🌄 Morni Hills is All You Could Ask For...

Hey explorer,

I am grateful for all I am witnessing - the people whose smiles convey what they are going through, the local food of different states, and, of course, the nomadic life (haha!). All these experiences feel amazing.

So, where did I head this time? You ask.

I visited this place recently in Haryana, and it is one of the most hidden places in the whole of India. Our adventurous experience went beyond our thoughts since there were very few people.

It is Morni Hills, and here's everything you should know.

Why Morni Hills?

From the moment you wake up till you retire to bed, all you can think about is to reach your office on time, complete work soon, and come home early so that you can spend some time doing things you love. But did you ever happen to realise that you have been working your whole life?

You look just fine until you realise that the parks you go to, the long sleep on your weekends, and the friends you meet once a week aren't enough to boost your juices and keep you focused. That's when you realise you need a long break. 

Imagine you wake up from your long sleep to beautiful green spaces, cool weather, and the birds chirping instead of noisy music. You gently open the door, and the breezy air hugs you gently, making you feel refreshed, while the greenery and the yellow and orange painted sky spread positivity. 

Morni Hills in Haryana does just that! How? Scroll to find the hidden facts. 

Basic Information

History

Morni Hills, nestled in the Panchkula district of Haryana, carries a rich history that adds a layer of charm to its scenic beauty. According to history, the name for this adventurous site has come from the name of a queen who once ruled this region, Queen Morni. 

Standing on top of the hill, the Morni Fort is a silent witness to the historical events that developed in this area. As you explore the fort, you will find things of an era gone by, telling stories of cultural significance.

Geography

Sitting 1,220 meters above sea level, Morni Hills brags about landscapes decorated with dense forests, sparkling lakes, and green valleys. Being a part of the Shivalik Range, these hills treat you with some of the best scenic views and breathtaking landscapes. 

Additionally, the picturesque Tikkar Taal adds to the charm of Morni's geography, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Local Culture

The local culture of Morni Hills is deeply rooted in its rural heritage. The natives here are known for their warm hospitality and welcome visitors with open arms. The culture is so vibrant that you will not stop loving the traditional art, music, and festivals. 

What makes you wonder is how actively people participate as a community to protect their culture, and you might even get to see folk dances, music performances, and traditional ceremonies when you visit during the season. 

Language Used

While Hindi is the predominant language spoken in Morni Hills, you will find that the locals are also good at communicating in various dialects and languages. Also, people can understand English, especially, in those areas where tourists visit more. Engaging with the locals in their native language adds an extra layer of connection, but you can speak comfortably in Hindi or English.

Climatic Conditions

Morni Hills enjoys a temperate climate, making it an attractive destination throughout the year. Summers are mild, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius, providing a pleasant escape from the heat of the plains. Winters bring a touch of frost, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland, with temperatures ranging from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius. 

To-Do Information

Must-Do Things

Morni Hills might be an unexplored place in Haryana. Yet, coming here without knowing what to do can turn your trip sweaty as you circle with confusion. So, start your exploration with the following places. 

• Explore Morni Fort

How about educating yourself before starting your exploration? It might put you to sleep, but the joy of knowing the history of the place you are about to explore brings an unexpected smile to your face. So, start your trip with the trek to the Morni Fort. The history of the fort constructions and the panoramic views of the surroundings from the top is incredible. 

• Boat Ride on Tikkar Taal

All the dreams you once had - travelling by plane or rail, might become true, but what about waterways? No matter how many times you take a boat ride, the feeling of travelling more exists. So, bring life to your never-ending dream by taking a small boat ride on Tikkar Taal. Surrounded by lush hills and a calm environment, this is more you could never forget. 

• Visit Morni Hills Viewpoint

Mourni Hills is one of the most unexplored Indian places, and you can see that from the hill's viewpoint. All the surroundings without crowds and tiny remote places make you feel bad that more people are yet to know that a place like this exists. Above all, the orange and orange-pink sunrise and sunset create a magical moment worth clicking pics with various filters. 

Places to Visit Nearby

Although Morni Hills can be an ideal destination for an adventurous and solo trip, travelling here with family may work but can't be as effective as coming here alone or with friends. So, here is a list of places that are kids and family-friendly. 

• Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary

Morni Hills can make it a perfect destination for a weekend trip, but what if you travel with a family and kids? Make your trip more adventurous by stopping at Khol Hi-Raitan Wildlife Sanctuary. Separated by 17 km, take a moment to enjoy watching wild animals you once only saw in pictures. 

• Nahan

Let's make your trip even more fun and turn yourself into archaeologists as you walk through the streets of this charming town of Nahan. Located at a short distance from Morni Hills, visit Rani Tal, Ranzor Palace, and the Jagannath Temple. Shortly, this town is known for its colonial buildings.

Must Buy Things

Morni Hills is one of the remote and unexplored natural beauties where there is more local people influence. If there is one best way to keep your memories of this place alive is to carry some local things that remind you of the best times you had here every time you see it. Some such items are:

• Phulkari Embroidery

Morni Hills is known for its vibrant Phulkari embroidery. This traditional Punjabi embroidery involves detailed threadwork on fabrics, creating colourful and eye-catching patterns. You can find Phulkari products like dupattas, shawls, and bags at local markets.

• Traditional Jewellery

Explore the local markets for traditional Haryanvi jewellery. These native items exhibit the region's culture since colourful beads and complicated designs cover most products. Earrings, necklaces, and bangles are a few popular choices for souvenirs among crowds. 

• Local Handicrafts

While traditional jewellery is on the one side, the local handicrafts are on the other. Support local artisans by purchasing handmade crafts like pottery, wooden artefacts, and handwoven clothes (another best way to carry the local tradition home with you). 

Travel Itinerary

Transportation

Getting to Morni Hills is a part of the adventure. The most common way is by road since this is the most remote part of the state. Enjoy the scenic drive as you travel from the national capital, Delhi, and the state capital, Chandigarh. The journey is approximately 4-5 hours from Delhi and 2 hours from Chandigarh. 

Two domestic airports are in Chandigarh, while Chandigarh Junction railway station connects to the major Indian cities. You can then use public transportation or cab service from there to reach the destination. However, the charges vary based on the distance and the path transport services pick to drop you off. 

(Note: The roads leading to Morni Hills offer picturesque views, so keep your camera handy.)

Accommodation

Although Morni Hills is a remote and unexplored site, some pretty resorts and hotels are available that can meet your expectations. From cosy guesthouses and boutique hotels to luxury resorts, you will find a home for your stay. You might like these. Check them out. 

Greenland Guest House - ₹597 (excluding taxes)/night for 2 adults.

- It is a 4.7-star rating hotel.
- They provide LAN and smoking rooms.
- They offer housekeeping services and a playground. 

Hikers and Brewers Tented Camps - ₹2,168 (excluding taxes)/night for 2 adults.

- It is a 4.4-star rating hotel.
- They offer free parking and paid transport.
- They provide a washing machine and a caretaker. 

Morni Heights - ₹1,894 (excluding taxes)/night for 2 adults.

- It is a 3.8-star rating hotel.
- They provide a refrigerator and parking.
- They have indoor games to stay entertained. 

Popular Food

Every Haryanvi dish showcases the rich flavours of the region. As you venture on a food journey through Morni, here are some must-try dishes that will tease your taste buds:

• Haryanvi Kadhi:

An ideal Haryanvi dish, kadhi is a flavorful curry made from yoghurt and gram flour, seasoned with a blend of spices. The tangy and spicy kadhi is often paired with rice or Bajra Roti, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. The locals have perfected the art of preparing kadhi, making it a staple in Haryanvi households.

• Bajra Roti:

Bajra (pearl millet) is a widely-consumed grain in Haryana, and Bajra Roti is a traditional flatbread made from this nutrient-rich cereal. The roti has a distinct nutty flavour and pairs with various curries and lentil dishes. Eating Bajra Roti with local vegetables or kadhi completes the authentic Haryanvi dining experience.

• Lassi:

No trip to Morni Hills is complete without enjoying a refreshing glass of lassi. This traditional yoghurt-based drink is often sweetened and flavoured with cardamom, offering a cool respite from the warm weather. Lassi is widely available in local hotels and dhabas, providing a delightful way to beat the heat.

• Bhutte Ka Kees:

Bhutte Ka Kees is a unique Haryanvi dish made from grated corn cooked in milk and seasoned with spices. This dish showcases the region's agricultural abundance and cooking creativity. The sweetness of the corn combined with the richness of milk creates a blend of flavours.

Local Food Hotels 

Enjoying the local food and enjoying the local food in peace. Do you notice the difference? No matter how good the food is, if the place is more noisy and crowded, the whole experience will be different. Likewise, if the place is empty and the food doesn't meet your expectations causes the same feeling. So, balancing both, there are a few places you should check out around Morni Hills. 

Tikri Resort - Best for local flavours.
Chandrawal Kunj Forest Retreat - Best for Indian food.
Green Hill Resort - Best for Haryavi food. 

Travel Expenses

Morni Hills is known for being a budget-friendly destination because the prices here for accommodation, food, and activities are reasonable. Yet, it all depends on your travel inclinations and habits.

The basic necessities include local transport, meals, and any additional activities you wish to enjoy. Also, having money on hand is advisable, as not all places may accept cards. So, on average, you might need ₹2,000 to ₹3,500 a day.

Travel Tips

1. Camera and Binoculars: Capture the mesmerizing landscapes and diverse wildlife with a good camera. Binoculars can improve your experience, especially during birdwatching.

2. Layered Clothing: The weather in Morni Hills can be unpredictable. Pack layered clothing to adapt to temperature changes, especially if you are exploring in the early morning or evening.

Safety Tips

1. Stick to Marked Trails: If you plan to trek, stick to marked trails and avoid venturing into unknown areas. Doing so ensures both your safety and the preservation of the natural habitat.

2. Water Safety: Be careful around water bodies, especially during boat rides. Follow safety guidelines and wear life jackets if provided.

3. Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities and your accommodation, to meet unforeseen circumstances since it is a hilly area. 

Conclusion

Whether you seek adventure, peace, or cultural immersion, Morni Hills has something for everyone. From the historical echoes of Morni Fort to the scenic beauty of Tikkar Taal, every moment you spend here becomes a cherished memory. So, pack your bags, follow this itinerary, and let Morni Hills weave its magic around you.

Thought to Inspire 🏃‍♂️

“Jobs fill your pocket, but adventures fill your soul.” – Jamie Lyn Beatty

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