Nestled between the towering Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh is a land of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and serenity. Ranging from snow-laden mountainss down to lush green valleys sprinkled with apple orchards, this northern Indian state has its way of charming travellers. This state covers a total area of 55,673 square kilometers. Let’s unravel some of those lesser-known facts about the place which make it a ‘Jewel in the Himalayas’.
1. Fruit Bowl of India
The State of Himachal Pradesh is called the “Fruit Bowl of India” for its spectacular production of apples. It is the second most extensive apple grower in India and produces over 450 varieties of apples on a yearly basis.
2. Kullu Dussehra Festival
One of the longest and most famous Dusshera festivals in India, the Kullu Dussehra festival is a seven-day-long affair. Started by King Jagat Sing in the 17th century, this festival attracts thousands of devotees and visitors to the beautiful Kullu Valley.
3. Kasol – Mini Israel and Khajjar- Miniature Switzerland
Kasol, a small town in Himachal Pradesh, is famously known as “Mini Israel” due to its popularity among Israeli tourists and its establishments with Hebrew signs. Khajjiar, a hill town in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, is referred to as “Mini Switzerland.” It features a lake with a floating island in the centre, as well as breathtaking scenery.
4. Highest Cricket Ground in the World
With an elevation of 8,018 feet above sea level, the Chail Cricket Ground in Himachal Pradesh is considered to be the highest cricket ground in the world. It was built in 1891, and the surrounding deodar woodlands provide a breathtaking backdrop for sporting events and tourists.
5. Ice Skating in Shimla
Shimla has the biggest ice skating rink in India. It is also the only natural ice-skating rink in India. The rink is located at a height of approximately 2,200 meters (7,218 feet). This open-air rink attracts numerous tourists and locals who enjoy ice skating.
6. Highest Post Office
Situated in the scenic Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Hikkim is home to the world’s highest post office. Perched at an astounding 4,400 meters (14567ft) above sea level, the tiny post office is both a tourist attraction and a lifeline for the local community
7. Malana: The Ancient Village of Taboos
The village of Malana, also known as the village of Taboos, lies at an altitude of 9,938 ft above sea level. It has the oldest democracy in the world. The people of Malana have strict rules about not touching or coming in contact with any outsiders, and by mistake they get touched they either run for a bath or charge you a fine! Not only the inhabitants but also their possessions and the walls they live in are off-limits to outsiders!
8. No Smoking Policy
Dеclarеd on July 2, 2013, Himachal Pradеsh is the first smoke-free state in India. Smoking is strictly banned at any public placе across thе statе, thus ensuring that rеsidеnts and visitors have a clеan and smoke-frее еnvironmеnt.
9. Thе Iconic Toy Train Journеy
The most famous and popular route to Shimla is the Kalka-Shimla Railway, also known as the Toy Train. Along with the distinction of being declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this railroad has also created the world record in railway engineering for traversing the steepest slope, 5816 feet, in just 96 km.
10. A Havеn of Honеsty and Bеauty
Himachal is one of the least corrupt states in India, second only to Kerala. Here, tourists get reasonable prices and excellent hospitality, making their holidays within the magnificent surroundings of the State even more enjoyable.
11. Impressive Acadеmic Landscapе
Himachal Pradеsh has a total of about 17000 educational institutions, among which the state has one engineering college, three universities, and two medical colleges. The state has one of the highest rates of literacy in the country and lays great emphasis on education as the base for its progress.
12. A Treasure Trove of Wildlife
Himachal Pradesh is home to 2 national parks and 33 wildlife sanctuaries. Out of the two, UNESCO has designated The Great Himalayan National Park as a World Heritage Site. There are 370 different species of animals in the National Park, including 180 birds, 30 mammals, and nine amphibians.
13. Land of Gods and Ancient Temples
Himachal Pradesh is often called the “Land of the Gods” or “Dev Bhoomi”. Himachal is home to numerous revered temples and significant pilgrimage sites. Nearly every hamlet or neighbourhood has its own Gods and Goddesses that the residents worship.
