Himachal Pradesh "Snow-laden Mountain Province"[9]) is a state in the northern part of India. Situated in the Western Himalayas, it is one of the thirteen mountain states and is characterized by an extreme landscape featuring several peaks and extensive river systems. Himachal Pradesh is the northernmost state of India and shares borders with the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh to the north, and the states of Punjab to the west, Haryana to the southwest, Uttarakhand to the southeast and a very narrow border with Uttar Pradesh to the south. The state also shares an international border to the east with the Tibet Autonomous Region in China. Himachal Pradesh is also known as Dev Bhoomi, meaning 'Land of Gods'[10] and Veer Bhoomi which means 'Land of the Brave'.[11]
The predominantly mountainous region comprising the present-day Himachal Pradesh has been inhabited since pre-historic times, having witnessed multiple waves of human migrations from other areas.[12] Through its history, the region was mostly ruled by local kingdoms, some of which accepted the suzerainty of larger empires. Prior to India's independence from the British, Himachal comprised the hilly regions of the Punjab Province of British India. After independence, many of the hilly territories were organized as the Chief Commissioner's province of Himachal Pradesh, which later became a union territory. In 1966, hilly areas of the neighboring Punjab state were merged into Himachal and it was ultimately granted full statehood in 1971
History
Tribes such as the Koli, Hali, Dagi, Dhaugri, Dasa, Khasa, Kanaura, and Kirata inhabited the region from the prehistoric era.[16] The foothills of the modern state of Himachal Pradesh were inhabited by people from the Indus valley civilisation, which flourished between 2250 and 1750 BCE.[17] The Kols and Mundas are believed to be the original inhabitants to the hills of present-day Himachal Pradesh, followed by the Bhotas and Kiratas.[17]
During the Vedic period, several small republics known as Janapada existed which were later conquered by the Gupta Empire. After a brief period of supremacy by King Harshavardhana, the region was divided into several local powers headed by chieftains, including some Rajputs principalities. These kingdoms enjoyed a large degree of independence and were invaded by Delhi Sultanate several times.[17]Mahmud Ghaznavi conquered Kangra at the beginning of the 11th century. Timur and Sikander Lodi also marched through the lower hills of the state, captured several forts, and fought many battles.[17] Several hill states acknowledged Mughalsuzerainty and paid regular tribute to the Mughals.[18
5 Best Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh
If you are someone who loves cold climate, tranquillity, a little adventure and a whole lot of fun, then a visit to the hill stations in North India is a must. Make a list of places to visit in Himachal Pradesh where overwhelming landscapes and peaceful views greet you. This place is surely a nature lover’s delight! There is no better way to explore the majestic mountains, evergreen forests, remote villages and mesmerising lakes at its best than taking a trip to “The Land of Snow” which is what Himachal means.
List of Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh
Places to Visit in Himachal Pradesh
Distance from Delhi
Manali
559 km
Khajjiar
575 km
Shimla
346 km
Dalhousie
562 km
Parwanoo
Best Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh
1. Manali
Located in Kullu district, at an altitude of 2,050 meters, Manali captivates you with its snow-capped mountains and impressive views. Manali is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Himachal. Bring out your adventurous side by indulging in the sports activities as you give yourselves a visual treat. The visually pleasant atmosphere makes it one of the top tourist places in Himachal Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Distance from Delhi : 559 km
2. Khajjiar
Khajjiar is a hill station located in the northern state of Himachal Pradesh. At an altitude of 2,000 meters, Khajjiar is situated in the Chamba District. With lakes, pastures, forests and an opportunity for camping in the wild, you will never get bored if your Himachal tour packages include a visit to this place. The adventure activities, mesmerizing nature, wildlife and culture makes Khajjiar a must visit place in Himachal.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Distance from Delhi : 575 km
3. Shimla – Best Places in Himachal
A popular hill station which usually tops the list of places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is at an elevation of 2,205 meters. Shimla is the capital and also the largest city of Himachal Pradesh. The lush green environs, scenic landscapes and the wonderful amalgamation of colonial heritage and nature make this place a real treat. The Viceregal Lodge, Christ Church, Shri Hanuman Jakhoo Temple, Ridge Road and Annadale are some of the popular attractions in Shimla making it one of the most recommended places to visit in Himachal Pradesh.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Distance from Delhi : 346 km
4. Dalhousie
True to its name, Dalhousie exudes a colonial feeling and is renowned for its heritage buildings that go way back to the early 19th century. The colonial feel is good for a walk down memory lane and hence is one of the best tourist places in Himachal Pradesh. This hill station is spread across five hills and is a sanctuary for wildlife lovers and landscape photographers as it holds some of the most intriguing flora and fauna.
Best Time to Visit: March to May
Distance from Delhi: 562 km
5. Parwanoo
Set against the backdrop of breathtaking hills, Parwanoo lies to the border of Haryana and is home to lush greenery. It is famous for its fruit orchards, timber trails, cable car rides and is also very close to Shimla & Kasauli. This makes it one of the places to visit in Himachal for trekkers.
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