Kulu
Kullu (1220m) was once known as Kulanthapitha – the end of the habitable world. Beyond rose the forbidding heights of the Greater Himalaya, and by the banks of the shining river Beas lay the fabled Silver Valley. Kullu got its first motorable access only after independence. The long centuries of seclusion have however allowed the area to retain a considerable measures of its traditional charm.
Manali
Manali, at the northern end of the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh, is a hill station situated at a height of
2050 m (6398 ft) in the Himalayas. Situated on the Beas river (and near its source), it is a popular tourist spot
for Indians in summer and a magical, snow-covered place in winter. A staging point for a number of treks
(Beas Kund, Chandrakhani Pass) and sports such as white-water rafting, Manali is also on the road to
Ladakh via the valley of Lahaul and Spiti.
Manikaran
At 1737 m, on the right bank of river Parvati. This place is famous for hot sulphur springs revered by both Hindus and Sikhs pilgrims. The water of the spring is also said to have curative value which cures many skin diseases. According to an ancient saying Manikaran is also connected with Lord Shiva and His divine concert Parvati.
Rohtang Pass
Rohtang pass (3979 m) is 51 kms. from Manali on highway to Keylong/Leh. It offers a panorama and spectacular mountain view. The pass is open from June to October each year although trekkers can cross it earlier.
It is a gateway to Lahaul Spiti, Pangi and Leh valley just as Zojila pass is a gatway to Ladakh. There are a beautiful sight of glaciers, peaks and Chandra river flows down in the Lahaul valley.
Shimla
The British empire may have ceased to exit, but its echo lingers on in Shimla (2205m). The Summer Capital of the British in India, Shimla was the country’s focus for the better part of every year and now, is the state capital of Himachal Pradesh. Today, it has well developed facilities, easy accessibility and numerous attractions making it one of India’s most popular hill resort. Situated in the lower ranges of the Himalayan mountains, it is surrounded by pine deodar, oak and rhododendron forests. Towards the north lie the snow-covered high-ranges, while the valleys breathe whispering streams and swaying fields. Within the town are host of splendid colonial edifices, quaint cottages and charming walks. Shimla offers a variety of shopping, sport and entertainment activities.
Kufri
An enjoyable drive through forests and small villages from Shimla leads to this small but popular station. The Nature Park here at Chini Bunglow is a great attraction.
When Bhupinder Singh, Maharaja of Patiala was expelled from Shimla – The Summer Capital of the British India, he decided to create his own capital for the warm months. It lay surrounded by magnificent deodar forests, Shimla was in direct vision and most importantly, Chail at 2226 m was somewhat higher than British controlled Shimla.
