India, a world full of paradoxes, conjures up a trillion images in the minds of those who have been fortunate enough to experience it, or not. Luckily, I belong to the first category. A trip to Himachal Pradesh made me realize just how lucky an Indian is. This lovely state, meaning "The Land of the Snowy Mountains," presents a fantastic opportunity for travelers all and sundry. Backpacking, family fun, and solo sagas - the state caters to all simply because it's home to stunningly versatile landscapes. Here's a dekko at the noteworthy tourist attractions.
Khajjiar: District Chamba
Located about 25 kilometers away from Dalhousie, a town steeped in colonial charm, Khajjiar is offically known as "Mini Switzerland" and combines the beauty of rolling meadows, dense deodar forests, and a lovely lake at 6500 feet above sea level. The drive to Khajjiar is equally fascinating and the Dhauladhar Range or the Lesser Himalayas that originate in Dalhousie greet you all the way. If you're lucky you'll have enough snow en route to make a snow man, a snow angel, and whatever else you fancy. The sprawling Dalhousie Public School, also a part of the scenic journey, makes you wonder whether the children are ever able to stay indoors!
Located about 30 kilometers away from the quaint town of Palampur, Bir-Billing is one of the best sites in the world for paragliding. Bir, the landing site, is a spectacular and clean village that's home to beautiful Tibetan monasteries. Billing, the take-off site, is about 14 kilometers away and is as close to heaven as it gets. Once you're in flight, you'll feel you have the divine power to hop, skip, and jump across snow capped peaks, this has got to be the most exhilarating experience ever. Warning: please note that it gets extremely cold while paragliding; to ensure maximum comfort wrap yourself in thermals, woolens, gloves, monkey caps, and whatever else need be. Palampur is renowned for its tea, Kangra famous for its paintings, and the Baijnath Temple constructed by local merchants in 1204 A.D. is worth a visit. Beware of the monkeys.
Solang Valley: District Kullu
Located about 15 kilometers away from Manali, this fascinating valley is en route to the Rohtang Pass and is a great spot for those looking for family fun or romantic getaways. The place boasts of a fantastic ropeway, and is one of the premier destinations in the world for skiing. The adventurous lot can also take a shot at zorbing, yak-rides, tyre-rides, and snowmobile-rides. Manali is a tourist hotspot and a picnic lunch by the River Beas in Van Vihar, a protected forest worth billions is a great way to spend the day.
A dozen more places in Himachal Pradesh can dazzle your senses. These include the hot springs of Manikaran in district Kullu and the world's highest cricket ground in Chai, about 50 kilometers away from Simla. The state has a wonderful way of rejuvenating your senses, no matter what you choose to do. Here's to haunting Himachal.
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