In 1925, the enterprising Raja Joginder Sen of Mandi created an elaborate hydel power scheme near the village of Sukrahatti which was then renamed Jogindernagar (1220m) after him. After tunnelling and piping the water over several kilometers from the river Uhl to Jogindernagar, the Shanan Power House was built by a team of engineers headed by Col. Battye. Later, the HP State Electricity Board added another set of turbines at nearby Bassi.

How to Get There

Jogindernagar is the terminal of the narrow gauge rail track from Pathankot. It is 65 km by road from Kangra and 55 km from Mandi. The nearest airports are at Gaggal (Kangra) and at Bhunter near Kullu at distance of 110km. Taxis and buses to Jogindernagar are available at all major stations.

Climate

In winter, the temperature can hover just above freezing point when heavy woollens are required. During summer, the climate is mild and light woollens/cottons are recommended.

Places of Interest in and Around Jogindar Nagar

Macchyal Lake :
6 km from the Hotel Uhl is this small but enchanting lake held sacred to Machendru Devta.

Bassi Power House:
6 km from the hotel, this forms the second phase of the Jogindernagar power generation scheme. It is attracting picnic spot.

Bir :
16 km from Jogindernagar, this is to Tibetan settlement with a beautiful monastery. Famous for Hong Gliding.

Baijnath (1250m):
20 km from Jogindernagar. This is an exquisite temple where Lord Shiva is worshipped as Vaidyanath. 'The Lord of Physicians'. The original temple was built in 804 A.D. Here King Ravana is said to have supplicated Lord Shiva for the boon of immortatity.

Jhatingri (2012m):
12 km from Jogindernagar this is an enchanting spot, surrounded by thick deodar forest. The ruins of the summer palace of the Mandi rulers is located here.

Barot (2000m) :
40 km by road from Jogindernagar and 12 km by the haulage trolley, Barot packs an enormous range of out door activity. The reservoir of the power project is located here, and a Trout Breeding Centre-making it a wonderful place of angling. Across the river Uhl is the Nargu wild life sanctuary home to the Ghoral, Himalayan Black Bear and a variety peasants.