Palampur

Palampur is the tea capital of northwest India. Set on the rising slopes of Kangra Valley before they merge with the Dauladhar ranges. But tea is just one aspect that makes Palampur a special resort. Abundance of water and proximity to the mountains has endowed it with mild climate. The town has derived its name from the local word "pulum', meaning lots of water. Palampur was a part of the local Sikh kingdom and later on came under the British rule.
 

The place enjoys a healthy climate and the pine scented air is said to have curative properties. The scenery presents a sublime and beautiful contrast- the plain presents a picture of rural loveliness and repose, while the hills are majestic. Behind this town stands the high ranges of Dhauladhar Mountains, whose peaks remain, covered for most part of the year. Situated in and about the middle of the Kangra Valley, it is convenient base to explore the surroundings. 

This hill station is not only known for its numerous tea gardens and paddy fields but it also known for its colonial architecture and temples. Palampur and places around it are popular for adventure sports like hang-gliding and trekking.

Prime Attractions of Palampur

Taragarh Palace Hotel

Now called Taragarh after Maharani Tara Devi, of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, who became its subsequent owners, this is a splendid art-deco mansion set amidst large grounds.

Al-Hilal

A few kilometres from the city of Palampur is Al-Hilal, a place of unparalleled charm. During the conquests of Kangra by Maharaja Renjit Singh, this place was a military bastion.

Andretta

The charming village, spread below thethickly wooded hill and sprawling plains of the Kangra Valley was once the home of the famous painter Sardar Sobha Singh and the playwright Ms Norah Richards. Now Andretta is a centre for various artistic activities such as pottery and is just 13-km away from Palampur.

Baijnath

One of the most remarkable monuments of the Beas Valley is the temple of Baijnath. The village of Baijnath is situated 23-miles east of Nagarkot,

Bir and Billing Sheltered by the mountains and surrounded by tea gardens, Bir serves as a landing ground for hang & para gliders as well as known for it's Buddhist monasteries and Tibetan handicrafts. One of the best aero-sports sites in the world, Billing is 14-km from Bir. The mountain ranges set like an amphitheatre, offer opportunities for high altitude and cross-country flying for more than 200-km.

Neughal Khad

Close to the temple of Bundelmata temple, is this 300-metre-wide chasm through which the Neugal stream flows.

Tea Factory

The cooperative society tea factory provides an insight to the processing of Kangra Tea.

Temple of Bundelmata

Walk through tea gardens and open fields or drive to reach this temple built about five centuries ago.

Excursions from Palampur

 

Chamunda Devi Temple

(25Km.)
Not far from Dharamsala is the famous temple of Chamunda Devi. It is an enchanting spot with glorious views of the mountains, the Baner Khud, Pathiar and Lahla forests. 15-km from Dharamshala a tiny village of Dadh on Palampur road is the famous temple dedicated to Goddess Chamunda Devi. 

Gopalpur: Palampur

(13Km.)
Situated 13-km away from the town, Gopalpur consists of a mini zoo.

Fairs & Festivals - Palampur

Holi: In the month of March, Holi's riot of colours and celebration of spring comes with laughter and vitality. There are exuberant celebrations at Palampur and Sujanpur.

How To Get There - Palampur

 

By Road

Palampur does not have an airport or railway station. The nearest railway station is at Maranda, which is 2-km from Palampur and on the narrow-gauge line between Pathankot and Joginder Nagar. The main bus station is located 1-km south of the main Bazaar. There is frequent bus service from Palampur to Dharamshala, Mandi, and Pathankot. Travelers can also make use of taxis to travel to these towns from Palampur.

Climate - Palampur

The weather in Palampur is moderate. Summers are mild and winters are cold but pleasant. It experiences southwestern monsoon rains in July-September.

General Information - Palampur

 

Location

Himachal Pradesh 

Altitude

1,220m 

Best Time

March to June and mid-September to November.

Useful Information - Palampur

 

Recreation Centers

Neugal Khad, Andretta, Tea Factory