For years now, the popular hill station of Shimla has occupied pride of place in the list of getaways for thousands of families from the vast plains of north India. But with colossal numbers of tourists thronging to it from every corner of the country, and with their numbers increasing every year, many travellers are now opting to stay away from the maddening crowds of Shimla, yet close enough to visit it when its British-era charm calls. Quaint little hamlets in the hills nearby are thus emerging as rewarding alternatives for a weekend trip. Kandaghat, situated at a distance of 30 kms before Shimla on National Highway 22, is one among them.