The Kangra valley of which Palampur (1219m) is a major station, was the Trigarta of old. It was one of the leading hill states and was once a part of the Kingdom of Jalandhra. In local parlance, the word for lots of water is " Pulum".

This is what has given Palampur its name and it is water that has given the valley so much of its character. Countries stream and brooks criss-cross the landscape and to this place and in their intricate mesh, hold tea gardens and rice fields. The town came into being when the tea bush was introduces in the 19th century and Palampur became focus for the planters. Kangra tea, with its center at Palampur, has been unemotionally acclaimed since then.

The further bless the area with remarkable natural beauty, the Dhauladhar ranges rise dramatically from the earth, just beyond Palampur. The town itself has some interesting colonial architecture and the area around is richly garnished with historical temples and forts and scores of picturesque hamlets.

How to Get There

The airport Gaggal (Kangra) is 37 km from Palampur. The broadguage railway station isat Pathankot which is 115 km from Palampur and the narrow gauge railway comes right upto Maranda, 4 km from the town. Taxis and uses are available at both places. By road Palampur is 545 km from Delhi.

Climate

In winter the temperature can get quite low and heavy woolens are requied. It is warm in summer and cottons are recommended.

Andretta (13 km) :
This has been the home of Artists Norah Richards, Sobha Singh and B.C. Sanyal. In Sobha Singh''s home, now a gallery, several of his notable works are displayed. There is also a pottery and crafts center at Andretta.

Baijnath (15km)
At the jewel-like temple of Baijnath, lord Shiva is reserved as Vaidyaanath - the lord of Physicians. With a wealth of intricate carvings and greatful proportions, this temple is a big draw for pilgrims and visitors. It is said that here, King Ravana Supplicated lord Shiva for the boon of immortality.

Tashijong
(42 km) There is a Tibetan monastery here.

Sujanpur Tira
(42 km) Built in 1758, the fortress of Tira has the remnants of old halls. Places and temples. The town of Sujanpur below the fort, has several old temples of which the narbadeshwar and Murli Manohar are exemplary.

Shopping :
Kangra tea, local handicrafts, Tibetan carpets and pullovers.

Adventure :
Several trek routes lead out of Palampur, especially over the Dhauladhar mountains towards Chamba. Some important ones are over the Sanghar Pass to Bharmour via Holi and from baijnath over the Jalsu Pass to Bharmour.