Himachal Pradesh Tourism
Himachal Pradesh travel is a must for an avid traveler, especially for someone who loves mountains. The world's largest and highest mountain range; Himalayas traverse through the state of Himachal Pradesh. This state is one of the top tourist destinations of India with enchanting and picturesque hill stations.
The winters are extremely chill but summers are warm in Himachal Pradesh, India. The best time to visit Himachal Pradesh is during spring, which extends from February to April.
The enchanting hilly region Himachal Pradesh has a rich and varied history. The most astounding fact the historians have discovered is that about 2 millions years ago prehistoric men lived in the regions of Kangra and Sirsa valleys.
References also abound in the Vedas, the Mahabharata and other ancient literatures and myths. Since then the regions has seen through many ups and downs of Indian history. Once Himachal Pradesh became a state in 1950, Shimla, once the summer capital of the British India, became its capital.
Facts about Himachal Pradesh | |
Location | Northern part of India Tibet to the east, Jammu and Kashmir to the north and northwest Punjab to the southwest, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to the south Uttaranchal to the southeast |
Latitude | 30022' to 33012' North |
Longitude | 75045' to 79004' East |
Area | 55,673 sq. km |
Climate | Summer - cool Winter - cold, sometimes freezing |
Max Temperature | 300 C |
Min Temperature | 20 C |
Average Annual Rainfall | 147 cms. |
Capital | Shimla |
Population | 6,077,248 |
Languages | Hindi, English, Pahari |
Religion | Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism |
Best Time to Visit | April to June |
Clothing | Summer - Light Cottons Winter - Heavy Woolens |
How to Reach Himachal Pradesh
The state of Himachal Pradesh is one of the preferred places of recreation and tourist interest in India. It lies calmly on the foothills of the Himalayas. Increase in the tourist activity has led to the growth of communication network in the state.
The state is easily accessible from any part of the country and how to reach Himachal Pradesh is not a problem.
By Air
The state of Himachal Pradesh has three airports located at Bhuntar near Kullu and Manali, Gaggal Airport near Dharamshala and Jubbarhatti Airport near Shimla.
By Train
The state has railway station in all the major cities. The railway stations at Shimla, Jammu, Palampur are particularly popular and receive trains from all parts of the country.
Note: There are no direct trains to Himachal from Mumbai, Kolkata or other important cities of the country. One needs to change trains at New Delhi.
By Road
The state has a well developed network of roads and is connected to all the major cities of the North India. Chandigarh is located at a distance of only 117 kms whereas; Delhi is situated at a distance of 343 km.
One needs to travel 151 km to reach the city of Ambala. Himachal Pradesh Road Transport (HRTC) runs several buses to and from the state to the neighbouring cities and states. National Highway 1-A, National Highway-20, National Highway 21, National Highway 21-A, National Highway-22, National Highway-70, National Highway -72, National Highway73-A and National Highway 88 connect to the state of Himachal Pradesh.
Shopping in Himachal Pradesh
Like any other destination, Himachal Pradesh also has its share of fame in local handicrafts and curios. For the avid shopper, there are lots of opportunities for shopping in Himachal Pradesh. In any destination of the state you can go shopping in Himachal Pradesh.
The Tibetan traders have exquisite variety of handicrafts and handlooms. The soft wool products sold by them are all time hits with those who are interested in shopping in Himachal Pradesh.
While shopping in Himachal Pradesh you can check out the following items:
- Kullu shawls, Himachal caps
- Tibetan Carpets
- Woolen pullovers, jackets, cardigans, gloves
- Apples, pickles, jams and juices
- Buddhist paintings on cloth
- Metalware
- Silver and turquoise jewellery
- Mailing postcards with Buddhist and Hindu motifs
Tibetan bazaars are also good place for shopping in Himachal Pradesh. Street-side stalls spring up in the evening offering variety and good bargain.
While shopping in Himachal Pradesh you must be aware of frauds trying dispose of fake items as original ones at a higher price.
Last Updated on: September 30, 2022
Flights to Himachal Pradesh
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