MUSSORIE

Mussorie is an Hill Station in Northern India.  This is one of the beautiful Hill Stations in India near to Himalayas in the state of Uttar Khand in India. In fact Mussorie is a land of  sublime tranquility. Feel the serenity of pristine valleys and listen to the wind whispering through the Deodar and pine trees. This hill station is also known as Queen of Himalayas. It is situtated at a height of 1880 meters or 6170 feet with green valleys and blue mountains with a touch of Himalayan range in Shivalik Mountains.

                                                                                                                                                                                                  

The name Mussoorie is often attibuted to a derivation of  Mansoori

a shrub which is indigenous to the area. The town is in fact often referred to as 'Mansoori' by most Indians.



Tourism is the most important economy for Mussorie. Many locals earnings depend upon tourits.It has a nature walk known as "Camel's Back Road". This road takes its name from a rocky outcrop in the shape of a camel's hump. Along the road, a cemetery is located about mid-way on the loop. There is also "Gun Hill" where a cannon was used to sound out midday for many years. Gun Hill is accessible by the cable car on the Mall road. The oldest Christian church in the Himalayas, St Mary's, is situated above Mall Road, and is currently undergoing restoration. Kempty Falls is a nice picnic spot. Company Garden is popular tourist destination. During season, the Company Garden has a vast collection of flowers and plants. Happy Valley has a small Tibetan temple. This was the first Tibetan temple built in India. The temple was constructed in 1960 by the Tibetan refugees. Lal Tibba is another tourist spot of Mussoorie. Picturesque DHANOULTI hill station is about 32 kilometres from Mussoorie. Mussoorie also had India's largest roller skating rink.

Nahata Estate
Previously known as "Childer's Lodge" is a huge property of more than 300 acres. It is the highest peak of Mussoorie near Lal Tibba, it is situated at 5 km from the Tourist Office and one can go on horse back or on foot. The view of snow-clad mountains is exhilarating.

GunHill
Second highest point of Mussoorie, at an altitude of 2024m.

 KEMPTY FALLS

The Kempty Falls are situated on the hilly tracks of Uttarakhand, India, 15 km from Mussoorie on the Chakrata Road. This place is located nearly 1364 meters above sea level at 78°-02’East longitude and 30° -29’North latitude.

Lake Mist
About 5 km before Kempty Falls on the Mussoorie-Kempty road is a good picnic spot with accommodation and restaurant facilities; boating is also available. With the Kempty river flowing through it, Lake Mist has many small waterfalls .

Municipal Garden
Is a picnic spot having a garden and an artificial mini lake with paddle boating facility. It is located at a distance of 4 km by rickshaw cycles, pony or by a car and 2 km via Waverly Convent School road on foot.

Mussoorie Lake
A newly developed picnic spot build by City Board & Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority, is situated at 6 km on Mussoorie-Dehradun road having a facility of pedaled boats. It offers a view of Doon Valley and nearby villages.

 

Bhatta Falls
7 km from Mussoorie on Mussoorie-Dehradun Road near Bhatta Village. Accessible by car or bus up to Bhatta from where the fall is 3 km by foot. A fall with different ponds for bathing and water amusements, an ideal place for a picnic.

Jharipani Fall
Located at 8.5 km from Mussoorie on Mussoorie-Jharipani road. One can go by local bus or car up to Jharipani from where the fall is about 1.5 km on foot.

Mossy Fall
The fall is surrounded by a dense forest and is 7 km from Mussoorie. One can go there via Barlowganj or Balahisar.

Sir George Everest's House
Park Estate is where one can find the remains of the building and laboratory of Sir George Everest, the Surveyor-General of India from 1830 to 1843. It is after George Everest that the world's highest peak Mt. Everest is named.^[3] It is 6 km from Gandhi Chowk / Library Bazaar and is accessible by vehicle, although the road is very rough beyond Haathi Paon. The place provides a view of Doon Valley on one side and a panoramic view of the Aglar River valley and the snow peaks of the Himalayan ranges on the other. It is a scenic walk from Library Bazaar, and a picnic spot.

Nag Devta Temple
An ancient temple dedicated to Snake God Lord Shiva and is situated on Cart Mackenzie Road about 6 km from Mussoorie on the way to Dehradun. Vehicles can go right up to the temple. This place provides an enchanting view of Mussoorie and the Doon Valley.

Jwalaji Temple (Benog Hill)
Situated at an altitude of 2240 m, this temple is 9 km west of Mussoorie. It is situated on the top of Benog Tibba (Hill) and contains an old idol of Goddess Durga. There is a view of the Aglar River valley. It cannot be accessed by vehicle although a motor road goes most of the way from Mussoorie.

Clouds End
This hotel is surrounded by thick deodar forest. The bungalow, built in 1838 by a British major, was one of the first four buildings of Mussoorie and has now been converted into a hotel. The place provides peace and calm and is full of flora and fauna.

Van Chetna Kendra
11 km to the South of library point lies an old sanctuary established in 1993 and covering an area of 339 hectares. It is famous for the extinct bird species Mountain Quail (Pahari Bater), which was last spotted in 1876.
Mussoorie is a popular destination for honeymooning couples, mainly because of its relatively cool climes and calm and lovely environment

How to get there:

By Road: 1) From Delhi is a 4 and Half hours drive with a distance of 268 KMs.
                 2)From Dehradun it is 35 minutes having distance of 31 KMs.
By Air   :  Nearest Air port is Dehradun.
By Train:  Dehradun is nearest Railway Station connected with all Major cities in INDIA.

Best time to visit Mussorie is from September to June in every year.

YOUR RAILWAY TICKET WILL NEVER BE CONFIRMED IN INDIA

YOUR RAILWAY TICKET WHETHER BOOKED AT WINDOW OR FROM IRCTC, WILL NEVER BE CONFIRMED.
YOUR WAITING BEFORE 60 DAYS WILL REMAIN AS IT IS LIKE THAT EVEN ON THE DATE OF JOURNEY.
WHY
READ THIS ITEM PUBLISHED IN MID-DAY ON 15-10-2012.
THIS IS HORRIBLE
READ....

October 15, 2012,

Mumbai

The 1.35 lakh agents appointed by the IRCTC book tickets in advance and then charge customers large sums; this means that direct bookings rarely get confirmed 

Tired of booking train tickets and not knowing if they are confirmed till the eleventh hour? If your answer is yes, then here’s who you should blame: the growing breed of railway agents in the city, whose numbers have multiplied almost a hundredfold in the past six years.

A query filed under the Right to Information (RTI) Act by activist Manoranjan Roy has revealed some disturbing numbers, which indicate that agents are monopolising ticket bookings, making direct access almost impossible.

The response reveals that every month, an average of over one crore tickets are being booked by these agents. Between 2006 and 2012, their numbers have shot up from a modest 1,537 to a stupendous 1,35,157 — in the Mumbai division alone. Meanwhile, passengers languish in the waiting list, even if they make bookings three months in advance.
All these agents have been appointed by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC).
“It’s the same situation for a majority of passengers. They want to know why their bookings aren’t confirmed, and where the tickets are being tied up,” said Roy. He added that these agents charge huge amounts for confirmed tickets, making the most of the demand that they create by booking most of the tickets.
Roy is of the opinion that railway authorities have been turning a blind eye to the obvious black-marketing of tickets. “There is no vigilance on the agents. The black money taken by the agents from passengers desperate for tickets is not recorded. Though officially IRCTC has written that they don’t pay any commission to the agents authorised by them,” added Roy.
One of the reasons that the railways has suddenly spawned such a large drove of booking agents is the faltering online booking system on the IRCTC website.

We have been getting complaints that the website does not work properly and even after completing all the formalities and providing details like credit card numbers, the tickets don’t get booked. The passenger is left with no option but to approach the agent,” said a Railway official, requesting anonymity.
“No foolproof facilities are available for the aam aadmi. Those who can shell out money have access to special facilities. What about the passenger who can’t afford to book tickets through agents? Why doesn’t the railway do something for the common man?” asked Roy.
Roy also questioned the IRCTC for not doing anything to curb the superfluous numbers of agents, and instead continuing to appoint them.
“Why don’t they stick to online and window booking systems and enforce them strictly?” he said.
Subodh Jain, general manager of Central Railway, said, “The agents are appointed by the IRCTC and they know about the procedures. More people book tickets online these days. So, there are more agents connecting to it.”
Virender Singh, group general manager, IRCTC, said, “We are not controlling agents.” He refused to shed further light on the matter.
Expertspeak
Madhu Kotian, president of the Yatri Pravasi Sangh said, “The agent system should be discontinued by the railways. Nobody is benefiting from this.”
Rajiv Singhal, member, Zonal Railway Users Consultative Committee (ZRUCC), said, “The Railway should think of an alternative to agents. Also, they should decrease the 120 days prior ticket booking system. I don’t think that anybody but the agent benefits from this provision as very few can plan their trip four months in advance.”

Speak
Vipin Mishra, frequently travels to Varanasi
I am with many agents and sometimes I feel I should also become one. I have bought tickets at Rs 800 over the actual price. This is what the agents charge for tickets. This figure increases with demand. The railway authorities should put an end to this system and they will be able to earn more from direct booking.”
Janhavi Shah, final year student
My parents always ask me to book the tickets. It would be convenient if I could book the tickets online. I have even sat waiting for the tatkal quota to open, but as soon as I log in it gets full. The railway authorities should stop giving tickets to agents.”
Renu Shukla, Kandivli resident
Whenever I book tickets through the window or online, they never reach confirmed status. I don’t know why the railway authorities always harasses the common public. I know of many people who have faced problems similar to mine, and don’t have access to agents.

IN SUCH CORRUPT SITUATION WHAT COMMON MAN CAN DO ? ? ? ? ? ? ?

 

RATNAGAD NEAR PUNE (PHOTOS)

Next Time you plan for outing remember this beautiful place...........Ratnagad is just 100 km from Pune.

LAKES IN SHIMLA

RENUKA LAKE

LOCATION: Renuka lake (672 m) is connected by road and lies in Sirmour district. It is 123 k.m. from Parwanoo, 60 k.m. from Paonta Sahib and 37 k.m. from Nahan. With a circumference of 3214m, Renukaji is the largest natural lake in Himachal. Shaped like the profile of a reclining woman, this is regarded as the embodiment of the goddess Renuka. Near the lake's feet is another lake held sacred to her son, Parshurama. Both have temples built around them and the main temple to Renuka is regarded to have been built overnight in eighteen century. The lake lies in a long valley and surrounding slopes are covered with thick woods. Boating facility is available at the lake.ACCOMMODATION: The HPTDC has hotel Renuka ji near by. Dadahu (2 k.m.) has hotels, PWD and forest rest houses.

REWALSAR LAKE

LOCATION: At an altitude of 1360 m in district Mandi, 24 k.m. from Mandi town. It is square shaped with a shoreline of 735 m, this dark jewel rests on a mountain spur and is protected by a dense vegetation. The spot is held sacred by Hindus, Sikhs and Buddhists alike. Legend has it that the great teacher and 'Tatric'.Padmasambhava used his enormous power to take fight to Tibet from Rewalsar. Also known as Guru Rimpoche, it was under Padmasambhava's influence that Mahayana Buddhism took root in Tibet at Rewalsar, his spirit is said to reside in the tiny island of floating reed that drifts over the water. There are three Buddhist monasteries at Rewalsar. Rewalsar has three Hindu temples which are dedicated to Lord Krishna, Lord Shiva and to the sage Lomas. A small zoo is maintained near the lake. The lake of Kunt Bhyog (1750 m above sea level) lies above Rewalsar as do six other lakes of mythology. These are associated with the escape of 'Pandavs' from the burning palace of wax-an episode from the epic, Mahabharta.ACCOMODATION: HPTDC's Hotel Rewalsar, private hotels and rest houses.

KHAJJIAR LAKE

LOCATION: At an altitude of 1900 metres in district Chamba, 16 k.m. from Dalhousue and 25 k.m. from Chamba. Fed by tiny streams,this small lake lies at in the centre of large Khajjiar glade. The glade and the lake are held sacred to Khajjinag- after whom the place is named. Khajjiar has thick forest of the Kalatope sanctury surrounding its soft green grass.ACCOMODATION: HPTDC's hotel Devdar, hotels in the private sector and rest houses are available.

CHAMERA LAKE
LOCATION: In district Chamba, this is the reservoir of the Chamera dam built over the river Ravi. Phase-I of the project generates 540 MW of electricity. Phase-II which is under way will add another 300 MW. The lake offers a variety of water sports.

DASHIR LAKE
LOCATION: At an altitude of 4270 metres near the Rohtang pass that connects district Kullu and Lahaul. Also known as Dashaur and Sarkund this attractive lake has a depth of 3 metres.

SERUVALSAR LAKE
LOCATION: At an altitude of 3100 metres in district Kullu 20 k.m. from Ani in the direction of the jalori pass. This lake has a picturesque setting amidst pine forest.ACCOMODATION: Hotels and Rest houses at Kullu and Shoja.

PRASHAR LAKE
LOCATION: At an altitude of 2730 metres in district Mandi, 40 k.m. from Mandi town. The deep blue water at this beautiful lake is held sacred to the sage Prashar. A three tiered Pagoda-like temple dedicated to the sage lies by the lake - 'rishi' Prashar is said to have meditated here. Its remarkable setting is enhanced by a frame of snow draped peaks visible from the lake's edge, the water of the river Sutlej flows due south. The lake side and the near by villages are sites of various festival held at different times of the year.

BHRIGU LAKE
LOCATION: At an altitude of 4235 metres in district Kullu, this lies east of the Rohtang Pass and is about 6 k.m. from the village of Gulaba. The shores of this clear water lake are devoid of human habitation-yet it is visited regularly by the people of the area and is held sacred to 'rishi' Brighu. It also lies on several trek routes of the region.

MANIMAHESH LAKE
LOCATION: At an altitude of 4080 metres in district Chamba, 32 k.m. from Bharmaur. Held sacred to Lord Shiva this lake has in the Bundhil valley at the foot of Manimahesh ranges. The peaks of Manimahesh Kailash is regarded as one of the mythical abodes of Shiva. This is the venue of annual Manimahesh yatra.

NAKO LAKE
LOCATION: At an altitude of 3662 metres in the pooh sub-division of district Kinnaur. The lake is surrounded by willow and poplar trees - the village seems to be half buried by the lake's borders. On the northern side, are four Buddhist temples with stucco image impressions ascribed to saint Padmasambhava.

SURAJ TAL LAKE
LOCATION: At an altitude of 4950 metres below the summit of the Baralacha pass in the Lahaul division of district Lahaul and Spiti. The Baralacha connects Mandi and Lahaul to Ladakh and the lake which draws a considerable number of visitors - especially in summer - lies by its head. This is the source of river Bhaga.

CHANDRA TAL LAKE
LOCATION: At an altitude of 4300 metres and 6 k.m. from the Kunzum Pass in Lahaul & Spiti district that connects Spiti and Lahaul areas. Surrounded by snows and acres of scree, this deep blue-water lake has a circumference of 2.5 k.m. This is the source of the river Chandra. According to some believers, this is the spot from where the god Indra's chariot took the eldest Pandava brother, Yudhishtra to 'swarga' (heaven) in his mortal form.

GOBIND SAGAR
LOCATION: This vast reservoir lies in the district of Bilaspur and Una.The town of Bilaspur is 83 k.m. from the railway station at Anandpur Sahib. The Gobind Sagar on river Sutlej, has been created by the huge hydel dam at Bhakra and is named in honour of Gobind Singh the Tenth Sikh guru. One of the world's highest gravity dams, the Bhakra rises 225.5 m above its lowest foundations. Under the supervision of the famous American dam-builder, Harvey Slocum, work began in 1955 and was completed in 1962. Incidentally, Slocum had no formal training as an engineer, but his conceptions and designs have proven successful. To maintain the level of water, the flow of river Beas was also channeled to Gobind Sagar by the Beas-Sutlej link which was completed in 1976. Today, this dam feeds electricity and water to a large area the Gobind Sagar reservoir is 90 k.m. long and encompasses an area of approximately 170 sqkm. There are provisions for water sports speed boats and ferry rides. In October and November, when the water level of the reservoir is at its peak, a series of regattas are also organizing by the department of Tourism and Civil Aviation. Water-skiing, sailing, kayaking and water scooter racing are popular water sports activities during this period.ACCOMODATION: Bilaspur has both hotels and rest houses.

MAHARANA PRATAP SAGAR
LOCATION: Maharana Pratap Sagar is at 450 metres above sea level, 32 degrees North and 76 degrees East, In district Kangra, 170 Km from Chandigarh, 110 Km from the district headquarters Dharamshala. The closest railway stations are Mukerian- 30 Km, and Pathankot- 32 Km. The Settlements of Nagrota Suriyan and Jawalaji located on the Sagar’s periphery are connected by the charming Narrow gauge Kangra Railway Line that connects Pathankot to Joginder Nagar. The closest airport is Gaggal- 40 Kms. The Lake is well served by a Network of roads. Named in honour of great patriot Maharana Partap(1572-97 A.D.), Maharana Partap Sagar was once known as Pong Dam Reservoir. Its Reservoir has an area of 45,000 hects at maximum flooding-the level varies with every season and averages around 30,000 hects. Over 200 villages with a population of 85,000 people are scattered along the wetland. In 1983, the Sagar was declared a Wild Life Sanctuary and over 220 species of birds belonging to 54 families have been sighted over the waters and these include black headed gulls, plovers, terns, ducks. The land portion of the Sanctuary has barking dear, sambar, wild boars, leopards and claw-less others. 27 Species and sub species of fish belonging to six families have been recorded in the Sagar’s water. There is a branch of Directorate of Mountaineering and Allied Sports at the Sagar and year around activities include swimming, water skiing, surfing , rowing and sailing. The Directorate of Tourism and Civil Aviation provides equipment at the Sagar – this includes sale boats, paddle boats, speed aero boats. Various courses – beginners, intermediate and advanced – are also conducted at the Sagar.ACCOMODATION: Hotels, Guest Houses, Forest and PWD Rest Houses are available at nearly Dharamshala, Dehra, Sansarpur Terrace, Dada Siba and Nagrota Surian.

DAL LAKE
LOCATION: At an altitude of 1775 metres in district Kangra 11 k.m. from Dharamshala, surrounded by deodar trees, this is on the motor road to Talnu. Held sacred, this has a small shiva temple on its banks. The banks of the lake are enlivened during September by a fair attended-amongst other-by a large number of Gaddi folk.ACCOMODATION: Hotels and rest houses. The HPTDC has hotels both at Dharamshala and Mcleodganj.

SHIMLA - Trek Routes

Himachal Tourism has identified some exciting treks each with a new experience, which leads from one Mountain to another of varying altitude, appearance and formation, from a pine covered slopes to cold deserts under the expert guidance and care. The well trained camp team also offers warm hospitality and best services. Following is a list of treks, herbal treks, jeep safaris treks and mountaineering expeditions.

1)NAME OF THE TREK: Manali- Chamba- Sach Pass

Trek	Difficult
Maximum Height	3600 mts.
Requirements	Experience in difficult Trekking/ Mountaineering essential
Name of Trek	Manali- Chamba- Sach Pass
Period	May- June, September- October
Duration	9 Days

2) NAME OF THE TREK: Bharmaur – Kugti – Udaipur- Manali trek

Trek	Difficult
Maximum Height	5040 Mtrs.
Requirements	Experience in difficult Trekking essential
Name of Trek	Bharmaur – Kugti – Udaipur- Manali trek
Period	7 days

3) NAME OF THE TREK : Dharamsala – Nayagraon trek

Trek	Difficult
Maximum Height	3693 Mtrs.
Requirement	Pass trekking experience essential
Name of the Trek	Dharamsala – Nayagraon trek
Period	June to October
Duration	10 days

4) NAME OF THE TREK: Maidi to Nadaun (Hamirpur)

Trek	Moderate
Requirement	Experience in Trekking/ Mountaineering essential
Name of the Trek	Maidi to Nadaun (Hamirpur)
Period	November- March
Duration	5 days

5) NAME OF THE TREK : Hamirpur- Deotsidh- Sri Naina Devi

Trek	Moderate
Requirement	Experience in Trekking essential
Name of the Trek	Hamirpur- Deotsidh- Sri Naina Devi
Period	November- March
Duration	9 days

6) NAME OF THE TREK : Kinner Kailash Parikrama

Trek	Moderate
Maximum Height	5242 Mts.
Requirement	(Limited past experience in trekking essential)
Name of Trek	Kinner Kailash Parikrama
Period	May- September
Duration	7 Days

7) NAME OF THE TREK : Manali- Hamya Herbal Trek

Trek	Moderate
Maximum Height	4268 Mtrs.
Requirement	Limited Past experience in trekking essential
Name of the Trek	Manali- Hamya Herbal Trek
Period	June to September
Duration	8 days

8) NAME OF THE TREK : Morchella

Trek	Moderate
Maximum Height	4116 Mtrs.
Requirement	Limited Past experience in trekking essential
Name of the Trek	Morchella
Period	June to October
Duration	10 days

9) NAME OF THE TREK : Dharamsala- Chhota Bhangal over sari Pass Kullu

Trek	Moderate
Maximum Height	3760 Mtrs.
Requirement	experience in trekking essential
Name of the Trek	Dharamsala- Chhota Bhangal over sari Pass Kullu
Period	May- June, September- October
Duration	8 days

10) NAME OF THE TREK : Wild Trek (Kullu Valley)

Trek	Moderate
Maximum Height	3980 Mts.
Requirement	(Limited past experience in trekking essential)
Name of Trek	Wild Trek (Kullu Valley)
Period	May, June, August, September, October & November
Duration	6 Days

For other treks and detaisl regarding how to participate, please log on to:

http://www.himachaltourism.nic.in/trek.htm

SHIMLA - Ther Queen of Hills

Shimla, was the Summer capital of India under British rule . Presently, it is the state capital of Himachal Pradesh, with its population around 1.6 lacs (Shimla town only). Shimla has seen many important historical events such as the famous Shimla Pact between India & Pakistan which was signed here. The place is also famous for its natural beauty, architectural buildings, wooden crafts and apples

Shimla District lies between the longitude 77^o-0" and 78^o-19" east and latitude 30^o-45" and 31^o-44" north. It is bounded by Mandi and Kullu in the north, Kinnaur in the east, the state of Uttaranchal in the south, Sirmaur, district in the west. The elevation of the district ranges from 300 to 6000 metres. The topology of the district is rugged and tough. Shimla district derives its name from Shimla town which was once a small village. Shimla district in its present form came into existence from 1st Sept,1972 on the reorganisation of the districts of the state.

History of Shimla goes back to the period of Anglo-Gurkha war in the beginning of 19th century. In 1804 the Gurkhas , who had suffered a severe defeat at the hands of the Sikhs at the battle of Kangra, a hill fortress about sixty miles from Shimla, where according to some accounts they lost thousand of men in the fight and many others from disease, commenced to ravage the states and hills surrounding Shimla. Gurkhas built many forts around Shimla. One of these strongholds, the Jagatgarh fortress, was the origin of the modern Jutogh, the well known military cantonment adjoining Shimla. By 1808 the invaders had conquered all the fortified posts between the Jamuna and Satluj, and from their capital Arki began their ruthless rule over the neighbouring hill states, untill at length the people in their wretchedness appealed to the British for help. A small British force under Major General 'Sir David Ochterlony' was despatched to liberate the hill men from Gurkhas. Majority of hill chiefs responded to the call and joined the British forces. The rivals were engaged in the toughest battle at 3750 ft high Ramgarh fort at Nalagarh. A decisive battle took place near the fort at Malaon in which superior guns of the British overpowered the enemy. The battle of Malaon on 15th May 1815 ended the dream of the Gurkhas, to rule over this part of the land for any longer. After few days, an official declaration was made according to which all Chieftains who had joined British in expelling the Gurkhas were restored with their land under the British protection. The maharaja of Patiala who has also rendered invaluable services to the British was rewarded with land in the neighbourhood of the area now comprising Shimla. After the defeat of Gurkhas they were forced to sign the 'Treaty of Sanjauli' . The company retained the strategic forts of Sabathu, Kotgarh, Ramgarh and Sandoch.

Present day Shimla District comprises of 19 erstwhile hill states mainly Balson, Bushahr, Bhaji and Koti, Darkoti, Tharoch & Dhadi,Kumharsain, Khaneti & Delath, Dhami, Jubbal , Keothal, Rawingarh, Ratesh, Sangri.

Bushahr was one of the oldest of the hill states after Kashmir in the Western Himalayas. According to one legend .the Bushahr dynasty was founded by 'Pradhuman', the son of Lord Krishna. In order to marry the daughter of Banasur, the local chief of shonitpur(Sarahan), Pradhuman is said to have come to that place and after the death of Banasur in an encounter with him, he became the chief of Bushar and Kinnaur regions, since Banasur has no son. According to C.F.Kennedy , Bushar was founded by Danbar Singh an immigrant Rajput from Deccan in 1412 A.D. In 1914 Britishers recognised Padam Singh as legitimate heir and was crowned Raja of Rampur Bushahr. Ultimately in March, 1948 Rampur Bushahr became part and parcel of province of Himachal Pradesh.

Jubbal one of the Shimla Hill States with an area of 288 Sq miles was originally tributary to Sirmaur, but after Gurkha war, it became independent. Raja Karam Chand was the founder of the Jubbal State. Jubbal merged with the Indian Union after independence and became a part of Himachal Pradesh on 15th April, 1948. at the time of merger 'Dig Vijay Singh ' was the ruler of the state.

Shimla District in its present form came into existence from 1st September 1972 on the reorganisation of the districts of the state. After the reorganisation , the erstwhile Mahasu district lost its entity and its major portion was merged with Shimla. Shimla district derives its name from Shimla town, the district headquarters and now state capital of Himachal Pradesh

The Shimla District comprises of 7 Sub-Divisions, 12 Tehsils and
5 Sub Tehsils.

Shimla Town

Shimla is the Capital Town of Himachal Pradesh. It was formerly the summer capital during the British Rule. The town of Shimla is built over several hills and connecting ridges. The important hills are Jakhu(8050 ft), Prospect Hill (7140 ft), Observatory Hill ( 7050 ft), Elysium Hill (7400 ft), and Summer Hill (6900 ft). There is a great controversy over the origin of the name Shimla. The name Shimla was derived from 'Shyamalaya' meaning blue house said to be the name of house built of blue slate by a faqir on Jakhu. According to one version Shimla takes it name from 'Shamla' meaning a blue female another name for Goddess Kali. The place was on the Jakhu Hillside, there was a temple of Goddess Kali. During the British period the image of the Goddess was shifted to a new place ,now famous Kali Bari Temple. Shimla remained unnoticed during the Gurkha War. It was only in 1819 A.D. that the then Assistant Political Agent of hill states Lt. Ross set up first British residence, a mere wood cottage. His successor Lt. Charles Patt Kennedy' errected the first pucca house in 1822 named after Lt. Kennedy as 'Kennedy House'.

The construction of Hindustan Tibet road was started in 1850-51 commencing from Kalka and first lap was upto Shimla. The Road upto Shimla came to be used for wheeled traffic by 1860. A 560 feet long tunnel was constructed beyond Sanjauli.

In 1864 Shimla was declared as the summer capital of India. After Independence, Shimla became the capital of Punjab and was later named the capital of Himachal Pradesh. In 1903 a rail line was constructed between Kalka and Shimla.

Shimla has been blessed with all the natural bounties, one can think of. Dwelling on a panoramic location, the hilly town is surrounded by green pastures and snow-capped peaks. The spectacular cool hills accompanied by the structures made during the colonial era create an aura, which is very different from other hill stations. Bulging at its seams with unprecedented expansion, Shimla retains its colonial heritage, with grand old buildings, among them are the stately Viceregal Lodge, Charming iron lamp posts and Anglo-Saxon names. The Mall, packed with shops and eateries, is the centre of attraction of the town, and Scandal Point, associated with the former Maharaja of Patiala's escapades, offers a view of distant snow clad peaks. In 1946 leaders of the Indian nationalist movement came to Shimla for a crucial conference that paved the way to Independence. Shimla’s legacy of British control has left in somewhat of Aesthetic anomaly: an Indian town, a state capital, no less that looks and feels like a village in Northern England.

The completion of the Kalka-Shimla narrow-gauge railway line, in 1903, gave a fillip to the towns development. After Independence, Shimla was initially the capital of Punjab. Following the creation of Himachal Pradesh, in 1966, it was designated the capital of the Himachal Pradesh.

GENERAL INFORMATION

AREA: 5131 sq. km

POPULATION: 7.22 lakh

THE RIDGE: The large open space in the heart of town presents excellent view of the mountain ranges. Shimla's landmarks-the Neo-Gothic structure of Christ Church and the new-Tudor library building are worth seeing.

THE MALL: Main shopping centre of shimla with restaurants. the Gaiety Theatre, which is a reproduction of an old British theatre is a center of cultural activities. A passenger lift of HPTDC can be taken from the Cart Road and the Mall. Lakkar Bazaar adjacent to the Ridge is popular for its wood crafts and souvenirs.

KALI BARI TEMPLE: Few yards from scandal Point towards General Post Office. It is believed that the idol of Goddess Shayamla is enshrined there.


JAKHOO TEMPLE (2.5 Km) 2455 m: Shimla's highest peak offers a panoramic view of the town. An ancient "Lord Hanuman" temple. Way from Ridge near Church (on foot) One can also hire pony or taxi to visit the temple.

STATE MEUSEUM (3 Km): Ancient Historical Sculptors and paintings of Himachal Pradesh. Visiting hours 10 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Monday and gazetted holidays.

INDIAN INSTITUTE OF ADVANCED STUDIES (4 Km) 1983 m: This magnificent English renaissance structure was the former Viceregal Lodge. Its lawns and woodland are added attractions. Entry by ticket.

PROSPECT HILL (5 Km) 2155 m: Crowned by a temple dedicated to Kamna Devi 15 minutes walk from Boileauganj on shimla Bilaspur road. the hill offers a spectacular views of the area.

SUMMER HILL (7 Km) 1983 m: A picturesque superb on Shimla-Kalka Railway line. Offers shady walks in quiet surroundings. The Father of Nation, Mahatma Gandhi during his visit to Shimla lived in the elegant Georgian House of Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur. HP University is situated here.

CHADWICK FALLS (7 Km) 1586 m: Surrounded by thick forests. About 45 minutes walk from Summer Hill Chowk.

SANKAT MOCHAN (7 Km) 1975 m: On Shimla-Kalka road (NH-22) is famous "Lord Hanuman" temple. It commands an excellent view of Shimla town. The place can be visited by Bus/Taxi.

TARA DEVI (11 Km) 1851 m: On Shimla - Kalka road (NH-22) this holy place is accessible by Rail, bus and car. From the station/road-one can visit the temple either on foot or by taxi / jeep.

FAGU (22 Km) 2450 m: On Hindustan-Tibet Road. It has enchanting views. Himachal Tourism runs the Hotel peach Blossom.

NARKANDA (60 Km) 2708 m: On the Hindustan Tibet road, Narkanda offers spectacular views of snow ranges. An uphill trek through Deodar woods leads to Hatu Peak (8 Km). Ancient temple of Hatu Mata is alive with skiers. HPTDC runs Hotel Hatu and in winters short skiing courses are organised.

KOTGARH (82 Km) 1830 m: Motorable, bifurcation from Narkanda (18 Km) Land of apples and apricots.

RAMPUR (140 Km) 924 m: On the Hindustan Tibet Road. Once the capital of the Princely State of Bushahr, the town is situated on the banks of Satluj river, Big Commercial Centre and famous International Lavi fare which is held in November every year, Dumgir Buddhist Temple, Padam Palace, Raghunath Temple, Ayodhya temple and Narsingh Temple, are worth visiting. Himachal Tourism runs a tourist Complex and air conditioned Cafe, Satluj.

SARAHAN (176 Km) 1950 m: On Hindustan Tibet Road from Jeori Sarahan is (17 Km) with spectacular view of Srikhand range. Sarahan has the majestic Bhimkali Temple. Himachal Tourism runs Hotel Shrikhand. Saharan is the gateway to Kinnaur. A Pheasant Breading Centre and stadium are worth visiting.

KHARAPATHHAR (85 Km) 2673 m: Motorable on Shimla-Rohru road. A famous religious shrine Giriganga is 7 Km on foot or by jeep. HPTDC Tourist complex Giriganga Resort under construction.

JUBBAL (90 Km) 1892 m: Headquarters of the erstwhile Princely State, Jubbal has a superbly maintained Palace which was designed by a French architect in the 1930 and is remarkable mix of European and indigenous styles.

HATKOTI (104 Km) 1400 m: Motorable on shimla-Rohru highway. Famous for ancient temple of Mata Hateswari in the midst of paddy fields on the right bank of the Pabber river. HPTDC runs Hotel Pabber here.

MASHOBRA (12 Km) 2148 m: Motorable on Shimla-Naldehra road. Surrounded by thick forests and offers ideal walks. Goddess Durga temple is worth seeing.

CRAIGNANO (18 Km) 2149 m: Motorable on Shimla-Naldhera road, Ideal picnic spot with lawns and garden.

NALDEHRA (22 Km) 2044 m: Motorable On Shimla Tattapani road. this is a nine hole golf course. It was designed by the British viceroy, Lord Curzon who was so enchanted by this place that he gave his daughter Alexandra, Naldehra as her second name. Ancient Nag temple is also situated here. Himachal Tourism runs Hotel Golf Glade here.

TATTAPANI (65 Km) 680 m: Motorable on Shimla-Mandi Highway via Naldehra. Tattapani has hot water springs having sulpher contents, also Hindu temples and Shiv Goofa at Saraur (4 Km) are worth seeing places

CHINDI (94 Km) 2010 m: Motorable on Shimla-Mandi highway via Tattapani - A beautiful place in Karsog Valley. Himachal tourism's tourist Resort is opening shortly. One can also visit famous mahunag Temple (18 Km). Mamleshwar mahadev Temple (13 Km) Kamaksha Devi temple (19 Km) Pangna Killa/temple (8 Km) and Shikari Devi Temple (18 Km).

Climate Table

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mean daily maximum temperature (°C)	8	9	13	18	22	23	21	20	20	17	14	10
Mean daily temperature (°C)	4	5	9	14	18	19	18	17	16	14	10	6
Mean daily minimum temperature (°C)	1	2	6	10	14	15	15	15	13	12	6	3
Average number of rain days	4	5	4	4	4	9	17	17	7	2	1	2
Source: Weatherbase

KERALA - GOD'S OWN COUNTRY

Kerala is one of the most beautiful states in India on Arabian Coast. With the Arabian Sea in the west, the Western Ghats towering 500-2700 ms in the east and networked by 44 rivers, Kerala enjoys unique geographical features that have made it one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Asia. An equable climate. A long shoreline with serene beaches. Tranquil streches of emerald backwaters. Lush hill stations and exotic wildlife. Waterfalls. Sprawling plantations and paddy fields. Ayurvedic health holidays. Enchanting art forms. Magical festivals. Historic and cultural monuments. An exotic cuisine... All of which offer you a unique experience. And what's more, every one of these charming destinations is only a two hour drive from the other. A singular advantage no other destination offers.

Kerala, India's most advanced society : A hundred percent literate people. World-class health care systems. India's lowest infant mortality and highest life expectancy rates. The highest physical quality of life in India. Peaceful and pristine, Kerala is also India's cleanest state.

In Kerala, you can visit following places, which are enjoyable and must visit:

A cruise through the canals of AlappuzhaIf you are cherishing the idea of spending some good time, amidst the sights and sounds of the hydrosphere,...

Adyanpara: Located in the Kurumbalangode village of Nilambur taluk, Adyanpara is famous for its waterfalls...

Agasthyarkoodam: Location :70 km from Thiruvananthapuram. Attractions :Rare herbs and medicinal plants. ...

Akkulam Tourist Village: Location : About 10 km from Thiruvananthapuram city, south Kerala. Attractions: A ...

Alappuzha: Area: 1414 sq. km Population: 21,05,349(2001 census) Altitude: Sea level With the Arabian...

Alappuzha - Aquatourism: With the Arabian sea on the west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons and freshwater rivers ...

Alappuzha beach: Location: Alappuzha beach, near Alappuzha town, south Kerala.Referred to as the Venice of the East,...

Alathiyur Hanuman Temple: (12 km from Tirur): One of the famous Hanuman Temples in Kerala and also dedicated to Sree Rama and ...

Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple: (15 km south of Alappuzha)Built in the typical Kerala architectural style, this temple is famous all...

Ambalavayal Heritage Museum: Location:12 km south of Sulthan Bathery, Wayanad district. Visiting hours : 10:00 am to 5...

Amrithamedu: Amrithamedu, popularly known as Kurisumala is a pilgrim centre as well as a trekker’s delight. Peerumedu...

Ananthapura Lake Temple: 30 km from Bekal, this 9th century temple is the only lake temple in Kerala and is the moolas...

Anayirankal: (22 km from Munnar) It's a lush green carpet of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir...

Anchuvilakku (22 km from Kottayam): This stone lamp post, a typical example of Kerala architecture, was built near the Changanacherry bo...

Anjengo: Located about 36 Kms north of Thiruvananthapuram, near the famed beach of Varkala, and lying on the... Official website of Keral is : http://www.keralatourism.org