Himachal Pradesh

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

Mandi is the central district of Himachal Pradesh, India. There is also a town called Mandi, which has a distinguished history and interesting architecture. Here are main Places of Manndi to visit :-

Joginder Nagar

Joginder Nagar is the last stop of the little toy train, that runs from Pathankot on a narrow gauge line. It is also accessible by road from both Palampur and Mandi. In 1925, the enterprising Raja Joginder Sen of Mandi created an elaborate hydel power scheme near the village of Sukrahatti – which was then renamed Joginder Nagar after him. After tunneling and piping the water over several kilometers from the river Uhl to Joginder Nagar, the power house at Shanan was built by a team of engineers. Joginder Nagar’s attractions include the Macchiyal Lake, the Bassi Power House, Gumma and the haulage trolley.

Jhantigri

Jhantigri is about 12 km from Joginder Nagar. This enchanting spot on the top of the hill is surrounded by a thick forest of deodar trees. The remains of the summer palace of the former rulers of Mandi are located here. The spot unfolds breathtaking visats of the valleys below.

Barot

Just 40 km by road from Joginder Nagar and 12 km by haulage trolley, Barot packs an enormous range of outdoor activities. The reservoir of the Joginder Nagar Hydel Power Project is located here. A trout breeding centre, makes it a wonderful place for angling. Across the river Uhl is the Nargu wildlife Sanctuary – home to the ghoral, Himalyan black bear and a variety of pheasants. A trek route through thick forests links Barot to Kullu.
Shikari Devi
The trek to Shikari Devi from Janjheli and Karsog is possible. Through woods of assorted trees and shrubs – which include several medicinal herbs – two separate trek routes lead up to this ancient shrine which crowns the top of a hill. One approach is from Janjehli and the other from Karsog. Hunters in the area once prayed to the Goddess for success in their hunt – and here, perhaps, lies the origin of the name ‘Shikari Devi’. The Goddess is worshipped in the form of a stone image. Interestingly, the temple which is said to have been in existence since the time of the Pandavas, has no roof – for local legend has it, that all attempts to build one have been unsuccessful.

Tattapani

On the bank of the river Sutlej, Tattapani is approachable from Mandi via Karsog. It is also approachable via Shimla. Resting deep in a scenic valley and surrounded by high hills, Tattapani is famous for its hot sulpher springs- noted for their therapeutic powers.

Prashar Lake

An interesting 14 km. trek is possible along a steep track from Kataula, which is easily accessible from Mandi. The beautiful Prashar Lake is located high in the mountains, 40 km north of Mandi. It is here that sage Prashar is said to have meditated. On the lake’s edge is a three-storeyed pagoda-like temple dedicated to the sage. Capped with a roof of slate tiles, the temple has a wealth of wood carving. It is said to have been built by Raja Ban Sen of Mandi in the 14th centuary. An entire panorama of snowy mountain ranges is visible from this location.

Prashar Lake - Mandi

Prashar Lake is a high-altitude lake located in the Mandi district of India, about 2,730 metres above sea level and 42 km from the main Mandi town. It is held as sacred to the sage Prashar. Near the lake is a three-tiered pagoda-like temple dedicated to Prashar.

Prashar lake is located in Mandi district at a height of 2730 mtrs, and held sacred to Sage Prashar. A three tiered pagoda – like temple is located by the lake which alongwith the lake is an amazing site. Prashar Lake is located at a distance of 40 km from Mandi town in Himachal Pradesh through the tiny hamlets,deep dense forests The sage Prashar is believed to have meditated at the bank of this lake and the lake houses three-tiered Pagoda like temple dedicated to sage Prashar. Prashar Lake is also a symbol of natural beauty which is overlooked by snow-draped peaks of the Rohtang,Lahaul Spiti valley and is situated on the highest place of Mandi district.Last 10 kms of the road are very tough through a dense forest sanctuary having animals like leopards, himalayan bears.It is a site for annual fair held in june when the place is thronged by villagers paying visit to this religious place.

HOW TO REACH:-

Delhi-Chandigarh-Ropar-Bilaspur-Mandi- prashar lake (40 kms).The lake is well connected by all season motorable road.

Parashar Lake in Winter

Jogindarnagar or Jogindar Nagar is a town and a nagar panchayat in Mandi district in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Named after Raja Joginder Sen this is terminal point of 163 km long Kangra Valley Narrow gauge railhead.

Jogindarnagar is a small settlement in the Mandi district of the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. This place was previously called the Sukrahatti village which was an ideal excursion and trekking site. Later the village was renamed after Raja Joginder Sen of Mandi when he constructed a hydel power scheme here. Jogindarnagar is in the north of Shimla at a distance of 200 km. The nearest access points are the airport at Kangra and the Jogindar Nagar Railway Station, which is a terminus point of the rail line from Pathankot. The NH 20 passes through Jogindarnagar, which connects the town with other important towns of Kangra, Pathankot and Mandi. Geographically, the town is located between 31.98° North latitude and 76.77° East longitude at a height of 1220 metres (4000 feet) above mean sea level.

In 1932 the first hydroelectric project was constructed in Jogindarnagar. It is the only city in Asia which has three power houses, Shanan Power House (110M W) Bassi Power House (60 M W)and the Uhl Stage III (100 MW). Some of the highest peaks in Jogindarnagar are Biling peak (9510 feet) Winch peak (8820 feet), Jhatingari (6725 feet) Siqander Dhar (6010 feet) Banderi (5225 feet).

According to the Indian census report which came out in 2001 staes that Jogindarnagar had a small population of 5046. Males constitute 53% of the population and females account for 47% of the population. In Jogindarnagar, 10% of the population is less than six years of age. Jogindarnagar has an average literacy rate of 79% which is higher than the national average literacy rate 59.5%. To be specific, the male literacy rate is 84% and the female literacy rate is 74%.

Degree College Joginder Nagar

Situated on the lap of the Himalayas, Jogindarnagar is an ideal tourist destination. Places of prime attractions in the vicinity include the Baba Balakrupi Temple,Machcciyal Lake at a distance of 6 km. Bassi powerhouse, Banar Baba Temple, Brajeshwari Temple, Baijnath Temple, Chaturbhuja Temple and the Lakshminarayana Temple. Bir, Billing, Jhatingri, Barot and Chauntra are beautiful towns surrounding Jogindarnagar.

Access

• Distance from Mandi:- 56 km.
• Distance from Chandigarh:- 259 km.
• Distance from Shimla:- 210 km.
• Distance from Pathankot:- 163 km.
• Distance from nearest broad gauge train:- 163 km. (Pathankot)
• Distance from nearest airport:- 60 km. (Kangra Airport)

Sundernagar twon is located in Mandi District and is around 22 km south-west of Mandi. It is also spelt as Sundarnagar and Sunder nagar. The town is famous for its temples with the Mahamaya Temple being the prominent among them. Perched at an altitude of 1,174 meters, Sundernagar is noted for its shady walks amid towering trees. Sukhdev Vatika is a beautiful garden here. It is also home to Asia’s biggest Hydel Project – the Beas-Stulej hydro-electric project.

Mahamaya Temple is situated on top of a hill, Mahamaya Temple is at Sundernagar in Mandi District, Himachal Pradesh. It is dedicated to the Mother Goddess. The temple is visited by thousands of devotees every year.

Around Sundernagar

Shukdev Vatika

It is situated near to BBMB reserviour on NH 21. During Pre-Mahabharata period Rishi Shukdev meditated at this place. There is an ancient cave dating back to Puranas. This cave leads to Haridwar and it is believed that Rishi Shukdev used this cave to take bath in holy Ganges every morning.

Haateswari Temple

This temple is situated on Sundernagar ? Baggi Road at a distance of about eight kms from Sundernagar.History of Pandavas can also be traced to this famous temple. Devi Haateswari, the presiding deity of the area has a huge following.

BBMB Lake

Sunderngar owes a lot to BBMB, it was BSL Project which brought Sundernagr to its present glory. This project diverts the water of riverBeas at Pandoh and brings it through a canal to Sundernagar where it is stored in a manmade lake before being used to generate power at Dehar Power House.

Quick Facts

State: Himachal Pradesh
Distt: Mandi
Destination: Sundernagar
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: Sundernagar is situated at an altitude of 1,174mtrs.
Best time to visit: All the year round.

How to get there

Air

The nearest airport is Bhuntar about 57-km from Mandi.

Rail

The broad gauge railhead is at Pathankot, a distance of 210-km. From Pathankot the narrow gauge railway connects Joginder Nagar, which is 80-km from Sundernagar.

Road

25 kms from Mandi is well connected by road to other places. The main bus stand is just above an open playing field, where the National Highway- 21 continues along the left bank of river to Pandoh.

Mandi, located at the junction of the Kullu and Kangra valleys at around 750m, is a nice place to stop on the way to the Kullu Valley. There are around 80 temples and an old palace in Mandi. It has good accommodation.

The Siva-ratri Festival held here in Feb/March is interesting. Deities from the surrounding area are taken on a procession on carts and palanquins. During the week of the festival there are music and dance performances.

Orientation and Information

The main shopping area in Mandi is Indira Market Square. There are several hotels and places to eat in or near the square. The bus station is located across the river in the newer east side of the town. It is about a 15-minute walk from the square.

The Bank of Baroda does cash advance on MasterCard and Visa cards. Evening Plaza Hotel, main square, changes money.

Tarna Hill and Temples

On top of Tarna Hill is Rani Amrit Kaur Park, which was opened by the Dalai Lama in 1957. There are some great views from on top of the hill and it is a nice place to spend some time. There are some 15th to 17th centuries Nagari-style temples on the hill including the 17th century Syama Kali Temple in the park.

The Triloknath Siva Temple (1520) is built in the Nagari style.

Where to Stay

There are a group of cheap hotels on the road just across the bridge from the bus station.

Sangam Hotel (22009) has rooms for Rs 90/125.
Hotel Standard (22948), at the Town Square, has a terrace garden and rooms with bath for Rs 125.
Vyas Guest House (23409), near the bus station, has clean rooms for Rs 135/175.
Vipasha Guest House (25116), near the bus station, has rooms for Rs 125/160. It is a good value.
HPTDC Hotel Mandav (35505), just behind the bus station, has clean rooms in the older building for Rs 350 and rooms in the newer building are overpriced at Rs 1000. There are good views from this place.
Hotel Shiva (24211), in the Town Square, has rooms with hot water and TV for Rs 175 to Rs 300. It is a good value.
Raj Mahal (22401), next to the Court House, has comfortable rooms for Rs 125/200 to Rs 350/400. It has a big garden and a good restaurant. It is a good place.
Evening Palace (3318), Gandhi Chowk area, has rooms for Rs 450.
Munish Resorts (22330), 3km from the bus stand, is a friendly, family-run place that has mid-range clean rooms with bath. It has a nice garden and good views.
Hotel Mayfair (22570), near the square, has modern rooms with a TV, bath and hot water for Rs 500 to Rs 750.

Where to Eat

• Hotel Mandav has a good menu and breakfasts.
• Hotel Standard, near the square, has good reasonably priced food
• Copacabana Bar & Restaurant, in the Raj Mahal Hotel, is a popular outdoor place with good food.
• Hotel Mayfair, Indira Market Square, is fairly good and has some good views.

Travel

You can make advance bookings for some buses at the bus station on the east side of the town. There are buses to Manali, Kullu, Bhuntar, Shimla and Dharamsala.
Taxis hang out at the bus stand and on the east side of Indira Market Square. A taxi to Kullu is around Rs 650.

Pop: 27,000
Phone Code: 01905