Palampur has derived its name from the word ‘pulum’ which, in local parlance, is the word for ‘lots of water’. It is water that has given this valley so much of its character. Countless streams and brooks criss-cross the landscape and hold tea gardens and rice fields in their intricate mesh.

The town came into being when the tea bush was introduced to the area in the 19th century and Palampur became a focus for the planters. Kangra tea, with its centre at Palampur, has been internationally acclaimed since then.

The area is further blessed with remarkable natural beauty - the Dhauladhar ranges rise dramatically from the earth, just beyond Palampur. The town itself has some interesting colonial architecture and the area around is richly garnished with historical temples and forts and scores of picturesque hamlets.