Captivating Chronicles of Himachal Pradesh

Nestled in the majestic embrace of the Himalayas, the name "Himachal" is a poetic fusion of two Sanskrit words—Hima (snow) and Anchal (lap)—a fitting tribute to this snowy sanctuary.

The story of Himachal Pradesh began with the unification of four districts—Mandi, Chamba, Mahasu, and Sirmour—alongside 30 princely states. This collective entity evolved into a Union Territory in 1948, eventually ascending to full statehood in 1971 as the 18th state of the Indian Union.

Twin Capitals and Timeless Cities
Shimla, the capital, sprawls gracefully over seven hills and proudly wears the crown of the "Queen of Hills." During winters, the spiritual and serene town of Dharamshala dons the mantle of the state’s winter capital.

By the Numbers

• Area: 55,673 sq. km

• Population (2011): 68,56,509

• Assembly Constituencies: 68

• Lok Sabha Seats: 4

• Rajya Sabha Seats: 3

Natural Symbols of Pride

• State Animal: Snow Leopard

• State Bird: Western Tragopan

• State Flower: Pink Rhododendron

• State Tree: Himalayan Cedar (Deodar)

• Official Languages: Hindi and Pahari

Nature, Agriculture & Sustainability
A verdant expanse, nearly two-thirds of the state is cloaked in lush forest (66.52%). Agriculture remains the lifeline of the region, employing over 65% of its population and contributing around 22% to its domestic product.

Engineering Marvels & Heritage Treasures
The Kalka–Shimla Railway, lovingly dubbed the "Toy Train," is a UNESCO World Heritage marvel, winding through 102 tunnels and crossing 800+ bridges. It masterfully conquers over 5,800 feet in altitude across just 95 km.

Development with Integrity
With its exemplary governance, Himachal is ranked the second least corrupt state in India, offering tourists both beauty and peace of mind. By 2013, it was declared India’s first smoke-free state and also banned polythene bags statewide in 2009.

Educational Eminence
Himachal is home to nearly 17,000 educational institutions, including renowned universities, medical and engineering colleges. Its literacy rate stands tall at 83.78%, securing 11th rank nationally.

Ecological Wonders

• National Parks: 5

• Wildlife Sanctuaries: 33

• Notable: Shigri Glacier, Asia’s largest; Great Himalayan National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Reo Purgyil, at 22,360 ft, is the state’s tallest peak.

• Chail houses the world’s highest cricket ground (8,018 ft above sea level).

Culture, Festivals & Folklore
Malana, one of the world’s oldest known democracies, boasts customs that trace lineage to Alexander the Great. Kullu’s Dussehra festival and Kasol’s nickname “Mini Israel” reflect Himachal’s cultural vibrancy and global appeal.

Spiritual Heartland
Dubbed the Dev Bhoomi (Land of Gods), Himachal is steeped in spiritual heritage. Temples like Naina Devi, Chamunda Devi, and Jwala Ji coexist with ancient monasteries like Tabo and Dhankar.

Fruitful Landscapes
Known as the "Fruit Bowl of India," Himachal produces an array of fruits—especially apples, of which it is the second-largest producer in India with over 450 varieties and 4 lakh tons annually.

Transport & Connectivity

• National Highways: 9 (1,208 km)

• State Highways: 19 (1,625 km)

• Airports: 3 (Shimla, Kullu, Kangra)

Celebrities & Achievers
The state has birthed icons like Preity Zinta, Anupam Kher, and Kangna Ranaut, and sports legends like Vijay Kumar (shooting) and Ajay Thakur (kabaddi).

Incredible Firsts & Records

• Asia’s only natural ice-skating rink is in Shimla.

• Hosted the first Paragliding World Cup in 2015.

• The polling booth at Tashigang is the highest in the world at 15,256 ft.

• Kalpa’s Shyam Saran Negi, India’s oldest voter, cast the first vote in 1951.

Unique Heritage & Communities
The Himachali cap (Thepang) symbolizes pride and tradition. Malana village is famed for its sacred taboos and world-renowned hashish. Solan is celebrated as India’s ‘Mushroom City’.

Religious Mosaic
The state’s spiritual fabric includes revered gurudwaras like Paonta Sahib and majestic churches such as Christ Church in Shimla. Its ancient temples and monasteries draw pilgrims and peace-seekers alike.

Prehistoric Legacy
Fossils dating back 85 million years were unearthed at the Shivalik Fossil Park, adding another fascinating chapter to Himachal’s geological narrative.

Mineral Wealth & Governance
Himachal harbors minerals like gypsum, limestone, and iron. With 20690 villages, 3226 gram panchayats, and 169 tehsils, the state showcases grassroots governance at its finest.