If you have a vacation planned in Himachal Pradesh anytime soon, there are some things you should know about the state before your visit. And no, we are not talking about the places you should visit or the kinds of activities you can perform. We are talking about some of the most interesting facts about this north-Indian state.
Do you know what Himachal means? Or are you aware of the fact why it is called “Dev Bhoomi”? If not, then this article is just for you. We are going to share 12 incredible facts that will leave you stunned. In our opinion, it’s best you know the most important things about a state before visiting one. So let’s get you to know Himachal Pradesh.
1. Himachal Pradesh is called “Dev Bhoomi”
Translating to the Land of the Gods, Himachal Pradesh is called “Dev Bhoomi” because a number of ancient sacred books refer to the state. Besides, it is also home to several esteemed temples and important pilgrimage sites. Almost every hamlet or area has its own Goddesses or Gods that the locals worship.
2. Lord Shiva’s Abode
Chamba Kailash, commonly known as the Manimahesh Kailash summit, is considered to be the abode of Lord Shiva. The summit soars high over Manimahesh Lake and is even a renowned pilgrimage site for Hindus. Also, the local Gaddi tribe of this place believes that it is a lucky location.
3. Kullu Dussehra Festival
Among the most popular Hindu festivals in India is Dussehra, which marks the victory of good over evil. And Himachal Pradesh does not fall behind when it comes to the ceremonies of this festival. Rather, it is popular for the Kullu Dussehra festival, which begins right when Dussehra ends everywhere in the country, that is, on the tenth day. And beginning from the day of Dussehra, this festival goes on for seven days and includes dance and music performances by locals.
The festival goes back to the 17th century when Jagat Singh founded it. Today, the lovely traditions and joyous celebrations attract tourists from across the globe.
4. Mini-Switzerland
If you are not already aware of it, Khajjiar is a small hill town in Himachal Pradesh, which is called “Mini-Switzerland of India”. This name clearly explains what it comprises - astonishing natural scenery along with a glistening lake. There is a small floating island right in the center of the lake, which makes the place even more picturesque.
5. World’s Highest Cricket Ground
Himachal boasts the world’s highest cricket ground, The Chail Cricket Ground. Located in the Chail district, it is on an elevation of 8,018 feet above sea level. Constructed in 1891, the ground is surrounded by lush green deodar forest and snow-laden mountains.
6. Treasuring Wildlife
Himachal Pradesh not only boasts rich flaura and fauna but also loves treasuring wildlife. The state is home to two national parks and 33 wildlife sanctuaries. In fact, The Great Himalayan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It consists of 180 birds, over 30 mammals, and 370 species of animals out of which 9 are amphibians.
7. India’s Second-Largest Apple Producer
After Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh produces most apples in India. The cultivation of this fruit was started in the Kotgarh area by an American missionary named Satyanand Stokes. Since then, production has multiplied to a great extent. Furthermore, the state is also known for the production of other fruits in large quantities, which include plums, kiwis, cherries, and peaches. Even dry fruits are grown in Himachal, such as hazelnuts, chilgoza, and pine nuts.
8. The Well-Renowned Toy Train
Passing through 102 tunnels and traveling a distance of 96.6 kilometers, the Kalka Shimla Railway is single-track and was built in the mid-19th century. It consists of the world’s longest tunnel and the tallest multi-arc gallery bridge, which makes it even more fascinating. So if you have plans of visiting Shimla during your vacation in Himachal, we recommend you take this toy train from Kalka to reach there. The scenic views on your journey will make it an unforgettable experience.
9. Himachal Pradesh - The Meaning of its Name
A famous Sanskrit scholar named Acharya Diwakar Datt named the state. The word Himachal is derived from the terms “Him” and “Anchal”. Literally, Himachal means “In the lap of the Himalayas”. Nonetheless, the term “Him” translates to snow. So it can be also understood as the land of snow, which it is.
10. The Settlement of Taboos
The Taboos Village or The Settlement of Tabbos is a tiny, hidden village in Himachal where all outsiders are prohibited from touching the walls of the village as well as the possessions of residents. This harsh and strange rule is what gives the village its name. Yet, tourists are attracted to this place, mainly due to the weed that grows here. In fact, the village was awarded the “Best Hashish” award at the High Times Magazine Cannabis Cup twice, in 1994 and in 1996.
11. Mini Israel
Another small hamlet in Himachal Pradesh, Kasol is located in the Kullu district and is commonly known as “Mini Israel”. This is because a majority of tourists here come from Israel. As a matter of fact, almost all the inns and shops have hoardings in Hebrew, the language of Israelians. Not just this, but also the goods, food, and clothes offer an Israeli feel.
12. Most Dangerous Roads
The roads in Himachal Pradesh are considered to be some of the most dangerous ones in the entire country. Most of them are marked orange and red, which implies danger. Out of these, Kinnaur Roads and Manali-Leh Road are the unsafest of all.
Final Word
Himachal Pradesh is full of excitement, exhilaration, and beauty - even the facts indicate the same. From the Toy Train ride to traveling on dangerous roads, the state offers a variety of experiences to travelers - some better than others. Nonetheless, the gorgeous views and immaculate beauty of nature are worth the thrill.
