Only a few places on earth can boast of nature, culture and spirituality all in one place. And when we talk of beautiful mountains having a unique charisma with pious shrines, waterfalls and enigmatic meadows, Himachal Pradesh in India certainly comes to mind. The fascinating landscape presents an exquisite place of rugged snow peaks, deep gorges, lush green valleys, flowery meadows, misty woods, flowing icy rivers, glaciers, shimmering lakes, spectacular waterfalls and enthralling lakes. Indeed, the raw natural beauty is manifested in one of the most charismatic ways in the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, luring tourists nationally and internationally.
Himachal Pradesh is a scenic abode to witness the pristine landscapes, an adventure lover's paradise, and one of India's most famous pilgrimage places. Explore the picturesque valleys of Kullu, Kinnaur and Kangra or take a trek through the barren terrains of Lahaul and Spiti. Revel in the profound influences of Buddhist and Tibetan culture in Dharamshala or visit the world-famous Hindu shrines. The colourful tradition has often lent the name of 'Dev Bhoomi' to 'Abode of Gods' to Himachal as it hosts various places of worship for people of multiple religions. Around 2000, gods and goddesses were worshipped in Himachal, and numerous festivals were celebrated in their honour. Some of the most exciting festivals and fairs celebrated in Himachal are Phulaich/Flaich, Dussehra, Navratras, Rakhi, Chrewal, Lavi Fair, Minjar Mela, Winter Carnival, etc. Himachal offers a lot to shopping lovers who can hang around the markets and find the most exquisite Tibetan carpets, handicrafts, shawls, preserves and pickles, toys, wooden articles, semi-precious jewellery, and baskets. Other famous sports practised in Himachal Pradesh are archery, paragliding, hang gliding, camping, mountain cycling, rafting etc.
Human life is about making memories – ones you will cherish forever and ones that will leave you choked with emotions. And if there is one place in India that will give you unlimited memories and a major part of you behind, it is Himachal Pradesh. The land of the majestic mountains, the Himalayas, will stir emotions like no other place on earth. You'll realizerealizerealize there's something more than just the snow-capped peaks and the blue horizons. As you enter the site, you will notice that the roads are waiting to tell you a story and that each hairpin bend welcomes you with rewarding views of the mountains and valleys. The apple orchards that cross you make you wonder about God's mysterious ways of wrapping beauty in some of the most miniature creations.
When you reach your hotel, the smile on the locals' faces will show you what hospitality is and that everyone in Himachal Pradesh is going the extra mile to create beautiful moments for you. From fun-in-the-crowd moments to your intimate rendezvous with the mountains and pristine streams arising out of them, you'll realizerealizerealize that you've found another a thousand miles away from home. The majestic peaks are talking to you about staying rooted despite touching the sky, and the lush green terrain explaining to you the significance of spreading happiness wherever you go will leave you speechless and make you realizerealizerealize these are the things that make life worth living.
Himachal Pradesh is for you – the land of valleys, mountains, apple orchards, monasteries, mysticism and enchantment.
The history of Himachal Pradesh goes back to the times of one of the first known civilization – the Indus Valley Civilization, which is between 2250 B.C. and 1750 B.C. Was the time, the province was inhabited by tribes Haili, Dagi, Khasa, Kinnar, Koili, Dhaugri and more. It was not until the Vedic period that the area came under the view of the Gupta dynasty, especially Harshavardhana when he conquered several regions and set up Janapadas or small republics and passed them over to local chieftains.
Though these republics or kingdoms enjoyed substantial independence, they were also subject to frequent invasions and conquering by Sikander Lodi, Mahmud Ghazvi and Timur. They also fell to the Mughals, paying tributes regularly to the Mughal rulers.
During the British rule, the then rulers of the province went head on head with the British in the Tarai belt region, briefly after which they ended up getting expelled from the Sutlej Provinces. When the first revolt against the British broke out in 1857, the area remained inactive and uninvolved, with exceptions from very few provinces. A few states like Bilaspur, Mandi and Chamba made significant progress under British rule. During World War I, most state rulers showed loyalty to their businesses by providing them with materials and men.
There is much to do and see in Himachal Pradesh, and tourism in Himachal offers you numerous opportunities to do exactly that which your heart desires. You can choose to rest and enjoy its breathtaking beauty. Or you can spend a romantic escape with the love of your life. Perhaps you wish to heed the spiritual call and find yourself. Or, if you are an adventure junkie, the many winter sports choices are what will create the perfect holiday for you.
Once you know what you wish to do in Himachal is simply a question of planning your itinerary. Along with some of the more famous destinations like Kullu-Manali, Shimla, Dalhousie and Dharamshala, do go on an offbeat vacation by choosing one of these unexplored places:
- Bir Bilpng
- Malana
- Spiti + Tabo + Kaza
- Khajjiar
- Mashobra
- Kinnaur
- Chail
- McLeod Ganj
Himachal Pradesh is also comprehended as the Land of the Gods. Nearly every town has its deity, and each has a rich mythological past. These sacred sanctums attract devotees from across the world and also contribute to tourism. When in Himachal, try to visit these popular places of worship, among others.
- Sankat Mochan Temple
- Tara Devi Temple
- Hidimba Temple
- Nahar Singh Dhaulra
- Vyas Gufa
- Bhootnath Temple
The jungles of Himachal Pradesh offer an unparalleled wildlife experience simply because of the presence of rare wild animals indigenous to this region. The state has numerous national parks and sanctuaries where you can get a glimpse of these feral creatures. Add these great sanctuaries to your itinerary.
- Kalatop-Khajjiar Sanctuary
-- Daranghati Sanctuary
-- Pin Valley National Park
-- Chail Sanctuary
-- Maharana Pratap Sagar Sanctuary
-- Great Himalayan National Park
-- Shri Naina Devi Sanctuary
-Himachal Pradesh is a fine example of the arts and culture of the hilly areas of India. Its unique topography means it has developed its distinct style of handicrafts that can be spotted across the state. Travel anywhere in Himachal Pradesh, and you should be able to pick up some fantastic pieces of this beautiful land.
- Leathercraft
- Embroidery
- Paintings
- Carpets
- Shawls
- Metalwork
- Stonework
- Rugs
- Woodcrafts
- Traditional Jewellery
Himachal tourism also offers a long list of dances performed for various occasions, many in front of temples and their presiding deity. People dress up in traditional finery and dance to their heart's content.
- Gugga Dance
- Jhamakada Dance
- Enchanting Lahaup Dance
- Church
- Sandras
- Thoda dance
- Kullu Natti
The people of Himachal Pradesh love festivities, and there is a cause to dance, feast and celebrate life every day. Do not miss the many fairs and festivals of the state and enjoy the elaborate rituals and traditions unique to this region.
- Lohri or Maghi Festival
- Losar Festival
- Halda Festival
- Basant Panchami
- Dusshera
- Phulaich Festival
- Summer Festival
Himachal Pradesh has a distinct flavour that is captured brilliantly in its cuisine. Whether you eat at a street joint or sit down at any of the genuine cafes, you will taste the heart and soul of Himachal in the food. You cannot miss typical dishes in Himachal Pradesh, including the dhaam, chana madra, kale channe ka that, tudkiya bath, spicy lotus stems, siddur, baby, actor, chha gosht, Kullu trout fish and of course the Tibetan dishes. End your sumptuous meal with Martha, a preparation of sweetened rice and dry fruits.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site Kalka-Shimla Express runs through 806 bridges, 103 tunnels and 18 stations along its 96 km journey.
At Malana, 'The Village of Taboos', strangers are not allowed to touch any wall or belonging of the residents.
Almost every village in Himachal Pradesh has its gods and goddesses.
Asia's only naturalistic ice-skating rink is found at Shimla.
The town of Jhajjar has a lake with a floating island right in its center.
Himachal tourism has always attracted tourists due to its ideal location, as it is strategically located for travellers. It is not too far up north nor too low for those who want to experience the vibe of hill stations without going very high up in the hills.
Himachal translates as the 'abode of snow, and true to its name, it is indeed the place where you can engage yourself in admiring the mesmerizing views of the snow-capped mountains.
Valleys like the Spiti Valley and Lahaul are places you need to see and experience independently.
Many rivers pass through Himachal Pradesh: the Ravi, the Beas, the Chenab, the Sutlej, and the Yamuna. Since there is a lot to explore in this paradise land, we have carefully crafted this Himachal tourism guide to assure you experience the best of the destination and don't miss out on the highlight of this destination. So go on and craft a perfect holiday experience by going through all the details mentioned in this detailed guide to Himachal that are necessary to plan an excellent holiday Himachal. Just go through this extensive and detailed Himachal tour guide to ensure you don't miss out on fantastic experiences while travelling to Himachal.
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