Himachal Tour Packages Tourist Attraction in Himachal Pradesh unending natural beauty, pleasing climate and friendly people is a paradise on earth. A tourist will find so many Himachal Pradesh Tourist Attractions that it will take a long time to visit all the destinations. Each and every district has several fine tourism sites in its kitty, which attract people all around the world. The most popular and frequently visited tourist areas in Himachal Pradesh are:Kasauli, Chail, Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala. Kasauli Kasauli
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Himachal Tour PackagesTourist Attraction in Himachal Pradesh unending natural beauty, pleasing climate and friendly people is a paradise on earth. A tourist will find so many Himachal Pradesh Tourist Attractions that it will take a long time to visit all the destinations. Each and every district has several fine tourism sites in its kitty, which attract people all around the world. The most popular and frequently visited tourist areas in Himachal Pradesh are:Kasauli, Chail, Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala.
Kasauli is a popular hill station located in the district of Solan in the sate of Himachal Pradesh. Situated at an elevation of around 1800 mt above sea level, this place finds mention in one of the great Indian epics, the Ramayana.
The destination received its name from a mountain stream flowing between Jabli and Kasauli known as Kausalya. Situated amidst nature, the town is also known for attractions that include the Christ Church, Monkey Point, Kasauli Brewery, Baba Balak Nath Temple.
Dagshai
Dagshai which is located in the Shivalik foothills at an elevation of 1828.8 mt above sea level, is one of the oldest British cantonments in India. Beautiful schools dating back to 1876 are located here.
The place also has historical importance as several battles were fought here. It was under the rule of the Maharaja of Patiala before it was passed on to the British for the establishment of military stations. One of the prominent tourist attractions here is the Roman Catholic Church along with a graveyard of British soldiers who lived in the cantonment area.
Monkey Point
Monkey Point which is situated at a distance of about 4 km from the town bus stand is the highest peak of Kasauli. The place offers a perfect view of the Sutlej River, Chandigarh and the snow capped Choor Chandni Peak, the tallest peak of the Lower Himalayan region.
A temple situated on the peak, dedicated to the Hindu monkey-god, Hanuman, attracts visitors to the place. The place is named so after
the presiding deity of this temple. The temple is said to enshrine the foot prints of the deity. The entire area of Monkey Point is under the control of the Indian Air Force and tourists have to seek permission from authorities in order to visit this place.
ChailChail Palace Hotel
A quick getaway that you’re looking for in north India, then there are quite a few places in Himachal Pradesh which can make for a good, affordable holiday for the entire family. One such place is Chail – the summer retreat of the Maharaja of Patiala.
About 7 hours drive away from the sweltering summer heat of Delhi, lies the winding stretch to Chail. Cushioned between the rolling hills of the Shivalik range, the entire length of road has thick forests of Deodar and Pine trees. While tourist season is in summer, a holiday in this area during winter would be quite another experience, considering it snows in these parts.
At Chail the place to stay in is the famous Chail Royal Palace built on Rajgarh hill. It was converted into a hotel by Himachal Pradesh
tourism sometime in the seventies. The original palace built in 1891 was devastated in a fire, and the palace was shifted to this somewhat plain grey stone structure in 1951. Since the time that the palace was converted into a hotel, it has undergone a lot of renovation despite which, the interiors retain their grandeur.
Kali ka tibba
Chail is one of the famous tourist spot, an agreeable Hindu religious destination at an extreme height. With a temple of Kali Devi presiding as the main deity over the area, the place has attracted both the tourists and locals. Located on the apex of the mountain named after the Rajmata’s cottage-Blossom, the place gives a panoramic view of the venerable Shivalik Range and the mighty Choor Chandni peak. One can always trek up to the temple, as the way up offers some good sights.
The temple known as the Sidh temple was renovated 4 years back. The plan was laid by Shri. Shambhu Bharti, a former pujari of Sidh Temple. Pawan Sharma, the priest of Kali Devi temple tells us, “The difficulties were countless, as it’s built in the national park.” Kali
Devi is built on the third hillock, with the backdrop of snow clad Himalayas. Another must see sight is the royal palace built back in 1891 by Maharaja Bhupinder Singh when he was expelled from Shimla by the Britishers which overlook Choor Chandni, Solan, Rajgarh, Shimla, Kasauli and Kandaghat.
The temple can be reached by half an hour drive from Chail through the Gauda road and for those adventure seekers who like the adrenaline rush, the 2 hour trek from Chail is favored. One can also hire cabs usually available at Chail for Rs. 250. Kali ka tibba not only provides one with spiritual peace but even a bounty of nature and divinity at its best!
Apart from thick deodar forests, panoramic views, a wildlife sanctuary and a sprawling palace hotel called the Chail Palace, the
hill town of Chail in Himachal Pradesh also has the highest cricket ground in the world, the legacy of Bhupinder Singh, a former maharaja of Patiala. At Sadhupul, 16km from Chail, picnic on the banks of the Ashni river. The view of the Dhauladhar range and the Choor Chandni peak from Kali ka Tibba is spectacular.
Shimla
Kalka Shimla Railway Overview
Experience an enchanting journey by boarding the UNESCO recognised Kalka Shimla Railway! Connecting the history-rich town of Kalka with India's finest hill station- Shimla, this route offers some of the most breathtaking sights of the country.
The route, which measures 96 km in length, was laid by the British in the year 1903 to gain access to Shimla, the erstwhile summer
capital. Kalka Shimla Railway's inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage Site's list on July 8, 2008 is one of the main events in its history.
As the train chugs along the route on a 2 ft 6 in (762 mm) narrow gauge track, stunning locales encompassed by towering forested mountains arrest the attention of passengers. It passes through 20 stations, 102 tunnels and 864 bridges, and between every two stations, two tunnels and two bridges, there is boundless natural beauty to behold! The three-stage Arch Gallery (Bridge No. 493), Bridge No. 226 (5 tier galleries of multiple spans) and the longest tunnel in Barog are some of the stupendous architectural feats that add uniqueness to the route.
Right from start to end, this train journey visually delights every passenger on board. Dharampur, Solan, Kandaghat, Taradevi, Barog, Salogra and Totu (Jutogh) are some of the beautiful destinations that you get to see through the glass panels of the coaches, during the journey.
The trains operating in the route are loaded with superior features. Shivalik Deluxe, the first super-fast train has wall to wall carpeting, reversible chairs, on-board catering services and bigger windows for better views. Some trains feature a Deluxe Rail Motor Car, which can accommodate a group of 14 at a time.
This coach is equipped with altimeter, transparent fibre glass roof, cushioned chairs for ultimate comfort and elegant light fittings. Shivalik Palace Tourist Coach (RA-4) and the Shivalik Queen (RA-
67) are super luxury coaches that are beautifully decorated and provided with bed, kitchen and dining facilities.
Naldehra Golf Course Overview
The scenic Naldehra Golf Course, which bears resemblance to the Scottish links courses, is located about 22 km from Shimla. Measuring 4285 yards, this Par 68 course boasts of 18 holes, 16 greens and 18 tees. Established in the early 1900s, under the supervision of the former viceroy of India, Lord Curzon, this golf course initially had 9 holes, and is known to be one of the oldest in India.
Perched 2,200 m above sea level, Naldehra is one of the country's most challenging golf courses. It covers a long sloping glade and is surrounded by countless Deodar trees from all sides. Bewitched by
the boundless beauty of the golf club, Lord Curzon named his third daughter as Alexandra Naldehra.
Within the boundaries, the golf course has a stylish club house that features three double rooms and a comfortable drawing room. Open for members as well as non-members, this club house is available on prior booking.
Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex Overview
Located in the heart of Shimla, on Mall Road, Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex is a significant tourist hot spot. Opened on the 30th of May in 1887, this historic cultural centre was designed by Henry Irwin. The building's exquisite Gothic style of architecture is a true manifestation of Victorian artistry.
Initially, it was a five-story building with a theatre, ballroom, armoury, police office, bar and galleries. After nearly two decades from its date of establishment, it was found that the building was structurally unsafe. It was partially demolished, but the Gaiety theatre remained untouched.
The most popular attraction in this complex is the Victorian theatre where legends like Rudyard Kipling, Prithvi Raj Kapoor, Baten Powel, K. L. Sehgal and others have performed. More than a century-old symbol of art and culture – the Gaiety is primarily known for its social club.
With an array of venues, including exhibition hall, art gallery, multi-purpose hall, amphitheatre and old theatre hall, this is the hub of performing arts in the state. The complex witnesses a huge influx of visitors year-round due to its cultural prominence.
Green Valley Overview
Oozing boundless beauty, Green Valley is a natural dale near Kufri in Shimla. It is surrounded by verdant hills that are covered with dense forests of pine and deodar. Sometimes rare animals like Yaks can be seen wandering and grazing here. It is a popular point where people come to witness and enjoy the picturesque lush green environs.
A residential centre for higher education, the Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS), is located on Observatory hill – one of the seven hills of Shimla. Formed in 1964, this institute was formally inaugurated by Dr. S. Radhakrishnan – the former President of India on 20th October 1965.
The history of this learning centre is more than 100 years old. IIAS was originally built as home for Lord Duffein, who was the Viceroy of India during the years 1884 and 1888.
It was known as the Visceregal Lodge at that time. Many historic decisions, including the Shimla Conference of 1945 and the Separation of Pakistan and East Pakistan in 1947, have been taken in this building.
Post-independence, the edifice was renamed as 'Rashtrapati Nivas' and was used by the President of India as a summer retreat. It was later converted into a research centre for Indian culture, religion,
humanities and social and natural sciences. The architectural beauty of the building is quaint and captivating.
Henry Irwin, an architect in Public Works Department, designed the building. The use of grey stone and exotic Burmese teak gives this heritage building an exquisite look that mesmerises onlookers at the very first glance. A beautiful garden and well-stocked museum are also located within the campus.
Jakhu Temple Overview
Nestling atop Jhakhu Hill, the Jhakhu Temple is one of Shimla's popular places of religious importance. It is situated 2.5 km away from the ridge, at an elevation of 8000 ft above sea level. Tourists either can walk up to the temple from the ridge or can hire a pony or taxi. This ancient shrine was built by a sage named Yaaku and is dedicated to the Hindu deity Hanuman.
There are a number of legends associated with the origin of the temple, one of which states that Lord Hanuman stopped at the Jhakhu Hill when he was looking for Sanjeevani herb. He met sage Yaaku on the hilltop and then moved ahead in his journey.
The intricate carvings and paintings on the walls of this religious edifice testify the expertise of architects and artisans. The 108 feet high idol of Lord Hanuman is the major highlight of the temple. Dussehra is one of the most important festivals celebrated here. The shrine witnesses a huge influx of devotees every year due to its antiquity and religious prominence.
Kali Bari Temple Overview
Just one km away from Mall Road- the central hub of Shimla, the ancient Kali Bari Temple is a place worth visiting. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is also known as Devi Shyamala, this religious edifice is visited by countless devotees every year.It was built in the year 1845 amidst rolling hills of Shimla, which oozes beauty at every turn. Legends have it that it is from the name of Goddess Shyamala, the name of the hill station – 'Shimla' has been derived.
Kufri Overview
Kufri, nestling 8000 ft above sea level, is a small hill station in Shimla district. It is located at a distance of 16 km from central Shimla, on NH-22. The scenic environs and snow-capped landscapes attract tourists from all parts of the country and abroad. Nature does its best in Kufri to amaze onlookers at every turn.
This picturesque destination has various places of interest, each of which is worth visiting. During winters, hills in Kufri serve as popular spots for skiing. The highest peak in Kufri – Mahasu Peak is covered with thick forests and is another tourist hot spot. The hill station also has a Himalayan Nature Park, which serve as home to several common and rare animal species like hangal, brown bear and Himalayan Monal – the state bird of Himachal Pradesh. Other important attractions here include the Chini Bungalow – known for its architecture and statues, and Kufri Fun World – a happening amusement park.
Listed among India's top travel destinations, Kufri boasts of an assorted selection of hotels ranging from luxury to budget. Do splurge at least once or twice at Kufri's best restaurants like Kufri Holiday resort and Snow Shelter Hotel.
Christ Church Overview
Christ Church is the second oldest Roman Catholic Shrine in North India and the oldest in Shimla. Col. J. T. Boileau initiated the construction of the shrine in 1844, which was completed in 1846. The cathedral was consecrated on 10th January 1857 by Bishop Wilson of Calcutta.Showing off brilliant Neo-Gothic style of architecture, this church has attracted and continues to attract thousands of visitors every year. The nave and chancel of this church are exquisite. The floor is decorated by one central and two side aisles that are flanked with
pews.In the year 1860, Colonel Dumbleton contributed a clock that accentuates the beauty of the church even today. Five exquisite stained glasses in the church represent the Christian Virtues of Faith. You will be amazed to know that the church's Pipe Organ, built in the year 1899, is the biggest in Indian Subcontinent. Paintings and batiks that portray scenes from Jesus Christ's life are other impressive features of the Church.Heavy snowfall caused a lot of damage to the shrine, dismantling its pinnacles and corroding its walls, in the year 1961. However, it still stands with beatific elegance, owing to considerable restoration and regular maintenance. If you are in search of a serene spot to meditate, pray and relax, this church will be a perfect place of repose.
Prospect Hill, one of the seven hills of Shimla, is located approximately 4 km away from the city. It lies on Kamna Devi Temple Road at an elevation of about 2150 m above sea level. It is graced with lush green forests that feature assorted flora mainly deodar, oats, pines and rhododendrons. The view of Tara Devi and southern Shimla from the hill is mesmerising.Apart from the famous Hindu shrine- Kamna Devi Temple, there are a good number of picnic spots in Prospect Hill. For adventure-seekers, this hill offers many exciting activities like trekking and rock-climbing. The extraordinary sight of sunset and moonrise at the same time is one of the major highlights.
Shaily Peak Overview
Located 23 km away from Naldehra near Mahakali Lake, the Shaily Peak is one of the most beautiful attractions in Shimla. Its 8 km steep course from Khatnol (the base) to the peak attracts countless
adventure seekers every year. Dense forests and rocky trails adorn this peak.
Jubbal Palace Overview
Lovers of history and architecture will love to visit the beautiful Jubbal Palace. It nestles approximately 7000 feet above the sea level, amidst rolling hills that are covered with dense forests of pine and cedar.Located favourably on Raj Bhawan Road, this heritage site is just 5.8 km away from the heart of the city and is easily accessible. The presence of terraced gardens and deliberately trimmed Virginia vines within the complex greatly accentuates the exquisiteness of the palace.Raja Rana Sir Bhagat Chandra demolished the original Victorian structure in 1938. Later, on the same site a summer palace was built in a unique blend of Indian and Chinese architecture styles. The exteriors flaunt exquisite features like an elaborate citadel and
walls with convoluted artistry. In the interiors, visitors will find intricately carved structures of timber, suspended attics and signed photographs and paintings of eminent people.The royal family of Jubbal lived here until 1977 when Raj Kumar Uday Singh – Raja Rana Sir Bhagat Chandra's grandson, converted a part of this palace into a heritage hotel. The hotel, named as Woodville Palace Hotel, is known to offer royal suites with luxury amenities.
ManaliSolang Valley
Solang Valley is a side valley at the top of the Kullu Valley in Himachal
Pradesh, India 14 km northwest of the resort town Manali on the way to Rohtang Pass, and is known for its summer and winter sport
conditions. The sports most commonly offered are parachuting, paragliding, skating and zorbing. ...
Solang Valley Overview
Solang Valley is quiet and is best approached by road. The drive up to Solang is extremely picturesque. Once you are there, try out some Chinese food from the local roadside shacks, and enjoy the views. The road ahead is blocked since a tunnel to Koksar (a village ahead of Rohtag La) is now being built there.
Swaying eucalyptus, lovely roads, sweet little eateries, small kitschy market places, and cafes that serve your favourite continental food at unbelievably low prices, the serenity of Old Manali is only disturbed by twittering birds and the sound of the gushing waters of the Kullu River.
An important tourist spot around Manali, Naggar Castle is an ancient palace dating back to the 15th century. It boasts of impressive architecture and also houses a gallery of paintings of the remarkable Russian artist, Nicholas Reorich.
A famous and significant pilgrimage spot, the Manu Temple is the only temple in India for Lord Manu, the legendary sage who stayed in this area.The town of Manali derives its name from Lord Manu. Manali is believed to be the abode of Manu, the great sage who is credited for having formed the first laws of Hindu mythology. It is believed that after saving mankind from the great flood, Manu somehow landed in Manali and started living here.The Manu Temple is situated a mere 3 kilometres away from the main market of the old Manali region.
Tibetan Monasteries Overview
One of the most fascinating aspects of Manali is the fact that it has several colourful monasteries. These monasteries serve not only as a place of worship but also as guardians of the rich culture and history of the Tibetan people settled in Kullu and Manali.The two most important monasteries that draw a huge number of
tourists to Manali from across the globe are the Gadhan Thekchoking Gompa and the Himalayan Nyingamapa Gompa. You can shop for beautiful handicrafts that are made by Tibetan people at these monasteries.
Club House Overview
The Manali Club House is maintained by the Himachal Tourism Development Corporation. It is one of the best centres of recreation in Manali. Located at the foothills of old Manali town, the Club House offers alluring views of the lush green surroundings.
You can enjoy various indoor and outdoor games at the Club House by paying nominal charges. Some of the games and facilities at the Club House include an auditorium, billiards room, library, roller skating rink, carom room, bar and restaurant.
Rohtang Pass is a very beautiful and popular spot in Manali with more than 25 lakh visitors every year. In winter, the mountains at the Rohtang Pass are completely covered in snow and it is impossible to get there. Hence, the pass remains closed during winters (from October) and generally opens again in May.
In May, Rohtang becomes a place for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The snow-covered mountains provide the perfect opportunity to go skiing and snow scooter riding. Take your family to this wonderful place and enjoy some quality time together.
The 15th-century Hadimba Temple was built to commemorate Hadimba Devi, from the Indian spiritual epic Mahabharata. What’s equally striking is the cedar forest that surrounds the temple, which adds to its earthy appeal
Dedicated to the local deity and sage by the same name, Saint Vashist, the Vashist Temple on the banks of River Ravi is worth a stop. The temple showcases lovely wood carvings. The real attraction here is the therapeutic hot springs that are piped and cemented to make for a public bath.
Monasteries Overview
When in Manali, visit the Buddhist monasteries that have been set up here by the Tibetans and other followers of Buddhism. The monasteries offer tranquil surroundings and are also an excellent place to witness the Buddhist culture. Popular monasteries include the Manali Gompa, Gadhan Thekchoking Gompa and the Himalayan Nyingamapa Gompa.
"Manikaran Gurudwara, located in the small town of Manikaran, is one of the most prominent places of worship for Sikhs. Also known as Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurudwara, this shrine was built at the site where Guru Nanak Dev Ji came with his disciple Bhai Mardana for the welfare of the people. On his arrival, Bhai Mardana arranged some pulses and flour from the local people for langar. However, he could not arrange fire to cook the food. It was then that Guru Nanak Dev Ji asked him to remove a stone from the spot where he was sitting. The disciple did the same and was amazed to see an eruption of a spring of hot water. Guruji advised him to take the name of Almighty and donate prasada (food) he prepared from this hot water among the people.
"The Beas River, also known as Vipasha in Sanskrit, flows in Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. From its originating point (4361 m) in the Himalayas, this holy river passes through lush evergreen forests and hills before reaching Punjab. Here, it embraces the Satluj River and finally enters the territory of Pakistan, covering a total length of around 470 km. The river is the main drinking water source of the population living in Kullu, Mandi and Kangra regions.
The river bears testimony of many documented and undocumented historical events. It was the eastern limit of Alexander the Great's invasion of India in 326 BC. The tranquil environs of the river and riversides have incited many great sages, including Vashisht, Narad, Vishwamitra, Vyas, Prashar and Parshuram to meditate in the ancient times. Even today, the River Beas reflects the same charm, attracting tourists and pilgrims from different parts of the country to pay it a visit once in their lifetime.
A visit to Rozy Falls gives one the opportunity to spend moments of repose in Mother Nature's lap. The forested mountains and vast green valleys encircling the waterfall form a truly sensational backdrop. The awesome sight of Rozy Falls' white waters disgorging from a towering height creates precious and unforgettable memories on the minds of every onlooker. A visit to Rozy Falls is a must to make oneself believe that nature, indeed, can be this expressive! The best time to visit the falls is during the monsoons, when rain water fills the river and the waterfall grows to its maximum size.
Solang Nullah is a beautiful stream flowing through snow-covered mountain peaks, lofty trees and wild flowers in the Solang Valley. A serene place to spend moments of repose, Solang Nullah is the place where you find nature in its most artistic form. For family picnics, this site is no doubt, the ultimate place.
Van Vihar National Park is one of the most frequented attractions in Manali. Located favourably on the Mall Road, this park is populated with many deodar trees that provide shade to the whole area. For the convenience of visitors, the park is provided with concrete as well as wooden benches. It is an ideal place for enjoying picnics and spending moments of repose with your loved ones. Its well-laid paths are perfect for a long and refreshing stroll amid lush greenery. In addition to these, visitors can indulge in boat rides in the park's small pond
This beautiful lake is set amidst lush green Deodar forests at an altitude of 1,775 metres and exudes transcendence in peaceful surroundings.
Located at a distance of 2 kilometres away from McLeodganj Market, Dal Lake is just a walk away and also happens to be a major attraction for trekkers as it serves as a base camp for several trekking expeditions. But if you don’t want to walk all the way, you can also go by car or taxi.
The lake is also known for a popular temple of Lord Shiva that’s located on its banks.
The Kangra Fort is a majestic sample of architecture, which was constructed by the royal family of Kangra and dates back to around 4th Century B.C. This is known to be the largest fort in the Himalayas and is one of the oldest forts in India.
This ancient fort is located about 20 kilometres away from Dharamshala and houses a few temples that can be accessed by passing through seven gates. A major tourist attraction at the Kangra Fort is the magnificent view of the Manjhi and Banganga rivers from here.
Right next to the Fort is also the Maharaja Sansar Chand Katoch Museum, which is run by the Royal Family of Kangra.
Also called Bhagsu Falls, this site houses the famous Bhagsunath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This is a famous tourist attraction and also an important place for Hindu pilgrims.
The cascading waterfalls, about 20 metres in height, are an absolute marvel to look at, especially during the monsoons. There is a nice cafeteria next to the falls and the area serve as an excellent picnic spot for tourists. Bhagsunag Falls are located about 2 kilometres away from McLeodganj and are best visit while on a trek, although you can also drive up to Bhagsu village.
The Kangra Art Museum is a fascinating museum displaying artifacts from Tibetan and Buddhist cultures. Inaugurated in 1990, the museum has preserved a treasure trove from Kangra valley’s cultural past, crafts, arts and other ancient artifacts including miniature paintings, temple carvings, fabrics and embroidery, weapons, and palanquins belonging to local royalty.
It has a collection of rare pottery, coin memorabilia, sculptures and anthropological materials. It showcases jewelry of various tribes, embroidered costumes and wooden carvings. Some of the items displayed in the museum go back to 5th century. A section in the museum is also dedicated to contemporary artists and photographers.
Located close to the bus station in Dharamshala, you can spend about an hour exploring the museum.
One of the most famous monasteries in Tibet, the Gyuto Monastery is known for its study of Tantric meditation, Tantric ritual arts and Buddhist philosophy. It was founded in Tibet in 1474 by the main disciple of the first Dalai Lama, Jetsun Kunga Dhondup. After the communist Chinese invasion in 1959, the monastery was re-established in India.
The monks here practice the major Tantric texts including Guhyasamaja, Chakrasamvara and Yamantaka. They have passed these lineages on to the younger generation of monks for more than 500 years.
The main chamber of the monastery has a majestic statue of the Buddha and with the backdrop of the snow-clad mountains, this is an extremely serene and peaceful place to spend an afternoon.
Norbulingka Institute was founded near Dharamshala in 1988 for preserving Tibetan culture, literature and art. The institute is named after Norbulingka, the summer residence of the Dalai Lamas in Lhasa, Tibet.
The institute primarily works towards carrying on Tibetan traditions and heritage by providing training, education and employment to Tibetans in the region. Norbulingka produces high quality art objects, clothing and home furnishings.
The institute also has the two-storeyed 'Seat of Happiness Temple' (Deden Tsuglakhang) set amidst the Japanese inspired Norbulingka gardens. It is especially known for its 1,173 murals of Buddha, frescoes of all the Dalai Lamas and drawings from the life of the 14th Dalai Lama.
You can take a free guided tour of the institute on any day except on Sunday. Those interested in studying the Tibetan arts can also enroll into short-term workshops here. Norbulingka’s art studios include Tibetan statue making, Thangka painting, screen-printing,
applique and tailoring, woodcarving, wood painting, papermaking, and wood and metal craft.
Jwalamukhi Devi Temple Overview
Jwalamukhi is one of the most renowned ancient temples of Goddess Durga. It is believed that Sati's tongue fell here and the goddess is manifest as small blue flames that burn through fissures in the old rock.
There is no idol is located in the temple and Jwalamukhi, or the deity of flaming mouth, is worshipped in the form of flames coming out of the rock. There is a small platform in front of the temple and a huge brass bell that was presented by the King of Nepal. The temple also has a mystic Yantra or diagram of the goddess, which is covered with, shawls and ornaments.
The puja in the temple goes on almost the whole day with the aarti being performed five times in a day, and the havan once.
The temple has the most beautiful location with the Dhauladhar range in the backdrop. It is found on a small offshoot on the Dharamshala-Shimla road about 20 kilometres from the Jwalamukhi Road Railway Station. Jwalamukhi temple is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas and thousands of pilgrims visit the temple every year to seek the blessings of the goddess.
Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts Overview
The Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) is responsible for preserving and promoting Tibet’s unique tradition of performing arts. After the Chinese occupation, His Holiness the Dalai Lama felt it was important to safeguard the traditional performing arts of Tibet so that they are not lost forever.
That is why TIPA, which was established in August 1959, has been spreading awareness and engagement around Tibetan culture and
civilization. The institute has many members, including artistes, instructors, administrative staff and craftsmen, all of whom live on the institute’s premises.
One of the major highlights of the institute is the annual Shoton Opera Festival, which is a 9-day long celebration of Traditional Tibetan Opera or Lhamo. One Lhamo performance lasts up to 6 hours.
Apart from the performances, the institute also has a research section that is responsible for documenting and archiving the literature, picture, audio as well as visual components of Tibetan Operatic culture, dance and music.
Naam Art Gallery Overview
This is a great place for art lovers, located about 32 kilometres away from the town. The gallery was opened by Elizabeth
Buschmann from Germany, and displays paintings by her as well as A.W. Hallett, an English painter.
While Buschmann uses watercolours and acrylics, Hallett’s works are made using oil paints. Hallett died in 1986, and a large number of his are owned by the Himachal Pradesh Government. You can also buy paintings here or even order them online if you like.
Tea Gardens Overview
The Kangra Valley in Himachal is known for its beautiful natural landscapes and the spectacular range of Dhauladhar. In the foothills of this region you will find India’s smallest tea region.
Spread over acres of land, the tea gardens are a scenic natural site. While there isn’t much to do here, you can easily spend a couple of hours here just soaking in the peaceful environment. You can also pick up some fresh mountain tea from here.
