| Himachal Pradesh General Information |
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Area
| : 55673 sq. km . | | Population | : 5.2 million . | | Literacy | : 64% Average . | | Rain Fall | : 1400 mm . |
Himachal Pradesh is totally a mountain state and a delight for the visitors, particularly during the summer season when people flock to this tiny hill station to escape the scorching heat of the plains. It came into being in its present form with the partition of the Punjab into Punjab and Haryana in 1966. High points of Himachal are as follows. The winding roads and high passes link its high mountains and valleys. While the picturesque valleys of Kullu and Kangra are a blend of colors. In marked contrast the stark and barren terrain of Lahaul and Spiti have a stunning lunar and scape like beauty.
The earliest known inhabitants of the region were tribals called Dasas. Later, Aryans came and they assimilated in the tribes. In the later centuries, the hill chieftains accepted suzerainty of the Mauryan empire, the Kaushans, the Guptas and Kanuaj rulers. During the Mughal period, the Rajas of the hill states made some mutually agreed arrangements which governed their relations. In the 19th century, Ranjit Singh annexed/subjugated many of the states. When the British came, they defeated Gorkhas and entered into treaties with some Rajas and annexed the kingdoms of others. The situation more or less remained unchanged till 1947. After Independence, 30 princely states of the area were united and Himachal Pradesh was formed on 15th April, 1948. With the recognition of Punjab on 1st November, 1966, certain areas belonging to it were also included in Himachal Pradesh. On 25th January, 1971, Himachal Pradesh was made a full-fledged State.
The State is bordered by Jammu & Kashmir on North, Punjab on West and South-West, Haryana on South, Uttar Pradesh on South-East and China on the East. |
| TRAVEL TIPS FOR HIMACHAL PRADESH |
Himachal Pradesh The Eco-friendly State, Breathtaking Scenery, Culture, History and Heritage, Celebrations, Fairs and Festivals, Wild life and Nature. Adventure and Sport. Comprehensive Facilities. And Always a Warm Welcome.
DO's - Foreigners who wish to overstay, should contact the nearest Foreigners' Regional Registration Office or the Sadar Police Station in the towns.
- Unleaded petrol is available at select stations only
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| If travelling in Kinnaur, Lahaul and Spiti |
- Petrol pumps on the route are at Shimla, Theog, Narkanda, Rampur, Powari, Recong Peo, Kaza, Keylong, Manali and Sarchu.
- If driving, essential spares and extra fuel are recommended. A sturdy vehicle (Jeep/Gypsy), is suggested.
- If crossing the high passes, good health is essential
- Government hospitals are at Keylong, Kaza and Recong Peo. Dispensaries are available elsewhere.
- Prescription medicines and sun-screen lotion should be carried along
- The best time to travel in these areas is between April and October. While planning your trip, it is suggested that you check on general road conditions and confirm if the high passes are open to traffic.
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| While trekking, picnicking or visiting wild life sanctuaries |
- Do not leave behind any non-bio-degradable litter like plastic bottles and cans
- Bury all bio-degradable litter.
- Use only dry fallen twigs for firewood.
- Avoid big bonfires
- Do not wash clothes or rinse soap in water holes. Animals use this water to drink.
- Avoid loud music and noise.
- Use vehicles to a minimum
- Do not damage or remove plants.
- Do not disturb animals
- Conserve nature today and it will protect our tomorrows.
DONT's - Don't leave non-biodegradable material behind.
- Don't encourage beggars.
- Don't be coerced into shopping by touts, guides, taxi drivers or strangers.
- Don't buy articles made from rare or endangered species or animals which are protected.
- Don't buy antiques to carry overseas. The export of all articles over a hundred years old is banned.
- Don't disfigure or scribble over rocks, trees, buildings etc.
- Don't get lured into sightseeing by touts.
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Himachal has an enormous range of weather conditions. Most areas of Bilaspur, Solan, Sirmour, Hamirpur, Kangra and Una, are largely warm to hot in summer, and mild to pleasant in winter. The districts of Chamba, Kinnaur, Kullu, Lahaul-Spiti and Shimla, are largely mild to pleasant in summer and cold in winter. Do check the type of clothing and other equipment you may require for the region you are visiting. |
Stay only in hotels/guest houses registered with the Department of Tourism. A certificate to this effect is prominently displayed by them. In the main tourist centers, the rates of porters are fixed. For hiring porters and pack animals - especially for treks - these are normally negotiated. |
- Shop at Government emporia. The prices are reasonable and the quality ensured - 'Himachal Emporium' outlets are located at Bilaspur, Chamba, Dharamsala, Kangra, Jwalamukhi, Palampur, Recong Peo, Bhabanagar, Mandi, Kullu, Manali, Keylong, Nahan, Solan, Arki, Shimla, New Delhi, Bombay, Bangalore and Chamdigarh. You can also buy directly from craftsmen located throughout Himachal.
- For electrical appliances, check voltage 220V, which is the standard in Himachal.
- Some monuments and buildings require permission for photography and filming. Contact the nearest Tourism Office or the concerned District Administration for guidance and assistance.
- Change money only at Authorised Foreign Exchange outlets/Banks/Hotels. Insist on receipt for money changed.
- Credit cards are accepted at most shops, restaurants and hotels in the main towns. Their use is minimal outside them and all payments are in cash.
- If any document is lost, immediately contact the nearest Police Station or Himachal Tourism Office.
- Dispose all litter carefully. The use of plastic bags is banned in Himachal.
- Keep your valuables in hotel lockers/safe deposit vaults. STD/ISD/FAX facilities are available.
- For medical assistance contact Government hospitals and dispensaries, your hotel or accredited nursing home/clinics/hospitals.
- Observe local traditions and customs - especially while visiting religious places. Contact your nearest Tourist Office/hotel for guidance.
- For guide maps and information, contact Himachal Tourism Offices.
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