The beautiful Kangra Valley has so much to offer, with its stunning scenery and many attractions. You can explore lush green landscapes, visit ancient temples dedicated to goddesses, and taste the famous Kangra Tea. Don’t miss the chance to ride the UNESCO Heritage Mountain Railways and experience the vibrant culture of McLeodganj, known as Little Lhasa. For adventure lovers, there’s the exciting Triund Trek to conquer. Spending a week or two surrounded by the majestic Dhauladhar Mountains is a perfect vacation
Places to Explore at Kangra Valley
1.Kareri Lake
Only a small number of people who enjoy peace and quiet in stunning places choose to visit Kareri Lake among the other attractions in Kangra. Formed in the midst of the Dhauladhar range, this sparkling lake is a natural wonder. It freezes over in the winter, creating a refreshing atmosphere. One of its main draws is the trekking adventure, where you can try activities like Tyrolean Traversing.
2.The Brajeshwari Temple
The Brajeshwari Temple is dedicated to Goddess Brajeshwari, a form of Durga, and is very important in mythology. The temple you see today is a new version built after the old one was destroyed in an earthquake in 1905.
When planning your trip to Himachal, make sure to include a visit to the Brajeshwari Temple to discover its ancient stories and beautiful architecture. The fact that it was rebuilt after the earthquake shows how strong and faithful the people are. Whether you’re interested in its religious significance or just want to explore the lively marketplace nearby, a visit to this sacred place will be a memorable part of your Himachal journey.
3.Dhauladhar Range
If you hike to the top of the peak using its trekking routes, you’ll discover pure happiness. The Dhaulandhar Range is the southern border of the Himalayas, with its highest peak called Hanuman Ji Ka Tiba. It’s a popular destination for trekking.
Believe me, the views from this range are absolutely stunning. What’s even better is that you can visit this place at any time of the year. People who live here worship Goddess Dhauladhar. You should definitely plan a trip here for yourself!
4.Masrur
Masrur, also known as Masroor, is well-known for its Rock Cut Temple, which looks similar to the sculptures found in Ellora. When you’re at Masrur, you can visit the man-made lake and take some beautiful pictures. This historical site was visited by the Pandavas, who are characters from the Mahabharata epic. They carved these temples out of rock, which has made Masrur famous.
5.Malana Village
You might wonder, “Why visit a village?” But you wouldn’t believe how differently Malana Village sees tourist spots in Kangra. This village, also known as the “Village of Taboos,” is really unique! The people there think they’re better than everyone else and even say they’re descendants of Alexander the Great.
6.Indrahar Pass
Indrahar Pass is famous for its trekking adventure and the amazing experience it offers. Once you’re on it, you might think, “This is one of the best places to visit in Kangra.” The trek route is considered moderate to difficult, and it takes about 4-5 days to complete.
Camps are set up along the route for overnight stays. Despite being challenging, completing this trek is worth it and unforgettable. While some people find it a bit tough, nobody regrets doing it. Just be ready for unpredictable weather, like rain, sunshine, hailstorms, or snowfall.
How To Reach?
Reaching Kangra Valley is relatively convenient with options available by air, train, and bus:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Kangra Valley is Gaggal Airport, also known as Kangra Airport or Dharamshala Airport. It’s located about 14 kilometers from Dharamshala and around 10 kilometers from Kangra town. From major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Amritsar, you can find regular flights to Gaggal Airport. Once you land, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach different parts of the Kangra Valley.
- By Train: The closest major railway station to Kangra Valley is Pathankot Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Amritsar. From Pathankot, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Kangra Valley. Additionally, there’s a small railway station called Kangra Mandir Railway Station, but it’s not as well-connected as Pathankot.
- By Bus: Kangra Valley is well-connected by road, and you can find regular bus services from nearby cities like Pathankot, Dharamshala, and Palampur. Deluxe buses, as well as state-run buses, ply on these routes. Private taxis and cabs are also available for hire if you prefer a more comfortable and direct journey.
Time To Visit
Kangra starts getting the glimpse of winters from October. Visitors love planning a trip to this city during this month to become a part of the Navratri celebrations. The temperature in winters in Kangra can fall as low as 4 degrees Celcius with freezing weather. In some parts of the Kangra valley, you can witness snowfall in January and February.
November is the onset of full-fledged tourist season in Kangra. Sports and adventure enthusiasts can indulge in skiing down the snow-laden mountains during this time. By the end of February, there’s a rise in temperature. However, due to freezing nights, wearing heavy woollens is must during this month. Although this period isn’t an ideal month for travelling, one can cherish the snow-covered hilly landscapes.
Things To Do
Kangra Valley offers a range of adventure activities amidst its stunning natural landscapes. Here are some popular adventure activities you can enjoy in Kangra Valley:
Trekking: Kangra Valley is a paradise for trekkers, with trails ranging from easy to challenging. The Triund Trek, leading to a mesmerizing viewpoint overlooking the Dhauladhar Range, is one of the most popular treks in the region. Other trekking routes include the Kareri Lake Trek, Indrahar Pass Trek, and the Baijnath Temple Trek.
Paragliding: Bir-Billing, located near Kangra Valley, is renowned as one of the best paragliding destinations in the world. Experience the thrill of soaring through the sky amidst breathtaking views of the valley and the Himalayan peaks.
Mountain Biking: Explore the rugged terrain and scenic trails of Kangra Valley on a mountain bike. The region offers a variety of routes catering to different skill levels, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty while enjoying an exhilarating ride.
Rock Climbing and Rappelling: Test your strength and agility by indulging in rock climbing and rappelling adventures in Kangra Valley. With its rocky cliffs and challenging terrain, the valley provides ample opportunities for climbers and rappellers to push their limits.
River Rafting: Experience the adrenaline rush of river rafting on the Beas River, located near Kangra Valley. The river offers thrilling rapids suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters, providing an exciting way to explore the scenic landscapes from a unique perspective.
Camping: Spend a night under the starlit sky amidst the tranquil surroundings of Kangra Valley. Set up camp at scenic locations near rivers, forests, or meadows, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while enjoying bonfires, stargazing, and outdoor adventures.
Conclusion
To sum up, Kangra Valley is a stunning place that’s perfect for both nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its beautiful landscapes, old temples, and charming tea gardens, it’s a place that invites you to explore and enjoy. Whether you like hiking on scenic trails, flying high with paragliding, or riding the rapids while river rafting, there’s something exciting for everyone. You can also learn about the valley’s history and meet its friendly locals, adding more to your experience. Whether you’re looking for adventure or just want to relax surrounded by nature, Kangra Valley offers an unforgettable journey full of amazing discoveries.
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