The most popular lake in Nainital is the Naini Lake which is of utmost prominence in the region. There are some amazing places to visit in Nainital and these are places of great tourist interest.

Places to visit in Nainital

There are many places to visit in Nainital. These places are simply remarkable for their amazing beauty and grandeur. The place is simply awe- inspiring and is set in the pristine lap of Mother Nature.

Some of the popular places to visit in Nainital are the Naina Devi Temple, the Naini Lake, the Mall Road, the Flatts, the Zoo, the Aerial Ropeway and the Governer’s House.

The Naina Devi Temple is the most spiritual place in Nainital. The city derived its name from the name of the temple. There are a number of festivals which are held  in the temple during the festival months and this place is definitely worth a visit. This temple caters especially for those who seek to offer their prayers and spirituality.

The Naini Lake is another attractive tourist destination. The lake is believed to have evolved on its own on the lap of Mother Nature. This lake is extremely beautiful with the mountains on all sides and the stagnant pool of gleaming blue water below. You can sit on the banks of the lake and enjoy yourself. There are facilities of boating in the lake. You can also find some areas to have a picnic or camp there.

The Mall Road is one of the most busiest yet the most happening place in Nainital.  The Mall Road is supposedly the Bazaar or the market place in the town. Great local items and clothes are sold here. Tourists visit this place from all over the world to get some amazing stuff here.

The Flatts is another place which is very popular among the tourists. The Flatts is situated on the northern side of the lake. There are many places here where you can find recreational activities. Bunjee Jumping, rock climbing and boating are some of the favorite activities of the place.

The Zoo in Nainital is located near the Mall Road. This place is simply amazing as the zoo is perched almost at a height of 2100 mts above the sea level. There are a number of animals and birds in the zoo. The Royal Bengal Tiger is one of the most prominent creature here.

The Aerial ropeway is another place of great interest. This is considered to be one of the main tourist attractions of the place. The ropeway is situated at a length from where you can view the Himalayas. The snow capped peaks looks amazing at that height.

The Governer’s House is another important and interesting place to visit in Nainital. This place is also known as “Raj Bhavan”. This building was built in the year 1899 by F.W Stevens. This building is built in the true Victorian Gothic Style. This is simply an amazing place to visit.

Other than these there are a couple of other places where you can visit too. ARIES, Cave Gardens, China Peak, Dorothy’s Seat, Gurney House, Hanuman Garhi, Kilbury, Land’s end, Snow View Point and the St. John’s Church are some more interesting places to visit.

You can also visit the famous and the most popular Jim Corbett National Reserve which is almost an hour and a half away from Nainital. This place is simply awesome. There are some guided tours which is taken from Nainital or else you can also head in Jim Corbett on your own. The most interesting thing about this park is that you get to see a number of tigers and lions which are now endangered in India.

Accommodation

There are a number of places where you can find great accommodation. There are a couple of lodges and resorts in Nainital. If you are visiting Jim Corbett National Reserve, you can head into the forest lodge there.

Dining

There are some amazing restaurants and hotels in Nainital. The must try out is the north Indian food here. It is simply amazing.

Nainital is a great tourist location. There are many places to visit there and many things to do.

The “misty hills, the lush green forests, and acres of tea and coffee plantations” are the main attractions of this place. This place is simply an unforgettable holiday destination in India.

This place is situated on the Western Ghats and has the most amazing mountain slopes, and teak wood forests. The river Cauvery is believed to have been originated from this place. The river here is worshipped by the locals for being their major source of livelihood, as most of the locals are into fishing, and agriculture.

There are a number of places where you can visit in Coorg.

The Madikeri town is one of the most amazing and the most interesting places to visit in Coorg. There are a number of places where you can visit here. The Abbey Falls is a unique waterfall which is located around 1 km from the town of Madikeri. This place is known for its unique coffee plantations and spice estates. The best time to visit the waterfall is in the early winters, because rainfall is pretty heavy here and it is not advisable to visit this place during that time. Other places to visit here is the Raja’s seat, the Madikeri Fort, the Omkeshwara temple and the Gaddige’s tomb.

The next best place to visit here is the Valnoor Fishing Camp. This is an amazing place to be in. You can camp near the lake and stay here and enjoy fishing. Apart from this, other places to visit here is the Chelvara Falls, Kakkabe, and Mallalli falls.

The major attractions of this place are the plantations and the waterfalls. There are a number of waterfalls in the area and is a major place for tourist attraction.

Activities to do in Coorg

Coorg is known to be a place for outdoor activities. This place has plenty to offer. Trekking and hiking are some of the most attractive outdoor activities here. The mountain slopes are an ideal place to trek and hike. Tourists come from all around the world to trek and hike here. Also, there are a number of places where you can camp here.

Other activities

Other than outdoor activities, there are many more which a tourist can do here. Golfing and Angling are some of the other activities, which the tourists engage in here. Other than this, white water rafting is another activity which the tourists love to engage in. The river Cauvery is an excellent spot for rafting and tourists from far and wide come here.

Shopping

Coorg is also an ideal place for shopping. There are a number of local markets in the town and there are many things which you can shop here. Some of the excellent brand of coffee and soap is sold here. Apart from this, honey, cardamom, pepper and oranges are found here.

Dining

The Coorgi food is simply amazing. Non- vegetarians would simply love to gorge on the famous pork, lamb and local fish preparations. Also, dishes made out of bamboo shoot are a major specialty here.

Accommodation

There are a number of places where you can reside here. There are plenty of lodges, and resorts in the town and these are the best places to reside in. Some of these lodges and resorts organize small guided tours for the tourists and the tourists are taken to the surrounding places too.

Coorg is simply the best tourist destination in South India. It is almost 6 hours drive from Bangalore and there are buses available from Bangalore. Also, do not forget to buy the red sandalwood which is a specialty of this place.

One such place in the Eastern part of the country is Darjeeling. Darjeeling is more popularly known as the “Queen of the Hills”. This place is extremely beautiful with its rolling green hills and the lush green meadows. Darjeeling has also been ranked as the World Heritage Site under UNESCO.

Accommodation

There are many places where you can reside in Darjeeling. There are a number of lodges and resorts in the area. The famous Planter’s Club is the most amazing place where you can stay. Apart from this, you can also reside in the sorrounding places.

Dining

The local food is simply amazing there. You can find the best variety of pork and meat in the area. Apart from this, there are other places where you can get some amazing food.

Places to go around

There are many places where you can go around in Darjeeling. The most amazing places are the tea estates and the Hill top, from where you can get to see the entire town.

Places around Darjeeling

Apart from Darjeeling, there are some more places where you can visit. Kalimpong, Mirik and Shillong are other tourist destinations where you can go to.

Kalimpomg is another major tourist destination where you can visit. There are a number of places where you can go there. The famous St. Paul’s School is one of the interesting place where you can head for.

Mirik has a beautiful lake which is known all around East India. This lake is set inbetween the mountains.

These are some of the interesting places where you can visit in Darjeeling. Do not forget to take a ride on the famous toy train which is a very popular activity there.

Darjeeling is a truly remarkable place and there are lots of attractions where you can visit there.

There are amazing places to visit in Shimla. Shimla has the most picturesque locations and is a home to some of the best monuments which have been preserved from the time the British ruled in India.

One of the foremost places to visit in Shimla is the Ridge. The ridge is the most important place. You can get an entire view of the town and the sorrounding hills from that place. There are plenty of eateries and the most famous church of Shimla, the neo- Gothic church stands tall there. Other attractions on the Ridge includes the new Tudor Library and the horse rides. Also, the famous bazaar of Shimla, “Lakkar Bazaar” is there. You can collect souvenirs made of wood from there.

The Himachal State Museum and Library. This place is one of the most interesting and the most attractive tourist destinations in Shimla. This museum houses the famous and the popular sculptures, paintings, coins, photographs and other antiques.

The Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, is another major tourist destination. This is situated in the Viceregal lodge which is an old and ruined building on the extreme end of the Mall, which is a major shopping area in Shimla. This building had been constructed in the year 1888 and still stands today, as a major tourist attraction.

The Mall, forms to be the central and the most important tourist location in Shimla. This is the major shopping destination for the localites and the tourists who are visiting this place from other parts of the country and the world. There are numerous shops lined up from one side of the road which leads upto the point where the mall and the ridge meet. This point is known as the “Scandal Point”. The history behind the name of the place is not known, but this is the most happening place with most of the eateries and banks situated around the area.

Another major tourist attraction is the Kali Bari in Shimla. This temple is owned by a very old Bengali family in Shimla and is known to be a very pious place. Kali is the goddess of eternal energy.

Summer Hill is another important tourist location which is situated at an altitude of 1, 283 meters and is a perfect spot for those who come here for their honeymoon. The scenic beauty and the vast landscape are a perfect combination here.

Among other places, the University of Himachal Pradesh, Tara Devi Temple, the Glen are some of the other amazing tourist destinations.

Accommodation

There are a number of hotels and lodges in the area. The famous Radisson hotel is situated a bit away from the main areas and is a perfect place to reside in. Among other luxurious places, you can go in for the WhiteFlower hotel and the Clarks. There are other reasonable hotels which are situated on the mall.

Dining

There are excellent places where you can dine in Shimla. Devicos, Baljees, Embassy, and Alfas are the oldest and the most amazing places where you can stop.Also, there are a couple of other places where you can get some of the amazing tibetan and chinese food. These restaurants are all located on the mall.

Shimla is a truly amazing place to visit in India. This is one of the most favourite and the popular hill station in India. You can reach the place either by a cab or bus from Delhi and Chandigarh or you can fly from Delhi/ Chandigarh to the nearest airport in Shimla, which is around 15 kms away from the main town.

Popularly, Darjeeling is recognized as the Queen of the Hills, and also is also renowned for its tea production. It is actually a small city that offers amazing beauty of nature and its tea is considered among the finest in the world. The moment one enters the provinces of this small city, they first praises its pleasant climate. The city originally was simply a group of villages, which was administered sporadically by the Nepal as well as Sikkim. This city has then gained prominence in the 19th century, especially due to its climate. Initially, the British established a hill station at the site, which was leased from the Chogyal of Sikkim, and then founded that the area was predominantly appropriate for the plantation of tea.

In the year 1849, the British captured the area and the city then became a fraction of the British India. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was then opened in the year 1881, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town has become effective summer capital of the country in days when the Raj was administered from Calcutta, a city in West Bengal. Being home to the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, the city not only offers natural beauty, but also provides great destination to the tourists who throng here to see and explore the attractions of the city.

The city offers a wide range of activities right from leisurely scenic walks to over exhausting activities like trekking as well as river rafting for the adventurous ones. All you need to do is to catch a flight and reach to the city’s airport that is Bagdogra. It is the closest airport to the city and is also close to Siliguri at a distance of 96 kilometres from Darjeeling. As the city is small, you can simply explore the city by walk and experience the uniqueness that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. One of the best ways to make your time memorable is by taking a share-jeep to Ghoom. Ghoom is the next town that is located up the ridge. Here you can visit and explore some of the fascinating monasteries.

Some of the major attractions and sights, which you can see in the city, are the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Himalayan Zoo, Buddhist monasteries, Japanese Peace Pagoda, Mount Kanchenjunga, DEolo Hill in Kalimpong, Mirik, Tiger Hill, and the Observatory Hill. As the city is among the oldest hill stations in the country, you will be offers with plenty of opportunities and options for every interest whether he/she is looking for a lazy getaway from the hot plains, or the nature enthusiasts as well as adrenaline junkies.

For accommodation, you will get a wide variety of nearly 200 hotels as well as lodges. The city is among the major tourist destination in the country and so remains on its toe to make every tourist enthralled.

Enclosed by dense coniferous forest holding major stately Deodars, the town is split into three parts namely Upper Dharamsala called McLeod Ganj (British and Tibetan site), the middle Kotwali Bazar, and the Lower Dharmsala or Kaccheri area (commercial site). Upper Dharamshala is at nine km from Lower Dharamshala and is at a height of 460 m. Further carrying the distinct points, Lower Dharamsala is the abode of Indians, while the Upper one is that of the Tibetans.

McLeod Ganj is where you will feel as you are in Tibet even after being in India. It is popular across the globe for the annual teachings of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama along with his residence. It is also the home of the headquarters of the Tibetan Government in exile at some two km. Formerly a British hill station, the upper area witnessed the inflow of Tibetan refugees in 1959. Now, Dharamsala is a famous tourist destination.

Legend

Many years ago, when the first hamlet came was formed on the current site, a pilgrims’ rest house was standing, thus giving the settlement the permanent name of dharamshala.

Dharamsala Attractions

• St. John’s Church:
  Situated 7 km uphill from Dharamsala, this church was built in 1852 with a grey stone and some superb Belgian stained glass windows gifted by Lady Elgin. The church is more famous as the church of St. John in Wilderness.
• Chamunda Devi Temple:
  Located at 15 km on the right bank of river Baner, this is the holy shrine committed to the Goddess Chamunda Devi (Destroyer of Evil). According to the legend, the Goddess slayed tow demons – Chand and Mund here. The site is quite charming due to its magnificent glimpses of the mountains, the Baner Khud, Pathiar, and Lahla forests.
• Masrur:
  Located at 15 km south of Kangra, the highlight of this site is the 15 elegantly carved monolithic rock temples of the 8th century – similar to the Kailash temple at Ellora. Within the main temple’ sanctum sanctorum, the images of Lord Ram, Goddess Sita – his divine consort, and his brother – Shree Lakshman are worth visiting.
• Bhagsu Waterfall:
  Located at Bhagsu some 2 km from McLeodganj, the spectacular waterfalls are behind the Bhagsunag Temple. In monsoons, the fall converts into a descend of 30 feet.

• Bhagsunag Temple:
  This is the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva (perpetuator of truth) located at 2 km from McLeodganj Bazaar. It was worshipped mostly by 14 Gukha villages in Dharamshala.
• Kunal Parthi Temple:
  Situated at 3 km from the middle Kotwali Bazaar, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Kalpeshwari. It is so named because of the belief that the skull of the Goddess Sati fell here during her charred body being carried by Lord Shiva – her’s divine consort and she then married him in form of Goddess Parvati.
• Dal Lake:
  Covering an area of 1 km and located at 2 km west of Upper Dharamsala’s bazaar, this lake is enclosed by the beautiful rhododendrons, deodars, and junipers forest. An annual fair is held at the Kali Temple dedicated to Goddess Kali near the Lake. Do also visit another temple of sage Durvasa near by.
• Triund:
  Located at 17 km, this is a trekking destination from Upper Dharamsala in the foothills of Dhauladhar providing some scenic views of the mountains and valleys. Over night stays are usually in hoods.

• Naddi:
  Situated at 5 km from McLeodganj, this is a picturesque spot to have a beautiful vista of the Kangra valley. It is from here that you start your trek to Kareri Lake, Triund, and Guna Devi from here.
• Maharana Pratap Sagar:
  Named so after the great patriot Maharana Pratap (1572 – 1597 AD), the site was formerly the ‘Pong Dam Reservoir’ since 1976. In 1983, it was declared as a wildlife sanctuary with 220 bird species including black – headed gulls, plovers, terns, ducks, water-fowl, and egrets along with other migratory birds from Central Asia. Among the animals, barking deer, sambar, wild borars, nilgai, leopards, and others can be spotted.
• Norbulinka Institute:
  Located at 4 km, this is the Japanese site that was founded to conserve and publicize Tibetan art and culture in exile.
• Nurpur Fort:
  Formerly known as Dhameri, this fort is located at 66 km. It was renamed by the Emperor Jehangir, the son of the Great Mohammad Akbar. Even though it is in ruins, you can marvel at its elegantly carved reliefs.

• Tsug-Lag-Khang (Central Cathedral):
  This is the Main Temple also called the Jokhang located opposite to the residence of the Dalai Lama.
• Dharmkot:
  Located at 11 km from Dharamsala on the ridge of a hill, this is a picnic spot offering a panoramic vista of the Kangra valley and Dhauladhar ranges.
• Moodabidri:
  Located at some 53 km, this is the Kashi of the Jain community and is famous for its 18 bastis. Among them, the most renowned one is the ‘Savira Kambada Basti’ (Basti with 1000 pillars) that was made in 1430 with wonderful monolith columns and invaluable array of jeweled metal images of the 24 Jain Tirthankaras (apostles).
• Venur:
  Located at 30 km from Dharmasthala, this site holds the famous Gomateshwara statue of 1605 built by an Ajila Prince.
• Namgyal Monastery (Victorious Monastery):
  Founded by the Third Dalai Lama, Sonam Gyatso, in 1575; this monastery has aided the Dalai Lamas for the welfare of Tibet.

• The Shrine of Bhagsunath:
  Located at 11 km, this is the ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. You will find several fresh water springs near by that are holy for the Hindus.
• Trilokpur:
  Located at 41 km, this is famous for its distinct cave temples with a stalactite and stalagmites devoted to Lord Shiva.

Best Time to Visit Dharamsala

• Autumn:
  October to November
• Spring:
  March to April

How to Get to Dharamsala

• By Air:
  The nearest airport is Gaggla at 13 km in Kangra that is conveniently approachable via Delhi.
• By Rail:
  The closest station is Pathankot at 85 km that is well connected with many railways lines in India. From here, it is a three-hour trip.
• By Road:
  Luxury buses are available from Delhi, Shimla, and Manali. From Delhi, you need to drive for eight hours.

History

Originally, Gulmarg was named Gaurimarg wherein Gauri refers to the divine consort of Lord Shiva. In the Indian past, the hill station was a resort for the kings such as Yousuf Shah Chak and Jahangir (the son of the Mughal Emperor Akbar). However, Yousuf Shah Chak renamed the place to Gulmarg that literally means the place of roses. Later, it became the ideal summer holiday for the British in India. It were the British who found the town in 1927 at the time of their colonial rule.

Tourists’ Attractions

• Khilanmarg:
  Located at 6 km walk from the Gulmarg bus stop, this is a small valley that allures tourists with a spectacular vista of the great Himalayan range. The meadow here is covered with flowers during the spring when it is suitable for winter ski runs and views of the enclosing summits of Nanga Parbat and the 7,100-metre peaks of Nun and Kun at the southeast over the Kashmir Valley.

• Alpather Lake:
  At the foot of the 4,511 m Apharwat peaks located beyond Khilanmarg at 13 km from Gulmarg, this is a scenic alpine lake that is icy until mid-June with pieces of ice floating even later. To reach the lake, walk from Gulmarg or catch a Pony track along the 3,810 m Apharwat ridge followed by upwards to the valley and then to the lake. If you are confident enough, you can directly climb straight up the boulder slope of the crest and then come down the other side. If you like horse riding, the lake offers a thrilling day’s excursion right from early morning until late evening.
• Shrine of Baba Reshi/Ziarat (Tomb) of Baba Reshi:
  Located on the slopes below Gulmarg, this is the Muslim shrine that is accessible from Gulmarg or Tangmarg. The tomb is the final resting place of a famous Muslim mystic saint since 1480. Prior to the life of renouncement, he was a noble of the Kashmir King Zain-ul-Abidin. Irrespective of the faith, thousands of disciples worship this shrine annually.
• Gandola:
  This is the new cable car that draws visitors to take them up to Kongdori. This is the Asia’s highest and longest cable car project wherein the two-stage ropeway takes about 600 people per hour to/ from the Kongdoori Mountain nearby Afarwat Peak at 4,200 m. In the first stage, the journey starts from the Gulmarg resort at 2,600 m to the Kongdoori located in the bowl like Kongdori valley. On the other hand, in the second stage of 36 cabins and 18 towers, skiers are taken at a height of 3,747 m on the Kongdoori Mountain.

• Skiing:
  Done from November to February generally, skiing is just adventurous here. Hire the skis and sticks, snow boots, woolen socks, mufflers, windproof jackets, goggles, and caps and take the Ski instructors to enjoy the sport. The slopes of the Afarwat Hills of the Pir Panjal Range are among the longest and highest ski slopes in Asia varying between 8,700 and 10,500 feet. It is only Gulmarg that is boats the heli-skiing resort in the continent of Asia. Those who do not have any experience, they can try the ski lifts and the chair lifts.
• Long Walks:
  Nanga Parbat and Haramukh are ideal ones for such strolls. Besides these, watch out for the outer circle where you can enjoy the walk around pine forests and beautiful scenes. Further, the charm of the Kashmir valley is simply captivating.

• Golfing:
  It is precisely this sport that the hill station has been in everybody’s speech since long. Located at an altitude of 2,650 m, the 18-hole green golf course is highest on the planet. The legendary Gulmarg Golf Club was set up by the British in 1911, which was formerly a holiday resort. For a beginner, golf sets are available on hire along with the professionals to instruct and short-term memberships.
• Sledging:
  During snowy winters, a myriad of snow sports are held at Gulmarg each year. Among them, the most famous one is Tobogganing that needs no talent or training wherein a flat wooden board is ascended to the hill and is then permitted to come down. Further, you can try snow scooters and snow bobbing, even that needs no specific skills. You can also hire sledges and sledge-pullers.
• Horse Riding:
  This is the only activity that can be done on all the sites of Gulmarg. You can hire a horse directly or through the Tourist Office.

Best Time to Visit Gulmarg

The peak season is when the snow falls in December to April ideal for skiing and adventure sports. In the summer months of May to September, the tourists do come here due to pleasant atmosphere. So, anytime is preferable.

Gulmarg Accommodation

There are some 40 hotels of all types and budgets. For a night stay in the peak season, expect a range between Rs 500 – Rs 4000 plus. JKTDC (Jammu and Kashmir Tourist Development Corporation) offer traditional huts at Gulmarg that require advance booking during the peak season from Srinagar.

How to Get to Gulmarg

• By Air:
  The closest airport is in Srinagar that is well linked with the major cities in India.
• By Rail:
  Jammu is the nearest railway station.
• By Road:
  Jammu & Kashmir SRTC offers frequent deluxe and ordinary buses from Srinagar. However, in winter, they run until Tangmarg after which the road of 11 km is covered via smaller vehicles. From Srinagar, you can also opt for a tourist taxi.

Leh Ladakh:

Ladakh, a part of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, consists of two Leh and Kargil districts. Due to a strong influence of Tibetan culture, Ladakh is often referred to as ‘Little Tibet’.

Leh district is bounded by Ghanche District (Northern Areas), a small border with Xinjiang, China in the north, through the Karakoram Pass, Aksai Chin and Tibet to the east, Kargil district to the west and Lahul and Spiti in Himachal Pradesh to the south.

Leh History:

Leh came to prominence in the 17th century when King Sengge Namgyal shifted his court from Shey to Leh. During the days of famous silk trade, Leh emerged into a significant centre of trade. Tourism started to flourish in Leh from the 1970s after it was opened for the common people. The old town of Leh has been added to the World Monuments Fund’s list of 100 most endangered sites owing to various reasons.

Leh Climate:

The temperature at Leh can vary between -28 degree Celcius in winter to 33 degree Celcius in summer. Average annual rainfall is around 90 mm. During the winter season that extends from October to March, Leh experiences a cold, arid climate. Occasional rainfall also marks the winter marks.

Time to visit Leh:

June to September is the best time to visit Leh.

Leh Tourist Attractions:

• Shanti Stupa (a collaborative effort between Japan and Ladakh to preserve the relics of the Buddha enshrined by the Dalai Lama). One gets a fascinating view of the beautiful Leh valley from the stupa.

• Leh Palace (one can get a glimpse of Leh’s ancient history from this 17th century marvel)

• Victory Tower (built to commemorate Ladakh’s victory over the Balti kashmiris in the 16th century)
• Namgyal Tsemo Gompa monastery
• Chamba and Chenresi monasteries

Leh fairs and festivals:

• Hemis Festival (the biggest and most popular festival; celebrated in June-July);

• Dosmoche Festival (festival of scapegoat celebrated in February)
• Losar Festival (celebrated to welcome Tibetan New Year)
• Sindhu Darshan Festival (river festival, celebrated in May-June)
• Ladakh Festival (cultural festival celebrated in September)
• Tak-Tok Festival (summer festival celebrated at Gompa cave of Tak-Tok)

How to Reach Leh:

By air:
Leh is served by the Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport. It is one of the highest airports in the world. Leh is connected from New Delhi, Chandigarh, Jammu and Srinagar.

By road:
Leh is mainly connected by Srinagar-Leh (434 km) and Manali-Leh (473 km) highways. These roads are open on seasonal basis. The first road passes through Zoji-la, gateway to Ladakh. Kargil is located about 220 km from Leh. The J&K State Road Transport Corporation operates regular bus services between Srinagar and Leh. The Manali-Leh route passes through Taglang-la, world’s second highest motorable pass.

Leh Accommodation:

• Camp Himalayan Saga
• Chamba Deluxe Camp
• The Grand Dragon
• Hotel Mahay
• Hotel Caravan Center
• Hotel Cho Palace

• Hotel Chube
• Hotel Dragon
• Hotel Gawaling International
• Hotel Holiday Ladakh
• Hotel Khanglachan
• Hotel Namgyal Palace

• Hotel Royal Palace

The landscape varies from verdant wooded mountains, pine forest, stretching meadows, pastures, shimmering streams, and captivating glaciers along with the conifers of deodars, fir, pine, cedar, and junipers known to be sightseeing attraction for the tourist. This has led to a great scope of ideal environment for hiking and trekking. The best way to discover its natural beauty is to hire a pony and roam around with. Some magic is there in its oxygen-rich natural air that is yet pure. The town is unique as it is the only place in Asia growing saffron seen abundant in the month of November. This heart touching town is among the best hill resorts in India, today.

History

This aspect of the Pahalgam is literally unclear. Little known, in the medieval period, Mughal rulers used to run their empire from here and later it got merged into the Kingdom of Kashmir ruled by native Hindu monarchs. Surprisingly, the princely state was autonomous at the time of the British period.

Pahalgam Attractions

• Mamaleshwara:
  Go down 1 km from the town and you will reach on foot to this holy place. What is worth visiting here is the small Shiva Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located on the opposite bank of the Lidder River. The temple is here since the 12th century that marks the time of the rule of the king Jayasima.
• Baisaran:
  This is the most wonderful scenic sight with its rolling meadow enclosed by thick wooded forests of pine.

• Panchtarni:
  Located at 13 km from Sheshnag, this is precisely the place where five streams intersect. From the tourism point of view, it is a good site for camping where all the necessary camping equipment, ponies, and skiing equipments are to be obtained easily.
• Hajan:
  Located on the way to Chandanwari, this is a calm picnic spot for many locals and foreigners. It is also the hot favorite of the Bollywood film makes to shoot movie scenes. Tin date, many scenes have been shooted here.
• Tulian Lake:
  Located at a distance of 11 km from Baisaran, this is the scenic lake located at an altitude of 3,353 m. It is wonderfully ringed by snow-clad peaks and is naturally blessed with breathtaking sights to allure visitors.
• Martand:
  Located at 64 km, this is an ancient temple that is one of the major tourist attractions that draws travelers from wide places. Perched on the tall plateau, it offers a magnificent vista of the Matan village.
• Mattan:
  Located at 61 km, this is globally famous as a vital Hindu pilgrimage centre drawing thousands of pilgrims from the country. Located not far away from Anantnag, the holy town stands on the Pahalgam road.
• Horse Riding:
  Hire a pony either directly or from the Tourist Office to explore different breathtaking scenes and trails. At all vital sites, you can find Tariff boards.
• Golf:
  A golf course perched at 2400 m above the sea level offers fantastic facilities for the sport. The Pahalgam Club offers a 9-hole golf course that is open to tourist play. All equipments for Golf are available at the Tourist Office on hire.
• Trekking:
  The settings of the town are such that they are simply thrilling for the trekking scope. Among them, the ideal one is: Pahalgam – Chandanwari- Sheshnag- Panchtarni- Amarnath Cave Temple – Sonamarg. Other trekking route is the 35 km trail via pinewoods to amazing Kolahoi Glacier via Aru village – a fantastic meadow.

• Shopping:
  Pahalgam is best for natural wool shopping. Do buy some Gabbas and Namdas from its local shops.
• Kolahoi Glacier:
  Located upward on the Lidder Valley and below Mount Kolahoi, this is a hanging glacier and is now hollowed due to global warming the Asian brown cloud, and local factors regarding the mountain hydrology. The mountaineers of the Jawahar Institute of Mountaineering (JIM) in 2008 have recorded its recede by 50 percent since 1985. Its hollowness and its 200 deep crevasses have imposed dangers on its study. One can still here the sounds of cracking from either side of the ice field signifying its future collapse. It is recommend to view it by taking the right side. This trek can make you feel fortunate enough to spot occasional horse or cattle herder for cheese and Kashmiri tea. This adventure of reaching Kolahoi after trekking the Lidder Valley offers some of the most difficult trails in the western Himalaya, but you are truly rewarded for your efforts.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Pahalgam is in the summer that is between mid-April to mid-November. It can also be visited in July-August during the annual pilgrimage to the holy cave of Amarnath.

Fairs & Festivals

The famous event is the holy pilgrimage trek in the month of July/August that is known as the annual Amarnath Yatra (Holy Journey) to worship the sacred cave shrine of Amarnath. Amarnath is the residence of Lord Shiva in the form of automatically rising and melting ice lingam.

Reaching Pahalgam

• By Air:
  The nearest airport is Srinagar located at 95 km from Pahalgam. The airport is well connected to all major cities and towns of India with regular flights connecting.
• By Rail:
  Jammu is the nearest station at 280 km from where regular train services take you to/from the major cities in India.
• By Road:
  From Srinagar, it takes 2.5 hours to reach Pahalgam via a good road in an available bus or taxis.

Auli offers a captivating panoramic view of the towering peaks of the Himalayas such as Nanda Devi, Kamet, Mana Parvat, and Dunagiri, while its slopes are well scoped with thrilling skiing for both a professional and a beginner. The harsh cold winds, the expanse of snow-clad territory, and the sylvan mountains are all what make the town the perfect haven of skiing.

History

It is believed that in the 8th century, the great Guru Adi Shankaracharya had walked on the land of Auli and built the yet existing sacred temple at Joshimath. Since 400 years, the semi-nomadic sects of the Bhotiyas inhabit the region and are also called Thatauli who have flourished the trade with the neighboring Tibet.

In the past, prior a ski resort, its slopes were where the men of valor and courage were trained – typically that of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police Force. To mark one of the legendary peaks around Auli, the 23,490 feet Trishul (meaning the strident of Lord Shiva) was trekked by the adventurous in 1958 that took four days and 90 minutes for skiing down.

Tourists’ Attractions

• Skiing:
  Auli is a paradise for skiers with its three km long slope. The only problem is the uncertain weather where you cannot be sure even at the end of the sport as to whether fresh snow will be there. If you aren’t lucky, you can be facing a snow storm that will keep you lock in your rooms for hours. The pits can be that there is no snow fall for days and that you ski in the presence of rock solid snow that is not at all enjoyable. The slopes are devoid of any construction and that there are only deodar trees and snow sheets. The Skiing Centre was established here in 1984 and now it is the third best skiing site in India. The ropeway from Joshimath, chair lifts, skiing lifts, snow beaters, skiing gear hiring agencies, huts, and restaurants just provide a memorable skiing experience. From the month of January until March, skiing competitions and many events take place wherein the National Championships by Winter Sports Federation of India is a prime skiing event at Auli. The Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam Limited (GMVNL) – a government agency is in charge of the resort and planted the snow beater to assure snow all the time. Here, do not miss the Asia’s longest – 4 km – cable car (Gondola) with a Chair Lift and a Ski-Lift. From December to March, the GMVNL offers a 7-day and 15-day courses for both beginners and advanced skiers.

• Artificial Lake:
  This is the highest man-made lake on the planet located besides the private hotel, Clifftop Club. Built by the government, it was done so with the purpose of making artificial snow on the new ski slopes in case if there is low snow fall. This would be done by feeding the lake’s water into the snow guns perched along the ski slopes, which would provide snow for a good skiing surface.
• Sceneries:
  If you are really tired due to a long journey to reach Auli, the town’s high peaks such as Mana, Kamet, and tallest Nanda Devi along with the 270 degree view will reward you for your wish and effort. Alternatively, when you are done with skiing, in the evening, the ideal way to spend time is to have a grand vista of snowy mountains whose colors changes each minute as the sun sets down the horizon. This is precisely the time to be in solitude and obtain the peace of mind. It was here I understood why the Sadhus (sages) come to Himalayas to meditate.
• Trekking:
  Try some trekking that can be done in a single day – Gorson around 7 km – Tali around 6 km – Kuari Pass around 11 km – Khulara around 12 km – Tapovan around 9 km.
• Snow Boarding:
  This is another famous sport here that allures great throng of tourists every year. Altitudes ranging from 2500 to 3050 m, they offer thrilling snow boarding along with discovery of the magnificent areas of the Garhwal Himalayas. Suitable both for beginners and experienced seekers, it challenges you to conquer the pinnacles of Nanda Devi, Kamet, and Dronagiri between the months of January and March. Necessary equipments can be hired from either Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam or private operators.
• Spiritual Worships:
  The wonderful Mt Nanda Devi at 21,000 ft and the Mt Neelkant are considered sacred. Due to heavy snow fall in Badrinath, the temple there remains closed for five to six months during which the deity of Lord Badri Vishal is kept at Joshimath’s temple. Do visit this temple at Joshimath. Next, a small Hanuman temple is worth visiting that has a legend. According to that, when Laxman the young brother of Lord Rama got injured after a battle in Lanka, Lord Rama asked Hanuman to obtain the herb name ‘Sanjivani’ from the  Sanjivani Mountain in Himalayas to save Laxman. On his way to this mountain, Hanuman had rested here in Auli.
• Joshimath:
  Obtained from the word ‘Jyotirmath’, meaning the place of Jyotirlinga (phallic form) of Shiva; the name of the town was founded by Shankaracharya who made this among the four piths (centres) for sanyasis. Pilgrims for Badrinath take a rest here. It is the holy place for the followers of Badrinath or Hindu Lord Vishnu (perpetuator of life) for it houses the temple of Narshimsha who is an manifestation of Shree Vishnu.

• Indo Tibetan Border Police Training:
  This police force’s duty is to protect at the Indian boundaries by being at heights. They undergo tough training during which it is a great opportunity to pay a tribute to their endurance and skiing talents. The center affords the ideal medical team in case of any emergency that is available to tourists too.
• Hydro Power Project:
  At some 5 km towards Badrinath, you can observe this site where a private company has harnessed the waters of the river Alaknanda and have changed its flow via a big tunnel running under the mountain. The force obtained by doing so aids in generating electricity.

Best Time to Visit

November to March

how to reach auli

• By Air:
  Jolly Grant of Dehradun is the closest airport at 275 km from Joshimath.
• By Train:
  The closest station is at 300 km at Haridwar.
• By Road:
  Long distance buses run between Joshimath and Rishikesh (254 km). Further, buses are also available from Delhi, Dehradun, and Haridwar. After reaching Joshimath, you need to travel further 12 km via a jeep.