Himachal Pradesh

The Baijnath temple has been continuously under worship ever since its construction in 1204 A.D. by two local merchants named Ahuka and Manyuka. The two long inscriptions in the porch of the temple indicate that a temple of Shiva existed on the spot even before the present one was constructed. The present temple is a beautiful example of the early medieval north Indian temple architecture known as Nagara style of temples.

The temple consists of an ‘Adytum’ surrounded by a spire of the usual conical shape with a ‘Mandap’ covered with a low pyramid shaped roof. The ‘Adytum’ contains the Lingam. There is fine sculpture work to be associated with Ravana, who worshipped Shiva at this spot and gained immortality. Baijnath is one of the ‘Twelve Jyotirlingams’. Shivratri of Baijnath is a well attended fair.

Baijnath Temple Baijnath

Around Baijnath

Taragarh Palace :Muslims used this place to propagate the ideas of Islam and in 1933 the ‘Nawab of Bhavalpur’ built a palace there, which was named as Alhilal. Till 1947, the place remained as the Summer capital of the Nawab.

Sujanpur Tira

The historic town of Sujanpur Tira is known for its palace, now in ruins, built by Raja Sansar Chand. It is famous for the temples of Gauri Shankar, Murli Manohar and Narbadeshwar. There is the largest ground of Himachal Pradesh which is made use of as a meeting place and also for sports activities.

Trilokpur

It is 41 km. from Kangra. The natural cave has attractive pillars of limestone on the floor of the cave by the percolation of water from the roof. It is something like stalagmites. The cave is dedicated to Shiva.

Quick Facts

State: Himachal Pradesh
Distt: Kangra
Destination: Baijnath
Climate: In winter, the temperature can drop to freezing point when heavy woollens are required. During summer, the climate is mild and light woollens/cottons are recommended.
Altitude: Baijnath is situated at an altitude of 1125 m.
Best time to visit: All the year round.

How to get there

By Train: There is also available a toy train from Pathankot to Paprola-Baijnath which runs on narrow gauge from Pathankot to Jogidernagar.

By Air: Nearest airport is Gaggal from Baijnath. Indian Airlines flies to Dharamsala thrice a week from Delhi.

By Road: Baijnath is very well connected by all weather roads to Delhi via Chandigarh and to Manali via Mandi.

Beautiful view of Shiv Temple Baijnath on the eve of Shivratri Festival

When ever we are planning our trips ahead, we make it a point to keep some money aside just for shopping. Shopping consists of an integral part of our travelogue. A vacation is never complete without a shopping spree.

May it be buying knick knacks or souvenirs for your near and dear ones at home or perchance buying handicrafts products that reflects the culture and aura of the place that your visiting, all calls for a hard bargain. If you are visiting Shimla, you will be spoilt for choice of what to buy and what to discard. Shopping in Shimla is a traveler’s delight.

Stroll along leisurely in the The Mall road where a row of shops tempts you to splurge money without any rhyme or reason. Reminiscent of the Colonial past of India, the Mall road in Shimla is a study in varied rooflines, colonial buildings with French windows, meandering roads, clock tower, assorted columns.

All these factors culminates to give Mall road a considerable character of its own somewhat in the same vein as that of Colaba in Mumbai or New market in Kolkata.

If you are Shopping in Shimla, be sure to visit The Cottage industries Emporium. It has a variety of hand woven carpets, shawls, blankets in traditional weaves, as well as other items like handmade paper and exquisitely carved wooden table. These portray the art of the Himachal artisans at their best. The scene in these woven carpets and shawls are typical of the place, some bordered with intricate design and others depicting Himachali life and mountains. Also try out the Himachali hat which comes in vivid colors and designs.

Lakkar Bazaar is another place where you should visit while shopping in Shimla. This is a treasure trove for those wanting to drool at antiques and wooden works from this region. The wooden artifacts made of softwood, which is available only in the mountains calls for supreme artwork and miniature portraits. Though the prices may seem high, some good bargaining will see you through.