Experience the Divinity and Serenity in Himachal Pradesh – Land of Gods!

If there is one state in India that is wonderfully lapped in nature’s luxury and still has the brilliance of ancient temples in plenty, it is definitely the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh – Land of Gods. It is aptly known as Dev Bhumi as well in Hindi, because of the presence of close to 2000 temples in the state. Surrounded by snow-capped Himalayan peaks all around and lush green farmlands, Himachal Pradesh is absolutely picture-perfect. It is also a famous holiday destination in the country. 

Why is the state known as Land of Gods? 

Nature is nothing but God’s creation. As per an old proverb in English, “those who can appreciate nature are the ones who see God”. This is absolutely true for Himachal Pradesh.  As far as your eyes can wander, you can see nothing but abundance of nature. Also, the state has its own connection with a great deal of Indian mythology as well, which has led to the place being called “Abode of the Gods”.  Some of the places that ought to be visited here are:

• Kinnaur – This ancient valley of Kinnaur is believed to be the place where the great Pandavas resided during their exile period. Surrounded by Tibet and great mountain ranges all over, Kinnaur is visited in large numbers by Hindus and Buddhists.
• Saraham – The 800 year old Bhimkali temple is an architectural marvel, indeed. This kingdom was believed to have been ruled by the son of Lord Krishna, Pradumna many centuries ago.
• Shakti Peeth Temples – The state houses two powerful Shakti Peeta temples, Naina Devi & Jwalamukhi , which attracts lots of Hindu devotees all over the year.

Some of the other significant temples in the state are Baijnath, Chamunda Mata, Bajeshwar, Masroor Rock, Kathgarh, Lakshmi Narayan, Chaurasi Temples of Bharmpur and the Hadimba. 

Best time to visit

Almost all the seasons in Himachal Pradesh present a picture that is worth visiting. Not many places have this feature in them. If you are a snow lover, visit the state during the months between November and February. This is the season when the state witnesses fresh snowfall in places like Kulu, Manali and Shimla, making it snow-skiing hub in the country.  Summer lasts from March to June and this is the time when you get to witness the lush green farmlands in their full glow. Make it a point to attend the Sipi Fair in Shimla during this time. 

Tourists get enchanted with Himachal Pradesh Climate

Himachal Pradesh has always been on my list of “must visit places” in India and I was able to pack my bags during monsoon which is the best season to visit Himachal Pradesh. 

best season to visit Himachal Pradesh.

The first thing I observed was that Himachal Pradesh Climate is wonderful especially the proximity to Himayalan Mountains adds to excitement and enthusiasm. After dumping our bags in the cottage, we went on entertainment packed trip suggested by travel agent. He first took us to the Dalhousie mansion and then to trekking trails, Victorian style mansions and the natural springs. We were awestruck at the architectural beauty of these mansions. It gave an eerie feeling as I was going back in time to British Rule and felt as if Lord Dalhousie came back alive.

By mid-day we were exhausted but Himachal Pradesh Climate was cool and soul warming. We relished a variety of paratha and rajma curry at a nearby restaurant without opting for a tri-star hotel. As icing on the cake, we were also treated with lassi (thick butter milk with sugar) and sweets that are exclusive eateries from kitchen of Himachal.

Then, the guide took us to Mini-Switzerland, Khajjar which is a lush green forest and my team had their time with camera capturing the natural flora and fauna. After a short break, mountaineering enthusiasts in the group ventured to trek, and as I felt that was a great task preferred to lie back basking in the warmth of Himachal Pradesh climate. We also tried our hands at zorbing and rafting for short breaks. The day ended with a traditional touch by visiting the Khajjar temple where Naga Deity was religiously worshipped with much fervour. We halted at one of the budget hotels in Khajjar to relax for the night.

Next morning, we were transported to a different world to unexplored modern hill stations in Chamba area. Unlike the climate of urban cities, Himachal Pradesh climate was welcoming and we were instantly active when my team again started off to capture the picturesque sceneries. I thanked my team for having dragged me into this trip during monsoon which is considered as the best season to visit Himachal Pradesh. I would have missed out on Indian paradise had I planned an alternative vacation.

The ancient temples, architectural beauty and Church of Scotland are some of the places we adventured into at Chamba in post lunch session. I also picked up a few exclusive handicraft articles and hand embroidered Chamba Rumal, an art exclusively found in Himachal Pradesh.

My next adventure to Himachal will definitely include the famous Sipi fair at Manali, celebrations of the Tibetan New Year and other places which I missed out in this trip.  

Official Transport of Himachal Pradesh and HRTC fare Structure

The Road transport system still remains the only mode of passenger travel in Himachal Pradesh with railways and air services forming negligible share of transport in the State. Hence, we take pride in the fact that we provide a transport system of which the State as a whole can be proud of. We have been recognised on various occasions for the world class services provided to commuters. The root of all services is based on the ideology to provide prompt service with technology based solutions without compromising on safety issues. The fleet of buses available at Himachal Pradesh Transport Corporation in different categories forms the core of logistic management, which is why the public resorts to our services. The biggest network of offices, dedicated staff and ease of approach provide niche to the services provided by us.

We take pride in the range of vehicles are a class apart because these are duly fitted with high technology engines specially imported to suit rough valley rides in Himachal Pradesh. Interiors of the buses are designed as per standards prescribed by the State Government.

The onus of ensuring the best road transport and customized facilities lies on our shoulders and our staff executes this with utmost ease and confidence. We provide online ticket booking facility as part of e-governance without compromising on offline booking counters that are equipped with high end technology to meet peak season demands. The fare structure for each category of customized services is available on our web portal under the hyperlink HRTC fare structure.

HRTC fare structure is designed to provide public service at reasonable cost and is fixed by State Government on periodical basis. The fare includes charges for luggage upto 80 kgs per passenger.

If you opt to travel by deluxe or semi-deluxe bus, the comfort levels increase and hence no discounts or concessions are provided. Recently, we have also launched super luxury deluxe Volvo bus running on specified routes for which online booking facility is yet to be launched. The HRTC fare structure includes charges for luggage or weight upto 80 kgs per passenger.

We also provide concessions to students of schools and colleges at discounted rates. Also concessions are available for children in the age group of 6-15 years, citizens above 60 years, and group travelers, the details whereof can be obtained either online or from the wide network of offices of Himachal Pradesh Transport Corporation.