The mountainous state of Himachal Pradesh is what makes a picture postcard. Green valleys, snow-capped mountains and gurgling little brooks add to the charm of this pastorally perfect region. Here the pace of life is still sedate. And to be at peace with one's self is not yet incredible. The state straddles the foothills of the Himalayas right till the spectacular valleys and stark peaks of Lahul and Spiti.

The capital Shimla, has the distinction of serving as the summer capital of India in the days of the British viceroys. It was the British who turned this stopover, on way to the temple of hill goddess Shimla, into the summer capital of a sub-continent. Shimla with its turrets and quaint bungalows is the inspiration for many an author's creation. In fact Shimla forms the backdrop of some of Rudyard Kipling's "Plain Tales From The Hills". For those who are fond of nature walks and architecture this hill station is perfect. Laden with oak trees and rhodendron forests, the town's Viceregal Lodge, Grand Hotel, the Police Headquarters and St Michael's Cathedral offer glimpses of the architectural delights that dot the hill station. The tour also includes a visit to Pragpur and Dharamsala. Secure in the protective shadow of the mighty Dhauladhar mountains, Pragpur is India's first certified heritage village. It was established by the Kuthiala Soods in the memory of Princess Prag of the Jaswan royal family. In fact the Kuthiala Soods' 300 year old ancestral home is definitely worth seeing. Dharamsala is where the Dalai Lama resides. The 14th Dalai Lama Tenzin Gyatso has made it his home since the 1960s. Apart from its obvious spiritual appeal the natural beauty of the region is also quite mesmerising. It provides ample walking opportunities and is also culturally rich. The town has a number of important temples and is famous for its miniature paintings.

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