Travel-India

Himachal Pradesh

The state of Himachal Pradesh (H.P) is situated in Northwest India and is one of the most popular states amongst the tourists who want to soak in the enthralling beauty of nature.

Bordered by Jammu and Kashmir on north, Punjab on west and southwest, Haryana on South, Uttar Pradesh on southeast and China on the east, Himachal Pradesh has distinct culture of its own and the rich cultural heritage is hard to miss as one ventures into this beautiful expansive valley situated in the Western Himalayas.

Himachal Pradesh is endowed with all one can ask for to have a wonderful relaxing holiday in refreshing environs which work as almond soup for the soul.

Himachal Pradesh has a no. of hill-stations, a few of which are popular tourist destinations in India and are thronged by visitors throughout the year while the others sit quiet and pretty waiting to be explored.

Few of the most popular hill-stations in Himachal Pradesh are Shimla, Kullu, Manali and Dalhousie.

Rest, Recoup and Re-energize in Himachal Pradesh

The geographical diversity of the state opens a plethora of options for the visitors. Lush green meadows and wide valleys surrounded by snow clad mountains form a sight to behold! While many simply immerse in the beauty of the nature, the height and contours of these majestic mountains beckon many other tourists to go mountain cycling, paragliding or mountaineering.

Flowing rivers, gurgling streams and crystal clear lakes captivate one and all! One can simply sit around and let the hours pass by or one can enjoy the thrill of water sports like river rafting, water skiing, surfing, kayaking, swimming, canoeing or sailing.

Deep woods and long trekking trails tempt the adventure enthusiasts to go around trekking exploring the unexplored.

Forts and palaces in Himachal Pradesh

History has left a long trail behind in the form of various forts and palaces which dot this beautiful state enriching its allure.

Shrines or Places of worship in Himachal Pradesh

The people of Himachal Pradesh have always been and still are strong believers of God. Many towns or sub-regions have their own local deities who are revered and worshipped with whole hearted dedication and are offered prayers with unique customs and rituals.

Innumerable temples and places of worship, which are spread densely across the state, stand as concrete evidence of the faith and belief of the masses in various deities and Gods.

Himachal Pradesh, which is also known as Devabhoomi (Abode of the Gods), is home to a number of important pilgrimages which are thronged by thousands of believers from all over the country throughout the year.

A few of the famous pilgrimage spots in the state are Baijnath temple, Jwalamukhi, Laxmi Narayan Temple, Paonta Sahib Gurudwara, Manikaran and Tabo Monastery.

Wildlife in Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh is a place to be in for nature enthusiasts. Currently, Himachal Pradesh is home to 32 wildlife sanctuaries, two national parks and three game reserves.

Fairs and Festivals of Himachal Pradesh

The vibrant state of Himachal Pradesh celebrates a no. of fairs and festivals throughout the year. Few of the most important festivals are:

Kullu Dussehra which marks the victory of good over evil with the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after killing demon king Ravana, Basant Panchami which celebrates the augment of spring with innumerable colourful kites soaring high in the sky, Shivratri which is a grand affair at popular Baijnath temple and Durga Ashtami which is celebrated in all the Shakti temples.

The state also hosts a no. of fairs annually which pulls hordes of visitors every year. Few of the important fairs celebrated in Himachal Pradesh are:

Phulaich/Ookayand, which means The Festival of Flowers, is celebrated primarily in Kinnaur district. With beautiful wide collection of colourful flowers on display, Phulaich is a delight to attend.

Also, a fair is held in the memory of Baba Barbhag Singh, a sage said to have magical powers. Few of the other important festivals and fairs celebrated in Himachal Pradesh are National Snow Statue competition at Kufri, Ice-skating festival in Shimla, Skiing competition in Solang valley, Holi, Baisakhi and Navratri.