Hidimba Devi Temple, also known as Dhungari Temple, is a unique and ancient shrine located in Manali, India. Dedicated to Hidimba, the wife of Bhima from the Indian epic Mahabharata, this temple is set amidst a lush cedar forest called Dhungri Van Vihar. The structure, built in 1553 by Maharaja Bahadur Singh, stands out with its distinctive pagoda-style architecture and intricately carved wooden facade.
Kangra Fort is a historic fortress located in the Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is one of the oldest and largest forts in India, with its origins tracing back to the Trigarta Kingdom mentioned in the Mahabharata. The fort is perched on a steep rock and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the confluence of the Banganga and Manjhi rivers. Over the centuries, it has witnessed numerous battles and has been ruled by various dynasties, including the Katoch dynasty, Mughals, and the British. The fort’s architecture showcases a blend of ancient Indian and medieval Mughal styles, featuring grand gateways, temples, and palaces.
Rashtrapati Niwas, also known as the Viceregal Lodge, is a historic building located in Shimla, India. Built in 1888, it served as the residence of the British Viceroy of India. The Lodge is an architectural marvel, featuring a blend of Scottish and Victorian styles. It is situated on Observatory Hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Today, Rashtrapati Niwas houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, an academic institution dedicated to promoting advanced research in the humanities and social sciences.
Mall Road in Shimla, India, is a bustling and iconic thoroughfare known for its colonial-era charm, vibrant atmosphere, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. It serves as a central hub for tourists and locals alike, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, cafes, and heritage buildings. The road is a pedestrian-only zone, making it a pleasant place for leisurely walks and shopping.
Jakhu Temple is a renowned Hindu shrine located in Shimla, India, dedicated to the deity Hanuman. Perched atop Jakhu Hill, the highest peak in Shimla, the temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the town below. The temple is famous for its enormous statue of Hanuman, which stands at 108 feet and is visible from various parts of Shimla. Pilgrims and tourists visit Jakhu Temple not only for its spiritual significance but also for the beautiful trek through dense forests to reach it.
Key Monastery, also known as Kye Gompa, is a prominent Tibetan Buddhist monastery situated in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. Perched at an altitude of 4,166 meters (13,668 feet) above sea level, it is one of the largest and oldest monasteries in the region. Key Monastery is renowned for its stunning architecture, which resembles a fortress with its whitewashed walls and tiered structure. It serves as a training center for Lamas and houses numerous ancient Buddhist scriptures, paintings, and murals.
Christ Church in Shimla, India, is one of the most prominent landmarks of the city. Built in 1857, it is the second oldest church in North India and a splendid example of neo-Gothic architecture. The church's striking yellow facade and tall stained glass windows make it a standout feature on the Ridge, the central part of Shimla. Inside, visitors can admire the beautiful stained glass windows that represent faith, hope, charity, fortitude, patience, and humility. Christ Church also houses an old pipe organ, one of the biggest in the Indian subcontinent.
Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir is a revered Hindu temple located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India. Dedicated to Goddess Chamunda, a fierce form of Durga, the temple attracts numerous devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Dhauladhar range, the temple offers not only a spiritual retreat but also breathtaking natural beauty. The sacred Baner River flows by the temple, adding to its serene ambiance. The temple complex also includes a cave-like shrine where it is believed the goddess manifested herself.
The Masrur Temples, also known as the Rock Cut Temples of Masroor, are a group of 15 monolithic rock-cut temples located in the Kangra Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. Dating back to the 8th century, these temples are intricately carved and are dedicated primarily to Hindu deities, including Shiva, Vishnu, and Devi. The central temple, styled in the architectural form of a shikhara (spire), stands out for its detailed carvings and elaborate iconography. The temples are positioned around a rectangular water tank, which adds to the site's serene and spiritual ambiance.
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