About Himachal Pradesh
Himachal
Pradesh is a captivating region of the Indian Himalayas. It is often
referred to as the "Magical Showcase of Nature's Splendor" ideal
for the travelers to travel, enjoy and relax. Abundant green grassland and
wide valleys set against imposing snow-clad mountains; crystal clear lakes,
flowing rivers and spurting streams a captivating region of the Indian
Himalayas.
Location
Himachal Pradesh has boundaries with the Jammu and Kashmir in the North,
Uttararanchal in the Southeast, Haryana in the South and Punjab in the West.
People and Lifestyle
Traditionally majority of people consists of the Hindus. The main
communities are Brahmins, Rajputs, Kannets, Rathis and Kolis. The tribal
population of the state comprise of the Gaddis, Kinnars, Gujjars, Pangawals
and Lahaulis. The Gaddis are the traditional shepherds .
Himachal is mainly religion-oriented, where gods are invoked during the
festivals by singing and dancing. This practice of praising God has
continued since ancient times. The major dance of the state are the Rakshasa
(demon) dance, the Kayang Dance, the Bakayang dance. The bonfires of Lohri,
a festival to mark the sowing of the Rabi crop light up the night sky on
January 13 every year.
Places of Interest in Himachal Pradesh
Kullu Valley
Kullu is known for its ancient temples, apple orchards and the annual
Dusshera Festival. Kullu is also famous for its handicrafts and woolens like
shawl, caps, puhla, namdas and patoos The rich greenery of the Kullu valley
along with bare, brown mountains, glaciers and snow fields gives it a
charming look.. The place looks lovely in the crisp sunlight.
The Chamba Town
The town is well known for its medieval temples and Chaugan, a public
promenade. The architecture of the buildings of Chamba reflects the aura of
its former rulers. Chamba is also famous for its local festivals.
Important Cities in Himachal Pradesh
Shimla
Shimla
also spelt as 'Simla' derives its name from goddess 'Shayamla Devi', which
is another manifestation of Goddess Kali. Shimla is one of the few places in
the world where an enormous amount of history and heritage has been
distilled into such a small place in so short a time.The Mall, Kufri,
Viceregal Lodge are some of the attractions in shimla.
Dharamshala
Dharamshala stands at the foot of snow wrapped lofty Dhauladhar ranges and
offers a magnificent view of snowy peaks, deodar and pine forests ,tea
gardens and beautiful hills . At a short distance. from Dharamshala, the
church lies amidst the deodar forest between Mcleod Ganj and Forsyth Ganj.
The church houses a monument dedicated to Lord Elgin, one of the viceroys of
India,
Pilgrimage in Himachal Pradesh
The remote valleys of Lahaul, Spiti and Kinnaur have strong Buddhist
traditions. Splendid gompas, Buddhist monasteries, built along bare
mountain-sides seem to be a part of the rugged terrain. These are the
repositories of a wealth of Buddhist art and culture. In Dharamsala, where
the Dalai Lama has settled in exile, is a marvelous Tibetan township where
an entire cultural tradition is being nurtured. It is a centre that attracts
scholars, pilgrims and tourists.
How to reach
By Air : There are three airports in the state of
Himachal Pradesh. They are at Bhuntar, Gaggal and Jubbarhatti. The air
routes connect the state with Delhi and Chandigarh.
By Rail : The Pathankot-Jogindernagar line is the longest
railway line connecting Punjab with Himachal Pradesh. The other railway
tracks pass through Shimla, Solan and Una. Shimla is connected with Kalka by
a narrow gauge railway line, which in turn is connected with the major
cities in India.
By Road : Most of the important places of Himachal
Pradesh are well connected with the roadways. Few of the roads get closed
during winters and monsoon seasons due to snowfall and landslides. Regular
bus services connect Shimla with Chandigarh, Kullu, Manali, Delhi
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