Top 20 Must Visit Places in Dehradun

Dehradun, located in beautiful Doon Valley in foothills of the Himalaya, is the capital city of Uttarakhand, providing gateway to some well known travel stations of India, including Mussoorie, Nanital, Rishikesh and Haridwar. 

Popular among tourists and travelers for its pleasant climate, this city is bordered by two holy rivers of India - The Ganga and the Yamuna. 

During rainy days, this beautiful valley enjoys very heavy rains and during winters the climate becomes ice cold. During summers, the climate stays normal. 

Being a suitable destination to visit through out the year, this city has become a preferred destination for all kind of tourists like family, couples, foreigners, group travels, corporate holidays and travelers including solo travelers like me :) 

Being a part of the Princely Garhwal State the local customs of the Garhwali people have influenced the culture in the city. 

Read : 

Dehradun - City on its Pathway from Ancient to Modern

देहरादून - अतीत से वर्तमान की पगडंडी पर बसा एक शहर

Local beauty can be enjoyed anytime of the day. But in order to enjoy all the sight-seeing destinations in Dehradun, you must stay for 3-4 days. 

Being a mobile photographer, I prefer capturing my travels in my cellphone only. Unfortunately I lost my phone in my travel and with that, almost all the images. Some are here, which I was able to save, as had shared with friends. 

Here, I am listing the top 20 must visit places in Dehradun, that I visited myself, with some other local attractions which are optional. If you are planning your trip to Dehradun, then you must visit these places : 

1. Sahastradhara, Dehradun

Sahastra Dhara, the name means - Thousand Fold Spring; got its name due to the waterfalls it has along with the water dripping from limestone stalactites in the caves and its waterfalls.

Being, comprised of waterfalls, caves and steppe farming lands and Baldi River, it provides a totally marvelous and rejuvenating experience to tourists. 

Owing to the presence of sulphur in the water of this spring, it is believed to have medicinal value. 

With its medicinal properties and beautiful views, Sahastradhara enjoys plenty of attraction. 

Just 14 km from the city, it is the must visit places in Dehradun. 

2. Tiger Falls, Dehradun

Tiger Falls, situated amidst a picturesque setting of dense forests at the foothills of the Himalayas, this 50 meters high waterfalls is located 1400 meters above sea level. 

The pond created by fall, makes a wonderful picnic destination for outing with friends and family. 

3. Robber’s Cave, Dehradun

Robbers cave is a 600 meters long river cave, which is locally known as Gucchupani. According to the local story, during British Era, the robbers used to hide in these caves after loot, hence owing its present name - Robber's Cave. 

Divided into two main parts with its highest fall being 10 meters long, Robber's Cave is famous for its unique natural phenomenon known as the disappearing stream, which suddenly disappears from the sight and appears again after few metres.

Located at a distance of 8 km from Dehradun, it is a must visit destination in Dehradun. 

4. Tapovan

Tapovan, according to the Hindu epic Mahabharatha, is the place where Guru Dronacharya performed his penance. The place is located on the banks of the River Ganges and is considered to be a major pilgrim spot. It is also known for its amazing meadows known as Nandavan which are trekked by various pilgrims and trekkers.

5. Mindrolling Monastery

Founded in 1965, this re-established facility of the original Mindrolling Monastery and was established by Khochhen Rinpoche. It is located in Clement Town area of Dehradun and is locally known as Tibetan Monastry. 
Originally it was established in 1676, by Rigzin Tendak Lingpa. The name of the monastery, Mindroling in Tibetan language means Place of Perfect Emancipation.
The Monastery houses the Ngagyur Nyingma College which is one of the largest Buddhist learning centers in India. 
The well maintained gardens and a 60 meters high stupa and contains various rooms which are decorated with murals and house various relics and a 35 meters high statue of Lord Buddha in Gold.

The Great Stupa, inaugurated on 28th October 2002 is one of the major attractions here. Being 185 ft tall and 100 sq. ft in width, these dimensions make it the world's largest stupa.

6. Tapkeshawar Temple

Tapkeshawar Mahadev Temple, located at the banks of the Nandi River,  is considered to be the oldest Shiva temple in Uttarakhand. 
The Temple is located within a cave which is characterized by naturally dripping water over the Shiva lingam placed here. The dripping water is the reason behind the name of this temple. Water drops ( Tapak in Hindi ), naturally on Shivlainga.
According to old legend, lord Shiva made milk flow here for Ashwasthama, son of Guru Dronacharya. 
The cool sulphur springs located around the temple are believed to have therapeutic value. Hence, these springs are ideal points for tourists to take a dip while visiting the temple.
Every year, the shivratri festival is organized here, that attracts a lot of devotees.  

7. Sai Durbar Temple

Sai Durbar Temple, located at a distance of around 8 km from the Clock Tower, is situated on the Rajpur Road. Built with marble stones, the chief idol is established in the core of this temple. The interiors of this temple are adorned with several beautiful paintings, which are made using different colours.

8. Laxman Siddh Temple

Laxman Siddh Temple, located at a distance of 12 km from Dehradun, is known for its scenic beauty. This temple is the cremation site of the Saint-Swami Laxman Siddh, which is visited by large number of tourists every year.

According to a popular belief, it is said that the temple is constructed on the same place where Laxman underwent repentance for killing the demon king Ravana. Thousands of devotees visit this temple during the annual Laxman Siddh Fair, which is also a major attraction. Tourists visiting the temple can reach the here only on foot.

9. Rajaji National Park

Rajaji National Park, spread over a massive 820 sq kilometers of land, it falls in a region shared by 3 districts, Dehradun, Haridwar and Pauri Garhwal. The reserve consists of subtropical and tropical moist broadleaf forests that house a plethora of wildlife, birds and fish species. 
It is also a major habitat of the Asian elephant and the Bengal Tiger in India.

10. Forest Research Institute

The Forest Research Institute, established in 1906, as the British Imperial Forestry Service; is a premier research institute. 
Spread over an area of around 2000 acres, the institute contains a museum for forestry with six main sections that are Pathology Museum, Social Forestry Museum, Silviculture Museum, Timber Museum, Non-Wood Forest Products Museum and Entomology Museum.

The main attraction of this institute is the building itself, which has been constructed in Greco-Roman colonial style. 

In addition, the place also houses a Botanical Garden, which is a popular picnic spot among travellers. Besides, inside the estate, there is Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy that trains probationer officers of the Indian Forest Service.

11. Lacchiwalla : 

The verdant forests of Lachhiwala lies along the Haridwar-Rishikesh Road at a distance of just 17 km from Dehradun and 30 minutes drive from Haridwar. Being an important picnic spot, people come here along with family and friends to spend some quality time, away from the frenetic rat race of the city life. 

12. Mall Road, Dehradun 

Mall Road in Dehradun is one of the busiest shopping centres and is located in the heart of the city. It is a perfect place to talk a walk with your loved ones. 

Shopping at Mall Road can be a memorable experience for the whole family. It is a one stop place for shoppers and exhibits a wide range of products such as electronics items, ornaments, second hand books, handicrafts and readymade garments. 
Though the main attraction in this place are the woollens items like Tibetan carpets, blankets and Garwahli shawls, other products like wooden bangles, traditional jewellery, dry fruits and traditional embroidered garments are easily available. 

13. Clock Tower 

Clock Tower, located on the Rajpur road, is one of the most prominent attractions of the destination. Encircled by the commercial centre of the city, the Clock Tower is one of the most renowned landmarks of the city that was constructed before independence by the British. A beautiful tourist attraction, this tower has six faces.

At present, this clock tower is not functional but it is said that previously the chime of this clock was audible even far away from the commercial centre of the destination. Tourists visiting the Clock Tower can also head towards the important institutions, schools, hotels, shopping complex and tourist spots located in the vicinity.

14. Indian Military Academy

Indian Military Academy, located in Dehradun, became functional from 1st October 1932. It is situated at a distance of around 8 km from the main city, on Dehradun-Chakrata Road. Initially, it started with a batch of 40 Cadets. The first commandant of this academy was Brigadier L.P. Collins.

In order to establish Indian Military Academy, the government acquired the former Railway College of Dehradun. Popularly known as Chetwode Building, the academy was named after Field Marshal Sir Philip Chetwode. He was the Commander-in-Chief of India at the time of establishment of the Indian Military Academy. In addition, he was the one who inaugurated this academy.

15. Malsi Deer Park 

Malsi Deer Park, located at a distance of 10 km from Dehradun, is one of the major tourist attractions in the city. Situated on the foothills of the Shivalik mountain range, this park is a Zoological Garden.

Apart from Deers, tourists visiting the park can also spot beautiful peacocks. In addition, this reservoir is home to Nilgai, which is also known as Antelope. This place is an ideal picnic spot, where the park authorities have even installed several slides for children to play.

At present, there are several attractions located within this academy that attract travellers. Museum, War Memorial, Shooting Demonstration Room and 18-holes FRIMS Golf Course are some of the attractions located within the Indian Military Academy.

16. Paltan Bazaar

Looking for local stuff, Paltan Bazaar is here for your. It is the main local market in Dehra Dun, is permanently filled with the fragrances of Basmati rice and spices, for which it is well known.
These woollen garments are made by the local tribes. Among the woollen garments abundantly available in the bazaar are sweaters, cardigans and shawls woven by the Nepalese women. The market is also famous for woollen carpets.

Other attractions in the market are the products made of bamboo and cane. 
Local paintings, brass statues, gift items and ornaments are also available in the market. The Paltan Bazaar is the right place to buy some mementoes on your visit to Uttarakhand.

The other nearby markets in Dehra Dun are Rajpur Road, Ashley Hall area, Sahakari Bazaar, Mall Road and Connaught Place. Dehra Dun, which is famous for Doon schools, is easily accessible by all modes of transport. October to April is the best season to visit the place.

17. Sri Ram Rai Gurudwara 

Sri Ram Rai Gurudwara, constructed in early 17th century, established by Guru Sri Ram Rai Ji, the 7th Sikh Guru, is one of the oldest gurudwaras in this valley.
It is said that Guru Ram Rai was casted away for becoming a Sikh Guru and was forced to leave his native place. 

After being moved out from his home town, he settled in Dehradun, where he constructed this famous gurudwara. 

18. Chandrabani

Chandrabani is located at a distance of around 7 km from Dehradun. This temple is also the site of the popular Gautam Kund, where devotees take a dip in the holy water.

According to ancient mythology, it is believed that the place was the resident of Maharishi Gautam, his mate and Anjani, his daughter. In addition, it is also believed by many that Chandrabani is the spot where the daughter of heaven, Maa Ganga, manifested herself.

19. Asan Barrage Water Sport Resort

Developed by the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam at the Asan barrage, the water sports facility was opened in 1994. Located at the Dhalipur Lake the Asan Barrage Water Sport Resort offers various types of water sports facilities like boating, kayaking, canoeing and is also known as a shutterbug’s delight for its various migratory birds.

20. Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology

Previously known as the Institute of Himalayan Geology, the facility is one of the best centers of Himalayan Geology in the country. The best attraction here is the museum that displays the diverse geographic locations of India and visitors often get to know a few stunning facts about the geology of different regions in India.

Other Places : Chetwoode Hall, Jwalaji Temple (Benog Hill), Lakha Mandal Temple, Santala Devi Temple

How To Reach Dehradun

Want to know how to go to Dehradun? There are a lot of options for sightseeing in Dehradun. Hotels in Dehradun are also quite easy to find, the pre-booking facility is available for most hotels in this place and you should book in advance as it is a popular sightseeing spot. HolidayIQ provides you with a detailed guide about how to reach Dehradun.

By Bus: Dehradun trip by bus is scenic experience. You can choose to go for the Dehradun trip by bus by doing pre-bookings from any of the major travel websites. 

By Train: You can board a train to Dehradun from any part of the country. 
Book you tickets on a Dehradun train through IRCTC website. Get off at the Dehradun railway station from where other transport options are available.

Train No. 12017 - Dehradun Shtbdi

Train No. 12055 - Dehradun Janshtbdi

Train No. 13009 - Doon Express

Train No. 14041 - Mussoorie Express

Train No. 14113 - Sangam Express Slip

By Flight: You can reach Dehradun by flight as well. The Jolly Grand Terminal also known as the Dehradun airport is a domestic terminal located in the foothills of the Himalayas. There are a number of flights to Dehradun connecting major metro cities.

By Cab/Car: Dehradun is one of the most popular many hill stations in India. Most commonly travellers access Dehradun by road in order to experience the angelic beauty of the Himalayan Ranges. Travel to Dehradun by car through the hairpins and mountain roads.

Post By -
Alok Upadhayay 

10 Best Places for Desserts in India, You Must Visit

Mostly people in India are dessert lovers and are the proud owners of the sweet tooth. Especially in India people don’t search for a reason or occasion to have dessert. Below is the cherry picked list which the hardcore lovers of desserts can visit to satisfy the taste buds.

Also Read :  Top 20 Must Visit Places in Dehradun

Kuremal Mohanlal Kulfi Wale, Delhi

Looking for something freezing yet tempting, then this place is a perfect fit for you. 

Located in Old Delhi, walking distance from Chawri Bazaar, this hidden gem hosts a lot of flavored Kulfies for you. 

Kuremal Mohanlal Kulfiwale serves the best kulfis you’d ever have. You can find varieties of kulfies here, in different flavors like - Mango, Tamarind, Pomegranate, Paan and Falsa. Actually they serve, kulfies over 50 different exotic flavors and that's their specialty. If you are visiting, don't forget to try stuffed kulfis. Trust me, they are so fingerlicious.

The Society Cafe, Delhi

This newly opened nice cafe is located in South Extension 2, New Delhi, bang on Ring Road and since the day I visited here for the first time, I have been in love with this place. Awesome ambiance, soothing music and aroma of delicious food, just push your appetite sky high. Though they have really amazing mouthlicious food, but in desserts, your will love their Brownies with ice cream.

So tempting that, you just cannot stop without asking one more.

Delicately baked brownies, gently topped with vanilla and chocolate ice creams, melting slowly.... yummm yumm... its a must eat, if you are visiting Delhi.

Kayani Bakery, Pune

Kayani Bakery of Pune has been serving since British’s era and probably that's the reason behind its colonial charm too. I came to know about it during my visit to a friend in Pune. When she told me about it, I thought to give it a try and I am glad that I did. There Shrewsbury Biscuits are rally so delicious and just melt away in your mouth the moment you take a bite, leaving a buttery signature. You sometimes may need to wait for your turn as this place is always flooded with buyers. Oh ! Yes, must try their Mawa Cake and Sponge Cake too.

Nahoum and Sons, Kolkata

Knowing my love for desserts, my friend in Kolkata, recommended me to visit this place during my brief trip to Kolkata, and turns out, he was right. This bakery is very famous for its amazing and piquant taste of desserts. I tried, lemon puff, custard rolls and strawberry cubes along with varieties of chocolate pastries.  Visiting Kolkata !! must check it out.

Ritz Restaurant,Lucknow

My love for Motichoor Laddoo, pulled me to this famous restaurant in Lucknow. Ritz Restaurant, well famous for its Motichoor Laddoos made of desi ghee. These delicious laddoos are so moist and  tempting that you don’t have to chew them as they will just melt by their own. Other than that, I am a die hard fan of Kaju Katlis and at this place, they taste utterly dreamy.

Leopold Cafe, Mumbai

For a dessert love like me, The Leopold Cafe in Mumbai was like holy triad The most heavenly Raspberry Cheesecake, Blueberry Cheesecake, Carrot Cake and Chocolate pastries will put you in dessert-land the moment you take a bite. If you are in Mumbai, and are a dessert lover like me, then you must visit this place. .

Chowk,Varanasi

I have my childhood memories from this city, and theVaranasi’s Chowk has got a spacial place in my heart for its frothy, light and creamy Malaiyo.

Malaiyo is kind of milk foam prepared under morning’s fresh dew, very delicate and is flavored with saffron and dry fruits. Yes, to enjoy it, you need to be in Varansi in winters. .

Paradise Restaurant in Hyderabad

If you love Apricots, then Paradise Restaurant of Hyderabad is a must visit place for you. They serve the best compote of apricots, popularly known as Qubani kaa Meetha.

Take half bowl of Qubani kaa Meetha and top it with scoop of vanilla ice cream and enjoy this nawabi dessert with dry fruits, saffron, cardamom and other exotic flavors and spices.

Mehru Halwai, Shimla

Walking in the Lower Bazaar, Mall Road, Shimla, my host told me to try the Gulab Jamuuns of Mehru Halwai. It was an awesome rainy day and my sweet tooth just pushed me in the direction. Though I was intended to order only Gulab Jamuns, but ended up ordering Gulab Jamun, Chaina Murgi (  Sweet Coated Paneer Pellets ) and Jalebi along with a cup to hot creamy milk with saffron. Their specialty lies in mouthwatering mawa barfi served with an invaluable addition of almonds and coconut powder. Delicious and fresh preparations in desi ghee enticed my taste buds and made that evening memorable. If you are visiting Shimla, and especially in rainy day, must visit this place.

Honey Hut, Rishikesh

Honey Hut, an elegantly decorated cafe, with wonderful ambiance just near Lakshman Jhula, is a must visit if you love reading, good view, delicious dessert and are in Rishikesh.

As the name says itself, they have honey as their signature. You will find honey in every dish instead of sugar, and that makes the coffee, pastries and other desserts experience way better.

I ordered choco swiss roll, ( super soft pastry with loads of chocolate on top ), it was so fingerlicious that I ordered one more and trust me this dessert is all worth giving it a try with one more and may be one more, if you have appetite.

Stay Connected for more.. 

- Alok Upadhayay

Instagram : @myminilens

- Solo traveler, Avid Reader and Writer.. 

Places You Must Visit in Gwalior

In earlier post -  I had shared my experience about 2 days weekend trip to Gwalior, very briefly ( trust me it was brief ).

ग्वालियर : जिसकी रूह में बसता है संगीत   

Gwalior - The Medieval Majestic City With Music in its Soul

Yet, there was something missing, and I couldn't stop myself from writing this post about : The Places You Must Visit in Gwalior.

Read: 16 Must Visit Places in Gwalior

Gwalior, named after saint Gwalipa, is a small city, though there is alot to see. I went there unplanned and not with a lot of hopes, but returned with tons of memories, surprises and amazing experience of the city, that is a great example of - combination of ancient and modern. 

Let's see, the hidden pearls of this majestic city : 

Jai Vilas Palace & Museum

Man Singh Palace

Gwalior Fort

Gujari Mahal

The Chhatris 

Jain Rock Sculptures 

Scindhiya School 

Gwalior Gate also know as Alamgiri Gate

Bansur (Archer’s Gate) 

Badalgarh Gate or Hindola Gate

Bhairon Gate 

Ganesh Gate 

Hathiya Paur Gate

Hawa Gate

Urvai Gate

Gurudwara Data-Bandi-Chor Sahib

Temples you will find in your way 

Gwalipa Temple 

Chatarbhuj Mandir

Shiva and Parvati Statue 

Saas Bahu Temples

Teli ka Mandir

Sun Temple

The Sound and Light Show at Gwalior Fort

How to Get Cheapest Air Tickets for you Journey

Being a frequent traveler, I prefer the journeys by train when its less then 10-12 hours, but in long distances I prefer to travel by air to save the precious time. 

In last couple of years, I have been to various places and to some places multiple times. One day I realized that, the Air tickets to same cities have sometimes been very cost effective and some times I have paid higher than average price. The Question was WHY !!

The answer was hidden in the date stamps on the tickets. Now the question was, when and how to book my flights in most cost effective way. I started some research and analysis on the change in Air fares. The conclusion was, I had got best deals on all those bookings that had been made atleast 60-70 days in advance or earlier. 

Here, based on my travel experiences, I am sharing some tips on How to Get Cheapest Price on Your Flights...

Air Fare Pricing - How it works : 

Simple basic rule of economics, supply and demand, accompanied with need and surge pricing model. 

On average, you can buy your air tickets 11 months before. But its not like, you will be getting any early bird deal if you book 11 months before. 

There is a pattern in pricing, that is : Staring off with high prices, coming down slowly till few weeks before the date and steep increase in last 14 days. 

So, what happens when with Air fares when you book your flight: 

Before 11 - 7 months : 

These booking can be know as early birds bookings, however other than any special offers, there are no benefits in booking these tickets. Generally the prices are higher in these days. You can only expect to get the cheap air tickets if there is some promotional offer running. 

The only benefit of booking tickets in this duration is that, you can get full full choice of flight options and better seat selection.

Booking before 3 to 6 months 
Want to plan your journey with peaceful mind, get all thing done on time and without trouble. Then you must plan and book your air tickets in this duration. You can easily get more flight options, good seat selection options and comparatively cheaper deals than in  "early birds bookings" period. 

Booking between approximately 3 weeks - 3 months

This duration is the best time frame to get the cheapest deals ( other than offers). Just keep an eye on the fares during these 90 days, as they fluctuate alot. Also, you can find decent offers on air fares easily during these days. I call it, "relaxed zone"
The benefit of booking during these days is :
- You have your journey well planned and with minimal chances of cancellation.
- The fare are at best possible price with or without lucrative deals.

Booking before 14-20 days ( 2-3 weeks ) 

In cases of popular destinations, in this time frame, there are slim chances of getting a good deals on air fares. The flights get expensive, the choice of seats are less and you have all chances to get worried about making amendments in your travel plan. 

Between 0-13 days ( last 2 weeks ) 

You have all your rights to get frustrated while searching for air tickets at reasonable air fares. If you are booking your tickets within 7 days of departure, you need to pay more than what you have had paid during  "relaxed zone" time period. Also, you’ll probably have limited choices for flight times and seats.

Try Your Luck ( on the day of travel ) 
It has always been and interesting experience, while booking air travel tickets directly at air port on the day of travel and just before time of travel.
It has always been a luck here in terms of tickets availability and air fares .
Sometime, you can easily grab a ticket at 60-70% of normal price and some time you need to pay for your need of 11th hour.
If you are lucky, you may find the Aviation companies selling tickets on highly discounted prices just before the time of departure. This happens if the flight has significant number of seats vacant or the flight has been a longer route like ( I got it twice ) NY to Del to Mumbai.

Summary : 

Booking early gives a good deal, but booking very early like a year out will not get you a good deal. 

The best time to book a ticket is 30-60 days before the date of journey. 

You can try your luck, but in general, the lesser the time gap, the higher the price

Safar - The Journey To Shimla - Jakhu Temple of Lord Hanuman

“One place where you can enjoy holiness and divine blessings, peacefully surrounded by beautiful nature...., ”I will say this, if I had to explain the beauty of Jakhu ( Jakhoo) temple of lord Hanuman in Shimla. 

Nestled on the top most hill of Shimla, Jakhu temple of Lord Hanuman, is a beautiful temple situated in the lap of cedar trees. With beautiful desgin & architecture the temple attracts you like a magnet.

The Story of Jakhu Temple : 

It is said that, the hill is here even before the time of Lord Rama. 

On the way to bring Sanjivani Buti, Lord Hanuman had steped here to take momentary rest and bless Saint YAKSH ( यक्ष ). In the name of Saint YAKHS, the hill was named यक्ष , then which with passes of time, turned to Jakhoo. 

यक्ष  - यख - जख - जाखू  

( In some places of India, य is read as ज , thats how it transformed from यख to जख ) 

It is also said that, when lord Hanuman landed on the top, the impact was so strong that, half of the hill went into the Earth.  All the story in detail has been inscribed there on marble stone. 

With 108 feet tall statue of Lord Hanuman built with every details will leave you in awe. It is visible from almost everywhere in Shimla. The temple has aproxx 75 stairs, with Hanuman Chalisa written on it. 

How to reach : 

Situated on the highest peak of Jakhoo Hill, it is connected to The Ridge, via beautiful steep path and can be reached by walking or by car. If you are new to driving, you need to be extremely careful at sharp curves and narrow roads. You can also hire a cab costing somewhere between Rs.250 to Rs.300. Once up there,you will be welcomed by scores of monkeys.... alot of monkeys.

Beware of Monkeys : 

The moment you will step out of car, you will feel as if you have entered into The Monkey Kingdom. Monkeys and monkeys and monkeys everywhere, so naughty that can snatch anything from you including your wallet, purse, goggles and even specs. 

If you are not careful with monkeys, the experience can be a little bitter. 

TIP : Do carry some eatables ( hidden ) for scenarios if monkeys snatch something. Offer it as exchange, not always but works most of the time. 

However, Jakhu temple gives a beautiful view of the valley. This well maintained, clean, colorful, full of beautiful flowers, amazing and ancient temple is a must visit if you are visiting Shimla. 

- Alok Kumar Upadhayay

- Safar - The Journey

Safar - The Journey To Shimla, Kalka to Shimla Train Journey

If you are a traveler and a nature lover, then I would recommend you to visit Shimla in rainy season with the great heritage railway journey. It will not only take you to back in time but will leave you wrapped in a lot of wonderful experience and the golden memories. Its an amazing journey which you can experience only by doing it.

The History and Heritage : 

When the British made Shimla, the Summer Capital of India in 1864, they built Kalka - Shimla railway track to commute. The Chief Engineer of the project was H.S. Herlington. It opened for traffic in 1903, inaugurated by Viceroy of India Lord Curzon. 

Now, awarded by UNESCO in 2008, as a one of the great heritage railway journey, Kalka - Shimla Railway Journey is one of the best  journeys in world to enjoy beauty of nature, offering the most scenic train journeys in India and enlivening passengers as it gradually winds its way steeply upwards along the narrow track, through rugged mountains and pine forests.

The Kalka - Shimla Railway Route 

The Kalka - Shimla rail route is a 96 kilometers long journey, having 20 railway stations, 103 tunnels, 864 bridges, and 919 curves out of which most are having curve of more then 48 Degrees. 

The longest tunnel, tunnel umber 33, 1143.61m long, is near the main railway station at Barog. 

The Second longest tunnel is KOTI tunnel, 693.72m long. 

Tunnel and Station Barog has been named after Engineer Colonel Barog, who dug the tunnel from both ends and could not align them and was symbolically fined one rupee. He couldn't live with the shame and committed suicide inside the incomplete tunnel. Later Chief Engineer H.S. Herlington completed the tunnel with help from Bhalku, a local saint. Read the details about Barog here. 

The route is most spectacular scenery offering a lot of opportunities for nature photography. 

Clik here to see The Journey from Kalka to Shimla in Toy Train in Images. 

The Journey From Kalka to Shimla in Shivalik Express : 

We had boarded the Shivalik Express from Kalka for our journey upto Shimla. The train's speed is greatly restricted by the steep gradient that it has to climb, but this allows for plenty of fascinating sightseeing along the way. It was raining at some tunnels and due to it, views were more beautiful in its true colors. It was like train had brought us to heavenly beautiful scenic views. With such a beauty of nature, at some points I wanted it to be a never ending journey.  

Other train services from Kalka to Shimla: 

We got our tickets in Shivalik Express, beacuse we wanted to enjoy the early morning views, which is recommended. though there are other train services too. You can choose one of these as per your comfort and schedule.  

KLK SML PASS ( Train No - 52457)

RAIL MOTOR ( Train No - 72451 ) 

KALKA SIMLA EXP ( Train No - 52453) 

HIMALYAN QUEEN ( Train No - 52455) 

All the trains take approx 5-6 hours to cover the journey. Click here for more details. 

- Safar The Journey

Alok Upadhayay