The term Palampur is formed from the combination of three words—pani (water), alam (environment or 'abode of') and pur (settlement). Thus, Palampur means "a settlement where there is plenty of rainfall".[1]
Palampur is located in the Kangra Valley and is a well-known hill station that was historically part of the Jalandhar kingdom. The town developed when William Jameson, the superintendent of the Saharanpur Botanical Gardens, introduced the tea bush from Almora in 1849. The tea bush flourished in Palampur's climatic conditions, attracting European tea estate owners. An exception was the Wah Tea Estate, which was owned by Nawab Muhammad Hayat Khan and his descendants until 1947.[8] Since then, Kangra tea from Palampur has gained international recognition.
Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of independent India, visited Palampur in 1941. In commemoration of this visit, there is a Nehru Chowk in the town.
Pre-independence
The expansion of tea estates starting from the mid-19th century led to the development of infrastructure in Palampur, including schools, colleges, and hospitals. The town also emerged as a hub for laborers involved in activities such as plucking, packing, and transporting tea leaves.
The earthquake of 1905 caused significant destruction in the region, prompting extensive reconstruction efforts. In 1927, a railway line was constructed for the hydro-electric project at Joginder Nagar. This development resulted in increased employment opportunities, fostering growth and investment in the area.
Palampur has a monsoonal-influenced humid subtropical climate (Cwa) with not so hot summers and cool winters. Late summer and early spring see massive amount of monsoonal rain.
As per the 2011 Indian Census, Palampur municipality had a total population of 3,543, of which 1,814 were males and 1,729 were females. It has a sex ratio of 953 females to 1000 males. Population within the age group of 0 to 6 years was 254. The total number of literates in Palampur was 3,004, which constituted 84.8% of the population with male literacy of 85.9% and female literacy of 83.6%. The effective literacy rate of 7+ population of Palampur was 91.3%, of which male literacy rate was 93.0% and female literacy rate was 89.6%. The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes population was 785 and 17 respectively. Palampur had 842 households in 2011.[5]
In 2020, after the creation of Palampur municipal corporation, it acquired the nearby panchayats and satellite areas, and the population was recounted to 40,385 after merging with the census figures taken in 2011.[4]
Government and politics
Civic administration
In 2020, after the formation of the Palampur municipal corporation, 15 wards were created by merging the satellite areas and 15 panchayats, increasing the total area to 14.96km2 (5.78sqmi) and a total population of 40,385, combining those of the merged areas.[4]
Politics
Palampur is a state legislative constituency in Himachal Pradesh. Lala Kanhiya Lal Butail, was the first representative of Palampur. Palampur is the hometown of the senior BJP leader and former Chief MinisterShanta Kumar. Congress and the Bhartiya Janata Party are the dominant political parties. BJP leaders from Palampur include Ch. Sarvan Kumar, Praveen Sharma and Shiv Kumar. For Congress, the Butail family has been significant. Kunj Behari Lal Butail served as an MLA for over a decade and was the first Pradesh Congress Committee President. The current MLA is Ashish Butail.[12] Palampur is also famous for BJP's 1989 Palampur resolution, in which BJP decided to go all out for Hinduism, especilly to rebuild Ram temple.
Snowy peaks of Dhauladhar mountain range in PalampurDhauladhar mountains in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh
Located behind the town are the imposing Dhauladhar mountains, characterized by their snow-capped peaks throughout most of the year. This area is being developed into a major tourist center, with plans for the construction of a ropeway and an amusement park underway. Nearby, an agricultural university is already operational, while an Ayurvedic hospital and an Ayurvedic medical college are located in Paprola, approximately 10 kilometers away. Palampur is also home to several operational tea factories, contributing to the region's reputation for its tea gardens in the Kangra valley.
The Neugal stream, located on the outskirts of Palampur, flows gently over stony ground far below the cliff, offering a picturesque setting for visitors. A popular trekking destination, Bundla Falls, cascades from a height of 100 meters and can be reached via a trekking route. Additionally, Saurabh Van Vihar, a recreational spot in Bundla, is named after Capt. Saurabh Kalia, a native of Palampur.
Palampur serves as the starting point for various trekking routes, particularly over the Dhauladhar Mountains towards districts such as Chamba and Kullu in Himachal Pradesh. Notable trekking routes include the Sanghar pass to Bharmaur via Holi, the Thamsar Pass from Billing to Manali via Bara Bhangal, the Jalsu pass from Baijnath to Bharmaur, and the forest trek from Mcleodganj to Triund. A four-day trek from Palampur leads to Holi via Waru La.
Billing, situated 28 kilometers from Palampur near Bir, is an important hub for paragliding. Paraglider pilots often land near Palampur after undertaking cross-country flights starting from Billing. Palampur is also home to numerous Buddhist monasteries, adding to its cultural richness and appeal.
Palampur is experiencing rapid development and offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors. The upper regions of Palampur receive heavy snowfall, offering opportunities for tourists to participate in winter sports or leisurely explore the tea gardens. Palampur has gained popularity as a filming location, with directors such as Imtiaz Ali and Lawrence D'Souza choosing the town for movie shoots. Additionally, plans for a ropeway across the Neugal river have been proposed, aiming to enhance the tourist appeal of the area.
Palampur is strategically located at the heart of several major tourist destinations, including Dharamshala to the west and Baijnath and Manali to the east. Visitors to Palampur have access to a range of accommodation options, including hotels, homestays, villas, and cottages, available at competitive prices. Additionally, the town boasts a variety of dining establishments in the main market area, offering a diverse selection of cuisines to cater to different tastes.
Some notable tourist attractions around Palampur include:
Saurabh Van Vihar (4 km from Palampur): It is a park established in memory of Late Capt. Saurabh Kalia, who sacrificed his life in the Kargil War. Managed by the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department, the Van Vihar serves as an educational site focusing on nature and environmental conservation. Spanning 35 acres, it offers serene surroundings amidst the Dhauladhar mountains, providing visitors with a peaceful retreat away from urban life. The park features a water pond with various fish species and offers boating facilities. Additionally, there is a designated children's park for younger visitors to enjoy.
Birni Devi Temple: Situated at an altitude of 2240 meters, offers a manageable day trek for visitors. Local residents along the route provide guidance through the forested path leading to the Birni top. The trek typically begins from Jakhani Mata temple, accessible by car, marking the starting point for the journey to Birni Mata.[13]
Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir (20 km from Palampur): It is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Chamunda. Drawing thousands of devotees from various parts of India, the temple serves as a revered site for offering prayers and seeking blessings.
Bir and Billing (35 km from Palampur): This a village renowned for its Buddhist monasteries, serves as a prominent landing site for hang gliding pilots. Surrounded by scenic tea gardens and nestled amidst low hills, Bir offers an ideal spot for paragliders to land. Visitors to Bir can explore its Buddhist monasteries and discover Tibetan handicrafts produced in the area. Billing, situated 14 kilometers from Bir, boasts a vast arena spanning 200 kilometers for high-altitude and cross-country flying, making it one of the premier aero sports destinations in the country.
Shiv Temple Baijnath
Baijnath (16km from Palampur): The Shiva temple at Baijnath stands out as a significant monument in the Kangra valley. Historically known as 'Kirgrama', the town derived its current name from Shiva Vaidyanatha. The temple features an 'Adytum' housing the Lingam, surrounded by a conical-shaped spire and a 'Mandap' covered with a low, pyramid-shaped roof. Intricate sculptures associated with Ravana, who is believed to have worshipped Shiva at this site, adorn the temple. The Shivratri festival at Baijnath attracts a considerable number of visitors, making it a notable event in the region.
Baijnath Shiva Temple: Built in the 12th century, is regarded as one of the oldest Shiva temples in existence.[14] Notable for its ancient architectural style and intricate craftsmanship, the temple reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region. Situated amidst pristine surroundings, the temple offers a serene atmosphere for visitors. It is located between the Kangra and Mandi districts of Himachal Pradesh, approximately 16 kilometers from Palampur.
Tashi Jong Buddhist Monastery: It is accessible from both Palampur and Baijnath, is a vibrant monastery featuring a meditation hall. Visitors can experience the monastery's colorful ambiance and may encounter Tibetan cuisine available on-site.[13]
Palampur Tea gardens
Palampur Tea Gardens: Palampur Tea Gardens are integral to the region's identity and economy. Palampur is also regarded as the Tea Capital of Northwestern India[10] and produces the famous "Kangra Tea". Established in 1849 by Jameson and British officers, these gardens have a rich heritage in tea cultivation. Despite facing challenges such as the 1905 Kangra earthquake, which affected their international market presence, these gardens continue to produce Kangra Tea, a local specialty. A tea processing factory in the area further supports the tea industry, highlighting its significance beyond tourism.
Neugal Khad (2km from Palampur): Neugal Khad provides a fine view of the Dhauladhar range. It is roaring in the rainy season and gurgling all year round. Himachal Tourism cafe provides food and a view from its restaurant. It is a picnic spot.
Bundla Stream (2km from Palampur): Known for its substantial width of over 100 meters, exhibits dramatic surges during the monsoon, accompanied by the thunderous sound of cascading water. The trek from Palampur to Bundla offers a chance to appreciate the natural surroundings, including the nearby tea gardens.
Bundla Tea Estate (2km from Palampur): It encompasses Bundla, Aima, and Lohna panchayats. It lies along the road between Neugal Café and the main town of Palampur. This estate features tea gardens that flourish with lush greenery, particularly during the monsoon season. Tea plucking activities are a common sight from April to October. The estate's historic complex, which has stood for over 200 years, can be spotted from the roadside.
Andretta (13km from Palampur): It is notable as the residence of the late artist Sardar Sobha Singh and the late playwright Norah Richards. Additionally, Sobha Singh's Art Gallery is situated in Andretta.
Gopalpur Zoo (14km from Palampur): Officially known as Dhauladhar Nature Park, is a zoological park established by the Himachal Pradesh government. It offers an array of animal species including lions, leopards, bears, and porcupines, making it an engaging destination for animal enthusiasts and families with children.[15]
Chamunda Devi Temple[16] (21.2km from Palampur): It is dedicated to Chamunda Devi, a significant deity in Hindu mythology. Chamunda Devi is revered as a formidable manifestation of Devi, the Hindu Divine Mother, and is among the seven Matrikas, or mother goddesses. She is also associated with the Yoginis, a group of Tantric goddesses. The name "Chamunda" is derived from "Chanda" and "Munda," two demons whom Chamunda defeated. Often linked with goddesses like Parvati, Chandi, and Durga, Chamunda is depicted as dwelling in cremation grounds or under fig trees. Traditional worship of the goddess includes ritual animal sacrifices and offerings of wine, though in Jainism, where she is also venerated, offerings are strictly vegetarian. Chamunda Devi's worship originated in tribal traditions and later integrated into Hinduism and Jainism.
Jakhni Mata Mandir: The Jakhni Mata Temple is a Hindu temple situated in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India. Devoted to Mata Jakhni, it is positioned near the Birni Devi Temple at Chandpur Village, close to Palampur. According to local legend, the temple traces its origins back approximately 450 years when an image of Mata Jakhni was brought by a family belonging to the Gaddi Group from Bharmour, where a similar image is venerated.
Tulip Garden: The Tulip Garden, situated within the CSIR Institute in Palampur, is notable for its cultivation of tulip flowers, which thrive in the region's cold climate. Offering serene views of the Dhauladhar mountain range, the garden provides a tranquil escape within the institute's grounds.
Festivals
Sair is a traditional festival observed in the Kangra district, including Palampur, with significant enthusiasm among locals. It occurs on the first 'tithi' of the 'Chaitra mass' 'चैत्र मास' each year. Historically, Palampur's geography, characterized by rivers and frequent rainfall, posed challenges such as river floods before the construction of bridges and roads. Sair marks the onset of the rainy season and the transition from the black month. During the festival, people worship the Shair deity and offer new crops, fruits, and vegetables. They prepare various local dishes and invite friends and relatives to join the celebrations. Additionally, newlywed brides return to their in-laws' homes after spending a month with their parents. Children engage in traditional activities such as playing games with walnuts as part of the festivities.[17]
Lohri or Maghi, celebrated in mid-January, holds cultural significance as it marks the midpoint of winter and commemorates the final sowing of the Rabi crops. During this festival, the community gathers around bonfires, engaging in folk songs and traditional dances. Children often sing local folk songs known as 'lukdiyan' while going door to door. Additionally, a special sacrament called 'tilcholi' is prepared, consisting of roasted rice, sugar, and peanuts.
The Palampur Holi Fair takes place at the Capt. Vikram Batra Stadium, featuring various cultural activities. During the event, numerous singers perform, and there are also displays of tableaux representing different deities.
Gugga Navami is a local festival celebrated to honor Gugga Pir, a revered folk deity. People participate in processions, offer prayers, and perform traditional dances. The festival includes various cultural and religious activities, fostering community spirit.
Nag Panchami is a traditional festival dedicated to snake worship, observed in Palampur with reverence. People offer milk and flowers to snake idols and seek blessings for protection from snakebites and misfortunes.[9]
Kangra district is the most populous district of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Dharamshala is the administrative headquarters of the district.
Dhauladhar is a mountain range which is part of a lesser Himalayan chain of mountains. It rises from the Shivalik hills, to the north of Kangra and Mandi. Dharamsala, the headquarters of Kangra district and the winter capital of Himachal Pradesh, lies on its southern spur in the Kangra Valley. Chamba lies to the North of this range.
Kangra is a city and a municipal council in Kangra district in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is also known as Nagarkot.
Chintpurni is a small town in the Una district of Himachal Pradesh about 40 km north of Una, not far from the border with the Indian state of Punjab. The elevation is about 977 meters. It is home to the Maa Chintpurni Temple which is a major pilgrimage site as one of the Shakti Peethas in India. The Hindu genealogy registers at Chintpurni, Himachal Pradesh are kept here. North of Chintpurni are the western Himalayas. Chintpurni lies within the much lower Shiwalik range.
Kangra Valley is a river valley situated in the Western Himalayas. It lies in the state of Himachal Pradesh in India, and is a popular tourist destination. The Kangri language is spoken there. Dharamshala, the headquarters of Kangra district and the main city of the valley, lies on the southern spur of Dhauladhar.
Baijnath is a town in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is about 50 kilometers from district headquarters, Dharamshala. A temple of Lord Shiva (Baijnath) is situated there giving the town its name.
The Kangra Valley Railway is a 2 ft 6 in gauge railway that runs from Pathankot, Punjab to Jogindernagar in Himachal Pradesh. It runs through the sub-Himalayan region of Kangra Valley and is 164 km (101.9 mi) long. It is on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites tentative list. The railway is part of the Firozpur division of Northern Railway. It is the longest Narrow Gauge line in India and also the longest 2 ft 6 in Gauge Railway in the World. The highest point on this line is Ahju station at an elevation of 1,290 meters (4,230 ft). There are 33 stops and 950 bridges.
Shree Bajreshwari Mata Temple also known as Kangra Devi Mandir is a Hindu temple, one of the 51 Shakti Pithas dedicated to the goddess Vajreshvari, a form of Goddess Durga located in the town Kangra in the Northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The temple complex has several smaller temples dedicated to other Hindu deities. There is also a temple of Bhairava here. The temple is particularly famous for its Navratri festival, which is celebrated twice a year.
Bir Tibetan Colony is a Tibetan refugee settlement in the Himalayan village of Chowgan adjacent to the town of Bir, in the north Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It was established in the early 1960s by Chokling Rinpoche following the exile of the Dalai Lama and other refugees from Tibet.
Bir is a rural village located in the west of Joginder Nagar Valley in the state of Himachal Pradesh in northern India. It's the paragliding capital of India and the location of the Bir Tibetan Colony, founded in the early 1960s as a settlement for Tibetan refugees after the 1959 Tibetan uprising.
Kunj Behari Lal Butail was an Indian National Congress leader, and a leading tea grower from Palampur, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh.
Jawali (Jawāli) is a town in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh state in India. Old name of Jawali is Jawanwalashehar. Jawali is the second largest Assembly constituency in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is located 250 km distance from its State Capital, Shimla and is located 50 km distance from its District headquarters Dharamshala.
Maa Simsa Mandir or Simsa Mata Mandir is a Hindu temples located in the Mandi district and kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India. The temple is dedicated to the Sharada Devi. One temple is located in the Simsa village, 30 km from the Baijnath town and other one Simsa mata temple in Daroh village, 17 km from the Palampur. The temples are very popular among the people of the Kangra and Mandi district during the Navratri.
Maranda is a suburb in Palampur City on the Kangra district in Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, India. Dharamshala is the administrative headquarters of the Kangra district.
Aadi Himani Chamunda is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shri Chamunda Devi, situated in Chandar Bhan, Jia in Kangra Valley, Himachal Pradesh, India, in the Himalayas.
Gopalpur is a village in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India located near Palampur. There is also one branch school of the Tibetan Children's Village. Gopalpur is famous for Gopalpur zoo.
Tourism in Himachal Pradesh relates to tourism in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. This is popularly renowned for its Himalayan landscapes and popular hill-stations. Many outdoor activities such as rock climbing, mountain biking, paragliding, ice-skating, trekking, rafting, and heli-skiing are popular tourist attractions in Himachal Pradesh.
Kangra tea is a tea from the Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh, India. Both black tea and green tea have been produced in the Kangra Valley since the mid-19th century. Kangra tea was given the Geographical Indication status in 2005.
Pragpur is a village in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated in the shadows of Dhauladhar range and was developed about three centuries ago. Pragpur, along with the nearby village of Garli, is notified as a "Heritage Village" by a State Government notification dated 9 December 1997. As per the constitution of India and Panchyati Raaj Act, Pragpur village is administrated by the sarpanch, who is the elected representative of the village.
Shri Chamunda Devi Temple also known as Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shri Chamunda Devi, a form of Goddess Durga, located at 19 km away from Palampur town in Dharamshala Tehsil of Kangra district of the Northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. This is one of the most prominent temples in Himachal Pradesh and one of the most popular all over India. It is believed that whatever vow is prayed here manifests in reality.
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