Hills and Green valleys of India

NOTABLE NAINITAL"An aerial lake town"

2019-08-10T01:36:00.000+05:30

NAINITAL

A perfect and most popular hill station of Uttarakhand with some majestic view points offers perfect picturesque view over the magnificent Himalayan Range.Nainital is set in a valley around an eye shaped lake,where according to the legend,the Goddess Sati's eyes had fallen.Nainital has mesmerizing remnants of its colonial past with some mythical legends.

The breathtakingly hill station situated at an elevation of 2084 meter(6837 feet) above sea level surrounded by hills,lake,historical temples which is situated in the KUMAON region of uttarakhand.

History of Nainital

In the colonial Times Kumaon and and Garhwal areas were occupied by the British rulers thereafter in 1815 E Gardiner was appointed as the commissioner of kumaon. The second commissioner of Kumaon Mr. G W Traill,was the the first European to Visit Nainital.

Later, in the the year 1839 a British Sugar Trader Mr P Barron and his friend strayed into the hills while hunting.They got lost in that place and in that process they spotted a wonderful place.

MR P Barron was so fascinated by the place and left his sugar business to built a European colony on the Banks of Naini lake.Thereafter in 1841,the discovery of the Nainital appeared is an issue of the "Englishman Calcutta".The offices gradually started to shift here and a formal Nainital municipal corporation was formed in 1850 to provide basic facilities to the residents.

Things to do in Nainital

Naini lake

The Nainital is named after the Naini lake speaks highly of its significance and is surrounded by seven majestic mountains and is major tourist attraction in Nainital.The lake offers a breath taking view and is a treat to the eyes for early morning and sunset

Sattal

Sattal is another excellent Picnic spot for tourist with seven lakes with each in a different hue of green and blue.the group of lakes is set amidst dense forests of oak and pine trees.Sattal that suggests the seven lakes is a scenic place which exhibits provincial surroundings with the delightful atmosphere.

Sariyatal

Sariyatal is a small but very alluring lake located at a distance of just 5 km from Nainital.This is almost heart shaped lake is quite appealing with its blue flickering water and with serene environment.

Khurpatal

Khurpatal is one of the several inland water bodies that adorn the landscape of Nainital.this lake serves as the source for several natural springs that provides fresh groundwater for consumption by residents.

Bhimtal

Basically bhimtal is a small town which is situated around 20 km from Nainital.It is famous for the resort which is situated in the middle of the lake.the simplicity and serenity of the environment makes this place a must if you are planning for Nainital.This Island resort is around 91 meters from the shore of Bhimtal and it Bhimtal covers larger area then Nainital with serene and pristine beauty.

Naukuchiatal

It is a picturesque lake situated around 25 km from Nainital and 6 km from Bhimtal.This Place also acts as an Inhabitation for numerous birds species.One can do here some activities like paragliding, boating, swimming and parasailing also this is the only lake which offers fishing for tourists.

Tiffin Top

This place is around 4 km from Nainital gives you the glimpse of Himalayan Range and be a witness of the most awe-inspiring moment.One can explore the Tiffin top with horse Riding.The ride starts from a designated place Bara Pathar.Rock climbing,Rappelling are also conducted in the Tiffin top area.

Snow view point

The snow point does justice to its name.Offers a snow covered mountains tops emerging from clouds and different shades of sunlight and a mirror like glare from far away.Located just 2 km away from Nainital city center with majestic view of these hilltops making it one of most visited sightseeing places in Nainital.Snow view point offering its visitor an exceptional,incredible and bewitching view of the snow capped NANDA DEVI PEAK,NANDA KOT PEAK,TRISHUL PEAK.

Hanuman Garhi

You will feel the freshness and positive energy in the divine air after reaching at Hanuman Garhi Temple.The enchantic temple bells and scenic views will surely hypnotize you in this beauty.Experience the most beautiful golden sunset here.

Ropeway

If you want to get some enthralling experience with the mesmerizing views of mountains and beauty of Nainital city from bird's eyes view then ropeway is perfectly suits your desires.This will give you a complete view of the city and connects Mallital to the town to the snow point.

Governor's house

The Governor's house of Nainital builts in 1924 gives you the feelings of Buckingham Palace London.This two story mansion has 113 rooms however visitors are only allowed in its golf course and vast lawns.This majestic building still maintains its charm and you can several types of flora and fauna.

Jim corbett national park

For those who are wild life lover then jim corbett is the best place for them.The largest Tiger reserve with on the oldest national park in India situated around 65 km from Nainital.Sprawling across a large area, Jim corbett is the home to many species of animals and birds.This place is adventurous and full of excitement.If you could be lucky then you can spot a tiger or else enjoy watching other animals.

How to reach Nainital

Road

Nainital enjoys excellent road connectivity with several cities and small towns of India.Daily Bus service is available from Delhi and kathgodam.

several travel operators operates bus like air conditioned,sleeper so you can choose according to your convenience.boarding an overnight bus is the most convenient way to head to Nainital.one can hire a cab/taxi from Delhi(345 km) and it will take 7 to 8 hours for Nainital.

Railways

The nearest railway station is kathgodam which is situated at a distance of 34 km from Nainital.Kathgodam railway station have a good connectivity with Delhi,howrah and lucknow.You can hire a cab/taxi from Kathgodam railway station to the city of Lakes Nainital.

Air

Nainital does not have airport connectivity.The nearest airport is pantnagar but operates mostly chartered flights.but there is one flight of air india in the morning 9:55 from Delhi airport to pantnagar so One can take flights for Delhi airport and then for Pantnagar or Hire a cab/Taxi or book a seat in a volvo and head towards Nainital.

Old Memories of Nainital

DELIGHTFUL DALHOUSIE "A Charming Hill Station"

2019-08-03T15:24:00.002+05:30

Dalhousie

Dalhousie is a hill station which is situated in the western Himachal pradesh .It is situated at the western end of the Himalayan ranges of the DHAULADHAR .On the other hand Dalhousie is the combination of five hills (Kathlog,Potreys,Tehra,Bakrota,Balun) between height of 1970 meter(6460 feet) to 2743 meter(9000 feet) facing the PIR PANJAL ranges of Himalayas. We can feel the rich colonial heritage from its name DALHOUSIE.

One of the hill station which is not so much commercialized like other hill stations (Shimla,Manali) of Himachal Pradesh and surrounded by lush green oak and pine trees which you can see everywhere in Dalhousie. One can see so much spectacular things which attracts the tourists.Snow capped peaks,Tempting climate,colorful valleys,old British buildings,ancient Temples,colonial buildings,churches everything that makes it unique from other hill stations.

DALHOUSIE in Winters

History of Dalhousie

In the year 1854 sir Donald McLeod of the British empire suggested that this place be named after the famous Vice Roy of India LORD DALHOUSIE. After that in 1861 Dalhousie was recognized as a part of Gurdaspur district.

Lord Dalhousie stayed in India in between 1848-1856. He was involved in the second Burmese war and helped in the annexation of Nagpur and Jhansi in 1854.In 1966 Dalhousie became a Division of Himachal Pradesh. Dalhousie is also a gateway to CHAMBA District,where we can see the traditional Himachal Pradesh.

Things to do in Dalhousie

Khajjiar

Khajjiar in Summers

"The mini Switzerland of India"situated around 22 km from Dalhousie at an elevation of 1920 meter(6300 feet) from sea level.its Melodious environment attracts everyone to visit once in a lifetime.The beautiful grass meadows,dense forest areas and large oak and pine trees makes it a perfect destination among Tourists. Khajjiar get its name by its resemblance to Switzerland given by Willy Blazer Vice Chancellor and Head of Chancery of Switzerland. Khajjiar is among 160 locations in the world which resemblance to Switzerland.

Khajjiar in Winters

Kalatop wildlife sanctuary

It is one of the most famous place to visit in Dalhousie and spread over 30 square kilometers. Its a home to the black Himalayan bears and you may find mountain cat,Jackals,leopards,Himalayan black marten here. Ravi River passes nearby to it and you can see Pine,Deodar and Oak trees on the Kalatop hills.The Sanctuary is located nearby to Chamera Reservoir and Chamba Dam.From the rest house of Kalatop wildlife sanctuary you get to see the stunning view of Pir Panjal range of Himalayas.

Chamba

Chamba is a ancient town of art,culture and named after the daughter (Champavati) of Raja sahilla varman .One can see Sudden Stupas at the side of gullies and the unique Pahari art tradition of the area.Some other visit spot are Bhuri singh museum,old palace or the rang mahal located within the district and can feel the ancient himachal pradesh.

Panjpula

This place is almost around 3 km from the city center.Ideal picnic spot with the breathtaking panoramic views of the surroundings.A Samadhi has been constructed as a form of tribute to Sardar Ajit singh. he was uncle of Saheed Bhagat Singh took his last breath in the Panjpula.

Satdhara water falls

Amazing and beautiful surrounding with the lush green and Deodar and pine trees. Satdhara falls get its white water from seven different spring .According to native people of Dalhousie the water of Satdhara falls contains MICA which contain some medicinal properties helpful for the curing of skin diseases.The refreshing smell of Mud in the surrounding,which makes it alluring and a serene place for the visitors.

St. john's church

The oldest church of the town which have a religious as well as historical significance.This church is basically so much famous among the photographers due to its beauty and history. The church have a library where one can find the books related with its history as well as present of the town.

Chamera lake

Artificial lake which is an important part of Chamera hydroelectric project built on the Ravi River which is the major source of water supply for the neighborhood villages.Beautiful lake Receives a continues water supply from the Ravi river and you can expect climate remains perfect all year around.

Dainkund Peak

Dainkund peak is highly recommended sight seeing place near Dalhousie. Travelers can enjoy the beautiful scene of Ravi,Chenab and Beas River.It tags the highest peak in dalhousie 2755 meter from sea level.Distance from Dalhousie are 15 km or 45 minutes.

How to reach Dalhousie

ROAD

Pathankot is well connect by all the transportation including railways and Airport. Dalhousie is 75 km away from Pathankot. One can take taxi/cab for pathankot,Dharamshala,Chamba,Kangra. The Local buses will charge around 150 INR for Dalhousie and Taxi/Cab will charge you around 3000 INR because they charge for a round trip.

AIR

Where ever you are just take a flight to Pathankot airport and then get a bus or taxi/cab for Dalhousie which is 80 km away from Pathankot airport.

Railways

The nearest railway network to Dalhousie is Pathankot which is around 80 Km away and is well connect with the major cities Delhi,Amritsar by railway.from Dalhousie get a local bus or Taxi/cab.

Glimpse from the old memories of Dalhousie trip(Khajjiar)

Some Important Tips

If you are looking for a complete retreat in solitude then you should head towards khajjiar and book your stay here instead of Dalhousie.
Do not expect for a normal temperature Every time.Even in summers light woolen clothes may be require for early mornings and late evenings.
For winters carry heavy woolen clothes with you because temperature can drop to freezing point.
If you are planning in monsoon then carry an umbrella.

MELODIOUS MUSSOORIE "Queen of the Hill stations"

2019-07-30T14:47:00.000+05:30

MUSSOORIE

Mussoorie is one of the Delightful hill station in India.when you are around here then you will instantly understand why people calls it"The queen of the hill stations" It is situated at a height of 1880 m(6170 feet). If you are planning for any vacation and adventure in north India then it is incomplete if you have not kept Mussoorie in your mind.

History of mussoorie

The victory of Garhwal and the Dehradun in 1803 by the Gurkha,under Umer Singh Thapa then the existence of the Mussoorie took place.After some time the British security came to know about the expansion behavior of Gurkha and their interest have clashed with the expansionist behavior of Gurkha. Then the war held out between GURKHA and British Rulers on 1 November,1814 and then Dehradun was evacuated of the Gurkha by 1815 and took on the district of Saharanpur by the British in 1819.

Before the British Rulers there were only shepherds who used to get their animals grazed on the "MANSUR" Shrub which gives the town its name mussoorie which we pronounce at a present time.

During the British rule Mussoorie was a healing Center for the soldiers and established in Landour,then after some time the two town soon merged.

Mussoorie was never an official summer capital like Shimla a hill station in the state of Himachal Pradesh which was the summer capital of British Indian capital and even unlike Nanital The summer capital of the united provinces government in British india. Mussoorie always remains unofficial with an air of informality and a tradition of Romance."THE HONEYMOON CAPITAL OF INDIA"

Things to do in mussoorie

Kempty Falls are around fifteen km from the center of the town.This eye catching waterfall flowing down the rock face from twelve metres above.The waterfall is so much popular and it host around a million tourist every year.so plan a trip to Kempty falls wisely and avoid peak times(june,july,august).

Gun Hilltop gets its name from a gun that used to be mounted on the top which was fired at noon everyday during the colonial times,so people could set their watches to the right time.Now a days no gun on the top but you can feel breathtaking views of the Garhwal Himalayas At over 2020 meter(6640 feet) it is the second height point in that area.

Benog Wildlife is a part of Rajaji National park.Here you can found a variety of rare bird species.It is the perfect place for those who really love nature and birdwatcher.It will involve hiking and trekking so you can get in and around the century.Its a four hour walk each side from the Library.If you are lucky then u might see some Himalayan Bears,dears and even Leopards.

River rafting yes some people still don't know that they can also enjoy rafting near Mussoorie,Stretches along Alaknanda,Dhauliganga and Kali rivers from Barkot to Lakhamandal and Damta to Yamuna Bridge near mussoorie.

Paragliding in Mussoorie operates by the Mussoorie paragliding operators.It is one of the best destinations for paragliding in India.They offer rides on a two Seater glider operated by the professionals.it is surely the easiest offbeat thing to do in Mussoorie. It does not need any prior training and one is never too young and never too old for it.

Lal Tibba is the highest point in mussoorie and have an amazing route so you will come across to Tempting view of the Hills.The best way of exploring lal tibba is to walk hardly 1 km from Char Dukan..one can relax for about an hour and see the awesome view of mussoorie and can take close look at the peaks like Badrinath,Kedarnath,Banderpunch etc. with telescope which was installed in 1967 by municipality.

Mussoorie Library established in 1843 and the oldest literary landmark in the hill station.Library is present on the first floor of a building which is beautifully tucked between the "Laxmi Narayan Temple""Gurudwara Singh Sabha""Amania Mosque" and "Christ Church".The architecture of the library speaks about the colonial association of the building.If you are a book lover then you must check out this place.

An old Picture defines the Kempty Falls from a random Restaurant

How to Reach Mussoorie

Road

Mussoorie is well connected with most of the towns and cities of Uttarakhand and Buses/taxi/cab easily available from the major destinations of uttarakhand(Dehradun,Haridwar).One can get Luxury and Normal from ISBT Delhi.

Railways

The nearest railway station is at Dehradun at a Distance of 36 km and is well connected with the major railway stations of India and Buses/taxi/cab are easily available from Dehradun railway station to Mussoorie.

Air

The nearest Airport from mussoorie is Jolly grant Airport which is around 60 km in Dehradun.Buses/Taxi/Cab are are available for Mussoorie.

Some Important Tips

Mussoorie welcomes you with a pleasant weather in summer but it is advised to carry some normal woolen clothes as you might require them when you go to places that are at a relatively high altitude.
Dehradun to mussoorie road are really curvy with Sharp turns so carry some medicine if you are a prone to motion sickness.
Parking will be a major issue for your car in peak seasons.so make sure that you reach on time as its difficult to find a parking.you can park you car at Library private parking,Library MDDA Parking or picture palace landour market road MDDA parking.

TEMPTING TOSH "A hidden gem in Himachal Pradesh"

2019-07-26T00:57:00.000+05:30

TOSH

An incredible hill station in the north of India with a Melodious behavior where people wants to go for a calm and peaceful environment.the native people of TOSH really have a friendly behavior.its a beautiful village in the beautiful hills.people can go there for a beautiful weekend and some magnificent views to create some energy for their next week at office.Basically tosh is a hidden germ in the beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh.

Its splendid green hills and snow packed hills makes it the ideal place for those who just wants to spend some time with the lush green and snowy mountains of the incredible nature.

HOW TO REACH TOSH

If you are a bike rider and wants to see the hilly view then hire a bike/taxi/cab or ride your own bike/car from Chandigarh and head towards to your Destiny Tosh.Remember you can ride your bike/car to Barshaini and there you have to park your vehicle.

Chandigarh to Bhuntar
Bhuntar to Kasol
Kasol to Manikaran
Manikaran to barshaini

⇰ After Barshaini enjoy one hour trekking to reach TOSH

⇰ Bhuntar have a domestic Airport and is located on the banks of River Beas. One can take flights for Bhuntar and then hire a bike/taxi/cab for TOSH.

⇰ Another way to hire a Bike/Taxi/cab from Bhuntar and head towards TOSH.

⇰ One can take the local bus service from Bhuntar to Manikaran at a regular interval of one hour.

⇰ Hire a cab/Taxi or go with a sharing cab from Manikaran to Barshaini.

⇰ Travelers can choose the option of private or government transport buses from Chandigarh to Bhuntar.

THINGS TO DO IN TOSH

Trekking is so much popular among those backpackers who usually visit TOSH.

Tosh valley trek is popular small trek in the Parvati valley which leads to the pin Parvati pass trek and Animal pass trek. The Tosh Nallah meets the parvati river at Pulga coming from the north.Initially Tosh valley trek start with a narrow valley but as you comes up you will feel the several beautiful meadows along the Tosh valley trekking.The tosh valley trek takes you to the beautiful view of Snow capped peaks Papasura (6451m) and white sail (6446m).

A half way visit to the kheerganga waterfall

Kheerganga is not only a destination also a journey through forest,waterfalls and villages.Those snow capped mountains,sound of water,awesome weather,refreshing environment makes you feel to forget about the crowd and busy life of the city.Kheerganga trek is a place to experience peace in the soothing sights of the great Himalayas.Its a place where people have to visit once in a lifetime so they actually know what is the nature and how beautiful is our nature which we do not get in the cities. Kheerganga is a place where you will feel the most calm and tempting behavior of our nature.the major attraction of the Kheerganga is the hot water bath which is situated at the top.The Kheerganga trek is ideal for all trekkers who are seeking peace in their life.It is advised to check the weather of the Kheerganga before to back your bags because the place receives heavy snowfall and rainfall during the seasons.

Hot spring water in manikaran sahib gurdwara

Manikaran has one of the most scenic natural hot springs out of approximate 350 found in India.Actually here is pool of water that gets heated naturally/geothermally as it emerges from the earth's crust. native people of Manikaran says that the water have healing properties.The hot spring water covers the area of around 1 km and situated on the banks of the parvati River whic flows across the town.when the water leaving the spring then it is too hot so it kept in a pool for quite a while to make it suitable for bathing.

Tosh is a heaven for the party lovers,some party hosted in the valley near tosh

Every new year some party are hosted by different groups.Their prices are vary with the organising groups between 1000 to 6000 INR rest depends on booking if you are booking early birds then they will cost you little bit less. sylvester gathering is one of the best parties to celebrate new year in kasol and also the hype music festival that brings to you an international DJ line up to rock the floor.Those night carnival includes live acts,Barbeque,Bonfire,camping,Flea market and Trippy decors that would make your party even more exciting and enthusiastic.

Wandering along Parvati River

Take a deep breath and feel the enthusiastic behavior of Parvati river offers the enchanting view of high rising pine trees on either side of its banks.Delightful and Pristine surroundings acts as a soothing balm for ravaged and worn out souls who come in search of peace and wants to see a heaven then its a perfect place for them.Walk along the Parvati River and and listen to the prevailing silence and hear the perfect calming noise of River water and forget about the stress which one can usually get in their busy lives.This walk is said to be so pure that heals anyone from inside out.

Israeli food

Kasol is abound by the HIPPIES and ISRAELI

travelers.When you are in Kasol do not think about the fancy restaurant.Street side cafes serve you excellent Food. Kasol is flocked by young Israelis.If you want you can eat outdoors and there will not be any dirt threatening to get into your food in the pristine valley.Here you can savour delectable delights like Falafel,Hummus,Shawarma and do not miss the chocolate brownie of the German bakery. some amazing cafes like Buddha palace,Jim morrison cafe,moon dance cafe where one can enjoy Israeli food.

NOW LET WE KNOW SOME INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT TOSH

Height - Tosh is situated at a height of 2400 m (7900 feet) above sea level.

Houses - Tosh have traditional houses around 99% of them are made of wood.

Winters - Tosh remains covered by snow from December to march.

Temple - There is a temple of Jamdagni rishi which is open only once a year. (January,February)

Income - Mostly from tourism and herb or we can say Tosh cream.

Festival - Namaste festival and mostly its kept by Israelis also known as psychedelic parties.

Some Important tips

Always carry cash with you.Closest ATM in Manikaran which is around 16 km from tosh and second closest ATM in Kasol which is around 4 km from Manikaran.
Before Leaving for Tosh take a comfortable pair of shoes.There is a lot of walking in Kasol and trekking from Barshaini to Tosh
Put some warm clothes in your backpack even in summers temperature tends to drop during the evening.
The hills are steep and have a lot of curves so driving can be a little dangerous in that places so one must be careful.