Shimla

Himachal Pradesh – The Land of Gods

13 May

Himachal Pradesh is one of the most beautiful states in the Western Himalayas. People from all over the world throng to witness such beauty. The advancement in tourism has been a recent introduction to this mesmerizing valley. In earlier times, farming was the main source of income.

A tour to Himachal lets one witness lush meadows, huge glaciers, thunderous rivers, unique wildlife and vast forest cover along with the majestic mountains. Himachal is also known as the Fruit Bowl of India. The land showcases extreme diversity in culture, dialect and landscape. Manali, Shimla, Dharamshala and Dalhousie attract visitors throughout the year.

The Spirit of Himachal

Himachal means different things to different people. Some come to enjoy snowfall and winter adventure activities, others visit to relax and reconnect with themselves on a spiritual journey.

Couples seek blessings from various deities, youngsters explore jungles through trekking and camping, and many foreigners who fell in love with Himachal have settled here. In essence, Himachal Pradesh is a unique blend of traditions, heritage, art, architecture and modern lifestyle.

Geographical Diversity of Himachal

Himachal Pradesh is divided into many valleys according to geography and demographics. The Chamba Valley is famous for Bharmaur, Dalhousie and Khajjiar. Kangra Valley is known for its rich heritage and tea gardens.

Dharamshala, Baijnath and Palampur are major attractions. McLeod Ganj is world-famous as the seat of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Kullu Valley, also known as the Apple Valley, is popular for religious and winter sports. Lahaul–Spiti has recently gained popularity among young travelers for its raw landscapes.

Famous Personalities from Himachal

• Nicholas Roerich – Russian painter, writer and philosopher
• Preity Zinta – Indian Bollywood Actor
• Captain Vikram Batra – Martyred Indian Army Officer
• Anupam Kher – Indian Bollywood Actor
• Sardar Shobha Singh – World-famous artist
• The Great Khali – WWE Wrestler
• His Holiness the Dalai Lama – Nobel Peace Prize Winner
• Kangana Ranaut – Indian Bollywood Actor
• Mohit Chauhan – Bollywood Singer
• Rubina Dilaik – Television Personality
• Yami Gautam – Indian Bollywood Actor

How to Reach Himachal Pradesh

Air Travel

• Bhuntar Airport – Kullu (Manali Valley)
• Gaggal Airport – Kangra (Dharamshala Valley)
• Shimla Airport

Train Travel

• Kalka – Shimla Toy Train (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Pathankot – Jogindernagar Railway Line

Road Travel

Himachal is best explored by road and is well connected by National and State Highways. Volvo buses, private cabs, tempo travelers and bikes on hire are popular options.

Best Time to Visit Himachal

Winter Destinations

• Manali
• Solang Valley
• Kufri
• Shimla
• Narkanda
• Chail
• Dharamshala

Summer Destinations

• Rohtang Pass
• Dalhousie
• Spiti Valley
• Kasauli
• Kinnaur
• Bir Billing
• Chamba Valley

Note: Avoid bike rides during the monsoon season.

Things To Do in Himachal

• Paragliding
• Trekking & Camping
• White Water Rafting
• Mountain Biking
• Skiing & Ice Skating
• Jeep Safari
• Rock Climbing & Rappelling
• River Crossing

Nature & Wildlife

Himachal boasts the Great Himalayan National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Pin Valley National Park and over 30 wildlife sanctuaries. It is home to the Snow Leopard, over 460 bird species and rich biodiversity.

Heritage & Architecture

• Hadimba Devi Temple – Manali
• Kangra Fort – Kangra
• Key Monastery – Spiti Valley
• Jwala Devi Temple – Kangra
• Naggar Castle – Naggar
• Masrur Temples – Kangra
• Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib – Manikaran

Amazing Facts About Himachal Pradesh

• Asia’s largest glacier is found in Lahaul–Spiti
• Malana Village follows unique ancient traditions
• Known as the Land of Gods
• Traces of Ramayana and Mahabharata found here
• Asia’s only natural ice-skating rink is in Shimla