A small town feel and easy pace of life makes Matiana an ideal base for travellers who wish to relax and explore the region away from the tourist crowds. Matiana has a number of things to offer for those who like to walk around and soak in the atmosphere.

Here are our favourite things to do in Matiana.

1. Birdwatching

This small town of Himachal gives a vast opportunity for birding enthusiasts to see plenty of different species. The varieties are distinctly different from that of other parts of India. Birds like Drongo, fly catcher, bar tailed tree creeper, black bulbul and Grosbeak can be spotted here.

2. Walking Trails

The hills are a perfect place to explore and there are plenty of local trails to follow. Small village settlements, old-towering trees and local life are found along some of the most beautiful trails here. A good way to see the destination and get acquainted to the local culture, this is highly recommended.

3. Explore the Apple Farms

You can’t escape the importance of the apple farms in the region. Most people here have small or big farms and the conversations invariable leads to the season’s production and other issues. Visit an apple orchard and enjoy the freshness of apples right off the tree. While most of the harvest is sent to local or larger distributors, many people have diversified into small units of chutneys (Indian condiment) and juices. Perfect souvenirs to take home!

4. Hatu Peak

A little over 15 kms from Matiana, the Hatu peak towers over the Narkhanda town. It takes about an hour from the town to drive up to this serene spot with oak stands and bright green pastures in the middle. From here, you can get a good look at the Himalayas on a clear day. Try not to visit on a weekend – the number of visiting cars and bikes often end up in a jam.

5. Local Temples

Matiana has always been associated with its devotion to the Goddess Durga. Apart from her, the destination is also sprinkled with other smaller temples. You will find temples tucked away in nooks and crannies, below trees, by the road and some elaborate ones. The religious zeal in the people is commendable here.

Where to stay
Constructed on the edge of a hill facing a panoramic valley with far-off mountains views is Krish Rauni Resort. Situated in the upper reaches of Himachal Pradesh, this homestay in Matiana is at a height of about 8,000 feet from the sea level. The orchard around the house has benches painted in bright red, yellow and green where you can relax with a book, or spend time on the huge terrace which gives a wide view of the valley around.

Related articles and links
Matiana destination guide
Matiana homestay collection
National Parks of India – The Great Himalayan National Park

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1. Things to do in Solan: 9 things that make it the little, big adventure.
2. Top 10 Manali Things To Do – Himachal Hill Station Tips
3. Things to do in Hoshiarpur

Here are some of the things that make the summer, and July, the perfect time to visit Manali.

Adventure Activities

The weather is perfect for trying out some of the many adventure activities in and around Manali. An adventure sports centre offers various trekking and rafting opportunities near the Beas River where trained experts provide advice and act as guides. Some people also plan longer treks starting from Manali. Treks like Solang, Kinner, Kullu, Chandartal and Chandrakhani are very popular.

The region also becomes conducive to cycling and many expeditions leave at this time towards Spiti or Leh. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for a cycling enthusiast. Travellers come from all over the world to traverse the high passes towards Leh and beyond.

Other fun adventure activities are also organised in July. Rappling, Zorbing and paragliding are becoming quite popular with children. Run by professionals, these activities are not intensive and perfect for a short holiday.

Roads to Leh and Spiti

Even though the passes open up in mid June, it’s not until July that the weather really improves enough for reliable travel along these routes. With word passing through the travel community about it’s spectacular natural beauty and interesting culture, Leh is the most popular destination to visit from Manali. Plenty of vehicles leave Manali in July to traverse the high passes of Chang La, More plains, Tanglang La and other fantastic topography.

Regular trips also leave for Spiti to arrive in the monastery towns of Kaza, Nako and Tabo.

Rohtang Pass

While the weather in Manali is bright and sunny, Rohtang pass (about 1.5 hours drive from Manali) still has snow. Various tea stalls, restaurants and small knick-knacks shops line the area.

Since it’s a relatively short drive away it’s a popular destination for a day or even half-day trip. Yak rides and all terrain vehicles are seen all around.

Old Manali

With no thunderous showers over your head, it’s a good time to hit Old Manali street to pick up kitsch products, bright hippie clothes or just sit around and experience the Bohemian life. Old Manali is also famous for its orchards and old guest-houses. A ruined fort and the Manu Maharishi Temple, dedicated to sage Manu offer a couple of interesting sightseeing opportunities.

Other articles and links of interest
Top 10 Manali Things To Do
Manali Destination guide
Manali homestay collection
National Parks of India – The Great Himalayan National Park

Related posts:

1. Top 10 Manali Things To Do – Himachal Hill Station Tips
2. Photo of the month competition: July 2010
3. Photo of the month competition: July 2011

Here are our top choices for sightseeing in Dharamsala, with opening times and entry fee guide.

1. Kangra Art Museum
The museum displays the local arts and crafts of the region. Some of the artefacts date back to 5th century. In addition to the museum, there is a gallery which displays the famous miniature paintings of Kangra and a collection of sculptures, pottery, and anthropological items.
Opening Times: 10.00 am to 1:30 pm and 2.00 to 5.00 pm (Tuesday to Sunday)
Entry Fee: Rs 10/- Indians and Rs 50/- Foreign Nationals.

2. War Memorial
Built right at the entrance to the town, the War Memorial commemorates the post independence war heroes of the state. It is set in the backdrop of lush pine trees and neatly manicured lawns.
Opening Times: 7.00 a.m to 8.00 pm (All Days)
Entry Fee: Rs 5/-

3. McLeod Ganj

McLeod Ganj lies on the upper part of Dharamsala, and also houses Dalai Lama’s abode. A number of monasteries, Tibetan homes and shops have earned this place a sobriquet of ‘Little Lhasa of India’. You can find several handicraft shops and cafes here to spend your time in.
View a map of McLeod Ganj with places to see, eat and drink marked.

4. Church of St. John In The Wilderness

More a memorial for British Viceroy, Lord Elgin who died at Dharamsala in 1863 than a Church, this beautiful stone building is a constant reminder of the British occupation of India. The Anglican Church is located in the midst of Deodar trees between the Mcleodganj and Forsyth Ganj, only 8 kms from Dharamsala town. Taxis are easily available to get here.
Opening Times: 10.00 a.m to 5.00 pm (All Days)
Entry Fee: Nil

5. Namgyal Monastery
This is one of most famous landmarks of the upper part of town in Dharamsala. The monastery was built in 1575 and houses more than 180 monks. Apart from the humble living quarters for monks, the monastery also has a Tibetan museum, a cafeteria, a book shop, library, prayer wheels and Buddhist shrines. This is the private monastery of Dalai Lama and you cannot go inside the temple area. The Naam Art Gallery is open for the public.
Opening Times: 10.00 a.m to 7.00 pm (All Days except Monday)
Entry Fee: Nil

6. Bhagsu Falls

Arriving during the monsoons will give you a great view of the copious amount of water in the Bhagsu Falls. Located just 2 kms from McLeod Ganj, this is a great picnic spot.
Opening Times: 7.00 a.m to 9.00 pm

7. Library of Tibetan Works and Archives

The library was founded by His Holiness Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama in 1970 and contains sources which were relocated from Tibet during the 1959 escape, including Tibetan Buddhist manuscripts and archives related the Tibets history, politics, culture and art. It houses over 80,000 manuscripts, books and documents and over 600 thangkas, statues and other artefacts of Buddhist heritage. Visit their website.
Opening Times: Library hours are from 9am till 5pm, closing for lunch between 1pm and 2pm. The library is open daily, apart from on Sundays and the second and fourth Saturdays of each month

Some of the other sightseeing in Dharamsala options are Hanumaan Ka Tibba, Dal Lake, Triund, Narghota and Chamunda Devi. If you have enough time these are all worth exploring as well.

For all of the above, it is recommended to check opening times and entry fees as these are subject to change.

Also see:
Things to do in Dharamsala – discover places and sights around Dharamsala
Dharamsala Homestay Collection – find a place to stay from 1950Rs / £28 GBP
Dharamsala Destination Guide – find out when you go, history and cuisine of the region

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1. Things to do in Dharamsala
2. Cricket Fever in Dharamsala
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The curvy roads passing through sylvan surroundings, majestic mountain ranges, dense pine forests, small villages nestled in the deep valleys offers panoramic views around Chamba making it any nature lover’s delight.

A view of chamba valley from Chamunda devi temple

For me however, the most fascinating things about Chamba were it’s beautiful temples, especially The Laxmi Narayan temple.

The Laxmi Narayan temple compound had six big temples and many other smaller shrines dedicated to various Gods. The main shrine is of Laxmi Narayan with others consecrated to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.

An over view of Laxmi Narayan temple compound

All six temples stand side by side on stony platform. The temples with their magnificent shikhara, intricate carvings and detailing are insignia of medieval architecture. The shikharas of temples are composed of miniatures of itself, all grouped in an orderly way. The outer walls are broken into many layers to give a circular impression with the shikhara culminating into a circular disc shaped structure at the top above which rests the dazzling kalash.

Carvings on outer walls of Laxmi Narayan temple

The temple dates back to 10th century A.D. Laxmi Narayan temple remains closed for about 2 hours in noon and when we arrived the shrine doors were still closed giving us time to walk around the compound and enjoy the beautiful carvings.

Carvings on outer walls of Laxmi Narayan temple

While waiting for the temple to open I sat facing the them, threw my head back and tried to fix my gaze on the finials of shikharas. The glorious blue sky glowed above and my heart filled with peace. It is said that in nagara style of temples there is a structure called gavaksh in the shikhara. This gavaksh is a closed window kind of structure which symbolically denotes open space from where the God pours his grace on the deity installed by man in the inner sanctum. At that particular moment I felt that several gavakshas have been opened in the sky itself and God was pouring his grace on me.

Quite near to this famous temple of Chamba is a comparatively lesser know temple of Harinarayan. This temple was built in 11th century a.d. Built in Shikhara style the temple is adorned with intricate carvings. Once this temple stood at the entrance of Chamba town. Though now midst the crowded market place, the temple still retains it’s architectural magnificence and spiritual appeal.

Chamunda devi temple

Chamunda devi temple in Chamba proved to be the best view point for us. We reached there at about 4 p.m.and the view of valley and river Ravi from the temple compound and stairs was spell binding. This temple is located on a comparatively higher point and is far away from the hustle bustle of market place and town. The compound has an ancient temple of nagar style dedicated to lord shiva and a wooden temple of pahadi style dedicated to devi chamunda. The distinct architecture of both styles has its own charm. The big peepal trees, the vermilion covered statues of various gods and goddess, the open compound and the reigning peace make it a perfect place to spend few hours.

A view of chamba valley from chamunda devi temple

There are other famous temple sites near Chamba such as Chaurasi temples of Bharmour, about 65 km from Chamba town.

The best time to visit the place from the point of view of enjoying the architectural magnificence is from September to November The rainy season being over and winters not yet fully arrived this is the best time to roam freely in the open compounds and premises of temples.

Nearest airports to Chamba are Amritsar and Jammu which are around 190 kms. Chamba is well connected by road from Delhi and Chandigarh. Delhi is 627 kms and Chandigarh is 357 kms from Chamba. Regular buses ,taxis and coaches ply from both the places. Pathankot in Punjab is the nearest railway station about 119km from Chamba.

About the guest bloggers: Namita Sunder worked as banking professional for 21 years and is presently enjoying her time reading,writing and travelling with a keen interest in Indian forms of art, architecture, folk tales/legends, culture and nature. Her husband Sunder Iyer is a journalist by profession and photographer by passion. He is a guest faculty at BHU and also takes photography classes at other institution as well as photography assignments. You can see a collection of his work here.

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The first time I travelled in India, in 2005-06, I arrived with a treasure trove of fantasies and ideas about India — and my expectations were high. I knew about the fairytale desert forts, the sacred pilgrimage sites, the monumental metropolises and, of course, the quaint hill stations, fabled relics of a bygone era.

Every hill station in India lays claim to being the “queen of hill stations” and I am sure they all have their charms. I haven’t been to all of them, just two in fact — Simla and Darjeeling — but they both won my allegiance.

I arrived in Simla after a month of volunteering in Dharamsala, and I was looking forward to a few days of aimless respite. I had been ill in Dharamsala, and was worried the long drive to Simla — along narrow winding roads with heart-stopping drop-offs — would wear me down.

But as soon as I arrived in the hill top town, I felt my spirits lift. I have discovered after almost 15 months of travel in India, spread over five trips, that places either strongly agreed with me — or the opposite. Simla agreed with me. It turned out to be the perfect place for a break from it all. I found the mountain air and panoramic views reviving, and I loved to just stroll along the ridge-top Mall discovering historical sites like the former Viceregal Lodge (now an educational institute) and Scandal Point.

After a day or two in Simla, my boyfriend joined me, and when together we walked along the Mall I was aware that at one time we would have caused a scandal indeed: a woman of British descent walking with an Indian man. In fact, it would have been illegal for him to walk on the Mall before independence. Times do change for the better.

When it came time to leave our beloved sojourn in Simla, we took the toy train down to Kalka, where we were meeting the train back to Delhi. We stopped and ate snacks along the way, counted the 103 tunnels, joked about walking alongside the train (and probably getting to our destination faster) and had a delightful time.

It was several years before I travelled to my second hill station. I was approaching a red-letter birthday — a biggie! — and I pondered deeply about where I wanted to spend it. But even though I pondered, I knew: Watching the sunrise against the backdrop of the white wall of the Himalayas from Tiger Hill, outside of Darjeeling.

I arrived the day before my birthday and it was love at first sight. I walked up to the top of Observatory Hill, to Mahakala Temple, sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists and then had tea at the historic Windamere Hotel, one of Asia’s top heritage hotels. The views of swirling mist around the mountain top; the sound of the temple’s hundreds of prayer flags flapping; the taste of the light, fragrant, tea — I loved it all.

The next morning, I bound out of bed before dawn to make the drive up to Tiger Hill for the sunrise — knowing that we may or may not have a clear day (the odds seem to be about 3-to-1 against). Luckily for me, and a good augur for the decade to come, the morning dawned perfectly clear. And though the viewing area was crowded and noisy, and I was tired and cold, watching the sunrise light up the white wall of the Himalayas in the distance — colouring the mountains gold, rose pink and deep mauve by turn — was worth the effort. It was one of the most spectacular travel moments of my life.

My guide Paras and I walked part way down Tiger Hill, stopping at a tiny, ancient Durga temple, built literally into the side of the hill, with earth and tree roots forming the interior. We arrived just in time for puja — just Paras, me and three female devotees — and I received a blessing. As we walked further down, we continued to see the five massive peaks of mighty Kanchendzonga, the world’s third highest mountain, looming above the valley like a giant ocean liner sailing on a sea of clouds.

Back at the Windamere for breakfast and more Darjeeling tea, I was served on the terrace with the panoramic view. And as I watched the dance of the breaking sun vying with the swirling mists, and heard the prayer flags from the temple above flapping in the breeze, I felt serenely, majestically happy.

Images are of Darjeeling and the Makaibari Tea Company. See more of Mariellen’s photographs from this trip.

About the guest blogger: Mariellen Ward is a Canadian freelance writer and travel blogger, well-known on the Internet for her love of “all things India.” Mariellen has traveled for more than a year altogether in India and publishes an India-inspired travel blog Breathedreamgo. She writes about India, meaningful adventure travel and yoga for newspapers, magazines and many online sites and recently published her first book, Song of India: Tales of Travel and Transformation.

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Within Himachal Pradesh, Palampur is one of the key destinations in the Kangra Valley region. Owing to the numerous streams that flow in the town, it was given the local name “pulum’, meaning abundant water. Enjoy the view of snow clad mountains from the famous Neugal Cafe.

Things to do in Palampur
Palampur makes for a great stopping point as there are a number of tourist specific things to see and do around it. The most important day tours are Darang, Dharamshala and Mcleodganj. Here are some of the other things to do in Palampur:

1. Bir and Beelling: Only 35 kms from Palampur, these villages are famous for Buddhist monasteries. It is also famous as an adventure destination for hand gliding and paragliding enthusiasts. The duo is also known for Tibetan handicrafts and its verdant topography.

2. Baijnath: A spiritual destination, Baijnath is 16 kms from the city and has a much revered Shiva shrine. It is said the Ravana himself has prayed to Shiva in this temple.

3. Andreta: A short drive from town, this is home to the well known artist, late Sardar Shobha Singh and late playwright Norah Richards. Dhauladhar Range presents itself in a beautiful panoramic view from here.

4. Bundla Stream: Again, a great spot for adventure lovers, this stream runs in a deep chasm of 100 metres and swells violently in the monsoon months. If one walks the 2 km distance between Palampur and Bundla, one can hear the stream continuously.

When to go
Palampur has pleasant weather all through the year except for winters when it is extremely cold. However, for those who like the crisp chill in the air, this one is a perfect destination for you.

How to get there
The closest airport to Palampur is Gaggal, which is 40 kms from the town. Flights are not that frequent to this airport and are also limited in connectivity from the number of places in India. The more convenient way to get here is by train to Pathankot and then travel 100 kms to Palampur. Delhi is well connected to Pathankot by train.

Where to stay
There are a number of homestay options in Palampur. The Darang Tea Estate is a stunning property spread in over 70 acres and is more than 150 years old. It was one of the first plantations to be planted by an Indian and every inch of it has a riveting story to tell. Rates start from Rs 1950 / £28 GBP.

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Though rooted in India, the Tibetan history and culture has a strong influence within Dharamsala. It is said that the Tibetan legacy goes as far as 8th century in this region and many activities are based around the Tibetan culture and religion. Here is our pick of the top ten things to do in Dharamsala.

1. Tsuglagkhang Complex
This is the largest Tibetan temple outside Tibet, with a colossal meditation hall with murals and thangkas to add to its charm. The Kalachakra temple inside is where Dalai Lama himself meditates and is located just in fronts of his residence. Look out for the Namgyal Cafe to have a quick bite after visiting the temple. This is run by the youth workers of the complex.

2. Thangka Paintings
Many locals make the original Thangka paintings inspired from the stories of Buddha. Visit a local artist and see how these paintings come to life under the skill of adept hands.

3. Tibet Museum
The Tibet museum might be small but contains vast and interesting history about Tibet and the exodus to India. An afternoon here will be wonderful.

4. Dharamkot
One of the most scenic spots off Dharamsala, this is a good place to take your picnic basket and enjoy the view. The Bhagsunag falls also make for a great picnic spot with family. A fresh water spring adds to the interest of the place.

5. Triund
A trek to the over 3000m peak beyond Dharamkot is something most trekkers traverse. You need to have decent stamina. Don’t forget t carry comfortable walking and climbing shoes for Dharamsala. There are plenty of trails for short or difficult hikes and are extremely inviting.

6. Bhagsu Waterfall
A rough gush of water in a remarkably beautiful setting, climb to the falls but be aware that the last part is quite dangerous.

7. Indrahar Pass
The Kangra Valley has some lofty mountains and passes which are a thrill to climb. Indrahar is one such pass.

8. Quaint Cafes and Shopping
With the number of foreign nationals coming to Dharamsala and making it their home, there was a whole hippie movement, which has its reminiscence in old quaint cafes and clothes even now. Mcleod Ganj is perfect for this.

9. Meet Dalai Lama
A difficult task but not unachievable – try and meet the great leader Dalai Lama. A spiritual experience for many, one needs to watch his website closely for his travel dates and lectures in the town. For a private audience, one needs to know someone in his office. Though your meeting may last only 10 seconds, it will be worth remembering.

10. Yoga and Dance
Yoga has caught the attention of the Western World like wildfire, try your hand at some classes held here. Another art form that might interest you is the alternative Butoh dance. Watch regular performances by The Subbody Butoh School.

Dharamsala provides that welcome break and pleasant relief from the city banter for someone on a tourist trip to India. Spend at least 15 days in the area to soak in the culture and easy pace of the destination.

Do you want to enjoy some these things to do in Dharamshala  get in touch with our reservations team who will be able to help you plan your trip. Check our our destination Dharamshala guide for more inspiration and check out our Dharamshala homestay collection.

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Latest on the list of hot-spots for wildlife, is the Great Himalayan National Park.

About The Great Humalayan National Park
Located in Kullu in Himachal Pradesh, the park is spread over an impressive 1171 sq km. It has about 375 fauna species and a wide array of mammals, birds, reptiles and insects, including snow leopards.

Cradled in the foothills of the Himalayas, the Great Himalayan National Park is replete with rivers, camping spots, trekking trails and wildlife watching locations.

How to Get There
The Park is accessible by over-night buses from Delhi or flights that land in Bhuntar in Himachal Pradesh. Make Kullu your base and then enter the park for wildlife spotting.

Entry Fees
There are separate fees for Indian and Foreign Nationals for the park entry at Rs 10 and Rs 200 per head, respectively. You also have to pay charges for carrying still and video camera. Students can get discounted prices.

Season
The best weather conditions for wildlife spotting are summers. This is the time when the animals step out of their verdant surroundings in search for water. If visiting Kullu, it is best to use this as a gateway for other places in Himachal and also Ladakh. Avoid the monsoon season due to road blocks and landslides.

Things to do
Apart from the key activity of wildlife spotting, the Great Himalayan National Park allows for some more interesting activities as the park lies in the heart of Himachal and there are plenty of opportunities to mingle with the locals. Some of the things that you may want to include:

1. Treks – There are 7 serious treks that you can do in addition to numerous smaller hikes. Sainj Valley, Tirthan, Gushaini, Jiwi Nala, Rakistar and Pin Parvati are some of the names that many adventure lovers reckon with. Book ahead to get a place on the treks with experts from the region.

2. Local Architecture – There has been a huge effort to retain and preserve the old Himachali architecture in the region. See the old wooden, mud and stone houses preserved by the Ecozone of GHNP, which blend in seamlessly with the environment.

3. Festivals – The Eco Tourism wing of the park gives you the opportunity to mix with the locals, especially at the times of the festivals. It is a great way of adding a unique experience to your visit and to get an understanding of the local lifestyle. Be a part of Fagli in winter, village fairs in April and the much celebrated Dusherra in October.

4. There are a number of pilgrimage sites close to the park. Local deities and Gods command great reverence. Raktisar, Hanskund and the Sirikhand Mahadev Lake are three places that one can visit.

5. Watch educational films and documentaries at the Larji Information Centre built for the benefit of the tourists. This is a great place to engage children with some knowledge based activities.

Explore the region
There are many reasons to visit this part of Himachal Pradesh and a variety of experiences for travellers. Make your base in the non touristy areas, and explore the hills and the frothy rivers. Camping, rafting, climbing, fishing and getting up close to village life should all be part of the itinerary.

Great destinations to explore in Himachal Pradesh include Manali which is just 32km from Kulla and a good place to base yourself for a few days.

If you are interested in visiting The Great Himalayan National Park  then our reservations team can help you plan a trip based on your interests. Get in touch to find out more!

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Trekking in Ladakh
Without debate it can be said that offer some of the most scenic landscapes to its visitors. Trekking fans with all levels of endurances can find great trekking routes in Ladakh. They range from the easiest 5-day Sham Trekking Tour to the renowned Trans Zanskar Expedition, which can last up to 27 days. Snow-capped mountains, Buddhist monasteries, trekking, rafting and breathless views are highlights of trekking in Ladakh.

Where to Stay: Depending upon the route one can choose to stay in Manali’s Manali Meadows or for and exceptional homestay experience in Ladakh contact our reservations team.

Trekking in Uttarakhand
Treks to Badrinath-Kedarnath are some of the best in the country. Other than their religious significance, these majestic snow-clad mountains are a delight for avid trekkers. From the easy Har ki Doon trekking route to difficult Kalindikhal Pass trekking routes.

Where to Stay: Based on the chosen trek, one can stay in Dehradun’s Wild Side or Manali’s Manali Meadows.

Trekking in Himachal Pradesh
Home of the most renowned hillstations, Himachal offers a lot of popular trekking routes to visitors. The 21-day Kugti Pass trek is the longest of them all and includes Mcleodganj, Keylong and Manali. For shorter trips, which last around a week, one can opt to stay mainly in Dharamshala-Mcleodganj.

Where to Stay: Great homestays near Dharamshala are Om Mahal and Santushti. A little further away, is the great Darang Tea Estate.

If you are interested in trekking in India then get in touch with our reservations team who can help you plan a fantastic itinerary.

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Shimla summer festival
The five-day long festival starts in early June, the specific date changes yearly. Famous singers from all over India are invited to perform on various nights, genres range from Bollywood music to Punjabi pop and folk songs. Shimla’s weather makes it a haven for horiculture and festival’s wonderful flower show depicts this beautifully. Other attractions include a food festival and even an art exhibition.

When to go
The peak season in Shimla is from May to July, so visiting Shimla in June is the perfect time for good weather. Hotels get booked well in advance during this time as people are looking for a respite from the heat. It is one of the top destinations for family summer vacations.

Where to stay
Cedar Hill Lodge and Vatsalyam Homestay are great options to beat the crowds that flock to the hills. Both are surrounded by thick Cedars.

Practical Advice
• Day trips to places like Cheil, Kufri, Annandale and many others can be prearranged or the journey can be spontaneously undertaken by just hopping into a taxi.
• Shimla is extremely well connected to North India.
• The Kalka-Shimla Rail connects Shimla to most cities in North India.
• The closest city is Chandigarh but a drive from Delhi to Shimla is common and convenient.
• A small airport also connects the hillstation to Delhi.
• Extremely comfortable AC Volvo buses leave Delhi for Shimla many times a day, every day. The price per ticket is no more than Rs. 700.

If you would like to visit Shimla in June contact our reservations team who will be happy to help you with your plans.

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