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India.com
16-05-2025
- India.com
Scenic Road Trips From Chandigarh That Are Perfect For Weekend Getaways
The planned design of Chandigarh combined with its living culture functions as a starting point to discover North India's most beautiful road travel destinations. The city grants its residents access to many wonderful destinations where they can explore hill stations, adventure zones and cultural attractions throughout weekends. Seven outstanding road journeys await adventurers at this destination to experience adventure and relaxation and behold spectacular natural views. 1. Shimla: The Evergreen Hill Station Distance: 113 km | Travel Time: 3-4 hours Shimla stands as a timeless option for road travelers leaving from Chandigarh while leading Himachal Pradesh as its capital. Drivers who choose NH5 to reach Shimla will experience extraordinary views of verdant mountainscape along their way. Visitors can sightsee colonial styles of architecture and explore both the lively Mall Road and Kufri and Jakhoo Temple spots. Visitors can always find thrilling activities for both shopping and scenic rides when they visit Shimla. Visitors should plan their travel for summer to experience nice weather or winter to see expert white terrain coverage. 2. Kasauli: A Tranquil Retreat Distance: 57 km | Travel Time: 1.5-2 hours A short and relaxing vacation experience exists in the appealing destination of Kasauli. Kasauli operates as a small Himachal Pradesh town with its historical British architecture integrated with natural forests and traditional charm from past decades. The road features short distances among pine forests that create a scenic view with cedar trees. The main attractions in Gilbert Trail and Monkey Point and Christ Church should not be missed. People seeking peaceful relaxation during weekends choose Kasauli as their destination away from busy city life. 3. Manali: Adventure and Serenity Combined Distance: 290 km | Travel Time: 7-8 hours For those seeking a rewarding extended driving experience Manali stands as the best destination choice. The drive passes through Mandi and Kullu so travelers can admire both the Beas River and the Himalayan foothills. The popular adventure sports available in Solang Valley can be experienced followed by a pilgrimage visit to the Hidimba Devi Temple in Manali. Visitors should make Rohtang Pass their priority stop since it attracts snow enthusiasts. Manali attracts visitors who want thrilling experiences together with those who desire peaceful relaxation. 4. Dharamshala and McLeodganj: The Tibetan Experience Distance: 240 km | Travel Time: 6-7 hours The Kangra Valley-area towns of Dharamshala and McLeodganj create the ideal setting that mixes mountain surroundings with Buddhist traditions and contemplative spaces. From Chandigarh the mountain views open up gradually while the journey passes by attractive communities. The pilgrimage sites in McLeodganj include the Dalai Lama Temple and Bhagsu Waterfall together with the Tibetan market. Trekking enthusiasts prefer Triund Trek because it provides extraordinary sightlines of the Dhauladhar mountain chain. Visitors remember this road trip because of its peaceful monasteries and serene natural setting. 5. Lansdowne: A Hidden Gem in Uttarakhand Distance: 255 km | Travel Time: 6-7 hours People seeking a non-typical vacation destination should explore Lansdowne within Uttarakhand's borders which operates as a secluded haven. A small Indian town managed by the Garhwal Rifles of the Indian Army maintains this peaceful location which stays free from development. The automobile journey leads travelers past beautiful forests along with scenic valley landscapes. Visitors should prioritize seeing three special locations of Bhulla Lake, St. Mary's Church, and Tip-in-Top viewpoint. Peaceful weekend seekers will find perfect harmony in Lansdowne thanks to its unique blend of solitude and unspoiled natural beauty which deviates from other packed hill stations. 6. Rishikesh: The Adventure Capital of India Distance: 200 km | Travel Time: 5-6 hours Rishikesh stands as the most optimal option for road travelers seeking adventure experiences. Beyond its reputation as a world center for yoga practices Rishikesh delivers numerous touring opportunities. A passenger can see the beautiful scenery of Uttarakhand while traveling from Chandigarh along the Ganga River routes. North Indian travelers explore Rishikesh specifically for its rafting courses and bungee jumping facilities as well as jumping from cliffs. Three main attractions include Laxman Jhula together with Triveni Ghat and Beatles Ashram. Silver Bank serves as both an adventure destination and spiritual haven so Rishikesh welcomes people of all types. 7. Jim Corbett National Park: A Wildlife Adventure Distance: 280 km | Travel Time: 7-8 hours Those who appreciate nature together with wildlife can find great joy in driving to Jim Corbett National Park. The oldest national park of India was founded in 1936 and preserves the magnificent Bengal tiger as its main resident. Scenic views of Uttarakhand accompany the vehicle journey between Chandigarh and different settlements. Travelers should start their park experience with a jeeping tour at sunrise to see elephants and deer together with leopards and numerous fowl species. Put nature lovers together with adventure seekers then Jim Corbett emerges as an outstanding weekend vacation spot. Why Choose These Road Trips? Tourists find satisfying experiences at destinations which combine thrilling outdoor activities with restful moments and breathtaking landscapes. Each trip between Manali and Rishikesh brings its own distinct charm starting from the snowy mountain peaks to the spiritual tranquility. These highway drives become memorable experiences because of their excellent maintenance levels and beautiful routes. Tips for a Perfect Road Trip Travelling at an early hour helps both you avoid congestion and maintain a peaceful driving experience. The vehicle needs to be checked thoroughly for proper condition before departure and you should always carry emergency tools such as spare tires along with sufficient fuel reserves. Pack essentials: Carry snacks, water, first-aid kits, and necessary documents. Check weather predictions in advance because selected destinations are prone to heavy snowfalls or rainy conditions. Finding early accommodations is essential in destinations which become highly visited before booking becomes difficult. Follow environmental best practices while you support local customs during your travel period in the destination area. Conclusion Chandigarh functions as a convenient access point leading visitors to various spectacular travel sites in North Indian lands. These picturesque route options will provide memorable weekend getaways because you can pick between visiting Kasauli for a quick escape or experiencing adventure at Jim Corbett. Start your vehicle and get your travel equipment before embarking on the road for a remarkable trip.
News18
22-04-2025
- News18
Rock Climbing To Mountain Biking: 7 Adventure Sports To Try In Himachal Pradesh This Summer
Last Updated: With its rich and diverse geography, Himachal Pradesh offers numerous adventure sports opportunities to its tourists. With the summer season in full swing, Himachal Pradesh is one of the most sought-after holiday spots in the country. From lush valleys to majestic snow-capped mountains to intricate river systems, the mountainous state has a lot to offer to its tourists. This rich geography allows tourists to explore a variety of adventure sports. In case you are travelling to Himachal Pradesh this summer season, take a look at these top seven adventure sports that you must try to elevate your summer getaway to the next level. Paragliding in Bir Billing If soaring above lush valleys and majestic mountains sounds like your kind of thrill, Bir Billing should top your list. Known as the paragliding capital of India—and among the best spots in the world—Bir offers an unforgettable aerial experience. River Rafting in Kullu-Manali For those who love the rush of rapids, white-water rafting in the Beas River is an absolute must. Surrounded by tall deodar trees and dramatic mountain scenery, the icy waters of the Beas provide the perfect blend of challenge and beauty. Summer (April to June) is ideal when the river is energetic but manageable. Most rafting tours also include a short training and safety briefing as well. Trekking to Triund, Hampta Pass, or Bhrigu Lake If you're a beginner, start with the Triund Trek near McLeod Ganj—an easy 4-5 hour trail that rewards you with panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range. For those looking to level up, the Hampta Pass Trek takes you across lush green valleys, glacial rivers, and into the stark beauty of Lahaul. Prefer a scenic lake trek? Try Bhrigu Lake, a high-altitude alpine lake that reflects the sky like a mirror. If you're dreaming of stargazing under a sky so clear you can see the Milky Way, camping in Spiti Valley is a must. This high-altitude desert, often called Little Tibet, offers otherworldly landscapes, ancient monasteries, and surreal silence. Popular spots like Chandratal Lake are perfect for camping, especially in summer when the roads open up. Trails around Solang Valley, Old Manali, and Naggar are perfect for downhill biking through pine forests, rocky paths, and village backroads. The varied terrain lets you choose between beginner-friendly routes and hardcore downhill tracks. Rentals and guided tours are easily available in Manali, making it super accessible. Rock Climbing and Rappelling in Dharamshala If you love scaling heights, try rock climbing and rappelling in Dharamshala or Vashisht near Manali. These activities are usually conducted on natural rock formations, offering a safe but challenging climb with expert supervision. Most adventure operators provide gear and beginner training, so you don't need prior experience. Zorbing and Ski-Lift Rides in Solang Valley While winter brings skiing and snowboarding, summer turns it into a playground of green meadows and fun activities. One highlight? Zorbing—where you roll downhill inside a giant transparent ball. You can also take ski-lift cable car rides to the top of the valley for jaw-dropping panoramic views. First Published:
Telegraph
04-04-2025
- Telegraph
British hiker killed after being struck by boulder on Himalayan trek
A hiker died after being struck by a boulder as he trekked with a friend in the Himalayas, a coroner has found. Data analyst Tom Howard, 27, and his friend Robert Emerton were making their way along a snowy route on India's Triund Trek on February 16 when he was hit in the chest and collapsed. Woking Coroner's Court heard that an 'extremely arduous' rescue mission ensued through difficult terrain, it 'covered several hours' and Mr Howard reached the hospital the next day. Scott McDonnell, the assistant coroner for Surrey, found on Friday that Mr Howard, of Weybridge, Surrey, died on February 17 as a result of a head injury and ruled that his death was accidental. A provisional post-mortem examination at a hospital in Dharamshala, India, on Feb 18 gave the cause of death as shock due to chest and abdomen trauma caused by blunt force impact, but a second examination on March 10 found a fracture to his skull. Mr Howard and his friend, who had been travelling overseas since December, saw various landmarks as they made their way along a 'well-trodden route' that was 'tough going', the court heard. In a statement from Mr Emerton, read out to the court, he said that he 'heard a yell from Tom behind [him]', between 4pm and 4.30pm. He turned around and saw his friend had lost his balance and appeared as though he had been hit by a dislodged boulder. Mr Emerton could see immediately that Mr Howard was 'trying to breathe' and was 'trying to speak but could not get anything out'. He called 999 hoping to get assistance but efforts to reach the emergency services were thwarted as he did not have a local contact number and had no signal. After this point, Mr Emerton said he 'made the choice to go for help'. His aim was to get to a village and call for a helicopter to help save his critically injured friend, the inquest heard. He added: 'I wrapped Tom with the clothes we had spare and told him what I was doing but he was not responding.' The route to find assistance was 'extremely treacherous' and included climbing down a cliff section and finding a way past a waterfall. He got to the village and returned with three local men at about 6pm. The court heard that Mr Emerton was 'extremely exhausted' by this time but noticed that his friend had not moved position, that he had a weak pulse and did not respond. Rescue teams arrived hours later but it was not possible to get a helicopter to the scene. The inquest heard the only option was to carry Mr Howard which meant moving 'incredibly slowly' and dealing with slippery rocks and tough conditions. Mr Emerton said they covered just 300-500 metres in three hours. At some point the next morning one of the team told him that 'Tom was gone', the inquest heard. They continued down the path and later that afternoon Mr Howard was placed in an ambulance and pronounced dead. The inquest was a documentary hearing, which Mr Howard's family and friends decided not to attend.
Yahoo
21-02-2025
- Yahoo
Pictured: Durham graduate, 27, killed while trekking in Himalayas
A Durham University graduate has been identified as the British tourist who died after falling in the Himalayas. Tom Howard, 27, died on Monday while on a mountain trek in India with his friend Robert Emerton, also 27. The pair were walking the 5.5-mile Triund Trek on Sunday when Mr Howard, a software engineer educated at fee-paying Cranleigh School in Surrey, suffered severe injuries in the fall. Mr Emerton, an auditor, walked for two-and-a-half hours to summon help from the nearby village of Thathri, on the outskirts of Dharamshala. A 10-man rescue team then found Mr Howard in 'a critical condition' before attempting to evacuate him to safety on a stretcher across 'challenging terrain', the state rescue service said. A spokesman said: 'He was secured to a stretcher and they began the challenging descent along with his co-trekker.' The rescuers did not reach Dharamshala until Monday afternoon, where Mr Howard was pronounced dead. A post-mortem examination conducted at a hospital in Dharamshala later revealed 'severe chest and abdomen injuries' and a lacerated liver, officials said. Dr Anuradha Sharma, the hospital's medical superintendent, said his fall 'must have been from a considerable height'. Kuldeep Singh, who was involved in the rescue operation, said earlier this week: 'His friend contacted some local villagers and they were able to guide us to the spot where he died. 'The rescuers walked for about 2.5 hours through the jungle to reach it. I think he was alive then. But by the time the second team got there to bring him down, he had died.' Mr Howard and Mr Emerton are thought to have met as undergraduates at St Mary's College, Durham, where they matriculated in 2015. Photos showed the pair enjoying formal dinners in black tie, while Mr Howard, a skilled sportsman, represented the university and his college at hockey. Before university, Mr Howard attended Cranleigh School, the public school where he was a prefect and earned four A-Levels. He then earned a second-class master's degree in natural sciences at Durham and joined London-based Quantexa, the financial security firm, after graduation. Mr Howard, originally from Weybridge, Surrey, was twice promoted and was a senior data engineer at the time of his death. It was reported that the state government had imposed a ban on high-altitude trekking during the winter of which the two tourists were unaware. A spokesman for the firm said: 'We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Tom Howard, who was a talented and valued colleague at Quantexa. 'Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.' A spokesman for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said: 'We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in India and are in contact with the local authorities.' Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
Telegraph
21-02-2025
- Telegraph
Pictured: Durham graduate, 27, killed while trekking in Himalayas
This is the Durham University graduate who died in the Himalayas after falling from a cliff on a mountain trek. Tom Howard, 27, died on Monday while travelling in India with his university friend Robert Emerton, also 27. The pair were walking the 5.5-mile Triund Trek on Sunday when Mr Howard, a software engineer educated at fee-paying Cranleigh School in Surrey, suffered severe injuries in the fall. Mr Emerton, an auditor, walked for two-and-a-half hours to summon help from the nearby village of Thathri, on the outskirts of Dharamshala. A 10-man rescue team then found Mr Howard in 'a critical condition' before attempting to evacuate him to safety on a stretcher across 'challenging terrain', the state rescue service said. A spokesman said: 'He was secured to a stretcher and they began the challenging descent along with his co-trekker.' The rescuers did not reach Dharamshala until Monday afternoon, where Mr Howard was pronounced dead. A post-mortem examination conducted at a hospital in Dharamshala later revealed 'severe chest and abdomen injuries' and a lacerated liver, officials said. Dr Anuradha Sharma, the hospital's medical superintendent, said his fall 'must have been from a considerable height'. Kuldeep Singh, who was involved in the rescue operation, said earlier this week: 'His friend contacted some local villagers and they were able to guide us to the spot where he died. 'The rescuers walked for about 2.5 hours through the jungle to reach it. I think he was alive then. But by the time the second team got there to bring him down, he had died.' Mr Howard and Mr Emerton are thought to have met as undergraduates at St Mary's College, Durham, where they matriculated in 2015. Photos showed the pair enjoying formal dinners in black tie, while Mr Howard, a skilled sportsman, represented the university and his college at hockey. Before university, Mr Howard attended Cranleigh School, the public school where he was a prefect and earned four A-Levels. He then earned a second-class master's degree in natural sciences at Durham and joined London-based Quantexa, the financial security firm, after graduation. Mr Howard, originally from Weybridge, Surrey, was twice promoted and was a senior data engineer at the time of his death. It was reported that the state government had imposed a ban on high-altitude trekking during the winter of which the two tourists were unaware. A spokesman for the firm said: 'We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Tom Howard, who was a talented and valued colleague at Quantexa. 'Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.' A spokesman for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said: 'We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in India and are in contact with the local authorities.'
