Hey explorer,

I was going through the comments that came with the poll answers a few days ago when one of my cousins was also sitting next to me, surfing the internet.

"I want a break from all this city life, and all the places on the internet fail to convince me," he said out of nowhere. Suspecting his statement, I took charge of surfing until I came across Chindi in Himachal Pradesh.

Seriously! What does Chindi have that other places lack? Well, let's find it out.

Why Visit Chindi?

Let's say you are fed up with your daily city routine and are hunting to find places that let you rest and give you the peace you longed for. If you said, "Ugh! I need something even quieter and unique," for the results you got from sources, Chindi is for you then. 

Being untouched parts of Himachal Pradesh, Chindi caters to all travellers seeking peace and adventure simultaneously - beautiful nature, spiritual sites, adventurous trekking, warm local culture and traditions, and the best site for landscape and aerial photographers. 

Overview

• History

Going deep into the bygone era, Chindi carries the imprints of ancient civilizations and cultural blend. Sources say that the history of Chindi dates back to Mahabharata and has seen the rise and fall of various dynasties, including the Guptas and the Mauryas. 

• Geography

Being a part of the Himalayas, Chindi sits approximately 2,100 meters (6,890 feet) above sea level, leaving you breathless in more ways than one. For most parts, you could find this scenic place covered in dense forests of Deodar and Pine with terraced fields rolling down the hills. 

• Local Culture

Festivals like the Sair Festival and the Baisakhi Fair showcase the vibrant colours and traditions of Chindi with the Traditional Pahari melodic music and dance. The local people of the Pahari community are known for their hospitality and friendliness, creating feel-at-home vibes. 

• Language Used

You will find most local people speaking Pahari, a dialect of the Himachali language. However, as people are getting Chindi into light as a tourist site, Hindi and English usage is also increasing in the most visited places. Yet, you want to learn a few Pahari phrases to connect more with locals. 

• Climatic Conditions

The temperature of Chindi highly depends on the season. Summers, from March to June, have pleasant weather perfect for outdoors. Monsoons bring showers from July to September, while winters, from October to February, bring snow to Chindi. Chindi is a year-round destination.

Discovery Checklist

Must-Do Things

• Hatu Temple

Begin your Chindi adventure with a visit to the historic Hatu Temple atop Hatu Peak. The temple, dedicated to Mandodari, the wife of Ravana, not only holds religious significance but also offers the best scenic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

• Hatu Peak Trek

Push yourself to trek to Hatu Peak, especially during winter when snow covers the land. Walking through the dense Deodar forests gives you a calm connection with nature. The peak rewards you with stunning views, making it a must-do for adventure lovers.

• Nature Walks in Deodar Forests

Force yourself to taste the essence of nature walks in the Deodar forests surrounding Chindi. Take leisurely walks, breathing in the crisp mountain air and enjoying the melody of bird songs. The peaceful ambience gives a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Nearby Places to Visit

• Karsog

A panoramic village near Chindi, Karsog is known for its apple orchards and ancient temples. The Mamleshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Kamaksha Devi Temple are must-visit landmarks, each telling the tales of history and spirituality.

• Mamleshwar

Explore the scenic beauty of Mamleshwar, another captivating village in the suburbs. The Mamleshwar Mahadev Temple and the Mamleshwar Ridge, with scenic surrounding views, make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and photographers.

• Shikari Devi Temple

A trek to the Shikari Devi Temple, dedicated to Shikari Devi, is a rewarding experience if you like adventuring. Surrounded by alpine meadows and offering panoramic views of the Himalayas, the local people believe the god to be the region's guardian deity.

Must Buy Things

• Handmade Woolens

Chindi is known for its beautiful handmade woollens. From warm shawls to detailed designed sweaters, the local weavers are a testament to the skill and tradition passed down through generations.

• Local Handicrafts

Check out the local markets for Himachali handicrafts. Wooden artefacts, handwoven baskets, and traditional Pahari jewellery can make for unique souvenirs that showcase the cultural essence of the region.

• Himachali Apples

Carry home the flavours of Himachali apples. Crisp, juicy, and locally grown, these apples are a delicious reminder of your time in Chindi. You can buy them in local markets or directly from orchards.

Travel Itinerary

Transportation

- By Road: From Shimla, it takes approximately 8 hours to reach Chindi. The scenic views of valleys and forests boost your Chindi experience, making it an integral exploration part.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is in Shimla, about 180 kilometres away. From Shimla, you can then use public transportation or hire a taxi to get to your dream site. 
- By Air: The closest airport is in Chandigarh, approximately 350 kilometres away. Flights to Chandigarh are available from major cities in India, and getting to Chindi involves buses or taxis. 

Hotels 

• Accommodation

Chindi has several best-stay options. While some are expensive, some are reasonable. Check out some below at Karsog. 

Thandapani Springs - It's a hotel with laundry and room service.
MMM Tharmi - It's a hotel with butler service, a bar, and a hammam.
Tejas Hotel - It's a hotel with laundry and room service with parking. 

• Eateries 

Tasting local food in the local eateries is one of the best travel things. So, here are a few places you must try at Karsog (14.1 km away from Chindi). 

Sun Shine Restaurant - Best for North Indian foods. 
Day and Night Bakery - Best for sweets and fast food. 
Epic Dining - Best for little expensive North Indian foods. 

Popular Food

- Sidu: A traditional Himachali dish, Sidu is a steamed bread stuffed with various ingredients such as spinach, walnuts, and jaggery. 
- Babru: It's a deep-fried snack made with soaked and ground black gram lentils enjoyed with tamarind chutney.
- Chha Gosht: This is a Himachali mutton curry slow-cooked with a blend of local spices, best enjoyed with steamed rice or traditional flatbreads.

Travel Tips

- Dress in Layers: The weather in Chindi can be unpredictable, especially in the evenings. Dressing in layers ensures you stay comfortable and warm throughout the day.
- Carry Essentials: When exploring on treks or nature walks, carry water, snacks, sunscreen, and a first aid kit. The trails can be challenging, so it's crucial to be prepared.
- Respect Local Customs: Explore the local culture by respecting customs and traditions. Seek permission before photographing locals, especially in villages and religious sites.

Safety Tips

- Altitude Precautions: Chindi sits at a considerable altitude. Take it slow upon arrival to adapt to the high altitude and prevent altitude sickness.
- Weather Awareness: Stay updated about the weather, especially during winter - road closures due to snowfall can impact travel plans. 
- Trekking Caution: If planning to trek, let someone know your itinerary and expected return time. Follow only marked trails or hire a local guide. 

Travel Expenses

Although Chindi is a lesser-known place and things are available at low prices, you might need ₹2,500 to ₹4,000 per day per person, depending on your spending behaviour. It includes accommodation, food, transport services, and other travel expenses. 

Conclusion

Chindi, sitting in the Himalayan hills, attracts you with its ancient temples, untouched landscapes, and warm Pahari culture. From the spirituality of Hatu Temple to the green landscapes of Shikari Devi, Chindi will let you lose yourself in its peaceful beauty. Check out the 4-day travel itinerary below that you might want to screenshot.

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