Travel Bucket List: India – Himachal Pradesh Part 3

Posted on April 9, 2021 by memoriesandsuch

In this part, we visit some more of the beauties of the state.

Kangra
Historically known as Nagarkot, Kiraj and Trigarta, Kangra was founded by the Katoch Kshatriya Rajputs of the Chandervanshi lineage. Another ancient name of the city is Bhimagar and it was supposedly founded by Raja Bhim, the younger brother of the Kuru Emperor Yudhishthira from the Mahabharata. Kangra is also known for the backdrop of Dhauladar range, ancient temples and endless tea plantations. Repeated mentions of the valley in holy Hindu texts, showcase Kangra as Devbhumi or Land of the Gods. Kangra is a composite word made out of Kaann, meaning ear and gaddha which means creating or molding. The British archaeologist and historian Alexander Cunningham documented and brought to light the tradition and science of Kangra plastic operations. Although, modern plastic surgery uses the same techniques as the ancient techniques developed in South India, for north Indians Kangra’s own unique methods were more popular and accessible.

A beautiful and picturesque lake, the Kareri Lake is known as Kumarwah Lake and is a shallow, freshwater lake that is situated to the south of the Dhauladhar range. Located at an altitude of 2,934 metres above the sea level, Kareri Lake is a popular trekking destination and is frequented mostly by the Gujjars and Gaddis who reside in the nearby villages because of the extensive pasturelands that the lake houses. The lake also boasts of beautiful clusters of dense conifers and different kinds of colourful perennial flowers. The snow melting from the Dhauladhar range serves as the water source for this lake, and the pristine water from the lake then outflows in the form of a stream known as Nyund. One of the major attractions near the Kareri Lake is an ancient temple that is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Shakti located on a hilltop overlooking the breathtakingly beautiful lake.

Situated on the outskirts of the town, the Kangra Fort traces its origins to the ancient Trigarta Kingdom, mentioned in the Mahabharata. It is the largest fort in the Himalayas and probably the oldest dated fort in India. Though the tales of treasures are nothing but stories at this ruined fort, there was a time when the sanctum sanctorum of the Kangra Fort held unimaginable riches which were offered to the large idol in the Brijeshwari temple inside the fort. And perhaps because of these treasures, this fort has been attacked many times with almost every ruler, be it an invader or a native ruler have tried to lay control over the Kangra fort. After Emperor Jahangir captured the fort in 1622, it was Raja Sansar Chand II who finally succeeded in recovering the ancient fort of his ancestors from the Mughals in 1789. It was then handed over to the British occupied by them until it was heavily damaged by the earthquake of April 4, 1905. The fort is open from 9 am to 5 pm every day and Indian visitors pay INR 150 and foreign visitors INR 300 as entry fees.

Spread over a 15-acre forested land surrounded by tea gardens, the Taragarh Palace is situated at the height of 1000 meters at the foot of the Dhauladhar Mountains with splendid views of the peaks covered in snow. This picturesque residential property belongs to the royal family of Jammu and Kashmir and was earlier known as Alhilal meaning the land of the crescent moon. It is a hotel currently and the personal summer residence of the Nawab of Bahawalpur and was constructed in the European-style of architecture with greenery all over in the form of gardens along with a glass pavilion and a mosque. Its name was later changed to Taragarh after the wife of Hari Singh of Kashmir Maharani Tara Devi took over the property in 1950 and converted into a hotel in 1971. The hotel showcases a lot of portraits of the Dogra Royal Family, with Italian marble, chandeliers and tiger skins. After the Nawab of Bahwalpur decided to move to Pakistan, the vast property went to the government of Punjab, who sold it to Tara Devi of Kashmir. The glass exhibition area was converted into a temple and renamed Taragarh. The palace has an entry fee of between INR 4000 to 5000.

Built on the Beas River the Pong Dam is an earthfill reservoir constructed for generating hydroelectricity and irrigation. Constructed in 1975, the dam is based on the foothills of the Shivaliks and is known as the Beas Dam. The area surrounding the dam boasts of rich wildlife and is a breeding ground of commercially viable fish. The reservoir behind the dam, also known as Maharana Pratap Sagar is home to a large number of birds and has been converted into a Bird Sanctuary. The surrounding dense forest cover is a natural habitat for several flora and fauna species which adds to the natural beauty of the place. The region has been declared as one of the 27 international wetland sites by the Ramsar Conventions owing to its rich wildlife and vegetation cover. The sanctuary is home to several species of avifauna some of which include Barheaded Geese, Red-neck Grebe, northern lapwing, common teal, spot-billed duck, Eurasian coot, black stork, egrests, among others. Sprawling over an area of over 240 kms, the lake is also an important fish reservoir which acts as a fish breeding ground for commercial purposes.

The Baijnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva who is worshipped as the God of Healing. Baijnath or Vaidyanath is an avatar of Lord Shiva, and in this avatar, the lord rids his devotees of all miseries and pain. The water of this temple is believed to have medicinal value and the potential to cure several illnesses and diseases, drawing thousands of devotees from all around the world every year. Built in 1204 by two local merchants, Ahuka and Manyuka at a distance of 16 kms from Palampur, it is one of the few temples in India where both, Lord Shiva and the demon King Ravana are worshipped. According to ancient scriptures, Lord Shiva established 12 jyotirlingas, pillars that emanated pure light and unencumbered power, across the country as a challenge to Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma and one of these 12 jyotirlingas rests inside the Baijnath Temple. Set against the backdrop of the Dhauladhar Range, the temple have amazing views. The temple’s architecture hints of an early medieval North Indian style which is popularly called as the Nagara style. There are two entrances, north and south and a vast vestibule in the middle with balconies on either side known as the Mandap before which is a small porch that is based on four columns where the mount of Lord Shiva, Nandi rests. The inner sanctum, where the Shivaling lies, is surrounded by walls that are speckled with artistic drawings and paintings. The history of the temple is inscribed on the stone walls of the complex with inscriptions indicating that before the present temple, a shrine of Lord Shiva rested on the same spot. The temple is open between 6 am and 9 am daily.

The Brajeshwari temple reverberates with mysticism, mainly because of its architecture. It is highly advisable to make it for the Aarti as this temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths of India. This temple was one of the oldest and wealthiest in northern India but was destroyed, together with the fort and the town, by the 1905 Kangra earthquake on 4 April 1905. The Jwala Devi temple is dedicated to Jwala Ji, a Hindu Goddess depicted by a set of eternal flames. One of the Shakti Peethas, it is believed that the tongue of Goddess Sati fell where the Jwala Devi Temple is located. A temple with no idol, the five aartis conducted at Jwala Devi Temple are the main attraction. It is believed that the Goddess resides in the holy flames of the temple, which miraculously burn day and night without any fuel. The flames represent the nine forms of Goddess Durga, namely Mahakali, Annapurna, Chandi, Hinglaj, Vindhya Vasini, Mahalakshmi, Saraswati, Ambika and Anji Devi. The Goddess is offered the sweet Rabri. Located 1 km from the temple is Jwalamukhi Cave which previously had three openings but today only has one and is filled with the water of a spring. The temple is open from 5 am to 10 pm during summer and from 6 am to 9 pm in the winter months.

The hilltop temple of Chamunda Devi Temple is one of the Shakti Peeths, on the banks of river Baner. Chamundeshwari Devi is said to be one of the most powerful avatars of Goddess Durga with the Navratri festival a prominent festivity of the temple. The temple has engravings from the Mahabharata and Ramayana and is designed in traditional Himachali architecture. It is believed that the temple came into being during the 1500s when goddess Chamunda appeared in a local priest’s dream and urged the idol to be shifted to a specific spot which is the present-day temple. Also referred to as Raktha Kali, Charchika and Chamundeshwari, Chamunda Devi is a terrifying version of Mother Durga and it is believed that Goddess Durga created another goddess with immense power and strength to destroy the demons, Chanda and Munda. Upon destruction, the goddess was then named Chamunda Devi, or the one who triumphs over evil. During the summer months, the temple is open from 5 am to 12 noon and then again from 1 to 10 pm. During the winters, it is open from 6 am to 12 noon and then between 1 and 9 pm. The ancient temple of Kaleshwar Mahadev is also dedicated to Lord Shiva with the main attraction being the Lingam which is placed at ground level and the temple is adorned with beautiful sculptures.

Tashijong is located about 5 km west of Baijnath and is famous as it is home to a small community of Drukpa Kagyud monks and refugees. The Tashijong Gompa is quite impressive and attracts a lot of people. Apart from the Gompa, most of the life revolves around carpet making, thangka painting and woodcarving.

The trek to Indrahar Pass is a fairly easy one, being the most picturesque trail starting from Mcleodganj, covering Lahesh and Triund Caves, and lasts about 14 km one way. One can easily spot the Pit Panjal range and other smaller ranges on either side. The scenic beauty of this trek is spellbinding with the peak trekking time between April to October. The Dhauladhar Range trek is one of the most visually rewarding treks. This peak is visible almost all throughout the higher altitude treks in Kangra, but this particular trek is to the north of Kangra and covers the southern outer range of Himalayas.

The Kangra Museum is dedicated to the brilliant marvels of Tibetan and Buddhist artwork and their rich history. Among the large variety of its precious collectibles are jewelry, rare coin memorabilia, paintings, sculptures and pottery. The essence of tribal culture is beautifully reflected in the exquisite pieces of art on their culture.

Known for its Sikharas which resemble the Angkor Wat of Cambodia, Masrur is located around 30 km from Kangra. These 10th century temples, however were badly damaged in the 1905 earthquake.

Pragpur is a heritage village situated near Kangra and houses the Judge’s, Court Manor. The largely unaltered village, complete with an old world charm of small red brick shops and traditional rural houses is perfect for an undisturbed village tourism option. Reputed as India’s first heritage village, visitors get pulled by its cobbled streets, the ornamental village tank and slate-roofed and mud-plastered houses. Pragpur is also the base for the famous Kangra School of Painting. The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage are working on preserving and running the village in the same ethnic rural backdrop.

Haripur and Guler are twin townships carrying the heritage of Guler kingdom and are separated by a river which creates a wetland and home to a large number of migratory birds in winters due to the marshes and irrigated private land. Guler is situated on the other side of the town having a narrow gauge railway station connected from Pathankot to Jogindernagar while Haripur was founded in 1464 and it is the place where the Pahari Paintings known as the Kangra miniature paintings originated. The town also known as the cradle of Kangra School of Paintings came to a downfall at the end of the 19th century. Haripur comprises of old fort and water springs which are worth visiting. According to legends, Raja Hari Chand of Kangra went hunting but got separated from his hunting party and fell in a well. Everybody searched for him, but when they could not find him, the king was declared dead. After they returned to Kangra, his wives burned themselves, became sati and Karan Chand, who was his younger brother, was given the throne. Hari Chand was trapped in the well for 22 days after which he was rescued by a passerby. Hari Chand did not regain control over his kingdom but instead set up a new kingdom known as Haripur named after himself. Guler state which was founded in 1405 was a princely state which was taken over by Punjab in 1813. On the hills of Haripur, there is a ruined fort which was built by Raja Hari Chand, which is the second fort built by him after the Kangra or Nagarkot Fort as well as caves and some temples built by the king.

Khajjiar
Often referred to as the mini-Switzerland of India, Khajjiar is a small town near Dalhousie which provides visitors with a unique combination of forests, lakes and pastures. Located at an altitude of 6,500 feet, Khajjiar is known for its nine-hole golf-course which is nestled in the midst of lush greenery and a breathtaking landscape. Khajjiar is a small saucer-shaped plateau which also has a small lake and is surrounded by green meadows, dense forests and beautiful temples.

Thick deodar foliage, a plethora of wildlife, snowcapped mountains, carpets of verdant grasslands and easy on the eye streams of fresh water make up the Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary which is also known as the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. The name Kalatop means black cap, which refers to the thick, black forest cover on the highest hilltop in the sanctuary. Situated a few km from the Chamba dam and Chamera reservoir on the river Ravi, it is known to be rich in flora and fauna. Hundreds of small freshwater streams flow into the Ravi river north of the sanctuary. The well laid out trekking and hiking trails in the sanctuary offer an experience not found elsewhere. Treks are the best way to explore the beautiful untouched forests of the park area with views of the towering Pir Panjal range from sanctuary resthouse a breathtaking sight. The sanctuary holds a great diversity of flora and fauna. There is a small adventure park inside the sanctuary, ideal for kids to have some fun time. The Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary has a small guesthouse located inside the premises for which one will need to make prior reservations. The summer months from March to May are the best times to visit with the post-monsoon season from September onwards pleasant. During the rule of the princely states under the British, the place was famous as the hunting and sporting grounds for the Chamba rulers. The area under the Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary was notified as a natural reserve during the early 1960’s but efforts to protect and preserve the pristine area was undertaken only during the 1970’s when it was declared a sanctuary. The lush oasis has always been an open forest sanctuary, meaning that there are no enclosures of any kind and animals are free to move in and out of the area.

Bharmour
Known to be Himachal’s well kept secret, Bharmour is a quaint little hilltown boasting of lush green scenery and snow clad peaks. Formerly called Brahmpura, the hill hamlet is situated at a distance of 64 km from Chamba and is known for its several ancient temples, some of which are believed to date back to the 10th century. Flanked by the Ravi and Chenab valleys and tucked in between the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges, Bharmour is sometimes called the Land of Lord Shiva as it is believed that Lord Shiva resided at the Kailash Parvat nearby. Situated in the heart of Bharmour, the Chaurasi temple complex is the highlight of the place. The huge complex houses as many as 84 small shrines in the premises dedicated to different gods and goddesses, hence the name Chaurasi. Believed to have been built 1400 years ago, the Manimahesh occupies the centre which is built in the Shikhara style. The Lakshana Devi Temple is the oldest temple in the complex and it still retains features like the wooden architectural designs and intricately carved entrance. The temple is presided by Goddess Durga in the form of four-armed Mahishasuramardini and their are carvings from Shaivism and Vaishnavism. The Manimahesh temple is situated in the centre of the complex and is considered to be the most important temple. Enshrined by a large Shivalinga, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Narsingh or Narasimha temple also dates back to the 7th century and is enshrined by Narasimha, the half man half lion incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The Lord Nandi Bull Temple is situated right across the Manimahesh Temple and is presided by a life size metal sculpture of the bull Nandi. The Dharmeshvar Maharaj or Dharamraj temple which is presided by Dharamraj or the lord of death. It is common belief among locals that dead souls stand here to seek permission from Lord Dharamraj before departing on their final journey. The Ganpati temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesh and is built near the entrance of complex and is enshrined by a bronze statue of Lord Ganesh.

Bharmour is home to two prominent wildlife sanctuaries in the region, the Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary and the Tundah Wildlife Sanctuary. Kugti is one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in the region situated at a varying heights of 2195 to 5040 m. The Tundah wildlife sanctuary is also situated near the Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary and is linked to it through a forest corridor. Both of these have a flourishing wildlife.

Chamba
Not to be confused with a town of the same name in Uttarakhand, Chamba in Himachal Pradesh is located at an altitude of 1,006 metres above sea level, on the banks of the ravi River, a major tributary of the Indus river, at its confluence with the Sal river. Known for the ancient temples and caves, Chamba is famous for mesmerising views of the Pir Panjal, Zanskar and Dhauladhar ranges which forms the backdrop to the town. Chamba is popular for its traditional handicrafts and art along with the miniature Pahari paintings, a form of Indian painting that originated from the Himalayan hill kingdoms of North India during the 17th to 19th centuries. It is also the base camp for several treks in the great Himalayan ranges.

Though historical records date the history of the Chamba region to the Kolian tribes in the 2nd century BC, the area was formally ruled by the Maru dynasty, starting with the Raju Maru from around 500 AD, ruling from the ancient capital of Bharmour. In 920, Raja Sahil Varman shifted the capital of the kingdom to Chamba, following the specific request of his daughter Champavati for whom Chamba was namedThis dynasty ruled Chamba until its merger with India in April 1948. Chamba celebrates two renowned festivals, the Suhi Mata Mela, held during March/April for four days and the Minjar Mela, celebrated on the 2nd Sunday of the Shravana month, in August.

The Manimahesh Lake, also known as the Dal Lake is situated in the Pir Panjal range nestled at an elevation of 4,080 meters and is considered only second in significance to the Lake Mansarovar in Tibet. Manimahesh means Lord Shiva’s jewels and according to local legend, on a full moon night, one can see the reflection of this jewel in the magnificent lake. It remains closed most of the year due to snow, and one has to trek a distance of 13 km to mountains to get there. Shaped like a saucer, the lake is divided into two parts, the larger part is the Shiv Katori or the bathing place of Lord Shiva, and the lower part is called Gauri Kund or the bathing place for Goddess Parvati. The lake is close to the peak of the Manimahesh Kailash Parbat, which is considered to be the holy abode of Lord Shiva and it is said that he created both the landforms as his marital home with Goddess Parvati, and is believed to be still residing here. There is a marble image dedicated to the Lord in the periphery called Chaumukha. There are many legends associated with the origins of Manimahesh Lake with one of the most popular that says that Lord Shiva created the lake after he married Goddess Parvati. It is also believed that the avalanches and blizzards that occur in the region are caused due to Lord Shiva’s displeasure and legends also mention the lake as the sight of Shiva’s penance. There is no better way to see the gorgeous landscape of the Manimahesh lake than through a helicopter ride. One can make reservations for the ride from either Bharmour or Chamba. The helicopter reaches takes passengers to Gauri Kund, and from there one has to make a 1 km hike, offer prayers to the Lord, before the return flight to Bharmour or Chamba. A return trip will set one back by around INR 8,000 per passenger from Bharmour and INR 14,500 per passenger from Chamba.

Thala Waterfall is a gorgeous perennial waterfall that is popular among locals and visitors. The cascading water forms a pool at the base which is a pure delight, however, it is advisable not to take a dip at the pond as the water pressure is really high and there are chances that one might get sucked into the bottom. Surrounded by immense natural beauty, the fall is also an ideal place to have a quiet picnic as it is situated at a distance of 100 m from the Thala Bridge and is easily walked from there.

Hadsar is a small town that is known as the base camp of the Manimahesh Yatra and is home to the gorgeous Hadsar Waterfalls. Boasting of enchanting natural beauty and sprawling pastures of alpine woods, the waterfall is a popular picnic spot and can be reached through a short trek.

The Lakshmi Narayan Temple is the oldest and largest temple in Chamba, and is built in the shape of a Shikhara. It houses six stunning idols of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva with the central Vishnu idol carved out of marble.

The extravagance of the Vishnu idol takes the centre stage at the Hariraya temple. The idol is is a bronze idol covered in saffron, adorned with jewelry, including rings, armlets, kundals or earrings, a crown and necklaces. Lord Vishnu is seen riding a chariot pulled by six horses and the 11th century constructed stone carved shikhara type temple makes for an enchanting experience.

Built by Raja Sahil Varman in the memory of his daughter, Champavati, the Champavati temple is a thronged by pilgrims and is located in the heart of the cit built in the distinctive Shikara style with features inspired by the Nepal architectural designs. It boasts of several rock carvings and has a magnified wheel on the rooftop which makes it unique. Large sculptures grace the interiors and the walls have beautiful carvings on stone. The Champavati temple enshrines the idol of Goddess Mahisasuramardini, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. In addition, the premises also house shrines of Vasuki Naga and Wazir. The temple is managed and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India and is open between sunrise to sunset daily.

The Vajreshwari temple is dedicated to the Goddess of lightning popularly known as Goddess Vajreshwari, and is atleast a thousand years old. Goddess Vajreshwari is believed to be a manifestation of Goddess Parvati and she is worshipped here in her pinid form. Built in the traditional Shikhara style of architecture, the shrine is a amalgamation of spectacular carvings, intricate woodwork and delicate stonework. The interior walls have elaborate carvings of different Hindu deities and idols. Also known as the Bajreshwari Temple, the temple has eighteen tiny inscriptions on the outer walls, and some on the gigantic pillar guarding the entrance. The entrance has a Nagarkhana or a drum house with two huge stone lions, which are a symbol for protecting the temple’s wealth. The shrine houses a magnificent idol of Goddess Durga seated on a lion along with Lord Vishnu on the side with three faces, human, boar and lion.The best time to visit the temple is in the month of March during Amavasya or the new moon, when a huge fair is held in the honour of Goddess Vajreshwari as well as during Navratri celebrated in March. The Vajreshwari temple has several myths attached to it with the most prominent one that goes to suggest that after Goddess Sati sacrificed herself during her father’s yagna, Lord Shiva started the tandav or the dance of destruction and took off with her body. In order to save the world from Lord Shiva’s wrath, Lord Vishnu destroyed her body and divided it into 52 parts with his Chakra. Goddess Sati’s parts fell in different parts of the world, the temple spot being one of it thus making it the shakti peeth. Later Goddess Parvati appeared in the dreams of Pandavas and ordered them to build a temple on the site to save themselves from destruction. This is how a temple came to be built in the memory of Goddess Sati and was named Vajreshwari Temple. The temple is known to possess immense wealth with the idols believed to be clad in heavy ornaments and expensive jewellery. The shrine was plundered repeatedly over time with Mahmud Ghazni pillaging in 1009 who destroyed the temple and built a mosque here. After thirty five years, the king of the region regained the site and the shrine was replicated and restored. The new temple was generously decorated with jewels in gold, silver and diamonds. Not long, it was plundered and looted by Firoz Shah Tughlaq in 1360, but later the Mughal emperor Akbar decided to restore the temple’s grandeur. In 1905 a severe earthquake annihilated the temple, but not to a great loss.

Perched on top of the Shah Madar range and overlooking a spectacular view of Chamba, the Chamunda Devi temple was built by Raja Umed Singh in 1762. Nestled amidst the woods of Pathiar and Lahla, the temple is entirely made of wood and has gable roofs and is situated on the banks of the river Baner. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, also known as the Goddess of war, the temple could only be reached through a flight of around 400 steps cut out of a stone pathway previously, but now it is easily accessible through a 3 kms long concrete road from Chamba. The seven-hundred-year old temple has a cave-like structure at the back which is believed to be the symbol of Lord Shiva and a stone phallus is kept to mark the territory. Also known as Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham, the temple is home to Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti. Lord Hanuman and Lord Bhairav guard the front gate of the temple and are considered to be the protectors of the Goddess. The shrine boasts of enchanting decor and striking architecture, and has carvings on silver sheet in the inner sanctum. Adorned with beautiful floral patterns and extravagant idols, the temple also present a wonderful picture of the beguiling Himalayan range in the backdrop. In addition, the temple complex also houses a handicrafts shop which sells pretty souvenirs.

The Sui Mata temple was built by King Varman in memory of his wife Queen Sui who sacrificed her life for her people. Situated on top of the Shah Darbar hill, the shrine provides a spectacular bird’s eye view of the township below. The temple complex has been divided into three parts which includes the main temple, a channel and a memorial dedicated to Rani Sui Mata. The temple can be reached by alighting a flight of stairs paved along a pathway from the bottom of the base. The interiors have been tastefully done in beautiful paintings depicting the life and times of Sui Mata. The temple is most crowded during the annual fair which is held in the months of April and May with little girls and women dressing up extravagantly to pay their homage to the sacrifice of Queen Sui. The legend behind the temple states that once there was drought in the kingdom of Raja Varman who prayed to the Gods, gave away offering and tried every way to please the deities but to no avail. Disappointed and anguished, he took advice from the brahmins and religious priests who told him about the extreme demands of the gods. In order to bring water to the town, the King would have to either sacrifice his son or his queen. Taking a very tough call, the king decided to sacrifice his son but the queen could not see this happen and so she died instead. Soon after there were heavy rains and the town was flooded with water. Later, a memorial was built for Queen Sui Mata for her sacrifice.

Situated next to the Chaughan gate, the Sri Hari Rai temple is built entirely of woodwork and boasts of the shikhara style of architecture with wooden chattris and an elevated platform base. The temple is enshrined by Lord Vishnu, in his three faced avatar of human, lion and boar riding on six horses. Built in the 11th century, the main idol is heavily adorned with rings, amulets, necklaces and earrings. The temple also houses several other deities including Lord Shiva seated on a bull with Uma on his side and their mounts, the lion and nandi in the front and Lord Surya seated on a chariot among others.

The Church of Scotland, built in 1903, a quiet sanctuary, is a Protestant Church which speaks of its strong Scottish artistic sensibilities in its arched windows and deep cravings. With absolutely no alterations since its erection, except a boundary wall, the church, also known as St. Andrews Church is extraordinarily well preserved and should not be missed.

The Bhuri Singh Museum is a delight for those interested in Indian epics and texts. Originally written pages from the Mahabharata and the Upanishads are on display here, apart from the rare brass and copper engraved coins and such artefacts. Also on display, are the popular Basholi and Kangra style paintings.

Built in the mid 18th century, the Chamba Palace or Akhand Chandi Palace is the stately white building which lording over town. The royal palace was originally constructed during the reign of Raja Umedh Singh as a residential palace, but over the years, the palace was reconstructed, renovated and modified many times both by the British and the Mughal emperors. They added the Darbar Hall, also called Marshall Hall, the Zenana Mahal and several specimens of Mughal architecture which makes the palace a wonderful amalgamation of the both their designs and creativity. The Akhand Chandi Palace also has a distinguishable green roof which showcases the regal building from other places of importance in Chamba. The entire premises are divided in three segments, with sloping roofs for the easy shedding of snow. The architecture boasts of well-decorated arc styled windows and intricate wood and glass work in the interior walls. Surrounded by plush gardens and fancy fountains, the palace was handed over to the Himachal government in 1958 and has now been converted into a government college and a district library.

Tattapani
A popular destination, Tattapani is a quaint village located 60 kms north of Shimla on the right bank of river Sutlej at an altitude of 2,230 feet above sea level. In the local language, Tattapani means hot water and this place famous for its hot water springs that is spread over an area of one sq km and this spring is is said to have curative properties for ailments like stress, joint pain, fatigue and other skin diseases. An ancient religious place, the Shiva Cave is about 3.5 km from Tattapani and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Apart from its religious aspects, in this cave one can witness stalactites and stalagmites which is also an ideal spot for fishing and swimming. The Shivaratri festivities in this cave are feverently celebrated which can be approached either by a 10 min drive or by climbing a well maintained 450 stairs. An ancient temple 35 km from Tattapani and dedicated to Mahun Nag, the Mahunag temple is famously referred to as the great snake of Maharaja Karana. An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman also known as the Jai Shree Dev Badeyogi Ji Maharaj, is a famous temple located in Mandi. The hot water springs in Tattapani are very sought after and it is believed that a dip in the hot water can cure skin diseases, joint pains and fatigue. The spring is however not a natural spring since it disappears in the month of June and July as the level of the river rises and reappears in November and December. Adventure tourists can also do white water rafting on the Sutlej river.with the time for this during May and June. Chindi is a small village packed with apple orchards, enormous pine and deodar forests and several small temples near the village.

Jalori Pass
Nestled in the peaks of the northern Himalayas the Jalori mountain pass is located between Kullu and Shimla. This pass opens in the second week of March and shuts down in December due to snowfall. Situated at a height of 10,800 feet above sea level, Jalori Pass is located 5 km from Shoja and the road leading to the pass is narrow and extremely steep, not to mention uneven and full of potholes, making it a bumpy ride and sometimes becoming difficult to drive even in first gear. Vehicles are prone to slipping due to frost during the winter, even after machines have swept away the snow. The Jalori Pass Trek is a moderate level trek which follows a trail amidst vast coniferous forests, and can be best covered between mid-June to mid-October when traversing through the snow is an easy feat. The path leads to the nearby Serolsar Lake and the Budhi Naagin temple. Legend has it that the Goddess Budhi Naagin, the Mother of snakes, resides in the Serolsar Lake and is said to have two birds as companions, who jointly protect the lake, keeping it clean and pure. It is also believed that the Pandavas visited this place during their exile. Numerous little hamlets can be found in the surrounding area, each with their own distinct cultures. The Jalori Mata temple is located approximately 3 km from the pass. The village of Shoja is part of the Great Himalayan National Park, which consists of large conifer and oak forests, rivers and glaciers. The pass is a treasury of flowers, trees, and migratory birds and is home to the Indian blue robin, nutcracker, white-throated tit, and yellow-billed blue magpie. Shrubs of Iris flowers, ferns and wild roses commonly festoon the grounds in the locale. The remaining fertile area is filled with fields of cauliflower, wheat, potatoes and other vegetables. The road through Jalori pass holds a historical and strategic importance and was constructed by the British to gain access to the Kullu Valley.

Jibhi
Often referred to as a mesmerising hamlet situated amidst the lush green forests and surrounded by variegated mountain, Jibhi is untouched by industrialisation and surrounded by nature. The dense pine forests, tranquil freshwater lakes and pristine temples make this place worth visiting. The dense forests of Jibhi are replete with flora and fauna with the rich biodiversity of this place leaving one enchanted. Many wild and rare flowers can be spotted in the rich forests. The Jibhi waterfall is hidden inside the forest that cannot be seen until one is well inside the dense forest. The gushing of water flows like music and small wooden bridges are built near the waterfall providing a picturesque view of the place. Built in the Pahadi style architecture, the 1500-year old Chaini Fort is a timber tower of 40 meters which makes it the best place from where one can see the panoramic beauty of the place. The fort has a secret tunnel underground and one can take a walk through the tunnel to unveil its mysteries. Made using fine timber interlocked with each other, the fort stands tall and today has been converted into a temple of dedicated to Lord Krishna. Located at a distance of 500 meters, the Shringa Rishi temple is surrounded by lush green trees and blooming flowers with the view from here is absolutely mesmerizing giving a bird’s eyes view of Jibhi. A short trek of 250 to 300 meters will take one to what is locally known as Mini Thailand A walk of 250-300 metres towards the Jalori pass and one will see a yellow board of the forest guest house on the left side. A trek down for around 200 metres will make you reach the pond where one can take a dip.

Mandi
Formerly known as Mandav Nagar, Mandi is located at the junction of Kullu and Dharamshala and is often referred to as the Varanasi of the hills or Choti Kashi because of the 81 temples spread across the town. Lying on the banks of river Beas, Mandi serves as the gateway to the valleys of Kullu, Manali, Spiti and Lahul and lies at an average altitude of 800 metres, which means summers are pleasant and winters are cold. The city was established in 1527 by Ajbar Sen, as the seat of the Mandi State, a princely state till independence and today, it is widely known for its International Mandi Shivaratri Fair. The first heritage city of the state, it has one of the oldest buildings in the state. The name Mandi and its former name of Mandav Nagar comes from the sage Rishi Mandav, who prayed in this area and it is said the rocks here turned black due to the severity of his penance. Alternatively, the name may also have been derived from the common word mandi which means a market and may be connected to the Sanskrit root word mandaptika, meaning an open hall or shed.

Dating back to the 1520s, the Bhutnath temple is as old as the town itself. Located almost at the center of the town, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva with the Shivaratri festival celebrated in the month of March a major event of this temple and town. The Bhima Kali temple is dedicated to the Goddess Bhima Kali. Situated on the banks of the river Beas, this temple also showcases statues and idols of various Gods and Goddesses in a museum. It is also believed that this is where lord Krishna fought with the demon named Banasura. The Shikhari Devi temple is located 15 km from Mandi with the trek to this temple located at a height of 3332 m above the sea level quite exciting. Sunrises and sunsets from the temple leaves one breathless and enchanted.

Located almost 80 km from Mandi, the Kamlah Fort stands on the Sikandar Dhar ranges. Built by Raja Suraj Sen in 1625, it stands at a height of 4772 meters. With its entrance present in the form of a maze, the landscape around is lush, green and picture perfect.

The Pandoh Dam is an embankment dam that is constructed on the Beas river whose primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation. Commissioned in 1977, the man-made lake created by the dam picturesque and full of lush greenery. Entry fees to the dam start from INR 500 onwards.

The Rewalsar Lake, also known as the Tso Pema Lotus Lake is a mid-altitude lake located on a mountain spur about 23 km to the south of Mandi. This mountain spur is protected by a variety of dense vegetation and plants, and the lake is particularly well known for its floating islands of reed. It is believed that these islands can be moved by prayers or by the breeze. The square-shaped lake has a shoreline of 735 kilometres and is at an elevation of 1,360 metres above sea level. The major attraction at the lake is the statue of Guru Rinpoche, and it is the second largest statue in the country. Standing 123 feet tall, at the height of about 4,000 feet above the sea level, the lake houses a beautiful Gurudwara built by Raja Joginder Sen of Mandi in 1930 to honour Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s visit to Rewalsar in 1738. There are also three temples dedicated to Lord Krishna, Lord Shiva and the sage Lomas near the lake. The place also has a Drikung Kagyu Gompa, which is an academy for Buddhist studies. The lake Kunt Bhyog, which is located at an altitude of 1,750 metres above the sea level, is located above the Rewalsar Lake and is known by the Tibetans Tso-Pema which means the Lotus Lake. There is a 12-metre high statue of Padmasambhava at the lake, which is the main attraction of the location.

A famous trekking path all around and situated at the height of 3334 m, Kamru Nag Lake lies on the Mandi-Karsog road and serves as arresting place for trekkers. Bound by the snow covered Dhauladhar and the Bahl Valleys, there is a Kamru Nag Temple in the proximity which is flanked by thick cover of lush green forest. An offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh, Prashar Lake is a crystal clear water body situated about 50 km north of Mandi, with a three-storied pagoda-like temple dedicated to the sage Prashar. The lake is located at the height of 2730 m above sea level with deep blue waters and is bound by the mighty Dhauladhar ranges in Kullu Valley and is surrounded by snow-topped peaks that looks down on the fast flowing river Beas. The temple was built in the thirteenth century, and has a floating island in it, whose actual depth is unclear.

A former princely state, Sunder Nagar was known as Suket and is famous for the man-made lake produced by the waters of Beas-Sutlej Project, India’s biggest hydel project and is known for its shady and high towering trees. Sunder Nagar was once the jail of Mandi and the most visited temple here is the Mahamaya temple which is located on the hill and offers a panoramic view of the city. The Murari Devi temple is said to have been built by Pandavas during their exile and has rocks which are believed to be the footprints of the Pandavas. An ancient cave dating to the Puranas, the Shukdev Vatika is said to be the place where the saint Sukhdev meditated. The ancient cave leads to Haridwar, and it is believed that Rishi Sukhdev took a bath in the holy water of Ganges through the cave.

I can’t wait to share more of Himachal Pradesh in the next part…

In My Hands Today…

Posted on April 8, 2021 by memoriesandsuch

Lifespan: Why We Age — and Why We Don’t Have To – David A. Sinclair

It’s a seemingly undeniable truth that aging is inevitable. But what if everything we’ve been taught to believe about aging is wrong? What if we could choose our lifespan?

In this groundbreaking book, Dr. David Sinclair, leading world authority on genetics and longevity, reveals a bold new theory for why we age. As he writes: “Aging is a disease, and that disease is treatable.”

This book takes us to the frontlines of research many from Dr. David Sinclair’s own lab at Harvard—that demonstrate how we can slow down, or even reverse, aging. The key is activating newly discovered vitality genes, the descendants of an ancient genetic survival circuit that is both the cause of aging and the key to reversing it.

World Health Day

Posted on April 7, 2021 by memoriesandsuch

Today is World Health Day, a day dedicated to creating awareness of a specific health theme to highlight a priority area of concern for the World Health Organisation or WHO. This day has, over the past 50 years, from its inception in 1948

April 7 of each year marks the celebration of World Health Day. From its inception at the First Health Assembly in 1948 and since taking effect in 1950, the celebration has aimed to create awareness of a specific health theme to highlight a priority area of concern for the World Health Organization.

The World Health Day has a large number of wide-reaching aims and priorities including to improve understanding of universal health coverage and the importance of primary health care as its foundation, to spur action from individuals, policy-makers and health-care workers to make universal health care a reality for everyone, everyone should have the information and services they need to take care of their own health and the health of their families and to have skilled health workers providing quality, people-centred care; and policy-makers committed to investing in primary health care.

The theme for the 2021 World Heath Day is to build a fairer, healthier world. Why is this so? Because this world is an unequal world. As COVID-19 has highlighted, some people are able to live healthier lives and have better access to health services than others and this is entirely due to the conditions in which they are born, grow, live, work and age. All over the world, some groups struggle to make ends meet with little daily income, have poorer housing conditions and education, fewer employment opportunities, experience greater gender inequality, and have little or no access to safe environments, clean water and air, food security and health services. This leads to unnecessary suffering, avoidable illness, and premature death. And it harms our societies and economies. Not only is this unfair, it is preventable. That’s why world leaders are being called upon to ensure that everyone has living and working conditions that are conducive to good health as well as to monitor health inequities, and to ensure that all people are able to access quality health services when and where they need them.

2021 has also been designated as the International Year of Health and Care Workers (YHCW) in appreciation and gratitude for their unwavering dedication in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the theme of Protect, Invest and Together, a year-long campaign which highlights the urgent need to invest in health workers for shared dividends in health, jobs, economic opportunity and equity, has been launched by the WHO. The campaign’s objectives is to ensure the world’s health and care workers are prioritised for the COVID-19 vaccine in the first 100 days of 2021, recognise and commemorate all health and care workers who have lost their lives during the pandemic, mobilise commitments from countries, international financing Institutions and bilateral and philanthropic partners to protect and invest in health and care workers, engage countries and all relevant stakeholders in dialogue on a care compact to protect health and care workers’ rights, decent work and practice environments and bring together communities, influencers, political and social support in solidarity, advocacy and care for health and care workers.

This year, please support to ensure that our health and care workforces are supported, protected, motivated and equipped to deliver safe health care at all times, not only during COVID-19. The pandemic of COVID-19 has hit all countries hard, but its impact has been harshest on those communities which were already vulnerable, who are more exposed to the disease, less likely to have access to quality health care services and more likely to experience adverse consequences as a result of measures implemented to contain the pandemic.

Therefore it is more than important to have a healthier world, one where everyone has access to the healthcare they need.

In My Hands Today…

Posted on April 6, 2021 by memoriesandsuch

12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos – Jordan B. Peterson

What does everyone in the modern world need to know? Renowned psychologist Jordan B. Peterson’s answer to this most difficult of questions uniquely combines the hard-won truths of ancient tradition with the stunning revelations of cutting-edge scientific research.

Humorous, surprising, and informative, Dr. Peterson tells us why skateboarding boys and girls must be left alone, what terrible fate awaits those who criticize too easily, and why you should always pet a cat when you meet one on the street.

What does the nervous system of the lowly lobster have to tell us about standing up straight (with our shoulders back) and about success in life? Why did ancient Egyptians worship the capacity to pay careful attention as the highest of gods? What dreadful paths do people tread when they become resentful, arrogant, and vengeful? Dr. Peterson journeys broadly, discussing discipline, freedom, adventure, and responsibility, distilling the world’s wisdom into 12 practical and profound rules for life. 12 Rules for Life shatters the modern commonplaces of science, faith, and human nature while transforming and ennobling the mind and spirit of its listeners.

Travel Bucket List: India – Himachal Pradesh Part 2

Posted on April 5, 2021 by memoriesandsuch

In this part, we look at some of the smaller and possibly lesser known towns in Himachal.

Chail
Located 45 km south of the state capital of Shimla, Chail is known for its salubrious beauty and virgin forests. In 1891, when the Maharaja Rajendra of Patiala incurred the rage of Lord Kitchener, he was denied entry into the Indian summer capital of Shimla. This incensed the Maharaja and he vowed to build a new summer retreat for himself and so he built Chail from stratch in defience. The Chail Palace, built as a summer retreat for the Maharaja of Patiala is well known for its architecture. The cricket ground and polo ground built at an altitude of 2,444 m and owned by erstwhile royal family of Patiala is the world’s highest cricket ground. Chail is also frequented by hikers as it offers wonderful views of the lower Himalayas. After accession to the Indian Union, Maharaja of Patiala donated most of his buildings to Chail Military School and the Government of India.A dainty little village based on the hill river of Ashwin, between Chail and Solan, Sadhupul has a small bridge atop the river which is the highlight of the hamlet and a popular picnic spot. Nestled in the heart of the beautiful city, the Palace Hotel is situated in the middle of 75 acres of exquisite lawns and gardens. The palace is covered with royal furniture, captivating log huts, charming cottages, thick forests, a private orchard where one can go for a quiet walk around the hotel admiring the beautiful nature or visit what is known as the lover’s hill nearby. The hotel is open from 9 am to 10 pm and has an entry fee of INR 100 per person. Previously a hunters’ reserve for the royal family, the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a wildlife sanctuary by the government in 1976. The sanctuary has a myriad species of birds and animals including the Indian Munjtac, Leopard, Wild Boar, Garal among many others as well as Sambhar, Red Jungle Fowl, Kakkar. The best time to visit for the sanctuary is from March, and all the way to October. The Kali temple is a popular religious spot in Chail and is also known for some breath-taking views. The Sidh Baba ka Mandir was was built by Maharaja Bhupender Singh when a saint visited him in his dream and told him about the place being his place of meditation and then a temple constructed here. The perfect time to visit Chail is during the summer season from April to June when the climate is very pleasant with the average temperature of 20 degrees Celsius. The winter season from October to March remains chilly and is a heaven for the snow lovers.

Solan
Located on the Punjab-Himachal Border, and the largest municipal council of the state, Solan lies on the lower ranges of the Himalayas on the Shivalik range and is more of an industrial town. Also known as the mushroom city of India due the vast mushroom farming as well as the location of the Directorate of Mushroom Research (DMR) situated at Chambaghat and the city of Red Gold, due to the bulk production of tomatoes in the area. Solan is named after the Hindu goddess Shoolini Devi in whose name every year in June, a fair venerating the goddess is held and was the capital of the erstwhile princely state of Baghat. The history of Solan goes back to the era of Pandavas. According to local folklore, the Pandavas lived here during their exile. In 1815 British won Baghat state, now Solan from the Gurkhas, with the Gurkha or Arki Fort still standing tall on a mountain near Solan. A beautiful city, Solan has ancient temples and monasteries that attract hundreds of visitors.

The Majathal Sanctuary is spread across an area of 55,670 sq km and this this wildlife sanctuary is a forested area with a wide variety of flora and fauna. A lot of endangered species can be found here, including the Cheer Pheasant. Other species of animals in this sanctuary are Gorals, Goats and many unique varieties of birds. Accommodation in the form of jungle houses are also available inside the sanctuary itself.

The Nalagarh Fort is a famous heritage hotel built in 1421 at the foothills of the Himalayas. Situated in the middle of lush greenery over a vast 20-acre property, combined with modern amenities, it serves as an ideal getaway for a weekend getaway with a fantastic view of the Shivalik Hills. Built in the mughal style of architecture in five levels, the majestic fort has now been converted into a hotel. The conference hall of the fort known as Diwan-E-Khas was built by Raja Sansar Chand in 1618 AD.

The Kuthar Fort which is said to be around 800 years old, is the oldest historical monument in the region and is spread over a large area with a number fresh-water springs. A walk around this ancient structure showcases a few more monuments such as the Gurkha fort and more.

Dagshai or Daag-e-shahi is the oldest cantonment town in Solan district perched on top of a hill 5,689 feet above sea level. The township’s foundation was laid down by the East India Company in 1847 and also includes a prison which is today converted into a jail museum. From some of these places, one can view the entire Panchkula and Chandigarh lights at night. According to legend, the name Dagshai has been derived from the word Daag-e-Shahi, because during the reign of the mughals, a permanent royal mark known as Daag-e-Shahi was put with a hot iron on the forehead of criminals and they were then sent to the Dagshai village.

One of the oldest breweries in the country, the Solan brewery started in 1855 and has been converted into a distillery today. Started by an Englishman Edward Dyer as Dyer Breweries, it is now run by Mohan Meaking Ltd and is located very close to the Solan railway station.

The Shoolini Temple dedicated to Goddess Shoolini is one of the oldest temples in the region which hosts an annual fair in the month of June which is celebrated with much grandeur and vibrance. The Menri Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in India, which houses a large statue of Lord Shenrab Mibo. The monastery showcases performances of the Cham and Bon dances during the new year which is the best time to visit the monastery.

The Darlaghat is a wildlife sanctuary housing a number of wildlife species like the leopards, black bears, sambars and barking deers. It is located on the Shimla-Bilaspur road with a number of eco treks are also conducted by the state tourism.

Barog
An destination which is a combination of scenic beauty and pre-colonial history and ancient myth, Barog is like Shimla, but without the capital’s hustle and crowds. Situated at a height of about 1560 m, Barog offers countless pockets of nature where one can trek, relax, click pictures, and enjoy the scenic view with family and friends. The Choor Chandini peak, at an altitude of about 3650 m above sea level is a favourite among trekkers. The name of the peak derives from how the mountain appears to have silver bangles all over it on moonlit nights. About a distance of 16 kms from Barog lies the ridge of Karol with a famous temple on the top, but the landmark especially popular among tourists is a cave called the Pandava cave. Legend has it that the Pandava brothers resided in these caves for a few days, which is said to be longest of its kind in the state. Established in 1969 by Abbott Luntog Tengpai Nyima, the Dolanji Bon Monastery is a haven for Tibetan culture in Barog. Set up as a small cultural heritage site at its inception, this monastery has now developed to house 120 monks and is famous for performances of the Bon dances during the New Year.

Nahan
A perfect romantic getaway lying among the Shivalik range overlooking lush green fields, Nahan has a chequered past. Founded by Raja Karan Prakash in 1621 as a capital of the erstwhile princely state of Sirmour, it is believed that the town derives its name from a sage named Nahar who lived where the town stands today. According to another version, the town gets its name from when the king who was trying to kill a lion was stopped by a saint named Baba Banwari Das who told the king, Nahar which means don’t kill. The quaint town today, is dotted with gardens, temples and a manmade lake. Located at an altitude of 932 m, Nahan is a used as a base for visits to the surrounding areas.

The Suketi Fossil Park, also known as the Shivalik Fossil Park, is the first in Asia to be situated on the same site where the fossils were unearthed, and has a collection of vertebrate fossils and skeletons that date back to the prehistoric times, and have been recovered from the upper and middle Siwaliks geological formations of sandstones and clay at Suketi. Established on 23 March in 1974 by the Geological Survey of India, in association with the Himachal Pradesh government, the fossil park is named after the Suketi village, where the park is located. The primary objective behind the establishment of this park was to preserve the site and the fossils that were found here and to protect the fossils from being extracted and vandalised. The park is open from 9:30 am to 5 pm and is closed on Tuesdays.

The Jaitak fort built by the Gurkha leader Ranjor Singh Thapa in 1810, is situated on the top of the Jaitak hills and is constructed using the materials recovered from Nahan fort after it was ransacked and destroyed. The Jaggannath Temple is a major attraction of the town and was built by Raja Budh Prakash in 1681. Dedicated to Lord Neel Madhav, this temple is constructed on the same line of architecture of original temple in Puri, Odisha. The Trilokpur temple, almost 23 km away from Nahan was built by Raja Dip Prakash in 1573 and is devoted to goddess Mahamaya Bala Sundri. Millions of pilgrims from northern India visit this temple during the Navratri festival in October and April when a fair is held. The Dhaula Kuan is packed with numerous orchards housing plants of citrus fruits and mango trees and there is a fruit canning factory nearby. Apart from sprawling orchards, one will also find a Kastasan Devi temple close by which was built by Raja Jagat Singh who defeated the army of Rustam Qadir Rohilla and represents the victory in the battle. Rani Tal is a nature’s treat that is also known for its royal past. This place with its calm and serene surroundings is ideal for picnic while enjoying a boat ride in lake. Once a retreat for the royal family, today this lake bound by lush green lawns with a temple located near the lake devoted to Lord Shiva. The Jamu Peak offers splendid views of Renuka Lake from the top and is located almost 8 km from the lake and houses a small temple where it is believed that sage Jamadagni meditated. The Simbalwada Wildlife Sanctuary is home to various migratory birds and wild animals and consists of sal forests and lush green grassland with meandering streams in this natural part of Shivaliks. Sambhar, Chittal, Goral red jungle fowl, Partridges barking deer and wild boar are some of the birds and animals found here.

Sirmour
Also known as the Peach bowl of India, Sirmour is untouched by industrialisation and offers visitors picturesque landscapes, rocky hills to trek, serene lakes and beautifully built temples. Situated at an elevation of 3,646 meters, Churdhar is a beautiful place where according to myth, in the Ramayana, this is where Lord Hanuman came to find herbs for the severely injured Lakshmana and later carried the whole hill. The Renuka lake in Nahan is a located at an elevation of 672 m and is the largest lake in the state surrounded by green trees and hills. Sunrises and sunsets here are stunning here. Located near the pristine and clear Renuka Lake, Renukaji is a popular pilgrim spot also housing a gaming sanctuary and a wildlife reserve and is famous for the festival that is celebrated during Kartika Ekadashi. The Habban valley houses many temples built by the Rajput rulers including the Shirgul Devta temple, the Palu Devta temple and the Tokro Tibba Kali temple. Haripur Dhar
is a popular mountain for trekking at an altitude of 2687 m with a temple dedicated to Maa Bhangayani called Maa Bhangayani temple at the top as well as a fort. Bhureshwar Mahadev is where according to myth is where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati saw the famous war of Kurukshetra in the epic of Mahabharata from here. This place is visited by a lot of Pilgrims and tourists because of this famous myth. This place is full of lush green trees and hills. Located around the Renuka lake is the Renuka Wildlife Park where a variety of animals and birds such as the Asiatic lions, lion tailed macaques, Indian antelopes, red-jungle fowls, chitals, sambars, peacocks and black-pheasants can be found. There is a mini zoo also in the sanctuary which has provision for trekking, lion safaris and boating as well as tourist accommodations and cafeterias.

Paonta Sahib
A vibrant, industrial town Paonta Sahib, on the banks of the Yamuna river which forms the boundary between the states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, was founded by the Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji. The Gurudwara Paonta Sahib has linkages to the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh and the Sikh leader Banda Singh Bahadur. Its original name was Paontika and in the Hindi language, Paon means feet and tika means became a stable. It is believed that Guru Gobind Singh and his horse stopped at this place, and he decided to stay here, living here for four and a half years, having never stayed so long at any other place in his entire life. He wrote many Sikh religious books during the stay and then moved to Anandpur Sahib to establish the Khalsa Panth. The Gurudwara houses a museum containing antiques and weapons used by Guru Gobind Singh. Paonta Sahib is the birthplace of Ajit Singh, the eldest son Of Guru Gobind Singh. In his memoirs, Guru Gobind Singh Ji has described his time in the city as the happiest years of his life where he witnessed amusements of various kinds. The place where the Gurdwara now stands is where Guru Ji stayed with his family. The gurdwara also has a museum with Guru Ji’s war antiques and other weapons. The Palki on which the religious Sikh text, Guru Granth Sahib Ji is kept, is made of pure gold.

The Gurudwara Paonta Sahib is a sacred shrine for the adherents of the Sikh faith. There are cultural events and reading held on its premises during the evenings and houses a museum which displays the several antiques and weaponry that Shri Guru Gobind Singh used during his stay over here. The Assan Lake is a picturesque lake offering a wide array of recreational activities like rowing, boating and paddling with adventure sports like water skiing and hovercraft rides also available and restaurants on the lakeside premises that offer a broad spectrum of cuisines.

Shoghi
A hidden gem just 13 km southwest of Shimla, Shogi is the perfect counterpoint to the crowds in Shimla. This small town offers visitors everything, from attractive old temples to adrenaline-teasing activities and its famous fruit made products. And amazing weather throughout the year, perfect accommodation facilities and just right surrounding to rejuvenate the mind and soul, all contributes to make the perfect holiday. A quiet and peaceful spot, Kandaghat is a lovely weekend getaway nestled amidst the Himalayas, offering great views of green valleys and high mountains, all this without the crowds. It is said that the sun here paints a brilliant picture twice every day during sunrise and sunset, with an otherwise a brilliant blue sky, free from smoke and pollution. Kandaghat lies on the way to Chail and is equidistant from Chail and Shimla. Shoghi is known as a city of temples and the Tara Devi temple, considered to be 250 years old is situated on the top of the Tara Parvat or hill. Devoted to the Tibetan Buddhists Goddess Tara, she is believed to be one of the nine sisters of Goddess Durga with the idol of the deity in wood as it is believed to be brought by the Sen dynasty from West Bengal. The Hanuman temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman is also fondly referred to as the Shri Sankat Mochan Temple with the temple walls adorned with paintings that narrate significant stories from Hindu mythology. At almost 150 years old, the Kali temple is situated 8500 ft above the sea level on the top of Jakhoo Hills. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, one can also find the idols of Goddess Chandi and Shyamala in the temple complex. The Viceregal Lodge is a perfect place for history lovers. Built in 1888, this six story building constructed in the Scottish Baronial style once served as the residence of Lord Dufferin, the British Viceroy of India. Today, this lodge houses several articles and pictures reminding visitors of India’s colonial past and is popularly known as the Rashtrapati Niwas. The Pabbar Valley, an enchanting valley of the Pabbar river is located in the belt that cuts through the Chanshal Mountain Range with apple orchards, majestic mountains, lush green meadows, dense oak & deodar forests. The valley terrain also is quite an attraction for adventure seekers with the densely covered slopes of the mountains providing for exciting trails waiting to be explored. The river Pabbar that forms the valley has crystal clear waters that come from the glacial ice of the Chandan Nahan Glacier located high in the snow-capped mountains surrounding the picturesque valley. Its vast stretch begins in the southern region of Kinnaur and extends to the boundaries of Uttarakhand before it connects to the river Tons and then drains into the river Yamuna. Pabbar, is also called a tributary of River Tons and the river is also considered a famous spot for fishing and angling, home to several species of fish like trout, goonch and the golden mahseer.

Kasauli
A hilly cantonment town, Kasauli is located on the southwestern part of the state between Chandigarh and Shimla and is on the relatively lower edges of Himalayas. Established by the British in 1842 as a colonial hill station, Kasauli is nestled amidst beautiful woody forests of pines, herbs and cedar trees with lavish Victorian buildings which speak volumes of its glorious past. Mainly known for its accessibility from Chandigarh and Delhi, Kasauli is all about the serene environment and a major attraction for trekkers and campers.

Kasauli’s Monkey point is the highest point of the town and has a small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman with some scenic views. From here, one can have a bird’s eye view of the nearby cities of Chandigarh, Kalka, and Panchkula from this point as well as the mighty Sutlej river which can be seen coursing its way through the mountains. Local legend dictates that while fetching the Sanjeevani herb for Laxman, Lord Hanuman’s foot touched this spot. The top of the hill is shaped like a foot and Tapp’s Nose was the name given to this unusual shape. The fresh mountain breeze coupled with the reverberating sounds of temple bells is something that should not be missed. Monkey Point is open from 9 am to 5 pm and has no entry fee.

Sunset Point is a popular yet very quiet spot to enjoy sunset with pine-laid landscapes, valleys and sceneries. Nearby is a trail or a path known as the Lover’s Lane which is a quiet walk through the valleys and some of Kasauli’s most calm and breath-taking sceneries. It is preferable to leave the area before its gets dark or late in the evening, as it tends to be a rather off-beat place with not to many facilities.

Gilbert Trail is an easy hike of 1.5 km which starts from Kasauli Club and ends at the Air Force Station, close to Sunset Point. The path is wide in the strat and gets narrow after a while and the trail is known for its views and different species of birds.

Timber Trail is an emerald beauty with its many pine and coniferous trees. One of the most sought-after destinations around the Parwanoo area, this trail is a favourite among the backpacker and student community. Well within the city and yet away from it still, the trail is the perfect place to seek serenity within the hustle bustle of the town. The view from the Timber Trail is breathtaking and is popular for its ropeway rides, a thrilling experience. The deep gorges right below the ropeway gives one an incredible adrenaline rush even without moving the feet! The ropeway covers a distance of about 1.8 km and costs INR 770 per person for a two-way ride. The ropeway provides a spectacular bird’s eye view of the entire town of Kasauli and should not be missed at all!

The Gorkha Fort is for people who are fascinated by the past and with history. The Gorkha Fort which is situated on a small hill known as Subathu is 16 km from Parwanoo and is believed to be founded by the Gurkha Army Chief Amar Singh Thapa to fight the British, but is in ruins today.

The Sri Baba Balak Nath temple is dedicated to Baba Balak Nath, an ardent follower of Lord Shiva. The belief surrounding this temple is that if childless couples come and pray here they will be blessed with children. The Kali Mata temple is an ancient temple situated 2 km from Parwanoo which is dedicated to Goddess Kali and is beleievd to have been visited by the Pandavas during their exile. The Shri Balaji temple is another ancient Hindu temple located in Parwanoo in a small village Bhairo ka Ser. This temple was buried in the earth until it was excavated in 1988 and since then the temple attracts tourists in large numbers.

The Gurudwara Shri Guru Nanakji is an important religious center and other than daily prayers and programmes, a special programme is held on the Sundays. The Gurudwara also offers accommodation facilities. Built in the year 1923 by the British, architecture of the Baptist Church is influenced by a blend of Indian and Victorian styles. The church was damaged by a fire in 2008 and all internal furnishings destroyed. Located in the centre of the city with the vibrant Mall road built around it, the Anglican Christ Church is a popular tourist spot constructed in 1853 and was built in the Gothic style of architecture. The church has beautiful Italian and Spanish stained glass windows depicting Christ, Mary, Saint Barnabas and Saint Francis and is a beautiful interlude.

Arki
A small town locally known for its 18th century fort, Arki is an off-beat destination that offers a unique blend of art, culture and heritage. Situated amidst the Shivalik hills, Arki is one of the smallest towns in the region and means a sunny place. Arki is famous the Arki Fort, the Luturu Mahadev temple and the Jakholy Devi temple. The majority of the architecture in Arki shows a blend of the Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles.

The Arki Fort was built by Rana Prithvi Singh and today turned into a heritage hotel. With a history of bloodshed, the fort has witnessed battles where the Gurkhas displayed great valour and bravery. This fort was built with a blend of Rajput and Mughal styles of architecture and is also influenced by Rajasthani aesthetics. Adorned with beautiful paintings which speak volumes of the Pahari style of art, the Arki Fort is a must visit place while in Arki. The Diwan-i-Khaas or the Audience Hall was bBuilt by Ram Shara Singh, and is a glorious building which houses paintings and frescos of myriad styles like the Rajasthani, Kullu, Kangra and Arki forms of art. The Arki Palace located on the western part of the Himalayas, houses countless paintings, frescos, sculptures, arms and artifacts and is known for the wall painting of Kalidasa’s Kumarasambhava as well as many imprints of the Baghal dynasty. Visitors should browse through the frescos done in the Arki Kalam style as well as paintings based on folklores and inscriptions from Puranas. From the palace, one can get a view of the entire city.

Situated atop a hillock in the most rugged and inhospitable of terrains, the Luturu Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and was built by the Raja of Bhagal in the year 1621. It is said that the King had a dream that Lord Shiva himself asked him to build the temple. The architecture of this temple is influenced by the Shikhara Style. Also constructed in the Shikhara style, the Bhadrakali Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and is considered to be one of the Shaktipeeths in the state. A 1000-year old temple, the Laxminarayan Temple is one of the very few temples which were not destroyed by the invading Muslims during the medieval period. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Goddess Lakshmi and Narasimhan, this temple adorns beautiful sculptures and figurines which boast of artistic finesse. A cave temple, the Shakhni Mahadev temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and built in accordance to the Shikhara style of architecture with views of the upper ranges of Himalayas. Dedicated to the Goddess Durga in the Shikara style, the Durga Temple is a hub of much color and festivity during the Navratri festival when an annual fair is organised by the temple.

Nalagarh
Also known as the Gateway to Himachal Pradesh, Nalagarh is known for its abundant greenery, serenity and beautiful views of the Shivalik hills. An emerging industrial town, the place is dotted with ruins of many forts which include fortifications of Chamba, Surajupur, Ramharh and Malaon. The Fort of Nalagarh was built in 1421 during the reign of Raja Bikram Chand on a hillock at the foothills of the mighty Himalayas and affords a panoramic view of the Shivalik hills beyond the Sirsa river which gave the erstwhile state its name. Today it is a heritage hotel which serves as an ideal getaway for the weekend clubbed with a fantastic view of the Shivalik Hills. It is situated in a vast 20-acre property adorned with forests, orchards and beautifully landscaped lawns. As one walks through the tallest door in the country, ambling past ancient sundials, bending to look inside a massive well or an unused tunnel, it would bring them back in time at the Ramgarh Fort. Built by Raja Ram Chander, the fort is located at the hilltop having the Shivalik range as a back drop. It is also a heritage hotel around an hour’s drive from Nalagarh.

Dadasiba
Dadasiba is an idyllic village in the Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh. Tourists often plan a visit to the Dadasiba temple during April, May and June to see the architectural jewel that was built throughout 18 years by Raja Ram Singh. To avoid visiting annual pilgrimage all the way to Mathura as an ardent follower of Krishna, Raja Ram Singh constructed a Radha Krishna temple in his kingdom of Dadasiba. The mural on the inside of the temple showcase the king’s rich taste in beauty and grandeur.

Bilaspur
India’s first planned hill station, Bilaspur is famous for its forts and Gobind Sagar lake, a man-made reservoir considered the lifeline of the district which provides water to the Bhakra Nangal Dam. The Bhakra Nangal Dam across the Satluj River stores up to 9.34 billion cubic meters of water. Called the New Temple of Resurgent India, by India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, the dam attracts a significant number of tourists from all over the country. Together with the Nangal Dam, the dams are called the Bhakra Nangal Dam which are multi purpose dams and one of the highest gravity dams in the world. The Gobindsagar reservoir created by the dam is the third largest reservoir in India and holds water in right ways and prevents the fields from being damaged during monsoons. For security reasons visitors to Bhakra Nangal were banned in 2009. The dam is open from 8 am to 3:20 pm. The Koldam Dam, built on Satluj river is located about 18 km from Bilaspur and draws engineering buffs because of the massive engineering marvel it is. The dam is surrounded by natural landscapes and is often preferred by picnickers for a quick escape. A top view of the massive dam is a breathtaking sight and the abundance of natural beauty of the location and the massive engineering marvel must be explored. The Gobind Sagar Lake with its scenic views of rolling hills and plains overlooking the azure blue tint of the man-made reservoir is an alluring sight. The gigantic reservoir is formed on the Sutlej river by the Bhakra Dam and is the third largest reservoir in the country. The dam gates are closed before sunset for safety concerns, although the lake can be visited anytime through different routes. There are temples that lie below the water and only rise when the water level receeds. 28 temples were submerged as a result of Bhakara Dam Reservoir out of which 12 are of great importance belonging to the 8th and 19th centuries. The Kandraur Bridge on the Sutlej river was once the highest bridge in Asia and at a height of 80 meters, is still one of the highest in the world. The bridge is surrounded by limestone rocks and the river below is in maximum verve during the summers, due to the water from the melting of Himalayan glaciers.

A cave on the banks of the Sutlej rivee where the author of the epic, the Mahabharata, Rishi Ved Vyas spent time in penance. The Vyas Cave is situated at a height of 610 m and lies on the left bank of Sutlej and grant the town it’s name which was earlier known as Vyaspur. The Laxmi Narayan Mandir dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and her consort Lord Vishnu is constructed according to the Shikhara Shaily type of architecture and is a pristine white temple. The stately temple has beautiful idols of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi as well as idols of Lord Shiva, Goddess Durga, Lord Ranganath and Baba Bangali. The entire structure is made of white marble, and door frames are coloured brick red. For ventilation, it has rectangular jali-work that is consistently found all around the walls of the temple. The temple is open between 6 am to 7 pm daily. The Markandeya Rishi temple is dedicated to Markandeya Rishi and is located 20 km from Bilaspur. The deity is considered to be extremely powerful and has a spring nearby which is considered to be holy as it is said to have medicinal properties. The idol of the deity is a unique feature of the temple as devotees believe Rishi Markandeya can cure them of many physical and medical ailments with many childless couples visiting the temple to offer their prayers in the hopes of having a child. A dip in the holy spring is also said to cure infertility along with many other diseases. The temple is open from 6 am to 7 pm daily. The Sri Naina Devi Ji temple is situated on a hilltop at a height of 1219 m above sea level and built by Raja Bir Chand in the 8th century. The temple was constructed on a triangular hillock and is considered one of the 52 Shakti Peeths. The most widespread story associated with the temple is that Goddess Sati burnt herself alive in a Yagna, which distressed Lord Shiva who then picked the corpse of Sati on his shoulder and started his Taandav dance. This horrified all deities in the heaven as this could lead to a holocaust who then urged Lord Vishnu to unleash his Chakra that cut the Sati’s body into 51 pieces. The Shri Naina Devi Temple is the place where eyes of Sati fell, hence the name, Sri Naina Devi Ji. The Nahar Singh Dhaulra is a temple dedicated to Baba Nahar Singh and holds his wooden slippers. The temple holds town fairs on Tuesdays from mid May to mid June.

Bachhretu Fort is an ancient fort that was built in the 14th century during the reign of the king of Bilaspur, Raja Ratan Chand. Once a magnificent structure, it is now in ruins. Some of the walls stand at about the same height they were built in and are a characteristic feature of the fort. This property now comes under the Archaeological Survey of India and has been open to the public. The ruins of Bachhretu Fort lie at an elevation of 3000 feet above sea level. The views of the surrounding hills and the serene Gobind Sagar Lake is best viewed from the fort. The premise also has a temple dedicated to Asht Bhuja, the Goddess with eight arms. Idols of some more deities can also be seen inside the temple. The Kahlur Fort or Kot-Kahlur built about 3600 feet above sea level was initially was known as Kahlur, a princely state during the British era. The fort served as a palace for the King of Bilaspur, Raja Bir Chand who ruled between 697 and 730. Made entirely made of stone, the fort is open from 8 am to 5 pm with views from the top of the fort just mind-stirring. The Tiun and Sriun Forts are located on two different mountain peaks facing each other. Tiun Fort is located on the Tiun range of hills while the Sriun Fort is located on the eastern side of the Tiun range. What remains today are just the ruins, but the fortifications are still considered to be having immense historical importance. The Tiun Fort spreads over an area of 14 hectares on the hilltop, and the structure is said to be 10 metres tall. The Sriun Fort is a structure entirely made of stones. Locals believe that the stones from the fort cannot be used to build any other house as it brings bad luck. The location of the forts makes them one of the best sites to view the sunrises and sunsets. It is advised to visit the forts between sunrise and sunset. The Bahadurpur Fort was once a majestic fort but is in remains today.

Dalhousie
Also called the Little Switzerland of India, the tiny town of Dalhousie is called a paradise boasting of an old-world charm, mesmerising natural landscapes, pine-clad valleys, flower-bedecked meadows, fast-flowing rivers and magnificent misty mountains. A favourite summer destination of the British, the Scottish and Victorian architecture in the town transports one to a pollution-free environment in the lap of nature situated on five hills at an elevation of 1,970 m above sea level. Dalhousie was named after The Earl of Dalhousie, the then British Governor-General of India who established this as a summer retreat.

Surrounded by a cover of fresh, green pine and deodar trees, Panchpula is a waterfall and a popular picnic spot best known for trekking and its marvellous, cascading beauty. Five streams come together to form this waterfall, and Panchpula’s main stream supplies water to many areas of Dalhousie. The main stream originates from the northern side of Dain Kund and is a sight for sore eyes. A samadhi or monument is built near Panchpula in the memory of Sardar Ajit Singh, the uncle of Saheed Bhagat Singh, who breathed his last here. This fall is best enjoyed during the monsoons, when the water gushes down the falls and the surroundings leave you stupefied. A great place for photography, Panchpula is the base for many treks in the area with the most popular one being the one from Panchpula to Dainkund Peak. The falls are open between 9 am to 6 pm.

The stunning Satdhara Falls is surrounded by fantastic views of the Chamba valley, with snow-covered ranges and fresh, green pine and deodar trees. Satdhara means seven springs and this waterfall brings together the waters of seven springs with their meeting point at 2036 m above sea level. The water here is said to contain mica, which has medicinal properties and can cure skin diseases. One can also opt to trek to the Satdhara Falls through the wilderness with soft breezes rustling trees and leaves. Sunsets from the falls are splendid.

Also known as the Singing Hill, the Dainkund Peak is perched at an elevation of 2755 m above sea level and is the highest point in Dalhousie. Because of this, the peak offers a bird’s eye view of the verdant valleys and mountains with tall Deodar trees and colourful flower valleys. As one makes their way upwards, they can hear the gentle breeze passing through the trees making a musical sound. The scenic charm of the Khajjar lake and the picturesque view of the mud houses amidst lush greenery is a treat to the eyes. The Pholani Devi temple is a restful interlude at the peak. The 4.5 km trail to the peak is an easy to moderate level trek as one passes through lush green fir and deodar forests of Dalhousie. The ascent to the peak begins after crossing Lakkar Mandi. The Dainkund Peak trek takes one along a beautiful ridge which offers panoramic views of spectacular valleys and snow-clad mountains. It is believed to have been the favourite hangout spot for some witches and hence the name Dain Kund which translates to Witch’s Pond.

Ganji Pahari is a scenic hill located at a distance of 5 kilometres from Dalhousie. The name Ganji Pahari was derived because of the complete absence of flora on the hill with Ganji meaning bald and Pahari meaning Hill in the local language. The natural landscape makes it an exciting trekking trail and its accessibility also makes Ganji Pahari a favourite picnic spot. During winters, the same terrain is covered in a thick coat of snow, and the panoramic view it offers is just breathtaking. A trip to Ganji Pahari can also be accompanied by a guide who can be hired from Dalhousie and is one of the best ways to explore the place instead of wandering around clueless. The brilliant colours reflecting from the landscape surrounding the hill is mesmerising at any time of the day, but the misty sunsets and sunrises are the best features to see from Ganji Pahari. The trek to Ganji Pahari begins from Dalhousie and trekkers walk through the town before taking the route to Panchpula. At a point in Panchpula, the trekking trail goes through a rugged and uneven route till the top of the hill. This climb is about 6 km and offers beautiful views of the landscape.

Sach Pass is a mountain pass that runs over the Pir Panjal Mountain range, at the height of 4500 m and connects Dalhousie with the Chamba and Pangi Valleys. At a distance of 150 km from Dalhousie, it is one of the most difficult passes to cross in North India. The pass plays an important role in the region as it is the shortest route to Killar and has helped reduce the travel distance between Pathankot and Leh and so is the preferred route for locals to reach the Chamba or Pangi valleys, and is a famous point for trekking from Dalhousie.

Bakrota Hills, also known as Upper Bakrota, is the highest area in Dalhousie and is circled by a road called Bakrota walk which leads to Khajjiar. With a handful of estates here, the area does not have too much to attract tourists but is ideal for strolls and to look around and enjoy scenic views. The area is surrounded by deodar trees and hills all around.

Located near Dalhousie, the Chamera Lake is the man-made reservoir for the Chamba Dam. The lake and the dam are complementary to each other and add to the view. During monsoons, the flooding of river Ravi causes the Chamera to look like a miniature but majestic version of the Arabian Sea and is a popular picnic spot and boating location. At 763 m above sea level, one can explore the lake on a speed boat or a rowboat.

Named after the freedom fighter Subhash Chandra Bose, Subhash Baoli is a perennial spring which has medicinal properties and is believed to have cured the freedom fighter of his ill health. Located 1 km from Gandhi Chowk in Dalhousie, this serene spot is visited by locals and visitors alike who come to enjoy the natural beauty, with the expanded views of the snow-dusted mountains in the distance. Situated near these springs is a beautiful waterfall which flows into a glacial stream. The Rock Garden is a beautiful garden and a popular picnic spot which also has several adventure sports available in the area including zip lining etc.

Garam Sadak is a road in Dalhousie connecting Gandhi Chowk and Subhash Chowk offering scenic vistas of the valley below. Lined with tall trees and green vegetation, taking a walk on this scenic road is one of the most touristy things to do in Dalhousie. One can also be able to see beautiful Tibetan Rock Paintings adorning the walls of the road on the side.

Built in 1863, the St John’s Church is the oldest church in Dalhousie and a favourite amongst photographers because of the steady mix of beauty and history. A library neighbours the church, where one can find a lot of book about the town’s history. The Sunday Service performed here is attended by the locals and tourists alike. The interior of the church is adorned with stunning glass paintings of St John the Baptist along with St Peter. The church is open between 7 am and 7 pm daily.

The Chamunda Devi Temple dedicated to Goddess Kali is said to have been where Goddess Ambika killed the demons Munda and Chanda. The deity is kept wrapped in a red cloth, sacred and untouched by the visitors and offers beautiful views.

Memories and Such

Memories of a very ordinary life

Travel Bucket List: India – Himachal Pradesh Part 3

In My Hands Today…

World Health Day

In My Hands Today…

Travel Bucket List: India – Himachal Pradesh Part 2