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Kangra one of
Himachal’s most beautiful valleys, rolls down the sou thern
edge of the magnificent Dhauladhar range in gentle slopes that are
covered with lush green forests of pine , orchards, tea gardens and
terraced fields.
Dhauladhars the white ranges, rise up to 14, 000ft from the valley
floor much like a massive wall providing a dramatic back droup to
the soothing panoramic landscape.
Kangra
is a charming town located just 17 km away from Dharamsala , in one
of the prettiest valleys of the Himachal, Brimming wityh lush green
terraces and orchards, it overlooks a gushing stream known as
Banganga, Once the ancient capital of a powerfull hill state, kangra
was known for its magnificent temples and as a thriving centre for
arts , in particular, the exquisite Pahari style of miniature
painting that flourished during the reign of Raja Sansar Chand .
Fine murals commissioned by the King are still of found in palaces
and temples across this area, However at kangra itself only a fort
and a handful of temples remain as a reminder of Kangra glorious
past.
Just
outside the town is a beautiful temple. It is renowned for it is
legendary wealth and craftsmanship. Dedicated to Bajreshwari Devi,
invaders from the north systematically attacked this temple and
Mohammed Ghazni is know to have looted a king’s ransom in gold,
silver an jewels in the year 1009 earthquake, the temple was rebuilt
in 1920. It continues to be a busy place of pilgrimage even today.
Stalls outside the temple provide everything pilgrims’ may need and
also sell brass puja utensils incense , sacred threads, flags and
images of the goddess.
Kangra
is famous the world over for its astounding beauty, Surrounded by
splendid valleys, it is dotted with several ancient shrines making
it a destination hard to resist for any traveller.
A visit
is an experience to be remembered.
Around Kangra :
Jwalamukhi : This popula palace of pilgrimage is accessible from
Kangra (30 km) as well as Dharamshal the ancient temple built
against a wooded spur, has a dome that was gilded by Maharaja Ranjit
Sing, Pilgrims consider as eternally burning flame emanating from a
hollow rock in the sanctum to be a manifestation of the godd ess
Devi. The temple comes alive with Nawratra celebrations and colorful
fairs during March April and Sep Oct every year.
Nadaun : Build as capital by Raja Sansar Chand on the river beas,
Nadaun is a quit charming place for an extended weekend or for a
spot of angling in River Beas.
Sujanpur Tira : Further upstream on the banks of the river Beas,
is the capital city of Raja Sansar Chand just 22kms from Hamirpur.
General Information
Altituede : 615 m
Climate :Varies between 35C and 0C
How
to Reach : Kangra is well connected by road. The board gauge
railhead at pathankot connectsto a narrow gauge line. The nearest
Airport, Kangra, is just 7 kms away from Kangra town
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