Monday, June 15, 2015

Chail: kingdom in the skies!

Part of ‘Golden Triangle’ – Shimla-Kufri-Chail


Learned about the splendid destination near to Shimla close to skies; and found it more peaceful and enchanting. ‘Chail’ the summer retreat to Maharaja of Patiala nestling at 2550 m surmounted with deep deodar forest and you can smell the aromatic fragrance of pine.
My urge to nectar the beauty of the lesser known princely estate took me away from Solan, the hustling-bustling hub of pharma and brewery industries. This is extension to my weekend gateways Chandigarh and Solan. Chail, is untouched habitat nurtured in mountains is blessed with pleasant weather across the year. This hill station is like best inspiration of God on green canvass lived with every colour dipped in serenity. Steered by well connected Shimla-Kalka highway, take rout either from Kandaghat or Shimla via Kufri, you will thank to almighty for driving through the splendid state of Himachal Pradesh. Known as part of Golden triangle (shimla-kufri-chail), Chail is connected through road 63 km from Shimla, 120km from Chandigarh can be reached by rail from Kandaghat, and Jabarhatti (Shimla) and airport. The places of attraction are Chail Palace, Cricket Ground and Sidh Baba temple. Chail Palace is the heritage mansion is not huge but recalls the royal living of the Maharaja and Maharani. The palace has grand courtyard, bar, dining hall, with antique furniture, lush green courtyard now turned to a heritage hotel. You can simply visit it in one or two hours. A cricket ground here is also part of rich heritage. Built in 1893, Chail cricket stadium has highest cricket pitch in the world look after by Rasthriya Military School.
Sadhupul: en-route to Kandaghat and Chail is this village and bridge astride the Ashwani stream has reputation of picnic spot. Subathu: Is a cantonment town in Solan district has long back history is known for the Gurkha Fort and museum display valor of Gurkha Rifles.

Sunday, May 17, 2015

Lake District of India: Nainital

Blissful Days in the Lake District of India: Nainital


Nainital, situated in the Kumaon region of God’s heavenly creation Uttrakhand, is renowned for its majestic natural lakes surmounted with foggy hills and trails through thick forest. Nainital is named after 'Naini Lake' situated in the heart of this British time vibrant summer tourist attraction is connected through road, railways and airways.


The local tourist attractions Mall Road, Tiffin Top, Governer’s House, Sattal, Bhimtal, Kurpatal, Pashan Devi temple, Nanda Devi, St John's Church, Gurney House are closely located. This place is true paradise to the adventure sport lovers, this includes rafting, kayaking, boating, trekking, canoeing ,hiking, etc . The essential ancient Hindu place of worship perched on hilltop - Mukteshwar ( 51 Km), Abode of Jim Corbett - Gurney House (10 min), Ranikhet ( 53km) bird watchers delight - Pangot (40 Km) has potential of thrilling with religious and historical values gathered with scenic beauty.
More, lavish holiday can be stretched to the adventurous wildlife journey, den of tiger – Jim Corbett Park; Sonanandi wildlife sanctuary, Pangot and Kilbury Bird Sanctuary brings you close watch to the undisturbed natural habitat. This region has rich delicacies of dishes and sweets, Phannu, Badi, Rus ( prepared by lentils), Gulgula (a sweet snack), Kandalee ka Saag, Palau are the local and unique preparations can be relish in dhaba and restaurants.

Blessed with natural water bodies and green pastured majestic hills provides picturesque landscape view. Nainital is undoubtedly the best place to spend leisure holidays anytime in year within the best amenities. Road conditions throughout is good but it may irritate you during monsoon. It is pleasurable place to feel blessed with wonderful people, lake walk, adventure trails through coniferous forests, boating, drive by foggy roads and fearing heights, knowing history, taking blessings, passing roadby tea garden and apple orchards.