NEWS

April 15 is observed as Himachal Day

DETAILS

HIMACHAL PRADESH

• Formed as a Union Territory in 1948
• In 1971, became the 18th state in India with Shimla as its capital

OTHER DETAILS

• The word ”Himachal” is derived from two Sanskrit words, “Hima” (snow) and “Anchal” (lap). The state, situated amid valleys and hills, virtually sits in the lap of the Himalayas.
• Main language spoken in the state is Hindi but there are several local dialects like Mahasu, Pahari, Mandeali, Kangri, Kullu, Bilaspuri and Kinnauri.
• The recorded history of Himachal Pradesh goes back to the Maurya period, that is, 4th Century B.C.
• A large part of Himachal Pradesh is in the Alpine zone with an average altitude of 4,500 metre.
• Himachal Pradesh boasts of spectacular snow-capped ranges like the Dhauladhar, Pir Panjal and the Zaskar.
• Tourism and agriculture are the backbone of the economy of Himachal Pradesh.
• The state has beautiful tourist destinations like Shimla – the queen of hill stations, Bilaspur, Mandi, Chamba, Kullu, Dalhousie, Kasauli, Kangra, Palampur, Solan, Manali and Dharmshala.
• The Kalka-Shimla Railway, often called the ”toy train”, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• The Kalka-Shimla Railway traverses the steepest slope (over 5800 ft) in roughly 95 km. The train crosses several bridges and tunnels.
• Himachal Pradesh has 33 Wildlife Sanctuaries and two National Parks