Himachal Pradesh

Jubbal situated in Himachal Pradesh this is the 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.

This is one of the beautiful places which attract tourists from all over. This former hill kingdom is in the hills east of Shimal, near the valley of the Pabbar River, 444 km north east of Delhi. This is one for lovers of reclusive and exclusive natural retreats, connoisseurs of the eccentric a declectic with a yen for the good life. Headquarters of an erstwhile princely state, Jubbal’s newest claim to fame is its superbly refurbished palaceturned heritage property.

You almost expect to walk in and find a sleeping beauty, but it is snow white’s bane that is the fruit of this valley of temples. When your palate wants refreshing after the local dainties, walk into the region’s renowned orchards for a bite of the local crop non pareil apples.

You will be torn between the orchards on the slopes and the river nearby. If you are not that keen on nature, you could sample the thousand year old temples of Durga and Siva. Also consider the challenge of driving almost 22 km in the hills before setting out on shank’s pony to a mountain lake or tribal villages not linked by road.

A 3 half hours drive out of Shimla brings you to this fairy tale palace. Perched in a little hollow amid the hills, Jubbal Palace looks gingerbread enough to eat. Himachali Gothick, Architecture buffs can debate it through, but you won’t care once firmly ensconced in its art deco interiors.

Hatkeshwari Temple and Shiva Temple

The Hatkeshwari Temple is not one of those five-by-five bathroom-titled rooms that are passed off as “ancient” temples in tourist brochures. Locals believe the Pandavas first built this temple during their exile. However, experts date it to between 800 and 1000 AD. It was originally built in the Shikhara Style, but was later restyled by a ruler of the erstwhile Jubbal princely state in the late-19th century. It now looks like a two-story pagoda in slate and deodar wood. However, the sanctum sanctorum and the idol remain unchanged.

The Shiva Temple, though built a little later, actually looks older because of its stonewalls and the idols carved on them. Here, the restyling was limited to the roof andthe temple remains a squat, single story structure. Check out the five deols, or devalayas – small stone temples — to its left. They represent the shikhara style and remain unchanged. Hatkoti is a very small village and its inhabitants begin and end their day at these temples. VIPs and devotees from other parts of the state pass through from time to time. but crowds are practically unknown. Try not to miss the evening aarti. It is a very soothing experience, sans loudspeakers and bhajans that are parodies of Bollywood numbers.

Famous Palace Around Jubbal

Khara Pathar 9 km

Just before Hatkoti, Khara Pathar towers at 8,770ft. Apart from the apple orchards, deodars and pines crowd its slopes. A 7 km jeep track from here leads up to the Giri Ganga Temple, near the source of the Giri.

Rohru 31 km

Rohru is Shimla district’s apple hub and the hills surrounding this town and Hatkoti are covered with orchards. Though the best time to see ripe fruit is in April, a breathtaking sight of pale white blooms. Just be careful not to trespass.

A modest town 31 km beyond Jubbal, this is a major centre for the apple trade and has the only running HPTDC hotel in this belt. Rohru also has a temple dedicated to Shikhru Devta, a local deity.

Kotkhai 33 km

At a height of 5,774 ft, this is the point of entry to the apple country stretching past Rohru. But the major attraction in Kotkhai is its beautiful palace with exquisite, heavily cared wooden pillars.

Chirgaon 40 km

The motorable road ends here. Two small streams, Andhra and Gumma, join the Pabbar River. Adventure seekers can take off from here on a long trek to Dodra Kwar, the remotest village across the 13,845 ft Chansal Pass, which remains open from May to October. Chirgaon also boasts a trout hatchery.

Getting There

Road Ways: The only way to reach Jubbal from Shimla 97 km is by road NH22 via Kufri and Theog, then SH10 to Chhaila, 13km away, then on to Kothai, another 19km away, then Khara Pathar 24 km away an dthen another 9 km to Jubbal. The drive from Delhi takes 11 hours.

Nearest Railway Station: Kalka 191 km/ 6 hours. Taxi to Jubbal Costs Rs 2,000.

Where to Stay and Eat

The Jubbal Palace (Telephone: 01781-252001-02. Tariff Rs 4,500)

No visit to the state capital Shimla is complete without visiting Jakhu Hill. This hill looms over Shimla town and is the geographical nucleus. This temple is dedicated to the monkey God Hanuman. Dedicated to the monkey god, Hanuman, Jakhu Temple is east of the town centre near the highest point of the Shimla ridge at 2455 m. A steep 45 minute walk from Scandal Point, it offers fine views over the surrounding valleys out to the snow-capped peaks, and over Shimla itself. Jakhu is also a beautiful spot to see the morning sun rise and sun set. Appropriately, there are many monkeys around the temple. Its a steep 45 minute walk from Scandal Point.

The Jakhu Temple in Shimla is situated on the top of Jakhu Hill, at an altitude of 2.5 kms. The temple in Shimla is dedicated to lord Hanuman, and is said to be existing from the times of Ramayana and is said to be formed when lord Hanuman visited Jakhu hill. As per legends, Hanuman visited this place during the famous Rama – Ravana fight. Lakshman, the younger brother of Rama, was critically injured during the fight and the only medicinal herb which could have saved his life was available in the Himalayan range. Hanuman came to Himalayas, but got confused, so as to which was the particular herb. Out of desperation, he dug out the whole mountain, which contained the herbs and flew to Lanka, where injured Lakshman and his doctor were waiting for him. On his way back, Hanuman rested on the Jakhu hills, and the top of the mountain got flat by his and mountain’s weight. The temple of Jakhu has since been highly revered by the locals. The shrine of the temple is the foot prints of Hanuman.

In most of the Hanuman temples in India, one can come across numerous monkeys and Jakhu is no exception. There are hundreds of monkeys in and around the temple. Though mostly very peaceful, they can attack a person, if provocated. Pilgrims offer them eatables, which they readily accept.

The Jakhu Temple in Shimla is situated at an altitude of 2455 Mts. The temple is dedicated to lord Hanuman, the monkey god in Indian mythology. Hanuman was the most faithful aide of lord Rama (India’s most revered mythological hero). The temple of Hanuman is in the thick forests of Jakhu hills, and is on top the Jakhu Hill. Jakhu is derived from Hindi word Yakhsa. Yakshas are the mythological character in Hindu mythology, who are a link between human and gods. The original dates of temple is not known, but it is believed to be existing from the times of Ramayana, a pre historic event as per ancient Hindu texts. The Jakhu hill is the highest peak around Shimla, and is famous for its trekking options. The Jakhu hill offers excellent views of sunrise, sunset, mountains and town. The hill is full of narrow paths and roads which are an enjoyable walks.

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Hanuman relaxed on this very spot when he was transporting ‘Sanjeevani’ the medicinal herb from the Himalayas to Lord Lakshman. The herb saved Lord Lakshman’s life. The place was named after the learned sage Yaaku-who meditated here. There are many monkeys around Jakhu Temple, but they do not attack visitors. Some pilgrims to Jakhu Temple offer the monkeys edible eatables, which they accept with alacrity. The approach to the temple is through a dense forest of deodars. Jakhu Temple is easily accessible from Shimla city. The temple is a 45 minute walk from Shimla Ridge. You can also take a pony to visit Jakhu Temple. Jakhu Temple offers a superb vantage point for witnessing the ethereal Himalayan skyline during sunrise or sunset. Jakhu Temple is situated at a height of around 2 Km from the base of Jakhu hill. To reach the temple, a trek of 2 kms, through dense pine forests is required. The trek is very tiring. One can also hire ponies from the base of hills, to take a to and fro ride to temple. Walking sticks are also available at the shops on the base of Jakhu hill.

Jhakhu Temple

Everyone wants to see heaven but no one wants to die. This maxim no longer seems to be rational because heaven has landed here on earth for you and me to admire. At a mere distance of 67km from Mandi lies a paradise by the name of Janjheli. Beautiful is an understatement of sorts while one is describing the breathtaking vistas of this hilly pocket in the District Mandi of Himachal Pradesh, India. This comes as no surprise that Britishers were so taken with the lush green meadows of the place that they were bent upon making Janjheli as the summer capital instead of Shimla. But for the adamant ruler of Janjheli, their dreams couldn’t be materialized. Situated at a height of 2150 metres in Thunag tehsil, Mandi district, Janjehli can be approached via Karsog too.

At a mere distance of 67km from Mandi lies a paradise by the name of Janjheli. Beautiful is an understatement of sorts while one is describing the breathtaking vistas of this hilly pocket in the District Mandi of Himachal Pradesh, India. This comes as no surprise that Britishers were so taken with the lush green meadows of the place that they were bent upon making Janjheli as the summer capital instead of Shimla. But for the adamant ruler of Janjheli, their dreams couldn’t be materialized. Situated at a height of 2150 metres in Thunag tehsil, Mandi district, Janjehli can be approached via Karsog too.

Nestled in the Himalayan lap, Janjheli is a home to the lofty pines and deodars that seem to be exchanging vows with the sky. The music of the flowing pristine waters coupled with the echoing of the tall trees strikes a chord with one’s heart.

Around Janjheli

Shikari Devi Temple

Tranquility for trekkers at a height of 3,332 metres above sea level. Captivating sunrise and sunset from the temple is soul stirring. You can reach the place from Karsog via Bakrot ( Chindi ) or via Gohar ( Budhakedar ).

Shaily Peak

A natural peak with greenery everywhere and breezy environment, Shaily peak is one of the natural peaks in Naldehra. One can go straight to Shailey peak if feeling adventurous and enthusiastic for some trekking. The road to Shaily peak is memorable, the scenery around Khatnol is experiencing, and one can start climbing from this place, through steep trekking.

Chidi

This little hamlet in an apple growing area is blessed with breathtaking beauty. There are numerous small temples of considerable antiquity not too far away. Chindi, easily approachable via Tatta Pani from Shimla. It is 107 km. from Mandi.

Quick Facts

State: Himachal Pradesh
Distt: Mandi
Destination: Janjheli
Climate: In winter, the temperature can however around freezing point when heavy woollen clothes are required. During summer, the climate is hot and cottons are recommended.
Altitude: Janjheli is situated at an altitude of 2150 mtrs.
Best time to visit: All the year round.

How to get there

Air: The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti 75 km..
Rail: Shimla is nearest railway staion of the narrow gauge rail track from Shimla to Kalka.
Road: Janjheli is 67 km from Mandi.Taxis and buses to Janjheli are available at all major stations.

Whom to Contact

Telephone: +91-177- 2860601, 2860630, 2661073, 2002155
Fax: +91-177-2860602
For hotel bookings: booking@himachalhotels.in
For any information or query: info@himachalhotels.in
For marketing enquiries: marketing@himachalhotels.in

Overlooking Kaza from a height of about 13,500 ft, the Kye monastery is the largest in the valley and holds a powerful sway over the most populous part of the valley around Kaza. The gompa is an irregular heap of low rooms and narrow corridors on a monolithic conical hill. From a distance is resembles the Thiksey monastery near Leh in Ladakh. The irregular prayer chambers are interconnected by dark passages, tortuous staircases and small doors.

Hundreds of lamas receive their religious training in the monastery. It is also known for its beautiful murals, thankas, rare manuscripts, stucco images and peculiar wind instruments that form part of the orchestra whenever Chham is enacted in the gompa in summer. Another interesting aspect of the gompa is its collection of weapons which may have been used to ward off marauders as also to maintain its control over people betraying a church-militant character.

Thousands of devotees from all over the world here attended the Kalachakra ceremony which was performed in August, 2000 by His Holiness Dalai Lama.Kalachakra initiation (Skt. Abhisheka, Tibetan Wang) is not just an elaborate puja or a religious congregation. It is a workshop in a grand scale to make an earnest effort by both the teacher and disciples to awaken their Buddha nature by the combined forces of teaching, prayer, blessing, devotion, mantra, yoga and meditation. It is an effort by every participant to try to discover the true and permanent peace for the sake of all others. The Buddhists believe mere presence during this elaborate initiation ceremony stretching over a few days, liberates the participant from suffering and bestows on him the bliss of Enlightenment.

The ceremony focuses on five main subjects – cosmology, psycho-physiology, initiation, sadhana and Buddhahood. A Kalachakra mandala and Viswatma deitiy in union with his consort are at the centre of this ceremony guiding the disciple through the tedious process of initiation.

The gompa is approached by road from Kaza (only 12 km). However, it is only 8.5 kms trek from Kaza.

Dhankar Gompa (also spelled as Dhangkar Gompa) is a Gompa, a Buddhist temple in the district of Lahul and Spiti in India. It is situated at an elevation of 12,774 feet in the Spiti Valley between the towns of Kaza and Tabo. The complex is built on a 1000-foot (300-metre) high spur overlooking the confluence of the Spiti and Pin Rivers – one of the world’s most spectacular settings for a gompa. Dhang or dang means cliff, and kar or khar means fort. Hence Dhangkar means fort on a cliff.

On the left bank of the Spiti river at a distance of 32 kms downstream from Kaza, near Shichling at an altitude of 3870 m, nestles the citadel of Dhankar, the official capital of Spiti. The citadel is built on a spur which projects into the main valley and ends in a precipice. The location of this fort is strategic as Spiti always had to suffer innumerable aggressions by its neighbors. The location allowed the Spitian to keep vigil on the approaches and to submit messages to surrounding inhabitations in case of danger. Whenever the Spitians were attacked, they built huge fires to signal meeting in the safe sanctuary of rocks, i.e., Dhankars. In the meeting all men and women decided the course of action to be taken against the aggressors.

According to the State Gazetteer, “(The fort) became notorious for housing a cavernous dungeon which the Nono used as prison. It contained a cell without doors having only a small opening at the top through which the condemned person was lowered and received his meals.”
The fort of Dhankar now lies in ruins, but still is a place worthy of visit. From the remnants of the fort one can see vast expanses of the Spiti valley.

Dhankar is also of art historical importance. Founded between 7th and the 9th centuries, Dhankar’s oldtemple complex occupies the southern part of the steep mountain slope of the village. It is known by the name of Lha-O-pa Gompa (monastery of the followers of Lha-O).

The monastery consists of a number of multi-storeyed buildings perched together, giving a fortress like impression. There are five different halls including Kanjur, Lhakhang, and Dukhang where a life size silver statue of Vajradhara, the Diamond Being, is placed in a glass altar embellished with scarves and flowers.

Most interesting at the Lha-O-pa gompa is the small chapel on the uppermost peak above the main monastery – Lhakhang Gongma. The building is decorated with depictions of Shakyamuni, Tsongkhapa and Lama Chodrag on the central wall Dhankar’s main attraction, although least publicised, is a fresh water lake about 2.5 km from the village at a height of 13500 ft. Set amidst lush green pastures, the lake offers a perfect idyllic camping site. Some boating facilities are proposed to be introduced in the near future. Under the Desert Development Project of Spiti the common carp variety of fish has been introduced in this lake. No angling is, however, allowed in the lake.

Dhankar is approachable by a motorable road, good for small vehicles only, that branches off for Dhankar from the main Kaza – Samdu road at a point around 24 kms from Kaza. The branch road is 8 kms in length upto Dhankar.

Little Monks at play- Dhankar Monastery

There is no rest house in the village. If you plan to halt for night, do carry tents, sleeping bags and other provisions.

ARKI, a tiny town in Solan district, can well be described as neat, clean and tranquil. If its unapproachable caves and cave-temples inspire awe and its floral bounty makes one ecstatic, its palace commands attention for the sheer beauty of its simple architecture. It has been a witness to history. Arki was once the capital of Baghal kingdom and the town itself suggests that it has been well looked after by its various rulers. Approachable by road from both Solan and Shimla, Arki-nestles in the lap of the middle-ranges of the Himalayas. The rocky mountains, with deep valleys and scanty vegetation, that surround it, can be a mystery for geologists. Caves abound in the area and so do cave-temples. Looking up at the inhospitable crags, one wonders how man and material reached the top for the construction work.

One of the famous temples is the Lutru Mahadev, situated high up on the mountain. Devotees, not only from Himachal Pradesh but also from Punjab and Haryana, frequent it. The climb is steep, but spiritual fervour makes you unmindful of the difficult terrain. Lutru Mahadev cave can be spotted from various angles as you travel in and around the town. Interestingly, a Durga temple midway between Batal Ghati and Arki, on the Kunihar-Solan road, is so situated that it is almost parallel to the Lutru temple. Nearby is Gangeshwar Mahadev temple which has a water spring. It is a perennial sources of water for Arki. The town is indeed lucky to have round-the-clock water supply, when most of the towns in the state are facing water scarcity.

If Lutru Mahadev has chosen to stay at that unapproachable height, Mutru Mahadev loves his cool, shaded cave in a thickly wooded valley just across the bazaar. The cave is small and has water constantly dripping in it. The rock-formations inside present the replica of the legendary abode of Shiva at Kailash. The place is serene and a walk downhill is worth the labour of climbing uphill. In the town one comes across several old temples, some are in a dilapidated condition, while a few are well maintained. On the hilltops around Arki there are still more temples dedicated to Goddess Durga and local devtas.

Kunihar

Kunihar is the Development block headquater of Kunihar Block. A beautiful place to live and watch.

Kuthar Fort

Its oldest sections are 800 years old while the most recent structures are barely eight decades old. This is spread over a large area and fresh-water springs flow within its confines.

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