Nestled within the heart of Himachal Pradesh, a land of mystique and breath-taking beauty, lies a hidden gem that beckons travelers seeking more than just a destination—it beckons those in search of a profound experience. Journey to Chindi, a village untouched by time, cradled in the lap of the Himalayas, is the stage for our 5-day odyssey.
Here, the mountains whisper ancient secrets, the orchards bear the sweetest of fruits and the temples resonate with centuries of devotion. Chindi’s allure lies not only in its natural splendour but in the stories etched in every corner, the history woven into its temples and the traditions that have endured through the ages. Join us on this journey, as we embark on a voyage of discovery, unearthing the mysteries of the hills, one day at a time.
Day 1: The Quest Begins
As the sun rose over Shimla, we embarked on their journey to Chindi. Our first stop was Naldehra, a lush green paradise known for its historic golf course. The journey was not just about distance but a voyage into history.
History of Naldehra: It all began in the early 1900s when Lord Curzon, the British Viceroy of India, designed the Naldehra Golf Course. This 18-hole course was a testament to the colonial era’s elegance and sophistication. The lush greens were framed by the majestic Himalayas and as we strolled amidst the manicured lawns, we couldn’t help but feel like we had stepped into a time capsule.
They marvelled at the ancient deodar trees that lined the course, their branches casting dappled shadows on the fairways. These trees had witnessed decades of golfers, from British officers to modern-day enthusiasts, perfecting their swings.
For lunch, we enjoyed local Himachali cuisine at a quaint restaurant of Himachal Tourism, Hotel Golf Glade overlooking the golf course. It was the perfect introduction to the flavours of the region, with dishes like chana madra and dham showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Himachal Pradesh.
We couldn’t help but wonder about the history of the ingredients used in these dishes. Were the spices grown in nearby villages? Were the recipes passed down through generations? These were the mysteries of Himachali cuisine waiting to be unraveled.
Day 2: Into the Orchard Haven
Leaving behind the echoes of the golf course, we set forth our journey to Chindi. The journey was filled with winding roads and breath-taking views. Soon, we found ourselves in the heart of the village, surrounded by verdant orchards.
Chindi’s Orchards: The village of Chindi, at an elevation of 1,920 meters, was famed for its apple orchards. These orchards weren’t just sources of livelihood; they were emblems of sustenance and natural beauty. Rows upon rows of apple trees, heavy with fruit, stretched as far as the eye could see.
As we explored the orchards, the scent of apples filled the air and the village seemed to be embraced by nature’s bounty. Each apple seemed to tell a story of hard work and dedication, of farmers who toiled tirelessly to ensure a bountiful harvest.
During our journey to Chindi, we had the opportunity to meet some of these farmers, who shared their knowledge of apple farming. They learned about the different apple varieties grown in the region, from the sweet and crunchy Royal Delicious to the tangy and crisp Golden Delicious.
One farmer, an elderly man with weathered hands and a warm smile, explained how apples were not just a source of income but a way of life in Chindi. He shared stories of festivals where villagers would come together to celebrate the harvest, singing folk songs and dancing under the starry Himalayan skies.
As we left the orchards, we couldn’t help but feel a deep appreciation for the simple yet profound way of life in Chindi. It was a place where nature and culture intertwined seamlessly.
A Cozy Retreat at Hotel Mamleshwar Chindi:
With the sun setting behind the mountains, in next phase of our journey to Chindi, we made our way to Hotel Mamleshwar, a charming retreat nestled in the heart of Chindi. Surrounded by the serene beauty of the village, the hotel offered a warm and inviting atmosphere, a perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional hospitality.
Advance Booking at HPTDC: Before embarking on our journey, we had wisely made advance bookings through the official website of Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC). This not only ensured their comfortable stay at Hotel Mamleshwar but also allowed them to secure a room with a view of the lush orchards and the distant mountains as this hotel generally remains fully occupied.
The hotel’s cozy rooms welcomed us with the promise of a restful night’s sleep, while the onsite restaurant served delectable Himachali cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. As they settled into their rooms, we couldn’t help but appreciate the foresight of making reservations in advance, ensuring a hassle-free and delightful stay in the heart of Chindi.
With the comfort of Hotel Mamleshwar as their base, we were ready to embrace the adventures and discoveries that lay ahead in the enchanted village of Chindi.
Day 3: Temples and Tranquility
Journey to Chindi was not just about nature; it was also a place of spiritual solace. The day was devoted to exploring the local temples, starting with Kamaksha Temple.
Kamaksha Temple: This sacred shrine was dedicated to Goddess Kamaksha, a manifestation of the divine feminine. Its architecture spoke of ancient craftsmanship and devotion. It was a place where pilgrims found solace and history merged with spirituality.
We marvelled at the intricate woodwork that adorned the temple’s façade. Each carving seemed to tell a story and the guide shared the legend of how the temple came to be. It was said that a humble villager had a dream where the goddess revealed her desire for a temple to be built in her honour. Over the years, the dream became a reality and the Kamaksha Temple stood as a testament to faith and devotion.
As we entered the temple, the soothing scent of incense filled the air. Devotees offered prayers, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of oil lamps. We also couldn’t help but join in the quiet contemplation, feeling a sense of peace wash over them.
Mamleshwar Temple: Another significant temple in Journey to Chindi, Mamleshwar Temple, stood as a testament to Lord Shiva’s divine presence. Its serene ambiance and historical importance made it a place for both worship and reflection.
We learned about the annual Maha Shivaratri festival when the temple would come alive with devotees singing hymns and performing traditional dances. One local as a guide explained that this festival was not just a religious event but a celebration of culture and community.
Amidst the temples, the we found a sense of tranquility that was rarely experienced in the chaos of modern life. We marveled at how Chindi’s spirituality was not confined to the temples but permeated every aspect of village life.
Day 4: The Echoes of the Past
The fourth day was a journey into the heart of Chindi’s history. We visited Kamru Nag Temple and Mahu Nag Temple, ancient places that whispered stories of centuries gone by.
Kamru Nag Temple: Dedicated to Lord Kamru Nag, this historic shrine protected the village from snakebites and natural calamities. Its architecture was a fusion of tradition and spirituality. We learned about the legend of Lord Kamru Nag, a guardian deity believed to watch over Chindi.
Mahu Nag Temple: This ancient temple, devoted to Lord Mahu Nag, was a place where traditions were passed from one generation to the next. The temple’s peaceful surroundings enhanced the spiritual experience. It was said that the temple’s existence predated recorded history and its significance had only grown over the years.
As we left these temples, we carried with them the echoes of history and the warmth of faith. We couldn’t help but ponder the resilience of these ancient structures, which had weathered the test of time and continued to be places of reverence.
Day 5: The Harmonious Blend
The final day of our journey to Chindi was a blend of spirituality and nature. The Chindi Mata Temple stood as a testament to the village’s devotion to its local deity. We offered our prayers and then embarked on an orchard walk.
Orchard Walk: Amidst the lush apple orchards, we strolled, breathing in the fresh mountain air. The orchards, vital to Chindi’s economy, were a testament to nature’s beauty and the village’s prosperity. We had the opportunity to interact with some of the local apple pickers, who shared their stories of the harvest season.
We marvelled at the precision and care with which each apple was plucked. The pickers explained that the timing of the harvest was crucial and every apple was handpicked to ensure its quality. It was a labor of love that resulted in the juicy and flavorful apples that Chindi was known for.
As we continued our orchard walk, we felt a deep sense of connection to the land and its people. We understood that Chindi’s beauty wasn’t just in its landscapes but in the resilience and traditions of its residents.
Tatta Pani: A short detour led us to Tatta Pani, where hot water springs and water sports added a touch of adventure to their journey. We enjoyed a thrilling session of water sports, with the gushing water body providing the perfect backdrop for adrenaline-pumping activities.
After the adventure, we headed back to Naldehra, where we enjoyed a leisurely lunch at the Golf Course Restaurant. The restaurant offered stunning views of the golf course and the travellers savoured the flavours of Himachali cuisine one last time.
As we left the Journey to Chindi and began our journey back to Shimla, we reflect on the incredible experiences we had shared. Chindi had welcomed us with open arms, revealing its secrets, its history and its soul.
With hearts full of gratitude, we bid farewell to Chindi, knowing that the memories of this enchanting village would forever be etched in our hearts. Chindi had been more than a destination; it had been a journey into the heart of the Himalayas, a journey of discovery and wonder.
As we drove away, the mountains stood tall, the orchards swayed in the breeze and the temples watched over the village. Chindi remained a hidden gem, waiting for more travelers to uncover its mysteries and be touched by its magic. And so, the story of Chindi continued, a tale of beauty, history and the enduring spirit of the hills.
