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About
Kalka |
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Kalka is an attractive town which is situated in the Panchkula
district of Haryana, India. The town is situated in the
foothills of the Himalayas. The place is well known as a
gateway to neighbouring state of Himachal Pradesh. The name of
the town is derived from the goddess Kali. The town is on the
National Highway 22 between Chandigarh and Shimla, and is the
terminus of the Kalka-Shimla Railway. To the south of Kalka is
Pinjore, and the industrial town of Parwanoo (Himachal
Pradesh) is to the north on the NH 22.
Industrial development has led to a continuous urban belt from
Pinjore to Parwanoo, but Kalka remains largely unaffected by
these developments. Nearby is Chandimandir Cantonment where
the Western Command of the Indian army is based. A large
number of tourists follow the route, which passes through
Kalka, to reach Shimla as one can take a ride of toy train
from Kalka. Acccording to 2011 census the population of Kalka
is 30,314. |
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Climate of Kalka |
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Kalka
enjoys a amusing weather for most of the year, compared to
nearby big cities like Ambala, Delhi, Chandigarh, etc. Summers
are hot during May and June. Monsoon bring in heavy rainfall for
about 4 to 5 months starting around late May/June. From
October/November temperature start falling rapidly and chilling
winter sets in by December. Winter season lasts for another 3 to
4 months. Kalka also receives some rainfall from Western
Disturbance, near the end of winter. Winter season, despite
being chilly, is mostly free of fog unlike most north Indian
cities in the plains. |
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History of Kalka |
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Kalka
was acquired by British India from the Princely state of Patiala
in 1843 as a depot for Shimla, the summer capital of the Raj. It
became the junction for the Delhi-Ambala-Kalka, and the Kalka -
Simla railways. By 1901, the town was administered as a notified
area and had a population of 7,045, a railway workshop, and was
a market for ginger and turmeric.The Kalka municipal committee
was created on 11 April 1933. |
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Tourist Attractions in Kalka |
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Major Kalka attractions include Shri Balaji Temple,
Pinjore Garden and Kali Mata Temple. Its ancient goddess
temple is a major attraction which is well-known among
tourists. Yadavindra Gardens is a place at Pinjore which
is considered to have been built by Mughals, and is a
famous tourist destination.
Shri Balaji Temple
In 1988 an ancient temple of Balaji (childhood incarnition
of Hindu god Hanuman) was excavated on one of the hills
overlooking the town. Every year thousands of devotees
come to pay their respects to the Hindu God Hanuman. This
temple has also become famous destination among devotees,
including localites. This temple is getting more and more
famous day by day
Pinjore Garden
The Yadavindra Gardens at Pinjore is considered to be
founded by Mughals, it is another popular destination
among people who visits the area. Every year a Mango Mela
is organised here in which 500 varieties of mangoes are
displayed for the visitors. There are many buildings which
was made by Mughals and was of greenery only.
Kali Mata Temple
The ancient temple of the Hindu goddess Kali is situated
on the National Highway 22 that runs through Kalka town.
It is believed that this temple was build in the age of
Mahabhrata by Pandvas, during "Agyat Vas" when they stayed
here for some time.
The temple is very famous with hundreds of devotees who
pay their respects annually during the Navratri. |
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How to Reach Kalka |
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By
Rail
Kalka is well connected to other major cities of the country by
regular trains.
By Road
One can easily get regular buses to Kalka from other major
cities of the country.
By Air
There are no regular flights from other major cities of the
country to Kalka. Nearest airport is Chandigarh Airport. |
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