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How To Reach Kotgarh & Thanedhar

Narkanda, Himachal Pradesh, India
The Birthplace of Himalayan Apples: Kotgarh and Thanedhar are two historically and economically significant twin villages, situated approximately 16 to 18 kilometers from Narkanda town, often referred to collectively as the "Apple Bowl of India" or the "Apple Valley." This region holds the distincti on of being the birthplace of commercial apple cultivation in Himachal Pradesh, thanks to the pioneering efforts of an American missionary named Samuel Evan Stokes (later known as Satyanand Stokes). In the early 20th century (1916), Stokes introduced the high-quality, American 'Red Delicious' apple variety here, which revolutionized the local economy and agricultural landscape, making Himachal a major apple-producing state. The villages are situated on a lower, gentler ridge than Narkanda, offering stunning views of the vast Sutlej River valley below. The landscape is characterized by endless, meticulously maintained apple orchards, which are the main draw. Beyond apples, the area is rich in history, featuring colonial-era architecture such as the Kotgarh Church (St. Mary's Church) and the historic Stokes Farm (Para village). The atmosphere is more relaxed and agricultural than the main tourist hub of Narkanda, offering a deep dive into the rural, yet prosperous, Himachali life. Thanedhar is where the Stokes Farm is located, while Kotgarh is slightly larger and hosts the church and historical British-era administrative buildings. This area is a pilgrimage for anyone interested in agricultural history, picturesque landscapes, and colonial heritage. (Word Count: 401)

How to Reach

By Air:

The Nearest Airport: The nearest airport is Jubbarhatti Airport (SLV) near Shimla (80 KMS away). From the airport, hire a taxi to Narkanda. From Narkanda, local taxis are the best option for the 16-18 KMS drive to Kotgarh and Thanedhar.

By Train:

Railhead: The major railhead is Kalka (KLK), followed by the charming Kalka-Shimla Toy Train to Shimla Railway Station (SML) (60 KMS from Narkanda). From Shimla, hire an HRTC bus or taxi towards Rampur and ask to be dropped off at the Thanedhar turn-off near Narkanda.

By Road:

NH-5 Connection: Kotgarh and Thanedhar are easily accessible by a link road that branches off the NH-5 (Hindustan-Tibet Road) just before or near Narkanda. The drive from Narkanda is about 30 to 45 minutes on a well-maintained road. Frequent local taxis or buses heading towards the lower valley can be used. It is a very popular day trip route for drivers from Shimla (65-70 KMS) and Narkanda.

By Local Transport:

Shared Taxis and Buses: Shared taxis and local mini-buses frequently run between Narkanda and the villages like Thanedhar and Kotgarh as they are part of the local transport network for the villagers and farmers. This is the most economical way to travel the 16-18 KMS distance.

Narkanda Itineray And Cost:-

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