Himachal Pradesh was acknowledged as the 18Th Indian state in the year 1971. Often termed as a traveler’s paradise, the state is home to India’s most iconic scenery, thanks to its strategic location in the North-Western part of the breathtaking Himalayas. The state is sandwiched between Kashmir and Jammu in the north, Punjab to the east and the Tibetan plateau to the west. The state’s strategic geographical location sets it apart regarding its natural topography and pristine beauty. Visitors to Himachal Pradesh treated to a rare display of religious sites, local handicrafts, cultural events, beautiful scenery that has for decades defined the state and other exciting activities.
Regarding cultural wealth, Himachal Pradesh is the epicentre of cultural diversity. There are about two thousand goddesses and gods that are worshipped in Himachal. Festivals celebrated to honour the deities are nothing short of pomp and colour. Music and dance are an integral part of any celebrations, and as such, there are various forms of dance recognized in the state.
These include:
– Chham dance.
– Chhak Chham.
– Bakayang.
– Rakshasa.
– Shand.
– Bnayangchu.
– Shabu, and more brilliantly articulated dances.
Himachal Pradesh is also home to numerous heritage sights worthy of UNESCO recognition. Many Buddhist monasteries, forts, and palaces are of both cultural and historical significance. Other heritage sites include prominent residences such as the Dalai Lama’s abode. Travelling visitors can access most sites of historical significance and have for the longest time now been a major tourist draw to Himachal Pradesh.
Being a cultural and religious diversity hotspot, Himachal has been called home by millions of people from different cultural, ethnic and more significantly religious backgrounds. The state recognizes and equally respects every religion practised, which includes, Sikhism, Hinduism, Christianity and much more.The cultural and religious beliefs of Himachal’s residents are as colourful as they are diverse. This melting pot of cultures, legends, and beliefs forms the main attraction for guests and travellers.
The natural scenery and landscape of Himachal are perhaps the biggest attraction to tourists. The state is home to lush expanses of land, constantly abbreviated by manicured trees and a refreshing view of the Himalayas.
One word, paradise!
The lofty hills, snow capped mountains are but a small tip of the iceberg. Himachal has several shimmering lakes located high above the mountainous ranges and acres upon acres of luscious forested land.
A host of other tourist destinations exists in Himachal Pradesh. They are as follows:
1. Kullu Manali
This top-rated Indian tourist destination is a high altitude resort town located in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Manali is considered a gateway for numerous high-octane activities such as skiing, white water rafting, paragliding, and mountaineering. This destination also attracts honeymoon goers, backpackers, and travellers looking to relax in a serene, high altitude location overlooking the majestic Himalayas. Popular areas frequented by tourists in Manali include:
• Rohtang Pass; located at an altitude of 4000M, this site is popular for paragliding and skiing adventures.
• Hidimba Devi Temple; a famous Hindu temple built in the lush forests.
• Bhrigu Lake; a backpacker’s destination.
2. Nainital
Nainital, a popular tourist destination built around the Nainital lake, is another Himalayan resort town built at an altitude of about 2000 meters.The town is a popular boating destination thanks to its pear-shaped lake that is roughly two miles around its circumference. The town also packs several other attractions. Nainital has a previous history of being a British Hill station and is an administrative capital for the district of Nainital. A Hindu temple, the Naina Devi Temple is located along the shores of the town’s lake, adding a touch of culture and religions to scenic beauty. The city’s cave gardens attract some tourists seeking a botanical thrill.
3. Khajjiar
Nicknamed the mini Switzerland of India, Khajjiar is a hill station located on a small plateau. It is Located at 2000 meters above sea level; the hill station bordered by an expanse of forests and lush meadows. What makes Khajjiar a favorite travel destination? Khajjiar sits at the foothills of the Dhauladhar mountain ranges in the Western Himalayas. From a distant, the majestic peaks form a great view. The hill post among an exclusive list of locations identified to mimic Switzerland’s topography. Other places of interest are the Khajjinag temple, built by the 12TH Century King of Chamba, large beautiful expanses that make it an ideal trekking destination and finally the lake.
4. Kasol
Kasol is a village located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh state. Located in the Parvati Valley, Kasol is a popular tourist destination that offers visitors a myriad of sights, sounds, and experiences worth a lifetime. A scenic view of the majestic Himalayas and an accompanying expanse of lush, dense, green forests provides for an unparalleled eco-tourism experience. The village also hosts rafting events that attract tourists in the dozens. Kasol’s strategic location along transit points means that visitors can get around easily by foot, bicycle or motorbike. The village sits at about 1580 meters above sea level.
5. Bir
Bir is a small village located within the Joginder Nagar valley in Himachal Pradesh state. Bir is considered the Indian paragliding capital thank its strategic location with a view of the Himalayas. The village is host to some important tourist attractions such as Baijnath Shiv Temple, the Palpung Sherabling Monastery and several other mention-worthy cultural and religious installations. The community also plays a humanitarian role as it is home to a sizeable Tibetan refugee settlement. The village’s popularity received its peak around the months of October and September. Ecotourism and Spiritual studies are yet another feather in the Bir’s cap.
6. Shimla
Shimla is the administrative capital of the Northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Sitting on the foothills of the towering majestic Himalayas ranges, Shimla has serves a historical significance as being a one-time summer capital of British rule in India. The city is the commercial educational and cultural center of the Himachal state. The dense forests provide a scenic view and had been a host to numerous top-level delegations. Important attractions include the Kalka-Shimla railway and the Rashtrapati Niwas; a jewel of grand British design and architecture. An added advantage to touring individuals is the fact that the city is rated among India’s least populous cities.
7. Dalhousie
Another hill station, Dalhousie is located on five hills at an altitude of about 1970 meters above sea level. Dalhousie is found in Himachal Pradesh state. It has a rich history and is home to the finest Victorian and Scottish architecture. The station was built as a summer retreat for the troops by the British empire. Dalhousie is considered an important repository of a cache of ancient Hindu art and culture. From as early as the 1800’s Dalhousie has housed a list of famous names and figures. Traditional attractions include scenic views, the Tibetan market, and the Salooni.
8. Dharamshala
Surrounded by dense, lush cedar forests, this city located in Himachal Pradesh is home to the Dalai Lama and by extension the exiled Tibetan government. Famous tourist sites include the Chintpurni, a sacred pilgrimage site, and Hindu temple, Kareri lake, a well-loved backpacking site and Namgyal Monastery; a revered Hindu monastery with a majestic view of the Himalayas. Located at the very edge of the Himalayas, Dharamshala is home to some of India’s most epic scenery. The city is also home to the Thekchen Choling Temple, a significant spiritual center for Tibetan Buddhism. A large portion of precious Tibetan manuscripts is housed at the Library of Tibetan Works.
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