Morni Hills
At a distance of 45 Kms from the city of Chandigarh, the Morni Hills are located. The hills present here are branches of the Shivaliks range. The hills consist of two ranges, which run in a parallel manner, from the south east direction to north east direction. The spurs, projecting outward from the earth are there, creating a discontinuation between them. The Ghaggar River meanders in between these picturesque valleys.
The Mountain Quail Tourists Resort, which is a part of the tourism department of Haryana state, is a fine place for staying. On the summit of the hill, there is another nice motel. A panoramic view of the spectacular valleys can be seen from this motel. The motel includes facilities like an amazing restaurant and also a bar, with plush lawns covered with vibrant greens.
There are two lakes situated amongst the spurs in the hills. The length of the lake is 550 meters and the breadth of the lake is 460 meters. The second lake that is located here is 365 meters in length as well as in breadth. Since the level of the water in the two lakes stays equal always, it is believed that there must be some linkage between the lakes, hidden from the public eye; however there is the presence of a tiny hill like structure, which separates the two lakes. The historical significance of the place can somewhat be derived from the relics of an ancient fort, which are there in the hills. It is so believed that the Queen of the Morni Hills owned the fort. Thick green pine trees cover the top of the hills. Trekking activities can be very well carried out in these hills. The weather conditions remain healthy. Other activities such as boating, canoeing, kayaking and sailing are also carried out in these lakes. In order to escape the hustle and bustle of the daily life, many a number of people come here.
TOURIST PLACES IN MORNI HILLS
Opportunities for trekkers and explorers: For the people who loves adventure and sports activities, this location provides ample opportunities to do so. One can definitely go for a trek to Tikkar Tal as well as Ghaggar. Beautiful and vibrant flowers cover the hill slopes of Morni. A valley is great depth, is created by the river Ghaggar, which meanders through the hills. Numerous tiny villages are located here. The historical significance of the place can somewhat be derived from the relics of an ancient fort, which are there in the hills. It is so believed that the Queen of the Morni Hills owned the fort. Thick green pine trees cover the top of the hills.
Flora and Fauna: Plush green trees cover the hill slopes of the Morni Hills. Trees like neem, pepal, jamun, dhak, amaltas, jacaranda trees and pine are present all over the Morni’s low hill tracts. The beautiful and vibrant flowers make patches of color on the otherwise brown and green trees. The summit of the hill is covered with the pine trees. It is also called ‘chil’ by the local people. The cones of the pine trees are small, since these trees have been planted on these hills. It has been an experiment since the trees are meant to grow in the cold weather. That is the reason the pine cones are small. Animals like sambhar, hyena and sometimes jungle cat can be found in the forests of the hills.
Camping Activities at Lake Side: Picnics and camping activities are carried out in the Morni Hills, against the spectacular backdrop of the panoramic hills. Exciting tour deals are made available by the tourism department of Haryana. A package is made up of 15 participants or more. In the tents, sleeping bags are provided; however it is suggested that the people coming for the tour package should carry their own toiletries.
HOW TO REACH
By road: Private as well as state transport buses offer their services. One can also hire private cabs or cars in order to reach the place.
By rail: The closest railway station is located in the city of Chandigarh. The distance between the city and Morni Hills is 45 Kms.
By air: The closest air terminal is situated in the city of Chandigarh.
45 kms from Chandigarh near Panchkula, Haryana. One hour journey. Not on the main highway. Limited bus Services, taxi or self driven vehicle is the best way to reach this place.
