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Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh is a northern Indian state known for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich culture, and serene environment. Here's an overview:

Geography

Location: Situated in the western Himalayas, it shares borders with Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir, and an international border with Tibet (China).
Topography: Characterized by lush valleys, towering mountains, dense forests, and rivers like the Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, and Chenab.
Climate: Ranges from tropical in low hills to alpine in the higher altitudes, with snowy winters in many regions.

Key Facts

Capital:
- Summer: Shimla
- Winter: Dharamshala
Largest City: Shimla
Official Language: Hindi
Spoken Languages: Pahari, Punjabi, Kangri, and others.
Population (2021 est.): ~7.5 million
Area: 55,673 square kilometers.

Tourism

Himachal Pradesh is a popular destination for nature lovers, trekkers, and adventure enthusiasts. Key attractions include:

Hill Stations

Shimla: Colonial architecture and vibrant bazaars.
Manali: Known for its snow-capped mountains and adventure sports.
Dalhousie: Scenic charm with Victorian-era buildings.
Dharamshala & McLeodganj: Spiritual hub and home to the Dalai Lama.

Religious Sites

Temples: Jwalamukhi Temple, Chintpurni, Bhimakali Temple.
Monasteries: Key Monastery in Spiti, Tabo Monastery.

Adventure Activities

Trekking: Triund, Hampta Pass, Pin Parvati.
Paragliding: Bir-Billing (world-famous paragliding site).
Skiing: Solang Valley, Kufri.
River Rafting: Beas and Sutlej rivers.

Natural Wonders

Great Himalayan National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
Spiti Valley: Remote, high-altitude desert.
Kinnaur and Chamba: Known for apple orchards and scenic beauty.

Culture

Dance: Nati (a traditional folk dance).
Festivals: Kullu Dussehra, Losar Festival, and Summer Festival in Shimla.
Handicrafts: Woolen shawls, Himachali caps, wood carvings, and Kangra paintings.
Cuisine: Includes dishes like Dham, Siddu, Chana Madra, and Patande.

Economy

Agriculture: Apples, plums, peaches, and apricots are significant produce.
Tourism: A major contributor to the economy.
Hydropower: A major source of energy and revenue.