Hill - Station of India (L to Z)

Ladakh Hill Station
Historic Places to See- The most attractive features of the landscape of Leh are the Buddhist Gompas (monoasteries).The Gompas are situated on the highest points of the mountain spurs or sprawl over cliffsides,located in vicinity of villages and provide focus for the faith of Buddhists.The famous religious places include:-
Hemis: Situated 40 Kms.from Leh,Hemis is the wealthiest,best known and biggest gompa of Ladakh.The annual festival of the gompa is held in summer in honour of Guru Padma Sambhav's birth anniversary.It also has the largest thanka(scroll painting on silk or brocade) in Ladakh which is unfurled once in 12 years.Hemis was built in 1630 A.D.during the reign of Sengge Namgyal and flourished under the Namgyal dynasty.

Alchi: The gompa is situated on the banks of the Indus,70 Kms from Leh and dates a thousand years back.The gompa os no longer an active religious centre and is looked after by monks from the Likir monastery.

Spituk: The gompa stands prominently on the top of a hillock,8 Kms.from Leh,and commands a panaoramic view of the Indus Valley for miles.Many icons of Buddha and five thankas are found in 15th century monastery.There is also a collection of ancient masks,antique arms,and an awe inspiring image of Mahakal.

Phyang: The monastery is situated 17 Kms.from Leh on the Leh-Kargil road.It was built by Tashi Namgyal in the later half of the 16th century A.D.and looks like a place from a distance.The gompa belongs to the Red Cap sect of the Buddhists. Hundreds of icons of Budha are kept on wooden shelves.

Shey: 15 Kms upstream from Leh.The palace is belived to have been the seat of power of the pre-Tibetan kings.A 7.5 metre high copper statue of Buddha,plated with gold,and the largest of its kind,is installed in the palace.

Thikse: The Thikse monastery is spectacularly situated 19 Kms from Leh.It is one of the largest and architecturally most impressive gompas.The gompa has images,stupas and wall paintings of Buddha which are exquisite.

Jama Masjid: The historical mosque is situated in the heart of Leh town. It was built in 1666-67 A.D.consequent to an agreement between the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and then ruler of Ladakh, Deldan Namgyal.

Leh Palace: The palace is a distinguished monument and a historical building.The nine- storeyed palace was built by the 17th century illustrious ruler of Ladakh Sengge Namgyal.

Kargil: The Distt has one of the oldest civilizations. These tribes are Dards and baltis. The baltis are said to be descendents of Sakas a central Asian race. Dards are located in Dras. There is a old stone statue near Dras. General zorawar Singh while conquering the area via Warwan Pass constructed a fort at proper Kargil

Manali Hill Station:

Places around Manali
At a distance of 3 km northwest of Manali is Old Manali, famous for its orchards and old guesthouses. There is ruined fort here by the name of Manaligarh. There is also the Manu Maharishi Temple, dedicated to sage Manu.

Vaishisht- around 3 km from Manali, also boasts a pair of old stone temples, opposite each other above the main square. Dedicated to the local patron saint Vashista, the smaller of the two opens on to a partially covered courtyard, and is adorned with elaborate woodcarvings. Those lining the interior of the shrine, blackened by years of oil-lamp and incense smoke, are particularly fine. The temple tanks are underground hot-water/sulfur springs.

Rohtang Pass- at an altitude of 13,050 feet above sea level, is another adventure tourist site where it can be cold even on a summer day. Close by is a small lake called Dassaur Lake. Beas Kund, the source of river Beas, is also nearby. In winter, the road of Rothang Pass is closed.

Solang Valley - popularly known as Snow Point, is 13 km northwest of Manali and famous for its 300-meter ski lift. It is a picturesque spot and offers splendid views of glaciers and the snow-capped mountains. Jagatsukh, the former capital of Manali, is also an important spot.

Adventure - Skiing is a major pastime in Manali. Facilities for skiing are available at Solang Nullah (January-March) and Rohtang La (during summer). The Mountaineering Institute at Solang Nullah is a good training institute. Heli skiing is possible at the deep snowfields.

The Mountaineering Institute and Allied Sports is about 3 km from the Mall and offers mountaineering and kayaking courses. Kayaking is possible on the Beas River. There are several good hikes from Manali. The 12 km hike up the western banks of the Beas to the Solang Valley is noteworthy.

Mount Abu Hill Station
Places To see :
Delwara Jain Temple: These beautifully carved temples built between 11th and 13th century A.D. are sheer elegance in marble, dedicated to the jain Tirthankaras. The Vimal Vasahi temple is the oldest of these dedicated to the first Tirthankara. Built in 1031 A.D. (by Vimal Shah-a merchant and representative of then Gujarat ruler), it is a superb example of temple architecture.The central shrine has an image of Rishabhdev and large courtyard with 52 small shrines,each housing a beautiful statue of thirthankaras with 48 elegantly carved pillars form the entrance to the courtyard.The Lun Vasahi Temple, dedicated to the 22nd Tirthankaras-Neminath, was built in 1231 A.D. by two brothers-Vastupal and Tejpal,Ministers of Raja Vir Dhawal, a ruler of Gujarat-belonging to the Porwal Jain community.With door casings, pillars,architraves,and sculptures on porticos,the temple is a fine specimen of craftsmanship.

Gaumukh Temple: A natural spring flowing through a sculpted cow’s head gives the shrine its name. The famous ‘yagna’ of sage Vashishtha was performed here. A beautifully sculpted hill temple of Arbuada-the mighty serpent stands against the beautiful backdrop. Nearby is the magnificent marble image of Nandi, the celestial bull rescued by Arbuada.

Sunset Point: Spectacular sight of the setting sun when the hills are covered in the golden glow can be viewed from here.

Honeymoon Point: Also known as Andra Point, it offers an enchanting view of the verdant plains and valleys. The place looks most beautiful during the dusk hours.

Shri Raghunathji Temple: Situated near the ‘Nakki’ lake is the temple dedicated to Shri Raghunathji with a beautiful image of the deity that was placed here in 14th century A.D. by Shri Ramanand the famous Hindu preacher.

Gardens and Parks: Beautifully laid parks and gardens are interspersed throughout the hilly paradise. Ashok Vatika,Gandhi park, Municipal Park,Shaitan Singh Park and Terrace Garden are some of the noteworthy gardens.

Museum and Art Gallery: Located at the Raj Bhawan, it was a collection of archaeological excavations dating back to 8th-12th century A.D. It also has Jain bronze carvings,brassworks etc. for viewing.

Guru Shikhar(Highest peak): Guru Shikhar, the highest peak of Mount Abu, is also perhaps the most beautiful. There is certain serenity about the temple built atop this peak. The temple might just have stepped out of a fairy tale, with only a small portion in pink jutting out of an otherwise plain white chalk building.

Nakki(the lake): In the heart of the town, at one end of the Mall is Nakki Lake, which has an interesting history. It is said that it was drawn by the finger nails (nakk) of a sage, Balam Rasia, in response to the demands of the stepmother of the girl he wished to marry. The girl, a princess, and a daughter of the then King of Abu, was also in love with the sage, but because of the evil stepmother the affair ended in tragedy, and has been immortalized in a temple of the Kunwari Kanya, alongside which stands a statue of her lover. The lake too, has survived to tell the tale. Picturesquely set, with the hills rising all around it, the lake has several islets to which you can hire boats. An interesting facet is the many rock formations around the lake. They have been named Toad Rock, Nun Rock, Nandi Rock and Camel Rock because of their resemblance to these figures. The road appears to be looking broodingly down towards the lake, as if contemplating jumping in. Nun Rock is a large smooth rock, as it supposedly looks a woman with a veil. The climb up to these rocks, through the wooded forests is a beautiful one, with each of the rocks on the way making unique formations, fissures and shapes. There are rumors that you might run into a bear on your way up, but the climb is well worth the risk! And one can take courage from the fact that none of the travelers in the last few years have encountered the animal.

Munnar Hill Station
Place to See :
The Kundale Tea Plantation : An area surrounding a lovely lake that offers some of the most stunning views of the region. If you arrive on a Sunday, make sure to drop in at the small Kundale Club in the afternoon, where the local planters gather with their family.

Eravilkulam National Park: By driving north from Munknar for 30 minutes and then hiking few kilometres, you reach this sanctuary which is home to three thousand free-roaming ibex.

Rajmalai: The regilon lyilng beyond the road entruy into Eravikulam. At 2695 metres, Anamudi -the highest peak in South India looms here.

The High Range Clulb: Charmingly colonial in style, thils wicker-and -old-teak club still serves as a social centre for the far-flung farmers of the region around Munnar. Housing an elegant lounge, a delightful dining room, the obnligatory gentlemen's bar, billliards room and a library.

Mussoorie Hill Station
Places to See
Municipal Garden: A picnic spot having a beautiful garden and an artificial mini lake with boating facilities. It is located at a distance of 4kms by cycle rickshaw, pony or by car and only 2 kms on foot via Waverly Convent Road.

Gun Hill: Enjoy a Ropeway ride to the second highest peak of Mussoorie. It can also be negotiated by bridles path which forks-off from Mall Road near Kutchery and to reach takes about twenty minutes. The Ropeway distance is only 400 mtrs. And the sheer thrill of the ride is memorable.
Gun Hill offers a beautiful panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges namely Bunderpunch, Srikantha, Pithwara and Gangotri group etc. and a bird's eye view of Mussoorie town and Doon Valley. During pre-independence days a gun mounted on this top used to be fired heralding mid-day to enable people to adjust their watches and hence this name.


Nainital Hill Station
Famous Places to See:
Guano Hills, Pangot. These hills in the Pangot village are excellent for walks through forests of thick oak, bamboo and deodar. Some rare birds such as the grey woodpecker and black-chinned babbler are found in the forests.Nanda Devi Temple, Naini Lake. The temple was destroyed during the Landslip of 1880, and was later rebuilt. It is located on the lake's northern shore.Snow View, Sher-Ka-Danda Ridge. Located at an altitude of 2270 m, Snow View offers spectacular views of the Naina Devi Peak. It can be reached by the Aerial Express Ropeway. Round trip:Rs 50. One-way: Rs 30.Gurney House, Aryapatta Hill. This was the former home of Jim Corbett. It has been converted into a museum and houses Corbett memorabilia. St. John in the Wilderness, Mallital. This charming church was named and founded by the Bishop of Calcutta.
Childer's Lodge: Highest Peak of Mussoorie near Lal Tibba. It is about 5 kms from the Tourist Office and one can go on horse back or on foot. Snow view from this spot is exhilarating.

Camel's Back Road: It starts from Kulri Bazar near Rink Hall and ends at Library Bazar covering a total distance of about 3 kms. The main charm of this froad is horse riding and wlking. Sunset view of the Himalayas is superb. Camel's Rock with a life like resemblace can be seen from the spot near Mussoorie Public school.

Jharipani Fall: 8.5 kms from Mussoorie on Mussoorie- Jharipani Road. Visitors can go by bus or by car upto 7 kms to Jharipani from where the fall is 1.5 kms, on foot.

Bhatta Fall: 7 kms from Mussoorie on Mussoorie-Dehradun road. Access by car or bus upto Balta village from where the fall is 3kms by car or foot. An ideal spot for bathing anf picnics.

Kempty Fall: 15 kms from Mussoorie on the Yamunotri Road having an altitude of 4500 ft. It has the distinction of being the biggest and prettiest waterfall located in a beautiful valley and is surrounded by high mountains. Bath at the foot of the falls is refresshing and enjoyabled for children and adults alike.

Nag Devta Temple: An ancient temple situated on Cart Mackenjie Road and is about 6 kms from Mussoorie. Vehicles can go right upto the spot. It Provies a charming view of Doon Valley as well as of Mussoorie.

Mussoorie Lake: A newly developed picnic spot, situated on Mussoorie- Dehradun road and is about 6 kms from Mussoorie. It is a delightful spot. Pedal boats are availble. It commands an enchanting view of Doon Valley and nearby villages.

Van Chetna Kendra: At a distance of about 2 kms on Tehri bye pass road, this place is developed as a picnic spot and has a park surrounded with pine forest and flowering shrubs, and is approachable by foot or taxi/car. The main attraction is the wildilife of the park like Ghurar, Kanankar, Himalayan Peacock, Monal etc.

Sir George Everest House: 6 kms The Park Estate of sir George Everest, First Surveyor General of India, Who had his offce and residence here, is approachable by road. The highest peak in the world, Mount Everest, is named after him.

Jwalaji Temple (Benog Hill): 9 kms 6to the west of Mussoorie and at an altitude of 2104 mtrs. Is the Jwalaji Temple. It is situated on the top of the Benog Hill and has an idol of Mata Durga in it. The temple is surrounded by thick forests and offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks, Doon valley and Yamuna valley


Nilgiri Hill Station

Hill Stations in Nilgiris:
Ooty : Udhagamandalam (Ooty), the headquarters of Nilgiri district, is popularly known as the "Queen of hill stations' among the tourist circuits. It is situated at a distance of 105 kilometres away from Coimbatore. The Botanical Gardens and the Doddabetta peak (the highest peak in the Nilgiris, located 10-km from Ooty) are the major attractions.

Kotagiri: Kotagiri is located 16-km away from Ooty and it is the oldest hill station of the Nilgiris. Kotagiri is situated at an altitude of 1,950m, which was once a British hill resort, that dates back to 1819 and is quieter than Ooty. Elk falls, Kodanad viewpoint and Catherine falls are a few places to visit.

Coonoor: Coonoor is situated on the eastern side of the southern extremity of the Doddabetta range, at an altitude of 1,858 metres above the sea level. It is the second largest hill station in the Nilgiris. Coonoor is located 19-km away from Ooty and is essentially a small tea garden town where the weather remains pleasantly cool throughout the year.

Ooty Hill Station
Places To Visit :Government Botanical Garden (2 Kms): This garden was laid out earlier by Marquis of Tweedale, the then governor of Madras in 1847. This garden covers an area of 22 acres. A fossil tree trunk of 20 million years is preserved here. The flora of the garden consist of six section comprising varieties of tree species, grass carpet, variety of ferns, fashioned beds laid beds laid out in an Italian style, multi coloured flowering plants, house ferns and orchids and nurseries. This garden will create tourist's mind a memorable one.

Lake View: About one Km. distance, an artificial lake can be seen with a charming look, which was formed in 1824 by Mr. John Sullivan,the then Collector of Coimbatore. Tamil Nadu tourism Development Corporation provided the following facilities to the tourists.

Mini Garden: Tourists can visit this mini garden which is on the way to the Boat House. The children amusement park is housed here. A snack bar is also available. It is maintained by T.T.D.C.

Doddabetta: It is the highest peak (2623 meters) in the Nilgiris and is about 10 Kms from Ooty. It lies at the junction of the Western & Eastern Ghats and offer beautiful vistas of the Nilgiri Hill ranges. It is surrounded by dense sholas. One can have a panoramic view of the landscape

The Mukkurthi Peak & National Park: Mukkurthi Peak is about 40 Kms. form Ooty. The Mukkurthi National Park is located on the Southern corner of the Nilgiris Plateau. The area contains a viable population of Nilgiri Thar (Hamitragus hilocrius). The Kollaribetta and Nilgiris Peak are other major peaks around. The area is chained by innumberable beautiful and perennial little streams,which fall into Bhavani Puzha. The Silent Vally in the Western Ghat is located on the Western side of these ranges. A fascinating feature of the Mukkurthi Sanctuary is its endemism and relationship with Himalayan Flora and fauna.

Hindustan Photo Films: The HPF, one of the major industrial units ot the district, is a public sector enterprise. This unit is located (about 5 Km away from Ooty railway station) over a sprawling area of over 300 acres, near the Ooty golf-links on the Ooty- Mysore road. The HPF was inaugurated by Mrs. Indra Gandhi, Prime Minister, in January, 1967. This industrial unit is currently producing Indu roll films which are used for taking photographs; Indu X-ray films, the quality of which is acknowledged to be among the best in the world; Indu bromide paper on which photographs are printed; and Induaerographic for geological and defence mapping, industrial X - ray film, laser recording film, CAT film, special film for space photography, oscilloscope direct print paper, photo typesetting paper and range of chemicals for the film processing.

Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary: This Sanctuary lies at an elevation of 1140 mts in the junction
point of Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and extends over and area of 321 sq.kms. A variety of habitats ranging from tropical ever green forest, moist teak forest, secondary grass lands and swamps are found. Panther, Sambar, spotted Deer, Barking Deer, Wild boar,Porcupine etc. The avifauna is varied with Minivets. Hornbills, Fairy Blue Birds, Jungle Fowls etc.
Pykara: It is situated about 21 kms from Ooty, on the Ooty-Mysore Road. The tourist attraction are well protected fenced sholas, Toda settlements, undisturbed grassy meadows and also a good wildlife habitat.The Pykara Dam,Pykara falls and the reservoir attracts many tourists.There is a forest Rest House at Pykara. a boat House with Restaurant is available.

Deer Park: It is located at a distance of one Km. on lake road which has Sambar, Chital and Hares besides waterbirds.

THE NARROW TRAIL: This is a journey nobody should miss. A journey where you jostle with unimaginable crowds and squeeze into tiny coaches, a journey where you feel you can actually reach out and touch the elusive Nilgiris. It starts at Mettupalayam, 46 km southeast of Ooty, where you board the Blue Mountain Express that gets pushed by an engine instead of being pulled! When you hear frequent references to the Ooty mountain train, you would somehow conjure up Lilliputian images of people sitting in orderly, storybook fashion. That' s sure mistake, for this small train of the Nilgiris couldn' t be more full, with human forms oozing from every pore! And if you still harbor rosy images, try clambering on from Coonoor where it stops en route to Mettupalayam. This is a precious travel tip, mind you. But once you are on, it' s heaven. The overpowering Nilgiri landscape has the ability to make you oblivious of the human ocean around you and the greenery is bliss. It' s a memorable 4. 5-hour journey, so don' t miss it for anything.

Shimla Hill Station
Famous Places to See:

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: 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 : 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: 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: 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.

Narkanda : 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.


Rampur : 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: 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.

Jubbal: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: 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. 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).

Srinagar Hill Station
Places to See:
Shalimar Bagh, the Moghul garden in front of the Dal lake built by Emperor Jahangir. The white mosque is also beautiful but be careful, women can enter only the first part of the mosque.

Ziarati Hazrati Youza Asouph, in the Khanyar area, about 150 meters NW of Dastgir Saheb mosque & shrine. This tomb, also known as Roza Bal, is believed by some to be the tomb of Jesus (part of the larger theory that he survived the crucifixion and made his way to Kashmir where he lived until at least the age of 100). It has been made popular by recent books such as Jesus Lived in India by Holger Kersten among others. It's down a little side road - ask around, pretty much anyone in the area can point you in the right direction.

Gulmarg Biosphere Reserves: The reserve area is located at a distance of 48-km from Srinagar, to its southwest. It is famous for retaining several rare and endangered species such as the musk deer, and a rich and varied avifauna.

Hari Parbat Fort: The 18th century fort tops the Sharika Hill, which is clearly visible, rising to the west of Dal Lake. The fort was constructed by Atta Mohammed Khan from 1776 but the surrounding wall is much older, it was built between 1592 and 1598 during the rule of Akbar.

Hazratbal Mosque: The most important Muslim shrine of Kashmir, that commands the reverence of the people beyond measure, is undoubtedly the Hazratbal Shrine, which is situated on the left bank of the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar. This unmatched reverence is anchored in the love and respect for the Prophet.

Mughal Gardens: Set some distance back from the lake, but reached by a small canal, the Shalimar were built by Emperor Jehangir for his wife Nur Jahan, 'light of the world' in 1616. The Nishat Bagh is another lovely garden with its 12 terraces representing the 12 signs of the zodiac, which descend gradually and seem to almost merge into the lake. Smallest of the Srinagar Mughal gardens, measuring just 108 metres by 38 metres, the Chasma Shahi, or 'Royal Spring', are well up the hillside, above the Nehru Memorial Park.

Nagin Lake:Known as the 'Jewel In The Ring', Nagin is generally held to be the most beautiful of the Dal lakes. Its name comes from the many trees, which encircle the small, deep blue lake. Nagin is only separated from the Larer Dal lakes by a narrow causeway and it also has a number of houseboats moored around its perimeter