Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh is a northern Indian state in the Himalayas. It's home to scenic mountain towns and resorts such as Dalhousie. Host to the Dalai Lama, Himachal Pradesh has a strong Tibetan presence. This is reflected in its Buddhist temples and monasteries, as well as its vibrant Tibetan New Year celebrations. The region is also well known for its trekking, climbing and skiing areas.

Himachal Pradesh is a pristine North Indian destination that would be in the bucket list of travellers of all kinds. Embellished with religious sites, shimmering lakes, sprawling apple farms, ancient monasteries and historical heritage sites, while offering numerous adventure activities, Himachal Pradesh boasts myriad of tourist places which make one fall in love with it. Himachal Pradesh Tourism isn’t just about the natural beauty but also the rich cultural extravaganza that can be best witnessed in its handicrafts, fairs and festivals, dance and music, delectable cuisine and more. The state is a world in itself and one needs to visit it to witness and believe the beauty of this much-celebrated tourism destination of India.

Capital: Shimla 

Location: Northern India

BEST TIME TO VISIT HIMACHAL PRADESH:

A trip to Himachal Pradesh can be planned all throughout the year depending on what the tourists want to explore.

WHY VISIT HIMACHAL PRADESH?

For pristine natural beauty, ancient monasteries and temples, adventure activities, unique art and craft, delectable cuisine, dance and music and exotic honeymoon destinations.

Himachal Pradesh is one of the much-admired and praised tourist destinations in India. Nestled between the snow-capped Himalayan ranges in North India, the state calls tourists from far and near to enjoy a holiday in India, the memories of which cling on for a lifetime. The major enticement for tourists lies in the splendid mountains, pristine valleys.

Some of the popular lakes of Himachal Pradesh include Renuka Lake, Rewalsar Lake, Prashar Lake in Mandi; Suraj Tal Lake and Chandratal Lake in Lahaul and Spiti. These lakes are nestled high above in the mountains and offer a breathtaking and panoramic view of the Great Himalayas.

Every occasion is celebrated with much pomp and fervour and is no less than a grand extravaganza. Some of the local fairs and festivals of the state include Phulaich/Flaich in Kinnaur, Chrewal, Lavi Fair, Minjar Mela in Chamba and winter carnival. During these celebrations, tourists are also introduced to the various dance forms of Himachal with the popular ones being, Cham Dance (mask dance), Rakshasa (demon), Kayang, Chihara, Bnayangchu, Chhanak Chham, Bakayang, Jataru Kayang, Shand and Shabu.

Pilgrims and tourists like to visit Manikaran Gurudwara to take a holy dip in the sulphur hot water, in the belief that it will relieve them from all types of skin problems. Besides this, the state is an abode of seven incarnations of Goddess Durga and has seven temples dedicated to them. These are, Mata Chamunda Devi Temple, Mata Jwala Ji Temple, Bajreshwari Mata Temple (Maa Kangra), Chinmastika Shaktipeeth Maa Chintpurni Temple, Mata Naina Devi Bhawan, Shri Mata Mansa Devi Temple, and Mata Kalika Devi Temple.

An ideal holiday in Himachal Pradesh would mean exploring the ancient monasteries, temples, churches and gurudwaras. Tourists can explore some of the splendid monasteries in Kangra, Dharamshala (home to His Holiness the Dalai Lama), and Lahaul and Spiti. Be it a history buff or a spiritual seeker, the churches of Shimla offer a soothing retreat to the soul. The must-visit churches Himachal Pradesh are Christ Church in Shimla, St John in the Wilderness Church in Dharamshala and St John’s Church in Dalhousie.

A trip to Himachal Pradesh will not only be a feast for the eyes but also do wonders to the taste buds. Majority cuisines of Himachal Pradesh have Tibetan influence, especially in the highlands of Kinnar, Lahaul and Spiti. Siddu, a steamed stuffed burger is one of the popular dishes of the state. Other locally popular must-try food include Patande of Sirmaur, Sepu Vadi of Mandi, Babru and Nasastha of Shimla and Khatta Karai of Kangra, and parts of Mandi.