Places Visit In Palampur

Bajinath Temple,Palampur

The Baijnath Temple is located in Himachal Pradesh, India, and is over 1,000 years old. It was dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Baijnath Temple is a revered shrine of Himachal Pradesh. Located at a distance of 16 kms from Palampur in the Beas valley, Baijnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to the inscriptions on the walls, Baijnath Mandir was built by the two native merchants by the name of Ahuka and Manyuka in 1204 A.D. In the porch of the temple, the two long inscriptions state that before the present temple, there was a shrine of Lord Shiva at the same spot.

The structure of this temple gives the hints of the early medieval North Indian style of architecture. This type of structure used to be known as 'Nagara' style of temple. The architectural style has been imbibed from Orissan style, which is very much unique in the state of Himachal Pradesh. The exterior walls of the temple have numerous alcoves with images of gods and Goddesses from the Hindu pantheon.
In order to enter the temple, one has to cross the vestibule that has a large 'Mandap' in the centre and two huge balconies on either side. The temple has fortifications, leaving space for two entrances in the north and the south. Just before the Mandapa, there is small porch placed on four columns. Here, a huge image of Nandi (the bull of Lord Shiva) is placed. The door leading to the sanctum is speckled with many images of artistic nature.
Lord Shiva is commemorated here as Vaidyanath (the Lord of Physician) and is placed in the form of 'Lingam' (phallic form of Lord Shiva). The main sanctum comprises five projections on every side and a tall curved shikhar (spire). The history of Baijnath temple is inscribed on the stone slabs inside the complex. As per the beliefs, Ravana (King of Lanka) had worshipped Lord Shiva in this temple.

The water of this temple is believed to contain medicinal properties, which can cure diseases of people. Due to this reason too, Baijnath Temple receives thousands of people every year. Shivratri is the major festival that is observed at this temple with full gusto and fervor. Devotees visit the temple during this time to seek the blessings from the God.
Besides the shrine of Lord Shiva, there are many other small shrines dedicated to Gods and Goddesses. In the early 20th century, the temple was suffered from an earthquake. Raja Sansar Chand made an effort to renovate the temple after the calamity. The temple complex acquires lush green gardens, which makes a perfect foreground to the ancient and unique structure of this temple. Baijnath temple is considered as a part of Indian Heritage, so security arrangements are made here to avoid any unwanted element.

History

As far as the history is concerned, the temple has been in worship since 1204 AD. There is an amazing story about the temple. It is said that king Ravana had worshipped Lord Shiva in this temple and had sacrificed his head ten times at a place marked out in the temple. And people are still following the same traditions and it is said that during Dussehra, people here don't organize festivals as they keep away of celerbation of Dussehra. People here think that they can offend Lord Shiva to celebrate the death of his devotees.Constructed in the Shikhara style, the temple is located in a well maintained complex of gardens, lawns and pathways in a single walled courtyard. There are exquisitely carved floral patterns and images of deities at the outer walls of the temple. The sanctum of the temple is 8 feet square inside and 18 feet outside, crowned by a conical spire. The sanctum contains a linga called Vaidyanath. The main structure of the temple occupies a major portion inside the courtyard. Apart from having two noteworthy shrines, the temple also has two very attractive statues. These nicely carved statues present peculiar features of Lord Shiva's vehicle- Nandi Bull and a small human figure holding Nandi's tail.
The unique architecture of the temple based on Oriya pattern distinguishes the temple from others. With a pyramid shaped roof having a two and a half meters square from inside and 5 and a half meters from outside, the temple is marked for a rare expertise of the Kangra artesian.

Tea Garden,Palampur

Palampur boasts of being the 'Tea Capital of North-West India'. Tourists coming to Palampur can visit these gardens and marvel at the lush green beauty of this place and appreciate the efficient way in which these gardens are run.

The tea gardens appear on either side of the road well before you enter Palampur, giving you a sense of entering into a dreamland. Since Palampur is called the Tea Capital of northern India, it is famous for its lush tea gardens sprawling over vast acres of land. These splendid gardens are among the chief attractions of the hill-town.

Tea plantation was introduced in and around this area in the 19th century and since then Kangra Tea has become quite renowned. You can also visit the Palampur Co-operative Tea Factory Limited, which is located downhill from Palampur, slightly below the road to Dharamshala where at the site, one can witness, the entire process of plucking, picking and processing and the commercial production of tea.This modest little factory is a must visit and if you lose your way then just ask almost anybody walking on the road and they’ll guide you to it.

History

Tea plantations were introduced in Palampur and the enveloping areas in the 19th century and since then Kangra Tea has become quite famous throughout the world. Visiting the site, tea gardens appear on the either side of the road much before one enters Palampur, making the journey full of alluring views and of cool and salubrious atmosphere. Palampur Cooperative Tea Factory is located on the road downhill to Palampur, slightly below the road leading to Dharamshala. At the site, one can witness in front of them, the entire process of plucking, picking and processing of tea leaves and the process of its commercial production. Palampur Cooperative Tea Factory is run and managed under the guidance of Tea Board of India and produces nearly 4,000 tons of tea every day between the months of April and November. Visiting the factory becomes quite a learning experience for a traveler who can ask anyone working there to explain the amazing tea making process. The premises, though overall a small structure is popular in the area and is easily locatable for the one walking down the nearby road. One can also collect a perfect tea souvenir as their memory of visiting the site, from the sales counter.

Tea Gardens are among the chief attractions of the hill-tow, due to which it is also referred as 'Tea Capital of Northwest India'. The hill station has lush tea gardens sprawling over vast acres of land. Tea plantation was introduced in the region during the middle of the 19th century by Dr. Jameson, Superintendent Botanical Gardens, North-West Frontier Province.
Due to this, Palampur progressed as tea plantation site and found a place in the international map by 1883 when 'Kangra Tea' became renowned. Several regions in and around Palampur have tea plantations. . Tea of the region is marketed under the brand names such as Darbari, Bageshwari, Bahar and Malhar. All the brands are named after ragas of Indian classical music.

Tea Gardens are among the chief attractions of the hill-tow, due to which it is also referred as 'Tea Capital of Northwest India'. The hill station has lush tea gardens sprawling over vast acres of land. Tea plantation was introduced in the region during the middle of the 19th century by Dr. Jameson, Superintendent Botanical Gardens, North-West Frontier Province
Due to this, Palampur progressed as tea plantation site and found a place in the international map by 1883 when 'Kangra Tea' became renowned. Several regions in and around Palampur have tea plantations. . Tea of the region is marketed under the brand names such as Darbari, Bageshwari, Bahar and Malhar. All the brands are named after ragas of Indian classical music.

Chamunda Devi Temple,Palampur

Chamunda Devi Temple is a renowned holy shrine of the Hindus. Located in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, Chamunda Devi Mandir is at a distance of 10 kms from Palampur, on the banks of Baner River. This ancient temple dates back to the 16th century.

The temple is dedicated to Chamunda Devi, who is a form of Durga / Shakti. Chamunda Devi Mandir is believed to be the abode of 'Shiva and Shakti'. Due to this reason, it is also known as 'Chamunda Nandikeshwar Dham'.
Chamunda Devi is considered as the wrathful form of Durga, but at the same time, the Goddess is kind to her true devotees. The term 'Chamunda' has been derived from two words, 'Chanda' and 'Munda'. As per the mythological legends, Durga made a goddess with her power, to slay the demons, Chanda and Munda. With her immense power, the Goddess killed the demons. Goddess Durga became happy with the slaughter and blessed the goddess that she would be known and worshipped as Chamunda.

There is nothing extra-ordinary about the architecture of this temple, but the divine aura spell bounds the devotees with its spiritual appeal. In the temple, the main image is visible from the main entrance. The main shrine is adored by the images of Lord Bhairav and Lord Hanuman on its sides. Actually, these lords are considered as the guards of the Goddess. The main image of the Goddess is visible draped in rich clothes.
Chamunda Devi is worshipped daily while the sermons include 'Aartis' at intervals. Reciting the hymn of 'Shat Chandi' with devoted heart at this temple is considered auspicious. In the corner of the temple, one can see small footsteps of the Goddess on a stone. Besides the main shrine, there is a marble staircase that takes down to the cave of Lord Shiva. This is a cave-like scoop where Shiva Lingam is placed. People visit this cave and worship Lord Shiva with great devotion.
The beautiful shrine in the midst of mountains, rivers and forests’ is believed to be dating back to 700 years. Goddess Chamunda, a manifestation of Goddess Durga is kept under cover due to it’s religious significance. Chamunda Devi Temple complex features a Kund (a pond), which is believed to have sacred water.Besides, there is a cave-like scoop on the back side of the sanctum which represents Shivalingam. Paintings of several Gods and Goddesses located in the temple complex draws attention of the tourists.

History

Around 400 years ago, a King and a Brahmin priest prayed to Chamunda Devi asking her consent to shift the image to an accessible location. Chamunda Devi appeared in a dream to the priest granting him the permission. She asked him to dig a certain area and subsequently, they will find an ancient idol. They can brought the idol in the temple and worship her. The priest told about the dream to the King and sent his men to bring the idol. The men got the idol, but they could not lift it.
Again, the Goddess appeared and asked the priest that the men could not lift the idol because they took it as an ordinary stone. She told the priest to get up early in the morning and take a bath. After wearing fresh clothes, he should go to the place in a devoted manner. The priest did the same what was told to him. He found that he could lift the idol easily. He placed the idol in its present location and from that time, the Goddess is worshipped by people.

Saurabh Van Vihar, Palampur

Saurabh Van Vihar is a beautiful garden in the Palampur town, named after valiant Army officer, Captain Saurabh Kalia. The garden managed by the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department is situated in proximity to Neugal.

There are over 151 species of herbs along with medicinal plants in the complex. Saurabh Van Vihar is spread over an area of 35 acres, which houses Picnic Sheds, Children Park, Water streams, Health trails, Open Air Theatre, Bamboosetum and Tiger Hill Bridge.

Saurabh Van Vihar is named after Captain Saurabh Kalia, a Kargil Shaheed. Situated in Neugal near Palampur (2 km away), it is managed by the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department. The park has been established to enable the visitors to enjoy the nature and make them aware of the importance of nature and environment.
Bounded by majestic and picturesque Dhauladhar mountain ranges the park encompasses Picnic Sheds, Water bodies, Health trails, Open Air Theatre, Bambusetum, Tiger Hill Bridge, shrubs and 151 species of herbs/medicinal plants.

In order to enable the visitors to enjoy the nature & make them aware of the importance of nature & environment, a nature park namely "Saurabh Van Vihar" at Palampur over 13 hactare area has been established. It is located on the right bank of Neugal Khad near Kandi bridge in the lap of Dhauladhar ranges, in village Kwat, 4 km from Palampur town. Saurabh Van Vihar is developed in the memory of Martyr Lt. Saurabh Kalia, who sacrificed his life during Kargil operation on 9th June, 1999. This tourist park is bounded by majestic and picturesque Dhauladhar mountain ranges in the north and north-east. It is being managed by H.P. Forest Department through a registered society called "Saurabh Van Vihar Management Society, Palampur
This is a nature park dedicated to the Captain of Indian army named Saurabh Kalla who lost his life in the year 1999 during the Kargil War. He is also said to have had to tolerate a lot of torture by the Pakistani army for over 20 days. The park is a symbol of honour for all the brave hearts who had to lay their lives in wars to protect their countries. This park is known for the lovely greenery, shady trees and a lot of variety in terms of flora and fauna. Bird Watching is also an important activity to be enjoyed in this park. Overall, this park is one of the most popular tourist attraction of Palampur.

Nevgal Khad, Palampur

Nevgal Khad, situated at a distance of 2 km from the main city, is one of the noted tourist destinations of Palampur. Also, known as Bundla Chasm, its prime attraction is its 300 m wide stream. Apart from picnics, visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the place which includes a panoramic view of the Dhauladhar ranges surrounding the region. The monsoon season further enhances the beauty of the place. Because of this a large number of tourists visit this area during this period.

Nevgal Khad is one of the popular attractions of Palampur, located at a distance of approximately 2 km from the main town. The location is popularly known as Bundla Chasm.In addition, there is a stream 300 metres wide flowing through the region that besides being a picnic spot also offers scenic view of the snow covered Dhauladhar ranges. Stream surroundings become serene during monsoons.

Neugal Khad is a wide stream of water that flows close to Palampur. Also dubbed as Bundla Chasm, Neugal Khad is a popular picnic destination situated about 3 to 4 kms from Palampur. The panoramic view of the Dhauladhar Range from Neugal Khad is commendable; the mountains in a distance can be seen clad with snow; which makes the view even more pleasing. The major attraction apart from the stream is the massive iron bridge. Those interested in photography have the good opportunity to capture the beauty of this colossal bridge and the surrounding landscape. Apart from photography, walking along the pebbled path of Neugal Khad is ideal. A perfect place for day outing and family picnic, Neugal Khad is amongst the popular tourist attractions near Palampur.

A short distance from Neugal Khadd is Neugal Park, where there are couple of cafés and eateries. Visitors can request for a table outside and along with savouring the food or coffee can enjoy the panoramic view of the Dhauladhar Mountains.
Neugal Khad Palampur. ... Also dubbed as Bundla Chasm, Neugal Khad is a popular picnic destination situated about 3 to 4 kms from Palampur. The panoramic view of the Dhauladhar Range from Neugal Khad is commendable; the mountains in a distance can be seen clad with snow; which makes the view even more pleasing.Also known as Bundla Chasm, Neugal Khad is one of the most famous places to see in Palampur. It offers beautiful sight of the Dhauladhar ranges. It is the perfect place to spend evenings.

Neugal Khad is a wide stream of water that streams near Palampur. Likewise named as Bundla Chasm, Neugal Khad is a well known outing destination arranged around 3 to 4 kms from Palampur. The all encompassing perspective of the Dhauladhar Range from Neugal Khad is admirable; the mountains in a separation can be seen clad with snow; which makes the perspective much all the more satisfying. The significant fascination separated from the stream is the monstrous iron scaffold. Those inspired by photography have the great chance to catch the excellence of this enormous extension and the encompassing scene. Aside from photography, strolling along the pebbled way of Neugal Khad is perfect. A flawless spot for day excursion and family cookout, Neugal Khad is amongst the mainstream vacation spots close Palampur. A short separation from Neugal Khadd is Neugal Park, where there are couple of bistros and restaurants. Guests can ask for a table outside and alongside appreciating the sustenance or espresso can appreciate the all encompassing perspective of the Dhauladhar Mountains.Found only 2 kilometers from the town, this spot gives a fine perspective of the Dhauladhar Range, an impeccable getaway from the feverish and occupied calendar of every day life. Otherwise called the Bundla Chasm, it is a site of a 300 meter wide stream, where voyagers can appreciate picnicking. It is thundering in the stormy season and sputtering all the year round. The Neugal Cafe, otherwise called the Himachal Tourism Cafe, gives incredible nourishment and offers a fine perspective of the Dhauladhar Range and Neugal Khad. The Cafe is entirely acclaimed, particularly for its lip-smacking snacks.

Church of St. John, Palampur

Pykara is the name of a village and river 19 kilometres from Ooty in the Indian State of Tamil Nadu. The Pykara River is considered very sacred by the Todas.

It rises at Mukurthi peak, flows northwards, and then turns to the west after reaching the edge of the plateau.The river flows through Murkurti, Pykara and Glenmorgan dams, and forms part of an important hydro-electric power project.The river flows over a series of waterfalls, the last two of 55 metres (180 ft) and 61 metres (200 ft) being known as Pykara Falls. The falls are approximately 6 kilometres (4 mi) from the bridge on the main road. There is a forest rest house at Pykara. A boat house on the Pykara reservoir is an added attraction for tourists. Pykara boasts well-protected, fenced sholas, Toda settlements, large grassy meadows and good wildlife habitat. The Pykara Dam, falls and reservoir attract many tourists

Pykara features a subtropical highland climate (Cwb) under Köppen climate classification.Pykara,due to its location in the Nilgiris gets rain from both the monsoons.The wet season runs from April to December and the dry season from January to March.

Dam and power station

The dam is near the main Ooty–Gudalur road and includes a power station. One of the oldest power plants in south India, the Pykara station still functions, generating about 60 megawatts. The first unit of 6.65 MW was commissioned in October 1932. Sir C.P. Ramaswamy Aiyar, Diwan of Travancore, worked with the British regime in 1920s and 1930s in the setting up of the Pykara project. A team of engineers led by H.G.Howard, a chief engineer in the then electricity department, was responsible for carrying out the project.The Pykara Station, declared as a heritage plant in September 1997, triggered the establishment of more hydro-electric power stations in the state. Today, the Nilgiris district alone boasts hydro-electric stations with an aggregate installed capacity of 837 MW. Five decades after establishment of the old plant, the Electricity Board (EB) authorities came up with a plan for the Pykara Ultimate Stage Hydro Electric Plant (PUSHEP), containing three units of 50 MW each. The construction of an underground powerhouse, 17 tunnels and the hydraulic head of 1,039 metres (3,409 ft) are the special features of the new plant. According to the EB, the hydraulic head is the highest in Asia. The access to the powerhouse is a tunnel 1.5 kilometres (0.9 mi) long.
A boat house on the Pykara Reservoir is an added attraction for tourists. The boat house with restaurant is maintained by Tamil Nadu Tourism and Development Corporation. It consists of several boats and has motor boats which are allowed for 20 minutes and speed boats which are allowed for 10 minutes.

Pykara is the name of a village and river located 19 km from Ooty in the Indian State of Tamil Nadu. A boat house on the Pykara reservoir is an added attraction for tourists. Pykara boats of well protected fenced shoals. Pykara waterfalls flows through Murkurti, Pykara and Glen Morgan dams.

Sherbling, Palampur

Sherbling is a prominent tourist spot is Palampur renowned for its enormous Buddhist viharas or monasteries. Renowned Buddhist preacher, Tai Siti Rimpoche, chose this place, lying amidst majestic hills, as his abode.

Overview

Sherbling is a prominent tourist spot is Palampur renowned for its enormous Buddhist viharas or monasteries. Renowned Buddhist preacher, Tai Siti Rimpoche, chose this place, lying amidst majestic hills, as his abode. Sherbling houses a large stupa, a Buddhist religious monument, which is surrounded by lush green vegetation and picturesque woods.This place is visited by peace seekers as well as Buddhist pilgrims all the year round. The head monk of the place, the Rimpoche, greets his followers and blesses them with his holy sermons every afternoon.

With an already large number of monasteries in the region, the Sherbling Monastery in Palampur is popular for its massive statue of the Buddha. The grand stupas in the middle of the green forests make for an impressive and serene sight.

Another aspect of the monastery that makes it particularly popular is that it is the holy abode of Tai Siti Rimpoche, an extremely respected figure in the Buddhist sect.

When you go there, you should definitely try to attend the darshan between 2 pm to 4 pm every day, when the head monk addresses the audience with his holy sermons. The monastery is frequented by Buddhist pilgrims as well as tourists looking for peace and solace in the mountains.

History

Sherbling, one of the major highlights of Palampur, is popular for colossal Buddhist vicars and monastery. The Buddhist centre amidst the beautiful mountains was abode of Tai Siti Rimpoche, one of the well-known Buddhist preachers.

The large stupa enveloped in the lush green vegetation and woods draw attention of the tourists. Sherbling is visited by solace seekers and Buddhist pilgrims throughout the year. Rimpoche, the head monk, appears every afternoon for blessing his followers with his holy sermons.

Chauntra, Palampur

Chauntra is a small market town in the state of Himachal Pradesh in northern India located along National Highway 20 (Updated 154) which connects Pathankot (in Punjab) to Mandi.

Chauntra is a small market town in the state of Himachal Pradesh in northern India located along National Highway 20 (Updated 154) which connects Pathankot (in Punjab) to Mandi. It is also home to a Tibetan refugee community consisting of a settlement, several monasteries and two schools.It is an important developmental block of Mandi distt. Situated near to Joginder nagar this town is very much suitable for tea growing.

Chauntra is a Town in Chauntra Tehsil in Mandi District of Himachal Pradesh State, India. It is located 44 KM towards North from District head quarters Mandi. It is a Tehsil head quarter. Dhelu ( 4 KM ) , Menbharela ( 5 KM ) , Ahju ( 5 KM ) , Garoru ( 5 KM ) , Tikru ( 6 KM ) are the nearby Villages to Chauntra. Chauntra is surrounded by Baijnath Tehsil towards west , Panchrukhi Tehsil towards west , Lambagaon Tehsil towards west , Drang Tehsil towards East . Mandi , Hamirpur , Dharamsala , Sundarnagar are the nearby Cities to Chauntra. This Place is in the border of the Mandi District and Kangra District. Kangra District Baijnath is west towards this place .

History Or Geography

The town stands at an altitude of about 4,250 feet (1,300 m) above sea level and is lined by the Dhauladhar range in the north. The range includes the famous paragliding spot of Billing which has hosted several international paragliding competitions. A small river, Bajgad Khad, on the east side of the town originates from nearby Gunher in the north and runs south towards Bhaterh in the south.

The landscape slopes slightly to the south with terraced fields towards what is called Lower Chauntra (which includes small rural villages of Bhaterh and Sainthal). Another notable land feature is the tea field, which once covered a good portion of the area where the Tibetan settlement is now located, although only a small portion of it now remains.

Tibetan Community

The Tibetan refugees, mainly from the Kham region of Tibet, settled in Chauntra in the 1970s set up two small settlements, colloquially called 'Khang-sarma' and 'Khang-nyingma' (literally 'of new houses' and 'of old houses'). The original settlers consisted of about sixty families. The settlement at present has two Tibetan schools, Sambhota Chauntra and TCV Chauntra. In recent years, the settlement has seen the establishment of several monasteries such as Bhumang Jampaling (of Drikung Kagyu sect) and Zabsang Choekhor Ling (of Nyingma sect). There is also the monastic college, Dzongsar Khyentse Chökyi Lodrö Institute (better known as Dzongsar Shedra), which holds a sizable monastic population and remains a small attraction of pilgrims and tourists alike.

Tashi Jong Monastery,Palampur

Tashi Jong Buddhist Monastery is situated about 15kms from Palampur. The monastery is located in Tashi Jong village, which is a small rural area situated between Paprola and Taragarh.

Overview

Home to the Drugpa Kagyu tradition of Buddhism, this monastery is one of the schools of Kagyu tradition established by 8th Khamtrul Rinpoche, Dongyu Nyima. The monastery complex houses the main temple, the stupa of Khamtrul Rinpoche, and the Yamantak Retreat Center which is restricted to the general public.

Designed by Khamtrul Rinpoche, the entire building is adorned with woodcarving, gilding and painting. Several manifestation of Buddha has also been placed in the monastery including the Buddha Shakyamuni. Apart from being a monastery, Tashi Jong is an excellent craft emporium, where Tibetan artifacts are available.

History

The community at Tashi Jong was established by 8th Khamtrul Rinpoche, Dongyu Nyima. Following the Drugpa Kagyu tradition, the community practices ascetic yoga. This school of Kagyu tradition is inspired by Indian tantric yogi – Tilopa, who is reckoned to have developed a meditation technique called Mahamudra. Tibetans later developed another technique called the 'Kadampa' and the mixture of the two resulted in the formation of Drugpa Kagyu School, of which the Khampagar Monastery is a follower.

The community at Tashi Jong is currently headed by the 9th Khamtrul -Rinpoche Shedrub Nyima.The masters come from the Drukpa Kagyu lineage which was founded by the prodigal Tsangpa Gyare. He was the disciple of Lingchen Repa, an ascetic yogi who had received tutelage from many teachers. The Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism has its roots in an Indian tantric yogi – Tilopa, who is credited with developing a meditation technique called Mahamudra. Tibetans developed another technique called the ‘Kadampa’ and the synthesis of the two resulted in the Dakpo Kagyu School, of which the Khmapagar Monastery is a follower.

The Tashi Jong Monastery is not just a centre for worship for Buddhists but is also the homely abode of various Tibetan refugees. The complex has a college for freshers and a Tibetan restaurant besides the main shrine.This place has been inhabited by Tibetan for many years now, and has a quaint serenity about it. Tibetan artifacts are also sold in the crafts emporium and these are ideal for tourists to buy as souvenirs. Almost everyone who travels to Palampur, visits this monastery. Tashi Jong in Tibetan stands for ‘auspicious valley’, which is actually an entire community of monks, practitioners and realized practitioners called ‘togdens’. The Khampagar Monastery therein, is the primary school for Tibetan teachings and practices. The Indian gaddi tribal people also live in this area along with Tibetan people.

Tashi Jong is the name of the village while the name of the monastery is Khampagar Monastery and it happens to be one of the very few smoke free villages of Himachal Pradesh. The community currently situated in the Kangra valley of Himachal Pradesh and spread over 37 acres, follows the Kagyu School of Tibetan Buddhism. The community was established by the late Khamtrul Rinpoche- Khamtrul Dongyu Nyima during the late sixties. Currently the Tashi Jong complex consists of the main temple, the stupa of Khamtrul Rinpoche, and the Yamantak Retreat Center which is out of bounds to general public.