Palampur
Palampur is the tea capital of northwest India. Set on the rising slopes of
Kangra Valley before they merge with the Dauladhar ranges. But tea is just one
aspect that makes Palampur a special resort. Abundance of water and proximity
to the mountains has endowed it with mild climate. The town has derived its
name from the local word "pulum', meaning lots of water. Palampur was a
part of the local Sikh kingdom and later on came under the British rule.
The place enjoys a healthy climate and the pine scented air is said to have
curative properties. The scenery presents a sublime and beautiful contrast-
the plain presents a picture of rural loveliness and repose, while the hills
are majestic. Behind this town stands the high ranges of Dhauladhar Mountains,
whose peaks remain, covered for most part of the year. Situated in and about
the middle of the Kangra Valley, it is convenient base to explore the surroundings.
This hill station is not only known for its numerous tea gardens and paddy
fields but it also known for its colonial architecture and temples. Palampur
and places around it are popular for adventure sports like hang-gliding and
trekking.
Prime Attractions of Palampur
Taragarh Palace
Now called Taragarh after Maharani Tara Devi, of the princely state of Jammu
and Kashmir, who became its subsequent owners, this is a splendid art-deco mansion
set amidst large grounds.
Al-Hilal
A few kilometres from the city of Palampur is Al-Hilal, a place of unparalleled
charm. During the conquests of Kangra by Maharaja Renjit Singh, this place was
a military bastion.
Andretta
The charming village, spread below thethickly wooded hill and sprawling plains
of the Kangra Valley was once the home of the famous painter Sardar Sobha Singh
and the playwright Ms Norah Richards. Now Andretta is a centre for various artistic
activities such as pottery and is just 13-km away from Palampur.
Baijnath
One of the most remarkable monuments of the Beas Valley is the temple of Baijnath.
The village of Baijnath is situated 23-miles east of Nagarkot,
Bir and Billing
Sheltered by the mountains and surrounded by tea gardens, Bir serves as a landing
ground for hang & para gliders as well as known for it's Buddhist monasteries
and Tibetan handicrafts. One of the best aero-sports sites in the world, Billing
is 14-km from Bir. The mountain ranges set like an amphitheatre, offer opportunities
for high altitude and cross-country flying for more than 200-km.
Neughal Khad
Close to the temple of Bundelmata temple, is this 300-metre-wide chasm through
which the Neugal stream flows.
Tea Factory
The cooperative society tea factory provides an insight to the processing of
Kangra Tea.
Temple of Bundelmata
Walk through tea gardens and open fields or drive to reach this temple built
about five centuries ago.
Excursions from Palampur
Chamunda Devi Temple
(25Km.)
Not far from Dharamsala is the famous temple of Chamunda Devi. It is an enchanting
spot with glorious views of the mountains, the Baner Khud, Pathiar and Lahla
forests. 15-km from Dharamshala a tiny village of Dadh on Palampur road is the
famous temple dedicated to Goddess Chamunda Devi.
Gopalpur: Palampur
(13Km.)
Situated 13-km away from the town, Gopalpur consists of a mini zoo.
Fairs & Festivals - Palampur
Holi: In the month of March, Holi's riot of colours and celebration of spring
comes with laughter and vitality. There are exuberant celebrations at Palampur
and Sujanpur.
How To Get There - Palampur
By Road
Palampur does not have an airport or railway station. The nearest railway station
is at Maranda, which is 2-km from Palampur and on the narrow-gauge line between
Pathankot and Joginder Nagar. The main bus station is located 1-km south of
the main Bazaar. There is frequent bus service from Palampur to Dharamshala,
Mandi, and Pathankot. Travelers can also make use of taxis to travel to these
towns from Palampur.
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