Kharapathar
Kharapathar
Height 2673 m. Kharapathar stands in the midst of an area covered with thick forests of Himalayan cedar (deodar) and apple orchards. This little village is on the highway that leads to Jubbal, Hatkoti and Rohru and commands a majestic view of the deep valley.
At different points of year, it unfolds a varied beauty-in spring the apple blossoms are out in strength, summer has the area filled with flowers and activity, during the monsoons the mists weave patterns across the hills and valleys and winter holds a
calm repose. A place that gives expression to the phrase of ‘time standing still‘, Kharapathar is a perfect leisure destination in the heart of nature’s generous blessings to the area. Lush forests, wide views, excellent walk and hike trails and the
charm of apple orchards make this a perfect leisure destination that is easily accessible by a short drive from Shimla.
GETTING THERE :
- By Road : Kharapathar is connected by road and is 82 km
jtirom Shimla. Regular bus services are available from Shimla
as are taxis. - By Raill /Air : Shimla also has the closest railway station (84
jkm) and airport (104 km) to Rohru. The closest broad gauge
railhead is 202 km away at Kalka.
CLIMATE:
Summers are pleasant and light woollens and cottons are suggested. Winter can be cold and the temperature can touch feezing point; heavy clothing is required.
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TOURIST ATTRACTIONS :
The area is covered with apple orchards and forests and there are numerous hiking trails.
- Giri Ganga (2,745 m) :A 7 kms enjoyable hike that passes through thick deodar woods leads to the source of this river (also called the Giri) that rises just below the Kuppar peak. The river pours its waters into the mighty Yamuna and there is a small shrine at the spot.
- Kotkhai lies 24 km short of Kharapathar and is one of Himachal’s important apple growing areas.
- Jubbal (1892 m, 9 km) was the seat of an important princely state with the same name. The palace is a fascinating structure that combines indigenous and European building styles.
- Hatkoti (1400 m, 29 km). On the right bank of the river Pabbar, the classical temples of Hatkoti, executed in the nagara style are a major attraction. The primary temple is that of Devi Durga in her form of Mahishasuramardini, the
slayer of the demon Mahisa who stalked the world in the form of a buffalo and the Devi is locally known as ‘Hateshwari’. - Rohru town (1550 m, 40 km) lies by the banks of the river Pabbar and is the largest settlement of the valley.This has the temple of Shikhru Devta and is highly venerated. Past Rohru, trout fishing is available on the Pabbar and good spots are Seema, Sandasu, Tikri and Dhamwari. Rohru has the HPTDC Hotel Chanshal. Chhaupari, past Rohru, is scenically attractive place. This is a secluded spot and has a long ridge that holds a small
temple. The view from this point is magnificent and there is a grand display ofthe peaks of neighboring Uttranchal, as well as those of Kinnaur. - Dodra and Kwar the most remote but very beautiful places are separated by a few kilometers and are one of the most secluded pockets of the State.
HOTELS
THE GIRIGANGA RESORT – Deluxe Hotel
The Giriganga Resort is named after the sacred spot and the source of the river Giri Ganga that lies 7 km above Kharapathar.
ADDRESS : The Giriganga Resort, Kharapathar,
Distt. Shimla (HP) – 171205. Tel. : (01781) 251139.
E-mail : giriganga@hptdc.in