve districts. 231

25 (1) SHIMLA DISTRICT Turism Ptential in Himachal Pradesh Shimla is the capital f Himachal Pradesh. It is situated in the Nrth-West Himalayas and was the Summer capital f India during the pre-independence era. This twn is spread ver the 12 km. It is perhaps the biggest hill statin in the wrld, lcated at an altitude f 7262 feet abve sea level. A place f peace and pleasure, Shimla is a turist resrt in real sense f the wrd. Shimla is well cnnected with air, rail and rad traffics. The fuwings are the places f turists interest in Shimla and its surrunding areas. Indian Institute f Advance Studies The institute is hused in the erstwhile Vice Regal Ldge which was built in during the perid f Lrd Dufferin. It is a cmmanding building and designed by Henry Twain in Summer Hill with beautiful and fascinating garden. 11 ffers shady walks in quiet surrundings. Himachal Pradesh University is lcated here. Vice Regal Ldge (Institute f Advance Studies Kamna Devi and Tara Devi Hill Kamana Temple is lcated at the peak near Bileauganj. It is mst ppular picnic spt, which cmmands a unique view f Shimla, Jutgh, Summer Hill and Tara Devi. Tara Devi Hill is famus fr its Tara Devi Mata Temple n the tp f the hill. It is 8 km. frm Shimla at the altitude f 2,100 mtrs. 232

26 WUd Flwer HaU Wild Flwer Hall is surrunded by dense and beautiful pine frest lcated at a distance f 13 km. frm Shimla. It was the residence f Lrd Kitchner, the Cmmander-in-Chief f India in the Beginning f twentieth century. The State Museum The state museum at Shimla represents hill art and the cultural wealth shwing their link with the natinal artistic scene. It has a cllectin f miniature paintings, pahari as well as frm ther schls, sculptures, wd-carvings and als cstumes, textiles and jewellery f the regin. Jakhu HiU Jakhu Hill, the highest peak in Shimla twn, ffers panramic view f the twn and the muntains. It is very famus fr Hanuman Temple. Accrding t legend, Hanumanji tk same rest here when he was carrying a hill f 'Sanjiwani bti.' Retreat fr WIPs The weekend resrt f Lrd Curzn abut 1 km. frm Wild Flwer Hall. It has already been emerged as a favrite destinatin f the rich and the famus and had been attracting celebrities and WIPs. The thickly wded hill surrunding, the cmplex presents nature at its captivating best. With a large expanse f dense cedar and pine frests, the resrts ffers awe- inspiring views f the majestic snw peaks. Mashbra Mashbra at a distance f 13 kms. frm Shimla is a ppular picnic spt, it als ffers ideal walks amidst frest f Oak and Pine at the height f 2149 meters. The area adjining t Mashbra is famus fr apple rchards. The annual 'Sipi Fair' is held here in the mnth f May. Naldera The Queen f Hills has the unique destinatin f having ne f the ldest and mst sprting glf curses in India set in the midst f thick 233

27 frests at Naldera 22 kms. frm Shimla n Shimla-Sunni rad. It is knwn fr its nine hle glf curse.' Naldera Glf curse was laid by Lrd Curznin Kufri (A Hliday Resrt) When the snw are falling thick, a lg fire, rm service and the pleasures f a high attitude resrt are cnducive t rmance. In winter, if yu are lking fr a hliday and dn't knw where t g, yu visit Kufri. Winters in the hill state Kufri has its wn charm. The scene after a fresh snw fail can nly be cmpared t a fairyland. Kufri is 16 km frm Shimla at an attitude f 2,633 metres Kufri has wn a name n the sprts and turist map f India due t its 'ski-runs; *Seed Ptat Farm' f the Central Ptat Research institute. Chail The Summer capital f the erstwhile Patiala State, Chail is a small twn, lcated amid thick wds. It has the highest cricket grund in the wrld. The Chail wildlife sanctuary was nce the private hunting reserve f the Maharajas f Patiala. In 1976, this was ntified as a sanctuary. The trees f the area include Oak, pines, rhddendrn and dedar. The sanctuary has a variety f wildlife that include the rhesus- macaque, lepards, the Himalayan black bear, the wild bar, langur, ghral. Sambhar and the 'Khalij' and 'Cheer' pheasants. Machan like righting psts near 'Blssm' at Khariun and fishing in the Gaura river cmplete the picture f stately, slw paced, ld wrld living,. An ideal place t take a walk r a mre challenging trek. Pabbar Valley Frm the twn f Theg, 32 kilmeters frm Shimla, ne can take a branch rad thrugh thick frests interspersed with picturesque hamlets t arrive at Ktkhai 67 kms. frm Shimla. The twn is best knwn fr its apple rchards and traditinal architecture. Further dwn the rad, 104 kms. frm Shimla, are the ancient temples f HatKti. Packed with ancient legends and lcal lre, the temples f Hatkti is lcated at the 234

28 bank f rivers Pabbar. The cre belngs t the classical Shikhara style Mahishasurmardini called lcally Hateshwari temple. The adjining Shiva temple is f the latika type and has sme remarkable wd carvings. Past Hatkti is Rhru which is the site f an annual fair and the base fr sme challenging treks. Rhru cnnects turists t the Chansal ski slpes which can cmpete with the best in the wrld. The river Pabbar, at Rhru, is an excellent place fr trut fishing. A visit t Jubbal, a graceful twn with a splendid ld place that was nce the capital f a princely state, prvides ne with an pprtunity t enjy traditinal architecture in the heart f the apple-cuntry. The Pabbar valley fed by glaciar ice and pure snwmelt, the river Pabbar rises in the chanshal range-just suth f Kinnaur. The Pabbar valley and beynd has the tre f that pristine wrld. Here, like a lng unseen flwer n the muntain side, this treat has blmed with a beauty and glry f its wn. There is a vast ptential fr the turists in the pabbar valley. Ddra-Kawar The village f Ddra and Kawar are separated by a few kilmeters and has been recently cnnected by a mtrable rad, this packet retains a pristine beauty. There are cuntless wild flwers and medicinal herbs, thick wds f flwering shaddendrn, cedar and birch, waterfalls and fast flwing streams. All this is set against a majestic backdrp f high peaks-like the Sharangcha. The villages and their temples, are remarkable examples f lcal wd wrking fascinating legends. Narkanda Sixty fur kilmeters frm Shimla, at a height f 2700 meters, Narkanda has a chice f ski slpes a beginner's run, a slalm slpe and sharper descents fr the seasned skier. Hattu Peak at the altitude f 3300 mts. rises thrugh spruce trees t crwn the place. An hur's drive away are Thanedar and Ktgarh, where the Quaker, Samuel Even Stkes, settled after cnverting t Hinduism and planted rchard f delicius apples that transfrmed the lcal ecnmy. 235

29 Rampur It is situated 130 kilmeters frm Shimla at the bank f rivers Satluj. Rampur was the capital f the erstwhile Bushahr state. This was nce a majr stpver n the ld trade rute and the Lavi fair, held here every autumn, still barters and sells a variety f gds. The ld palace is a remarkable-if eclectic-piece f architecture. Shrt f the twn at Nirath has ancient Sun Temple famus fr its ld exquisite architecture. Sarahan Lcated 44 kilmeters frm Rampur, Sarahan is steeped in legend and unique hill architecture with its resplendent glry and remarkable natural beauty, famus fr BhimaKali Temple cmplex regarded as ne f the majr shaktipeethas, Sarahan is als the gateway t Kinnaur. MAA BHIBSA KALI TEMPLE MPLEX AT SARAHAN (2) SOLAN DISTRICT Slan The district headquartered at Slan, a busy, bustling twn n the main Shimla-Chandigarh highway. It is als the bifurcatin pint fr Rajgarh with its rchards and enchanting villages. There are many places 236

30 f turists interest in the district, renwned fr their scenic beauty. It has the temples f ShUni Devi, Devi Durga, Hari, Narsingh as well as the Sanatan Dharm ne. The Library and the ld church at Chambaghat are wrthwhile t visit. Frm Slan, the Jatli village (15km.) and the temple f Lrd Shiva may be visited. The Buddist Delanji Bn Mnastery (18km) lies n the Slan-Rajgarh Rad. The frestry and Hrticulture University at Nauni has an attractive campus. Rajgarh (53km) is full f rchards that grw stne-fruit like plums, apricts and peaches. Barg Once just a stpver n the Kalka-Shimla highway, this has grwn int a destinatin in its wn right. Surrunded by pine frests, it presents a frntal view f the Chr Chandini Peak. Barg's attractins include the railway statin which is perhaps the mst attractive ne n the Kalka-Shimla Railway line and als has the lngest tunnel which is ver a kilmeter lng. Kasauli The little twn f Kasauli lies curled alng the heights f the first majr rw f hills. This twn is 77 kms. frm Shimla and 35 kms. frm Kalka, situated at a height f 1927 meters. Its cbbled paths, tiny shapes, gabled huses with magnificent facades are scres f neat little gardens and rchards make ne feel as if he has been transprted int a clnial wrld. Mnkey pint, fur kilmeters frm the bus stand, is a favurite spt t view the scenery. The cable way that rides acrss frm Parwan t Banasar htel cmplex and frm Kti t the KK. Htel are a delightful and thrilling experience that ffer sme spectacular views f the rich hill slpes and dramatic scenery. Clse by it is Subathu, whse ld frt attracts many visitrs. 237

31 (3) SIRMOUR DISTRICT Sirmur district lies in uter Himalayan ranges, cmmnly called as Shivaliks. This district is predminantly muntainus. There is a large number f famus turist places fr a lavish display f natural scenery. Nahan Nahan was funded in 1621 by Maharaja Karam Prakash and was the capital f Sirmur. This was the nly princely state f Himachal whse ruler had the title f Maharaja. Tday's Nahan is a charming twn with graceful traditinal huses, winding rads and ld palaces. The twn has ne the ldest municipalities in the cuntry dating back t mre than a hundred years. The Nahan fundry, established in 1873 under the aegis f Raja Shamsher Prakash, remains a heritage enterprise with its centuries ld machines and casts. Ranzre Palace and the cllectrate are ther buildings f interest. The Lakhdata Pir is a regular stpver fr any pilgrim in the area. Believed t have supernatural pwer f intercessin, peple visit this in the hpe that their wishes will be fulfilled. The Jri Bain, the Lakshmi Narayan and the Jagannath temples are the ther well knwn shrines f the area. The Fssil Park at Saketi, beynd Nahan, recreates the 85 millin year ld remains f the Serigeptus dinsaurs whse remains were discvered here. The visit t the Simbalwara wildlife sanctuary ne may be lucky t see a lepard in its natural habitat. Panta Sahib Panta Sahib is situated n the bank f the river Yamuna. In the clsing years f the seventeenth century, the sixteen year ld Sikh Guru, Gbind Singh came t the princely state f Sirmaur. There is a gurudwara dedicated t the tenth Sikh Guru, Gbind Singh, wh spent five years here. Panta means a space fr a fthld." The attractins f Pants Sahib include the main gurudwara whse premises als have ther histrical sites and a museum. The gurudwaras f Bhangani Sahib, Tirgadi Sahib and Shergah Sahib are als clse t Panta Sahib, the 238

32 Yamuna Mandir is dedicated t the gddess Yamuna and lies immediately belw the Panta Sahib gurudwara by the banks f the river Yamuna. Apart frm these places f pilgrimage, the Asam Barrage n the river Yamuna ffers water sprts and Simbalwara Wildlife Sanctuary lies 12 kms ff the main Nahan Panta Sahib rad and is a thick scrub and safe frest knwn fr a variety f bird life and deer. Dhaula Kuan On the rad t Panta abut 20km. frm Nahan there is Dhaula Kuan where it is wrthwhile stpping t see a sprawling rchard cnsisting f citrus plants and manges. The HPMC is als running a fruit canning unit which manufactures varius kinds f juices, jams, pickles and caned fruit. The fertile Panta valley starts frm this place. Renuka Ji The lake f Renuka ji lies in the lw Shiwalik hills that frm the uter fringes f the Himalaya muntains. Fed by under water springs and with a circumference f 2.5 kms, this is the natural largest lake in Himachal. The lake rests in a lng valley and the surrunding wds are cvered with a variety f dense vegetatin. Renuka's attractins includes the temples f Renuka and Parshurama that lie alng the Lakeshere, the Miniz and lin Safari while the Jataum barrage ver the river Giri makes an interesting excursin. Dadahu is the largest village clsest t Renukaji and has a market with all basic gds. Beynd Renukaji ne can g up t Haripurdhar a distance f 56 kms which ffers numerus treks including ne t the Chur-Chandni Peak. It has a beautiful PWD rest huse and the small temple dedicated t Bhagain Devi, wh dictates the scial relatinships in the area. Trilkpur Temple It was built in 1573 by Raja Dip Parkash and at distance f abut 23 km frm Nahan and gateway t Nahan frm Haryana. Trilkpur is a place f great religius imprtance. The temple f the gddess 239

33 'Mahamaya Bala Sundari' is quite famus and attracts lakh f pilgrims frm all ver Nrthern India, especially in Navratra fairs. Special buses are available frm many prminent twns f Nrthern India. (4) KINNAUR DISTRICT Kinnaur is hme t sme f India's ldest traditins and legends. The Pandave brthers' are said t have spent several years f their exile in these tracts an episde frm the epic Mahabarata. The valley was a part f the erstwhile princely state f Bushaihar. Here is wealth f lcal architecture and breathtaking natural beauty. There is fishing, trekking and a range ut dr activities. On the ridge and peaks f Kinnaur muntains, Asia's great religins and races c-mingle given rise t a vibrant-tribal sciety that inhabits sme f the mst scenic glaciared valley in the Himalayas. Clurfully attired and given t merry-making in time gne by, Kinnauri's thrived n the trade alng the famus silk trade rute f Central Asia. Muntain's are high enugh t stp the nrthern advance f the annual mnsn cluds and fast flwing streams merging int the fast flwing Satluj river are the dminating physical features f the regin. A traveller visiting here can nly marvel at the deft hand f the creatr. The district is cvered by fertile valleys and climate cnditins with favurable altitudes. Kinnauri apples, almnds, dried apricts (lcally called chulis) grapes and raisins, 'Chilgza' and the lcal cgnac 'Angn', beans and jeera are as much sught after as their wlen prducts which include gundmas (kinauri wlen blankets), patis (Pure wlen clth) and Kinauri shawls. Wmen f raw beauty laden with turquise and ther precius stnes rnamented in silver alng with their menflk have survived mdernity t keep tribal culture alive. Places f Interest in Kinnaur Tuching the brders f Tibet and China, the Kinnaur has many beautiful and wnderful destinatins fr turists. 240

34 Recng-Pe Recng Pe is the district headquarters f Kinnaur district. It has a gd market and has fine view f the Kinner Kailash Peak. Kalpa Beynd Recng-Pe at distance f 7 kms. Kalpa ffers a cmanding view f the Kinner-kailash. The lcal revere the peak f Kailash as the mythical abde f Lrd Shiva because f a 79 feet tall rck frmatin that resembles a shivlinga. The changing clurs f this frmatin during the day mesmerize even an atheist. Kalpa is a beautiful land f apple rchards. Ribba Just 35 km frm Pwari n N.H. 22 is famus fr its rich chilgza frests and the vineyards have prduce grapes ut f which the lcal extract the ne f finest Kinnauri cgnac (angri) Nak Nestling amidst twering peaks at an attitude f 2950 meters, the untuched Nak Lake and seemingly half buried huses all arund are extremely fascinating. Sumdh Sumdh is the last village f Kinnaur. A restricted army rad frm here ges t the Ind-Tibetan brder pst f Kaurik and a state highway thrugh Hrling village is the gateway t Spiti Valley. Sangla The village in the Baspa valley high up in Himalayan cuntry, crwned with lfty peaks in Kinnaur lies sheltered Sangla at the altitude f 2680 metres, ne f the mst picturesque valley's f Himachal. It is the mst rmantic and beautiful valley in Kinnaur. The sangla is famus fr Saffrn fields apple rchards, Tibetan handicrafts and carpets and fr the mst beautiful carved wden temples in the valley. In sharp cntrast t the rugged muntains arund, the flra in the valley is lush. Well chiseled terraced fields with fruit laden rchards, 241

35 frests f Oak, cedar, blue pine, alpine shrub and pastures, amidst snw cvered perennial peaks cnjures up an image f a Shangri-La-Pass. The rich pls f trut fish in the icy cld water f Baspa will seduce any angler. Beynd Sangla village, the valley pens up. Chitkul in its lnely ambience, happens t be the last inhabited village in the valley. Other places f interest in Kinnaur include Nichar, Khab, Lippa, Mrang, Ph Rakchhan, Asrang, Le, Change and Tapri are hme t a rich cultural life. (5) LAHAUL-SPITI DISTRICT Lahauli-Spiti became a district f Himachal in 1960 and is ne f the frntier districts f India. Kelng is the district headquarter f Lahaul Spiti. The tw valleys at Lahaul and Spiti have a tenuur link ver the Kunzam pass. Fed by the twin rivers f Chandra and Bhaga, the Lahaul Valley is enclsed by the greater Himalayas n the Nrth, Pir Panjal n the Suth and the Spiti Chandra watershed n the East. Silvery cnes f mighty muntains, lush green fields f ptates and peas and Fizzy white streams f purest water, are the captivating features f the landscape f Lahaul. A Beautiful view f Lahaul Valley 242

36 Besides peaks, rivers, muntains and lakes, the ther dminating land feature f Lahaul is its glaciers. The glaciers Bara Shigri, Chtta Shigri, Samundari, Snapani, Gangstang and Perad are the dminant nes. The 29 mnasteries lcated in this regin replete with murals, thangkas, wd carvings and ancient scriptures are rich treasures f Buddhist traditin. Keylng It is 117 kms. frm Manali. A fair sized village amidst green fields f barley and buckwheat, Keylng is surrunded with brwn hills and snw peaks. Five kilmeters frm Keylng is the Kardng Gampa the largest mnastery f the regin. The multi stried structure with huge prayer wheels, huses a rich cllectin f Buddhist nianuscripts, thangka paintings and ld musical instnaments. Trilkinath and Udaipur These are tw imprtant places f pilgrimage in the Pattan Valley. Bth Hindus and Buddhists wrship in Treilkinath Temple, which has sme exquisite carvings. The twnship f Udaipur is lcated at the distance f 3 km. frm Trilkinath. The Hindu temple f Mrikula Devi at Udaipur is famus fr its impeccable wdcarvings. Spiti VaUey Gelgically and archelgically, Spiti is like a living museum, The 150 kms, wide valley ffers unparalleled panramic view right frm the rigin f spiti River right up t Pare Chu stream near Sumdh. Munt Gya (6794m) twering abve the nrthern head f the valley is the highest peak in Hinaachal. Pin Valley The Pin Valley belw the Kungri Glacier Sheltering the high attitude Pin Valley Natinal Park. It represents the bi-gegraphy f the trans-himalayan cld desert with its characteristic flra and fauna. Endangered species such as the precius snw lepard, ibex, blue sheep ther rare species are its habitats. 243

37 The large variety f indigenus medicinal herbs that help sustain the ancient Amchi (Tibetan) system f medicine add much t the cultural and flristic significance f this natinal park. Kaza The sub-divisinai headquarter f Spiti is at Kaza (3660m) and it is abut 410 km frm Shimla. The nearby Hikim, Kmik and Langja mnasteries can be accessed frm Kaza. On a cnical hill near Kaza is the mystical Kye-Gmpa, where Budha's fire serman is still preached by a large number f mnks and nuns. One f the imprtant mnasteries f Spiti, kye has a rich cllectin f sacred Thangkas and an array f musical instruments. Tab Tab is famus fr its Tab Gmpa, which is a heritage site, it is prtected and being resrted by the archaelgical survey f India. The ld sectin f the thusand year ld large mnastic cmplex cmprises f 23 chrtens and 9 temples. Abunding in splendid wall paintings, this mnastery is ften termed as the "Ajanta f the Himalayas." Chandra Tal near Kunzam pass and Suraj Tal belw the summit f the Baralacha pass in the Lahaul divisin f district Lahaul and Spiti. Dhankar Lake, that lies a few kilmeters abve the mnastery f Dhankar in Spiti. The natural splendur f these lakes attracts the m.st f turist in Lahaul and Spiti valley. The mnasteries f Lahaul and Spiti are rich repsitries f Budhist icngraphy aninted in ancient murals, tankhas, wd carving and glden images f Padmasambhava. Spiti's well knwn mnastries are Tab, kye, Dhankar and thse f lahaul are Guru Ghantal n the Chandra river bank, kardang, shashru, Gmpa, Tayur, Gemur. These mnasteries have served t keep Buddhism, alive in the valley. (6) CHAMBA DISTRICT Chamba valley, perhaps the lveliest in Himachal, is knwn fr its scenic attractins, sparkling streams, lakes, meadws and lush dedar 244

38 frests. Crwned with high muntain ranges, Chamba, rich in wildlife is hme t animals like the elusive snw lepard, ibex, brwn bear, and the musk deer. Chamba twn, the Charming beauty is situated at the altitude 996 metres, n the bank f river Ravi, knwn in the ancient Vedic literature as Iravati n a flat grund. There are Laxmi Narayan temple, Bhuri Singh Museum (which has lt f cllectin f this regin's art), a Chaugan (flat grund n the bank f Ravi river where peple sit, relax and enjy) and ld place f the Raja Sahil Varman. Chamba knwn fr the splendur f its temples and handicrafts, is replete with artistic masterpieces. Evidence f Chamba's heritage can be seen in the famus cllectin f miniature painting frm the Kangra, Bashali and Chamba schls at the Bhuri Singh Museum, as well in the murals and ther artifacts at the Rang Mahal palace..^jw^iii,. i. Laxmi Narayan Teniple, Chamba The Hari Rai temple near the chaugan knwn fr the fur armed brnze statue f Lrd Vishnu (Chaturmurthi) is a master piece in metal craft. Katasan Devi Temple:- A ppular place f pilgrimage with the temple premises being an excellent vantage pint fr a view f Chamba Valley. 245

39 Khajjair It is ne f the mst scenic saucer shaped plateau and is surrunded by dense pine and dedar frests. Its beauty has further been enhanced by a small lake in the centre with a flating island and a temple f Khajjair deity. There is plenty f wild life in the frest and the area has been brught under wild life sanctuary. There is a 9 hle Glf grund here. It is knwn as the Gulmarg f Himachal Pradesh. Sari Landscaped gardens, a sheep breeding center and an apiary make Sarl an interesting place fr picnics. Sah Here is an ancient stne temple f 'Randrasekhara' famus fr the Lrd Shiva which has the mn fr a crwn. Salni Salni lcated at a distance f 56 kms frm Chamba has sme f the mst awesme views f the Greater Himalaya snw ranges. Bhandal Bhandal is a lush green place. This is the meeting pint fr the brders f Himachal and Jammu and Kashmir. This beautiful valley is rich in Himalayan flra and fauna. Bharmur Bharmur remained capital f the princely state f Chamba during 7^ century. Abut 69 kilmeters frm Chamba, this fascinating little twn surrunded by high ranges was then knwn as Bharmur. Life in Bharmur centers arund the Chaurasia-a temple square which wes its name t the 84 shrines built within its periphery. With varying architectural designs these temples were built between the seventh and tenth century. Bharmur is knwn as the hmeland f Gaddi Tribe, wh are seminmadic and spend the summer n the Himalayan pastures, grazing their sheep and gats. This place can als be used as base camp fr 246

40 shrt trekking rutes. A sub-divisin f Muntaineering and Allied Sprts Institute is als wrking here, which rganises trekking/muntaineering prgrammes and prvides necessary assistance and guidance t the trekkers and muntaineers. Manimahesh It is an imprtant place f pilgrimage 34 km away frm Bharmur. Beauty f the slitary Uardmahesh Kailash Peaks reflected in the quite water f a turquise Muntain Lake evkes a spntaneus prayer amng pilgrims wh visit the spt annually. The Manimahesh Shikara style temple is ne f the mst ancient and beautiful shrines in Himachal Pradesh. Chhatrari The Shakti Devi temple lcated at Chhatrari, 40km frm Bharmur is f great archaelgical imprtance. The brass idl f the gddess is in the Kashmiri style. Kugti Kugti pass n the challenging trial t Lahaul frm Bharmur, this is the last inhabited village in the picturesque valley. Overlking deep cnifer frests Kugti, has a little frest rest huse. Pangi Valley Pangi is the huse f beautiful peple and f clurful flk dances. The headquarter f the Pangi Sub-divisin is at Kilar. Lcated in deep, narrw hills by the Chenab river. Beynd the reach f trpical mnsn rains, the valley is ne f the last ff-beat challenging turism destinatins in the state. Dhalhusie Dalhusie lcated in the uter slpes f hill Dhauladhar range is anther imprtant hill resrt in the district. The twn is named after the 19^ century British Gvernr General Lrd Dalhusie. The twn's varying altitude shades it with a variety f vegetatin that includes stately grves f pines, dedars, Oaks and flwering rhddendrns. 247

41 Rich in clnial architecture, the twn preserves sme beautiful Churches. The late Prime Minister Jawahar Lai Nehru, has said, "One f the finest hill statins in India is Dalhusie frm the pint f view f beauty, climate and agreeable surrundings. Fr my part, 1 wuld rather g t Dalhusie than almst any hill statin in India, Kashmir apart". A splendid walk frm the main pst ffice square leads up t a spring knwn as Satdhara which als has sme panramic views f the snw capped muntains acrss. Clse t the twn, and n the rute t Panjpulla are seven springs f Satdhara, knwn fr their medicinal prperties. Panjpulla is a pretty spt, where water frm natural surces flws under five bridges. A five Kilmeter ppular walking circuit thrugh Bakrta Mall, Bakrta Hill ffer splendid muntain views. Other interesting places are Bara Pathar, Dainkund and Kalatpe which makes this place turists paradise. (7) KANGRA DISTRICT The district f Kangra is criss-crssed by muntain ranges and valleys. Dharamshala is the headquarter f Kangra district. Kangra, ne f Himachal's mst beautiful valleys, rlls dwn the suthern edge f the magnificent Dhauladhar ranges, in gentle slpes that are cvered with lush green frests f pine, rchards, tea gardens and terracced fields. Dhauladhars, the white ranges, rise up t 14,000 ft. frm the valley flr. Much like a massive wall prviding a dramatic back drp t the sthing panramic landscape. T the nrth, the impsing Dhauladhar range flanks the valley, and Dharmasala clings t its side. A little steam engine, n the Pathankt-Jgindernagar line, Chugs its way up fr bidding inclines trailing a leisurely handful f caches, which is quite a draw fr visitrs. This valley ffers many sight seeing places, temples, frts and tea gardens. The turists spts are nw being develped in this valley t attract mre dmestic and freign turists. 248

42 Dharmashala Dharmashala is a beautiful and peaceful twn spread at different levels and surrunded by frests f pine. Dharmashala prvides a range f interesting activities fr the visitrs. Dharmashala is a hill statin with great variatins in altitudes, temperature and character, making it a ht favurite fr many visitrs. A giant prayers wheel rnaments the main street and in the mnastery, a serene statue f Lrd Buddha presides ver the gentle chanting f the mnks. The Dalai Lama resides in Macledganj, and this has turned Dharmshala int the Buddhist capital f the wrld. It has the schl f Tibetan studies with rare manuscripts and ancient text, the Tibetan institute fr the perfrming Arts and Handicrafts. A visit t the state Museum is a must see fr turists interested in Kangra painting. The fllwing places are f turists interests surrunding the Dharamshala. Places f interest surrunding the Dharmashala. (a) Triund Situated abve Macledgenj, t get Triund, ne must vercme the steep gradient. Just belw the snw line is Triund a ppular picnic and trekking spt with a breathtaking view and a lvely rest huse. (b) Chinmaya Tapvana Situated n a hillck is the recently established 'Ashram' cmplex by Swami Chinmaya Nanda, wh was a great expnent f the Gita. It is a beautiful place t visit. (c) Bhagsunath Bhagsunath is well knwn fr a water fall and a small shrine that lies at the end f an easy walk frm the Macledganj bazzar. (d) Chamunda Devi Temple Nt far frm the twn is a famus temple with the Dhauladhars frming a majestic backdrp. It is an enchanting spt with a glrius view f muntains. This temple is situated n the right backdrp, this has an idl f gddess Chamunda. 249

43 e) Dal Lake The picturesque Lake is a scenic picnic spt surrunded by frest f pine. A gd base fr trekkers, with a clurful annual fair held every September. (f) Kareri A scenic spt with a rest huse lcated in the cl depths f a pine grve. The beautiful Kareri Lake, just 13 km. away frm the spt, is set amidst green meadws and frests f tall Oak and pine, at an attitude f 3250m. (g) Masrr Masrr is knwn fr its mnlithic temples. There are fifteen mnlithic rck-cut temples in the Ind-Aryan style. Richly carved as the great temple f Kailash at Ellra in Maharashtra. (h) Trilkpur A cave temple dedicated t Lrd Shiva is famus fr its stalactite and stalagmite frmatins. (i) Nurpur It is famus fr an ld frt and temple f *Brij Raj Behari' the image accrding t legend was wrshipped by 'Meera Bai'. The frt is in ruins nw but still has sme carved relief wrk f stne. (j) Dharamkt This viewpint lcated n the Dharamkt hills ffers a panramic view f the Kangra valley and surrunding Dhauladhar peaks. Kangra Kangra is a charming twn lcated just 17km away frm the Dharmashala in n f the prettiest valleys f the Himachal. Brimming with lush green terraces and rchards, it verlks a gushing stream knwn as Banganga. Kangra was knwn fr its magnificent temples and as a thriving centre fr arts, in particular, the exquisite Pahari style f Miniature painting that flurished during the reign f Raja Sansar Chand. Just utside the twn is a beautiful temple. 250

44 It is renwned fr it is legendary wealth and 0^C^.'^^'-iS craftsmanship. Dedicated t Brajeshwari Devi, invaders frm the nrth systematically attacked this temple and Mhammed Ghazni is knwn t have lted a king's ransm in gld silver and jewels in the year It cntinues t be a busy place f pilgrimage. Even tday Kangra is famus the wrld ver fr its astunding beauty. Brajeshwari Temple Surrunded by splendid valleys, it is dted with several ancient shrines, make it a destinatin hard t resist fr any traveller. A visit is an experience t be remembered. Jwalamukhi This ppular place f pilgrimage is accessible frm Kangra (30km). The ancient temple, built against a wded spur, has a dme that was gilded by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Pilgrims cnsider an eternally burning flame emanating frm a hllw rck in the sanctum t be a manifestatin f the gddess Jawalaji Mata. The temple cmes alive with Nawratra celebratins and clurful fairs during March-April and September- Octber every year. Palampur It is a fascinating spt in the Kangra valley, surrunded n all sides by tea gardens and pine frests. The place enjys a salubrius climate and invigrating pine santed air is believed t be gd fr health. Palampur huses tw very imprtant institutins-agriculture University and CSIR cmplex. Neugal Khad situated clse t palampur, is the dramatic Bundla chasm where the river spills thrugh the grge in 251

45 Splendid fury during the mnsns. The 'Saran kalia van Vihar' is anther interesting place wrth a visit. Andretta The charming village nce hme t the famus painter Sardar Sbha Singh and play Wright Ms. Nrah Richards, is n^n a centre fr varied artistic activities. This presents an excellent view f the Dhauladhar Range. Baijnath The Shiva temple at Baijnath is ne f the mst remarkable mnuments f the Kangra valley. Baijnath is ne f the 'twelve Jytirlingams' f the cuntry. Every year during the shrivratri fair, thusands f pilgrims descend n Baijnath t enjy the clurful fair and festivities. Bir and Billing Sheltered by the muntains and surrunded by tea gardens, this village is a famus its Buddhist mnasteries. One f the best aer sprt sites in the wrld. Hang gliding pilts use it as their landing site. Billing is 14km frm here; cnsidered an ne f the finest take ff pints in the wrld fr lng gliding. Png Dam Png Dam named Maharana Pratap Sagar, is ne f the mst imprtant wetlands in Nrthwest India. The reservir was frmed in 1970 by the cnstructin f a large dam build t generate pwer, regulates the supply f irrigatin water t Rajasthan and lastly the cntrl mnsn flding in the Punjab. Apart frm bustling with nature and wildlife, the Maharana Pratap sagar has its share f ancient temples t. It is an ideal destinatin fr and nature lvers as well as hikers and trekkers. Pragpur Gari prvides several essential services alng with traditinal craftsmen. Kangra Valley is mst suited fr adventure sprts activities and nature lvers situated at a wnderful lcatin sheltered by the massive Dhauladhar range f muntains, rich in culture and histry. 252

46 (8) HAMIRPUR DISTRICT Hamirpur having inherited its name frm a descendent f a great Ktach lineage Raja Hamir Chand, has relatively been explred little by turists. It huses sme f the finest jewels cnnected with the rich legacy f the regin. The lanes, temples, frts and palaces f Nadaun and Sujanpur Tira still ech with stries abut Maharaja Sansar Chand Katch, ne f the greatest Katch rulers, wh had sught refuge at these places while fighting his adversaries. Sujanpur Tira Sujanpur Tira is nly 25km frm Hamirpur twn. The histric twn f Sujanpur Tira is knwn fr its palace f Raja Sansar Chand Katch. On a nearby hill at Tira is a temple dedicated t Chamunda Devi that still attracts a large number f devtees. At the suthern end is the temple f Gauri Shankar, Murli-Manhar and Narbadeshwar. Every 'HW clurs were added t the waters f a huge tank within the frt which used t be celebrated with enthusiasm. The festival is still ppular in the regin. Nadaun This twn came int prminence when the Kangra ruler shifted their capital here after they lst Kangra frt t invading armies. The scenic beauty f Nadaun in vicinity is legendary with a saying recrding it as "he wh ges t Nadaun, why shuld he return?' The turbulence f the Beas having calmed near Nadaun prvides excellent river rafting sites, and with the king f fishes 'the Mahaseer' amng its water excites all anglers. Markanda It is lcated in district Hamirpur, 6kms away frm Dera Parl n the bank f Kunah Khad is the place f Markandya Rishi. A natural water spring is als lcated here. The fair f Markanda is als famus. 253

47 Bhta It is lcated at a distance f 15 km frm Hamirpur twards Bilaspur. The place is famus fr Radha Swami Satsang Religius trust. (9) MANDI DISTRICT Mandi is situated n the banks f river Beas is the picturesque twn f Himachal Pradesh. Mandi is said t be built n the principles f Vastu Shastra, with the architecture f the twn having besigned fr harmnius living. Add t this the air f spirituahty that pervades this 'Kashi f Himachal,' the hme f numerus temples, and ne has a pilgrim's delight, fr Mandi. Despite its antiquity, it caters t the 21st century turist with adequate amenities t make a visit cmfrtable. Bhtnath Tample is mst famus shrine, is als said t be the funtainhead f the riginal settlement. Legend has it that it was here that the phenmena f a cw, washing a shivalinga with milk that was released f its wn accrd, ccurred. Lrd Shiva appeared t Raja Ajbar Sen, the ruler f the area, and tld him that the shivalinga was a manifestatin f himself as 'bhtnath'. Lrd Shiva's blessings led t the building f bhtnath, a temple in the shikara style, and the grwth f the fledgling twn f Mandi in the 12^^ century. The temples f Mandi are largely dedicated t Lrd Shiva, Trilkinath Temple, Panchvaktra Temple, Ardhanarishvara Temple all these depicts shiva in this cmpsite frm, depictin f three head Lrd Shiva in Trilkinath and five headed in Panchvaktra Temple. Syamakali Temple lcated n the Tarna Hill, which was built by Raja Syama Sen and dedicated t the gddess Kali. Numerus ther temples and palaces are elquent mnuments f the rich past f the twn. Rewalsar Twenty-five kilmeters frm Mandi twn at a height f 1360 meters abve sea level Rewalsar is famus fr its lake. Surrunded by lush verdant scenery and a cmfrtable day trip frm the Mandi. This ppular 254

48 picnic spt is sacred t the Hindus, Sikhs and Buddhist alike. The three Buddhist mnasteries, set n the banks f the lake are wrthy f a visit. There are als three Hindu temples here, which are dedicated t Lrd Krishna, Lrd Shiva and the Sage Lmash. A gurdwara was built here in 1930 t cmmemrate the mnth lng visit f Guru Gbind Singh in Prashar Lake This beautiful lake set at an altitude f 2780 meters, is held sacred t the sage Prashar. Framed by snw-capped peaks and lking dwn n the fast flwing river Beas, the lake lies 46 km frm Mandi. Lake is famus fr its three tired pagda temple dedicated t the sage after whm it is named. Several camping sites are lcated here and it is the base fr numerus treks. Jgindernagar Jgindernagar is a heritage village f Mandi district at a distance f 55km. A quite retreat, the twn is the gateway t the thickly wded, unspiled Bart valley famus fr its wildlife and angling. The area hsts the annual paragliding festival and internatinal paragliding meets at Bir Billing. Clse at hand is the Nargu wildlife sanctuary hme t a variety f species such as mnal, musk deer. Himalayan bear, a visit t the herb garden f Jgindernagar is als highly recmmended. Janjehli The scenic Janjehli valley, 86 kilmeters frm Mandi, is a tranquil and calm peace, the beauty f which is engendered by its lush surrundings and sthing greenery. The valley can be used as the base fr a variety f treks t places like Chindi, Karsg, Shja, Sunder Nagar. Sarkaghat, Bart, Balichwki and Manglr are famus fr trut fishing. Pandh reservir and Sundemagar barrage are als fund quite suitable spts fr turist attractin n KuUu highway. 255

49 (10) KULLU DISTRICT The Kullu-Manali turist cmplex is spread in the entire Kullu valley which is lavishly gifted with superb scenic wealth Kullu, als knwn as 'Valley f Gds' has numerus temples. Kullu valley ffers a scenic charm f peaceful wded glades and rivers thrugh the rcks. The Dashehra festival f Kullu is wrld famus. Kullu, which is lcated n the bank f the river Beas is the central pint f this turist cmplex. The running Nrth t Suth, the main river valley is nly 80 km lng and 2 km. at its bradest, yet a fairly wide area is pen t the visitrs t enjy the spectacle f variegated muntain scenery. The dedar-fringed grassy maidan, Dhalpur is a stage fr many clurful fairs. -Just ne kilmeter up hill frm the bus-stand at Sultanpur is the Temple f Lrd Raghunath, the chief deity f the area. The Shrine f Vaishn Devi, a cave temple n the Kullu-Manali rad, is anther imprtant shrine dedicated t the gddess Vaishn Devi. The Bhuvenshwari Temple at Bhekali, the Temple f Lrd Vaishnu at Diyar and the 8^^ century Vishneshwar Temple f Lrd Shiva at Bajaura 14 km frm Kullu is the lngest and mst attractive temple in the valley, famus fr its intricate stne carvings. Rupi Palace f Sultanpur cntains sme fine examples f the Kullu style f miniature paintings, characterized by simple rural scenes and the lack f human subjects. Kullu is famus fr a wide range f handicrafts. Clurful hand wven brders f the traditinal Kullu shawls and caps are famus wrld ver. Mufflers, scks, pashmina shawls, Tibetan carpets and Thanka paintings are ther ppular items f this regin. Jagannath Temple Jagannath temple situated at a distance f 3 kms. n a stiff climb, is ne t the shrine frm where ne gets a panramic view f Kullu twn. 256

50 Bijli Mahadev Temple Bijli Mahadev Temple is situated at an altitude f 2460 metres and 12 kms. frm Kullu. This is ne f the mst striking temple in KuUu, a beautiful meadn with an ancient shiva temple, famus fr its stne Shiva-Linga which shatters each time lighting strikes it, nly t be resurrected by the pujari. The prspect frm Bijli Mahadev is enthralling with a panramic view f the Kullu and Manikaran valleys. Few culd als visit the Palani Fall which lies five kilmeters t the nrth f Bijli Mahadev and is a ppular picnic spt. Kishandhar and Shja:- A delightful spt fr a quiet hliday where ne can cmmune with nature. Shja lcated n the Kullu side f the 'Jalri pass' has the marvelus scenic surrundings. Its wded frests, rivers streams and wild flwers prvide a quiet break fr thse wh just want t absrb nature's beauty. Kasl situated at 42 kms. frm Kullu n the bank f Parbati river in the parbati valley. Kasl is charmingly an pen space, which slps dwn t a brad expanse f clear white sand at the edge f the river. Manikaran Situated at a distance f abut 45 kms. frm Kullu in the Parvati Valley, Manikaran is a famus turist destinatin. It is als assciated with Lrd Shiva and his divine cnsrt, Parvati, wh lst and recvered her earrings here. This place is famus fr ht water springs. Thusands f peple take a dip in its ht water. Manikaran is revered by bth Hindus and Sikhs. Amngst the nte wrthy shrines here are the ancient Sri Ramchandra Temple famus fr its walls, the Shiva Temple and the Sri Guru Nanak Dev ji Gurudwara Manikaran prvide the base fr challenging treks t the Pin-Parvati Pass. Katrain Katrain is an ideal site fr spending a quite hliday in slitary splendr and fr hlding yuth camps and rallies. This destinatin is 257

51 situated n the way t Manali and has acquired prminence due t apple rchards, a fruit research statin and trut hatchery. Larji The Larji Lake is lcated at the gateway t KuUu valley and has created what a described as the cuntry's lngest 2.8 kms lng Larji traffic tunnel, n the Mandi Leh highway. As such, this artificial lake is set t becme a new midway stpver, where fish, migratry birds and water sprts can be tapped fr the turists heading fr Kullu, Kullu- Manali and Lahaul-Leh Ladakh. Larji is patrnised mstly by anglers. Manali Manali with its unspilt scenic grandeur is extremely ppular with the turists, fr a lavish display f natural scenery. It is ne f the principal shw places f the Kullu regin. Manali is a ppular resrt fr all seasns and fr all travellers. At the lwer elevatin and in every directin there are vivid green patches f grassland and evergreen valleys ascending in irregular frmatin present prbably the best view in cuntry. Accrding t legend, the place where Manali is situated, the great Hindu-law-giver 'Manu\ after the great deluge, first stepped n the earth frm the celestial bat at a place in this land. A small temple dedicated t Manu still exists in Manali village. The nearest airprt t Manali is Bhunter at 50km distance. There are a large number f famus turist spts surrunding Manali which make it paradise fr turists visting Manali cmplex. Hadimba Devi Temple This temple dedicated t the Gddess Hidimba, the wife f Bhima, has a fur tiered pagda shaped rf with a drway carved with figures and symbls. The beautiful architecture f this temple with an exquisitely carved dr is ne f the high pints f lcal craftsmanship. Jagatsukh- It is famus fr its Shiva Temple in Shikhara style and interesting ld temple f 'Gayatri Devi' and 'Devi Sharvali.' 258

52 Vashisht This place is famus fr its ht water springs and temple f vashisht Rishi and Lrd Rama. It is lcated n the bank f Beas river. Arjun Gufa- The Arjun Gufa a legendary cave near the village f 'Prini n the left bank where Arjun practised austerities t get the pwerful 'Pashupat Astra weapn. Prini village prvides an excellent view f the area. Kthi A beautiful and quiet spt. The rest huse here verlks the narrw valley and cmmands views at the muntains. The bridge n Beas river prvides an interesting histrical episde in early annals f Kullu. This place is famus fr mvie picturisatin and resting resrt fr pets, writers and lvers f peaceful envirnments. Tibetan Mnastery A new but clurful Buddhist mnastery built in the 1960s. It cntains with it many idls f Buddha. This mnastery is famus fr its wall painting, chrtens and a large statue f Lrd Buddha. Naggar Naggar, a lvely village set n a hill surrunded by frests was the capital f Kullu in the 16^ century and the munments in the regin are winters t its glrius past. It is als knwn fr its castle and the 'Nichlas Rerich's Museum'. There are a large number f famus temples cmmands an extensive view and an excellent place fr a lnger stay. Slang Valley A beautiful valley between Manali and Kthi which ffers views f the glaciers and snw cvered muntain peaks. The winter skiing festival is rganised here as well as training in skiing is imparted at this place. Slang is knwn fr adventure sprts like skiing' paragliding and trekking etc. 259

53 Rhtang Pass The wnder land Rhtang is the gate way t the Lahaul and Spiti Valley that ffer a wide-spread panrama f muntain scenery. Rhtang pass situated at a height f 3978 meters, at a distance f 51 km frm Manali. The Beas river rises near the crest f Rhtang frm a blck f Mica Schist. T its left, 200 meters higher, is the little lake f Dashir (Sarkund) visited by a large number f turists every year. The bath in the water f Sarkund is believed t cure f all bdily ailments r imaginary. Marhi, a beautiful picnic spt befre Rhtang Pass, where almst everyne stp fr refreshment. The Rhtang Pass is pen frm June t Octber each year. Rhtang Pass ffers a variety f winters sprts-skiing and sledging. The Kullu district has anther face f rchard-valleys like Dalash, Bagipul, Oat, Sainj and Jalri pass, which ffers sme breathing landscapes and panramic views f natural beauty. (11) Una District The present Una district until 1^^ Nv., 1966 was ne f the tehsil f the Hshiarpur district f Punjab. Cnsequent upn rerganizatin f Punjab, all the hill areas including Una tehsil was transferred t Himachal Pradesh. Ever since, until September, 1972 it cntinued t remain as tehsil f the then Kangra district. Una district is prminent as a transit twn fr travelers whse destinatin is Dharamsala twn r any ther Himalayan settlement. Una district is als the ancestral hme f the descendants f the first Guru f the Sikhs-Guru Nanak Dev Ji. There are many attractive places in Una district. These are as fllws: Bangana Lathiani Piplu This area falls n the Una Barsar-Hamirpur rad. Piplu is situated n the tp f Sla Singh Dhar frm where the view f Gbind Sagar is fascinatin. This area attracts turists during winter seasn especially, when they prpse t visit ther religius places like Jgi Pnga and Naina Deviji. 260

54 Chintpumi Temple It is lcated n Dharmashala-Hshiarpur rad n a ridge. Thusand f devtees visit this temple. In additin t many religius festivals, the main fair is held during the 10 days f *Shukalpaksh" in August. There is a Yatri Niwas which is managed by Himachal Pradesh Turism Develpment Crpratin. Dera Baba Bharbhag Singh The place has famus Gurudwara where thusands f Sikhs visit every year t receive the blessing f Baba Bharbhag Singh, wh was a saint and established this gurudwara. It is abut 40 kms frm Una twn. One can reach this place by bus r by train upt Una r by air upt Chandigarh and Jalandhar. The Gurudwara is situated n the tp f the hill and is surrunded by eucalyptus trees. A famus fair als knwn as Baba Bhar Bhag Singh Mela is held here in the mnth f February in hnur f Bar Bhag Singh Ji wh was renwned f his magical pwers. (12) BILASPUR DISTRICT In 1948, when Himachal Pradesh was taken ver under the central administratin n 12^*1 Octber by an Act f the Parliament the, 31^ state f Bilaspur which was till then a separate entity under the cntrl f Chief Cmmissiner, was integrated with Himachal Pradesh n l^t July, It has fllwing famus turists destinatins : Bhakra Dam The highest strength gravity dam in the wrld situated in Naina Devi sub-tehsil abut 14 kms frm Nangal twn. The height f the dam is 226 metres, length at the tp is 518 meters and width 9 meters. It has a 261