Nov 13, 2010

Renuka Lake, Sirmour , Himachal Pradesh



Renuka lake lies in Sirmour district. It is 45 kms. from Nahan. With a circumference of 3214 m, Renukaji is the largest natural lake in Himachal. Shaped like the profile of a reclining woman, this is regarded as the embodiment of the goddess Renuka. Near the lake's feet is another lake held sacred to her son, Parshurama. Both have temples built around them and the main temple to Renuka is regarded to have been built overnight in eighteen century. The lake lies in a long valley and surrounding slopes are covered with thick woods. Boating facility is available at the lake.

Nov 12, 2010

Mandi, Himachal Pradesh


This small town is a miniature version of Benaras.The people of Mandi proudly boast that while Kashi (Benaras) has only 80 temples, Mandi has 81! J.C. French supported their assertion when he described the town asa miniature Benaras with innumerable temples, old houses, long flights

of steps, the streets steep and winding and the market place with an aura of medieval picturesqueness

Mandi Indira market, Himachal pradesh.

Sep 29, 2010

Shikari Devi Temple, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh


Placed at a sublime height of 3359m above sea level, Shikari Devi temple is 18km from Chindi (a tiny hamlet on the ridge of the Karsog Valley in the Himalayas, admired for its splendid view of the pine and deodar woods and apple orchards) in Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh. The

temple is an antique, roofless shrine, situated at the apex of a hill in Shikari Devi. Encircled by dense woods, the temple commands brilliant views of the snow-topped mountains and wooded hills all round. The Shikari Devi temple is devoted to Shikari Devi, the goddess revered in the form of a stone idol. Legend speaks that the temple has been in existence since the period of the Pandavas. Kamru Nag Temple, Rohanda, Barot, Karsog, Chindi, Shikari Devi Sanctuary, Mamaleshwar Temple and Sundernagar are the popular tourist attractions in the vicinity. The temple encompasses a Forest Rest House and also a Serai (inn), where worshippers can stay overnight. Shikari Devi temple is a perfect base for trekking. The temple can be approached from Janjehli and Karsog. Joginder Nagar Railway Station is the closest railhead.

Inner view of Mata Shikari Devi Temple
A beautiful Sceneries on the way to Mata Shikari Devi Temple.

Tour to Mandi,One of The District of Himachal Pradesh


One of the most fascinating cities in Himachal Pradesh, Mandi lies along the banks of River Beas. Often called the Varanasi of the Hills, Mandi is famous for its 81 ancient stone temples that are marked by exquisite carvings. Remnants of old palaces and notable instances of colonial architecture can be found in Mandi. You can witness various colorful fairs and festivals that are celebrated here round the year. Come on a tour to Mandi, and you will have an unforgettable experience exploring this historic town.

Aug 19, 2010

Food of Himachal Pradesh

There are not many specific varieties that one can get in Himachal Pradesh. A long-time relationship with Punjab and large-scale migration of Tibetans ensured the impact of the Tibetan and Punjabi cuisine on Himachal. Some of the unique Himachali cuisines include Nasasta (a sweetmeat) in the Kangra region; Indra (made of Urad dal), Baadi / Ghaunda, and Bada/Poldu in the Shimla region; apart from favorites all over the state like Pateer, Chouck, Bhagjery and chutneys of Til. Non-vegetarian food is quite popular too in Himachal Pradesh.

Rivers of Himachal Pradesh

The major river systems of the region are the Chenab, the Ravi, the Beas, the Sutlej and the Yamuna. These perennial rivers are fed by snow and rainfall and are protected by a fairly extensive cover of natural vegetation.