Bakloh: Cantonment Calm, Colonial Echoes, and Cedar Trails

Then find the other random names you would know in the thinking of hill stations in India. But there is one place, which is quaint and muted in the Himachal Pradesh hills, which speaks nothing of loud attention-hogging but only whispers. For slow travel, peaceful hikes, and nostalgia, Bakloh, hidden with its old-world charms, calm cantonment life, and cedar-hills, is for people who love it.

We are going to detail about Bakloh in this blog - military history, its imperial evocation, and natural beauty in trails - by the end of which you may find yourself thinking about adding this place to your travel list.

A Quick Introduction to Bakloh

A small cantonment town in Chamba District, Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh, is not crowded like well-known tourist spots-and that is the reason it has become such a favorite of many adventurers.

The transfer of Gorkha regiments from the colonial era into post-colonial rule within the Indian army has led to military infrastructure being vouched for in this town, creating an environment where discipline cleanliness and maintenance are noticed just upon arrival. The air is crisp, the pace of town life is slow, and the mountains surrounding make it feel as though one has travelled back to a more silent time.

The Colonial Connection

It was during the mid 1800s when Bakloh came into existence, and that was when it was selected by the Britishers as a base for the Gorkha soldiers. Their officers built here bungalows, churches, and messes, some of which still stand to this day, ensuring that the location looks vintage and old-style. 

You can look out for old stone slopping-roofed houses along narrow lanes lined with tall pines and cedars, the small details that speak of a colonial past. 

Life in the Cantonment

Unlike busy cities, a cantonment like Bakloh feels orderly and peaceful. The roads are well-kept, there is very little noise, and people here live at a slower pace. 

Becoming acquainted with the place may mean seeing neatly dressed soldiers walking around on duty, families taking evening strolls, and school boys and girls cycling around the wider streets. 

This makes the cantonment one of the safest homes at any time for anyone, whether solo or a family person, who just wants to free oneself from crowds and stress.

Nature Trails and Cedar Walks

Among the biggest attractions of Bakloh is its cedar forests. These beautiful trees not only serve as a visual delight but also perfume the air with a fresh, earthy scent. There are various walking trails that cut through these forests. The paths are generally quiet, save for the rustling wind through the branches and the sporadic chirping of birds. You can either opt for a short walk for a casual evening stroll or take longer trails for hours of communion with nature. The cedar-clad hills, in either case, promise to be the perfect escape from city life. 

Things to See and Do in Bakloh

While Bakloh is more of an experience than a checklist of places to see, there are some sites you should check out:

1. St. Peter’s Church

A gorgeous colonial church with simple architecture and a calm aura. Even for the non-religious, its history and calm surroundings make it well worth a visit. 

2. Regimental War Memorials

These memorials pay homage to the brave souls who fought here. They stand as reminders of Bakloh's military exploits."

3. Old Army Mess and Bungalows

You can not enter these all the time, but you can really feel that life was during the British times by looking from outside.

4. Sunset Points

Of all the places in Bakloh, there are a few spots where you can witness the sunset over the hills. Fill in some tea in a thermos and end that slow yet very precious evening.

Local Life and Culture

Bakloh is very small, but it has a very close-knitted and warm community. The Gorkha culture is so intense here — you would hear Nepali being spoken, taste Gorkha dishes from local homes, and possibly, catch hold of a cultural program if you are lucky.

It does sell small markets, but local produce, woolens and some simple joints with momos, thukpa, and chai can be found here. Don't expect any large restaurants -- the town is charmed by these little tea stalls and family-run dhabas.