Kalpa is a small village located in the Sutlej river valley, above Reckong Peo,  in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh which is known as “snow-laden province” , a state in northern part of India located in the Western Himalayas. Geographically it is covered by states of Jammu and Kashmir on the north, Punjab on the west, Haryana on the southwest, Uttarakhand on the southeast, and Tibet on the east. As the southernmost point,touches the state of Uttar Pradesh, the state’s name was coined from the Sanskrit—Him means ‘snow’ and achal means ‘land’ or ‘abode’. Himachal is a mountainous state in the western Himalayas covering an area of 55,673 square kilometers (21,495 sq mi), Most of the state lies on the foothills of the Dhauladhar Range. At 6,816 m Reo Purgyil is the highest mountain peak in the state of Himachal Pradesh.The state is spread across valleys. About 90% of the state’s population lives in rural areas. Many perennial rivers flow in the state with numerous Hydro-Power plants producing surplus electricity that is sold to other states. Tourism and agriculture are also important constituents of the state’s economy. Himachal Pradesh Tour organized by Himalayan Destination includes Kalpa Kinnaur tour packages to make your vacation memorable one.

The drainage system of Himachal is composed both of rivers and glaciers. Himalayan rivers criss-cross the entire mountain chain. Himachal Pradesh provides water to both the Indus and Ganges basins. The drainage systems of the region are the Chandra Bhaga or the Chenab, the Ravi, the Beas, the Sutlej, and the Yamuna. These rivers are perennial and are fed by snow and rainfall. They are protected by an extensive cover of natural vegetation.

As per the latest report, Himachal Pradesh has around 463 birds, 77 mammalian, 44 reptile and 80 fish species. The Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Pin Valley National Park are the national Parks located in the state. The state also has 30 wildlife sanctuaries and 3 conservation reserves.

Here are the detailed description of the spots in Himachal Pradesh trip package

Kinnaur

Kinnaur, is one of twelve administrative districts in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, India. The district is consisted of three administrative areas – Pooh, Kalpa, and Nichar (Bhabanagar) and has five tehsils (counties). Reckong Peo is the administrative headquarters of Kinnaur district.  Kinnaur Kailash, is considered to be the abode of Lord Shiva, is visible from here. Kinnaur, is about 235 km (146 mi) from the state capital. Shimla, located in the northeast corner of Himachal Pradesh bordering Tibet to the east. The high mountains ranges namely, Zanskar and Himalayas that enclose valleys of Sutlej, Spiti, Baspa and their tributaries.

Kalpa

Kalpa, a small town in the Sutlej river valley, above Recong Peo located at the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, Northern India, in the Indian Himalaya. It is one of the spot of Kalpa Kinnaur tour packages. It is Inhabited by Kinnauri people and famous for its apple orchards. The major cash-crop for the region is Apple. The local inhabitants follow amalgamation of Hinduism and Buddhism. The most amazing concept is that many of the temples in Kalpa are dedicated to both Hindu and Buddhist Gods and Goddesses.
It has an average elevation of 2,960 metres. Kalpa is 265 km from Shimla on the NH-5 in Kinnaur district located at the base of the Kinnaur Kailash snow-capped ranges. The Shivling peaks rise up to 20,000 feet (6,000 m), which changes its color at different points in the day. Kalpa is surrounded by apple orchards, pine-nut forests and the stately Deodhars. It is above the town of Reckong Peo, the district headquarters of Kinnaur, which has a hundred-year-old Buddhist monastery.
Travelers have to stop to get their Inner Line Permits in Reckong Peo to continue upwards to the Spiti Valley, a small ancient part of what used to be Tibet. Spiti Valley is also known as Mini Ladakh

Shimla or Simla

Shimla or Simla is the capital of the state of Himachal Pradesh in India. It is a very popular holiday-retreat during the summer months and is well-known for its Victorian architecture, which is reflected in certain areas of the Mall and The Ridge. It is also a famous holiday spot of Kalpa Kinnaur tour package and popular as honeymoon spot. The elevation of Shimla is 2276 m above from the sea level.
Shimla is one of most aesthetically planned cities in India and It is surrounded by beautiful hills and mystical woods. An erstwhile summer capital of British India, this town’s captivating natural beauty, and the atmosphere are bound to leave any tourist overwhelmed. The well-knit roads, impeccable cleanliness, and an efficient administration make for a perfect combination for any tourist destination in the world. This town has colonial-style buildings alongside the historic temples and the amalgamation of the worlds leaves everyone visiting this region spellbound. Within this city, one must visit the Mall Road, The Ridge, Institute of Advanced Studies and Jakhu Temple. Shimla is also used as a base to cover other nearby places like Chail, Kufri, Naldehra, Mashobra, Tattapani and Narkanda. The Toy Train to Shimla from Kalka passes through beautiful hills, valleys and is one of the most beautiful train routes in the world. From Kalka to Shimla Toy train route passes through 108 nos of tunnels makes more attractive.
There are quite a few theories regarding the origin of the word Shimla. Locals insist that the name originates from Shyamali Devi, a re-incarnation of the fearsome Goddess Kali.

Solan

Solan, located on the Punjab-Himachal Border, Solan lies on the lower ranges of the Himalayas and is more of an industrial town with various industries. Solan is a more low-key hill station ideal for travelers looking just some time away from city rush. A beautiful city Solan in Himachal Pradesh, a center of worship. having number of ancient temples and monasteries which attract hundreds of tourists and devotees every year. At the top of the hill, the city also has a 300-year old fort which is in ruins but has an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the countryside. The Shoolini Mata Temple and jatoli Shiv Temple are must-visits for both devotees and tourists. Yundung Monastery is one of the most famous monasteries in this region. It is a visiting spot on the way to Solan of Kalpa Kinnaur Tour package..
Solan has one of the oldest breweries in the country and is popularly known as The Mushroom Capital of the country owing to the amount of Mushrooms produced every year. Solan is also called as The City of Red Gold as it produces bulk quantities of tomatoes.

The Mall

The main shopping centre of Shimla is the Mall. This shopping centre has a good number of banks, restaurants, post offices, clubs, bars and tourists offices. There is a famous theatre of Shimla called Gaiety Theatre. The Mall is also the main meeting place for the people of Shimla. Statue of Mahatma Gandhi just outside Christ Church located at the heart of the Mall. Tourist used to visit here for side scene under Kalpa Kinnaur or Shimla Manali package.

The Ridge

The Ridge, built at the top of the town at 2230m, The Ridge is the center of Shimla’s cultural and social life – an excellent place to view the surrounding mountains.

Christ Church

Another side scene of the Shimla Manali or Kalpa Kinnaur tour package is Christ Church, The Ridge (Near Municipal Library). Open every day, services Su 8:00AM-11:00AM. Constructed in 1846, this is the second oldest church of the North India. The stain-glass windows, representing charity, faith, patience, hope, fortitude and humility, and 19th century organ are particularly impressive. The fresco that surrounds the chapel window was designed by Lockwood Kipling, Rudyard Kipling’s father.

Lower Bazaar

The Mall (Below Central Section). Shops Open Mo-Sa. Less expensive hotels, cheaper restaurants and stores of the city is available here. And a congested wholesale vegetable market is there to buy low cost vegetables. Although less opulent than its upper neighbor, the Lower Bazaar retains an old worldly charm and is an excellent place to try some Shimla specialty dishes, like Uradh Dal with rice or Shepard’s Pie. It also sells clothes and household items.

Viceregal Lodge

The Rashtrapati Niwas, formerly known as Viceregal Lodge, is located on the Observatory Hills of Shimla (Only the entrance hall and gardens are open to the public). This lodge is now part of the Institute of Advanced Studies. An imposing British-raj mansion built under the guidance of Lord Dufferin in 1888. Manicured British style gardens surround the mansion on three sides, while the fourth side is a place to relax and watch the sun dip below the Himalayan foothills. The teak-paneled interior is impressive, and well worth a viewing. This lodge is a 1 hour walk from the end of the mall, near the Oberoi hotel.

Sangla Valley / Baspa Valley

The Sangla Valley / Baspa Valley, starts at Karcham and ends at Chitkul. Sangla is the major town in the valley with a petrol pump, Bank ATMs, Post Office, Restaurants, Bar, mid range hotels and shops. Sangla is a scenic and popular hilly area that is located in the Baspa Valley of Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh, beautifully nestled in the lap of the Himlayas. Situated close to the Tibetan border, Sangla is surrounded by forest slopes and mountains. This valley is located at the distance of 30 km from the Tibetan border and stretches from Karcham where the Baspa River in the east joins Satluj. In Tibetan language, the word ‘Sangla’ means ‘Pass of Light’. The villages in this place feature houses and temples that are built in Kinnauri wood and stone style. The serene Sangla valley is flanked by thick forests of Himalayan cedar and known as an abode to alder, spruce and the unusual birch. The place attracts every tourist with its beautiful Temples, Gompas, and friendly habitants.
The valley is surrounded by forested slopes and offers views of the high mountains. Its location in the greater Himalayan range gives it a milder climate than the plains. The Baspa River flows in the Sangla Valley which is rich in apple orchards, apricot, Wall-nut, Cedar trees, and glacial streams with trout. Travelling to Sangla offers one the opportunity to take in the pleasant view of the region dominated by pine nut orchards, cherry trees and apples. The glacial streams and the villages in this region like Karchham, Chitkul and Batseri add charm to its beauty. The main villages in the valley villages include Chitkul, Rakcham, Batseri, Themgarang, Kamru. Besides the natural beauty of Great Himalaya Kamru Fort, 14th Century Lord Badri Nath Ji Temple , Mata Devi Temple & Bearing Nag Temples are the main attractions of the Valley. Kamru Fort in this region is also one of the prime attractions of Sangla, which is an ancient fort but now it has been converted into a temple which is dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi. Other attractions of this region include Kanda Trout Farm, Sapni, etc. Moreover, the popular festival ‘Fulainch’ is also celebrated with zest and many tourists crowd the region during this time to enjoy this annual flower festival.

Sangla Valley is a part of Kinnaur and inhibited by Kinnauris. The main livelihood is agriculture while apples are a major cash crop here. The most significant achievement of this region which is worth laudable is that this area boasts of growing the world’s best quality apples. The weather along with the soil are both conducive to its exclusive and superior variety and quality. A part of the population also depends on tourism. The valley remains closed for six months during winter (from December till may) when the snowfall is heavy. The old Indo-Tibet road connects Sangla to The National Highway 05 at Karcham.

Chitkul

One of the tourist spot of thhe Kallpa Kinnaur packagge isChitkul, which is a village in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, located at an elevation of 3450m above from sea level. It is the last inhabited village near the Indo-China border. The Indian road ends here. During winters, the place mostly remains covered with the heavy snow and the inhabitants move to lower regions of Himachal. Potatoes grown at Chittkul are one of the best in the world and are very costly. Chitkul, on the banks of Baspa River, is the first village of the Baspa Valley and the last village on the old Hindustan-Tibet trade route. It is also the last point in India one can travel to without any special permit.

Tara Devi Temple

Tara Devi Temple, is named after one of the many forms of Goddess Kali. This well-maintained temple is located at the top of a steep hill about 11 kms from Shimla bus stand. There are stunning views of Shimla town and the Himalayas. This is a perfect location for people who are looking for some rest and peace at a high altitude, around 6070 ft. The temple is very clean with a beautiful flower garden surrounding it.

Chadwick Falls

Chadwick Falls, 7 km away from Shimla, the inviting spot of Chadwick Falls is a premier travel destination. A trip to the Chadwick Falls during the monsoons will be an unforgettable experience. Located in an incredible landscape, the place is home to some old shrines that are sites of immense significance for pilgrims.

Dorje Drag Monastery

Dorje Drag Monastery, Sarasvati Garden Estate, Kusmuti. A monastery in the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, also known as Thubten Evam Dorje Drag.

Kufri

Kufri, in Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh is one of the most sought after holiday destinations, and more so for couples, because of its proximity to Shimla and relatively higher altitude which makes it a place with snow all through the winters.
The distance between Kufri & Shimla is just about 10 km and is quite a retreat if you’re in Shimla and snow is something which excites you. There’s not much to see in Kufri as such, but the panoramic views and temples after a bit of trekking are worth the time. Kufri itself is mostly treated as a spot for the tourists visiting Shimla and it is advisable to club sightseeing in Shimla or nearby areas like Chail, Mashobra, Naldehra or Narkanda as well if you intend to visit Kufri. Also, Kufri is a relatively crowded and popular attraction as almost everyone visiting Shimla comes here.
Kufri Amusement Park located at 8500 ft. above sea level offering adventure activities like Burma Bridge Crossing, Flying Fox, Commando Net, Rock Climbing etc and also activities like Boating, Bump’em Cars, Rides, Indoor Golf and a number of virtual reality, redemption & video games. Other attractions include Restaurant, Coffee Shop, Shopping, Telescopic View etc. The food at the restaurant is excellent.

Chail

Chail, is a quiet hill station close to Shimla, known for the world’s highest cricket ground and the heritage hotel, Chail Palace, in the midst of pine and deodar trees. Surrounded by lush greenery and mesmerizing views from such a great height, known as a hiker’s paradise, Chail is bound to give a tourist a memorable travelling experience to a tourist. This place is famous for having the world’s highest cricket and polo grounds and has a luxurious resort situated on three hilltops. Once the summer capital of The Patiala, the palace has now been converted into a hotel and a tourist destination. This is the quintessential destination for tourists looking for a calm and relaxed vacation away from the more bustling and crowded tourist destinations in this state. Being the summer capital of the majestic kings of Patiala, the most famous place to visit in Chail is their palace which has now been converted into a heritage hotel. One must also visit the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary and the famous cricket ground.

Narkanda

Narkanda, surrounded by forests and woodlands, Narkanda is a quaint little town in Shimla district which is popular for skiing in winters.
Situated at a height of 9000 feet, this town attracts tourists for its ethereal natural beauty and its beautiful apple orchards. Surrounded by tropical forests and majestic hills, this is one place that tourists to Himachal Pradesh should not miss. Narkanda also has a lake called the Tannu Jabar Lake which is one of the most important tourist attraction here. There also exists a temple near the lake which is a must visit for all tourists and devotees coming here. Narkanda also has various trekking routes which all adventure-seekers should go for. Narkanda has a beautiful hill called Hatu Nag which one can trek up to. This hill offers a panoramic view of the town below and all adventure lovers traveling to this town should try it. One can also go for skiing during the winters.

Mashobra

Mashobra, is a lush green expanse in Himachal Pradesh, tucked away at a height of about 7700 feet, ensuring minimal human obstruction in the course of nature to provide you with the most pure and liberating experience of your lifetime.
Mashobra’s proximity to Shimla makes it a perfect alternative for people who are looking for a peaceful little hill-station. With just about enough resorts and enchanting natural bounty, come to Mashobra if you have a for a lazy weekend outing or a week-long vacation.

Sankat Mochan

Sankat Mochan, A popular Hanuman temple is located here. You can have an excellent view of Shimla from the temple. It can be reached by car or on foot.

Rampur

It is one of famous place en-route Kalpa-Kinnaur. Rampur, is located an average elevation of 1021 m (4429 feet). It is a very beautiful place situated at the bank of the river Satluj. The city is nearby to popular places like Jhakri, Sarahan Busahr, Green valley Dhar Gaura and Shraikoti to name a few. The city is also the home to Asia’s Largest Hydro Power Project – The Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Power Station built by Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd.(formerly known as Nathpa Jhakri Power Corporation) at Jhakri and world’s deepest Surge shaft at a Shah (22 km from Rampur).

Sarahan

A major tourist destination, Sarahan,a beautiful hamlet which is located at the Sutlej Valley, in the district of Shimla,  Himachal Pradesh. This place offers visitors the opportunity to explore nature at its best. Placed at an average altitude of about 2165 m above sea level, the place is popular for its apple orchards, pine forests, small streams, rustic settings and slate roofed houses.
Once in Sarahan, one beholds a range of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks and one of them is the Shrikhand Peak. The rather peculiar thing about Shrikhand peak is that it is only one whose tip remains uncovered with snow. In the evening, sunrays adorn the peaks and the sight is simply stupendous.
It is the site of the Bhimakali Temple, originally known as Bhimadevi Temple, dedicated to the mother goddess Bhimakali, presiding deity of the rulers of the former Bushahr State. The temple is situated about 170 kilometres from Shimla and is one of 51 Shakti Peethas. The village is known as the “gateway of Kinnaur” it being near the old Indo-Tibetan Road. Seven kilometers below (17 km by road) Sarahan is the river Satluj. Sarahan is identified with the Shonitpur mentioned in Puranas. Sarahan Bushahr has been the summer capital of Bushahr kingdom, with Rampur Bushahr considered the winter capital.
The Bhimakali Temple houses the “Kuldevi” (the presiding deity of the dynesty) of Bushahr Kingdom. The Bhimakali Temple contains both Hindu and Vajrayāna Buddhist statues and decorations which reflect the trade through here between India and Tibetan regions through ancient Indo-Tibetan Road. The traces of old Indo-Tibetan road still passes through Shalabag near Sarahan. It also shows Kushan influence in its architecture and possibly some of the images in it are Kushan (1st to 3rd centuries CE).
There are two adjacent temple buildings. One is old and resurrected, and the other is relatively new. The temple is built in an Indo-Tibetan style of architecture, is called Kath kuni Architecture. Alternate rows of grooved and interlocked stones and wood provide strength to the walls. Thick walls with lower roofs found in typical mountainous region buildings provide warmth during winters. Bushahr kings are believed to be dynastic priests of the Bhimakali temple, and used to reside in temple premises before moving to palace 100 meters from the temple.

Jalori Pass

Jalori Pass, is located at a height of 3,120 meters (10,236 ft). It connects Tirthan Valley with Shimla district, Kinnaur district & Kullu district as well as Kullu districty with Kinnaur district directly.

How to reach Jalori Pass

There are two ways that you can reach Jalori Pass; one via Shimla; and the other one via Mandi. It actually makes it possible to complete the trip in the form of a circuit. You can start from Shimla and exit via Mandi; or vice versa. Both the routes are almost the same in terms of time and distance and are both equally scenic. You can either drive by your own car or motorcycle; or travel by public transport. The best and most convenient way would be to bring your own vehicle; but if that was not an option, then modes of public transport like Buses, Shared cabs, private taxis too are available on the route.
For the sake of explaining the routes below, assuming Chandigarh as your starting point. However, even if you were coming from a different city, going through the information below will at least give you a fair idea on how to reach Jalori Pass.
Reach Jalori Pass from Shimla, side is mostly preferred by motorcycle enthusiasts, or people who want to do the journey in the form of a circuit. You can start from Shimla, cross Jalori Pass, exit at Tirthan Valley and then return home via Mandi. Route of the Journey will be as mentioned below.

Chandigarh to Kandaghat to Shimla to Narkanda to Kingal to Anni to Khanag to Jalori Pass

Traveling this way, the total journey will take around 285 km, depending on the location of Chandigarh you started from. This is necessarily a 2 days journey with a night halt at either Shimla or Narkanda. It cannot be completed in a single day unless you drove non-stop for around 15 hours. It will just make the journey too tiring and it will not recommend also.
Starting from Chandigarh, you will turn on the Himalayan Expressway and reach Shimla. There is some road widening work happening on this stretch so traffic may be a little slow. After Shimla, continue driving for another 2 hours and stay in Narkanda for the night. If you got late somewhere or wanted to, you can break the journey in Shimla as well.

Shimla / Narkanda to Jalori Pass, your have to drive on Day 2 will be of a total of about 7 to 8 hours so you will have some time for sightseeing as well. There are a few tourist places in Narkanda that are worth visiting but for you, Hatu Peak will pretty much be the only one. You can start early in the morning and take a drive to Hatu Peak. There is a motorable road all the way to the top so you can bring your car or motorcycle along. Visiting Hatu Peak takes around 2 hours from Narkanda.
After Hatu Peak, have breakfast in the town and start driving towards Kingal. Do not forget to tank up at the petrol station at Narkanda. From Kingal, you will then take the road towards Anni and then climb up the Jalori Pass.
Once you cross Jalori, you will enter into the beautiful Tirthan Valley. There are several hotels here where you can stay for the night. Towns like Shoja, Jibhi, Banjar, and Gushaini are all well-known tourist places and good enough to stay.
Seruvalsar Lake or Sirolsar Lake or Serol Sar Lake, is a high altitude lake in the Seraj Valley. The lake is located at an altitude of 3,100 m and is accessible via Jalori pass. The trek for this lake starts right from the top of the pass and is usually a prime attraction of Jalori Pass or Tirthan Valley trip.
If trekking to the lake was on your itinerary then you have two choices. There is a camp site next to the lake where you can stay for the night. So either you can drive up to the top of the pass, leave your vehicles there, trek to the lake and stay there for the night or you can cross Jalori Pass, reach Tirthan Valley, rest for the night and then trek to the lake on Day 2. This also means that you will have to climb up the pass from the other side once again the next day. If you were going to do that, then it will recommend that you stay in Shoja itself. It is the first town that you reach once you descend from Jalori into Tirthan Valley.

Reach Jalori Pass from Mandi, if you want to reach Jalori Pass via Mandi, then the journey will be exactly the other way around and route as mentioned below.

Chandigarh to Swarghat to Bilaspur to Sundernagar to Mandi to Larji to Banjar to Jibhi to Ghiyagi to Shoja to Jalori Pass

Traveling in this manner, the total distance around 285 km and this too will be a 2 days journey. The only difference is that your second day will be spent entirely in sightseeing in Tirthan Valley; and visiting Jalori Pass. This is, in fact, a great way to travel if you had Sirolsar Lake in your itinerary and you were short on time.
Starting from Chandigarh city, take the bypass that will have you exit on Chandigarh Manali highway. You will then start climbing up the hills and will arrive at Mandi traveling via Bilaspur and Sundernagar. After Mandi, continue driving another 38 kilometers towards Manali. Just before Aut Tunnel, there is a road that goes towards the small town of Larji that you will have to turn on. You must not enter the tunnel and take the exit towards your right. Stop for a minute and ask the locals if you weren’t able to locate it.
Once you reach Tirthan Valley, you can stay at Gushaini, Banjar, Jibhi or Shoja. It will recommend that you break the journey in Banjar or Gushaini. Next day, make a day trip to the top of Jalori Pass; trek the lake and return to your hotel by evening.

Jalori Pass Weather

Due to its high altitude, the weather at Jalori Pass is always very cold. The wind speed at this altitude is always high and you will start to feel the chill within a minute of stepping out of your vehicle. But as you start to descend towards either Shoja or Anni, it will start to feel more of a pleasant cold rather than the unbearable type.
Weather in this region remains pleasant between April to June and then in the months of September and October. November till March are the months of extreme cold when the entire valley remains buried under a light sheet of snow. Monsoon arrives in July and lasts throughout August. It rains around here quite a lot and sometimes enough to trigger landslides. The road at Jalori Pass is a badly broken dirt trail which turns into a slushy nightmare after it starts to rain.

Best time to visit Jalori Pass

As winter and monsoon can spoil your trip or restrict to reach Jalori pass but more specifically as below –
Jalori Pass in January to March, you cannot cross Jalori Pass in this season; but you can travel to Tirthan Valley from Mandi side and enjoy some snow there or you can only drive till Anni from Shimla side; and Ghiyagi from Banjar side (or Shoja if snow was less). Jalori Pass will access officially from end of March (generally declared open).
April, great time to visit. Jalori Pass will be open; and weather will be pleasantly cold.
May, Another good time to visit with slightly warmer days and roads all open.
June, Same situation as of May with even warmer temperatures. It is a great month for trekking and camping trip.
July, not a good time to visit with Monsoon in full swing. A lot of slush on the road making it tough to cross. It can rain anytime anywhere.
August, worst month to plan a trip because of the monsoon season. Landslides in this area are common. Scenery and vistas at this time, however, will be at their best.
September, another best month to visit this Pass. Monsoon will be gone but it will still be lush green valleys all around. September has all that monsoon can offer but without the risk of the rain.
October, again a good month to visit but with very cold weather. It is a great time if you want to see the golden orange in the trees that the autumn season brings.
November, this is not a good time to visit. Weather will be very cold, the scenery will be dry and dull; and there won’t even be any snow around.
December, Jalori Pass gets closed in December and cannot be visited.

Jalori Pass Road Condition

The condition of the road about 5 km on both side of Jalori Pass is really bad. There is no Tar anywhere and it is a dirt road all the way. On top of that, it is also bad and broken. If it rained, the entire stretch will turn into a nightmare for sure with all the slush. To make things worse, the climb is also very steep.
The road, however, is good for rest of the way while traveling towards Jalori from either Shimla or Mandi. It is only around Jalori top that the condition worsens.

Best Vehicle for Jalori Pass
It will entirely depend on your driving skills actually. Because locals are drive around in a Maruti Alto without any difficulty. Just make sure that your vehicle is in good condition and the person in the driver seat knows how to maneuver a car on steep climbs and sharp turns. If you can get an SUV, it would be the best vehicle but may give a little trouble on narrow roads.

Snow at Jalori Pass
Jalori Pass is one of the spot to enjoy the snow in Kalpa Kinnaur tour. It snows at Jalori from late December to February but not too much. If visiting in January, you can drive as far as Ghiyagi or Shoja and then start walking towards the pass. Go as far as you can and you will definitely find snow on the road.

Petrol Pumps / Mechanics
Petrol stations too will remain available at several places on the route. Just full your tank done at Mandi (or at Narkanda or Anni if coming from Shimla side) and it will be sufficient to get you back after driving around in Tirthan. You will also be able to find mechanics at almost all towns in Tirthan Valley but only for minor fixes. For anything major, you will have to bring back your vehicle to Mandi.

Bank / ATMs
There are banks and ATMs in almost all the towns in Tirthan Valley. You will easily be able to withdraw cash in Banjar and Gushaini. Even while driving there via Aut, you will continue to come across Banks and ATMs at regular intervals.

Hospital / Medical Assistance
There are hospitals available in Mandi, Aut, Banjar and Gushaini as well. To be on a safer side though, carry some basic medicines like for flu, fever, stomach ache etc.

How To Reach to visit Kalpa Kinnaur

By Train, the nearest broad gauge head is at Kalka – a four- to seven-hour journey from Delhi. After that, take the mountain train from Kalka to Shimla, it takes time around four hours. This railway track has recently been granted the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The view is stunning, with the line passing through an amazing 103 tunnels. Then you have to explore Kalpa Kinnaur tour by road only from Shimla.

By Road, it takes only 2 hours from Kalka to Shimla and takes 6 hours from Delhi to Shimla by car. Govt. & Pvt. bus services are also available from both Chandigarh & Delhi to Shimla. Then you have to explore Kalpa-Kinnaur by road only from Shimla.

If you are hiring a private car, ensure that the driver has experience driving in hilly regions and is not deprived of sleep.

By Air, The nearest airport is at Chandigarh, it’s about tthree hours away from Shimla. Then you have to explore Kalpa-Kinnaur by road only from Shimla.

Best Time To Visit Kalpa Kinnaur or Kinnaur Valley

In general, the roads to Kinnaur Valley remain open whole the year, barring few days of heavy snowfall on Hindustan Tibet Highway, especially near Narkanda. No a single high mountain pass is there on the way to Hindustan Tibet Road, so tourist never find much issuses about closing the road, even in winters . However, if you are planning for Kalpa Kinnaur tour, then certain factors you should keep in mind depending on the month.

Kalpa Kinnaur Valley in March & April, is the time, when the snow starts to melts and flowers in apple orchards bloom in the spring season. This is the perfect time to see snow capped peaks of the Kinnaur region and enjoy the colors of the beautiful landscapes of the Himalayas.
The road to Chitkul also opens by the second week of March, and the Baspa river emits some beautiful colors of water too. You can even hike around to get to the snow and play with it, especially in March. Regarding Kinnaur Valley weather in the spring season, the nights and early mornings are a bit cold and the rest of the day is cool to warm. There is not that much of tourists in Kinnaur Valley before May. So months of March and April are a very good time to travel Kinnaur Valley.
But during this season, the main problem is that as the snow starts melting, the road block are very natural due to snow slides and landslides. Also, the roads are in not so good condition. You should also expect slush on roads and occasional rainfall/snowfall too.

Kalpa Kinnaur in May to July, The months of May and June along with the middle of July are the peak season to visit Kinnaur Valley and Spiti Valley. The road from Manali to Spiti Valley also opens by that time, so a lot of people come down as well from that route.
Mostly all the link roads to various sightseeing places or remote villages in Spiti Valley as well as Kinnaur Valley are open during this period and hence, you can plan your visit without missing any places of sightseeing in Kinnaur.
In June, you may face good pre-monsoon showers in Kinnaur Valley and not to forget the tragic flash floods in Kinnaur district (June’13). So, the weather in kalpa Kinnaur and other parts of the Himalayan Destination is somehow becoming unpredictable nowadays. Hence, recommended that you always check the weather updates before embarking on the journey. But leaving all arguments, this period is considered as one of the better times to travel to Kinnaur Valley.
If you are traveling further to Spiti Valley then suggest you follow the golden rules of “Leave Early, Sleep Early” very strictly to avoid heavy water flow in water crossings during this period.

Kalpa Kinnaur in Monsoon or August, is the time when the monsoon is in full flurry in Kinnaur Valley and lower Himachal region apart from other parts of Northern India. In this period, roads are almost in a bad state as compared to the rest of the year in Kinnaur Valley. If you are traveling to Spiti Valley, keep in mind that Spiti Valley falls under the Trans Himalayan Region which is generally rain shadowed. However, weather prediction is not possible in Himalayan region and also Spiti Valley facing many natural incident in recent past.
So please avoid planning your tour in this time, as much as possible. If still, you want to embark on the journey to Kinnaur Valley in monsoon time then you should have enough buffer days in hand to face intermittent delays or even cancellation of the trip.
Around August, even Apple season starts too in lower Himachal and Kinnaur. So, crop transportation creates some messy traffic jams owing to a high number of trucks that ply on the Hindustan Tibet route to transport the apple crop but it is not a major issue.

Kinnaur in September to November, as the monsoon season goes away, the road starts to get better. Autumn or pre-winters is the time which is one of the favorite time to visit Kinnaur Valley. Especially late September or early October, when the fall or autumn season is at its peak, you will enjoy the road trip to Kinnaur at its fullest.of your Kalpa Kinnaur tour package.
The colors of the valley are surreal and blooming with orange leaves on the trees, enhancing the beauty of magnificent backdrops by many levels. The aqua colors of water in the river add jewels to the pristine beauty of Kinnaur Valley. The temperatures become warm in the day time with cool to cold nights. So, carrying woolens clothes and light jackets is highly recommended.
If you are going further to Spiti valley, then you can also get your hands on super delicious Spiti Apples around Tabo or Hurling and even in Kaza at the house of locals. Do not miss to taste them or buy them. The roads are in the best conditions as compared to the rest of the season with minimal roadblocks. However, if you are a snow lover, then this is not the time for you as most of the snow melts away from the peaks by this time of the year.

Kinnaur in December to February, is when winter starts to set into Kinnaur Valley. The road to Chitkul closes down till middle of March due to heavy snowfall and even at times, the road to Sangla gets closed for a prolonged period. But Kalpa Kinnaur is the best place to enjoy winter in Kinnaur Valley. If you plan to visit higher Kinnaur Valley like Nako, Hangrang, and further, then you need to cross the hardships of ice on the roads while traveling, lack of electricity, extreme winter conditions with sub-zero temperatures. Also, only basic facilities and food will be available in most places in Kinnaur. Sometimes you need to use boiling water in hotels as even pipes tend to freeze, so running water in the toilet becomes difficult to get.
If you need modest adventure, have some buffer days in hand and loves to enjoy snow or snowfall in abundance then Kinnaur Valley is a less risky option than more harsh & unforgiving Spiti Valley in winters.

FAQ (Kalpa Kinnaur Tour program)

It will suggested that if you love a mix of some snow, colors and blooming flowers, then go for the spring season, March & April. Otherwise, visit Kinnaur Valley in summer if you want to beat the heat of plains and camp beside the river away from the mad rush of tourists. And, if you love vivid colors and apples in apple orchards, go for late monsoon or autumn months. Finally, if you love tons of snow and want to make snowmen then visit Kinnaur Valley in winters.

Is April the right time to visit Kinnaur Valley?
March & April or spring season, is one of the best times to visit Kinnaur Valley because the weather is pleasant, flowers are in the valley, and there is such a mix of snow in the backdrops and beautiful vistas.

Which is the best month to visit Kinnaur Kalpa-Sangla region?
March & April and September & October months are one of the best months to travel to places like Kalpa Kinnaur, Sangla Valley or Chitkul Valley. In the spring time, you will see beautiful flowers and snow in the valley while in the autumn season, you will find the best of road conditions and beautiful colors.

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Nako

Nako is the small village at an elevation of 3,662 m & built around the Nako Lake, in the Pooh sub-division of Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh with the backdrop of Reo Purgyal which has an elevation of 6,816 m and is the highest mountain in Himachal Pradesh. It is 103km away from Reckong Peo. Although a part of Kinnaur, it is located in the border of Spiti, and displays similar landscapes of the cold desert. It is a small village but has a rich history and many stories related to Padmasambhava. The village is now on a more stable location near the Nako Lake (formed by the slopes of the mountains of Reo Purgyal), compared to the opposite bank across the Nako river where it was located earlier and then shifted because of tectonic upliftment of the site. Nako Monastery in the upper part of the Nako village and the Nako Lake are important landmarks in the village. The monastery dated to the 11th century (1025 AD), oriented towards Tibet, similar in style to the Tabo Monastery consists of four large halls of which the oldest and largest is known as Dukhong. It is also known as ‘Lotsava Jhakang’ meaning “Complex of the Translator” named so in honour of Rinchen Zangpo who translated Buddhist scriptures from Sanskrit to the Tibetan language. Apples and Sun dried apricots are the agricultural produce from the village.

Giu Village

Giu Village, is called The Mummy of Spiti Valley. Giu is a remote village deep in Spiti Valley, which has achieved its fame thanks to a naturally preserved dead body. A small village, with only about 50-60 households, Giu is situated at an elevation of 10,000 ft. Tourists often ignore Giu when planning a trip to the Kinnaur / Spiti region, and most people come close to the region. Giu has some stunning views keeping in line with the region! Even though the area is challenging to reach, the Giu Mummy has started attracting tourism for the tiny village. It is a good stop-over when in the region and looking for something different and unique to experience.
The Mummy is a tiny and fragile body, which is sitting and a little hunched. The body seems to have shrunk through the generations in a manner that looks like dehydration. With a chocolate brown color, covered in traditional yellow and white monk clothes, inside a glass casing, it seems the body has lived many a life cycle since the time it was alive.

Tabo

Tabo, village is situated at an altitude of 3,280 m. Tabo is a small town in the Lahaul and Spiti district on the banks of the Spiti river in Himachal Pradesh, India. The town lies on the road between Recong Peo and Kaza, the sub-divisional headquarters of Spiti. The town surrounded by snow capped peaks of the Trans Himalayas. The town is known for the Buddhist monastery which, according to legend, is said to be over a thousand years old. The Tabo Monastery or Tabo Gompa was founded back to 996 A.D. It the oldest continually operative Buddhist institution in India. The Dalai Lama has expressed his desire to retire to Tabo, since he maintains that the Tabo Monastery is one of the holiest. In 1996, the Dalai Lama conducted the Kalachakra initiation ceremony in Tabo, which coincided with the millennium anniversary celebrations of the Tabo monastery. The ceremony was attended by thousands of Buddhists from across the world. Tabo Monastery’s spiritual head is Tsenshap Serkong Rinpoche. Climb the mountain face and explore the Tabo caves. These ancient caves were used by Buddhist monks for dwelling and till date, some of them are still used for meditation. Tabo caves used by monks are marked by flags and are prohibited to enter.
Climate in Tabo is very unpredictable as it ranges from cloudy to sunny and from snow to heavy snowfall. Summers are short from May to August and winters are longer from mid-September to April. Winter temperatures in Tabo can range from −15 °C (5 °F) in the day to −45 °C (−49 °F) overnight. In summers, temperature ranges from 20 °C (68 °F) in daytime to −5 °C (23 °F) at night.

Mud Village

Mud Village, is a part of a cluster of 17 villages of Pin Valley, housing around 200 people in its 30 homes. Some Bollywood film has been shooted here, Paap is one of them. A striking feature of the village is how lush green it is, probably because the Pin river flows right beside the village. The river nourishes this land and enables its soil to harbor healthy crops. Mud village gained popularity among travelers for being a trekking base to Pin Parvati Pass, trek to Bhabha Pass and of course, the entrance to Pin Valley National park.
At an altitude of about 3600 meters, Mud is the last inhabited village of Pin valley, located 50 km away from Kaza. People travel to Pin Valley from Tabo and then Mud Village to Kaza after sleeping for a night. The distance from Tabo to Mud Village is 65 km, and generally, tourists visit Dhankar Monastery and Dhangkar Lake before staying overnight at Mud village in Pin Valley.

Pin Valley National Park

Pin Valley National Park, is a National park of India located within the Lahaul and Spiti district, in the state of Himachal Pradesh, in far Northern India. The park is located in the desert habitat of the Spiti Valley, within the Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve, in the Himalayas region.
The Pin Valley National Park established in the year of 1987. Total area of the park is about 1150 Km2 (Core Area – 675 Km2). Spreading south of Dhankar Monastery near the Tibetan border, the park marks the border between the formerly separate districts of Lahaul and Spiti. The elevation of the park ranges from about 3,500 m near Ka Dogri to more than 6,000 m at its highest point. Because of the park’s high altitude and extreme temperatures, the vegetation density is sparse, consisting mostly of alpine trees and groves of Himalayan cedar. In summer, rare birds such as the Himalayan Snow Cock, Chukar Partridge, Snow Partridge and Snowfinch flourish in the park. It is famous for Snow Leopard. The region is a cold desert, which is adjoined to the Great Himalayan National Park in the southwest and Rupi Bhabha Sanctuary in the south. Visitors not only enjoy the unique fauna and flora of the national park, but they also love to roam around the region. The nearby areas are equally beautiful. They are dominated by the influence of Tibetan culture.
National park is an area which is strictly reserved for the betterment of the wildlife & biodiversity, and where activities like developmental, forestry, poaching, hunting and grazing on cultivation are not permitted. Their boundaries are well marked and circumscribed.

Dhankar Monastery

Dhankar Monastery, is a village and also a Monastery, a Buddhist temple in the district of Lahaul and Spiti in India. It is situated at an elevation of 3,894 m in the Spiti Valley above Dhankar Village, between the towns of Kaza and Tabo. A serpentine road now takes you to the base of the monastery and with a flight of few steps you will find yourself standing in an ancient space where monks have prayed for centuries—uninterrupted. Dhankar Monastery was a part of a fort, in fact the word Dhankar itself means fort in local language. Monasteries in Spiti impress you with their unique location—almost hanging on the tip of a peak and overlooking beautiful valleys. The complex is built on a 1000-foot (300-metre) high spur overlooking the confluence of the Spiti and Pin Rivers – one of the world’s most spectacular settings for a gompa. Dhang or dang means cliff, and kar or khar means fort. Hence Dhangkar means fort on a cliff. Dhankar, like Key Monastery and Tangyud Monastery in Spiti, and Thiksey in Leh, Likir in Ladakh and Rangdum monasteries in Zanskar, was built as a fort monastery on the Central Tibetan pattern.

Komic

Komic, literally meaning ‘eye of a snow cock’ (Ko means snow cock, Mic means eye), is a remote village in Spiti valley. Having its fame as the Highest village in the world connected with a motorable road, Komic is quite a destination for most people traveling to Spiti. Komic village is situated at an elevation of 15027ft above sea level. There are many important and noteworthy spots near the village, including Langza village (Fossil Village of India) and Hikkim village (highest village with a post office).
Set handsomely within the splendid peaks of Himachal Pradesh, the beauty of this place cannot be described in words; you need to feel it. Bounded by snow capped mountains and majestic valleys, Komic Village attracts countless tourists who want to experience firsthand the stunning beauty and the beautiful culture. All you need to do is come and explore the delightful vistas of this scenic valley.
The monastery houses the ‘Maitreya Buddha’ (Future Buddha). People believe that the Maitreya Buddha looks after the well-being of the Villagers. The 14th-century monastery has a fortified castle made of slanted mud walls, taking you back to the yester years through the beautiful murals, scriptures, and arts. The monastery has an amazingly unique look, as it is situated on the edge of a canyon. It almost looks like a fortified castle. Being situated on the periphery of the Kibber wildlife sanctuary, the views are stunning, and you might even be able to spot a Himalayan red fox! Inside the monastery, you’ll spot a stuffed leopard.

Langza

Langza, is a high altitude village situated on the way to Komic from Kaza. It is also known as the Fossil Village. This village has many stories to tell and has preserved them with all its might.
Thanks to the many fossils carefully kept from over the many years, it can invoke great senses in the curious souls. Also, a striking feature of the village The Chau Chau Kang Nilda Peak adorns its landscape majestically.

Hikkim village

Hikkim village, is situated at an altitude of 14,400 ft. A local signboard will inform you that it holds the title of the Highest village with a post office. Of course, this has managed to grab the attention of every traveler coming to Spiti valley.
Hikkim is situated at a distance of around 4 Kms from Komic. Most importantly, if you are in Komic and need medical supplies, the nearest medical shop in Hikkim village. Hikkim is situated at a distance of 16 km from Kaza, 45 minutes of the uphill drive with dizzying roads. You can approach it while going to Komic and Langza villages from Kaza.
Being a sky lover, this has been my favorite activity whenever I am in Spiti. Night sky at Spiti is magical, with millions of stars looking down upon you, the milky way seems like an arm’s length away, and the moon is a giant white-spotted ball – all of this silhouetted against the trans-Himalayan mountains.
At night Spiti becomes a mysterious land, totally gripping you in its charm. Same goes for Hikkim, try your hand at Astro-photography or night photography, if you are into it. Spiti is one of the best places in the word to do that. Or simply gaze at the alluring night-sky and make twinkling memories of a lifetime.

Kaza

Kaza, is the sub-divisional headquarters of the remote Spiti Valley in the western Himalayas in the Lahaul and Spiti district of the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The beautiful town of Kaza is located at an altitude of about 12,500 ft., on the left bank of the Spiti River in the majestic Lahaul and Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh. Kaza is surrounded by high mountains, crystal clear river & streams, and barren landscapes interspersed with green landscapes and meadows. It is a marvelous destination, which houses several beautiful palaces, monasteries, gompas, and other historical buildings. Kaza is the largest township and commercial center of the Spiti valley.

Key Monastery

Key Monastery, is a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located on top of a hill at an altitude of 13,668 ft above sea level, close to the Spiti River, in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh. Also known as Key Gompa, it is biggest centre of Buddhist learning in Spiti Valley and the oldest training centre for Lamas. It is home of around 300 lamas who receive their religious education here. The place is considered to be one of the most important and oldest research and debate centre for Buddhists of Spiti Valley.

Kibber

Kibber, is a village high in the Spiti Valley in the Himalayas at 14,200 ft in Himachal Pradesh in northern India. Kibber has the distinction of being the highest motorable village in the world. The village is known for its scenic mountains, barren splendor and monasteries. The landscape of Kibber and the entire Spiti Valley resembles that of Ladakh and Tibet. The culture also is similar to that of Tibet and Tibetan Buddhism is the predominant religion. No wonder then that Spiti is also known as Little Tibet. Kibber Village comprising 80 houses. It contains also the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary. Kibber lies in a narrow valley on the summit of a limestone rock. It is located 20 km from Kaza. Agriculture forms the backbone of the local economy and lush green fields are abundant. The Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1992, which spans over an area of 2,220.12 sq-km of land. The elevation range of this sanctuary is 3,600-6,700 m above sea level. In Kibber you can found Snow Leopard and Kibber is called The Land of Snow Leopard.

Demul

Demul, is high altitude village situated at an altitude of 14,170 feet at a Trans-Himalayan valley in the Spiti region. Demul is around 32 kilometers eastward from the town of Kaza. Demul is a village with a little over fifty houses, which is big enough by Spiti standards. It personifies solitude, simplicity, and remoteness in this middle land of Spiti. Driving from Kaza to Demul, it will take one hr drive to reach this beautiful hamlet of Spiti Valley. An uphill offshoot of the main road along the Spiti river, just before Lidang village will take you to Demul. Demul is connected to all of the high villages of Spiti Valley. Some travelers choose to trek to Demul from Koumic or Hikkim as well on their home stays trek of these high villages.

Balari Top

Balari Top, is a hilltop point at the elevation of 16,000 feet, which presents an amazing bird’s eye view of Spiti valley. Balari top is the only place from where you can see 18 no of villages spread across the Spiti valley, three meandering rivers (Spiti, Lingti, and Pin), Dhangkar monastery, wind-sculpted rocks and a landscape which is the signature of Spiti. The famous Chao Chao Kang Nilda and Kanamo peaks are also visible from this gem of a point near Demul.
Balari top is three hours of a hike away from Demul village with a gentle gradient but the elevation can be arduous. Hence, it is important to understand the basics of high altitude trekking in the Himalayas.

Losar

Losar, is peaceful, soothing, and absolutely delightful village in Spiti Valley is located at an altitude of 4,085 meters above sea level. Your visit to Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh is incomplete if you have not visited this heaven like place, situated near the confluence of Losar and Peeno streams. It is located in the extreme end of the Spiti Valley, which is much similar to Ladakh in appearance. There are magnificent mountains, stunning rivers, and breathtaking vistas in Losar that can spellbind any tourist with its unparalleled beauty.
There are a few hotels and home stay options in the valley, having come of late that offer comfortable stay to the guests. The distance between Losar and Kaza is only 56 km and therefore, tourists can visit the main town of Spiti Valley ‘Kaza’ in just a few hours from Losar.

Kunzum Pass

Kunzum Pass, situated at an elevation of 15,060 ft, is a high mountain pass on the eastern Kunzum Range of the Himalayas some 128 km from Manali. It is one of India’s highest motorable mountain pass on the route to Kaza the sub-divisional headquarters of Spiti. It’s the highest point in the Spiti Valley Road. The road over the pass is not a road. Just a dirt track leading upto the top of the hill. The surface on this gravel road is often loose, especially along the sides of the road. The drive is definitely worth it. The top of the pass offers spectacular views of Bara-Sigri glacier, the second longest glacier in the world. Also visible from the top of the pass are the Chandra-Bhaga Mountain and Spiti Valley. Besides the panoramic view of the region, Kunzum Pass has got a temple of Goddess Durga at its top most point. Avalanches and heavy snowfalls can sometimes block some sections of the road and can be extremely dangerous due to frequent patches of ice. It connects the Kullu Valley and Lahaul Valley with the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is the only motorable route connecting Lahaul Valley on the western side of the pass with Spiti Valley on the eastern side. There is also a 15 km trek to the Moon Lake or Chandratal from the Kunzum Pass. It consists of 15 sharp hairpin turns, testing driving skills of even experienced drivers. The drivers, travelers and passer by seeks blessings of Kunzum Mata before undertaking the dangerous journey.

Chandra Tal lake

Chandra Tal lake, is also called the Moon Lake, is situated on the Samudra Tapu plateau, a crescent-shaped basin, surrounded by the gigantic Himalayan Mountains on all the sides, which overlooks the Chandra River. The name of the lake originates from its crescent shape. It is situated at an altitude of about 14,100 ft in the Himalayas. Mountains of screed overlook the lake on one side, and a cirque encloses it on the other in Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh. Chandra Tal is a tourist destination for trekkers and campers. Earlier, the lake was the resting point for the traders and voyagers who used to come from Tibet or Ladakh. One will get awestruck when they will see that the color of the lake keeps on changing with the color of the sky. The shimmering lake is flanked by the green-carpeted Chandra Baga mountain range. The lake is accessible on foot from Batal as well as from Kunzum Pass from late May to early October. There is also a motor road accessible as far as a parking lot around 2 km from the lake. The route from Kunzum Pass was accessible only on foot before, but now motorcycles and 4×4 cars do travel this distance where you take a right cut from a T-point, the road to left leads to Bataal. It takes approx 2 hours from Kunzum Pass to Chandra Taal. Chandra Taal is also accessible from Suraj Tal, 30 km away situated near Baralach La Pass or Baralacha La in Lahaul district situated Leh-Manali highway.

Khokhsar

Khokhsar, at an altitude of 10302 ft. Just a few km before Gramphu, you will reach Khoksar which is the first settlement in the Lahaul Valley of Himachal Pradesh. This place has several Dhabas where you can enjoy the food, a clean washroom or toilet to fresh-up yourself. There are few houses as well in this small village. You can found few options of night stay in hotel as well as guest house / home stay. The Chandra river flows through this place, and the surrounding views are just amazing from the village. It is a major eating point on Manali Leh Highway (especially when you going to Ladakh from Manali).

Gramphu

Gramphu, at an altitude of 10499 ft. After you crossed the northern area of Rohtang Pass, you reach a place called Gramphu. At Gramphu, there is a diversion towards the right which will lead you to Spiti Valley via Kunzum Pass. If you want to visit Chandratal then you need to take the diversion towards Spiti and once you reach Batal, go straight towards Chandratal. There are no stay options at Gramphu, but you will find a couple of tea stall / dhabas there.

Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass, at an altitude of 13058 ft. Distance to Manali from here around 51 km. Rohtang Pass connects the tribal valleys of Lahaul and Spiti to Kullu Valley. This is the hottest Himalayan tourist spot in Northern India and people flood this place in the month of May and June. Though there has been some respite since the introduction of Rohtang Pass permit.

Do expect heavy tourist rush and traffic jam, if you are late in leaving from Manali in the early season (If you start you Ladakh trip from Manali).

Rohtang Pass remains closed for more than six months in the winter months due to heavy snowfall and thus closing the Manali Leh Highway. No permit can be issued on every Tuesday for crossing Rohtang Pass (if anyone start there journey to Ladakh from Manali).

Many people feel the altitude factor after reaching Rohtang Pass with headaches and feeling to puke. So, it better to keep yourself hydrated on the way. There is no place to stay or eat at Rohtang Pass.

Rohtang Pass is the last of the five major mountain passes from Leh – Manali Highway.

Rani Nala

Rani Nala, is few km ahead of Rohtang Pass, which is a glacier point. This place is famous for its huge snow walls, more than 20 feet high. You can find snow here almost 8 out of 12 months. The feeling of going between these huge walls of snow is impeccable, especially in the early season. You can face traffic jam in this area in the early season due to the narrow passage and kill your time. You need to leave as early as possible like 5 am from Manali to avoid the traffic jam on Manali – Rohtang Pass road (If you start Ladakh Journey from Manali).

It is perhaps the last major point on the southern portal of Rohtang Pass. No stay options are available at Rani Nalla.

Marhi

Marhi, at an altitude of 10827 ft. After Rani Nala, you reach Marhi which is the highest snow point in winters when the road to Rohtang Pass is closed. There are few Dhabas on Marhi by HPTDC but there are no stay options. Marhi is a common stoppage point for people doing cycling on Manali Leh Highway. Cyclists put up their own camps to spend the night at Marhi and get acclimatized for the ride ahead.

Gulaba, is famous as one of the lower winter snow point when the road to Rohtang Pass gets closed. There are only a few Dhabas on Gulaba and no options to stay. Running through few small villages (Kothi, Palchan etc.) of this beautiful lush green valley you reach to Manali from Gulaba, around 20 km.

Nehru Kund

Nehru Kund, is located at the distance of around 6 km from Manali. It is one of the natural springs of natural water in India. Nehru Kund is named after the late Prime Minister Jawar Lal Nehru. Nehru used to drink water from this Kund, while his journey to Manali. Nehru Kund is on the Manali-Keylong road, about 6 kms from Manali.

Manali

Manali, at the northern end of the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh, is a hill station situated at a height of 2050m (6398 ft) in the Himalayas, is one of the most popular, beautiful and awe-inspiring hill stations in this country. Surrounded by majestic hills and woody forests, the quaint charm of Manali has captured the world’s attention and has become one of the most visited tourist destinations in India.
Situated on the Beas river (Vyaas in Hindi) and near its source, it is a popular tourist spot for Indians in summer and a magical, snow-covered place in winter. The pristine River Beas flows right through the town, creating a mesmerizing and spellbinding landscape. Nestled at one end of the Kullu Valley, Manali is a popular hill station with attractions such as the Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley nearby. Rohtang Pass is covered with snow throughout the year and is a good experience in itself. This is the ideal place for tourists looking to unwind and rejuvenate in the lap of nature, for there is no place in the country more vibrant and charming as Manali.
This town also has a multitude of options for tourists looking for adventurous activities like trekking, paragliding, skiing, zorbing, white water rafting etc. Besides adventurous activities, Manali also has a lot of temples which all tourists and devotees love to visit including the Raghunath Temple and Jagannath Dev Temple being one of the important ones. Hadimba Temple, a 14th-century temple is famous for its wooden architecture and for its religious values. Manali is also used as the base town for the Manali-Leh highway and Leh is around 479 km from here. Lahaul and Spiti district can also be accessed from here during the summers using the same highway.

Things to remember for travel Spiti Valley

Phone Signals at Spiti Valley

Mostly BSNL Connection does work on major places. But most of the time when you traveled through the remote areas network might not available.

Petrol Pumps at Spiti Valley

It is not easy to find fuel or petrol on Spiti Valley. Do not forget to full your car tank from Shimla / Narkanda / Rampur / Recong Peo / Kaza. When you travel from Shimla last petrol pump at Recong Peo and next also only at Kaza. But when you travel from Manali don’t forget to full from Manali as after Manali only petrol pump at Spiti at Kaza.

ATMs on Spiti Valley

Apart from Shimla or Manali there might have ATM in Rampur, Sarahan, Sangla, Reckong Peo and Kaza in Kinnaur and Spiti Valley. But it is advisable to carry enough cash along with you because most of the time the on route ATM have run out of money or become un-operational at any day or any time.

Medical Facilities on Spiti Valley

Medical Facilities in Spiti are basic, although there is a well equipped hospital in Kaza there are only a few primary healthcare centers outside of the district headquarters. Traditional medicinal practitioners known as Amchi are present in every part of the valley and can provide preventative herbal remedies for most afflictions.

Preferred Vehicles for Srinagar-Leh Highway

The road is just a relative term here and for most part of the journey, you will be driving around on a complete nightmare. Mud, slush, dirt trail, water crossings, boulder and big stones on the road, shooting stones, narrow steep climbs. Car ground clearance will play the most important part while driving through Spiti. You cannot risk the underbelly of your car hitting the ground every time you get across a water stream, or your car getting stuck as you try to take it through a rivulet, mud or slush. Driving through lose gravel will mean stones flying and hitting the belly of your car. Any SUV will probably be the best car for Spiti Valley. It doesn’t matter if it is a 2 wheel drive or 4×4 but the good ground clearance an SUV offers will be of great help while traveling through Spiti.

Best Time to travel to explore Spiti Valley / Mini Ladakh

Spiti valley is accessible from Shimla side throughout the year however from Manali; it is accessible only for 5 months, from June till September. So if you are planning from Shimla, from June till September, you can complete the circuit by exiting from Manali. However from late October till early May; you can only drive up to Kaza from Shimla and will have to return the same way. There is no high altitude pass between Shimla and Kaza however when it comes to Manali; you will cross two high altitude passes, Rohtang and Kunzum Pass. Both these passes remain close from anytime in October till May (depending on the weather and road conditions) so a journey from Manali to Spiti valley can only be done from June till September.
Please note that even though you can travel to Spiti from Shimla throughout the year, in peak winter the entire valley remains under a thick sheet of snow so a road journey will not be only difficult but also very challenging.
So, the best time to visit Spiti valley depends on what your preference is. If it is snow you are after, then the best time would be to go sometime in February or March otherwise July till September would be an ideal time to visit Lahaul & Spiti. More specifically as below –

• January, Not a good time to go at all. Winter is at its full swing and there is heavy snow all around, starting right from near Shimla until Kaza. Chances of catching a live snowfall, roads being closed and getting stranded somewhere are highest during this time. The road from Manali to Kaza remains closed at this time so the only way to get into the valley is to travel from Shimla however the road goes through some regions that experience heavy snowfall due to which it is best to avoid traveling at this time. There is not much of accommodation options available too in January. Please do keep in mind that life in Spiti Valley in winter is really not that easy. Water freezes everywhere including in pipes and taps; which means there will be no running water and you will have to depend on water in buckets.
• February & March, If you want to see snow blanket, then the best time would be to go from mid Feb till March. There will be huge snow near Shimla, Narkanda, Kufri, Sarahan, Nako and Kaza at this time. Please do carefully plan your accommodation though because this is not really the tourist season and most of the hotels at this time remain closed. Please do keep in mind that life in Spiti Valley in winter is really not that easy. Water freezes everywhere including in pipes and taps; which means there will be no running water and you will have to depend on water in buckets.
• April & May, Snow starts to melt in this time. Hotels and guest houses too start to open up by this time however tourists are still few in numbers. If it is solitude you seek with not a lot of people around, then this is the best time to go. Chances of catching snow will be very less however the weather will still be extremely cold. Accommodation will still be limited and you will not be able to complete the circuit as well. You can hope to find whatever is left of the snow in the months of April and May but it is also the time when roads are in worst condition.
• June till September, The complete Spiti circuit will open only at this time. You can start your journey from Shimla and end at Manali or vice versa. While Spiti does not experience much rain, almost next to none for that matter; roads leading to the valley can still close due to landslides in monsoon. Kunzum pass opens in late June and it takes some time for BRO and PWD to improve the road conditions from Khoksar till Kaza. The entire patch from Khoksar to Kunzum, especially till Batal is a nightmare to drive on.
  Landslides often occur in this region and you may have to wait for a few hours for the road to reopen and turn back and return the next day. Road from Shimla however does not have that large of a risk of closing down, even though it is equally bad. But even after all this, you can still comfortably complete the journey and enjoy the valley.
  Chandratal is open during this time so you can add that too to your itinerary. Hotels are all fully functional so finding accommodation will not an issue. If travelling in June or early July, your trip will pretty much be event-less. However, monsoon would have arrived around Shimla and Kinnaur Valley by late July bringing in chances of landslides along with it. Best to keep a couple of buffer days while planning your itinerary in July or August. By September, monsoon would have gone and the valley would be colorful all around which makes it an ideal time to be travelling here. Temperature however would start to dip by late September or early October; so ensure that you are carrying heavy woolens at this time. During September, Kunzum Pass and Rohtang Pass are remain open so you can complete the circuit as well.
• October till December, gets one sided during this time because Kunzum pass remains closed till June. You can start from Shimla, travel till Kaza and return taking the same road back.. The region starts to receive snowfall sometime in late December so until then; it will just be cold winds that you will experience which makes it a bad time to be travelling to Spiti. Most of the hotels are in the process of closing down in October so choice of accommodation is just a few hotels and guest houses still operational. Please do keep in mind that life in Spiti Valley in winter is really not that easy. Water freezes everywhere including in pipes and taps; which means there will be no running water and you will have to depend on water in buckets.

Best time to visit Spiti Valley by road

From June till September is the best time to explore the hidden Himalayan destination, Spiti Valley by road. This way you will be able to complete the circuit and will not be limited to just visiting from Shimla to Kaza. Places like Chandratal and Kunzum Pass are also accessible during this time only.

Best time to visit Spiti Valley on Bike

The months of April, May, June and September would be best to visit Spiti valley on Bike. From January till March, the weather will be cold with chances of snowfall and black ice on the road which is not really an ideal situation to be riding around on a bike. Some people do make a winter ride to Spiti but not everyone can do that without getting hurt. July and August would bring the season of monsoon with chances of rain, landslides and slush which again is not ideal for a bike ride. From October to December, you can indeed ride to Spiti valley but the weather would then be cold. These three months in my opinion are worst time to be going to Spiti valley. There will not be much greenery anywhere on the route; there will be no snow as well and you will just be riding through cold winds and an overall dull landscape.

Best time to visit Spiti Valley for photography

This will depend on what exactly you like to captured. If a valley covered under a thick sheet of snow is on your mind, then you must go in January or February. For lush green hills, you must visit in August. If the colors of autumn interest you, then plan it by late September or early October.

Best time to visit Spiti Valley on a Budget

If you are on a budget, you must plan your trip between June and September when it is the peak tourist season. All the hotels are operational during this time and you will easily be able to find a budget accommodation. You will also not have any trouble at all finding public transport services during this time.

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT SPITI VALLEY

Over confidence about fitness & do not need acclimatization

AMS does not matter with respect to any age or sex or any fitness level. It can happen to anyone of any age or sex or fitness level. No matter how many trips you under go to Spiti or other high altitude places and how many times you undergo every year, AMS just won’t spare you if you break its basic principles. It cries the death out of you when it strikes and in such remote terrain you know what it is to be in India for survival !! Hence, you need to understand & accept that your body needs time to adapt to high altitude and you should respect that basic natural principle rather than boasting any stupid reasons. So, do consider the principles as suggested by acclimatization schedule and try to follow them to minimize the chances getting hit with AMS which in result will spoil your Spiti trip.

I have crossed many high passes like Rohtang Pass or Nathula

Never be over confident that you are master of driving or riding or you have done Rohtang Pass or Nathula ‘x’ number of times. Even if you are a champ driver in plains with 1000K of driving / riding experience but don’t compare it with Spiti especially via Manali to Kaza road could be one of the strangest and adventurous drive you will ever undertake in life. Never think that any overlying stone will not hit the underbelly, never think that the road ahead is straight as an arrow like runway and you can cruise through it. Such a thinking can get you / your vehicle stranded in the middle of …..
Even the smoothest and straightest of the roads, which look super fine, newly laid tarmac are washed in between or have sudden bumps in them which can badly hurt your vehicle. If you see a big rock lying in between on road especially at sections with loose gravel then it is always you better step out and throw it away to make your way instead of taking any chance and getting your car’s underbelly hurt with it. It’s suggested hire a local and expert driver always with you.

I have done Ladakh trip in my sedan, Spiti Valley will be breeze for me

Well, guys, you may have done Leh – Ladakh trip in your hatchback or sedan. However, the road from Manali to Kaza, especially between Gramphu to Battal or Chandratal, is altogether a different ballgame. The road from Gramphu to Battal is more like driving on a riverbed with multiple water crossings and some like Dorni Nalla, Chota Dhara, Bada Dhara, etc.. which can be very nasty on a given day. There are big rocks beneath them as well which you need to negotiate in these water crossings. Be sure of the car you are taking and experience you have driving in such a terrain otherwise opt for a local taxi.

Considered an unplanned trip

Always keep in mind, “Trouble never comes knocking your door”. It is good to be explore everything & everywhere in travel but with a remote place such as Spiti where even a diarrhea can lead you to death path if not treated in time. It’s suggested that please plan at least basic things before making a trip to Spiti. It’s always better to consult with your travel guide before plan.

Overconfidence about long drive

You may be a great driver or a rider having done 1000s of KMs in a day but keep in mind these are trans-Himalayas and they rule the time and life up there. You may be able to do 400 KMs in Spiti on a last day, which is perfectly fine because you are going to descend to lower hills where your body is used to live. However, things change when you plan something crazy as doing Manali to Kaza / Chandratal / Batal in single day while going to Spiti. Again, it is completely possible but just imagine a very possible situation of running without acclimatization and having a tire puncture just below Kunzum Pass.

Overconfidence about infant baby

It depends on person to person to take the children of such age group. The issue with children is that they tend to exert the body considering it the same kind of place they belong to and this elevates the chances of getting struck with AMS. Secondly, they are not much expressive about their uneasy feelings, so it is parents who need to watch out and take care that the child is not suffering from uneasy feelings, headache or nausea and is behaving properly. With less than 3 year child start your journey descend to lower altitude or stay at the same place to watch things overnight and if symptom increase then start descending immediately. Same is applicable for any adult as well. And yes, do keep the body adequately hydrated.

Drinking alcohol / Taking Tobacco

I know you are a champ when it comes to Patiala pegs, please hold on to them in Spiti or high altitude places. Taking any kind of tobacco, smoking and alcohol or other depressant drugs including, barbiturates, tranquilizers, and sleeping pills etc can decrease the respiratory drive during sleep resulting in a worsening of the AMS symptoms. The alcohol actually dehydrate your body further which does not help a bit in acclimatization.
Taking Tobacco will decrease your lungs capacity. When you travel on high altitude it may harmful for you and then you will going through a helpless conditions.

Remove Shirts at high passes

At the high passes taking photo with a sleeveless or shirt-less makes you deadly, super cool combo for your next profile pic on Facebook may your last picture. Always remember that exposing the bare parts of the body, especially the chest or lower neck, to the cold winds at that high altitude with less acclimatized body also makes a FATAL combo which can lead you to being seriously ill.

Start you trip from Manali side

Starting your journey from Manali side. It will take less time. Even you have rush then also don’t took this route. Wait and confirm your day enough then go to Spiti Valley. Here some Reasons to avoid the Route. You tend to gain very high altitude too quickly by making a trip to Kaza from Manali side. In case, you are doing a full circuit from Manali – Kaza – Kinnaur – Shimla, it is always in best interest of your health to start from Shimla side and end at Manali side after covering both Kinnaur and Spiti Valley. It helps you adjust to the high altitude because of a gradual ascend. If you still interest to take this route rest enough at Manali and gradually increase the altitude.

Sleeping second night at Chandratal Lake directly from Manali

Chandratal lake is located at an altitude of 14000 feet which is termed as very high altitude and no human body can get acclimatized to such an altitude in one night. Sleeping at Manali does not help in acclimatization, so you are pretty much trying to sleep at Chandratal Lake at 14000 feet without any acclimatization at all. Many people get away with it, some get sleepless nights, some with headaches, some in Kaza hospital and some canceling their trips further. So, it is in your best interest to make a night stay at Chandratal lake while coming back to Manali after completing the Spiti Valley trip.

Assuming Lahaul Valley same as Spiti Valley

Lahaul Valley is altogether a different region with different views than what Spiti Valley has to offer. Both Lahaul & Spiti Valley often termed together and most people get confused between them. Technically speaking, Kunzum Pass connects Lahaul Valley with Spiti Valley and by geographically, Spiti Valley is up to Chatru beyond which Lahaul administration starts. Both are tribal circuits but Lahaul Valley can be distinguished by names like Keylong, Udaipur, Trilokinath, Jispa, Baralacha La Pass, Surajtal Lake, Darcha, etc.. Majority of these places falls on Manali – Leh Highway and hence, anyone who has made a trip to Manali – Leh Highway would have experienced them. The scenic beauty perspective is also different between Lahaul and Spiti where Lahaul Valley is more green and living while Spiti Valley is more barren and a cold desert.

Running through Spiti Valley trip with just 4-5 days plan

Well, there are so many places in Spiti Valley that it deserve more than 4-5 days. Hence, it is best to make a trip to Spiti Valley when you have at least 9-12 days to make some sense of it. Otherwise, it is nothing by ticking off a place from your bucket list rather than actually experiencing what Spiti Valley has to offer.

Guest health and fitness requirement

To ensure that all participants get the most out of the tour, it is important that you are fully aware of the level of activity, fitness and medical health required to successfully complete this itinerary. Please read this carefully prior to confirming your place on the tour and, having established the facts, it is your responsibility to contact us with any concerns regarding individual levels of fitness, health, or ability. If you would like to discuss any of these issues further please contact us.
NOTE: Acute mountain sickness can occur to any one at an altitude above 10,000 ft. from the sea level. The most common symptoms of acute mountain sickness are headache disturb sleep loss of appetite, nausea, coughing, irregular breathing, breathlessness, lassitude and lack of concentration. Spiti Valley is situated at an altitude of 11,500 ft. above sea level. It is advisable to take the following precautions, so as to acclimatize your body properly.
• Take complete rest for the first 36 hours of your arrival at Kalpa or Manali. However, this period may vary with different people.
• Your body should get used to the lower oxygen levels.
• In case you feel uneasy or AMS symptoms, please consult a Doctor.
• Tourist undertaking mountaineering and trekking in Spiti Valley, whether in groups or individual, should take some precautions. There is no private aerial rescue agency in Spiti and only as a life saving measure; engaging the Indian Air Force help in evacuation.

Do’s & Don’ts

DO’s
• Always carry drinking water and dry food.
• Take Disprin with you if you want to go to the high passes.
• If you are not able to go further from a particular spot in day, do not move stay there, as road condition is very bad in some places and it would be very difficult to travel in night.
• Temperature in Spiti Valley is too low and if you will throw any biodegradable item, it will remain in the same state for very long time, especially in snow, people defecate and the shit remains in the same for years, so please try the Local winter toilets.
• Use vehicles, which have good-ground clearance and are in good condition. SUVs like Tata Sumo Grande, Toyota Qualis and Highlander, Mitsubishi Pajero work best over there.
• Make a first-aid box and carry proper medicines for headache, fever, and vomiting also in it.
• There is electricity problem in Spiti Valley, so it is better to take extra batteries for digital products like camera, mobiles phones, etc. Charge them fully before leaving for the tour. You may not get electricity at some remote places and also because of the cold, the battery gets discharged soon.
• People there are very friendly and hospitable. Respect them.
• Wear nice clothes covering your body while on roads, especially while visiting a Buddhist Monastery. Respect the culture.

DON’T’s
• Don’t use Polythene bags. Spiti is a “non polythene” zone. Kindly respect this and please carry back all the plastic you take with you.
• Don’t buy a new water bottle. Refill your water bottles, mountain water is good. If you have doubt, boil it and refill.

Please visit and let us give the opportunity to serve you and make your vacation memorable one……..

Green Himachal, Clean Himachal & Plastic Free Himachal

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Gangtok Sightseeing / Place to Visit in Gangtok

MG Road / MG Marg

MG Road / MG Marg is the heart of Gangtok and its most happening place. It is the central shopping hub of this charming state capital with various Shops, Restaurants and Hotels lined up along both sides. MG Road is an open Mall or Boulevard Square which is widely regarded to be the town center and is the best shopping destination for tourists. This is a great place to take a stroll or just sit on the benches and enjoy the dreamy ambiance.

The first thing one notices, the cleanliness of the roads around the city and the the boards hanging everywhere with the message i.e.”Welcome to M.G. Marg, Spit, and Litter Free Zone“. The entire area is free from smoke, litter, and vehicular traffic. It’s a pedestrian-only zone, and no vehicles are allowed. The buildings on both sides of MG Road in Gangtok are painted by green in line with the government’s green initiative. This place is also famous for an extravaganza festival which is known as the Gangtok Food and Culture Festival held in December every year and thronged by connoisseurs from all over the world.

The Statue of Unity is visible on the way of MG Road which comprises of the figures of Bhutia Chieftain Khye Bumsa, the Lepcha leader Thetong Tek and his wife Ngo Kong ngol. This statue symbolizes  peace, love, and harmony.The statue of Mahatma Gandhi enhances the dignity of this place.  Victorian lamps and various types of benches along the path make that place magnificent.  MG Road gets stunning look during dark.

Ganesh Tok

Ganesh Tok is a small temple(dedicated to Lord Ganesha ) and a loved viewpoint in Gangtok. Situated on top of a hill, the quaint place has mind-stirring views ,from here the Kanchenjunga hill can be seen in its accurate form with great beauty but the tourists can enjoy the best look  in the morning. The Ganesh Tok viewpoint, situated at a distance of 6500, offers stunning views of the mountains covered with snow.Due to the size of this temple only single person can enter at a time. A beautifully sculpted idol of lord Ganesha is inside the temple.The colorful holy flags are in a ascending order along the path.During the Ganesh Chaturthi festival the temple is adorned with the colorful lights and flowers, hymns are chanted followed by an Aarti ceremony and fireworks, creating a ambience of magical divinity.

.This temple’s tranquil ambience and circular viewing lounge provide a soothing combination of natural and saintly vibes,

Hanuman Tok

Hanuman Tok, dedicated to Lord Hanuman is situated near Ganesh Tok at an altitude of 7200 feet at a distance of 11 km from Gangtok and offers an amazing view of the Kanchenjunga range. The temple has a religious significance attached to it and offers a peaceful surrounding. It is known for fulfilling the wishes of its devotees. Hanuman Tok should definitely be visited at least once to experience its beauty . It is a perfect place for all nature lovers and photographers. When the tourists start to climb the paved stairs ,surrounding holy sounds from the hanging bells make the tourists mesmerized .hymns chanting and religious music make the heavenly feeling inside the temple.

There is a  myth behind the Hanuman tok. When lord Hanuman was on his way to Lanka from Himalaya, he took rest here.He was carrying Sanjivani to cure Lakshmana from  disease.

In 1950s a political officer named Appaji Pant got a dream at this place after that the Hanuman temple was consecrated.This temple is now completely maintained by Units of 17 Mountain Division of the Army.

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is located at Deorali and less than 2km. from Gangtok.it is one of most important organization of Tibetan language and culture.Inside the premises of the institute,there is also a museum & a library enriched with very famous Tibetan books. This institute is surrounded by a small forest of birch,oak. magnolia.The institute building represents the Tibetan architecture.The foundation stone was laid by the 14th Dalai Lama in the year of 1957.It was inaugurated by Jawaharlal Nehru.Ground floor of the institute is occupied by the museum,very rare collection of statues, coins.thankas, Tibetan artwork etc are preserved here.however the most prominent majestic image of Manjushri is also established inside the museum. Inside the institute ,visitors can enjoy so many kinds of modern art & murals which are at several section of the walls around.Apart from this library holds one of  the largest collection of Tibetan literature in the world.The rich collection of manuscript of Tibetan, Sanskrit,Lepcha, Chinese language are also preserved here.Library has over 60,000 volumes which contain the translation of Buddha’s teaching & very interesting xylographs.

The land area of the institute was donated by late king of Sikkim Tashi Namgyal,from then such the name of the institute.In the year of 1950 it was occupied by China,After getting the indication of the brutal chinese activity,tibetan realized to store the precious religious books & manuscripts somewhere securely outside Tibet where scholars & researchers from all over the world could utilize them to research on Tibetan culture & heritage.After getting concept, inhabitants tried to form the institute conceptually .In the year of 1956 ,Buddha.s 2500th birth anniversary was celebrated and getting the royal invitation Dalai Lama & Panchen Lama came to heartily join the program.Dalai Lama laid the foundation stone of Namgyal Institute of Tibetology.In 1958, the institute was inaugurated by Jawaharlal Nehru.Under the able guidance of Mr.Nirmal kumar Sinha ,institute became a world class institute.

The Himalayan Zoological Park

The Himalayan Zoological Park is located in Bulbuley, 5 km away from Gangtok and is the place for all the wildlife lovers. With an altitude of 1780 meters, one gets an amazing view of the Mount Kanchenjunga from here. Established in 1991, Himalayan Zoological Park is the first one of its kind situated in the North-Eastern part of India. The park fulfils all the requirements of a Zoo where the creatures are kept under regular conditions and safeguarded as well as tamed without irritating them and ensuring that they live in their normal habitat. Spread over 205 hectares of land in the mountainous terrain, the park is home to a variety of fauna including the snow leopard cat, goral, Himalayan Palm Civet, Himalayan Red Panda, Himalayan Monal Pheasant, Crimson-Horned Pheasant, and Himalayan Black Bear etc.

The Forests, Environment & Wildlife Management Department, Government of Sikkim maintains this first ever zoological park of Sikkim. A 2.5 km road runs through the park where you can either drive or walk. In case you decide to walk, be prepared since it will take a long amount of time to reach the habitats. So, it is advisable for you to hire a car for about half a day and explore the zoo. Some facilities present at the zoo include café, souvenir shop, drinking water points, washrooms and a watchtower for you to get an amazing view of the entire area. Do visit the Himalayan Zoological Park in Gangtok to be a part of the natural habitat of a variety of species and enjoy the wonderful natural beauty surrounding the place.

Flower Exhibition Center

Flower Exhibition Center, is located in Gangtok. .It lies at one end and below the ridge park. , it is at a walking distance from the MG Marg. The government of Sikkim organizes an annual orchid show which make the flower lovers enriched.Inside the center fantastic and rare collections of flowers are displayed.The best time is between March to June for flower lovers because on that time orchids are in full bloom.  In this exhibition  participants from the neighboring states are invited to be a part of the annual flower contest held in the premises by the Government of Sikkim.

This center is filled with unusual species of plants, notable of them are Blue Venda Orchids ,Celosia ,Chrysanthemum, Paps etc.There is a small footbridge over an artificial pool that the tourists can walk across.Enchanting fragrances of anonymous flowers make  refreshing ambience inside the center.  a very refreshing place for the visitors.

Do Drul Chorten

This monument (locally known as Chorten ) is located at a short distance from Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and on a hill top.Top of the temple is made with gold and a deity enshrined on it.

very interesting &terrified story was established by the locals about this place.It is heard that entire this place was thronged with the evil ghost and always tried to harm the locals.Later an honourable &renowned lama of tibet,named asTrulshik Rinpoche came to this place to establish tranquility on the prestigious invitation of quee of sikkim .He consecrated this chorten in the year of 1946 to force out evil spirits.Rinpoche couldn’t communicate in any language other than Tibetan, but he was admired by the local people because of his polite behavior .There are so many valuable items were preseved like Buddhist religious book ‘Tanjur’,complete Mantras ,Buddhist Articles etc.Rinpoche also donated his expensive Swiss watch which was guifted by queen.

108 prayer bells are around the chorten and all of which devine mantras are inscribed on them in Tibetan.

Saramsa Garden

This landscaped garden is situated at a distance of 14 km. from Gangtok town.It is the ideal place for tourists’ amusement.This garden was established in the year of 1922 by the Sikkim Forest Department.Inside the Saramsa Garden,different kinds of fruit plants were introduced by forest manager Rai Saheb Bhim Bahadur & practicing of fruit growing was continued until 1940.Some days after fruit garden was transformed into Ipeca Garden due to the plantation of medicinal plant Ipecacuanha.This plant has curative abilities.There is a gigantic nursery inside the garden and it forms an exhibit of Sikkim’s floriculture.The flowing water of Rani river through this garden is an extra achievement for the connoisseur  tourists.This garden is divided into several  blocks.The canopy of treese are giving the nature shade by blocking out the sunlight.The essence of this garden snitch the heart of the tourist.

Tashi Viewpoint

Tashi view point is located at a distance of 8 kms from Gangtok station,nearest location is Ganesh Tok. It is one of the best sunrise & sunset view point.This view point is a circular shaped platform,from this point visitors can enjoy 360 degree perspective of that entire region.This point was built by the king of Sikkim, Tashi Namgyal.Impressive Himalayan mountain especially Mt. Kanchenjunga & Mt. Siniolchu attract the nature lovers.The Phodong Monastery & the Labrang Monastery are also visible from here.Most of the visitors visit that place early in the morning to be witness of beautiful sunrise & play of light over the mountain.This is the ideal place for visitors to spend some peaceful & quality time.The tourism department has built some resting sheds, park & cafeteria.

Banjhakri Falls

Banjhakri Waterfalls Park is situated at 7 km from Gangtok town.It is a landscaped park & contains man made lake , footbridge, paved pathways.The forest spread out over 2 acres of forestland.A shamanic deity is consecrated inside the park & it is known to all,God Shamanic is the founder of Nepali shamanism.Banjhakri falls is sourced from freshwater springs.The soothing hum of waterfalls is uplifted in the morning time and it is really euphonious & enjoyable.The park is lightened by the solar powered lamp.

Ban Jhakri means jungle priest.Local belief says that the first jhakri or shaman acquired the power from God to subdue the evil spirit.However he required the right boys & teach the technique secretly in forest cave.After the training the boys became jhakris and applied there techniques to bring the evil spirit under control.There are so many figurines inside garden which depict the Jhakri mythology.This park is also known as Energy Park.this is the ideal place for picnic.

Ranka Monastery

Ranka Monastery also known as Lingdum Monastery, the Ranka Monastery which follows the Zurmang Kagyud lineage of Buddhism is situated at a distance of 20 km from Gangtok. The magnificent monastery is spread over a vast area and provides enchanting views to the tourists. Considered as one of the most significant and glorious monasteries in East Sikkim .It is considered by the Bollywood Film Industry as one of the preferable shooting spot for it,s regal beauty .

This monastery is surrounded by forested mountains.

There is  a 2-storied building with  several classrooms for the young lamas to study near the Monastery.Here the young lamas undergo training. During the break, the courtyard thronged with monks, wearing beautiful robes which are red &saffron in color. There are a restaurant and a gift shop on the premises for relaxation.Tourists are allowed to free access almost every part of the monastery.Main Monastery building is located at the inner sanctum.The most interesting part of the building is it’s pagoda top.Inside the prayer room there is a big golden statue of Buddha.Inside the prayer room.The wall of this room is decorated with intricate designs & thankas also hanging on them.Another interesting part is retreat center where the lamas meditate.Outside of the prayer hall tourists get the extended terrace,which is really wonderful.

Ropeway

Ropeway is known to be one of the top thrilling things to do in Gangtok, Gangtok Ropeway offers not only an exhilarating experience but also a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the valley below. Inaugurated in 2003, the double cable zig back ropeway can carry upto 24 passengers and covers a distance of 2 km to and fro. Usually the cable cars are full and you have to wait in line for your turn. But the gorgeous views of the Kanchenjunga peaks and high hilly area on the way is totally worth the wait. Also, since there are no seats inside the cable car, so to obtain a good view standing seat (next to the glass pane), you will have to try and get in first.

The aerial ropeway is 935 m long, from the start to the end point and the complete journey takes a total of 15 – 20 minutes. It has three terminal stations – Tashiling, Namnang or Deorali, the lowest one being at Deorali. You can get on or get down at either of the three stations. The Deorali Station is situated near the Institute of Tibetology and offers beautiful views of the Gangtok market and the township below. As you go higher and higher, there are even better panoramic vistas of the valley below and of the blue hills in the backdrop. Namnang is the central station and the highest one is at Tashiling near the Secretariat.

The Rumtek Monastery

The Rumtek Monastery is one of the largest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim, perched on top of a hill 23 km from Gangtok. Originally called as the Dharma Chakra Centre, it belongs to the Kargyu sect of Buddhists who originated in Tibet in the 12th century. Verdant green mountains surround the monastery and thus serves as a visual treat besides being a focal point for spiritual solace. If you climb on top to the Rumtek Monastery, you can have a breathtaking view of the whole Gangtok town situated right opposite the hill. Besides this, the architecture of the striking monastery is one of the finest in the world.

The glorious Rumtek Monastery houses a beautiful shrine temple and a monastery for the monks which were established with the aim of spreading the Buddhist teachings around the world. The sublime structure has a walkway around it on which the monks, pilgrims and visitors perform Kora (a circuit round of the monastery). The splendid Rumtek Monastery has preserved a golden stupa and various other sculptures which belonged to the 16th Karmapa. It also serves as the storehouse for many unique objects besides storing some of the world’s unique religious scriptures. The massive prayer hall inside the stunning monastery is a place worth seeing that is decorated with splendid murals, statues and thangkhas.

Nathula

Nathula, one of the highest motor-able roads in the world, is a mountain pass in the Himalayan peaks that connects India with China. Situated on the Indo-Tibetan border 14450 ft. above sea level, Nathu La is one of the most important Himalayan passes in the country. Nathu means ‘listening ears’, and La means ‘pass’. Nathula is one of the three open trading border posts between India and China and is famous for its picturesque beauty and beautiful environment. The temperature here remains low for most parts of the year, and it becomes a hot-spot for tourists during summer.

New Baba Mandir is new constructed shrine of sepahi Baba Harbhajan Singh, who died as he fell from horse back on to a gorge while on duty, is popularly known as Baba Mandir. This mandir, located 50km away from Gangtok, at an elevation of 4000 meters, is worshiped by local people as well as army officials. This Mandir hosts all the memories of Baba Harbhajan Singh. There is an interesting belief about this temple. Baba Harbhajan was an Indian soldier who died near the Nathula Pass. He is revered by the soldiers of the Indian army, who have built a shrine in his honor. Baba is believed to have granted favors to the soldiers, and guard each one in the inhospitable terrain. There is a Old Baba Mandir near Changu (Tsomogo Lake) dedicated to Baba Harbhajan too.

Inside the Baba Mandir, you will come across a large photo of Harbhajan Singh which is worshiped by his devotees. Tourists who come here leave their water bottle for a few days. And collect it later for the belief is that by drinking that water all the wishes come true. Harbhajan Singh’s office has been built on one side of the temple with a dining place. And a room for him to stay at with his uniform and shoes. Though the temple is present on the side of a road, it is surrounded by magnificent mountains thereby giving an amazing view to the tourists. Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple is a must-visit due to the tales associated with the place.

Tsomogo Lake / Chango Lake

Tsomogo Lake is also known as Tsongmo Lake or Chango Lake. It is one of the most famous lake in this route. Altitude of this lake is 12,313ft and situated 40km away from Gangtok. The lake is surrounded by steep mountains which are covered with snow during winter. During summer the snow cover melts and forms the source for the lake. The lake surface reflects different colors with change of seasons and held in great reverence by the local Sikkimese people. The lake which remains frozen in winter season, sometimes extending up to May, receives an average annual precipitation of 1,183 mm (46.6 in) with temperatures recorded in the range of 0–25 °C.

Tsomogo Lake is a glacial lake that derives its water from the melting snows of the mountains around it. This glacial lake is famous for its color changing waters. Monsoons see a bright aquamarine lake whereas, in the winters, it freezes into a translucent cover of ice. As the summer approaches in mid-May, the periphery of this lake is dotted with a thousand blossoming flowers. All thesse lend the waters a riot of vibrant colors.
In the Bhutia language, ‘Tso’ means lake and ‘Mgo’ mean head and essentially means ‘source of the water’, holding immense religious and cultural significance to the Bhutia people. Considered as a sacred lake by the Sikkimese, Changu Lake is associated with many myths and legends. They say the Buddhist monks used to analyze the color of the lake to forecast the future.

Best time to visit

Though Gangtok can access throughout the year but Tsomogo Lake, Baba Mandir & Nathula route is not accessible for 365 days. So you have to considered about those route accessibility and plan accordingly on your Gangtok vacation.

In January – February

From January to February Gangtok  is at its coldest; especially in the mountains, but clear skies reward those who brave the low temperatures. The valleys are warmer and sunny with clear views of the incredible Himalaya. Due to colder temperatures, visitor numbers will be lower.

High altitude area specially Tsomogo Lake, Nathula & Baba Mondir road mostly closed due to heavy snow. Difficulty for getting permit on this area. It is ideal for those who want chilled  weather and heavy snow. Night temperature may goes near to negative. Travelers may arrested by snow in this time in high altitude. Travelers may visit in this time with sufficient buffer day.

In March

On March Gangtok is at its coldest; snow melting has started in high altitude areas. Temperature may closer to negative sometimes at night. Mountains remain covered snow clapped. The valleys are warmer and sunny with clear views of the incredible Himalaya. Due to colder temperatures, visitor numbers will be lower. You can plan at this time but you can stuck any time at high altitude due to snow falls. Road to Tsomogo Lake, Nathula & New Baba Mondir may close and you may not get permit due to snow.

In April – May

April and May are among the most popular times to travel as temperatures are pleasant. And the valleys are abundant in nature; especially as all the flowers start to bloom. Early April witnesses the Rhododendron, so mountain slope may colorful. It is ideal for photographers and nature lovers Early April you may get snow at Tsomogo Lake, Nathula & New Baba Mondir route.

In June – September

June to September is monsoon season in Sikkim. But monsoon comes in this area little late so any one can visit till mid June. Although showers can occur at night without spoiling daytime explorations. But conditions aren’t ideal for those who want to explore remote areas. Sightseeing is still possible – just prepare yourself with a raincoat. Views are best in the mornings following night-time downpours. It is the best time for mountain shower lover. But landslide can happen any time to spoil your trip. So plan accordingly with sufficient buffer time.

In October

The majority of travelers (around 80%) want to visit Gangtok in October. So plan well in advance to ensure you get your perfect accommodation and good value flights. It is are ideal for offbeat lovers and enjoying stunning views and pleasant temperatures. Expect it to be around 25°C in the sun, but there will be cooler temperatures in the evenings and at higher altitudes.

In November

It is ideal time for those traveler who want mostly clear sky for photograph. So don’t hesitate to plan in this season. This season is famous for mostly clear with blue sky, Snow Clapped mountain & less crowd so anyone can spend their memorable time with your love one.

In December

On December Gangtok weather started cold; especially in the mountains, but clear skies reward those who brave the low temperatures. The valleys are warmer and sunny with clear views of the incredible Himalaya. Due to colder temperatures, visitor numbers will be lower. But from 20th to 31st December Gangtok mostly overcrowded. Tsomo Lake, Nathula & Baba Mandir route close any time due to sudden snow falls.

Please visit and let us give the opportunity to serve you and make your vacation memorable one……..

Green Sikkim, Clean Sikkim & Plastic Free Sikkim

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The state is spread across valleys. About 90% of the state’s population lives in rural areas. Many perennial rivers flow in the state with numerous hydropower plants producing surplus electricity that is sold to other states. Tourism and agriculture are also important constituents of the state’s economy.

The drainage system of Himachal is composed both of rivers and glaciers. Himalayan rivers criss-cross the entire mountain chain. Himachal Pradesh provides water to both the Indus and Ganges basins. The drainage systems of the region are the Chandra Bhaga or the Chenab, the Ravi, the Beas, the Sutlej, and the Yamuna. These rivers are perennial and are fed by snow and rainfall. They are protected by an extensive cover of natural vegetation.

Himachal Pradesh has around 463 birds, 77 mammalian, 44 reptile and 80 fish species. The Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Pin Valley National Park are the national Parks located in the state. The state also has 30 wildlife sanctuaries and 3 conservation reserves.

Various packages are there for Dharamshala Tour along with Dalhousie and Amritsar , organized by Himalayan Destination . You can select anyone as per your requirement. For sure it will be one of your memorable vacation, as we are the specialist in this sector.your

How To Reach

By Train

The nearest broad gauge head is at Pathankot. It is around 2.5 hour journey from this station to reach Dharamshala or Dalhousie. Amritsar is another railway station to start with. Both are well connected with major cities of India.

By Road

From Pathankot to reach Dharamshala or Dalhousie it will take around 2.5 hours journey and from Chandigarh to reach Dharamshala by road it will takes around 5.5 hours and to reach Dalhousie around 7.5 hours.

Before hiring a private car, ensure that the driver has experience driving in hilly regions and is not deprived of sleep.

By Air

The nearest Airport is Amritsar which is well connected with major cities of India.

Tourist spots

Palampur, with pine and deodar forests and tea gardens encircling the town and numerous streams pouring in, Palampur is known for the enchanting combination of water and greenery. Nestled between the majestic Dhauladhar Ranges,  Palampur was first noticed by the Englishmen and was soon turned into a bustling town as the centre of trade and commerce. Their presence in this town is beautifully reflected in the Victorian style mansions and castles. The remnants of its glorious past can be seen in the beautiful amalgamation of the beautiful English style buildings and the picturesque landscapes. Palampur being one of the unexplored destinations offer a quaint and serene environment to tourists. Among the tourist attractions here, Tashi Jong Monastery and the tea gardens should be on the must-visit list for anyone.

Mcleodganj, is a hill station enlisted into Dharamshala tour which is very popular among trekkers. Mcleodganj is situated in Kangra district at a distance of 34 km from Kangra City. The city is distinctively separated as upper and lower divisions with different altitudes. The upper division is popularly known as Mcleodganj. Its culture is a beautiful blend of Tibetan with some British influence. Also known as Little Lhasa and famous around the world for being home to the Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama, Mcleodganj is a beautiful town situated near upper Dharamsala. Nestled amidst majestic hills and lush greenery, this town is culturally blessed by a prominent Tibetan influence owing to the major settlement of Tibetans here. Mcleodganj has one of the most mesmerizing landscapes in the entire state of Himachal Pradesh and attracts a lot of tourists throughout the year. The towns of Dharamsala, Mcleodganj, Bhagsu Nag and Kangra are situated very close to each other and tourists must cover all these destinations while travelling here. Few of the most eminent and religiously significant monasteries in India are located here, including the Namgyal Monastery and Tsuglagkhang, where the spiritual leader Dalai Lama resides. Tourists must also visit the scenic Dal Lake and Triund, which are apt for quiet picnics.

Dharamsala, is famed as the holy residence of the Dalai Lama and houses the Tibetan monk in exile. Dharamsala is located in Kangra district at a distance of 18 km from Kangra City. The city is distinctively separated as upper and lower divisions with different altitudes. The lower division is the Dharamsala town itself whereas the upper division is popularly known as Mcleodganj.
This is situated on the upper hilly stretch of land of Kangra Valley which is placed just against the picturesque scene of Dhauladhar ranges and thick deodar forests in the background, Dharamshala has become an important highlight in most Himachal tour packages. Being a Tibetan hub, Dharamsala is considered to be one of the best places to learn and explore Buddhism and Tibetan Culture. As the place of residence of His Holiness, The Dalai Lama, this picturesque destination is not only popular among tourists but among spiritual seekers and religious travelers. Dharamshala boasts of jaw-dropping backdrop, stunning lake, vibrant monasteries, colorful temples, sparkling waterfalls, and vintage forts & museums.
To make your Dharamshala tour more fascinating and organized, here is the list of places to visit in Dharamshala.

What To See Around Dharamshala

Tsuglagkhang Complex, Located on the Temple Road, the Tsuglagkhang Complex is a religious center and one of the important points of interest in Dharamshala tour. It was built when His Holiness the Dalai Lama visited India for the first time in 1959. The complex is one of the most important places in Dharamshala and comprises of Dalai Lama’s abode and monastery. Now a days, this complex also houses of public and private sessions of Dalai Lama along with numerous Tibetan dance and music performances.

Namgyal Monastery, in Mcleodganj is one of the most popular tourist places  of Dharamshala Tour and a major Buddhist learning center. With almost 200 monks, the famous monastery is the largest Tibetan temple outside the geographical boundary of Tibet. This monastery looks vibrant and pulls crowd round the year. The prayer wheels, the decor, the Tibetan style architecture, and overall color scheme is visually appealing and mesmerizing.

Dal Lake, is a small mid-altitude lake (1,775 m above sea level) located at a distance of 11 kilometers away from Dharamshala near the village of Tota Rani on Macleodganj, Naddi road in district Kangra, Himachal Pradesh in northern India. Dal Lake is 2KM walk westwards from MacLeodganj bazaar. The name ‘Dal Lake’ is taken from Kashmir’s Dal Lake.
The lake is surrounded by deodar trees and is considered to be a sacred spot, as well as pilgrimage center, as there is small Shiva mandir (shrine) on its bank, which is considered to be very sacred and as old as 200 years. According to one legend a sage named Durvasa prayed to Lord Shiva here.. The area around Dal Lake is a natural paradise. The area of the lake is around 10,000 square meters. The stunning lake is surrounded by lush green deodar vegetation and snow capped mountains. There are different kinds of fish that live in this lake. The lake has greenish water, becomes most popular places in Dharamshala tour. It is also a site of a base camp for trekkers leading to expeditions on nearby hills.
Dal lake is mostly visited by tourist during the month of September as a fair is organized on the bank of the lake which is attended by the people of the Gaddi tribe in a large number. The fair is celebrated to mark the presence of Lord Shiva. Dal lake is a perfect site to laze around with picnic baskets as one can enjoy boating and many other activities.

Bhagsunag temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most ancient temples and one of the most visited tourist places of Dharamshala tour. Every year thousands of pilgrims flock to this temple, nestled in lofty hills and winding trails. The surrounding beauty of this temple has made it one of the most mesmerizing tourist attractions in Dharamshala.

Bhagsunag Waterfalls, is popularly known as the Bhagsu Falls, this scenic cascade is located few km up slope from the Bhagsunag Temple. It is one of the most important Dharamshala tour sightseeing destinations. The waterfall is 20 m in height and surrounded by pristine natural beauty. The sparkling cascade of milky white water looks most charming during monsoon. Also, Bhagsunag falls in McLeodganj is a popular trekking stretch and one of the splendid places in dharamshala tour.

Gyuto Monastery, is one of the best places to see of Dharamshala tour. Gyuto Monastery is the residence of Karmapa – the Head of the Kagyu Tibetan Buddhism. It is quite a popular place for sightseeing in Dharamshala courtesy its research on Buddhist Philosophy, Tantric rituals, and Tantric meditation. This famous monastery was built in the memory of soldiers who devoted their lives to Tibet Freedom War. The monastery complex is serene and beautiful and it’s decor, style, and architecture look amazing. The monastery with the mesmerizing Dhauladhar in its background is one of the finest tourist places in Dharamshala.

Kangra Fort, witness awe-inspiring history and marvelous heritage at Kangra Fort, which is one of the most popular tourist places in Dharamshala tour. It is an ancient structure dating back to 4th century BC. As one of the oldest forts in India and the largest fort in the entire Himalayan range, this royal specimen of architecture was once an abode of the Royal family of Kangra – Katoch Dynasty. The ruins speak for the kind of historical incidents the fort has witnessed. Unveil the truth of Kangra fort history by visiting the place and listening to the stories said by the locals. This is one of the best places to visit near Dharamshala which offers a close look to the ancient fort. It is one of the must visit place in Dharamshala.

Kangra Art Museum, located near Dharamshala bus stand, Kangra Art Museum is a magnificent hub that displays the objects of Tibetan and Buddhist culture, dating back to many centuries. Due to its heritage value, it is one of the most popular places in Dharamshala tour. The museum started its operation in 1990 and is now considered as one of the not to miss sightseeing in Dharamshala.
The museum is known for preserving ancient traits and ethos of Kangra valley in the form of paintings, statues, fabrics, weapons, utensils, and temple figurines. The museum has one dedicated section for modern painters and sculptors as well.

The War Memorial, is one of the best Dharamshala tourist places that is located amidst the lush green forests of this hill town. The memorial was established to pay tribute to the martyrs of Kangra who lost their lives during the Indo-China War that took place in 1947, 1962, 1965, 1971 and UN Peace Operations. The place is surrounded by pine trees and you can also visit the nearby cafe offering delicious snacks and beverages.

Masroor temple, is known for age old rock cut temples that date back to the 8th century AD, is a historical site. This is an upcoming and one of the most liked tourist spots in Dharamshala. There are 15 monolithic temples depicting Indo-Aryan style architecture, depicting various tales of great Indian epics.
Masroor is one of the famous Dharamshala tourist places is mostly frequented by history lovers, art enthusiasts, painters, solo travelers, and nature admirers. The temple carvings are excellent and superbly detailed. They make the place a glorious site of Indian art and of course one of the major Dharamshala points of interest.

Naddi, is a serene and absolutely charming village, located up the hill, far away from the chatter of the main town. One of the most picturesque places to visit near Dharamshala. Naddi hill point is located in a remote village that offers a mesmerizing view of the lofty mountains, deep plush Kangra valley, and luxuriant deodar forests. On a clear day, you can also view snowy peaks of the Dhauladhar ranges which is why it’s one of the most charming places to see in Dharamshala tour package.

St. John Church, is an ancient church which was built in 1852 and is located near Dharamshala on the way to McLeodGanj. The church flaunts the Neo Gothic Style of architecture and is famous for its Belgian Stained Glass Windows. Also, there is a church by the same name in Nainital too, which was built in 1844 and is among the most delightful places to visit in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.

Dharamshala Cricket Stadium, situated at an altitude of 1,457 m, in the mountains in the quaint town of Dharamshala is the Dharamshala Cricket ground which is the top attraction in the city. It ranks as one of the top places to visit in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. As it is located at a height, it is also one of the highest cricket grounds in the world. The surroundings of the Dharamshala stadium add to the beauty of the place.

Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, is one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala tour package. Founded by Tenzin Gyatso, this is a Tibetan library in the beautiful town of Dharamshala. This library is an interesting place for the history buffs, as it has books and sources that were saved and relocated during the escape of 1959. One can head here to enhance their knowledge and learning.

Triund, is famous for trekkers. You can take a trek to Triund while staying in Dharamshala. This is one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala which gives you a perfect chance to catch the glimpse of majestic Himalayas. Located at an altitude of 2828 m, Triund is truly a delight for trekkers and nature lovers while people can also experience camping in Dharamshala. Please note that camping is currently not allowed in Triund and you need to trek back to your stay the same day.

Jwala Devi temple, in Kangra lures travelers from across the country which is also called one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala. Don’t miss out on visiting the temple while holidaying in Dharamshala. The temple is located at a distance of 56 km from Dharamshala and experiences regular connectivity. This temple in Kangra is dedicated to Jwala Devi and the flames here are lighting miraculously from previous centuries.

Tibetan Art Museum, is located in the suburban district of McLeodganj and is one of the most popular Tibetan Museums in India. While exploring places on Dharamshala sightseeing this one place will surely give you a true glimpse of Tibetan culture and their development with the passage of time. The museum is maintained by the Central Tibetan Administration Department of Information and International Relations and is located in proximity to Dalai Lama Temple.

Aghanjar Mahadev Temple, is located at a distance of merely 5 km from Dharamshala at the foothills of Dhauladhar. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be constructed in the early 19th century. Apart from the magnificent architecture of the temple, the prime attraction of this temple is the waterfall that accentuates the beauty of this serene place. If you are visiting during the best time to visit Dharamshala then the tranquil ambiance will make you fall in love with this place.

Kalachakra Temple, is located within the temple complex of the Thekchen Choling temple is one of the famous tourist places in Dharamshala. The temple was built in the year 1992 and houses the astounding murals of ‘Wheel of Time’. The temple is used as a center of public teaching by his holiness Dalai Lama and the beautiful architecture of the temple exhibits the rich ethnicity of the Tibetan culture.

Indrahar Pass, which is one of the top trekking trails in the entire Himachal Pradesh and is another one on the list of places to visit in Dharamshala. This pass is located at an altitude of 4,500 ft above the sea level in the Dhauladhar Ranges. People from all around the world come and opt for trekking both at Indrahar Pass and Triund Hill. If you are fond of natural beauty then you must include Indrahar Pass in your itinerary.

Hanuman Ka Tibba, is must visited place in Dharamshala, which is the highest hill nestled in the Dhauladhar ranges. You might not be aware of the fact that this place is located at a height of 19,000 ft and all adventure fanatics head to Hanuman ka Tibba for activities like mountaineering, trekking and more. If you also fall in the same category then this is the place to visit on your trip.

Nechung Monastery, is the best place if you are looking for an ultimate spiritual experience. It is believed to be the home of an oracle who was and is the ultimate guide of all the monks living there. The Nechung Monastery also houses a library which gives an insight into the religion and history of Tibetan people.

Norbulingka Institute, gives an insight into the culture and Tibetan life in India. While exploring the monastery, you will also get a chance to witness the murals and art that represent Tibetan religion, food, and lifestyle. If you want to witness a surreal experience then you must visit the Tibetan temple on the premises and seek blessings.

Lahesh Caves, is mostly explored by adventure buffs and one of the lesser known visiting places in Dharamshala. Located at a height of 11,482 feet above the sea level, Lahesh caves offer a commendable trekking experience. If you like to experience something out of this world then you must visit these caves. They are surrounded by hilly terrains and coniferous forests which adds to the beauty of this little tourist attraction in Dharamshala.

Chinmaya Tapovan, is usually attracts peace seekers as it offers a tranquil setting to the tourists. Here, you will find a huge statue of Lord Hanuman and a meditation complex along with a recreation center and a school. On your Dharamshala sightseeing tour, you must head to Chinmaya Tapovan which has recently made it to the list of tourist places in Dharamshala.

Chintpurni Devi Temple, is among the most wonderful and peaceful places to see in Dharamshala for those looking for some spiritual guidance and blessings of Goddess Chintpurni. It is said that Goddess Chintpurni was the youngest of the 9 Devis owing to which it is very easy to please her with a little pampering. Locals say that she will easily grant all your wishes provided what you wish for is honest and positive. It is because of this myth that this small temple is frequented by devotees and worshipers from around the country and makes this spot one of the best places to visit in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.

Best Time To Visit Dharamshala

The best time to visit Dharamshala between February to June i.e. spring and summer, when the weather is pleasant with a maximum temperature of 25 degrees Celsius.

Dharamshala in summer – From April to June

The temperature begins to rise, and snow begins to fade away in April. The temperature in Summers ranges between 20 and 35 degrees Celsius. The weather remains pleasant throughout and hence, it is an excellent time to enjoy sightseeing and various treks in the Himalayas. This season is for honeymooners, backpackers, families and solo travelers. Late summers in Dharamshala experiences a humid subtropical climate where the temperature may rise as high as 33-degree Celsius. Flowers are in full bloom, conifers and pines are at their greenest, and all the fun adventure activities like paragliding, water rafting, trekking and mountaineering are at large.

Dharamshala in monsoon – From June to September

Dharamshala receives heavy rainfall from July to August when the temperature ranges from 18 to 22 degrees Celsius. If you are planning to visit around this time, then be prepared for unwanted delays due to adverse weather conditions or even worse roadblocks due to landslides. Popular trekking routes are hence shut down. However, there are a few good things about monsoon, the prices of hotels are comparatively lower, and the rivers are at their mightiest flow which is a beautiful sight that must never be missed.

Dharamshala in pre winter – From October to Mid December

This is one of perfect time for safe & nature lover traveler. After rainy season hills are full of green color. Weather is pleasant but chill. Temperatures ranges from 10°C to 20°C. Most of the times sky is clear.

Dharamshala in winter – From Mid December to March

Winters are the best time to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Dharamshala. The whole stretch from Late December to March is quite cold in Dharamshala. The temperature in Winters remains between 4 and 7 degrees Celsius. Snowfall begins by the end of December and continues until March. Winters mostly see crowds of honeymooners and hardcore adventurists. Dharamshala receives fresh snowfall almost every day in winter. Some of the mountain waterfalls freeze in the sub-zero temperature. Places like McLeodganj look like a postcard-like dream. Snow trekking to Triund is a favorite adventure during this time.

Dalhousie, the tiny tinsel town, tucked away in the lap of Himalaya is a piece of paradise for all the travelers. Nestled amidst green pine and oak trees in Chamba District of Himachal Pradesh, Dalhousie is a pristine, yet gorgeous hill town on the Dhauladhar Range of Himalayas. It boasts of old world charm, mesmerizing natural landscape, pine clad valleys, flower bedecked meadows, fast flowing rivers, magnificent misty mountains and some of the most spectacular views in the world. The air smells of the Scottish and Victorian architecture and the ambiance reminds you of the pristine British flavors.
Dalhousie, one of the favorite among most tourists travelling to Himanchal Pradesh is famously known for its mesmerizing natural beauty and its old world charm. This hill station was one of the most favorite summer destinations of the ruling Britishers and this is truly reflected in the majestic Victorian style mansions in this region. Situated far from the buzzing cities in the country, this quaint town transports you to a pollution free environment in the lap of nature. Dalhousie is known for its scenic beauty has a number mountains and river streams that tourists must visit. Among them the most famous are Panch Pulla, Satdhara Falls and the Daikund peak. There are many fantastic places to visit in Dalhousie and awesome things to experience in the amazing hill station.

What To See Around Dalhousie

Khajjiar in Dharamshala Tour

A small town, Khajjjiar which is known as Mini Switzerland of India near Dalhousie . It is attraction for the tourists because of a unique combination of forests, lakes and pastures. The mesmerizing beauty of this place has greatly influenced and inspired many kingdoms throughout the years, including the Rajputs and Mughals. The natural beauty and picturesque landscape of this place are bound to leave an everlasting impression on a tourist. 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 plateau which also has a small lake which is one of the most favored tourist spots in this town. Khajjiar is surrounded by green meadows and dense forests and it is also known for its beautiful temples. This region also attracts adventure seekers and has a lot of options in adventure sports like paragliding, horse riding, zorbing, trekking etc. Khajjiar is a must visit place for everyone on the way to Dalhousie of the Dharamshala packagen  and its nearby regions. However, the way to Khajjiar can be closed sometimes during winters because of heavy snowfall. For best experience, you can plan a trip to Khajjiar in December and it is one of the best tourist places in Dalhousie for honeymoon couple.

Chamba in Dharamshala Tour

Chamba, is that one getaway you’ve always dreamed off. Minimal human alteration in the topography and environment and the balanced temperatures of the area make it the perfect destination all year round. The river Ravi cuts across town and adds to the scenery. Chamba is at the confluence of Ravi river with Chal river. This Himalayan Destination is amply endowed with a variety of flora and fauna, making it a very picturesque background for your holiday memoirs. There’s about enough lakes, wildlife sanctuaries and temples to make you feel like this virgin land has more than enough to offer to every tourist. You only go back richer from Chamba become must visit place in Dalhousie

Manimahesh Lake in Dharamshala Tour

Manimahesh Lake, situated close to Manimahesh Kailash Peak in the Pir Panjal Range of Himalayas, Manimahesh Lake is located in the Chamba district and is one of the most important places to visit in Chamba. The lake is located at a height of 4, 080 m from the mean sea level and has high religious significance after Lake Mansarovar in Tibet. The lake is a major pilgrimage trek, which is carried out during the months of August and September on the eighth day of new moon period, as per the Hindu Calendar and is known as Manimahesh Yatra. This Manimahesh Yatra is famous for Hindu religion and it is must visit place in Dalhousie if you have enough time to explore.

Please visit and let us give the opportunity to serve you and make your vacation memorable one……..

Green Himachal, Clean Himachal & Plastic Free Himachal

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Himachal Pradesh has around 463 birds, 77 mammalian, 44 reptile and 80 fish species. The Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Pin Valley National Park are the national Parks located in the state. The state also has 30 wildlife sanctuaries and 3 conservation reserves.

Shimla or Simla is the State capital of Himachal Pradesh. It is a popular holiday-retreat during the summer months and is well-known for its Victorian architecture, which is reflected in certain areas of the Mall and the Ridge. The elevation of Shimla is 2276 m above from the sea level.The newly married couple used to search for Shimla Manali Tour package for honeymoon.
Set amidst beautiful hills and mystical woods, Shimla is one of most aesthetically planned cities in India. An erstwhile summer capital of British India, this town’s captivating natural beauty, and the atmosphere are bound to leave any tourist overwhelmed. The well-knit roads, impeccable cleanliness, and an efficient administration make for a perfect combination for any tourist destination in the world. This town has colonial-style buildings alongside the historic temples and the amalgamation of the worlds leaves everyone visiting this region spellbound. Within this city, one must visit the Mall Road, The Ridge, Institute of Advanced Studies and Jakhu Temple. Shimla is also used as a base to cover other nearby places like Chail, Kufri, Naldehra, Mashobra, Tattapani and Narkanda. The Toy Train to Shimla from Kalka passes through beautiful hills, valleys and is one of the most beautiful train routes in the world. From Kalka to Shimla Toy train route passes through 108 nos of tunnels makes more attractive.
There are quite a few theories regarding the origin of the word Shimla. Locals insist that the name originates from Shyamali Devi, a re-incarnation of the fearsome Goddess Kali.

How To Reach

By Train, the nearest broad gauge head is at Kalka – a four- to seven-hour journey from Delhi. After that, take the mountain train from Kalka to Shimla, it takes time around four hours. This railway track has recently been granted the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The view is stunning, with the line passing through an amazing 103 tunnels.

By Road, it takes only 2 hours from Kalka to Shimla and takes 6 hours from Delhi to Shimla by car. Govt. & Pvt. bus services are also available from both Chandigarh & Delhi to Shimla.

If hiring a private car, ensure that the driver has experience driving in hilly regions and is not deprived of sleep.

By Air, The nearest airport is at Chandigarh, it’s about tthree hours away from Shimla.

What To See

Solan, located on the Punjab-Himachal Border, Solan lies on the lower ranges of the Himalayas and is more of an industrial town with various industries. Solan is a more low-key hill station ideal for travelers looking just some time away from city rush. A beautiful city in Himachal Pradesh, Solan has ancient temples and monasteries that attract hundreds of tourists and devotees every year. Being set in the backdrop of majestic hills adds and quaint charm to these centers of worship. This city also has a 300-year old fort located at the top of a hill which is in ruins but has an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the countryside. The Shoolini Mata Temple and jatoli Shiv Temple are must-visits for both devotees and tourists. One of the most famous monasteries in this region is the Yundung Monastery, which must be visited by everyone travelling to Solan.
Solan has one of the oldest breweries in the country and is popularly known as The Mushroom Capital of the country owing to the amount of Mushrooms produced every year. Solan is also called as The City of Red Gold as it produces bulk quantities of tomatoes.

The Mall: The Mall is the main shopping centre of Shimla. This shopping centre has a good number of banks, restaurants, post offices, clubs, bars and tourists offices. There is a famous theatre of Shimla called Gaiety Theatre. The Mall is also the main meeting place for the people of Shimla. Statue of Mahatma Gandhi just outside Christ Church located at the heart of the Mall.

The Ridge, built at the top of the town at 2230m, The Ridge is the center of Shimla’s cultural and social life – an excellent place to view the surrounding mountains.

Christ Church, The Ridge (Near Municipal Library). Open every day, services Su 8:00AM-11:00AM. Constructed in 1846, this is the second oldest church of the North India. The stain-glass windows, representing charity, faith, patience, hope, fortitude and humility, and 19th century organ are particularly impressive. The fresco that surrounds the chapel window was designed by Lockwood Kipling, Rudyard Kipling’s father.

Lower Bazaar, The Mall (Below Central Section). Shops Open Mo-Sa. The Lower Bazaar is home to the city’s less expensive hotels, cheaper restaurants and stores, and a congested wholesale vegetable market. Although less opulent than its upper neighbor, the Lower Bazaar retains an old worldly charm and is an excellent place to try some Shimla specialty dishes, like Uradh Dal with rice or Shepard’s Pie. It also sells clothes and household items.

Viceregal Lodge, The Mall (A top Observatory Hill),  Open every day (Only the entrance hall and gardens are open to the public). This lodge is now part of the Institute of Advanced Studies. An imposing British-raj mansion built under the guidance of Lord Dufferin in 1888. Manicured British style gardens surround the mansion on three sides, while the fourth side is a place to relax and watch the sun dip below the Himalayan foothills. The teak-paneled interior is impressive, and well worth a viewing. This lodge is a 1 hour walk from the end of the mall, near the Oberoi hotel.

Tara Devi Temple, is named after one of the many forms of Goddess Kali. This well-maintained temple is located at the top of a steep hill about 11 kms from Shimla bus stand. There are stunning views of Shimla town and the Himalayas. This is a perfect location for people who are looking for some rest and peace at a high altitude, around 6070 ft. The temple is very clean with a beautiful flower garden surrounding it.

Chadwick Falls, 7 km away from Shimla, the inviting spot of Chadwick Falls is a premier travel destination. A trip to the Chadwick Falls during the monsoons will be an unforgettable experience. Located in an incredible landscape, the place is home to some old shrines that are sites of immense significance for pilgrims.

Dorje Drag Monastery, Sarasvati Garden Estate, Kusmuti. A monastery in the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, also known as Thubten Evam Dorje Drag.

Kufri, in Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh is one of the most sought after holiday destinations, and more so for couples, because of its proximity to Shimla and relatively higher altitude which makes it a place with snow all through the winters.
Kufri is just about 10 km from Shimla and is quite a retreat if you’re in Shimla and snow is something which excites you. While there’s not much to see in Kufri as such, but the panoramic views and temples after a bit of trekking are worth the time. Kufri itself is mostly treated as a spot for the tourists visiting Shimla and it is advisable to club sightseeing in Shimla or nearby areas like Chail, Mashobra, Naldehra or Narkanda as well if you intend to visit Kufri. Also, Kufri is a relatively crowded and popular attraction as almost everyone visiting Shimla comes here.
Kufri Amusement Park located at 8500 ft. above sea level offering adventure activities like Burma Bridge Crossing, Flying Fox, Commando Net, Rock Climbing etc and also activities like Boating, Bump’em Cars, Rides, Indoor Golf and a number of virtual reality, redemption & video games. Other attractions include Restaurant, Coffee Shop, Shopping, Telescopic View etc. The food at the restaurant is excellent.

Chail, is a quiet hill station close to Shimla, known for the world’s highest cricket ground and the heritage hotel, Chail Palace, in the midst of pine and deodar trees. Surrounded by lush greenery and mesmerizing views from such a great height, known as a hiker’s paradise, Chail is bound to give a tourist a memorable travelling experience to a tourist. This place is famous for having the world’s highest cricket and polo grounds and has a luxurious resort situated on three hilltops. Once the summer capital of The Patiala, the palace has now been converted into a hotel and a tourist destination. This is the quintessential destination for tourists looking for a calm and relaxed vacation away from the more bustling and crowded tourist destinations in this state. Being the summer capital of the majestic kings of Patiala, the most famous place to visit in Chail is their palace which has now been converted into a heritage hotel. One must also visit the Chail Wildlife Sanctuary and the famous cricket ground.

Narkanda, surrounded by forests and woodlands, Narkanda is a quaint little town in Shimla district which is popular for skiing in winters.
Situated at a height of 9000 feet, this town attracts tourists for its ethereal natural beauty and its beautiful apple orchards. Surrounded by tropical forests and majestic hills, this is one place that tourists to Himachal Pradesh should not miss. Narkanda also has a lake called the Tannu Jabar Lake which is one of the most important tourist attraction here. There also exists a temple near the lake which is a must visit for all tourists and devotees coming here. Narkanda also has various trekking routes which all adventure-seekers should go for. Narkanda has a beautiful hill called Hatu Nag which one can trek up to. This hill offers a panoramic view of the town below and all adventure lovers travelling to this town should try it. One can also go for skiing during the winters.

Mashobra, is a lush green expanse in Himachal Pradesh, tucked away at a height of about 7700 feet, ensuring minimal human obstruction in the course of nature to provide you with the most pure and liberating experience of your lifetime.
Mashobra’s proximity to Shimla makes it a perfect alternative for people who are looking for a peaceful little hill-station. With just about enough resorts and enchanting natural bounty, come to Mashobra if you have a for a lazy weekend outing or a week-long vacation.

Sankat Mochan, A popular Hanuman temple is located here. We get an excellent view of Shimla from the temple. It can be reached by car or on foot.

Bilaspur, is a hill town near Shimla, famous for its forts and Gobind Sagar Lake, a man-made reservoir considered the lifeline of the district.
Bilaspur, India’s first planned hill station, is popularly known for its artificially made lake which is called the Gobind Sagar Lake on Sutlej River. It is a beautiful lake where one can rejuvenate and participate in water sports and fishing. Also, this lake provides water to the very famous Bhakra Nagal Dam. Bhakra Nagal Dam is the highest dam in India and it is also the highest straight gravity dam in the entire world. This dam located on the foothills of Himalaya offers spectacular views of the Gobind Sagar Lake. Apart from this, the road bridge on the Gobind Sagar Lake at Kandraur is highest in Asia.

Mandi, with a thick green cover of Pine and Deodar trees, and with sprawling tea plantations, the town of Mandi is situated at the junction of Kulu and Dharamshala. It is often referred to as ‘Varanasi of Hills’, or ‘Choti Kashi’. The town also has as many as 81 temples spread across its area.
Mandi, a popular commercial hub of Himachal Pradesh, is simply much more than that. Lying on the banks of River Beas, Mandi also displays some old palaces and exquisite form of colonial architecture. With a blend of warm and cold weather, the city housing the lakes and gardens provide for its travelers a breath of fresh air. Serving as a gateway to some famous valleys such as Kullu, Manali, Spiti and Lahaul, Mandi is must on your North India itinerary which never fails to enchant its visitors.

Kullu, a popular tourist destination generally coupled with Manali, is an open valley with panoramic views and majestic hills covered with Deodar and Pine trees. Kullu Situated at an altitude of 1230 meters, Kullu is a nature lover’s paradise. Abundant with lush greenery, pristine river streams and a wonderful climate, Kullu is known as one of the most popular tourist spots in Himachal Pradesh. Kullu is also popular as a sister town to Manali which is on much higher altitude and provides more scenic views. Typically travelers cover both Kullu and Manali trip in a single itinerary. Tourists coming to Kullu and Manali can indulge in a lot of adventure sports activities like river rafting, trekking, mountaineering etc. Set in the lap of nature, the picturesque landscape of this small town is mesmerizing. Kullu also has few important temples like the Raghunath Temple and Jagannathi Devi Temple. Apart from temples, the Pandoh Dam and Chandrakhani Pass are also must-visits in this region. Kullu is also used as the base town to reach Manikaran, Kasol, Malana, Bhunter and Rohtang Pass too. Kullu is famous for its own Pashmina Shawl Factory. Everyone stop here and bought genuine Pashmina garments from the factory. This Pashmina Shawl is also known as Kullu Shawl.

Bhuntar, is a part of Kullu district and it is typically used as a getaway to the towns of Kullu, Manali, Kasol and Manikaran and Kullu airport also is located within Bhuntar. Bhuntar is a quaint little town and there’s nothing too majestic about the natural beauty it has to offer, but it is your type of holiday destination if you appreciate less crowded spots and prefer lesser known spots to relax. Bhuntar has a quaint serenity to it and is considerable away from the maddening tourist crowds of the more famous places in Himanchal Pradesh. Surrounded by lush greenery, this town has temples with splendid architecture and high religious significance. Apart from a few temples a national park and a camping spot, Bhuntar has its silent old worldly charm to offer. Maybe not a tourist destination, but if you’re looking for a lone individual retreat, you may want to give it a chance.

Kasol, A destination bestowed with all of nature’s blessings, Kasol is known for its Israeli inhabitants, Parvati river trekking base-camp and Malana. A tourist hub for Israelis, with signs of various cafes and restaurants in Hebrew serving great food, of cuisines from around the world.
The snow clapped Himalayas to verdant landscape and clear blue sky adds a touch of mystery to the place. Nestled in the lap of Parvati valley alongside the streaming and gurgling Parvati River, this remote village is a blessing for adventure buffs, trekkers and backpackers. With pleasant climate all around the year and low population density, this wonderful place is all set to give you an unforgettable experience.

Raghunath Temple, in the 17th century, Raja Jagat Singh of Kullu committed a great mistake. To atone for the sin, he sent a senior courtier to Ayodhya for a statue of Lord Raghunath (Lord Rama). This temple was built by Raja Jagat Singh to house the image and even today, is greatly revered. Every year international fair Dussehra is celebrated with local deities in honour of lord Raghunath.

Manikaran, located in the Parvati Valley along the banks of river Parvati in the Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh, Manikaran is known as an important pilgrimage destination for both Sikhs as well as Hindus. The hot springs, religious tendencies, and beautiful surroundings attract a lot of people. A good number of temples and Gurudwara, Manikaran Sahib forms the religious pattern of the place.
The Gurudwara is believed to be sacred by the Sikhs and the Hindus, each having their own reasons behind their beliefs. According to Sikhs, Guru Nanak Ji performed several miracles here and Hindus believe that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati stayed here for almost 1100 years. This Gurudwara is also mentioned in the ‘Twelfth Guru Khalsa‘ by Giani Gian Sikh which makes it more pure and significant for its disciples. There are three hot springs where one can take a bath, one being inside the Gurudwara itself and the other two being privatized by the guesthouses. Different sections for men and women are made at the bathing place. The water in these springs contains Uranium, Sulphur and other Radioactive elements which are capable of curing tremendous diseases. The hot springs again have religious and spiritual beliefs connected to it. The spiritual and religious connectivity makes the hot springs holy and a great place for pilgrims to pay a visit. The water is hot enough to prepare food directly for thousands of devotees who visit to attain peace and spirituality. The water is auspicious and is boiling today as well.

Manali, at the northern end of the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh, is a hill station situated at a height of 2050m (6398 ft) in the Himalayas, is one of the most popular, beautiful and awe-inspiring hill stations in this country. Surrounded by majestic hills and woody forests, the quaint charm of Manali has captured the world’s attention and has become one of the most visited tourist destinations in India.

Situated on the Beas river (Vyaas in Hindi) and near its source, it is a popular tourist spot for Indians in summer and a magical, snow-covered place in winter. The pristine River Beas flows right through the town, creating a mesmerizing and spellbinding landscape. Nestled at one end of the Kullu Valley, Manali is a popular hill station with attractions such as the Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley nearby. Rohtang Pass is covered with snow throughout the year and is a good experience in itself. This is the ideal place for tourists looking to unwind and rejuvenate in the lap of nature, for there is no place in the country more vibrant and charming as Manali.

This town also has a multitude of options for tourists looking for adventurous activities like trekking, paragliding, skiing, zorbing, white water rafting etc. Besides adventurous activities, Manali also has a lot of temples which all tourists and devotees love to visit including the Raghunath Temple and Jagannath Dev Temple being one of the important ones. Hadimba Temple, a 14th-century temple is famous for its wooden architecture and for its religious values. Manali is also used as the base town for the Manali-Leh highway and Leh is around 479 km from here. Lahaul and Spiti district can also be accessed from here during the summers using the same highway.

How To Reach

By Train, Manali is 570km from Delhi, the capital of India, and there are buses connecting the town with Delhi, Shimla, Dharamshala & Leh. The approximate travel time from Delhi to Manali is 14 hours, from Ambala to Manali is 10 hours, from Chandigarh is 08 hours and from Kullu to Manali is 3 hours. If hiring a private car, ensure that the driver has adequate experience driving in hilly regions and does not have the habit of drinking alcohol. Also make sure the driver has made the trip at least once before and knows all the routes well. Also, you need to make sure that the driver is habituated to long, continuous driving routines.

By Road, The nearest and major Broad Gauge Railway Station is Delhi & Chandigarh / Kalka. From there tourist need to travel by road only to reach Manali.

By Air, The nearest airport is Bhuntar (Kullu) Airport, 50km from Manali, 10km from Kullu, it’s about two hours away from Manali. However the services is very irregular.

What To See

Old Manali, at a distance of 3km northwest of Manali is Old Manali, famous for its orchards and old guesthouses. Calm and serene surroundings coupled with the sound of Beas river is a very peaceful experience. There is ruined fort here by the name of Manaligarh. There is also the Manu Maharishi Temple, dedicated to sage Manu.

Hadimba Temple, is an ancient cave temple dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, who was a character in the Indian epic, Mahābhārata. The temple is surrounded by a beautiful cedar forest (Dhungri Van Vihar) at the foot of the Himālayas. The sanctuary is built over a huge rock jutting out of the ground, which was worshipped as an image of the deity. The structure was built in the year 1553. If you’re walking to the temple you can take a short cut up the hill through the woods instead of walking along the road.

Vashist Hot Water Springs and Temple, situated around 3km from Manali, across the Beas river is Vashist, a small village with natural sulphur springs. Modern bath houses, with Turkish-style showers, have the hot water piped into them for the convenience of the visitors who come here to benefit from the medicinal properties. Vaishisht, also boasts a pair of old stone temples, opposite each other above the main square. Dedicated to the local patron saint Vashista, the smaller of the two opens on to a partially covered courtyard, and is adorned with elaborate woodcarvings.

Monasteries, Manali is known for its shiny gompas or Buddhist monasteries. One of the monastery is located at the central of the town and near the Mall. Manali Gompa was built in 1960. It is one of the most important places for Buddhists. Buddhists come to this place from Ladakh, Tibet, Spiti, Lahul and Kinnaur. Manali Gompa is world famous for a large statue of Buddha and for its wall paintings. It is maintained by donations from the local community and by sale of hand-woven carpets in the temple workshop.

Maa Sharvari Temple, is represented as KULDEVI of the kings of Kullu in early times and is worshipped as a manifestation of Durga, and image of the goddess is also enshrined here. The divinity is popularly worshipped throughout the region during the festivals and the Goddess is transported to Kullu to visit the Lord Raghunath Jii during Dussehra festival. This temple is on the top of above the Shaminallah village, which is around 5km from Manali, accross the Beas river on the left bank on the way to Naggar Casttle.

Kalath Hot Water Springs, situated around 6.5 Km downstream from Manali, natural sulfurous water flows from the bowels of earth, public bath areas and private bath areas are available.

Gauri Shankar Temple at DASHAL village(700m from Sarsai ) on the main left bank Kullu Manali Highway. It is a 12th century protected monument. Also see lush green apple orchards,play with water stream out there

Naggar, located in the Kullu district, this quaint little town is typically covered with Kullu and is famous for its stunning natural beauty. Set against the back drop of majestic hills and the clear and pristine Beas River, this tourist destination is ideal for people who want to relax and rejuvenate by living in the lap of nature. One can also indulge in trekking and camping here. Famous for being in abundance of unexplored natural beauty, the town of Naggar also has a castle, which has now been converted into a heritage hotel which one can visit. Naggar also has a famous folk art museum and a hot water spring that tourists shouldn’t forget to visit. Bijli Mahadev temple, about 20km from Naggar, is also worth visiting. The picturesque town of Naggar draws tourists looking to revel in green surroundings, go trekking or be a little more adventurous and camping out.

Krishna Temple at Thava, located further proceed from Naggar Castle and do a small trek of half an hour through dense pine and deodar forest to reach the beautiful Krishna Temple. With hardly any tourists around, this place is magical.

Jana Water Falls, 15km from Naggar and 35km from Manali, at Zana Village, beautiful Water Fall is worth visiting. The valley provides amazing views. There is one water fall on the road side and two other water falls which are not much explored by tourists and are amazing. Moreover Traditional Himachali food is available here at small hut like shops.

Jagatsukh, the former capital of Manali, has a few nice temples done in Shikhara tyle. You can visit them while travelling to Naggar.

Rohtang Pass, at an altitude of 3980m (13,058 ft) above sea level, is one of the most attractive & adventure tourist site where it can be cold even on a summer day. Located at a distance of just 51 kilometres from the main town, Rohtang Pass can be reached only by road. It is the highest point on the Manali-Keylong road and provides a wide panoramic view of mountains rising far above clouds, which is truly breath taking. As the vehicle climbs higher on the Manali- Keylong road, the beauty of the landscape around will leave you awestruck.  The pass is an experience of nature in one of its rawest forms possible, among mountain peaks covered with snow, breathtaking view and magnificent and sprawling landscapes and views. The magnificence of the white landscape and sonorous silence is a mesmerizing thing worth experiencing. Close by is a small lake called Dassaur Lake. Beas Kund, the source of river Beas, is also nearby. In winter, the road of Rothang Pass is closed. Beas Kund, an igloo shaped temple, on top has a spring which is the origin of River Beas.

Owing to its splendid natural beauty, Rohtang Pass is a favorite among the community of film directors. Many blockbusters ranging from ‘Jab We Met’ to ‘Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani’ have been shot here.

In order to travel up to or beyond Rohtang, a mandatory Rohtang Pass permit is required by all visitors. You will need to show a confirmation voucher or a proof of hotel booking at one of your destinations. The pass costs INR 500 per head with an additional INR 50 which is charged as a congestion fee that is imposed by the National Green Tribunal on all the vehicles that travel here. The permits are also of two kinds, one is for up to Rohtang Pass only while the other is for travelling beyond this point. Online permit for travelling to Rohtang is available and can be booked here. In case you want to book your permits offline, you can do so on a first-come-first-serve basis from the Tourist and Information centre on all days from 10:00 AM  to 8:00 PM. You can either take a four wheeler or bike your way to the pass as well. Important to note that the road to Rohtang Pass is closed off at Manali bridge, on all Tuesdays 09:00-18:00 for carrying out road widening work and repairs. If you are able to leave early, before 09:00, you can avoid the traffic rush (found on all other days).

Rohtang is near ideal for trekkers. The trails here are challenging and marked by glaciers, around waterfalls, pointed peaks, a breathtaking view of the surrounding and chilling cold. The 117 km long Manali- Lahaul pass is one of the most sought after treks, with Sulphur springs, Bhrigu lake and a challenging path. The other famous treks are from Gulaba to Bhrigu Lake, Batal to Rohtang and Jalori pass.

An experience of the snow can never be complete without a sledge ride, which involves sliding through the snow in a wooden toboggan. Another thrilling activity that can be pursued here would be mountain biking where you ride your mountain bikes off the regular course and into the lesser taken routes. It can get a bit rough, so you must take care in case you are planning on pursuing this activity. You can try your hand at skiing and try a drop at the Rohtang Pass as well, where again you slide down a slope of snow whilst using the appropriate equipment. Gear for all of these activities is available for a reasonable rent, so do not miss out on this opportunity. Also, photography enthusiasts and nature lovers can never have enough of this place.

Rahala waterfalls, about 16km from Manali at the start of the climb to the Rohtang Pass, are the beautiful Rahalla Falls at an altitude of 2,501m.

Rozy Falls, On the way to Rohtang amazing water fall worth seeing. this water fall looks amazing between the high hills.

Kothi, is located at the bottom of Rohatang Pass. It is a beautiful and photographic village where tourists can capture different thrilling views of the deep gorge through which the Beas swiftly runs. This is an amazing place to experience the natural beauty of high altitude mountain.

Nehru Kund, is located at the distance of around 6 km from Manali. It is one of the natural springs of natural water in India. Nehru Kund is named after the late Prime Minister Jawar Lal Nehru. Nehru used to drink water from this Kund, while his journey to Manali. Nehru Kund is on the Manali-Keylong road, about 6 kms from Manali.

Jogini Falls, situated about a 2km trek from Vashisth Temple. Going to the top of the falls would need a guide and quite a bit of trekking, but if you wish you could just keep asking for directions from Vashishth temple and reach the first level of the falls.

Solang Valley, popularly known as Snow Point, is 13 km northwest of Manali and famous for its 300m ski lift. It is a picturesque spot and offers splendid views of glaciers and the snow-capped mountains. A huge numbers of tourists enjoy the valley every year. A favorite spot for adventure enthusiasts, Parachuting to paragliding, horse riding to driving mini open jeeps specially available for tourists of all age groups, Solang is ready to welcome all.

During winters, as the valley is covered with snow, skiing is a popular sport here, with training institutes and trainers located in the valley to supervise skiers and train beginners. As the snow melts, skiing is taken over by zorbing. Another popular attraction of the valley, taking advantage of the slopes of the valley, you are likely to spot a huge transparent ball with mostly two people inside it rolling down the slope during summers, it is as much fun as it looks like. One of the most vibrant and enjoyable places in Manali, there is no way one can possibly miss this valley, while here.

Solang Valley is easily every adventure lover’s paradise. There are a wide variety of activities and adventure sports here, where you can really challenge the daredevil in you. Among these, paragliding is perhaps the most pursued activity here. In this sport, you are supposed to jump from a higher altitude such that a parachute opens up and allows to cover some horizontal distance as well. Here at the Solang Valley, ample arrangements are in place such that both freshers and experienced para-gliders can enjoy this activity. Best time for paragliding varies according to seasons. In case you are planning to visit from January to May or October to December, then 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM is the time slot for paragliding. This activity is generally shut down during the monsoon season due to unfavorable weather conditions. Cost of paragliding varies from INR 600 – 1800. It is an extremely thrilling activity which will push you to your limits.

Another activity you can try out here is the skiing, where you are allowed to slide down a slope covered with snow with the appropriate gear and supervision. If you catch the sight of people rolling away down the valley whilst in a giant transparent ball, you have just witnessed zorbing! Zorbing can be pursued here at a price of INR 500 per head and is a definite must try. There are overhead cable car rides available as well, which gives a breathtaking view of the entire valley.

Apart from the wide variety of adventure sports available here, there are swings at the base of the valley for the kids. Other leisure activities like Horse riding, fancy photography are the other attractions that keep tourists engaged and maintains a fair-like the atmosphere in the valley throughout the day.

The crystal snow in Solang starts making an appearance towards the beginning of October. With the onset of core winter months, the temperature can drop down to -1 °C with nights being especially chilly, so carrying plenty of woolens is advisable. December to January is the peak time for snowfall and is the ideal time to enjoy adventure sports.

Best Time To Visit Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh in summer – From May & June, temperatures ranges from 15°C to 25°C. The place enjoys a pleasant weather and thus can be explored easily.

Himachal Pradesh in Monsoon – From July to September, in monsoon, rainfall started. Temperatures ranges from 15°C to 25°C. Forest and hills are full of green. Some of the place may close due to landslide. But still tourist can enjoy the weather.

Himachal Pradesh in Pre Winter – From October till Mid December, is one of perfect time for safe & nature lover traveler. After rainy season hills are full of green color. Weather is pleasant. Temperatures ranges from 10°C to 20°C. Most of the times sky is clear.

Himachal Pradesh in winter – From Mid December till April, winter is much colder here, with temperature ranging between 0°C and 10°. This is the perfect time for snow lovers. Due to heavy snowfalls some roads may not accessible. If you are planning to come in this season don’t plan with a tight schedule, keep some buffer day.

Please visit and let us give the opportunity to serve you and make your vacation memorable one……..

Green Himachal, Clean Himachal & Plastic Free Himachal

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Aksai Chin is one of the disputed border areas between China and India. It is administered by China as part of Hotan County but is also claimed by India as a part of the Ladakh region of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. In 1962, China and India fought a brief war over Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh, but in 1993 and 1996 the two countries signed agreements to respect the Line of Actual Control.

In the past Ladakh gained importance from its strategic location at the crossroads of important trade routes, but since the Chinese authorities closed the borders with Tibet and Central Asia in the 1960s, international trade has dwindled except for tourism. Since 1974, the Government of India has successfully encouraged tourism in Ladakh. Himalayan Destination is one of the best Leh Ladakh tour and travel operator. They have accomplished number of tours in Leh ladakh. Most of the customers are happy with the packages and shared their happy experiences with 5 star.

Visitors may explore the mystery of beauty of Leh – Ladakh in  different ways . To fulfill the aspiration of Leh – Ladakh trip , advanced & justified route plans will be helpful for the travelers . Here some of the route plan to explore Leh Ladakh from experience diary.

• Srinagar to Leh and on the way
• Leh City and Sight scene around
• Nubra Valley and around journey from Leh
• Pangong TSO/ Pangong Lake around Sightseeing
• Haneley / Changthang and around Sightseeing
• Tsomoriri and around sightseeing
• Journey to Manali and around Sightseeing

THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT LADAKH

Name of the few high passes you may cover in your Ladakh trip

Ladakh is called “The Land of High Passes”. Few are as follows –

• Zojila Pass, at an altitude of 11575 ft, the first pass you have to cross (considering start from Srinagar). It is one of the famous passes of Srinagar-Leh Highway connecting Ladakh to Kashmir.
  • Namki La Pass, at an altitude of 12516 ft, the second pass you have to cross. It came on the second day when we moved from Kargil towards Leh.
  • Fotu La Pass, at an altitude of 13478 ft, the third pass you have to cross. As you moved further from Namki La pass towards Lamayuru, we reached the highest point on Srinagar-Leh Highway.
  • Khardung La Pass, at an altitude of 18379 ft, claimed World Highest Motorable Road. But now a day it is completely wrong information. But still it is one of the highest motorable pass in the world. It is situated in between Leh and Khardung village.
  • Wari La Pass, at an altitude of 17225 ft, is connecting the direct route from Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso. The climb to Wari La was so desolated that one can feel completely disconnected to this civilized world while traversing the path.
  • Chang La Pass, at an altitude of 17585 ft, located after Wari La towards Sakti Village, commonly a myth being the third highest motorable road. However, climb to Chang La much more than better Khardung La any day as per our openion.
  • Rezang La Pass, at an altitude of 14305 ft, has a war memorial was built to commemorate Indian Army for the victory of Sino-Indian War in 1962. Located South-East of Chusul Valley.
  • Tsaga La Pass / Chagga La Pass, at an altitude of 15207 ft, is located once we crossed Chusul and went towards Tsaga Village.
  • Thit Zarbo La Pass, at an altitude of 17103 ft, is situated in between Hanley to Nyoma via Nidar covering twin lakes of Kyon Tso. First you have to cross Kyon Tso1 (locally called Ryul Tso) and then over Kyon Tso 2 (locally called Chiling Tso), you ascend towards Thit Zarbo La Pass.
  • Nurpa La Pass or Thato La Pass, at an altitude of 15797 ft, from there you can see the first view of Yaye Tso Lake (heart shaped lake) and you can cover this from Mahe
  • Hora La Pass, at an altitude of 16195 ft, from there you can see the complete view of Yaye Tso Lake (heart shaped lake) and you can cover this from Mahe and after Nurpa La Pass or Thato La Pass.
  • Namashang La Pass, at an altitude of 17389 ft, it is located on the way to Tsomoriri from Chumathang and just before of Kiagar Tso.
  • Polakongka La Pass, at an altitude of 16293 ft, it is located on the way to Tso Kar from Sumur (56 km before of Tsomoriri, from where route of Tso Kar diversified).
  • Taglang La Pass, at an altitude of 17481 ft, is the first and the highest mountain pass on Leh-Manali highway and fifth on the way from Manali to Leh road trip. located 19 fm from Debring towards Leh.
  • Lachulung La Pass, at an altitude of 16616 ft, is located on the Manali-Leh Highway, around 27 km away from Pang towards Manali. It is the Second on the way pass from Leh to Manali and forth on the way from Manali to Leh road trip.
  • Nakee La Pass, at an altitude of 15547 ft, is located on the Manali-Leh Highway, around 28 km away from Lachung La Pass towards Manali. It is the third on the way pass from Leh to Manali and third on the way from Manali to Leh road trip.
  • Baralacha La Pass, at an altitude of 15912 ft, is located on the Manali-Leh Highway, around 16 km away from Keylong Sarai towards Manali. It is the forth on the way pass from Leh to Manali and second on the way from Manali to Leh road trip.
  • Rohtang Pass, at an altitude of 13058 ft, it is located 51 km before Manali from Leh. It is the fifth on the way pass from Leh to Manali and first on the way from Manali to Leh road trip.

List of World’s Highest Motorable Roads / Passes

If you are into adventure Travel, especially in the mountains, then you must have heard of terms like Highest Lakes in the world, Highest Motorable Mountain Passes in the world, Highest Motorable Roads in the world, etc.

A road or pass where an average skilled local citizen / civilian driver or rider, with permits from army if required, can take an SUV car having high ground clearance (4×2 or 4×4) or an average powered motorbike irrespective of the fact whether the road is carpeted / tarred or unpaved / dirt track as long as such a vehicle can be driven and maintain decent connectivity.

Few Highest passes with their altitude are as follows –

1. Umling La / Umlingla Pass, Ladakh, India, at an altitude 19300 ft. In 2017, BRO has built and opened the world’s highest road over Umlingla pass or Umling La connecting Chisumle and Demchok villages. Umling La pass is about 105 KMs from Hanley Village and about 235 KMs from Leh.
   2. Road to Uturuncu Potosi, Bolivia, at an altitude of 18953 ft. The road to Uturuncu above col is situated in Potosi, Bolivia which was used to be considered as the world’s highest motorable road at a staggering altitude until India opened up Umlingla.
   3. A Road uphill Mana Pass or Dungri La, Uttarakhand, India, at an altitude of 18406 ft. Mana Pass or Dungri La is situated at the border between Tibet and India in the state of Uttarakhand. Civilians, though native to India, with prior permits from the army can travel up there.
   4. Marsimek La or Marsimik La, Ladakh, India, at an altitude of 18313 ft. Marsimek La or Marsimik La is situated in Ladakh, India where civilians, though native to India, with prior permits from the army can travel.
   5. Semo La, Central Tibet, at an altitude of 18258 ft. Semo La is situated in the central part of Tibet. According to wiki link of Semo La, “Travellers use this route as an alternative access route to western Tibet and Mount Kailash, especially when mud makes access by the more southern route difficult“.
   6. Photi La, Ladakh, India, at an altitude of 18124 ft. The latest unknown entry into one of the world’s highest motorable passes or roads is Photi La pass which is situated in India – Ladakh region, about 30 km from an amazingly beautiful place on this earth called Hanley.
   7. Dongkha La or Donkia La Pass, North Sikkim, India, at an altitude of 17999 ft. Dongkha La or Donkia Pass located in North Sikkim having Tso Lhamo Lake or Cholamu Lake (14th Highest lake in the world) very near to it.
   8. Kaksang La, Ladakh, India, at n altitude of 17841 ft. Kaksang La pass is situated in Changthang region of Ladakh on the route from Mahe to Nama to Chusul to Pangong Tso when going over Hora La Pass that comes first as you start ascending from Mahe ahead of Chumathang near Tso Moriri.
   9. Suge La, West of Lhasa, Tibet, at an altitude of 17815 ft. Suge La is situated in Tibet about 110 KMs northwest of Lhasa. The road to the top is in decent condition and after reaching the top, you get an amazing view of Chomo Gangtse Mountain which boasts an altitude of 23124 ft.
   10. Chang La, Ladakh, India, at an altitude of 17586 ft. You will be in a surprise to know that Changla pass is higher than Khardung La too as per the readings in compliance to SRTM or with modern age GPS systems.
   11. Khardung La, Ladakh, India, at an altitude of 17582 ft. Number eleven on the list is the falsely claimed highest motorable pass in the world named Khardung La pass, situated in Ladakh, India.
   12. Taglang La or Tanglang La, Ladakh, India, at an altitude of 17481 ft. Second last on the list is Taglang La or Tanglang La pass which is located in Ladakh, India. It comes on one of the most beautiful & the adventurous road of the world that is Manali – Leh Highway.
   13. Wari La, Ladakh, India, at an altitude of 17428 ft. Last on the list is a desolated pass situated in Ladakh, India which is connecting the direct route from Nubra Valley to Pangong Tso and falls under Nubra Valley. The route to Wari La is quite desolate.

Please visit and let us give the opportunity to serve you and make your vacation memorable one……..

Clean Ladakh & Plastic Free Ladakh

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JAIPUR is the capital of Rajasthan . As well as it is the largest city in the princely state of Rajasthan. Kachwaha Rajput Ruler Sawai Jaisingh II founded this city in 1727 .   Peoples recognize Jaipur as ‘Pink City of India’  due to the distinctive saffron or pink colored  buildings. The planning of the city was done according to the Vedic Vastu Shastra (Indian architecture). The well planned streets and artistic architecture make it one of the top preferred tourist locations.

In the year of 2008 Conde Nast Traveller Readers Choice Survey declared  Jaipur was ranked #7 of the best places to visit in Asia. A lots of forts, monuments, temples, Gardens, museums and vast market places of Jaipur attract tourists from all around the world .

AJMER is the Heart of Rajasthan . It is located at a distance of 14 kms. from Pushkar This city is famous for Ajmer Sharif Dargah of saint Muin-ud-din-chisti .This city has a significant value for Islamic pilgrimage .In Ajmer there is no existence of  religious discrimination . Ajmer is a renowned learning center . Amazing golden Jain temple is situated in Ajmer . In 2015,  HRIDAY – Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana scheme of Government of India selected Ajmer as heritage site .

PUSHKAR means a blue lotus flower in Sanskrit . This is the one of the most ancient cities in India. It is a part of Ajmer district . Pushkar is  the king of pilgrimage sites in India. The sacred Pushkar Lake is the heart of Pushkar city . About Pushkar lake, myth says it  was created by the tears of Lord Brahma .Pushkar is home to the only temple of Brahma in the world . A journey to Pushkar is the ultimate pilgrimage to the Hindus for attaining salvation . The water of the lake is considered as holy water to Hindus .Camel fair in Pushkar is another attraction to the visitors .

UDAIPUR: Maharana Udaisingh II founded Udaipur as his capital .It was the second capital of Mewar . It has an another amezing identification i.e   the Venice of the East . Picturesque palaces of this city   exemplify the finesse of Rajputana Style architecture. Lush green hills of Aravalli is the home of Udaipur . Jaisamand lake of Udaipur is the second largest man made sweet water lake in Asia . The architectural beauty & grandeur of Monsoon Palace increase the reputation of this city . The ten day Shilpgram festival attracts a large no. of people .

JODHPUR :  Rathore Rajput Ruler, Rao Jodha Singh of Marwar founded this city in 1459 . This is the second largest city in Rajasthan . Blue city is it’s another identity .  It is  the most important city of western Rajasthan .Luni river is very close to this city . It lies only at a distance of 250 kilometers from the Indo-Pakistan border. An Air force college , the University of Jodhpur , a Medical College occupy substantial part of Jodhpur . Mehrangarh Fort contains Maharaja’s Palace , historical museum . Jodhpur’s other noteworthy buildings are Umaid Bhawan Palace , the white marble Jaswant Thada etc.

JAISALMER :Golden City is the prestigious identity of Jaisalmer .  Jaisalmer lies in the heart of the Thar Desert. was The Bhati Rajput ruler Maharawal Jaisal Singh founded this city in 1156 Ad .  It  gets its name from the golden sands of the Thar Desert.  Golden colored sand stones are  used in the city’s architecture. Unique & magnificent architecture and the various arts and crafts of this city attract tourists .  This city’s most important landmark is Jaisalmer Fort or Sonar Quila .

Visit during the months of November and December and tourists will enjoy this castle city to its fullest.

BIKANER : This city is situated in the northern part of Rajasthan .  Rathore Rajput Ruler Rao Bika. Rao Bika founded this city in the year of 1488 .Bikaner still shows opulence through it’s intricate palaces , forts & temples . The world’s best riding camels found in this city . Camel City is it’s another name . This city is famous for the hosting international camel festival . Desert safari is the major attraction to the tourists .

The various arts and crafts of this place are also unique, especially the intricately carved windowpanes called Jharokha. This is a must visit spot if you want to experience the authentic taste of Rajasthani cuisines. The various fairs held in Bikaner also attract a huge no. of visitors from all around India and the world.

MOUNT ABU : This is the only hill station in the state of Rajasthan. Mount Abu is located at the Aravalli mountain range and is a part of the Sirohi District of Rajasthan. Green forest , serene lake , picturesque waterfalls attract tourists to enjoy this place . Mount Abu is the home to Jain religion .  Mount Abu was known as the Arbhuda Mountain, which has been mentioned in the Hindu Epic Mahabharata. As per the epic Mount Abu is the place where the Great Sage Vasistha retired. cDilwara Temple , sun set point , Nakki Lake , Guru Sikhar etc. are the most important attraction to the visitors .

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Lachung is a very small region , as if a hamlet.  It is located on the banks of the Lachung river, Lachung is that the absolute best destination for people who extremely love nature. Lachung means the tiny pass. it’s near to the Xizang border and provide picturesque view  to the tourists . Lachung is known for its fruit production…apples, peaches and apricots area unit found in abundance there.

The Lachung Gompa / Lachung religious residence is one in all the first attractions of this tiny hamlet. This ancient religious residence was built in 1880 and it lies amidst a luscious grove. you’ll simply acknowledge the religious residence because it has 2 identical metal dragons and big prayer wheels. strive walking through the village to the monastery… it’s a brief walk and you get to visualize several sights on the method.

Little Yumthang valley is famous for it’s wonderful sceneries. Yumthang is  at elevation of 11,800 ft and twenty eight Km.from Lachung. The valley of Yumthang is accepted for its hot Springs and  gorgeous Rhododendrons. Yumthang is confined by mountains wherever the timberline ends. A little tributary of Teesta flows besides Yumthang valley and there’s a hot spring with medicinal properties . En-route to Yumthang valley visitors may see numerous natural streams together with some glorious views of peaks of Pauhunri and Shundi. In Late March to Late Apr the valley looks like heaven.  During this season Rhododendrons, herbaceous plant and lots of alternative Alpine Flowers are completely bloomed . During the winter months, Yumthang is covered with snow  and also the snow clad mountains adding to the real beauty.

Yumesamdong or zero point  is located at  twenty six kilometers North from the Yumthang valley. Impressive views of chain of mountains with snow clapped attracts the tourists to enjoy Zero Point  .Snow is found here during the month of May .  Tungabhadra Shiva temple is one among the foremost magnificent place where always tranquility exist .

Singhba rhododendron Sanctuary is situated on the way to Yumthang from Lachung. Total space of this sanctuary is over 43sq. km. This Sanctuary is the home of forty two types of  rhododendron. This Sanctuary is additionally referred to as the valley of Flowers of North Sikkim. Visitors always get the assistance of  trained guide to enjoy this place. In Late March to Late April the valley gets back it’s beauty because Rhododendrons, herb and lots of alternative Alpine Flowers are fully bloomed.

Phuni valley, is one  of the loveliest undiscovered adventurous destinations in Northern Republic of India, Phuni is simply twenty kilometer far away from Lachung.The snow covers Phuni in all winter, beautiful mild slopes & an altitude of 11,500 feet makes it a beautiful destination for ski lovers across the world. The SMA (Sikkim climb Association) organizes Ice athletics Festivals at Phuni each March for fifteen days to popularize this sport among tourists.

Katao is one of the most important popular visited place at North Sikkim,located at an altitude of nearly 15000 ft. Staying at Lachung for the visitors ,it is easy to visit Katao .  A military check-post is nearby. Katao Valley is around 24 kilometers from Lachung. The trip to Katao is not in the standard packages of North Sikkim or Lachung tour. Guest has to pay additional cost for visit the place. Please note that it is quite difficult to do Yumthang Valley, Zero Point & Katao in a same day and return back to Gangtok. If someone have not much time to spend in Lachung and also have interest for Katao, Yumthang & Zero Point, then only one solution as follows. One has to stay or reach Lachung on the previous night. Next day morning first visit Katao then back to Lachung and take breakfast then proceed towards Yumthang Valley & Yumesamdong / Zero Point and return to Gangtok. Infrastructure is poor due to the remoteness of the area. Sikkim is very close to Peoples Republic of China’s border and the Defense establishment tends to keep things under a very tight leash. Hence it is very difficult to get individual permissions for visiting these areas. As long as you move in groups (More than one guest) under the guidance of tour operators its manageable.

Lachen means broad Pass with full of stunning scenic beauty. Lachen become a tourist’s destination like Lachung  therefore Lachen is containing incredible natural beauty .  In summers the annual Yak race takes place here and that’s a perfect time to go to. The Lachen Gompa / Lachen cloister presides over this tiny hamlet and luscious forests . Snow clad peaks are simply visible here and during the spring many sorts of flowers make the place colourful .

Thangu is at elevation of  14,000 ft.To reach this place from Lachen , by road the time will be taken 3hours .it’s a tiny Village. Thangu valley is a broad natural depression at the junction of Thangu Chu, Chopta Chu and Lassur Chu. In the early Summer months visitors could be fascinated by so many types of Rhododendrons, herbaceous plants .  Alpine flowers are fully bloomed. during the winter you’ll be able to play within the snow or maybe beat frozen rivers.

Chopta valley is popularly reffered to as mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand .  it’s rather a barren and austere landscape that appears exotic.It is the all-year destination .  During the spring the valley becomes colorful. Chopta valley is base for the acute high altitude trek. Rare endemic species of flora and fauna are found in Chopta valley .  The colourful  Monals, Flycatchers, Whistling Thrush, Warblers are some of the attractive birds found here .

Kala Patthar is an offbeat destination in North Sikkim. It is located at an elevation of 16942 foot. it’s a notable landmark  on the south ridge of Pumori in the Nepalese Himalayas above Gorakshep.This place is surrounded by black rocks. There is no habitation can be seen in this region because of unfavourable climatic condition.  Though it’s not a proper mountain, with  10 m (33 ft) The views of Mt. Everest, mountain peak and Changtse ar spectacular from Kala Patthar and there are glimpses of the northern flank and summit of Mt. Lhotse. would like special permission for visit this place. Less traveler visit this place thanks to allow inaccessibility.

Gurudongmar is the highest pristine lake in the world. It is located at an elevation of 17800ft . The local belief is once Guru Padmasambhava who  visited here in the eighth century. The revered Nanak had  visited here in the fifteenth century, for that reason this  lake is treated as a holy lake.  The lake is whitish in color throughout the year and it’s believed that Guru Padmasambhava touched the lake while he visited Tibet from this space via Thangu. The Gurundongmar Lake is sustained by glaciers & as well as additional supply is coming from Teesta stream.   Gurudongmar is thronged with Blue Sheep, Yaks and alternative species of life.

Below 10 years and above 60 years people can’t go to Gurudongmar Lake. They can  take rest at the place en-route of Gurudongmar Lake named Cafeteria 15000 / 15000 Cafeteria (just 15 km before of Gurudongmar Lake) and known as World Highest Cafeteria.

THINGS TO REMEMBER BEFORE PLANNING TO NORTH SIKKIM

Note that the majority of the place of North Sikkim settled in high altitude and therefore the air has rarefied oxygen levels .Therefore you would like to acclimatise yourself at base camps &gradually increase your night keep. Avoid long stretches of travel that involve forceful shifts within the oxygen levels in air. Avoid an excessive amount of physical activity for very long time & specially notice on your kids and senior persons. you furthermore might have to be compelled to travel during a durable vehicle sort of a auto because the roads are largely rocky and filled with sharp turns. It is need to hire  a decent driver and vehicle from a acknowledged Tour & travel agency for exploring North Sikkim .

No foreigners are allowed to the Yumesomdong  / Zero Pint, Mt. Katao, Lachen & Gurudongmar Lake. But they can enjoy only at Lachung and Yumthang Valley. 

Best time to visit

North Sikkim can’t accessible for 365 days. So you have to considered about the that before planning to visit North Sikkim.

In January – February

From January to February the negative temperature exists in the mountainous region of North Sikkim .  Valley’s weather is pleasant and sunny with clear views of the incredible Himalaya. Due to negative temperatures, gradually no.of tourists are decreased during that period .

High altitude area specially Lachen, Gurudongmar Lake, Yumthang Valley roads are covered with  heavy snow. Problem to get permit on this area. Night stay option may available at Lachung but other parts are may be not accessible. It is ideal for those who want to enjoy chilled  weather and heavy snow. Night temperature mostly goes to negative. Travelers may arrested by snow in this time in high altitude. Travelers may visit in this time with sufficient buffer day. We will not suggest to visit North Sikkim in this season.

In March

Snow melting starts from March in North . Temperature mostly remain negative at night & mountains remain covered with ice . The valleys are warmer and sunny with clear views of the incredible Himalaya.Due to negative temperatures, gradually no.of tourists are decreased during that period . Night stay at Lachen and sightseeing of Gurudongmar, Yumthang Valley & Yumesomdong / Zero Point mostly not possible due to road bockage with heavy snow and permits may not available. Generally you can get permit for nightstay at Lachung and sightseeing towards Mt. Katao in this season. You may not access entire NorthSikkim and also not suggest to visit North Sikkim in this season.

In April – May

From April to May is the ideal time to travel this region .  Weather is pleasant and the valleys are abundant in nature; especially as all the flowers start to bloom. Early April witnesses the Rhododendron, so mountain slopes become colorful. It is ideal for photographers and nature lovers. All roads are mostly open and visitors can get permit easily to visit remote areas also.

In June – September

From June to September monsoon season is existed  in Sikkim. But monsoon comes in this area little late so any one can visit till mid June. Although showers can occur at night without spoiling daytime explorations, conditions in monsoon aren’t ideal for trekking. Sightseeing is still possible – need to be  prepared with a raincoat. Views are best in the mornings . It is the best time for mountain shower lover. But landslide can be  occurred any time in a day . Need to make a suitable plan to enjoy this place .

In October

Most of the tourists (around 80%) want to visit North Sikkim in October, so plan well in advance to ensure you get your preferred accommodation and good value flights. It is ideal for enjoying stunning views and pleasant temperatures. Expected temperature will be around 25°C in the sun, but the lower temperature exists in the evenings and at higher altitudes. All roads are mostly open and visitors can get permit easily to visit remote areas also.

In November

It is ideal time for the skilled photographer. So don’t hesitate to plan in this season. This season is famous for mostly clear blue sky, anyone can spend their memorable time with your love one. All roads are mostly open and traveller can get permit easily to visit remote areas also.

In December

On December the negative temperature exists in the mountainous region of North Sikkim The valleys are warmer and sunny with clear views of the incredible Himalaya. Due to negative temperatures, gradually no.of tourists are decreased during that period . But from 20th to 31st December North Sikkim mostly overcrowded. Anyone can arrested any time at this time in high altitude & remote areas. due to sudden snow falls. We will not suggest sightseeing of Gurudongmar lake at this time.

Please note that several parts of North Sikkim falls under protected area and you need a special permit / Inner Line Permit (ILP) and suggested go with a trusted / reliable Tour & Travel agencies only.

Please visit and let us give the opportunity to serve you and make your vacation memorable one……..

Green Sikkim, Clean Sikkim & Plastic Free Sikkim

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The northern region of Bhutan consists of an arc of Eastern Himalayan alpine shrub and meadows reaching up to glaciated mountain peaks with an extremely cold climate at the highest elevations. Most peaks in the north are over 7,000 m (23,000 ft) above sea level; the highest point in Bhutan is Gangkhar Puensumat at 7,570 metres (24,840 ft), which has the distinction of being the highest unclimbed mountain in the world. The lowest point, at 98 m (322 ft), is in the valley of Drangme Chhu, where the river crosses the border with India. Watered by snow-fed rivers, alpine valleys in this region provide pasture for livestock, tended by a sparse population of migratory shepherds.

The Black Mountains in the central region of Bhutan form a watershed between two major river systems: the Mo Chhu and the Drangme Chhu. Peaks in the Black Mountains range between 1,500 and 4,925 m (4,921 and 16,158 ft) above sea level, and fast-flowing rivers have carved out deep gorges in the lower mountain areas. The forests of the central Bhutan mountains consist of Eastern Himalayan subalpine conifer forests in higher elevations and Eastern Himalayan broadleaf forests in lower elevations. Woodlands of the central region provide most of Bhutan’s forest production. The Torsa, Raidak, Sankosh and Manas are the main rivers of Bhutan, flowing through this region. Most of the population lives in the central highlands.

In the south, the Shiwalik Hills are covered with dense Himalayan subtropical broadleaf forests, alluvial lowland river valleys, and mountains up to around 1,500 m (4,900 ft) above sea level. The foothills descend into the subtropical Dooars Plain. Most of the Dooars is located in India, although a 10 to 15 km (6.2 to 9.3 mi) wide strip extends into Bhutan.  The northern and the southern Dooars are the division of The Bhutan Dooars .

The northern Dooars, which abut the Himalayan foothills, have rugged, sloping terrain and dry, porous soil with dense vegetation and abundant wildlife. The southern Dooars has moderately fertile soil, heavy savannah grass, dense, mixed jungle, and freshwater springs. Mountain rivers, fed by either the melting snow or the monsoon rains, empty into the Brahmaputra River in India.

Phuntsholing, is a border town in southern Bhutan and is the administrative seat of Chukha District. Phuentsholing adjoins the Indian town of Jaigaon, and cross-border trade has resulted in a thriving local economy. The town has the headquarters of the Bank of Bhutan previously but shifted to Thimphu In 2017. Bhutan Tour organized by Himalayan Destination can make your vacation memorable one, as we are specialist in this sector. Himalayan Destination is one of the best Bhutan tour and travel operator. Himalayan Destination is one of the best tour and travel operator, who organize Bhutan Tour.

What To See

Zangto Pelri Lhakhang is the reflection of the ancient architecture of Bhutan.The eight life size statues of Guru Rinpoche were consecretated in the ground floor of the monastery.Every statue is depicting the experiences at the different point of life which was assumed by Guru Rinpoche.A visit inside this monastery is highly recommended as it has a collection of statues and the walls decorated with murals of Guru Padmasambhava and other noble sages of Bhutan.It was built in the year of 1990 under the commandment of Dasho Aku Tongmi, who composed the National Anthem of Bhutan.After enjoying the Whole monastery tourists can take a stroll around the well manicured garden.There are a number of prayer wheels near the garden.The pilgrims pay their homage to the God through spinning the prayer wheels.

Karbandi Monastery, or as locals call it, Karbandi Goemba, is located at a height of 400 metres. Founded in 1967, it’s the winter residence of the Royal Grandmother, Ashi Phuntsho Choedron. The temple compound houses impressive, large statues of Shabdrung Ngawang, Guru Rinpoche and Shakyamuni Buddha. The plush garden located right outside the monastery gives a panoramic view of the Bengal Plain and the Phuentsholing town. Eight different Tibetan Buddhist Stupas enhance  the aesthetic appeal of the garden. According to legend, an Indian pilgrim couple visited this place and prayed for a child. The wish was granted, and since then, couples have been visiting this place in hopes of a better future.

The Amo Chhu Crocodile Breeding Centre is undisputedly one of the most popular places to visit in Phuentsholing. Get close to these dangerous creatures in real life, and see them snooze or feed. Of course, how close you get depends on the time you visit the breeding centre. With various species of crocodiles and alligators, it’s the place to be if you’re an animal lover.

Depicting traditional Bhutanese architecture, Bhutan Gate is the main gateway for entry from India. One of the most photographed attractions, the gate demarcates the Bhutanese and the Indian territory with adjoining cities, Jaigaon and Phuentsholing.

Thimphu is the little bustling capital  city of  Bhutan. It is located in the western central part of Bhutan,  Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. , From the year of1961 Thimphu was declared as the capital of the Kingdom of Bhutan by  the 3rd Druk Gyalpo Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. The city extends in a north-south direction on the west bank of the valley formed by the Raidak River, which is known as the Wang Chuu or Thimphu Chuu in Bhutan. Thimphu is the fourth highest capital in the world by altitude and ranges in altitude from 2,248 metres (7,375 feet) to 2,648 metres (8,688 feet).This capital city is home to the 100,000 inhabitants.This is the main center of trade and commerce, religious customs and Bhutanese culture.The most important attraction of Thimpu are National Post Office,the Clock Tower Square,the Motithang Takin Preserve ,Tango and Chari Monastries etc.Tshechu is an important festival.

Memorial Chorten
Chorten means stupa.This stupa was built in 1974 in the memory of Bhutan’s third King,Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. This stupa is one of the tallest monument in the Thimpu,located in the southern central part of Thimpu.Elegant architecture and marvellous sculptures of this stupa are the witness of Bhuddhist culture. The paintings and statues inside the monument provide a deep insight into Buddhist philosophy.

Simtokha Dzong
Sangak Zabdhon Phodrang is the another name of Simtokha Dzong . In the year of 1629  Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal built it .This is the first Dzong which successfully provides administrative facilities. The Institute for Language and Cultural Studies is located here. The most noteworthy artistic feature of this dzong is the series of over 300 finely worked slate carvings behind the prayer wheels in the courtyard.

National Library
The National Library  is established in 1967,the center of Thimpu.This Library arranges adequate space for national archives of Bhutan along with Tibetan & Bhutanese texts & manuscripts.There are so many types of precious historical pictures hanging on inside wall of the Library.Tranquility is existed in the premises of Library.   Besides thousands of manuscripts and ancient texts, the library also has modern academic books and printing blocks for prayer flags.

Institute for Zorig Chusum
Painting School is an another name of Institute for Zoring Chusum . This  Institute arranges a six-year course on the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan like sewing,ornament making, painting, carving etc.Magnificent Thangkha painting is taught here.On a visit, one can see students learning the various skills  at the school.

Traditional Medicine Institute
This medicine Institute is established in 1978.Allopathic & herbal medicine both are equal important to the inhabitants of Bhutan.This institute collects herbal plants from the every corner of Himalaya for improvement of the herbal medicine.This institute is considered to be a Herbal Medicine Hospital. This Institute provides best training opportunity for traditional medicine practitioners. Due to considerations of hygiene visitors can’t enter inside the complex.but one can still walk around and view it from outside.

The Folk Heritage Museum (Phelchey Toenkhyim)
This museum was established in 2001,located in the heart of Thimpu.This museum is a three storied building.Tourists experience partial idea about the traditional Bhutanese lifestyle from the museum.Artifacts from rural household,household objects,tools etc.are displayed inside the museum.Apart from displaying these things,museum organize a program for demonstrating the rural traditions,household skills,customs.Museum provides educational program for children.Inside the museum ,unique experience is awaited for the tourists like rural landscaped to wheat,paddy,millet fields,water mill,traditional hot stone baths etc.Most important thing is this museum introduces different kind of anonymous native plants.

National Textile Museum
National Textile Museum is situated near the National Library of Bhutan. Museum has garnered a substantial collection of antique textile artifacts. The Queen Ashi Sangay Choden Wangchuk first conceived this museum.The foundation year of this museum is2001.

Trashichhoedzong
“Fortress of the glorious religion” is the prestigious name of this dzong. It was initially built in 1641.   In the year of 1935 King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk rebuilt it’s present form. The Dzong houses, main secretariat building which houses the throne room of His Majesty, the King of Bhutan. The National Assembly Hall is housed in a modern building on the other side of the river from the Dzong. During the warmer summer months, the monk body headed by His Holiness, the Je Khenpo, makes its home in the Dzong.

Handicrafts Shops
A wide assortment of colorful, hand woven textiles and other craft products is available for purchase at the government-run Handicrafts Emporium and many smaller crafts shops around the

Weekend Market
Every Saturday and Sunday most of Thimphu’s scant population and many valley dwellers congregate on the banks of the river . It is an interesting place to visit and provides opportunity to mingle with the local people.

Changangkha Lhakhang
It is a Buddhist fortress,built in 12th century.It is perched on ridge near Motithang Takin Preserve.It is divided into three parts, first part is dedicated to the devotees who devoted their whole life to learn the holy Buddhist teachings.Other two parts consist of inner sanctum and meditation hall for Buddhist monk. The figurine of Chenresig with 11 head & 1000 arms is consecrated in the inner sanctum.

Craft Bazaar 
Organised on Tuesday and Wednesday in Centenary Farmer’s market, under patronage of Department of cottage & small industry and in collaboration with the department of culture, tourism council and the department of agriculture marketing and cooperatives, this market offers genuine Bhutanese arts & crafts thus contributing in promotion, protection and preservation of traditional arts.

Junghi Handmade Paper Factory
Junghi Paper factory comprises of two enterprises ; the unit in Thimphu produces traditional handmade paper from natural plants mainly from ‘Daphne’ plant species which is insect-resistant. The other unit in Jimina, 22 km from the centre Thimphu town, recycles waster papers. The traditional handmade papers are widely useful for making religious scripts, packing materials, hand-carry bags, lampshades, envelopes, calendars . The paper looks a lot like Japanese washi. Bhutan exports this special paper   to Japan also.

Zangthopelri Lhakhang 
In the year of 1900,Zanthopelri was built by Dasho Aku Tongmi,the musician & composer of Bhutan’s National Anthem.It is located near the Bhutan Gate & Immigration Office.It represents the symbol of tranquility & solace to the distressed heart.The temple is a three storied with a beautiful garden where the tourists can get relaxation & positive vibe.Colorful frescoes & murals make marvellous look of temple’s interior.Some statues of Buddhist deities are consecrated inside the temple.

Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang)
Kuensel Phodrang or Buddha Point is a massive statue of Sakyamuni Buddha with 60 mts.height sitting on lotus.It is consecrated on the hilltop & made of bronze,gilded with gold.It is located near the Thimpu.In the center ,a grand statue of Buddha is called as Buddha Dordemna & the hundreds of small statues are enhancing the weight of this place.

Simply Bhutan Museum 
Simply Bhutan is a noteworthy project under the Bhutan Youth Development Fund (YDF),tomorrow’, for the youth of Bhutan.This interactive museum introduces the traditional life in Bhutan with the visitors.All visitors can enjoy local Arra (rice spirit). Inside the museum visitors can dress up in traditional Bhutanese clothes for enjoyment.

Drubthob Goema / Zilukha Nunnery 
Perched on a promontory, overlooking picturesque Trashichhoedzong and Golf course, it is the only nunnery in capital known as Zilukha Anim Dratsang, once belonged to the Drubthob (Realized one) Thang Thong Gyalpo often referred to as The King of the open field (In the early 15th century with his multiple talents he popularly became the Leonardo da Vinci of the Great Himalayas). You may interact here with some of the nuns who have devoted their life to spirituality and Buddhism.

Excursions around Thimphu Valley

Tango Goemba
Tango Goemba is located in the north part of Thimpu.One of the most important religious figure,Phajo Drugom Shigpo established this monastery but in 15th century Lama Drukpa Kunley built the present building of this monastery.Tango itself is a part of Buddhist University.In the year of 1616 Lama Zhabdrung visited Tango and meditated very close to this monastery.In gratitude Lama sculpted a sandalwood statue of Chenresing and consecrated this statue inside the monastery.There are several chapels in the main three storied building.The fourth Druk Desi gives blessing from his walking stick.Monastery compounds is surrounded by wooden sticks.Every wooden stick is ornamented by eight auspicious Buddhist signs.A small chapel enshrines a large crystal whis was from Tibet & is used in visualization meditation.

Cheri Goemba
In the year of 1620 Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal established this Goemba.There is  a silver chorten inside the monastery.it holds the ashes of Shabdrung’s father. The goemba is very close to Dodena (alt. 2,600m).
The trail commences by crossing a traditional wooden bridge that spans the Thimphu Chhu, then climbs steeply to the monastery. Being the place where the Shabdrung spent many years in meditation, Cheri today has numerous hermitages and small temples located on its slopes, commanding spectacular views. The one way walk to the monastery is approx 4.5 km, taking about 2 hours.

Phajoding Goemba 
t is a 5 km uphill walk from Motithang. In 15th century Shagcha Rinchen built this monestery. He introduced the Drukpa Kagyupa school in Bhutan in the 13th century. Ones up on a time it was  one of the richest monasteries in the country.

Lungchuzekha Goemba
It is an interesting three to four hours round trip walk around Dochula pass, offering fascinating view of Bhutan Himalayas. From 108 chortens and mani wall at Dochula pass, the road ascends gradually into white, red and pink rhododendron forests for about one and a half hour with some steep sections before branching left to Lungchuzekha Goemba. The highlight of this excursion is beautiful forest, spectacular mountain views and monastery.

Takin Preserve, Motithang  
The Takin is the national animal of Bhutan, and looks like a cross between a cow and a goat. The great Buddhist yogi, Drupa Kunley created this animal and these are moving only in Bhutan and nearby areas. Taxonomists place the animal in a category of its own as it is not similar enough to any other animal to fit established categories.

Botanical Gardens, Serbithang 
Located on lush hillside about 10km from the city, the gardens offer a peaceful and relaxing environment to spend a few hours. Botanists will find the wide selection of indigenous trees and plants of interest.

Coronation Park
Located on the banks of the river (near the city stadium), this 5.6 acres of parkland offer a pleasant and relaxing environment to stroll or to sit and watch the river flow by.

Tandin Nye
This sacred lhakhang is about 1 km from the main town, built on a cliff, just like the Tiger’s Nest in Paro. The visit to the temples provides an opportunity to feel and see the great work of ancient Buddhist legends. Local people  believed that there was a lake below the lhakhang but now one can found only a marshy area.

Sangaygang – Wangditse loop  
Drive to Sangaygang view point,  situated at an elevation of 2685m and presenting wonderful view of Thimphu valley from the hillside below the telecommunications tower. From here commences approx two hours walk to Sangayang – Wangditse loop. The trail leads through ubiquitous prayer flags amidst beautiful view of Thimphu valley. After a short and abrupt hike, take the side footpath to right and thereon the trail gets gentler and easier. Above the trail, you’ll also find apple orchard and few farm house. There after the trail drops down gently through oak, blue pine and rhododendron until you reach to Wangditse monastery.   1750 is the foundation year of this monastery .  Later  rebuilt in 2016. The inner chapel houses a two-storey statue of Sakyamuni Buddha. En route, there are excellent views north towards the Samteling Palace, home to the fourth King. The walking tail ends back at Sangaygang view point.

Punakha was the capital of Bhutan until the 1960’s, and still retains the serene atmosphere of a place with a regal past. The dzong is the main attraction, but there are also other sites of interest in and around this pleasant little town. Along with Paro and Jakar, Punakha completes the triangle of most popular tourist destinations.

Punakha Dzong
Majestically standing on an island between the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, the city’s dzong is one of the most photogenic of all Bhutan’s ancient fortresses, and you will see pictures of it hanging in hotels and restaurants throughout the country.  An arched wooden bridge joined the Dzong with the mainland and contains many precious relics from the days when successive kings reigned the kingdom from this valley. The dzong serves as the winter home of the monastic body.

Paro is a historic town with many sacred sites and historical buildings scattered through the area. In addition, the Paro Valley is wide and verdant and  one of the most beautiful towns  in  Bhutan. Prefer to stay in Paro if you are someone who is fond of nature and would like to spend quiet and peaceful time. However, apart from the main street , the bazaar area is a nondescript hodgepodge of concrete buildings . Along with Jakar and Punakha, Paro forms the ‘golden triangle’ of popular tourist destinations in Bhutan.

Taktsang Monastery, (Tiger’s Nest)
Precariously perched on the edge of a 1,200 meter cliff, this monastery creates an impressive sight, and is the unofficial symbol of Bhutan. It is about 2-3 hour, totally up-hill hike from the parking lot to the monastery, though there is a cafe located on ridge across from the Taktsang (about 90 minutes into the walk) that provides a welcome opportunity to take a rest and purchase refreshments and snacks. The hike up to the Tiger’s Nest can be very strenuous and you can rent a horse to bring up the mountain. The horse ride is a one-way trip (this is recommended if you are not very fit and may face altitude sickness) and you have to make your way down the mountain by foot. Guru Rinpoche establishe sacred  Taktsang  for meditation . He visited the site on his second visit to Bhutan in 747 CE .  Though the first monastery was not constructed until 1694. In 1998 a tragic fire destroyed most of the original buildings, but these have since been painstakingly restored to their former glory.

National Museum of Bhutan
Located in a former watch tower above the dzong, the museum displays artifacts from Bhutan’s history as well as examples of indigenous flora and fauna.

Rinpung Dzong
The natives constructed in 1646 is one of the famous Dzong of this area.

Drukgyel Dzong
In the 16th century to commemorate a victory over the invader Tibetan forces,natives of Bhutan established this Dzong. The fortress today lies in ruins, the elements and a fire in the 1950s having taken a toll on the site. Drukyel dzong is about 15 kms from Paro.

Drakhapo
Located above Shaba (keeping Shaba School to the right, follow the dirt road to end. The complex is a five minute walk from here). Drakhapo is a monastic complex . Guru Rinpoche spent two months here after completing a retreat at nearby Taktsang, and during his stay placed many treasures into the cliff. The area also has several hand and foot prints embedded in the rock.

Kichu Lhakang
 King Songten Gampo in one night constructed Kichu Lhakang & there are 108 monasteries inside this.It is located just off the road running between Paro bazaar and the Taktsang.

Jangsarbu Lhakhang
Located behind Paro Dzong. This small and insignificant looking temple is home to a magnificent statue of Sakyamuni Buddha which carried all the way from Lhasa, and also houses the protector deity of Paro. Legend has it that the statue of Sakyamuni was destined for Paro Dzong and merely placed in the temple for overnight safe keeping. However, when the time came to move the statue, it proved impossible to lift. As a result, it became a permanent feature of the lhakhang.

Best time to visit

In March – April

March and April are among the most popular times to travel as temperatures are pleasant and the valleys are abundant in nature; especially as all the flowers start to bloom. Early April witnesses the Paro Tshechu, so book ahead to get the best accommodation and flights.

Events & Festivals

• Rhododendron season (March to May): Similar to Nepal, Bhutan’s landscapes are at their best at this time of year before the monsoon arrives, with colourful rhododendrons carpeting the hillsides.
• Trekking in Bhutan (October to November and March to April): Trekking is a wonderful way to see the beautiful scenery of this wonderful, little-visited country. These months offer the best weather for mountain walks and overnight stays in characterful teahouses.

In May

Temperatures increase in May, bringing humidity as well as cloud over the mountains. However, fewer visitors and lower prices can make it a perfectly viable time to visit. The rhododendrons should also still be in bloom – ideal for photographers and nature lovers.

Events & Festivals

• Rhododendron season (March to May): Similar to Nepal, Bhutan’s landscapes are at their best at this time of year before the monsoon arrives, with colourful rhododendrons carpeting the hillsides.

In June – August

June to August (and sometimes into September) is monsoon season in Bhutan. Although showers can occur at night without spoiling daytime explorations, conditions aren’t ideal for trekking. Sightseeing is still possible with a raincoat! It’s also ideal for retreating to a spa. Views are best in the mornings following night-time downpours.

In September

The  month of September, October and November are ideal for hiking. Also it is good for seeing festivals (particularly the popular Thimphu Tshechu) and enjoying stunning views and pleasant temperatures. Expect it to be around 25°C in the sun, but there will be cooler temperatures in the evenings and at higher altitudes.

In October

The majority of travellers (around 80% of all international visitors) want to visit Bhutan in October, so plan well in advance to ensure you get your preferred accommodation and good value flights.

Events & Festivals

• Trekking in Bhutan (October to November and March to April): Trekking is a wonderful way to see the beautiful scenery of this wonderful, little-visited country. These months offer the best weather for mountain walks and overnight stays in characterful teahouses.

In November

Black-necked cranes migrate from the Tibetan Plateau to the protected Phobjikha Valley each year. They remain in the region from late October to early February.Bird arrival festival.in November is a special occasion in Gangteyion. in Plan ahead if you want to be a part of it.

Events & Festivals

• Black-necked crane festival (November): These endangered birds migrate to spend each winter in the Phobjikha Valley. The festival celebrating their arrival takes place in in the courtyard of Gangtey Gonpa to promote their conservation.
• Trekking in Bhutan (October to November and March to April). Trekking is a wonderful way to see the beautiful scenery of this wonderful, little-visited country. These months offer the best weather for mountain walks and overnight stays in characterful tea houses.

In December – February

From December to February Bhutan is at its coldest; especially in the mountains, but clear skies reward those who brave the low temperatures. The valleys are warmer and sunny with clear views of the incredible Himalaya. Due to colder temperatures, visitor numbers will be lower.

The climate in Bhutan varies with elevation, from subtropical in the south to temperate in the highlands and polar-type climate, with year-round snow in the north. Bhutan experiences five distinct seasons: summer, monsoon, autumn, winter and spring. Western Bhutan gets huge monsoon rains every year. But in case southern Bhutan weather it is hot humid summers and cool winters and the central and eastern Bhutan is more warm and drier than the west in summers and cool winters.

Contact Himalayan Destination to make your vacation memorable one……..

Green Bhutan, Clean Bhutan & Plastic Free Bhutan

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Nestling within the Himalayan mountains, the state of geographic area is characterised by mountainous piece of ground. nearly the complete state is unsmooth, with AN elevation starting from 280 meters (920 ft) to eight,586 meters (28,169 ft). The summit of Kangchenjunga—the world’s third-highest peak—is the state’s highest purpose, located on the border between geographic area and Asian country.For the foremost half, the land is unfit for agriculture thanks to the rocky, precipitous slopes. However, some hill slopes are reborn into terrace farms. Silk Route Tour organized by Himalayan Destination will create your vacation unforgettable one, as we have a tendency to square measure specialist during this sector and that we operate hotels The Sunrise Residency at Gangtok conjointly. Himalayan Destination is one in all the simplest Silk Route tour and travel operator. Himalayan Destination is one in all the simplest tour and travel operator, UN agency organize Silk Route Tour.

Iccheygaon could be a pristine Himalayan hamlet tucked at intervals the pine forests of Kalimpong with a position of Mt. Kinchinjunga. close at AN altitude of 5800 feet, it’s the right place for those nursing the soul of a nature lover. With various nature trails and short treks initiating from Iccheygaon to viewpoints like Ramitey Dara, Tinchuley and Jalsa, it’s one amongst the best-kept secrets of this region. The evenings at Iccheygaon become terribly exciting once lights of Darjeeling, Ravangla and Namchi twinkle right along the slopes of the mighty chain.

Mangkhim is that the crown adjacent to the favored destination of Aritar, within the village of Dalapchand below the Rongli Sub-Division of jap geographical area. Mangkhim offers a bird’s eye view of Mt. Kanchenjungha and therefore the emerald green “boot-shaped” Lampokhri Lake at constant time – this unimaginable view isn’t on the market from Aritar. In Mangkhim, there’s atiny low temple on the summit, a couple of homestays and a monastery, simply a leave. If you wish to pay some days in complete isolation from the city’s din with fabulous views of Mt. Kanchanjungha, then Mangkhim may be a nice alternative. Bird observation, paddle water travel and nature walking area unit alternative nice activities here.

“Mulkharkha Pokhri” or “Wish Fulfillment Lake” or “Wishing Lake” could be a natural water reservoir at an altitude of 7300ft, about to the village of Mulkharkha. an area bit on top of Darjeeling and sources there confirmed – Mulkharkha gets serious downfall throughout the winter. The lake located on high of a mountain, enclosed by pine trees, bears serenity among. One will pay hours simply sitting beside the lake. however the most attraction of that place is that the reflection of Mount Kinchinjunga in this holy lake. Being the most water supply of that space, the lake is sacred to the native Lepcha folks. Naturally, there ar many legends concerning the lake. Like, you may  realize a leaf over lake water, as a result of there’s a bird and it cleans the lake by memorizing fallen leaves.

The lake “Mulkharkha Pokhri” or “Wish Fulfillment Lake” or “Wishing Lake” thought of sacred by the locals and is named a wish Lake. it’s believed that anyone WHO makes a would like therein lake will certainly realize the would like coming back true. the ability of the lake is believed to be terribly robust and powerful.

The ideal time to go to Mulkarkha Lake is from the month of October to December. To witness a cultural event, Gregorian calendar month is another experience to go to. The villagers celebrate Ram Navami attend the lake with celebration furor. this point of the year, the lake is believed to return to life and its holiness is worshiped by the locals and therefore the villagers.

Someone will trek to Mulkharkha, the trek route to Mulkarkha Lake is one in every of the foremost exciting and untouched trails of the chain foothills. you’d stumble upon two hundred feet waterfalls, dense forests, fascinating views of Mt. Kanchenjungha, unceasing Buddhist monasteries, remote villages, many species of birds, butterflies and flowers.

me to go to Mulkharkha

If you’re in Mulkharkha between January and March, then you’ll found foggy with chilling weather.

Mulkharkha is encircled  with wild flowers from April to could you’ll get pleasure from the weather and explore the full village and lake areas.

Generally June to middle of middle of Oct is termed time of year.

Reflection of Mt. Kanchenjungha clearly visible within the lake from middle of Oct to Nov with clear and glossy weather.

From Dec winter comes and foggy weather has been started.

Padamchen could be a tiny village on the Silk Route circuit simply fourteen kms from Rongli and four kms from Zuluk, perked on a hill slope at 8000 linear unit and lined in dense forests. Padamchen experiences a really pleasant weather throughout the year and this can be one among the most reasons for its quality. If you’re not wont to biting cold and precipitation however need to expertise the hypnotic sunrise, glorious views and winding roads and valleys of this Silk Route circuit, then staying at Padamchen can be a selection. Padamchen has a number of the most effective views of the valleys and forests of this a part of geographic region and mountain chain foothills. The forests around Padamchen support a large sort of bird population and bird watchers would like to pay a number of days here. there’s a heritage Forest Resthouse at Padamchen too. you’ll be able to visit this forest resthouse to examine the picket floors, fireplace, porch and picket furnishings from the forgotten days of the lonely Forest Officers and Sahibs United Nations agency wont to travel this fashion.

Zuluk could be a little village beside a winding road. it had been once a transit purpose to the historic Silk Route from Xizang to Republic of India. there’s a neighborhood Nag Temple here. The temple contains a cave like structure and therefore the god of Ophiophagus hannan or Nag, notable Hindu legendary god is worshiped within the temple. The road through Zuluk makes virtually thirty two pin turns to achieve Lungthung, that makes it a singular engineering. there’s additionally associate degree Indian base at Zuluk, that has been used as a transit camp for the military movement to the Chinese border, a number of kilometers away.

Thambi view point is {close to|on the brink of|near to|about to|getting ready to|on the purpose of} Zuluk and it’s best read point of thirty two flip angularity ZigRoad. The thirty two flip zigzag road is that the just one in its nature within the entire range|range of mountains|chain|mountain chain|chain of mountains} range.. The Thambi view point at AN altitude of 11,200 linear unit additionally provides wonderful view of sunrise of Mt Kanchenjangha.

Gyamochen and Lungthung, The sunrise view of Gyamochen and Lungthung area unit presently 5 kms from Gnathang natural depression. the overall of Mt. Kanchenjungha selection with the complete its associated peaks area unit able to be seen from there. The sun rises on top  of Bhutan, it clears the complete of Kingdom of Bhutan and elements of China with its before time rays and reaches Mt. Kanchenjungha to revolve it cherry and you set within the center to spectator the pleasant identified “creation.” this excellent understanding preserve is witnessed from those dawn places.

Eagle’s Nest Bunker, if you’d prefer to see the most effective view of the complete eastern the Himalaya, with China, Asian nation the mountains of geographic area further as Darjeeling, the entire Mt. Kanchenjungha variety in conjunction with stream Bramhaputra roundabout from corner to corner China additionally toward the inside Republic of India, then you have got to steer mounting for 10 minutes to gain the Eagle’s Nest Bunker. this can be associate forlorn Bunker of the military and to be found well on a hill peak with a three-sixty degree whole view of the the Himalaya. You be ready to nonetheless observe bullet symbols within the bunker walls that stand the proof of the Indo-China war. inside 5 kms of Gnathang vale, those sunrise points ar ready to be got wind of inside twenty minutes from Gnathang. On the opposite hand, from additional spots during this recent Silk Route kind of like Padmachen or Zuluk, it takes solely or so one.5 hours to induce to the sunrise points.

Gnathang valley, conjointly called Nathang valleyis popularly referred to as the “ Ladakh of the Malay Archipelago, could be a high-altitude upland in East geographical area. set at associate degree altitude of 13,500 feet higher than water level and flanked by mountains on all sides, this can be a foreign valleywith a winding stream crisscrossing it. Gnathang is that the highest location to remain within the Indian a part of the recent Silk Route. it’s one in all the remotest Tibetan habitations in mountain chain. Gnathang valley typically remains lined with thick snow from January to April. The long four-month of sub-zero temperature makes the valley a chilly desert and one in all the foremost lovely elements of mountain chain. Gnathang valleyis that the most scenic destination within the whole of recent Silk Route. there’s an area Hindu temple, alittle Buddhist cloister, few houses, some migratory birds, a stream snaking through the valley and a little bridge over the stream within the distance – Gnathang is as shut as you’ll be able to get to paradise. The sunrise points of Lungthung and Gyamochen ar simply five kms from Gnathang valley . the entire of Mt. Kanchenjungha vary with all its allied peaks will be seen from here. If you wish to check the longest read of the complete jap mountain chain, with Bhutan, China, the hills of Bengal as well as Darjeeling, the complete Mt. Kanchenjungha vary and winding watercourse Bramhaputra across China and getting into Asian nation, then you have got to trek uphill for ten minutes to succeed in the Eagle’s Nest Bunker. this can be associate degree abandoned Bunker of the military and set strategically on a hill high with a 360 degree complete read of the mountain chain. you’ll be able to still see bullet marks within the bunker walls, that bears the testimony of the Indo-China war.

Tukla vale, is one in all the foremost scenic beauty place during this route. Where Mt. Kinchinjunga is a lot of nearer than alternative place. Snow clapped mountain with flat valley makes Tukla valley a lot of engaging for traveler. it’s situated four klick off from Gnathang valley.

Old Baba Mandir (which was the initial bunker of Baba Harbhajan Singh) close to Kupup Lake. there’s a noteworthy belief regarding this temple. Baba Harbhajan was associate degree Indian soldier who died close to the Nathula Pass. he’s revered by the troopers of the Indian army, who have designed a shrine in his honor. Baba is believed to possess granted favors to the soldiers, and guard every one within the inhospitable piece of ground. there’s a replacement Baba Mandir close to Changu (Tsomgo Lake) dedicated to Baba Harbhajan too. you’ll be able to additionally trek to Changala read purpose around 4 kms from Gnathang to expertise one amongst the foremost hypnotic views of stream Bramhaputra meeting stream Teesta and also the large plains of China, Bengal and Kingdom of Bhutan. Bird and Butterfly looking at in summer, once the vale is covered colors of all shades is another activity to require up. In October and Nov Gnathang valley exudes totally different colors throughout the day. you’ll be able to witness this alteration of color over the valley sitting in your homestay throughout the day. If you’re a food fanatic then you’ll be able to strive native Yak Milk Cheese (Churpi) and a few alternative fascinating ancient Tibetan Yak herder’s dishes.

Kupup lake at an altitude of 14,000ft is another known traveller place inSikkim. it’s additionally referred to as Elephant Lake as its form is simply like an elephant. The hockey Ground, The Yak golf course, the Elephant lake is main attraction in Kupup. Yak golf course is that the highest course within the world and Kupup lake hosts the athletic Game and it’s additionally the very best athletic game lake within the world. From Kupkup tourists will choose Jeelep La pass.

New Baba Mandir is new created shrine of Soldier Baba Harbhajan, who died as he fell from horse back on to a gorge whereas on duty, is popularly referred to as Baba Mandir. This mandir, set 50km aloof from Gangtok, is worshiped by native individuals additionally as army officers. This Mandir hosts all the recollections of BabaHarbhajan Singh and maintained by Indian Army.

Tsomogo Lake is additionally referred to as Tsongmo Lake or Chango Lake. it’s one in every of the foremost noted lake during this route. Altitude of this lake is 12,313ft and located 40km off from Gangtok. The lake is encircled by steep mountains that area unit coated with snow throughout winter. throughout summer the snow cowl melts and forms the supply for the lake. The lake surface reflects totally different colors with modification of seasons and is control in nice reverence by the native Sikkimese folks. The lake that remains frozen in winter season, generally extending up to May, receives an average annual precipitation of 1,183 millimetres (46.6 in) with temperatures recorded within the vary of 0–25 °C.

Rolep is placed at the bottom of Tshangu Lake and Memeantshu Lake or Menmecho Lake at the side of the Rangpo khola belt that is known for Trought fishing and pure cool water. This village is enclosed by terribly thick forest wherever verities of orchids,  then a hundred and fifty rare healthful herbs,60 to seventy species of mammals, birds, butterflies and reptiles.

Yakten is located in East Sikkim is unnoted by range Ranges, Yakten could be a stunning Hamlet. Anyone will get pleasure from the memorable jungle path and luxuriate in birds & butterfly looking at (many rare species of range birds) Yakten could be a paradise for birds and butterfly watchers , additionally rare species range of Orchid plant and flowers is knowledgeable about from Yakten village gardens.

Please note that you need Special Permits from Indian Army to enter Nimachen & above areas, which can be obtained from Rongli or Gangtok. Permit of NathuLa is not issued from Rongli Check Post. NO FOREIGN CITIZENS ARE ALLOWED PERMISSION  FOR THIS AREAS. 

Best time to visit

Though Silk Route can access throughout the year but Gnathnag is not accessible for 365 days. So you have to considered about the Gnathang accessibility for your Silk Route vacation.

In January – February

From January to FebruarySilk Route  is at its coldest; particularly within the mountains, however clear skies reward those that brave the low temperatures. The valleys are hotter and sunny with clear views of the unimaginable Himalaya. because of colder temperatures, visitant numbers are lower.

High altitude region specially higher than the Phadamchen road principally closed because of heavy snow. problem for obtaining allow on this region. Night keep possibility could offered at Phadamchen however higher than Phadamchen Night keep might not doable because of unavailability. it’s ideal for those that wish chilled  weather and serious snow. Night temperature could goes to negative in high altitude  areas. Travelers could in remission by snow during this time in high altitude. Travelers could visit during this time with sufficient buffer day. we’ll not recommend night reside Zuluk & Gnathang valley .

In March

On March Silk Route is at its coldest; snow melting has started. Temperature stay negative in the dark at high altitude space. Mountains stay coated snow clapped. The valleys are hotter and sunny with clear views of the unbelievable Himalaya. because of colder temperatures, traveller numbers are going to be lower. you’ll set up at this point however you’ll stuck any time at high altitude because of snow falls. higher to set up looking to Gnathang valley rather than night keep. Road on top of Phadamchen might shut and you’ll not get allow because of snow. we’ll not recommend night lodge in Zuluk & Gnathang valley

In April – May

April and May are among the foremost popular times to travel as temperatures are pleasant and therefore the valleys are plenteous in nature; particularly as all the flowers begin to bloom. Early April  witnesses the Rhododendron, therefore mountain slope could colourful. it’s ideal for photographers and nature lovers.

In June – September

June to September is monsoon season in Sikkim. however monsoon comes during this region very little late thus anybody will visit until middle June though showers will occur at the hours of darkness while not spoiling daytime explorations, conditions aren’t ideal for trekking. looking remains potential – simply be ready with a waterproof. Views are best within the mornings following night-time downpours. it’s the simplest time for mountain shower lover. however landslide will happen any time to spoil your trip. thus arrange consequently with enough buffer time.

In October

The majority of travelers (around 80%) wish to go to Silk Route in October, thus set up well earlier to confirm you get your most well-liked accommodation and smart worth flights. it’s  ideal for hiking and enjoying beautiful views and pleasant temperatures. Expect it to be around 25°C in the sun, however there’ll be cooler temperatures in the evenings and at higher altitudes.

In November

It is ideal time for those human who wish largely clear sky for photography.No need to hasitate to set up a plan during this season. This season is popular for mostly clear blue sky .  Snow Clapped mountain & less crowd thus anyone will pay their unforgettable time together with your love one.

In December

On December Silk Route is at its coldest; particularly within the mountains, however clear skies reward people who brave the low temperatures. The valleys are hotter and sunny with clear views of the unimaginable Himalaya.For the reason of colder temperatures, visitant numbers are lower. However from twentieth to thirty first December Silk Route largely overcrowded. we’ll not suggest night stay at Zuluk & Gnathang valley.

Please visit and let us give the opportunity to serve you and make your vacation memorable one……..

Green Sikkim, Clean Sikkim & Plastic Free Sikkim

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