Himachal Pradesh Travel Guide
About Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh is a tiny hill state whose pleasant summers make it a
popular holiday resort. The Raj still lingers in Shimla, the state capital
and former summer capital during British rule.It came into being in its
present form with the partition of the Punjab into Punjab and Haryana in
1966. High points of Himachal are as follows. The winding roads and high
passes link its high mountains and valleys. While the picturesque valleys of
Kullu and Kangra are a blend of colors. In marked contrast the stark and
barren terrain of Lahaul and Spiti have a stunning lunar and scape like
beauty.
Getting There
Air
The state has three airports at Bhuntar, Gaggal, and Jubbarhatti, which
connect the state to Delhi and Chandigarh via regular flights by Indian
Airlines. There is no international airport in Himachal Pradesh.
Rail
Only few places in Himachal Pradesh are connected by trains, as the
construction of new lines are very difficult in the rugged, high altitude
regions. The longest railway line is from Pathankot in Punjab to
Jogindernagar in Himachal Pradesh. Other railway tracks touch Shimla, Solan,
and Una.
Road
Despite problems in constructing new roads and maintaining them, most of
the important places in the state are connected with a good road network.
Some of the roads are closed during the winter and monsoon seasons due to
the heavy snowfall and landslides that occur regularly in this region.
Fact File
Area : 55,673 sq km
Population : 6,077,248
Religion : Hinduism (95.89 %), Buddhists, Others
Capital : Shimla
Language : Hindi, English and Himachali
Best Time to Visit : March to October
Major Cities : Shimla,
Barog,
Parwanoo,
Chail,
Bilaspur,
Kufri and
Kinnaur.
Tourist Attractions
Kangra
The small town of Kangra was the capital of the erstwhile rulers of the
Chand dynasty. It is set amongst the picturesque settings of the Kangra
valley at the foothills of the majestic Dhauladhar range. The area around
Kangra is known for its ancient temples and picturesque surroundings, which
attract tourists.
Shimla
the capital of Himachal Pradesh and one of India's most famous hill
stations, derives its name from Goddess Shyamala, an incarnation of Goddess
Kali, the deity of power and wrath. However, unlike its name, Shimla is a
perfect heaven for those in search of tranquility. Nature has blessed this
capital city with innumerable gifts and man has used them to make Shimla one
of India's best destinations.
Manali
Manali is 40 Kms from Kulu valley to the north, Manali is situated near the
end of the valley on the National Highway leading to Leh. The landscape is
breath taking as all around it is outlined against the horizon. One sees
well defined snow capped peaks, the Beas river with its clear water
meandering through between the town on the side and on other side are deodar
and pine trees, tiny leveled fields and fruits orchards. It is an excellent
place for a holiday, a favorite starting point for trekkers to Lahaul,
Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba Leh and Zanskar regions in Kashmir valley. It is know
as the Switzerland of India.
Dharamshala
The High snow clad Dhauladhar ranges of the Himalayas from a magnificent
backup to the hill resort of Dharamsala is the principal township of Kangra
district and overlooks the wide spread f the plains. With dense pine and
deodar forests, numerous streams, cool healthy air, attractive surroundings
and the nearby snowline. Dharamsala has everything for a perfect holiday
Chamba
Chamba is Ancient Capital of Pahari Kings situated on the bank of river
Ravi at an altitude of 996 meters. Chamba was founded in 920 AD but King
Sahil Verma who named it after his favourite daughter Champavati. Surrounded
by higher ranges Chamba has preserved the ancient culture and heritage and
Chamba is known for the elegence of its temples and handicrafts.
Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass is the highest point, 4,112m, on the Manali-Keylong road,
51-km from Manali town. It provides a wide panoramic view of mountains
rising far above clouds, which is a sight truly breath-taking. It offers
only limited skiing opportunities, but trekking possibilities are
immense.The pass is open from June to September, although trekkers can cross
the pass from May. Beyond Rohtang pass lies the remote and, perhaps, the
stark and haunting landscape of predominantly Buddhist areas. The
comparative inaccessibility of the place has helped preserve the pristine
culture of the people of the region.
