Kangra

Introduction and history: Kangra town is a picturesque spot in the confluence of Bener and Majhi streams, overlooking the Ban Ganga torrent, in Kangra District, Himachal Pradesh. In ancient times, this historic town, then called Nagarkot, had witnessed several invasions and political upheavals. The ruined Kangra Fort stands testimony to its glorious past. The region is also known for its ancient temples. Kangra was the ancient capital of the erstwhile rulers of Chand dynasty, but faced a series of invasions by Mahmud of Ghazni in AD 1009 and Feroz Shah Tughlaq in AD 1309. It was under the reign of Maharaja Sansar Chand Katoch that Kangra witnessed an upsurge in miniature paintings. Although a severe earthquake in 1905 destroyed most of the palace buildings, you can still see some of the paintings and murals on its walls.

What to see and when to go: There are many temples to visits such as Behna Mahadev, Brajeshwari Temple, Brijraj Behari Temple, Masrur Temple, Shiva Temple and Siddhanatha Temple. Kangra fort and Sujanpur forst are a must watch to understand the history of Kangra. The ideal time to visit Dharamshala is from the months of May to October.

Things to do: Kangra gives opportunity to become a wild-life lover by exploring the virgin jungles around that. One can visit the Pong Lake sanctuary and other nature parks at Kufri, Manali and Gopalpur.

Accommodation: There are lot of hotels available depending on the budget. The hotels are spread well across the valley and one can suite themselves as per his own preferred style of accommodation.

Mode of transport: Kangra airport is 7 Kilometres away and has got straight flights from Delhi. Nearest railhead at Pathankot is 86 Kilometres away and one is situated at Mukarian is 30 Kilometres. Kangra Valley express is a narrow gauge train, starting from Pathankot and continues to Bajinath. Kangra is well connected by road with Dharamsala, which is 18 Kilometres away. Tourists can hire taxis at reasonable cost from the major intersection of the city.

Related links:

• Official web site: www.hpkangra.nic.in

See also (nearby places): Macleodganj, Chamunda, Haripur, Dharamshala, Bhagsunath, Jawalamukhi, Nadaun, Una, Bilaspur, Rohtang Pass, Keylang, Manali, Kullu Valley, Pragpur.