PAONTA SAHIB , and its surrounding

Surrounded by sal forest and on the banks of river Yamuna, the historic town of Paonta Sahib (350m) was founded by the Tenth Sikh guru, Guru Gobind Singh. When only 16 years old, the Guru left Anandpur Sahib and on the invitation of Raja Maidini Prakash of Sirmour, lived at this beautiful spot for over four years. The historic gurdwara commemorates his stay and interestingly the water of the Yamuna fall silent below this which happened at the Guru's behest. The word Paonta means 'Space for a foothold'.

ACCESS : Paonta Sahib is connected by road. From Renukaji. It is 81 km via Nahan and 60 km via Rajban. From Dehradun, it is 44 km. The closest railheads are at Ambala and Dehradun. The nearest airports are at Chandigarh and Dehradun. Taxis/buses are available for Paonta Sahib at all places.

CLIMATE : In winter, the temperature can hover around freezing point when heavy woolens are required. Summer temperature are high and cottons are recommended.

PLACES OF INTEREST

GURUDWARA PAONTA SAHIB : This site was Guru Gobind Singh's home for over four years and it was here that he wrote the Dasam Granth. Within its precincts are the Sri Talab Asthan where he disbursed salaries and the Sri Dastar Asthan were he judged the turban tying competitions. At the Kavi Darbar Asthan, poetic symposia were held. There is also a memorial to sage Kalpi and a museum that displays pens and weapons of the period among other artefacts.

YAMUNA TEMPLE : This ancient shrine is immediately below the gurudwara and is dedicated to the goddess Yamuna.

GURUDWARA SHERGARH SAHIB (22 km) : This is built on the hillock from where Guru Gobind Singh shot arrows at the enemy.

GURUDWARA BHANGANI SAHIB (23 km) : This commemorates Guru Gobind Singh's first battle when he defeated Raja Fateh Sahib and his allies.

SHIVA TEMPLE, PATLIAN (4.5 km) : Surrounded by fields and sal trees, the linga in this temple is supposed to be steadily increasing in size.

SHRINE OF BABA GARIB NATH (8 km) : Located in a sal forest and with an excellent view of the area, the shrine is revered by childless women.

RAM TEMPLE : Within Paonta Sahib the temple is located near the Yamuna bridge. With exquisite marble work built in 1889 in the memory of Raja Pratap Chand of Kangra by his wife who originally belonged to Sirmour. The Kirpal Dass Gurudwara is just part of the temple.

GURUDWARA SHERGARH SAHIB (12 km) : At this spot Guru Gobind Singh beheaded a dangerous man eater tiger with a single swipe of this sword.

SIMBALBARA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY : 12 km off the main Paonta Sahib - Nahan road, this is known for a variety of bird life.

SIRMOUR (16 km) : Here are the remains of the old capital of the princely state of Sirmaur. The town is said to have been destroyed by flood in the 11th century, when it was cursed by a dancing girl.

NAGANUMA TEMPLE (16 km) : Built in a hollow near the village of Purulia, this temple is closely allied with the legend of Sirmour erstwhile ruling house.

KATASAN DEVI TEMPLE (30 km) : Also known as Uttam Wala Bara Ban, this is on the Paonta Sahib - Nahan road. The Shrine is revered by local people. At this spot, the forces of Sirmour defeated the marauding armies of Ghulam Qadir Khan Rohilla.

NAHAN (45 km) : Built in a series of interlocking circles, this charming town was founded by Raja Karan Prakash of Sirmour in 1621. It has numerous pleasing walks, several temples, a gurudwara and interesting architecture.

FOSSIL PARK SAKETI (60 km) : This was the site of the largest fossil find in the Shiwalik hills. The park has a museum and life size models of animals that once roamed these tracts.

BALASUNDARI TEMPLE, TRILOKPUR (63 km) : Legend has it that the Devi's pindi appeared in a bag brought by a local trader. The temple was built by Raja Deep Prakash of Sirmour in 1573. Close by is a recently built Shiva Temple.

ADVENTURE AND FISHING : The most popular trek in the area is to the 3,647 meter high Churdhar - which poetically translates as the "Mountain of the silver bangle". Fishing is possible on the Giri and Yamuna rivers near Paonta Sahib.

RENUKA JI

RENUKA JI

The Renuka Lake (660 m) is regarded as the embodiment of Renukaji, the wife of sage Jamadagni and mother of Parshuram, one of the ten Avatars of Lord Vishnu. Shaped like a profile of a woman, the lake has the circumference of 2.5 km and is the largest in Himachal. This placid stretch of water is fed by underground springs and the surrounding hills are padded by lush forests that support a large variety of plant and animal life. Boating and trekking are the additional attractions of Renukaji, whose natural beauty has to be seen to be believed. This is perfect year around destination that beckons every traveler.

ACCESS : Renukaji is connected by road. It is 315 km from Delhi. The nearest rail head is at Ambala (95 km) Dehradun (105km) and Chandigarh (95 km). The nearest airports are at Chandigarh and Dehradun. Taxis/buses are available for Renukaji at all places.

CLIMATE : In winter, the climate is pleasant and light woolens are suggested. Summer temperature are high and cottons are recommended.

PLACES OF INTEREST

RENUKA LAKE : Legend has it that when the evil Sahasrarjun killed the sage Jamadagni and tried to abduct his wife Renuka. She flung herself into the water. The gods restored her to life and this lake is regarded to be her embodiment. There is a row of temples along its banks, and a track encircles the water. Boats are available on hire next to the hotel.

PARASHURAMA TAL AND RENUKA TEMPLE (100M) : At the base of the Renuka lake, this large pool is considered to embrace Lord Parshurama, who wished to spend all eternity at his mother's feet. Reportedly built overnight by an invading force of Gurkhas in early 19th Century, the original temple of Renukaji is here. Both mother and son are reunited every year at a celebratory fair held in November.

JAMU PEAK (8 km) : Above the lake is the peak where Rishi Jamadagni is said to have meditated. A footpath leads to the peak. There is a small temple and it offers an excellent view of the lake and surrounding area.

MINI ZOO (2 km) : You can boat across the lake or drive to this zoo, which has Asiatic lions, spotted deer, lion tailed macaques, 'Nilgiri' Methuen, barking deer and Himalayan black bears.

LION SAFARI (2 km) : Adjoining the zoo, an armored van enters the large enclosure allowing for a close glimpse of the lions within.

JATAUN (5 km) : The dam of the Giri Hydel Project is here and angling for Mahseer (river carp) may be done.

#DARLAGHAT and its surroundings......

ACCESS : By road, the hotel is 41 km from Shimla. Regular buses / Taxis are available from Shimla. The Airport is at Jubbarhatti (Shimla) 57 km and the nearest narrow gauge railway head is at Shimla 41 km away.

CLIMATE : In winter, the temperature can drop near to freezing point when moderate woolens are required and in summers, light woolens / cottons are recommended.

PLACES OF INTEREST

DARLAGHAT (1800 m): Just 2 km far from the hotel, the place is famous for pollution free Gujrat Ambuja Cement Factory.

DURGAGHAT (1790 m): On Shimla - Manali State highway. Famous for Durga Temple on the top of the hill.

ARKI (17 km): Once the capital of the princely State of Baghal, Arki witnessed a good measure of turbulence in this area. Arki became the stronghold of an encoding force of Gurkhas, furring the Gurkha wars that came to an end in 1815-16. About 1850, Raja Kishan Chand had the fort decorated with fine murals executed in the Pahari style. Here is a place with history and adorned with fine art. A temple of Lutroo Mahadev dedicated to Lord Shiva is also worth seeing (7 km on foot).

HARSINGH TIBBA: This peak is situated about 20 km, north east, at an altitude of 2445m. One can travel by taxi or buses upto village Chanawog (1834 m) and a further 4 km climb upto the peak. On the top is an ancient temple of Dev Harsingh. The peak also offers spectacular wide view of Satluj valley and the river including Shimla Hills.

BARIDHARA (22 km): At an altitude of 2140m this is a beautiful place for trekking and sight seeing. Annual fair called "Bari Jatra" is celebrated on 14th June every year. This day, palanquins of five Pandavas from nearby village being worshipped as local Gods, assemble and meet on the hill. There are also two temples dedicated to Pandavas and Budhi Mata.

SHOPPING: There is an enormous range of goods that Shimla offers. This includes handicrafts, wood and metalwork, shawls, pullovers, local tweeds, caps, Tibetan carpets, pickles, jams and squashes. Himachal Pradesh Govt. operates an Emporium at The Mall, Shimla where all these products are available for sale.

#CHINDI and its surroundings....

Hillsides covered with thick forests, acres filled with apple orchards, small picturesque hamlets and remarkable views in all directions combine to make Chindi (1825 m) and the area around it, one of the most beautiful places in Himachal Pradesh. The area is still off the beaten track and yet, has good facilities in terms of roads, small markets and accommodation. Chindi is an excellent off-beat destination that holds the charms that Himachal is just famous for.

ACCESS : The closest airport is at Shimla at Jubbar-Hatti, 110 km away. The nearest narrow gauge railhead is at Shimla, 87 km away. By road Mandi is 100 km, Rampur via Baina Khud is 92 km, Chandigarh is 204 km and Delhi is 457 km. The road from Shimla passes through Naldehra, Tattapani, Al Chindi and Churag.

CLIMATE : In winter, the temperature can drop to below freezing point when heavy woolens are required and in summers, light woolens / cottons are recommended.

PLACES OF INTEREST

The wide Karsog Valley lies below Chindi and has good excursion spots. Apple orchards add their attraction to the area and Chindi is surrounded by them.

The area has several temples that display a high level of traditional craftsmanship. Some of the important temples are - Mamleshwar Mahadev, Kamaksha Mata, Mahunag, Ardhnarishwar, Aledi Mahadev, Paling at Malagali, the sacred Bhima Rock, Churag temple, Nag Dhamoni at Sairi Bangla, temple at Chatri and the temple of Nag Dhamoni at Saranda.

The hike to Shikari Devi (3359 m) is possible from Chindi. The views from Kunhoo Dhar (23 Km) are spectacular.

NALDEHRA The Asia Highest Golf Course

Located at distance of 22 km from Shimla, Naldehra (2044 m) is a heaven for tourists. It boasts of the oldest 9 hole golf course in the country. The well groomed Golf Course is a lovely verdant, perhaps one of the finest and sporty in India. Crowned with a springing turf the Golf Course was suggested by Lord Curzon. He was so enchanted by the place that he gave his daughter Alexandra, "Naldehra" as her second name. It is the venue of many competitions. The Nag temple is also situated here and Naldehra derives its name from it.

ACCESS : The closest airport is at Jubbarhatti, 45 km away. The nearest narrow gauge railhead is at Shimla, 23 km away. By road Chandigarh is 139 km, Manali is 282 km and Delhi is at a distance of 392 km.

CLIMATE : In winter, the temperature can drop to below freezing point when heavy woolens are required and in summers light woolens / cottons are recommended.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Golf Course Naldehra is famous for world famous Golf Course.

TATTAPANI At 656m, there are hot sulphur springs believed to have medicinal value.

FAGU 22 KM away from Shimla.................and near by places of intrest

Fagu is a tiny village aside a saddle-like mountain along Hindustan Tibet Road. A rare range of views is visible from here, which include vivid dales and snow clad peaks. The picturesque countryside is dotted with clusters of villages, fruit gardens and nearby terraced fields. Fog characterizes the hillside landscape endowed with romantic ambience. Most of the area is covered with conifers of Himalayan cedar and spruce. Located at an altitude of 2,450 m, Fagu, perhaps have derived its name from the fog itself.

ACCESS : The closest airport is at Jubbarhatti, 45 km away. The nearest narrow gauge railhead is at Shimla, 22 km away. By road Chandigarh is 139 km and Delhi is at a distance of 392 km.

CLIMATE : In winter, the temperature can drop to below freezing point when heavy woolens are required and in summers light woolens / cottons are recommended.

PLACES OF INTEREST

KUFRI (4 km): (2510 m) Famous for its ski slopes also have enjoyable walks leading up to Mahasu Peak in proximity. A Nature Park and Mini Zoo are other places worth visiting. Hill ponies and Yaks are available for a joy ride. HPTDC here runs Cafe Lalit.

SHIMLA (22 km): (2205 m) Once a summer seat of British, Shimla is now the state capital of Himachal Pradesh. It has the rarest of the rare heritage buildings and monuments of the bygone area. Worth seeing places are - The legendary Mall Road, The Ridge, The Christ Church, Kali Bari Temple, Jakhu Hanuman Temple, Sankat Mochan, State Museum, Institute of Advanced Studies.

CHAIL (27 km): (2226 m) provides many bounties of nature. Once the summer capital of Maharaja of Patiala, the Kingly Palace decorated with some historical objects as well, is now owned as a Heritage building by HPTDC. Also famous for the world's highest Cricket Ground, Wildlife Sanctuary and Sidh Baba ka Mandir.

NARKANDA (42 km): (2708 m) On the Hindustan Tibet road, Narkanda offers a spectacular view of higher snow ranges. An uphill trek (8 km) through deodar woods leads beholder to Hatu Peak famous for ancient Hatu Mata Temple (3475 m) which is now connected with a motorable road. During winter, under the aegis of HPTDC, skiing is also conducted here. Kotgarh and Thanedhar, Himachal's Apple heartland famous for delicious apples are located in vicinity. HPTDC runs Hotel Hatu at Narkanda.

In and Around Shimla ..................

Blessed with some of the most spectacular and beautiful landscapes anywhere, it is a travellers paradise -lofty snow peaks, deep gorges, lush green valleys, fast flowing rivers, enchanting mountain lakes, flower bedecked meadows, beautiful temples and monasteries steeped in time. May it be for relaxing, sightseeing, trekking, mountaineering, fishing, para-gliding, skiing, ice skating and golf, Himachal has it all...Come Explore Himachal with Rainbow Travel and Events... A quaint little hill train chugs up into the Shivalik foothills, over dramatic loops and high arched bridges to the hill resort of Shimla (2130 m) - the capital of the mountain state of Himachal. Shimla was one a string of hill stations that the British established to escape from the scorching heat of the plains. The 12 km, crescent shaped ridge on which it is located was first occupied by the British troops, in the early part of the 19th century, during the Anglo-Gurkha War. The little village of Shymala, a retreat for British officers, soon grew to become the glamorous summer capital of the British, in India. Shimla's salubrious climate, easy accessibility and numerous attractions have made it one of the most popular hill stations in northern India. The splendid views of the show-clad ranges of the Himalayas, fine walks through oak and flowering rhododendron, enchanting resorts within easy reach, golf Naldehra and skiing at Kufri and Narkanda make Shimala an attractive destination throughout the year. Places to see  The Mall : All visitors to Shimla inevitably walk down the Mall, the main promenade that runs along the top of the ridge-a busy shopping area with old colonial buildings, souvenir shops and restaurants. At the top end of the Mall is Scandal Point, a large open square with a view of the town-a favourite rendezvous for visitors and the local people. Overlooking it is the elegant Christ Church with its fine stained glass windows. The labyrinth of Shimla's bazaars spill over the edge of the Mall. Viceregal lodge : Housed in the Gothic splendour of the Viceregal Lodge is the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, India's premier academy for higher research. Himachal State Museum : Very close to the Institute, in a colonial building set in spacious lawns, is the museum. It has collections of Pahari Miniatures, stone sculpture, local handicrafts, textiles and embroidery. Jakhoo Hill : Hill, Shimla's highest point, is rewarding for there are superb views of the town and its surroundings. At the top is an old Hanuman temple.(2Km). Annandale : Hill, Shimla's highest point, is rewarding for there are superb views of the town and its surroundings. At the top is an old Hanuman temple.(2Km). Glen : A pretty picnic spot beyond Annandale is located in the thickly Wooded Glen , beside a sparkling stream.(4 Km). Summer Hill : The quiett and lovely suburb of summer Hill has secluded, shady walks and charming views. It was here that Gandhiji stayed on his visits to Shimla, in the elegant Georgian mansion that belonged to Rajkumari Amrit Kaur. Summer Hill is located on the Shimla - Kalka railway line.(5 Km). Chadwick Falls : Just beyond Summer Hill is the 67 m waterfall, cascading into a deep gorge. The Falls are best seen after the monsoon.(7 Km). Prospect Hill : A 15 minute climb from Boileauganj, Prospect Hill is another favourite walk and vantage point with breath taking views. There is a little temple to Kamna Devi on the top of the hill.(5 Km ). Sanjauli : A serene location with delightful walks, Sanjauli is ideal for a tranquil weekend. There are fine vistas and the lights of Shimla and Chail can be seen twinkling at night. On the other side, Mashobra and Naldehra are visible. (3 Km) Temples : Among the little temples dotted around Shimla is the ancient temple of Bihargaon - a splendid example of traditional Himachal architecture. Just short of Shimla are the temples of Tara Devi and Sankat Mochan. (8 Km) Daranghati Sanctuary : This sanctuary located in the upper area of the Shimla district has an undisturbed forest area with plenty of wildlife-monal, tragopan, koklas and kalij pheasants and musk deer, ghoral and thar. There is a network of bridle paths in the sanctuary. Visitors are advised to seek assistance from the forest staff posted at Doda and Sarahan. The area is ideal for those who love to trek. Around Shimla Mashobra (2,149 m) Noted for its apple orchards and thick woods of oak and pine. Mashobra is a sylvan retreat with pretty walks and pIcnic spots. A little track leads down to Sipur a grassy glade with a stream wandering through it. Excursions are possible to Shali Peak - the highest point in the area or to Craignano (3 km) with its elegant guest house set in a delightful flower-filled garden. (9.6 km) Kufri (2,622 m) Kufri is a noted summer and winter resort with its glorious views of forested slopes and tall ranges iced in a covering of perpetual snow. A fine ski resort, Kufri has a winter season that extends from January to March. A sparkling winter sports festival is held each year in February. (16 km) Fagu (2,509 m)  Just 6 km from Kufri, Fagu is a vantage point with panoramic views of the ranges and valleys. Picturesquely located amid forests and orchards, Fagu has a rest house and tourist bungalow overlooking the Giri Valley. Naldehra The scenic, nine hole golf course with its springy turf and crown of deodar was laid out at the instance of the Viceroy, Lord Curzon. So enamoured was he by the beauty of the spot, that he named his youngest daughter Alexandra Naldehra. (23 km) Tattapani Tattapani is just 28 km from Naldehra, along a road winding through the scenic country side. The hot sulphur springs here, are hosted for their invigorating and curative powers. (51 km) Narkanda (2,708 m)  A hill road with superb views links Narkanda with Shimla Narkanda, located amidst fragrant pine forests is a ski resort in winter. It has a choice of slopes ranging from a beginners run and a slalom slope, to sharper descents for the experienced skier. (64 km) Hattu Peak (3,300 m) Rising above forests of spruce, the Hattu Peak is a vantage point with spectacular views. (8 km). The pretty orchard country of Thanedar and Kotgarh - beautiful in spring - are not far away. Khadrala and Beghi with their dense forests and Kumarsain with an interesting wooden palace are also within easy reach of Narkanda. Hatkati (1,100 m) In the picturesque valley of the River Pabbar, about 104 km from Shimla, is noted for its historic temple dedicated to Durga. Enroute to Hatkoti is the village of Kotkhai, splendidly located among apple orchards - a village with fine traditional architecture. Jabbal, once the capital of a princely state with its impressive palace is also on the way. Beyond Hatkoti, 11 km away, is Rohru (1,149 m) on the River Pabbar - an excellent spot for angling, with fishing pools teeming with trout. The trout hatchery at Chirgaon, (15 km) upstream, ensures a well stocked river. Rampur Rampur was once the capital of the princely state of Bushair and a major centre on the old trade route into Tibet. The annual Lavi Fair, held in the second week of November, is still an important event for the inhabitants of the region. They gather to buy, sell and barter their produce - homespun blankets, shawls, wool and dry fruits - and to celebrate the event with music and dance. Rampur, on the banks of the Sutlej is on the N.H. 22 - the old Hindustan-Tibet Road that goes from Shimla into Kinnaur. The scenic village of Sarahan with its fascinating Bhimakali Temple is on this road beyond Rampur. (140 km). Getting There & Away  Air Linked by air to Delhi, Chandigarh, Kangra and Kullu. The airport at Jubbarhatti is 23 km from Shimla. Rail It is linked by a narrow gauge line to Kalka which is connected to Delhi, Calcutta and Amritsar by broad gauge. Kalka-Shimla in 96 km and 6 hours by train but only 4 hours by a quaint rail car. Road Shimla is well connected by road to most towns within the state and to all major towns in Punjab and Haryana. It is linked by bus and coach to Delhi and Chandigarh as well. Delhi is 370 km away, Chandigarh 117 km, Kalka 90 km and Ambala 166 km. Within the state, Narakanda is 64 km away, Mandi 156 km, Kullu 240 km, Manali 280 km and Dharmashala 280 km. Bus Service HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) has coaches to all major towns in the area besides Chandigarh and Delhi. General Information  Altitude : 2,130 m above sea level Temperature : Between sub zero in winters and 30 C in summer. Through out the year. Best Season : (Summer/Winter) Clothing : Light Woollens/Heavy Woollens STD code : 0177

Brief About SHIMLA | Himachal Pradesh

The British empire may have ceased to exit, but its echo lingers on in Shimla (2205m). As the Summer Capital of the British in India, Shimla was the country's focus for the better part of every year and now, is the state capital of Himachal Pradesh. Today, it has well developed facilities, easy accessibility and numerous attractions making it one of India's most popular hill resort. Situated in the lower ranges of the Himalayan mountains, it is surrounded by pine deodar, oak and rhododendron forests. Towards the north lie the snow-covered high-ranges, while the valleys breathe whispering streams and swaying fields. Within the town are host of splendid colonial edifices, quaint cottages and charming walks. Shimla offers a variety of shopping, sport and entertainment activities

ACCESS The airport is at Jubbarhatti, 23 km away. Shimla is connected to Kalka by an enchanting narrow gauge railway line where even a quaint rail car ply. By road, Chandigarh is 117 km, Manali is 280 km, Chail is 45 km and Delhi is at a distance of 370 km. From Delhi, Manali and Chandigarh, luxury coaches and taxis ply to Shimla. During tourist season HPTDC also operates regular deluxe buses from Delhi and Manali to Shimla.

CLIMATE In winter, the temperature can drop below freezing point when heavy woolens are required. Summer temperature are mild and light woolens/cottons are recommended.