Himachal Pradesh

About Himachal Pradesh  Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh is a state in the northern portion of India. The state is famous for its scenic hill stations and natural beauty. Himachal Pradesh was earlier a union territory, but was declared as a state in 1971. The state has many perennial rivers. Shimla is its capital city and the languages spoken are Hindi, Dogri, Punjabi, Pahari and more. Tibetan language is also used in the upper Himalayas. The major industries in the state are tourism, agriculture and hydroelectric power. The total area covered by the state is over 55,670 sq. kilometers. Hindus constitute most of the state’s population. Himachal Pradesh is also the second least corrupt state, the first being Kerala. Why Visit the State Himachal Pradesh is one of the most exotic tourist destinations in India. Shimla is the state capital and also was once the summer capital during the British Raj. The city has many tourist spots, such as Jakhoo Hills, Potters Hill, Mall Road, Tara Devi and many more. Bir and Dalhousie are home to many Buddhist monuments and British era buildings. Dharmasala is a thriving centre for the Tibetan community and also is the home of the Dalai Lama. Kullu and Manali are some of the popular hill stations in India and they give you glimpses of the mighty Himalayas. Joginernagar and Keylong are home to some of the most scenic hill stations in the state. Sundernagar, Mandi and Bilaspur are other tourist destinations in the state. The Rewalsar Lake is a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists. Narkanda and Kunjum Pass are two major places on the Hindustan and Tibetan roadway. Exploring the Culture of Himachal Pradesh Himachal Pradesh has a very multicultural, multiregional and multilingual culture. The languages spoken include Pahari, Hindi, Dogri, Gojri, Mandeali Kangri, Kinnauri and Punjabi. The various castes in Himachal Pradesh include Rajputs, Brahmins, Gaddis, Gujjars, Rathis, Kohlis, Kannets and Girth. The tribal population in the state comprise of the Pangawals, Kinnars, Lahaulis and Sulehria. The state is famous for its craft work. Himachali shawls, leather works, carpets, metal ware, paintings and woodwork are well known and the Pashmina shawl is one of the famous works of the Himachali weavers. Almost every household in Himachal Pradesh has a pit-loom. The shawls made in Kullu are widely popular throughout the state. Dharamshala and Kangra are known for the famous Kangra miniature art work. The folk dance and music mirror the cultural identity of Himachal Pradesh. A number of festivals are celebrated in the state apart from the ones that are celebrated all over India. Shimla houses a natural ice skating rink, which is one-of-its-kind in Asia. Some popular dishes in Himachal Pradesh include Chuck, Jhoul, Sidku, Patrode, Pateer, Bhagjery, Mahni, Khatti Dal, Madra, Pahri Aloo, Ambua and more. Adventure tourism is also extremely popular in Himachal Pradesh. Facts for Tourists The climate is generally cold; hence carrying warm clothes is a good option. Shawls and leather clothes are famous in the state and are of good quality. The use of narcotic substances is prohibited and is punishable in the state.