Haripur Kangra is a twin township in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, India, that boasts a rich legacy of art and history. Located at an altitude of about 600 meters above sea level, Haripur Kangra was once the capital of the Guler Riyasat, a princely state that ruled over the region for centuries.
Haripur Kangra is also known for its traditional Kangra and Pahari paintings, which originated and flourished in this area. Haripur Kangra offers a variety of attractions, activities, and nearby places that make it a worthwhile destination for tourists who want to explore the hidden gems of Himachal Pradesh.
Haripur Kangra: A Legacy of Guler Riyasat
Haripur Kangra has a long and illustrious history that dates back to the 10th century AD, when it was founded by Raja Hari Chand, the first ruler of the Guler Riyasat. The Guler Riyasat was a powerful and prosperous state that extended from the Beas river to the Ravi river, and from the Dhauladhar range to the Shivalik hills. The Guler Riyasat was known for its patronage of art and literature, its resistance to foreign invasions, and its administration and governance.
Some of the notable achievements and contributions of the Guler Riyasat are:
It was the first state in India to adopt a democratic system of government, with a council of ministers and a parliament.
It was the first state in India to issue its own coins, which bore the image of Lord Shiva and the inscription “Shri Hari Chand”.
It was the first state in India to establish a postal system, with a network of messengers and horses.
It was the first state in India to introduce a uniform civil code, which granted equal rights and privileges to all its subjects, regardless of their caste, creed, or gender.
It was the first state in India to promote education and literacy, with schools, libraries, and scholarships for the students.
It was the first state in India to encourage trade and commerce, with a flourishing economy and a stable currency.
It was the first state in India to foster a culture of peace and harmony, with a policy of non-aggression and non-interference with its neighbours.
Haripur Kangra was the seat of power and the cultural hub of the Guler Riyasat, where the kings and the nobles resided and entertained their guests. Haripur Kangra witnessed the rise and fall of many dynasties and rulers, such as the Katoch, the Mughal, the Sikh, and the British. Haripur Kangra also played a significant role in the freedom struggle of India, as it was the site of several battles and rebellions against the colonial rule.
Haripur Kangra: A Hub of Traditional Kangra and Pahari Paintings
Haripur Kangra is also renowned for its traditional Kangra and Pahari paintings, which originated and flourished in this area. Kangra and Pahari paintings are a form of miniature painting that depict the themes of love, devotion, nature, and mythology in a delicate and refined manner. Kangra and Pahari paintings are characterized by their use of bright colours, fine brushwork, intricate details, and realistic expressions.
Some of the famous and exquisite examples of the Kangra and Pahari paintings are:
The Rasamanjari, a series of paintings that illustrate the various aspects of love between Radha and Krishna, based on the poetic text by Bhanudatta.
The Gita Govinda, a series of paintings that narrate the romantic and spiritual relationship between Radha and Krishna, based on the lyrical text by Jayadeva.
The Bhagavata Purana, a series of paintings that depict the stories and legends of Lord Vishnu and his incarnations, based on the ancient scripture by Vyasa.
The Ragamala, a series of paintings that portray the different musical modes and their associated moods, seasons, and times of the day.
The Barahmasa, a series of paintings that represent the twelve months of the year and their corresponding festivals, activities, and emotions.
Some of the renowned and influential artists of the Kangra and Pahari paintings are:
Nainsukh, a master painter who worked for the Guler Riyasat and created many portraits, landscapes, and scenes of court life.
Manaku, a brother of Nainsukh and a prolific painter who worked for various patrons and produced many religious and secular paintings.
Fattu, a nephew of Nainsukh and Manaku and a talented painter who worked for the Guler Riyasat and the Sikh Empire and created many paintings of historical and contemporary events.
Pandit Seu, a teacher and mentor of Nainsukh, Manaku, and Fattu and a pioneer of the Kangra style of painting.
Purkhu, a son of Pandit Seu and a skilled painter who worked for the Guler Riyasat and the Kangra Riyasat and created many paintings of the Ragamala and the Barahmasa.
Haripur Kangra: A Paradise for Nature and Adventure Lovers
Haripur Kangra offers a variety of attractions and activities that appeal to the nature and adventure lovers. Haripur Kangra is surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Himalayas, the forests, the rivers, and the wetlands. Haripur Kangra is also home to many caves, forts, temples, and monuments that reflect its rich heritage and culture.
Some of the main attractions and activities that Haripur Kangra offers are:
The wetland, a natural habitat for many migratory and resident birds, such as the black-necked crane, the bar-headed goose, the ruddy shelduck, the red-crested pochard, and the common teal. The wetland is also a popular spot for birdwatching, photography, boating, and fishing.
The caves, a network of natural and man-made caves that are believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati. The caves are also a place of pilgrimage and meditation for the devotees and the seekers.
The fort, a majestic structure that was built by Raja Hari Chand in the 10th century and later renovated by the Mughal emperor Jahangir. The fort is a testimony of the architectural and artistic excellence of the Guler Riyasat. The fort also houses a museum that displays the artifacts and paintings of the Kangra and Pahari schools of art.
The temples, a collection of ancient and sacred shrines that are dedicated to various deities, such as Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, Goddess Durga, Goddess Kali, and Lord Hanuman. The temples are also the venues of many festivals and fairs, such as the Shivaratri, the Navratri, the Dussehra, and the Baisakhi.
Haripur Kangra: A Gateway to Other Amazing Destinations
Haripur Kangra is also a gateway to other amazing destinations that are worth visiting in Himachal Pradesh. Haripur Kangra is well-connected by road and rail to many nearby places that offer a range of experiences and attractions for the tourists.
Some of the nearby places that Haripur Kangra connects to are:
Dharamshala, a hill station and the headquarters of the Kangra district, that is famous for its natural beauty, its Tibetan culture, and its spiritual atmosphere. Dharamshala is also the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the seat of the Tibetan government in exile.
Mcleodganj, a suburb of Dharamshala and a popular destination for backpackers, trekkers, and culture enthusiasts. Mcleodganj is also known as Little Lhasa, as it is home to many Tibetan monasteries, temples, and markets.
Palampur, a town and a tea estate in the Kangra valley, that is known for its scenic views, its pleasant climate, and its aromatic brews. Palampur is also a hub of adventure sports, such as paragliding, rafting, and camping.
Bir Billing, a village and a paragliding site in the Kangra valley, that is known for its thrilling and exhilarating flights. Bir Billing is also a center of ecotourism, meditation, and volunteerism.
Haripur Kangra is a hidden gem of history, culture, and art in Himachal Pradesh, India, that offers a unique and memorable experience for the tourists. Haripur Kangra is a place where the past and the present, the nature and the culture, and the adventure and the tranquility coexist in harmony. Haripur Kangra is a place that deserves to be explored and appreciated by the travelers who want to discover the secrets and the wonders of Himachal Pradesh.
If you are interested in visiting Haripur Kangra or exploring its artistic heritage, you can book a hotel, a tour, or a flight to Haripur Kangra through Tripoto, the leading online travel platform that connects travelers with local experts and guides. Tripoto also provides you with the best deals, the best reviews, and the best tips for your trip to Haripur Kangra. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip today!