Himachal Pradesh
Introduction
Popularly known as the Devbhumi - "Land of the Gods", Himachal Pradesh is a beautiful hill state in northern India nestled in western Himalayas. The state is landlocked with the Tibetan plateau to the east, Jammu and Kashmir to the north, and the Punjab to the west. However the state stands apart from its neighbours in terms of its sheer topographic diversity and breathtaking pristine natural beauty. From vast tracts of high-altitude Trans-Himalayan desert to dense green deodar forests, from apple orchards to cultivated terraces, from snow capped high Himalayan mountain ranges to snow fed lakes and gushing rivers.
The State has a rich treasure of places of pilgrimage and anthropological value. The State has also the pride of being the home to Rishies like Vyas, Prashar, Vashist, Markandey and Lamas, etc. Hot water springs, historic forts, natural and man-made lakes, shepherds grazing their flock are sources of immense pleasure and joy to the tourist.
Tourist Attraction
Hill Stations
Chamba Valley
Chamba town (915m) stands on the right bank of the river Ravi. As a former princely State, it is one of the oldest in the century and dates back to the sixth century. It is well known for its splendid architecture and a base for numerous excursions. It is also the district headquarters. In winter, the temperature gets very low because of cold winds, thus heavy woolens are required. It is pleasant in summer.
More on Chamba Valley (External website that opens in a new window)
Dalhousie
In western Himachal Pradesh, the hill station of Dalhousie is full of old world charm and holds lingering echoes of the Raj era. It covers an area of 14 sq. km. and is built on five hills - Kathlog, Patreyn, Tehra, Bakrota, and Balun. It is named after the British governor General of the 19th century, Lord Dalhousie. The town's height varies between 525 m and 2,378 m, and is surrounded by varied vegetation - pines, deodars, oaks and flowering rhododendron. Dalhousie has charming colonial architecture, including some beautiful churches. Its location presents panoramic views of the plains and like a long silver line, the river Ravi twists and turns below Dalhousie. The spectacular snow-covered Dhauladhar mountains are also visible form this enchanting town.
More on Dalhousie (External website that opens in a new window)
Dharamsala
Dharamshala's altitude varies between 1,250 metres (4,400 ft) and 2,000 metres (6,460 ft). The snow line here is easily accessible. The glittering rays of the sun fall upon the glossy snow and cast their reflections back in the valley in all the seven colours of the rainbow, beckoning people on. The mountains enfold the three sides of the town and the valley stretches beyond to the south. It is known for its scenic-beauty amidst high pine trees, tea gardens and other timber-yielding trees vying with one another for height, calmness and serenity. Since 1960, when it became temporary headquarters of the Dalai Lama, Dharamshala has risen into international repute as "The Little Lhasa in India".
Kangra
Lying 526-kms north-west of New Delhi, Dharamshala is the headquarters of the Kangra District in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Kangra valley is one of the most pleasant, relaxing and spiritual places in the Himalayas. Marvellously scenic, especially upper Dharamshala is well wooded with oak, cedar, pine and other timber yielding trees and offers some lovely walks and finer views. Lord Elgin, the British Viceroy of India (1862-63) fell in love with the natural beauty of Dharamshala because of its likeness with Scotland, his home in England.
More on Kangra (External website that opens in a new window)
Kufri
Endless skyline, snow capped peaks, verdant valleys and fresh water springs, Kufri has it all, and more. This hill station is located in the southern Himachal Pradesh, near Shimla, at an altitude of 2,510 m above sea level transforms you into a magical world of fun filled adventure. Kufri plays host to a number of winter sports like skiing and tobogganing along the slopes. The winter sports carnival held annually, is a major attraction for visitors who throng this place just to witness it. It is also well known for its trekking and hiking trails - an ideal spot, for adventure lovers.
More on Kufri (External website that opens in a new window)
Manali
Just 40 kms away from Kullu to the north, Manali is situated near the end of the valley on the National Highway leading to Leh. The landscape here is breath taking. One sees well-defined snow capped peaks, the Beas River with its clear water meanders through the town. On the other side are deodar and pine trees, tiny fields and fruit orchards. It is an excellent place for a holiday, a favourite resort for trekkers to Lahaul, Spiti, Bara Bhangal (Kangra), and Zanskar ranges. From temples to antiquity, to picturesque sight-seeing spots and adventure activities, Manali is a popular resort for all seasons and for all travellers.
More on Manali (External website that opens in a new window)
Kullu
Kullu valley was earlier referred to as Kulanthapitha. Kulanthapitha literally meant the "end of the habitable world". Kullu valley has also been the valley of Gods in India. Kullu, the town is one of the most preferred summer destinations. The sun-scorched souls of the plains take refuge in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh. The temples, apple orchards and the Dussehra festivals are what have attracted thousands of tourists time and again to Kullu. The local handicrafts top the list of must buys from Kullu. Check out the hill resort of Kullu with the majestic mountains and the beautiful Beas River.
Chail
One of the smallest hill stations in the Himalayan foothills, Chail is an idyllic destination for nature lovers and is popular with birdwatchers. Lying at a height of 2,250 metres above sea level, this picturesque lush green hill station is located 43 km South East of Shimla, the capital of the state of Himachal Pradesh. Chail is set amidst thickly wooded pine and deodar forests with snow-capped Shivalik ranges in the background. It is built on three hills - 'Rajgarh Hill' topped by the Chail Palace, 'Sadh Tiba hill' by the village itself, and 'Pandhewa Hill' by the Snow View Mansion. Shimla and Kasauli, the two other major hill stations in Himachal Pradesh, are visible from here.
Kasauli
Perched at a height of 1795 meters above sea level, Kasauli is a small hill station in Himachal Pradesh. Located 77 kms from south of Shimla, one can see Kasauli when approach the Shimla hills on the toy train. Known for its hygiene and beauty, Kasuali attracts a large number of tourists, especially on the weekends. Often called lesser Shimla, Kasauli is a quite hill station famous for firs, rhododendrons, chestnuts, oaks and willows. Kasuali also has a Pasteur Institute founded in 1900 to produce anti-rabies vaccine against mad dog-bites, and at the same time it also treats Hydrophobia disease. Kasauli is also the birthplace of the famous writer, Ruskin Bond.
Shimla
Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh and former summer capital of British India, is the state's most important centre. It is named after its patron goddess, Shamla Devi, a manifestation of Kali. Shimla located at an altitude of 7,267 feet, is inhabited around a crescent - shaped ridge, which is blessed with perennially cool air. It provides superb panoramic sights of the valleys, and the lofty peaks of the great Himalayan range, on both sides. To the north, the awesome snow ranges race across the horizon. The cool breeze wafts across the country side, flows through the oak and rhododendron forests. Shimla's salubrious climate, easy accessibility and numerous attractions have made it one of the most popular hill stations in northern India.
Palampur
Palampur, a beautiful hill station of Himachal Pradesh is renowned as Tea capital of North India. Its refreshing tea leaves are world famous. The scenic natural beauty, perfumed air and emerald forest make it an ideal tourists spot. Its captivating natural beauty attract tourist from every nook and corner of the world. Tourists come in this beautiful landscape and spent time in grandeur. It's a lovely place for nature lovers, holiday makers and paradise for Honeymoon couples. Spending time in the beautiful landscape adds memorable memories in your life. Palampur weather is always at its best and makes tourists enjoy each and every moment in pleasure.
Wildlife Sanctuaries
Great Himalayan National Park
The National Park with an area of Himalayan Brown Beer 620 sq. km. is located in Kullu District and has the representative area of temperate and alpine forests of Himachal. It has some the virgin coniferous forests of the State. Vast areas of alpine pastures and glaciers cap this park. This area has many important wildlife species of Western Himalayas, like Musk deer, Brown bear, Goral, Thar, Leopard, Snow leopard, Bharal, Serow, Monal, Kalij, Koklas, Cheer, Tragopan, Snow cock etc. Trekking of Rakti-Sar, origin of Sainj River and camping in alpine pastures is unforgettable. Similar is the trekking route to Tirath the origin of Tirthan River. Visitors can contact Director, National Park at Shamshi or Range Officer wildlife at Sainj or Range Officer Wild Life at Sai Ropa (Banjar) for assistance and guidance. Camping equipment and guides are provided by the Forests Department.
More on Great Himalayan National Park (External website that opens in a new window)
Source: National Portal Content Management Team, Reviewed on: 20-02-2010 
