This temple has amazing architecture, but also a beautiful Shiva cave, which is a point of attraction for devotees from all over the world. Jatoli Shiv Temple, known as Asia’s best Shiv temple, is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites that fascinates its guests with its rich history and spiritual significance. It is located only 6 kilometers from the city center.

The Jatoli Shiv Temple is one of the earliest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and has a rich history full of legends and stories. Inside the temple is an ancient linga symbolizing the god, which is believed to have served as Shiva’s burial place in the past. These stories add an air of mystery and wonder to the atmosphere of the temple, captivating pilgrims and devotees alike. It is believed that Lord Shiva still resides in the temple.

Within the confines of the Jatoli Shiva Temple, not only is Lord Shiva worshipped, but other deities also make their home here. Idols of Mata Parvati, Ganesha, Karthikeya and Hanuman adorn this sacred place and bestow blessings upon the worshippers. It is important to mention that the temple was built through the generous donations of the devotees over the years, which amounted to thousands of rupees. This unique aspect of community participation in the temple adds to its attractiveness and makes it a masterpiece of architecture.

Near the temple, at the northeast corner, is the sacred water reservoir known as Jal Kund, considered as sacred as the holy river Ganges. The water in the aquarium is said to have medicinal properties, and is believed to be able to cure skin diseases of all kinds. The temple also contains a cave where Swami Krishnananda Paramhans Ji once resided, adding to the historical significance of the site. Every year, the temple hosts a large festival during the Mahashivratri festival, which attracts hundreds of people who pray and seek the blessings of God.

]]> https://tripadvisorexpert.com/churdhar-conquest-a-road-trip-and-trek-to-himachals-peak-of-bangle-snow/ Sat, 10 Sep 2022 18:46:26 +0000 https://tripadvisorexpert.com/?p=2604 The asphalt jungle of Chandigarh was calling for an escape. The constant honking and the suffocating fumes yearned for a breath of fresh mountain air, a challenge for the soul. This time, the call came from the mighty Churdhar Peak in Himachal Pradesh. Nicknamed “Choor Chandni Ki Dhar” (Peak of Bangle Snow), Churdhar promised an adventure unlike any other. Here’s my story of conquering this majestic peak in my own car, a journey that combined the freedom of the open road with the exhilarating challenge of the trek.

Hitting the Road: A Scenic Drive to Sirmaur

With the anticipation of adventure buzzing in my veins, I packed my car, a trusty companion for countless journeys. Leaving the city behind, I hit the open road, the first rays of dawn painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The highway transformed into a scenic route as I ventured deeper into Himachal. Lush green fields unfurled on either side, gradually giving way to rolling hills that promised a dramatic change in scenery. The crisp mountain air filled the car with a refreshing fragrance, a stark contrast to the city’s pollution.

Reaching Nahan: A Charming Town Steeped in History

The drive led me to Nahan, the gateway to Sirmaur district. This charming town, nestled amidst the foothills, offered a glimpse into Himachal’s rich history. I wandered through its narrow lanes, admiring the colonial-era architecture and soaking in the laid-back atmosphere. A local recommended a quaint cafe, where I savored a steaming cup of tea and freshly-baked cookies, fueling up for the adventure ahead.

The Final Stretch: Navigating to Nauradhar

Leaving Nahan behind, the road narrowed and snaked its way through the mountains. The scenery became even more breathtaking, with towering peaks piercing the clear blue sky.  Following the directions I had meticulously gathered, I navigated the winding roads, my car navigating the terrain like a seasoned explorer. Finally, after a thrilling drive, I reached Nauradhar, the base camp for the Churdhar trek.

A Warm Welcome: Unveiling Nauradhar’s Beauty

Nauradhar was a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Nestled amidst verdant hills, the village exuded a sense of serenity. Local women in colorful attire greeted me with warm smiles, and the aroma of freshly baked bread filled the air.  I checked into a cozy guesthouse, a traditional wooden structure with a breathtaking view of the valley below. The sight of the mountains bathed in the afternoon sun was a perfect prelude to the adventure that awaited.

Embracing the Challenge: The Trek Begins

The crisp mountain air invigorated my spirit as I embarked on the trek. The initial climb led me through a dense Deodar forest, its towering trees adorned with emerald moss creating a natural cathedral above. Sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting dappled patterns on the forest floor. The trail, carpeted with soft pine needles, offered a cushion underfoot, and the chirping of birds provided a delightful soundtrack to the journey.

Encountering the Gujjars: A Glimpse into Nomadic Life

As I ascended, the forest gradually gave way to verdant meadows dotted with colorful wildflowers. Here, I encountered a group of Gujjar nomads, a semi-nomadic tribe known for their rich culture and close connection to nature.  Their colorful tents, pitched amidst the meadows, added a vibrant touch to the landscape. I interacted with a friendly elder who shared fascinating stories about their nomadic way of life and their deep respect for the mountains. Their stories added a layer of cultural richness to my trek, reminding me of the diverse tapestry woven into the fabric of Himachal.

Reaching Tesi: A Campsite Under the Stars

After a few hours of moderate trekking, I arrived at Tesi, a small campsite at an altitude of around 3,000 meters. Surrounded by rolling meadows and breathtaking mountain vistas, Tesi offered a sense of serenity. As dusk approached, I pitched my tent, savoring the feeling of accomplishment and the anticipation of the summit climb that awaited me the next day. Under a dazzling canvas of stars, I huddled around a crackling bonfire with fellow trekkers, sharing stories and forging new friendships. The camaraderie and warmth of the fire  added to the magic of the night.

Conquering the Summit: A World of Unsurpassed Beauty

The final ascent to Churdhar Peak was a test of physical and mental endurance. The steep terrain, covered in loose scree, demanded a steady pace and unwavering determination. But with every step, the breathtaking views unfolded, fueling my motivation.

Reaching the Enchanting Kali Ka Tibba

The winding road towards Kali Ka Tibba offered breathtaking vistas. Lush green valleys stretched out on either side, punctuated by snow-capped peaks that shimmered in the distance. As we ascended, the air grew cooler, carrying the refreshing fragrance of pine trees. Vikas, an amateur photographer, couldn’t resist capturing the panoramic views – rolling hills bathed in golden sunlight, fluffy clouds drifting across the azure sky, and the occasional glimpse of a colorful bird soaring overhead.

A Walk Through Serenity: Exploring Kali Ka Tibba Temple

Upon reaching Kali Ka Tibba, the first stop was the Kali Ka Tibba Temple, a sacred site dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali. The intricate carvings on the temple walls and the serene atmosphere within transported us back in time. A local priest, a kind-hearted man with a warm smile, shared fascinating stories about the temple’s history and its significance to the community. Vikas, intrigued by the cultural significance, asked thoughtful questions, immersing himself in the rich tapestry of local beliefs.

A Feast for the Senses: Panoramic Views and Local Delights

The true magic of Kali Ka Tibba unfolded as we stepped onto the viewing platform. The breathtaking panorama left us speechless. Rolling hills carpeted with emerald green forests stretched out before us, merging seamlessly with the majestic Himalayas towering in the distance. Snow-capped peaks glistened under the clear blue sky, creating a picture-perfect postcard scene. Vikas, always the foodie, discovered a small cafe serving local delicacies. We savored steaming hot momos – a savory dumpling filled with vegetables – and refreshing masala chai, the flavors enhancing the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

A Moment of Peace: Reflecting by the Stream

The trail eventually led us to a picturesque stream, its crystal-clear water bubbling over smooth rocks. We sat on the bank, dipping our feet in the cool water and feeling the stress of everyday life melt away. The serenity of the surroundings and the gentle gurgling of the stream created a sense of tranquility that rejuvenated our souls. Vikas, a quiet observer, used this time to simply be present in the moment, soaking up the beauty of nature.

A Taste of Local Culture: Shopping at the Solan Market

On our way back to Solan, we stopped at the bustling market. The vibrant display of locally-made crafts, fresh produce, and colorful fabrics enthralled us.

Bir is a village located in the west of Joginder Nagar Valley in the state of Himachal Pradesh in northern India. Mostly referred as “Paragliding Capital of India”, Bir is also a noted centre for ecotourism, spiritual studies and meditation. Bir is also home to a Tibetan refugee settlement with several Buddhist monasteries and a large stupa. While Billing is the takeoff site for paragliding and Bir village is for landing; collectively it is known “Bir Billing”.

Bir-Billing is a Paragliding destination in the heart of Himalaya’s near famous tourist destination Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. This was “First Paragliding World Cup of India.” This event happened in the month of October, 2015.”
During world cup 150 top ranked paragliding pilots of all over the world participating along with 500 free flying pilots. This was a great opportunity for many local paragliding pilots to show their skills to world.

Bir Billing provides the option of Paragliding, Trekking to Himachali tribal villages, Mountain Biking, Angling and Camping.

Macleodganj and Dharamshala is 70 km from Bir. Billing is situated north of Bir at the distance of 14 km and gateway to the Thamsar Pass trek. Trek lead to most tribal region “Bada Bhangal” of Himachal Pradesh. Bir is mainly a Buddhist town and houses a monastery and a Tibetan handicraft center.

Camp Oak View offer Camping in Fixed Tents, Machaan Tent and Luxury Machaan Tents in Bir and Billing valley of Himachal. Machaan Tents designed especially for Royal feel in Tent provided balcony to enjoy nature around the Campsite. One can drive till Camp. Camping offer delicious food option and Bonfire in evening feel you heavenly.

Kasauli is a small hill town in the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It’s home to gabled colonial-era houses, orchards, and green-roofed Christ Church, dating from the mid-19th century. At the southern edge of town, Monkey Point overlooks forests of horse chestnut and Himalayan oak. A small temple also sits atop the hill. Nearby, the Gilbert Nature Trail winds through lush green countryside rich in birdlife.

Located at 1927 m above sea level Kasauli is a small hill station in Himachal Pradesh. It also serves as an army cantonment. Snow-clad mountains, dense forests, and a pleasant climate make Kasauli a major draw among tourists. Established by the British as a cantonment town in 1842, Kasauli has come a long way since. Located in the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, about 77 km from Shimla, you can see the remnants of the British legacy in the local architecture.

Christ Church and Baptist Church are amazing examples of the classical Gothic style of architecture. The churches have beautiful stained glass windows, a common feature of churches built in the British colonial era.

Surrounded by dense forests, Kasauli is home to several species of Himalayan flora and fauna including endangered ones. Babblers, Red-billed Blue Magpie, Striated Prinias, and Jungle Owlet can be spotted in Kasauli. Summer is the best time to visit Kasauli to watch the birds in the natural habitat. Kasauli is about 27 km from Parwanoo renowned for its apple orchards.

Like other towns founded by the British, Kasauli to boasts of a mall or the ceremonial route. Kasauli has two — the Upper Mall and the Lower Mall. The intersection of Upper and Lower Malls is the most important place in Kasauli. The tree-lined avenues, bordered by an array of shops and commercial establishments, are ideal for taking a stroll.

The cantonment town is also famous for the Kasauli Brewery, believed to be the oldest functioning distillery for scotch whisky in Asia. Kasauli is also the seat of the renowned Pasteur Institute popularly known as the Central Research Institute. It produces anti-Rabies vaccines.

The Kareri Lake trek is absolutely stunning. The Kareri Lake trail goes through the Kareri village, which is close to Dharamshala and the pine forests that follow. The Kareri lake is named after the village which is located at a distance of 12km away from the lake. An interesting fact about Kareri Lake is that it’s also known as Kumarwah Lake.

Just 3 km. from Kareri, village Nohli, I started the trek in the morning at around 8:20 AM. The trek is very steep from Jheel Café after the initial 1.5 kms trek.

Once on the Kareri Lake trek, the forests get denser and you might be able to spot a Blue Magpie even. Kareri Village has a ‘Forest Rest House’ and a few more places that sell basic amenities. In fact, some of the houses may even offer the facility of a night’s stay.

The Nyund River will accompany us on our trek here. This stream is the outflow of the snow melting from the Dhauladhar range. The melting snow is also the source of the Kareri lake.

The Kareri lake even remains frozen from December to March.

During winters, it gets way too cold at night for your comfort so it’s best to get back to the village.

The history of Kareri Lake involves religious importance. A very popular attraction near Kareri Lake is a temple that’s dedicated to Lord Shiva and Shakti. This ancient temple overlooks the beautiful lake and is situated on a hilltop.

Out of all of these attractions, the most adventurous one is obviously the trek. There are plenty of things to do during the Kareri Lake Trek.

The Kareri Lake trek is less explored and offers great scenic views of valleys and mountain ranges. The difficulty level of this trek varies from easy to moderate and hence it is suitable for both beginners as well as experienced ones.

Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and serene experiences. But within this paradise exists a hidden gem – the Barot Valley, often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland” of India. Intrigued by its moniker and yearning for a tranquil escape, I embarked on a journey to explore this captivating valley.

Reaching the Enchanting Valley

Barot Valley, situated in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, is accessible by road from either Mandi or Jogindernagar. My adventure began in Delhi, where I boarded a comfortable overnight bus to Mandi. The journey was a visual feast, with rolling hills gradually morphing into towering mountains. As dawn painted the horizon with hues of orange and pink, I arrived in Mandi, a charming town buzzing with activity.

From Mandi, passing through winding roads offered panoramic views of lush valleys and snow-capped peaks. The fresh mountain air, invigorating even in the summer months, filled me with a sense of anticipation. After a scenic drive of approximately two hours, I finally reached Barot, a small town nestled amidst verdant meadows and gurgling streams.

Unveiling the Beauty of Barot

The first impression of Barot was one of serenity. Time seemed to move at a slower pace here. The air was crisp and clean, a stark contrast to the pollution of city life. Quaint wooden houses with flower-adorned balconies lined the streets, exuding a warmth that instantly made me feel welcome.

A Walk Along the Uhl River

The heart of Barot lies in the Uhl River, a sparkling stream that meanders through the valley. I spent countless hours simply strolling along its banks, soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings. The gentle murmur of the water, the chirping of birds, and the rustling of leaves in the cool breeze created a symphony of nature that soothed my soul. Occasionally, I would spot locals casting their lines for trout, a popular pastime in the valley.

Exploring the Environs

Barot offers a variety of experiences beyond peaceful walks. One day, I ventured into the Nargu Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for diverse flora and fauna. The sanctuary boasts stunning hiking trails that lead through dense forests, offering glimpses of shy deer, colorful birds, and even the occasional glimpse of an elusive leopard. The sanctuary also houses a trout hatchery, where I learned about the importance of preserving this prized fish species.

A Step Back in Time at the Barot Temple

For a taste of history, I visited the Barot Temple, a sacred site dedicated to Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction and transformation. The intricate carvings on the temple walls and the serene atmosphere within transported me back in time. The local priest, a kind-hearted man, shared fascinating stories about the temple’s history and its significance to the community.

A Day Trip to the Chuhar Valley

On another day, I embarked on a scenic drive to the Chuhar Valley, a neighboring valley known for its picturesque landscape and vibrant culture. Here, I had the opportunity to interact with the local people, known for their warm hospitality and rich traditions. Witnessing their traditional way of life, from their farming practices to their vibrant festivals, offered a deeper understanding of the region’s unique culture.

Experiencing Local Delicacies

No journey is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Barot offers a simple yet flavorful culinary experience. I relished dishes like Siddu (steamed wheat flour dumplings), trout curry, and Chha Gosht (lamb curry). The use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods resulted in a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite.

Beyond Sightseeing: Activities for the Adventurous Soul

While Barot caters to those seeking serenity, it also offers activities for the adrenaline junkie. The Uhl River is a haven for angling enthusiasts, with trout being the prized catch. For the more adventurous, there are opportunities for white water rafting on the challenging rapids of the river. If trekking is your passion, several trails lead through the surrounding hills, offering breathtaking views of the valley.

A Farewell to Paradise

As my time in Barot Valley drew to a close, I felt a pang of sadness. This hidden gem had woven its magic on me, leaving me refreshed, rejuvenated, and with a newfound appreciation for nature’s beauty. The tranquility of the valley, the warmth of the people, and the breathtaking landscape had etched an indelible mark on my soul.

A Final Note: Planning Your Escape to Barot Valley

Barot Valley is an ideal destination for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Kalpa is situated at an altitude of 2759 m from the sea level, on the old Hindustan Tibet Road at a distance of 260 km from Shimla. Earlier it was the District Headquarter of Kinnaur. It is 14 kms. and half an hour’s drive from District Headquarter Reckong Peo. It has all the characteristics of a heritage village.

Kalpa came into prominence in the wake of British Governor General Lord Dalhousie’s visit in th 19th century. The Narayan-Nagani temple is an exemplary of local craftmanship. There are couple of Buddhist monasteries at Kalpa including the Hu-Bu-Ian-Car Gompa, said to be founded it by Rinchensang-Po (950-1055AD).

Kalpa is dramatically located close to the foot of 6050 meter high Kinner Kailash. This is the legendary winter home of Shiva. This is a spectacular sight early in the morning as the rising sun touches the snowy peaks with crimson and gold light.

There are numerous places all over Himachal that are blessed with mesmerizing natural beauty. Some of these places are quite famous like Shimla and Manali; but then there are a few others that are not so well known , but no less in beauty still.

In fact considering the kind of crowd that Shimla and Manali receive, visiting some of these unknown and offbeat destinations can prove to be a much better trip. One such place that I recently went on a trip to and would like to talk about in this article is Kalpa; a small town located in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh.

The name Kalpa would probably be known only to people who have traveled around a lot in the hills; or who have been on the Spiti circuit at least once. Kalpa and the nearby town of Reckong Peo is mostly used as the center point of the journey from Shimla to Kaza.

It is not completely an unknown destination because tourism is a major part of the livelihood of the people around here. You will definitely find tourists here during summer and the place is also very well connected. It however is still not known to many people and it never gets crowded around here.

So if you were planning a trip in near future; wanted to travel to a less crowded place that offers peace and tranquility as well as stunning vistas all around; then Kalpa could prove to be an ideal destination.

When it comes down to rugged mountainous views, free-spirited nature and an overall enchanting and wild trip, the Himalayan village of Khara Pathar takes the cake. The small village may not seem often be chosen in favour of its famous neighbour, Shimla and due to the extremely off track road that leads to Kharapathar, but the place’s charm is never dimmed. Kharapathar is located at the height of 8770 feet above sea level, making it the highest point on the Shimla route. The staggering height of the village makes the view here a thing of the legends, especially at night when all the scattered houses on the hill are lit up like specks. The cloud-piercing height also gives rise to clear cloudless nights which give individuals an absolutely stunning view of the millions of stars, which is a sight as rare as a shooting star in big cities or towns.

Giri-Ganga is located in Pabbar valley southeast corner of Himachal Pradesh. Kharapathar falls on the way from where trail starts to this mesmerising place. Kharapathar is located at an altitude of 2700 meters and at a distance of 70 kms from Shimla. Trail starts with a wide dirt track at a distance of 6 kms till Giri- Ganga and for those who are not inclined to walk they can hire taxi from kharapathar. Trail is mostly shaded with tall Himalayan cedar (Deodar) and pine trees. This place is the source of river Giri – Ganga which originates just below the Kuppar meadow. The story behind the place is interesting, according to local people long ago a saint was travelling back to home from Haridwar carrying a pot of Ganga- Jal (Holy water) while passing from the place he mistakenly toppled the pot. Hence the place is known as (GIRI -GANGA). Ancient temple of goddess Durga, Kali and Lord Shiva. Every year local people gather there to worship Lord Shiva during (Shivratri) and during (Navratri). Trek to Kuppar starts from Giri – Ganga temple. It takes 1:30 hrs from Giri – Ganga to reach Kuppar Bugyal. Trek grade is beginners. From top one can enjoy breathtaking views of Himalayan ranges and Pabbar valley.

Aside from its surroundings, Khara Pathar is best known as a base for several trekking and hiking routes amongst which the most famous one is the Giri Ganga River Trek. This trek is the reason Khara Pathar receives as much as tourism as it does today. The village and the area surrounding it are also often referred to as the ‘apple belt of Himachal Pradesh’ due to sprawling apple plantations dotting the hills with the reds and greens. Camping and fishing are activities that are also often taken up by individuals visiting the area.