Kalimpong- West Bengal | |
Fast Facts
| Languages | Bengali, Nepali, Hindi and English |
| Population | 46,500 |
| Best Time to Visit | April, June |
| STD Code | 03552 |
Kalimpong-Introduction
Kalimpong is one among the many popular hill stations in India that has managed to keep its natural beauty even though it is a popular summer retreat for many people. The hill station not only boasts of many tourist attractions but is also known for the exotic orchids that cover entire hillsides. Hill Resorts in India offers attractive tour packages to this heavenly hill resort, so you can simply book a tour today and spend a great vacation in Kalimpong.
Kalimpong-Location
Kalimpong is in the northeast of India. To be more precise, it actually is situated on the northern part of West Bengal. It is at a height of 1,250 meters above sea level, on the foothills of the eastern Himalayas and is about 50kms east of Darjeeling and 80kms from Gangtok (Sikkim).
Kalimpong-History
Till 18th Century Kalimpong was under the rule of Sikkimese rulers. Then it came under the command of the Bhutanese. Finally, in the 19th Century, the British took over Kalimpong and merged it with West Bengal.
Kalimpong-Sites to Visit
While on your tour of Kalimpong, you may visit the Thongsa Gompa, also known as the Bhutanese Monastery. It is the oldest monastery in Kalimpong and was founded in the year 1692. Though the old structure was destroyed by the Gorkhas, it was rebuilt on the same site.
You can also visit the Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Gompa, which is on the Durpin hill and is famous for the Tibetan wall paintings, which attract a lot of tourists. It also has a religious debating society along with a school of Tibetan medicine.
There is also the Tharpa Choeling Monastery that was founded in 1937 and belongs to the Gelugpa (yellow hat) sect of Tibetan monastery. This Monastery houses many old scriptures and literary works.
Dr, Graham's Home is 4kms from the town center. It takes about an hour of walking to get there. The mission school was founded by Scottish missionary Dr. John Anderson Graham in 1900. The purpose of the school was to educate children of the tea garden workers and poor laborers.
While in Kalimpong, you can also take a tour to the Sericulture Research Institute, which breeds silk worms and produces high quality silk. There are also other various herbs and plants at the institute. If you like many others, feel the need for protecting the environment and global warming worries you, then head to the Nature Interpretation Center. There you can take a look at the dioramas that depict the ill effects of Man's disregard for Nature. If you are really fond of flowers, orchids in particular, then you can visit numerous nurseries in Kalimpong.
Kalimpong is very famous for its flower production and apparently it produces 80 percent of the total gladioli that is produced in India.
Kalimpong-Sites Near by
You can take a tour to Lava, which is about 32 kms away from kalimpong and is famous for the spectacular view it offers of rechi La and jelep la passes.
Another place is Pedong monastery, which is 26 kms from Kalimpong. It is an old Buddhist monastery, which was established in 1837. If you are an early riser, then you can catch the beautiful sunrise at the Lolay Gaon, which is 56kms from town and offers a great view of the Khangchendzonga.
Kalimpong-Shopping
If you want to shop, head to the Main road, the 10th Mile Market or the Raja dorje Market. You can buy handicrafts, souvenirs, jewelry, and woodwork. At the kalimpong Arts and Crafts center, you can get authentic Lepcha and Bhutanese embroidered work on clothing and purses. You can also get some fresh ginger and honey for yourself, but before you leave do not forget to try the famous Cheese in Kalimpong.
Kalimpong-Adventure Sports
If you really love adventure sports, then this is the perfect place to come for your holidays. You can enjoy white river rafting on Teesta River. Trekking is another outdoor activity you can enjoy. Te place is so beautiful that it is a very good way of seeing wonderful places around the hill station.
The closest airport to kalimpong is at Bagdogra, which is about 75 kms away. The nearest railhead is at Siliguri, which is 68kms away.
If you rather go by road, then you can opt for a bus, a taxi or hire a jeep from Siliguri or New Jalpaiguri.
Kalimpong-Best time to stay
Best time to take a tour to Kalimpong is between March and mid-June or from September to December.
Kalimpong-Fairs and Festivals
In October, Kalimpong hosts an annual flower festival, which is definitely worth a look.
Make Hill Resorts in India, your travel partner and enjoy your dream vacation at one of the best hill resorts in India.
Mirik- West Bengal | |
Mirik - Introduction
The Hill resorts India offers online booking of hotels as well as tour packages to Mirik, a pristine hill resort which is far away from the hustle and bustle of the city and is nestled in the forest hills. The tranquility of this delightful spot attracts many tourists and it is claimed that no one ever leaves this hill resort unsatisfied.
The natural beauty of this beautiful hill resort has a rejuvenating effect on the tired urban soul. All the wild flowers, enchanting lakes and flourishing forests of Cryptomaria Japanica trees make Mirik a paradise on earth, and the Kachunjanga as a backdrop adds immense beauty to the whole scenery.
Mirik - Location
Hill resort of Mirik lies between Siliguri and Darjeeling, in the state of West Bengal. It takes a two hours road journey from Siliguri to get to Mirik. The hill resort stands at an altitude of 1,768m in the forested hills of eastern Himalayas.
Mirik - Sites to Visit
The most prominent of tourist spots in Mirik is the Sumendu Lake. It is a man made lake enveloped in a forested ridge, and surrounding it is a flower garden and there is also a floating fountain in its center. Though not for swimming, Sumendu is considered ideal for boating and Fishing.
The temple of Singha Devi or the Devi Sthan is on the west bank of the river and you have to take the bridge over the lake to get there, not only is it frequented by the pious but also the nature lovers. Other temples dedicated to Hanuman, Shiva and Kali Mata can also be visited there. Bokar Gompa is another place of religious importance.
The hill station of Mirik is also quite famous for its oranges, you can move through orange orchards either on foot or hired ponies. One can also take a tour to the cardamom and tea plantations, which add even more to the beauty of the hill resort. The tea plantations can also be visited and many conducted tours to the factories are organized from time to time.
Mirik - Near By Sites
A treat for the nature lover Mirik provides many picnic spots.
Dudia being one of the most famous ones. Treks from Mirik to Sandakphu, Phalut, Kurseong via Balasan River and Namsu are also an option for those willing to try something more adventurous.
Mirik - How to Reach
Mirik is very accessible. Nearest airport to Mirik, Bagdogra is 55 km away. The broad gauge railroad at New Jalpiaguri provides the majority of the traffic to Mirik. It is merely 60 km away. Excellent road network links Mirik with places like Bagdogra, Siliguri, Darjeeling and Kurseong.
Mirik - Best Time To Visit
Mirik is pretty much pleasant through out the year. The temperatures in Mirik usually fluctuate between 13 and 30 degree Celsius. Light tropical woolen garments suffice for the summer and winter garments for the cool winter would keep you comfortable.
Mirik - Where to stay
Swiss Cottages called motels locally are available for accommodation along with other options like tourist lodge, hostels and many hotels.
Hill resorts India offers online booking of rooms at various hotels in Mirik along with tour packages to this great hill resort. If you want to spend your next holiday surrounded by natural beauty and verdant hills then come to Mirik an make Hill resorts India your travel partner.
Darjeeling - West Bengal | |
Fast Facts
| Area | 10.57 sq km |
| Altitude | 2,134 m above sea level |
| Languages | Bengali, Nepali, Hindi, and English |
| Religion | Hindus (77.95%), Buddhist (11.95%), Others (10.1%) |
| Population | 73,062 |
| Annual Mean Rainfall | 3,200 mm |
| Maximum Temperature | 14.89°C |
| Minimum Temperature | 5°C |
| STD Code | 0354 |
Darjeeling Introduction
Affectionately called the "Queen of Hill Stations", Darjeeling with its verdant hills, majestic mountains, inviting scenic beauty is one of the most seductive spots in India. Its rich past is evident across the hills resort. Its mesmerizing strategic location and valuable tea trade has made this hill resort in India a much sought-after destination.
Darjeeling History
It was thanks to the efforts of Lloyd and Grant, two British officers that the Darjeeling came into being as a summer retreat for the employees of the Raj to escape from the heat and dusts of Calcutta now called Kolkata. The two officers who visited the area in 1829 were very much captivated by the beauty of the place and decided to set up a sanitarium for employees of the British Raj.
Darjeeling Sites to Visit
The hill resort of Darjeeling caters to visitors looking for a tranquil setting. Dotted with several places of tourist interest, Darjeeling attracts visitors in greater magnitude.
One of the major attractions for the tourists in the hill resort of Darjeeling, the Yiga Choeling Monastery of Ghoom is dedicated to the Maitreya Buddha, the future Buddha. The monastery also entices those having a penchant for the past. The palm leaf and paper manuscripts found in the monastery is of special significance to the historians.
Another major tourist attraction in Darjeeling is the Natural History Museum, which is a treasure trove of Himalayan mammals, reptiles, birds, insects and butterflies of the region.
Darjeeling is a Mecca for the botanists, animal lover and nature lovers. The hill resort is home to the Lloyd Botanical Garden, which was fine collection of several species of alpines and orchids. The garden is named after William Lloyd who donated the site in 1878. The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling has the distinction of being the only center in India where the rare snow leopard is bred. The zoo is also the habitat of the Ussurian tigers, Himalayan black bears, Red Pandas and the Llama of the Andes.
At a distance of 1 km is the famous attraction of the Darjeeling-Rangit Valley ropeway, which offers the incredible view of the Kanchunjungha Peak and bird's eye view of the Darjeeling. This is the longest ropeway in Asia.
Tea plantation is the main livelihood of the people of Darjeeling. No visit to Darjeeling is complete without making a trip to these tea gardens. Added to this, feel the superb ambience of an evening at the Mall in the center of Darjeeling.
Located below the railway station is the Dhirdham Temple, a replica of the famous Pashupatinath Temple of Kathmandu. Some of the other places of interest in Darjeeling are the Observatory hill, Aloobaari Monastery, Bhutia Bustee Monastery and the Ava Art Gallery.
Darjeeling Site Near By
Though Darjeeling is full of many incredible tourist attractions, but within a short trip from this hill resort there are many other outstanding places well worth a visit.
Situated at an altitude of 2,590 meters and 11 kilometers from Darjeeling lies the famous spot of Tiger Hill, which offers the most exotic view of the Kanchenjunga peaks. You can also view other peaks of the Eastern Himalayas such as Mt. Everest, Jannu and Kabru
Set in the lap of Dedo and Durbindra Hills across the Teesta River at a height of 1,250 meters, the dream destination of Kalimpong is noted for its spectacular scenery breathtaking underwater scenery as well as beautiful flower nurseries, monasteries and the handicrafts industry.
Situated at an altitude of 1,458 meters, Kurseong is another hill resort, which is frequented by the visitor while on their way to Siliguri from Darjeeling. The picturesque resort of Mirik lies mid-way between Siliguri and Darjeeling. Located at an altitude of 1,767, Mirik is known famous for its lake, boating facilities and sprawling plantations of pine, cardamom, and oranges.
For the thrill seekers a trip to Phalut, situated at an altitude of 3,600 meters, is a must. The trekkers can have a soul, stirring views of the Himalayas from Phalut.
Darjeeling What to Buy
There is not a shadow of doubt that Darjeeling is a shoppers' paradise. The hill resort is home to Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center the pace where you can purchase gift items and souvenirs.
Darjeeling Adventure Sports
There's a wide choice of Darjeeling holidays for people seeking adventure and action. Darjeeling has the distinction of being the first hill station where was organized trekking by Dr. Hooker in the 1840s. The spectacular panoramic views of Everest and Kanchenjunga peaks have been tempting adventure seekers from different parts of the world.
Darjeeling How to Reach
Bagdogra is the nearest airport as well as the railway station to the hill resort of Darjeeling. Bus service connects Darjeeling with Siliguri. There is an excellent network of roads linking Darjeeling to Kalimpong and Bagdogra. The nearest bus station to Darjeeling is at Siliguri.
Darjeeling Best Time to Visit
The months of March-May or September-November are the best time to visit Darjeeling.
Darjeeling Where to Stay
An extensive range of accommodations awaits the visitor in Darjeeling from the exclusive luxury hotels with all the modern comforts, to budget hotels and intimate inns.
Darjeeling offers good and hygienic food at affordable price. The hill station is home to a large number of restaurants and eateries that suits to requirements of the tourists.
Darjeeling Fairs and Festivals
The Teesta Tea and Tourism Festival is an annual festival that is celebrated with much fanfare in Darjeeling during the months of December-January.
Chamba- Himachal Pradesh | |
Fast Facts
| Languages | Hindi, Himachali |
| Population | 19,000 metres |
| Annual Mean Rainfall | 785.84 mm |
| Best time to visit | March-June |
| STD Code | 01899 |
The town of temples
Located in the picturesque valley, Chamba is a beautiful town in Himachal Pradesh. Chamba is a town of temples and scenic locations. The architecture of the temples at Chamba is marvellous and tells the story of the erstwhile Chamba rulers.
Location
Visiting time
Chamba is one of the beautiful hill resorts in India and can be toured between March and June.
History
Chamba was once ruled by the Rajput rulers in the 6th century AD and made Chamba city as the capital. Later Raja Shail Verman founded the town and named it Chamba after his daughter Champavati. Chamba was also ruled by the Mughals. Later the town came under the Sikh kingdom.
Chamba is home to a number of temples and they make a wonderful tourist attraction. The Laxmi Narayan Temple Complex is a must visit place in Chamba. The architecture of the temples is wonderful and reflect the beautiful art of that era when the temples were built in the 10th century. The other temples that one can visit include Hari Rai Temple, Champavati, Vajreshwari, Sui Mata and Chamunda Devi.
Rangmahal is the old palace that one can visit. The other palace that one can visit is Akhand Chandi Palace. This palace is named after Bhuri Singh of Chamba. Chamba also has an old church-St. Andrew's Church.
Sites nearby
There are a number of beautiful tourist spots around Chamba that one can visit that include Dalhousie, Khajjiar and Bharmaur. One can visit Dalhousie, which is a beautiful hill station 43 kilometres from Chamba. Khajjiar and Bharmaur are other two beautiful stations around Chamba that one can visit.
Fairs and festivals
The Chamaba Valley comes alive during the festive season. The Sui Mata festival is one of most important festivals that take place in the month of March/April. The festival is an ideal time to visit Chamba if you want to get a feel of the valley. The festival is celebrated for four days. The Minjar festival is other festival that is celebrated in July/August.
Shopping
How to reach
Chamba is about 580 kilometres from Delhi. The closest railhead to Chamba is Pathankot, which is 118 kilometres from Chamba. The nearest airport is in Kangra.
Places to eat
Chmaba has quiet few eating joints that serve sumptuous local delicacies. You can try Chuk-Chilli Sauce, which is a mixture of green and red peppers, lime juice, mustard oil and salt.
Dalhousie- Himachal Pradesh | |
Dalhousie Introduction
An enchanting hill resort in the Himalayan state of Himachal Pradesh, Dalhousie is a destination straight out of a dream. The first thing visitors to Dalhousie appreciate is its spectacular scenic grandeur. As tranquility rule the roost in this superb hill resort.
A popular summer retreat among the holidaymakers, Dalhousie is a paradise of unspoilt nature.
Dalhousie Location
Located in the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas, Dalhousie offers mesmerizing views of the majestic mountains and the rice fields.
Dalhousie History
Credit for discovering Dalhousie goes to the British governor-general Lord Dalhousie, who found this hill station in 1854. Dalhousie is the gateway to the Chamba Valley. It soon developed the summer retreat of the British who were attracted by its enchanting beauty.
Dalhousie Sites to Visit
The hill resort of Dalhousie is spread across the five hills of Portreyn, Tehra, Kathlog, Bakrota and Balun. Figure of Eight of Portreyn, Subhash Chowk, Gandhi Chowk, the vintage point of Kalatope, Kalatope and Panchpulla or the Five Bridges, Satdhara, Dainkund are the places of interest in Dalhousie India.
Dalhousie Sites Near By
Apart from being a place of major tourist attractions, Dalhousie is also a stating point for visiting a number of superb nearby places well worth a visit.
Khajjiar is situated at a distance of 7 kilometers from Dalhousie and a paradise for the nature lovers and the adventure seekers. Chamba, Palampur, Baijnath, Bir, Billing McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala and Triund are other nearby attractions of Dalhousie India.
Dalhousie shopping
There is not a shadow of doubt that Dalhousie is a shoppers' paradise. Specialties of the hill resort include shawls, chappals, cane baskets, woolens and dolls.
The nearest railhead is at Pathankot at a distance of 80 km from the hill resort of Dalhousie. Regular buses and taxis connect Pathankot with Dalhousie India.
Dalhousie Where to Stay
Dalhousie offers a superb selection of accommodation with incredible picturesque locations. You can stay where you can enjoy sightseeing and luxury at its best. The accommodation options in the hill resort are varied and cater to the all budgets. The food in Dalhousie is delicious and very reasonably priced.
Almora Uttaranchal |  |
Fast Facts
| Area | 11.9 sq km |
| Best Time to Visit | April-June and September-November |
| STD Code | 07578 |
Almora - Location
Almora is one of the most popular hill stations of Uttaranchal. It is one of the five districts in the newly carved state of the Uttaranchal. It is also known as the cultural capital of Kumaon. Almora is on a three-mile long horse-saddle shaped ridge and is surrounded by hill ranges on all four sides by hill ranges. All the four ranges have the temples on the top of their peak. These temples are of goddesses Banari Devi, Kasar Devi, Sayahi Devi and the temple of Sun god.
Almora - Weather
Almora is situated at an altitude of 1,638 meters. The climate in Almora can be described as moderate. The summers are warm in the morning and pleasant in the evenings. The winters are cold and sunny during the daytime while the nights are very cold with snowfall a couple of time during the season.
Almora - Origin
Almora was the seat of power of the Chand Dynasty who ruled the land of Kumaon for almost one thousand years. An interesting fact about the discovery of Almora is that unlike other hill stations, it was not discovered and developed by the British. The Katyuri Dynasty ruled the region around Almora from the 9th century AD. Raja Balo Kalyan Chand made Almora as his new capital in 1568 AD, when he transferred his capital from Champawat to Almora. The Chands occupied Almora till the 19th century AD. The rivers Kosi and Suyal flow through Almora providing a natural barrier. There is an interesting local legend about the discovery of Almora. Raja Kalyan Chand, the ruler of the Chand Dynasty was riding on the horseshoe shaped spur in the pursuit of a prey. The hunted quarry protected its life by taking refuge behind the thick bushes of Kilgore, a local wild bush and revealed the place to the king. The story might not be corroborated by any literary or archaeological evidences but continues to be told by the locals. The Gorkhas captured Almora in 1798 AD and finally British took it over from the Gorkhas after the Gorkha wars of 1814-1815.
Almora is surrounded by the mighty Himalayas, known as the king of the mountains and the abode of the gods. It is a very famous hill station. Almora is a good place to enjoy the spectacular view of the snow-capped mountains of the central Himalayas. There are some beautiful and interesting places to visit in and around Almora. The temple of Nanda Devi is 1000-year old temple and is one of the main attractions of Almora. a festival is held every year where youth from different region come to participate in this dance festival. The Chitai temple is 8 km away from the main city. The people of Kumaon have strong faith in the local god Golu. The temple of Chitai is dedicated to him. It is visited by thousands of Kumaonis living in Kumaon or outside. People write letters to the god to fulfill their desires and in return they hang bells in the temple. You can see several thousand bells hanging all around the temple. The 800-year old Sun Temple at Katarmal is 7 km from Almora. It is exceptional for its architecture and intricate carvings. It is one of the few sun temples of Uttaranchal and probably the biggest group in Uttaranchal. Jageshwar is 34 km away from Almora. There is a group of almost 125 temples dating back to 7th to 11th century AD. The majority of the temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and a few to various goddesses. The group of temples is situated amidst a dense Deodar forest. Jageshwar is considered as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiva.
Almora - Getaway
Almora has attracted many people including famous personalities and dignitaries. Swami Vivekananda visited Almora at the turn of this century. The famous lectures 'From Almora To Colombo' quotes that he was spellbound by the beauty of the mountains here as much as by the ocean at Kanyakumari. The headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission was earlier located at Mayawati Ashram then in Almora. Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore came here to spend his summers to forget the personal loss of a beloved child and found the environs of the hill station salubrious. The internationally acclaimed dance choreographer Udaya Shankar fell in love with this place and set up a cultural center here. Sitar player Ravi Shankar, artist Zohra Sehgal, the film star Guru Dutt, painter Brewster, mystic Lama Govinda and scientist Boshi Sen have stayed and enjoyed the natural beauty of Almora. Jawaharlal Nehru served a term of imprisonment in the Jail at Almora during the British rule. He had left behind an elaborate account of the pleasures of solitude and the varied moods of nature in his various letters written from this place to his daughter.
Around Almora
There are quite a few hill stations to visit near Almora. Binsar is situated 30 km from Almora. You can have an unobstructed view of the important mountain peaks of Uttaranchal from here. Binsar has been made a sanctuary. The entire area is various species of exotic flora and fauna. Ranikhet is almost 35 km from Almora. It was one's the British cantonment and you will find buildings of the British period even today. There are several places to visit at Ranikhet. Bageshwar is 90 km from Almora and is a newly made district. There is an ancient and famous temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated on the banks of the confluence of two rivers Gomati and Saryu. Baijnath is a small town famous for a group of temples. It is a small distance away from Bageshwar. Kausani is a small hill station mid way between Almora and Bageshwar. Mahatma Gandhi spent three weeks in the Anakshakti Ashram in this small hill station and described it as the Switzerland of India. The view of the snowline is spectacular from here. Sitalakhet is a small hill resort, which is yet unexplored. There is the temple of Sayahi Devi on the top of a mountain peak.
Visiting Almora
By Air - The nearest airport is at Pant Nagar, district Udham Singh Nagar. Regular flights operate during the summer. By Rail - The nearest railhead for Almora is Kathgodam. By Road - Almora is well connected by road with all the important cities.
Almora - Accommodation
There are Hotels, Inspection Bungalows, Private Cottages available to suit all types of budgets.
Tawang- Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang - Location
Tawang is located at an altitude of 3500 m above the sea level in Arunachal Pradesh. It covers the area of 2085 sq km and is surrounded by Tibet in the north, Bhutan in the southwest, Kameng in the east and is separated from the west by Sela ranges.Tawang - Origin
Tawang was at part of the Kingdom of Tibet during the medieval times. It was ruled by the local tribal rulers from time to time. It was declared as the off-limits area in 1873 AD. The area around Tawang was the reason of disagreement between India and China after the Independence of India in 1947. Tawang was invaded by the Chinese army in 1962 but they later withdrew.
Tawang is called by several names like the Beautiful Land of Monpas, the Hidden Paradise and land of Dawn-lit Mountains. The name Tawang probably has some bearing with the local surroundings. The local people believe that Merak Lama gave the name Tawang to this hill resort in the 17th century AD.
Tawang - To See
Tawang has landscapes, history, religion and architecture to offer to its tourists. Tawang has countless monasteries and nunneries; up teem lakes, several waterfalls and hot water springs. The place is perfect for religious as well as adventure tourism amidst unexplored scenic beauty. Tawang Ganden Namgyal Lhaste, popularly known as the Tawang or Gompa Monastery, is a 400 years old Mahayana Sect Buddhist Monastery. It was built during the 17th century AD by Mera Lama, a contemporary of the 5th Lama. It is situated at a height of 3500 m near the Buddhist border. It is a place worth paying a visit because of the collection of huge scriptures, books, gold lettered Buddhist scriptures, images and tapestries. The Parkhang Hall of the monastery has the library with the rare hand-written and block-painted thankas or manuscripts of revered books like Tangun, Kangyur and Sungbhum. The 108 gold-embossed manuscripts of the 'Teaching of Lord Buddha' and 225 volumes of the explanations of Buddha's teachings covered with specially designed moth - proof silk adorned with paintings are the other rare works of Buddhist literature. The18 ft high gilded statue of the Buddha in the monastery complex is also worth watching. The festival of Torgya is held in the 11th Monpa month called the Dawa Chukchipah in the Tawang Monastery. A Craft Center here produces fine woolen carpets in various colorful designs.
Tawang - Getting There
By Air: The nearest airport to Tawang is at Tezpur, Assam. There are daily flights of Indian Airlines, jet Airways and Sahara Airlines up to Guwahati.
By Rail: The nearest railhead to Tawang is at Rangapara, Assam.
By Road: The nearest bus station is at Bomdila. It is well connected with other towns by buses.
Tawang - Accommodation
There are several hotels and tourists lodge around Tawang, which are according to the budgets of the tourists. You can try and savor authentic Tibetan food at Tawang Arunachal Pradesh.
Panhala- Maharashtra |
Panhala-Introduction
Hill Resorts in India offers online booking of hotel rooms and holiday packages to Panhala. Come to this beautiful hill station in Maharashtra and enjoy a perfect break from the noise and pollution of the city. Leave behind the fast-paced life of urban centers and enjoy a stress free holiday in Panhala with Hill Resorts in India.
Panhala-Location
Panhala lies on the Sahyadri Mountain Range and is situated in the Kolhapur district of Maharashtra. It is about 22 km to the northwest of Kolhapur on the Kolhapur-Ratnagiri road and is at an altitude of 3177 feet above sea level.
Panhala-Sites to Visit
Almost all the holiday packages to Panhala include a tour to Ambarkhana. The Ambarkhana was built by the Marathas and it houses the palace, the administrative division and the granary. The granaries were necessary since grain needed to be stored in case of famines and other calamities. You can also take a look at the Teen Darwaja, which are three gates that provide access to the fort.
If you are on a tour to Panhala, you can check out Sajja Kothi, which was built by the Mohammedans in 1008 AD. There is a very interesting story related to this fort. Many say that when Siddi Johar, who was a Bijapur general, attacked the fort, Shivaji escaped from the window while Shiva Kashid, in the disguise of Shivaji fought bravely with Siddi Johar.
Another place one can visit is the Ambabai temple, where you can pay respect to the Goddess. Sambhaji temple is another place you can visit, which was built in the memory of Sambhaji, as the name itself suggests.
There is also the Someshwar tank and Andhar Bav. Do not forget to visit the Nayakini Sajja, at Panhala, It is a great thing to see, to understand the warfare strategy used by the Marathas to deceive their foes. It was located next to one of the corners of the fort to hide the ravine or moat. When the enemies tried to climb over the particular corner, they would fall into the ravine. There are also other places in Panhala that you could visit besides all these wonderful places.
Panhala-How to Reach
The airport nearest to Panhala, is the Kolhapur airport, which is at a distance of 35km from the hill station.
If you wish to travel by road, there are frequent buses between Kolhapur and Panhala. As for the railway station, the Kolhapur railway station is only 26 km from Panhala.
Panhala-Best time to visit
The weather of Panhala is great, especially for people with ailments. The perfect time to visit Panhala is from October to December. The temperature usually ranges from 25-32 degree Celsius to 20-24 degree Celsius during the rainy season.
Panhala-Where to stay
Though there are many hotels, three good options are Hotel Hill Top, Hotel Valley View and the MTDC Station at Panhala.
Hill Resorts in India offers online booking for hotels in Panhala and also several tour or holiday packages to the hill station. Spend your holiday in a beautiful hill resort in Maharashtra and enjoy a holiday experience that you would never want to forget.
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fast Facts
Introduction Matheran is an idyllic hill station in Maharashtra that is popular for its scenic beauty and laid back pace. If you are looking forward to some peaceful moments travel to Matheran Maharashtra. Time seems stand still in this part of Maharashtra. Hill Resorts in India provides an overview of the beautiful hill station. Location Matheran is located in the state of Maharashtra and is about 103 kilometres from Mumbai. Matheran's lush green landscape and verdant hills attract a number of tourists to the quaint hill station every year.  History Centuries have passed since an Englishman Hugh Mallet discovered Matheran in 1850 but little has changed in Matheran. As the common mode of transport in this tiny hill station is rickshaws and buggy. Places to visit As you take the toy train to reach Matheran, the beautiful hills seem to welcome you. Once in Matheran, the hill resort smells clean and fresh. As no motor vehicles are allowed into the town and one has to travel by foot or can take rickshaw or buggy. Matheran is really beautiful during the monsoons when rains leave the hill station clean and green. Time seems to stand still in Matheran as you walk to a number of beautiful places in Matheran. Some of the view points in Matheran include Chouk, Panorama, Garbut Point and Louisa. Rummaging through the small bazaar in Mathern is an exciting idea. As you see small shops selling a number of items that include Kolhapuri chappal, leather bags, and belts. Glass birds and dry flowers are other two important items sold in Matheran that you can shop. Places to eat There are a few wonderful eating joints that serve sumptuous food. Chikki is what dominates the food items in Matheran. It is made of gram flour, jaggery and cashew nut. Visiting time The best season to tour Matheran is from April to June and November to February. Where to stay There are a few hotels and lodges in Matheran that provide an ideal base to tour Matheran. MTDC Holiday Resort, Royal Hotel, Rugby Hotel are some hotels that you can opt for when travelling to Matheran. How to reach Matheran is about 70 kilometres from Thane. You can take train to Neral from Mumbai and then take the toy train to reach Matheran.
Fast Facts
Introduction One of the most popular getaways from Mumbai and Pune, Lonavala is a beautiful hill station in Maharshtra. Located in the Western Ghats, Lonavala is also called as the jewel in the Sahayadri range. As monsoon rains come tumbling down the Sahayadri hills, the hill station dons its best color-green. It's a wonderful experience to tour the hill resort during the rains. Location The hill resort is located half way between Mumbai and Pune. It is located in the western part of Maharashtra and is about 106 kilometres from Mumbai. In summer and during the rainy season most people hit the Mumbai-Pune Highway and travel to twin hill stations of Lonavala and Khandala. History Lonavala derived its name from the Sanskrit word 'Lonavli', which means 'city surrounded by caves'. The region around Lonavala was once a popular Buddhist center. The caves around the hill resort date back to 2nd century BC. Lonavala was once under the rule of Chattrapati Shivaji and later Peshwas ruled the region before British overthrew the Peshwas. Places to visit The picturesque view of the Sahayadri range is one of the many highlights that Lonavala has to offer. With its lush surroundings and peaceful environs, Lonavala is an ideal getaway from Mumbai's concrete jungle. The hill resort is an ideal place for trekking. A leisurely walk along the waterfalls and other beautiful spots is what keeps most travelers busy in Lonavala. There are a number of places around Lonavala that one can visit when in Lonavala. The lakes around Lonavala worth visiting include Tugauli and Bhushi. Khandala, just five kilometres away is another exciting hill resort that can be visited from Lonavala. There are a number of caves around the hill resort and some of them even date back to 200 BC. The most fascinating of them are the Karla caves, located about 10 kilometres from Lonavala. The Buddhist stupa at the Karala caves is believed to be 2,200 years old. Rock climbing is another exciting activity that visitors to Lonavala can enjoy. Pauna Lake is the best-kept secret of Lonavala. Home to some of the Mumbai's rich and famous; Pauna Lake makes a great place for an outing. Visiting time Lonavala is the year-round destination, however most people prefer to visit the hill station during summer and the monsoon. How to reach The nearest airport to Lonavala is Pune, which is about 64 kilometres from Lonavala. Lonavala lies on the main railway line between Pune and Mumbai and hence the train is one of the convenient ways to reach Lonavala. Lonavala is well connected by road and lies on the Mumbai-Pune Highway.
Khandala - Introduction Once visited never forgotten, Khandala is a hill station, which dazzles the visitors with its spectacular scenery, verdant hills, deep green valleys, beautiful lakes and waterfall. Situated at a height of 625 mt in the Sahyadri hills, this hill resort of immense beauty is popular weekend gateway from the hectic life of Mumbai. Khandala - Location Located in the western part of the western state of Maharashtra, India Khandala is nestled in the Sahyadri hills. Situated 101 km southeast of Mumbai and 69 km from Pune, the hill resort is 5 km from Lonavala. Khandala -History
Khandala - Sites to Visit A small hill resort, Khandala offers breathtaking views of the green surroundings. The place attracts visitors in a large number throughout the year. The best way to appreciate the amazing scenic beauty of Khandala is by taking a walk around the hill station. You can also indulge in trekking. You will find the tourist attraction of Amruntanjan point at the Khandala. The mesmerizing view of the beauty of the surroundings from the Dukes Nose is an unforgettable experience. Khandala - Nearby attractions  Apart from being a place of major tourist attractions, Khandala is also a stating point for visiting a number of superb nearby places well worth a visit. Whether you are looking for another hill resort, beautiful lakes or the historical places you can be sure that you won't have far to travel. Just five km apart is the hill resort of Lonavala, which makes a spectacular tourist destination on its own right. Some of the beautiful lakes near Khandala are the Lonavala Lake, Tugauli Lake and Bhushi Lake. The Walvan Dam near Khandala is also worth visiting. 16 km from Khandala are the famous tourist attractions of Karla and Bhaja Caves. Situated on the hills these rock-cut caves belonged to 2nd century B.C. and are the oldest and finest examples of Buddhist rock-cut temple art in India. Khandala - shopping Khandala is well known for the fast foods such as Chikkis, Jams, Chiwda, Wafers and various types of Sevs. Khandala -Adventure Sports Trekking and hiking in Peru will be and unforgettable experience. For the adventure tourists there are several trekking and hiking opportunities available in and around Khandala. The Karla hills including the popular Duke's Nose peak offer rock-climbing opportunities for the adventurous tourists.  Khandala -How to Reach Khandala does not have an airport of its own. The nearest airport to the hill resort is at Pune, which is 69 km from while the nearest railhead is at Lonavala. As Lonavala is on the main railway line between the important destinations of Mumbai (Bombay) and Pune (Poona), all trains plying between the two cities stop here and it becomes easier to for the travelers to reach Mumbai and Pune. It is three hours journey from Lonavala to Mumbai a four-hour train ride from Lonavala to Pune. Khandala is also well connected to Mumbai and Pune by road. Khandala-Where to Stay The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation runs a resort at Karla, and another at Rye Woods, Lonavala. Khandala -Best Time to Visit Khandala has a pleasing climate all throughout year. While the hill resort experiences mild temperature during summers (April-June), while winters are cool (November-February). Southwestern monsoon reached Khandala between June and September and produces heavy rains. So it is advisable for the tourists to avoid the rainy season. The best time to visit the hill resort of Khandala is between the months of October and May.
Idukki-Introduction One of the most famous hill resorts of South India, Idukki is immensely appealing for travelers seeking an escape to the mist layered mountains and an adventure with a difference. Deriving its name from the Malayalam word Idukki literally meaning 'a narrow gorge', this hill station will never fail to amaze you. The mountains of Idukki are the source of the River Pamba. Location 121 km from Kottayam in the southern part of Kerala Idukki lies en route to Munnar. Sight Seeing Apart from getting mesmerized by the breathtaking scenic beauty of Idukki, you can visit many sightseeing highlights of the hill resort.  Asia's biggest arched dam, Idukki Dam built across Periyar River, is an absolute must on the list of attractions. Another major tourist attraction is the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary Occupying an area 70 sq. km the sanctuary is the natural habitat for the elephant, bison, sambhar, deer as well as a wide variety of snakes and birds like the jungle foul, laughing thrush etc. Not far away from Idukki are the Cheruthani and Moolamattam, which deserve a visit. You can have views of the surroundings from the heights of Cheruthani and far away the city of Cochin. At Moolamattam is famous for being home to the powerhouse of the Idukki Hydroelectric Project. The mountains of Idukki are the perfect place for the adventure seekers to indulge in trekking. Excursions The famous tiger reserve of Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary at Thekkady makes an excellent excursion from Idukki. For the wildlife enthusiast, a tour to the sanctuary is something of an absolute must. The natural vegetation, verdant hills and an artificial lake make a visit to this sanctuary an experience once in a lifetime. Thekkady also offers you opportunities to indulge in trekking, elephant rides and boating. Another famous place fit for excursion from Idukki is another the hill resort of Peermade, once the summer retreat of the erstwhile rules of Tranvancore. Peermade is known for its gorgeous green grasslands, magnificent waterfalls and plantations of tea, coffee, rubber et al. Experience the nature at its exuberant best at the hill resort of Munnar. Munnar abounds with the tea plantations, forests and the wildlife.  Accommodation Idukki offers a wide range of accommodation options to the tourists including hotels, bungalows and guesthouses. Best Time to Visit An ideal climate, with temperatures not fluctuating too much, contributes to the tranquil setting of the hill resort of Idukki. As the hill station experiences mild climate throughout the year, you can visit it all round the year. How to reach here Kottayam is the nearest airport which caters to the air transport to Idukki. Rail and bus services connect Idukki with other places in Kerala as well as India.
Devikulam Introduction
Taking a tour to Devikulam means to live an experience that you will like to remember once and gain. Literally meaning "the pond or lake of the Devi", Devikulam is a small hill resort in the state of Kerala where the possibility of getting mesmerized by its sheer scenic grandeur is a rule rather than an exception. Legend has it that Sita of the Ramayana fame came here and bathed in the waters of the lake in Devikulam. Location Located an altitude of 1800 m above sea level, the hill resort of Devikulam is 16 km southwest of Munnar in the state of Kerala.  Devikulam Sight Seeing Foremost among the sightseeing attractions in the hill resort of Devikulam is the beautiful Sita Devi Lake with a backdrop of verdant hills. Named after Sita who once came here to take a bath in its water, the lake attracts tourists for its sacredness as well as its curative properties thanks to its mineral water. The lake also offers trout fishing resulting in the gathering of adventure seekers.Devikulam is a nature lovers' paradise. Mother Nature has been generous to this scintillating hill station in South India. Not far away from the lake is the spectacular Pallivasal Waterfalls that is frequented by the picnickers for the sheer manifestation of nature in its various ways. Tea plantations carried out in and around Devikulam in a large number is an added feather to the hill resort. The natural vegetation of the hill resort comprises the gum trees in red and blue. India profile arranges tour to the tea plantation area. Devikulam Sites Near By Apart from being a top tourist destination itself, Devikulam serves the base from where you can make some exciting excursion. Located at a distance of 50 km from Devikulam is the famous Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is the natural habitat for a number of species like elephants, sambars, leopards, and gaurs. You can also spot the highly endangered species of the Grizzled Giant Squirrel and the Star Tortoise. The watchtower is the idyllic place, which commands the incredible view of the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. Another highlight of the sanctuary is the Thoovanam Falls on the river Chinnar. Visitors can also make excursion to the Mattupetty Lake, which is nestled in the tea estates. You can have a marvelous view of the mist-layered hills.  Devikulam - Best time to visit The climate of the hill resort of Devikulam is mild throughout the year. SO you can take t a tour to the Devikulam anytime. Devikulam - How to Reach In order to reach Devikulam, you will have to climb a steep mountain track. The ascent to Devikulam from Kochi and Kottayam is of 149 km and 132 km and takes 4 and ½ hours 4 hrs respectively. Accommodation You can stay at the Guest House run by the Government which offers all the facilities suited to the requirements of a modern day tourists.
Fast Facts
Introduction Noted for its scenic beauty, Coorg is a beautiful hill resort in Karnataka. If you are looking for a picture post card hill resort that is enveloped in mist as you open your eyes in the morning, Coorg is the place to be in. Dotted with lush coffee plantations and sandal wood trees, Coorg offers a perfect blend of sight and smell. Coorg is also referred at Kodagu. History Not much is known about the history of Coorg, however the region was ruled by Lingayat and Kodavas. In 1785, Tipu Sultan reined the region. Later Coorg came under the British.  Places to visit Coorg has a number of beautiful villages that present a picture post card look. There are a number of picnic spots in Coorg that include the beautiful Abbey Falls. Most of the wonderful places are located near Madikeri, the district headquarter, which is located at an altitude of over 5,000 feet above sea level. Tadevendamol, the highest peak in the region is best for trekking. The peak offers beautiful view of the Arabian Sea in the distance. Nagarhole National Park is an ideal place for wildlife enthusiasts. Coorg also has few temples that one can visit. Located on the confluence of the Cauvery and Sujyothi, the Bagamandala Temple is built in traditional Kerala style. The Omkareshwara Temple dedicated to lord Shiva is another beautiful temple that you can visit. The temple is about 200 years old. Raja's Seat, at a short distance from the center of the town is wonderful spot that presents panoramic view of the area. It is believed that kings of Kodagu used to come here to see the sunset. Visiting time One of the beautiful hill resorts in south India, Coorg can be visited from November to April. Sites nearby There are a number of beautiful tourist spots around Coorg that you can visit during your tour to Coorg. Capitol Village just five kilometres from Coorg is a beautiful spot. Other places that you can visit include Mysore, Bangalore, Hassan and Mangalore. How to reach Bangalore is the nearest airport, which is 196 kilometres from Coorg. The nearest railway station is Mysore, which is at a distance of 55 kilometres.
 Fast Facts
Coonoor Introduction Incredibly scenic, Coonoor is one of the famous hill Stations in South India where exquisite panoramas and vistas unfold at every turn. Perched on the lovely Nilgiri hills in the state of Tamil Nadu, this beautiful hill resort is a destination for the discerning traveler. Blessed with a milder climate, Coonoor also offers some of the finest hiking and trekking in South India, which will enable you to be closest to the rolling mountains and lush green foliage of this hill resort. Coonoor Location Located on western part of Tamil Nadu, Coonoor is perched on a lower ridge of the Nilgiri Hills at an altitude of 1839 meters. This beautiful hill resort is 27 km north of Mettupalayam and 19 kms south of Ooty. Coonoor Past From accidental and humble beginnings in 1819, Coonoor has come a long way in becoming one of the most scenic hill resorts in South India. The main reason why it went on attracting visitors is its milder climate. The British made a beeline for this resort. Coonoor Sites to Visit A nature lover's paradise, the famous hill resort of Coonoor offers a lot of sites to visit. Start your excursion by visiting the Sim's Park, which derives its name from J.D. Sim, the secretary of the Madras Club in the year 1874. Situated in a deep ravine at an elevation of 1768 to 1798 mts. the park covers 12 hectares and treats you with an incredible variety of flora including the magnolia, pines, tree ferns and camellia, lending a special charm to the park. Another major landmark of Coonoor is the Pomological Station, one of the three experimental fruit gardens in the Nilgiris maintained by the Horticultural Department of the Tamil Nadu Government. The other two are Burliar and Kallar on the Coonoor - Mettupalayam Road. A research center of repute, the Pomological Station carries research on different fruits, which are grown here. Prominent among them are apples, plums, peaches, persimmons, lemons, apricots and pomegranates. Surplus fruits are sold to the public. The Bird watchers visiting Coonoor will be delighted to spot species like the cormorants, pipits, thrushes, parakeets, skylarks, Nilgiri verditer, etc. Coonoor Sites Near By While staying at the hill resort of Coonoor, holidaymakers have many excursion options to the nearby attractions. 7 Km from Coonoor are the scenic waterfalls of Law's Falls, located on the Coonoor-Mettupalayam Road. An alluring picnic spot, the falls gushes down from a height of 180 feet. Huge stretches of undisturbed sholas make the place a veritable paradise for nature lovers. 5.5 Km from upper Coonoor is located the extremely charming picnic spot of Lamb's rock. Named after Captain Lamb who made a narrow path to this spot, the Lamb's Rock offers mesmerizing views of the Hulikal spur, Hulikal ravine and the Mountain Railway. Another major nearby attraction is the viewpoint of Dolphin's Nose, located 10 Kms from Coonoor. An exceptional rock of incredible proportions, the place offers the marvelous panoramas of the Nilgiris. Another beautiful picnic spot, which can be visited for a day trip from Coonoor, is the historical place of Droog, once Tipu Sultan's outpost. Situated at a height of 6000 feet the place can be approached only if you can opt for a 3 km long trekking path. Apart from Coonoor, another famous and more popular hill resort nestling in the lap of the Niligiri Hills is Ooty also known as Udhagamandalam and Ootacamund. 19 kms from Coonoor, the spectacular hill station of Ooty offers something for everybody.... relaxation, fun, adventure... Coonoor What to Buy There is plenty to keep the shopper occupied and pleased at the hill resort of Coonoor. Coonoor features great shopping and has a number of well-known shops where you can buy the South Indian artifacts. Reaching the hill resort of Coonoor is an easy affair. Auto-rickshaws, taxis and buses are the usual means of transport in and around Coonoor. The nearest airport to the hill resort of is at Coimbatore, 71 km from Coonoor. The hill station lies on the toy-train line between Mettupalayam (28 km) and Ooty (19 km). The town is connected to other important places of Tamil Nadu by buses. Coonoor Best Time to Visit The climate of Coonoor is pleasant throughout the year. This spectacular hill resort of Tamil Nadu experiences mild climate from April to June. During the winter months (November to February) the climate is cool. Coonoor get its share of rain thanks to the southwestern monsoons from July and September. So the best time to visit the hill station is from October to March. Coonoor Where to Stay There is no dearth of accommodation in Coonoor. Accommodation options range from luxury to budget hotels catering to those who travel to this beautiful hill resort. Coonoor Fairs and Festival The hill resort is famous for festivals and fairs, which attract people in large number. One of the famous festivals is the annual fruit and vegetable festival that is held at the Sim's Park in the month of May. A part of the summer festival it attracts people from all parts of the world. The tea and tourism festival is another important festival of Coonoor held in the month of January. The festival attracts tea connoisseurs from all over the world. Thanks to its location on the Nilgiri Hills Coonoor is also famous for tea plantations.
Anantagiri Hills - Introduction Anantagiri is a beautiful hill resort in the state of Andhra Pradesh. It is popular among tourist because of its natural beauty. The unexplored and peaceful environment of the hill station attracts every one including nature lovers, tourists on vacation and pilgrims. Watching the panoramic views ranging from sunrise, sunset, thick forests and mountain ranges covers the distance from Vishakapatnam to Anantagiri. The Anantagiri hill resort is a perfect getaway from the hot and humid weather of the summer months. Weather Anantagiri hills experiences a similar moderate weather through out the year. The season for tourist is all the year round and you can plan your vacation at the hill resort according to your own convenience. The beauty of the hills is doubled because of the cool weather and calm environs. The Anantagiri hill resort is perfect for honeymooners.  Location Anantagiri hills are located at a distance of 40 km from Vishakhapatnum in the ranges of the Eastern Ghats. Anantagiri is on the top of the Elysian Tirumala Hills and is only 17 km from Ark valley, another hill resort. Sightseeing There are a lot of natural sights to see and relax in Anantagiri hill resort. The views that the hill of Anantagiri offers will be remembered all through your lifetime. The coffee plantations offer a wonderful sight to remember. The mango groves and various other fruit orchards have a smell to relish. There are huge waterfalls, eye-catching ravines and dangerously beautiful gorges to make tourists forget all their worries and tensions. The river Musi or Muchkanda originates from Anantagiri and flows along with several small streams. The medicinal and herbal plants comprise the flora of the hill resort. There is a sacred lake of Bhavanasi for you to visit. The hills of Anantagiri are called the Badrinath of the South because of this lake. You can enjoy the nature at its best here and replenish all your lost energies in this hill resort, which is more of a health station. Excursions You can go to see the Borra caves from Anantagiri hills, which is near Vishakhapatnum. The beautiful natural caves are made out of limestone and are said to be almost one million year old. The Borra caves have attracted a lot of tourists and are a perfect option fir excursion from Anantagiri hill resort. Visiting Anantagiri Hills By Road: the hill resort of Anantagiri is well connected with Hyderabad, Vishakhapatnum and other cities by buses. The State Transport and other services provide the buses. Hill resorts in India can provide you with All India Tourist Permit private cars and taxis to take you to Anantagiri hills. By Rail: The nearest railway station to Anantagiri hills is at a distance of 3km at Srikakulam. The railway line of the Eastern Ghats is famous for being one of the highest broad gauge tracks in the world. Accommodation - Anantagiri Hills There are Hotels, Inspection Bungalows, and Private Cottages available to suit all types of budgets at Anantagiri Hill Resort. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Sites nearby
The origin of Khandala is shrouded in obscurity. The hill resort formed part of the territory of the great Maratha leader Chattrapati Shivaji, who is credited with organizing the Maratha into a military power. Later it came under the rule of the Peshwa, during whole reign Maratha power reached its zenith. Khandala was taken by the British from the hands of the Peshwas who subsequently lost power to the British. 
Adjacent to the Sim's Park is located the Pasteur Institute. Established in 1907, the institute conducts research on Rabies and polio and has carved a niche in the field of developing vacancies against these diseases. You will need special permission from the Director of the institute to visit the institute, as it is not a public place. 
Coonoor How to Reach 