Himachal Pradesh literally "Snow-ladden Region") is a state in Northern India. Its area is 21,495 sq m (55,670 km), and is bordered by Jammu and Kashmir on the north, Punjab on the west, Haryana on the south-west, Uttarakhand on the south-east and by the Tibet Autonomous Region on the east.
Himachal Pradesh is famous for its abundant natural beauty.After the war between Nepal and Britain, also known as the Anglo-Gorkha War (1814–1816), the British colonial government came into power and the land now comprising Himachal Pradesh became part of the Punjab Province of British India. In 1950 Himachal was declared a union territory, but after the State of Himachal Pradesh Act 1971, Himachal emerged as the 18th state of the Republic of India. Hima means snow in Sanskrit, and the literal meaning of the state's name is In the lap of Himalayas. It was named by Acharya Diwakar Datt Sharma, one of the great Sanskrit scholars of Himachal Pradesh.
The economy of Himachal Pradesh is currently the third fastest growing economy in India. Himachal Pradesh has been ranked fourth in the list of the highest per capita incomes of Indian states. This has made Himachal Pradesh one of the most wealthiest places in entire South Asia. Abundance of perennial rivers enables Himachal to sell hydroelectricity to other states such as Delhi, Punjab and Rajasthan. The economy of the state is highly dependent on three sources: hydroelectric power, tourism and agriculture.
Himachal Pradesh is spread across valleys and 90% of the population lives in villages and towns. However the state has achieved 100% hygiene and practically no single house without a toilet. The villages are well connected to roads, Public Health Center and now with Lokmitra kendra using High speed broadband. Shimla district has maximum urban population of 25%. According to a 2005 Transparency International survey, Himachal Pradesh is ranked the second-least corrupt state in the country after Kerala.The hill stations of the state are among the most visited places in country. The government has successfully imposed environmental protection and tourism development meeting European standards and it is the only state which forbids the use of polythene and tobacco products.
| Languages | : | Pahari,Hindi. |
| When to Visit | : | April-October, Winter: December-February. |
| Climate | : | Summer: 33c to 14c Winter: 15c to 0c Monsoon: July to September |
| Festivals | : | Minja Mela (April), Dassera (September/October), Jawala Mukhi Mela(October) |
The spectacular beauty of Chamba has made this place dear to nature lovers. Located on the banks of River Ravi and at an altitude of over 900 meters above sea level, Chamba makes an excellent holiday retreat. Here are some important destinations in Chamba.
Retaining not only the colonial looks but also the name,Dalhousie, was named after Lord Dalhousie, who was the British governor in the 19th century. This hill station is spread across five hills. The varying altitudes of the land have a wide range of vegetation including pine, oak and deodar. Here are the leading attractions in Dalhousie.
The Scotland of India’, as Dharamshala is famously referred to, has snow-clad mountains on three sides and valley on one side. The mountains being over 4000 m height, you can have an excellent view of them from every viewpoint. Pine trees and tree gardens along with snow covered mountains render magic to the air. Here are some top attractions in Dharamshala.
Being in the lower elevation,Hamirpur is warmer. The altitudes vary from near flat lands to higher levels of land that reach up to the heights of cliffs. The hilly ranges here offer great scope for trekking. The land is said to be the most literate district in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Given below are some of the tourist attractions in Hamirpur.
One of the scenic valleys in Himachal Pradesh,Kangra, is not just rich in nature but also in history and culture. It has a rich past, which could be gauged by the fact that its name is mentioned in the epic Mahabharata. This picturesque valley has some of the beautiful attractions to offer.
Kasauli is situated at an altitude of 1927 meters and like a few other places in Himachal Pradesh, reflects the influence of colonial rule. The views from here are spectacular. The serenity of the place is enchanting. Here are some top attractions in Kasauli.
Kullu in Himachal Pradesh is one of the most frequented tourist destinations. Often heard along with the name Manali, yet another famous tourist spot, Kullu is situated on the banks of Beas River. It was earlier called as Kulanthpitha, meaning ‘The end of the habitable world’. Awe-inspiring, right? Kullu valley is also known as the ‘Valley of Gods’. Here are some leading destinations in the magical land.
The attractions in Kullu are more. Trekking, mountaineering, angling, skiing, white water rafting and para gliding are some of the adventurous sports available here.
Located at an altitude of 6726 feet,Manali offers splendid views of the snow-capped mountains. The land is not just a feast to your visual senses; it also offers you the chance to ascertain your fitness level with the sporting facilities here. Given below are some top destinations in Manali for you to enjoy and bring out the adventurer in you.
Parwanoo, surrounded by hills is yet another beautiful hill station in the land. The town, surrounded by lush greenery, lies near the border of Haryana and hence, it is a convenient location from where you could visit many tourist attractions nearby. Here are some of the tourist attractions in and around Parwanoo.
At an altitude of 2000 feet,Pragpur, the first heritage village in India, offers spectacular views of Kangra Valley. Everything about Pragpur is interesting; natural beauty, rich culture, historical importance, friendly climate, beautiful greenery, easy access and anything you would consider when you travel to a place. Leading destinations in Pragpur include:
Apart from visits to these places, you can indulge yourself in trekking, bird watching and fishing.
The enchanting beauty of Shimla made British declare the land as their summer capital. The colonial influence is still evident in the city. The hill station offers spectacular views of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges. With lakes and rich greenery around, Simla welcomes tourists round the year, of course, if you don’t mind the ‘below zero’ temperature in winter. Here are the leading destinations in Simla.
Sirmaur is located on the south-eastern part of the state. The district is famous for its peach, which is from Rajgarh region, famously called the Peach Bowl. Fossils aging 85 million years have been found here. Every one of the destinations here is important and interesting.
Solan, famously called ‘The mushroom city of India’, is a beautiful city located amidst scenic snow-clad mountains and forests. Mushroom farming being very extensive here, the land is named thus. It is a great place for trekking and it is heaven for those who love to feel oneness with nature. Here are the top attractions in Solan.
Taragarh is one of the most picturesque areas in the land of Himachal Pradesh and not much explored too. Lying on the foot of Dhauladhar Mountains, Taragarh offers spectacular views of the snow-clad peaks around. The tourist destinations here are few but you have a good deal of sporting activities. Check what you can do here:
Annual international competitions in para gliding and hang gliding are held here.
At an elevation of 1210 feet, the hottest district in the state,Una, is referred to as the Gateway to Himalayas. The land seems an exception in Himachal Pradesh, where most of the cities are in the hilly region. If you intend to visit the place in summer, you need to have cotton clothes to make your stay comfortable. Here are the destinations in Una.
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