Salooni, a small town, situated in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, is an important economic and regional administrative centre. Salooni, derived from the word saloni- implies attractive or captivating. Saloon is known for its rich and intriguing beauty, quaint shops, apple orchards, tough roads, and Kali Mata temple. The wildlife sanctuary of Salooni inhabits the rare Kashmiri stag. Moreover, the place is also used as the prime location in various Bollywood movies. It is a perfect destination to relax and beat the summer heat.
Planning A Trip To Salooni For A Soothing And Serene Experience
To have a beautiful experience in Salooni, a special curated list or travel itinerary is prepared for you. Keep these tips in mind and have a wonderful time in Salooni.
1. Gamgul Siahbehi Wildlife Sanctuary
Are you fond of animals and enjoy the sight of rare and beautiful species? If yes, then The Gamgul Sanctuary is a must-visit for you. Gamgul Siahbehi Wildlife Sanctuary is located at a distance of 20km from Salooni. It is home to Musk deer, snow leopards, rabbits, and tahr and one can even witness the most beautiful and colourful species of birds here. The unique Kashmiri Stag is also found in this sanctuary. The sanctuary is also an amazing place for wildlife photographers and one can find a unique and wide variety of fauna in Gamgul.
Timings: Open 24 Hours
Best Time To Visit: June To September
Must Read: Places To Visit In Chamba
2. Taleru Boating Point
People find boating quite peaceful and serene, when in the mountains. So, one can experience such serenity at The Taleru Boating Point. Boating is done on a lake which was formed naturally during the construction of the Chamera Dam. The point is a popular picnic spot and its charm is observed during holidays when the locals and tourists enjoy boating in the lake. Taleru’s charm does not end here, this boating point is often visited by the directors and cast of the movies as they want to capture such picturesque views in their films.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 06:00 PM
Best Time To Visit: October To April
3. Khadma Valley
Khadma Valley, a part of Kharel Valley, has beautiful and well-known temples. Nag Devta temple, Garh Mata Mandir, and many such temples. The famous Bhalei Mata temple is also situated near Salooni. Mountains surround this ancient Kali mata temple and thus offer a breathtaking view of nature and landscapes.
Timings: NA
Best Time To Visit: April To June
Suggested Read: Temples In Himachal Pradesh
4. Baira Siul
This small town has also contributed to the generation of hydropower. NHPC’s first project in India was in Baira Siul, on the banks of the Surgani river. This hydropower plant produces 180 megawatts of electricity. Isn’t this huge and something to be proud of?
Timings: NA
Best Time To Visit: March To June
5. Laxmi Narayan Temple
Laxmi Narayan Temple was built in the 10th century and is known for its architectural marvel. The temple’s roof is like a wheel that protects it from cold or snow. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and houses a metallic image of Garuda. It has great historical significance. Additions were made to the temple in various dynasties, including the period of Chandragupta and the period of the Mughals.
Timings: 06:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 02:30 PM to 08:30 PM
Best Time To Visit: March To June
Suggested Read: Monuments In Himachal Pradesh
6. Bhuri Singh Museum
The Bhuri Singh Museum is located close to the Chaugan town of Chamba. The museum was founded to honour Raja Bhuri Singh in 1908. The place contains a variety of miniature paintings, carved doors, coins used in the medieval period, jewellery, attire worn by ancient people, musical instruments, copper plates, decorative items, etc. The place is also home to some early manuscripts. Moreover, various exhibitions and research activities are constantly been practised in the museum.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 05:00 PM
Best Time To Visit: March To June
7. Manimahesh Lake
Manimahesh Lake is near Manimahesh Kailash Peak. It is located in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas. The Lake is known for its religious significance. It is a platform for pilgrimage treks taken by the people in August and September. The Pilgrimage treks are popularly known as ‘Manimahesh Yatra’. A Manimahesh Pilgrimage Committee is formed to support this holy pilgrimage. The procession during the Yatra is splendid. The Pilgrims carry holy sticks, known as ‘holy chhari’. As people from different parts of the country gather for this procession, the Himachal government provides various food, medical, and transportation facilities. The conduct and discipline observed during the Yatra are ineffable.
Timings: NA
Best time to visit: May To June and September To October
Suggested Read: Famous Lakes In India
8. Church of Scotland, Chamba
The Church was made by Raja Sham Singh to honour the Church of Scotland’s mission. The church was established on 17th February 1899 A.D. Its architectural style is quite intriguing as it is made of earth-coloured stone, and the windows are arched. The Church is situated near the famous Laxmi Narayan Temple. The other name of the church is St. Andrews Church. The architecture and design of the church have been kept intact for years, and there has not been a single alteration in its framework. So, antiquity, the essence of the past, is protected and safeguarded.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 08:00 PM
Best Time To Visit: March To June
9. Padri Pass Or Padri Top
Padri Pass is a hill station that is 41 km on the Bhanderwah- Chamba national highway. The highway is between the borders of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. Padri Pass is the largest pass on the expressway. The pass offers some exciting adventure sports like snow skiing and paragliding. Sports are season specific, as paragliding is prominent during summers and snow skiing in winters. Such adventure sports give an adrenaline rush, and people, especially the youth, love such adventures.
Timings: NA
Best Time To Visit: June To August
Further Read: Saach Pass
Now you have the perfect itinerary for a trip to Salooni. So, what are you waiting for? Plan a trip to Himachal Pradesh with your loved ones. Make sure you visit all the mentioned places to experience the essence of the place and have a fun, relaxing, adventurous trip to Salooni.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Salooni
What makes Chamba different from other districts?
Chamba is known for its small-scale industries where numerous artisans produce textiles, handicrafts, and chappals, which are sold and exported. Pahari paintings of Chamba are also quite an attraction.
At what height is Salooni situated?
Salooni is situated at an altitude of 1829 meters and the distance between Salooni and Chamba is 55km.
Which food item is relished in Chamba?
People of Chamba are fond of a dish called Madra. Madra is made with soaked chickpeas and vegetables mixed with various spices to enhance the taste and make the dish irresistible.
In which language do the people of Chamba communicate?
People of Chamba speak a Pahari language called Chambeali.
What is the religious significance of Chamba?
Salooni is the home to Kailash Parvat and is popularly known as the land of Lord Shiva.
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