Why Himachal Pradesh known as "The land of Rishis"?

Himachal Pradesh Himachal Pradesh situated in the heart of the western Himalayas, known as "The land of Rishis" and is believed to...

Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh situated in the heart of the western Himalayas, known as "The land of Rishis" and is believed to be the habitat of Gods and Goddesses. The entire State is punctuated with stone as well as wood temples. Himachal Pradesh blessed with their unique tradition and culture. The shadowy valleys, rugged crags, glaciers and gigantic pines and roaring rivers and large variety of  flora and fauna compose the symphony that is for ever Himachal.

The state has a rich treasure of places of pilgrimage and ethnic values. Himachal Pradesh also hold the pride of being a home of rishis like Vyas, Parashar, Vashisht, Markandey, etc. Himachal Pradesh become the successful model for not only hill area development but also work for the development in education, health and social services. 

Agriculture

Agriculture being the main occupation of the people of Himachal Pradesh and also play the important role in the economy of the State. It provides direct employment to approx 70 percent of the working population of the state. Out of the total geographical area of 55.673 sq. km., area of about 9.79 lakh hectares owned by 9.14 lakh farmers. The marginal and small farmers hold 86.4 percent of the total land holdings. The cultivated area in the state is only 10.4 percent. 

Himachal Pradesh is known for its beauty and the culture. Here, we discuss about the vast culture, destinations, popular food and the festivals which shows the pride of the Himachal Pradesh. 

Tradition and Culture 

Himachal Pradesh is a multi-religion practising, multicultural and multilingual state like other Indian states. Some of the most commonly spoken languages are Hindi and the various Pahari languages. The Hindu communities living in Himachal Pradesh include the Brahmins, Rajputs, Kannets, Rathis and Kolis. 

The traditional dressing of the Brahmin males includes dhoti-kurta, coat, waistcoat, turban and a hand towel.

The Rajput male wear tight fitted churidar pyjamas, a long coat and a starched turban. With the changing time the dress up of the people has now become a mixed one. Though the above-mentioned style is now hardly followed, people have started wearing western style of clothes.

Popular Destinations

There are many popular destinations in Himachal Pradesh which shows the beauty of the state. Here, we discuss some of the popular destinations of Himachal Pradesh. 

1. Manali.

Manali is Located in the Kullu district, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Himachal at an altitude of 2,050 meters, Manali attracts you with its snow-capped mountains and impressive views. . Bring out your adventurous side by indulging in the sports activities as you give yourselves a visual treat. The visually pleasant atmosphere makes it one of  the top tourist places in Himachal Pradesh. The best time recorded to visit Manali in between October to February. 

2. Shimla.

A popular hill station which is usually top listed place to visit in Himachal Pradesh. Shimla is the capital and also the largest city of Himachal Pradesh. The lush green environment, scenic landscapes and the wonderful hub of colonial heritage and nature make this place more beautiful.  The Viceregal Lodge, Christ Church, Shri Hanuman Jakhoo Temple, Ridge Road and Annadale are some of the popular attractions in Shimla making it one of the most recommended places to visit in Himachal Pradesh. The best time recorded to visit Shimla in between March to June. 

3. Kasauli. 

Kasauli is also one the most visited destination by tourists in Himachal Pradesh. At at an altitude of 1,927 meters, Kasauli too reeks of a typical Himachal Pradesh. It is popular for its Central Research Institute, Baptist Church, Kasauli Brewery, Monkey Point and Kasauli Club. This small town in the southwestern part of the state is settled among delightful pine woods and cedar trees. This tourist place in Himachal Pradesh is known for its mystical and serene ambience.The best time recorded to visit Kasauli in between April to June and September to November. 

4. Dharamshala.

Himachal Pradesh Tourism always stresses on visiting Dharamsala as it is here that you get to witness an amazing climate where multicultural Indian communities peacefully live together with the Indo Tibetan community. Dharamshala is also home to the Dalai Lama. It is one of the most frequented tourist places to visit in Himachal and known for its particular mix of the Kangra and Tibetan culture. The best time recorded to visit Dharamshala in between March to June and September to February. 

5. Khajjiar.

Khajjiar is a hill station located in the northern state of Himachal Pradesh. At an altitude of 2,000 meters, Khajjiar is situated in the Chamba District. With lakes, pastures, forests and an opportunity for camping in the wild, you will never get bored if your Himachal tour packages include a visit to this place. The adventure activities, mesmerizing nature, wildlife and culture makes Khajjiar a must visit place in Himachal. The best time recorded to visit Khajjiar in between October to March. 

These are the popular Destinations of Himachal Pradesh. There are so many beautiful destinations more. So when you plan to visit Himachal Pradesh, you find the beauty of the nature and know why Himachal is called the land of gods. 

Popular Food

1. Madra.

Madra is one of the popular dish that represent the food culture of Himachal Pradesh.it is belongs to the Chamba and Kangra district. This dish consist of the soaked chickpeas (chana) and vegetables. Cooked in oil and various spices such as cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, cumin, coriander powder and turmeric powder which enhance the taste of this dish. Every restaurant, every occasion, and the festival will have Madra offered to you with utmost love.

2. Tudkiya Bhath.

Tudkiya Bhath is the authentic pulao found in the Chamba district of Himachal pradesh. Pahadi people cook Tudkiya Bhath in their own very style.The dish is not only cooked with Indian spices but an extra add up to the lentils, potatoes and yoghurt along with onion, tomatoes, garlic, cinnamon, cardamom provides this dish such a great taste and make this dish a unique choice that will make you want it again and again. For the best taste, Tudkiya Bath is complemented with mash dal and few drops of lime juice.

3. Babru.

Babru is the popular dish found in the Shimla  region. Himachal have added a unique twist to popular Kachoris of North India. Babru is a flat bread which is prepared with the stuffing of black gram paste which is added to the kneaded dough. The crisp and the pleasant taste of this dish has to offer will make you forget the conventional Kachoris of North India. Babru is best enjoyed with Tamarind chutney and it also complements the famous Chana Madra of Himachal cuisine.

4. Kullu Trout Fish.

Himachal Pradesh have a great number of non-vegetarian delicious dishes. Kullu trout fish is a famous dish of Kullu region which is prepared with trout fish. The marinated fish is cooked in the minimum spices to keep the nutrients and the original taste of Trout intact. The dish is best coupled with the number of boiled vegetables, and hence it remains one of the healthiest delicacies of Himachal Pradesh.

 

Many dishes like Aktori, siddu, Chha Gosht, Mittha are the popular dishes of Himachal Pradesh which gives you a unforgettable taste and reminds you the vast varieties of  traditional food found in Himachal Pradesh. 

Festivals

1. Sazo Festival.

Sazo is the ancient festival celebrated in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. Being one of the beautiful festivals of Himachal Pradesh, Sazo rooted in the strong belief that during this time, the deities ascend back to heaven for some time. Their departure is considered a huge event. The locals in the valley follow strict rituals regarding the celebration. They take baths in the hot springs or in the Satluj river, aiming at cleansing their souls and bodies of every sin. Contrary to rituals in other regions of the country, people of Kinnaur valley worship their Gods and Goddesses thrice that day. According to the belief, the deities depart towards heaven. The celebration ends with traditional music and dance performances.

2. Doongri Fair.

Doogri festival is celebrate in the kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. It has its root in the epic of Mahabharata. The day is marked as the birthday of Hadimba, Bheem’s wife thus is also known as Hadimba Devi’s fair. 

The locals gather at a spot and pay tribute to Hadimba who is so the local deity. A vast fair is organised every year in respect of Hidimba Devi. This big fair is organised on Basant Panchami, the day that marks the arrival of the spring season. The spirit of festivity is heightened with traditional dance performances on cultural folk music by the people dressed in colourful traditional costumes. The main attraction of this fair is the numbers of inspiring parades and processions locals of different nearby villages carry out as they roll the chariot of their Devi forward. All these chariots and processions gather at Hadimba Temple situated in the sacred forests of Dhungri in Kullu. Some rituals are performed at the temple by the priest and hundreds of devotees bow down to their Devi asking her to bless them. Doongri festival is a splendid opportunity to experience the rich culture and traditions of the valley.

3. Halda.

Halda is one of the beautiful festivals in Himachal Pradesh closely resembles Diwali, the festival of lights. Celebrated on the occasion of Magha Purnima. It is a 2-day grand carnival celebrated in the secluded region of Lahaul valley. It is dedicated to Shiskar Apa, the Goddess of wealth. A massive bonfire symbolizes the solidarity of the group, adding visual charm to the festivity. This most-awaited festival of Himachal Pradesh is all about family and community gatherings, exotic traditional beverages and regional delicacies. The valleys of Lahaul and Keyong rejoice in exuberance with the two perennial rivers nourishing life in them. Halda is a celebration this life. Special offerings are made to the local deities and several rituals are practiced in their reverence.

There are so many festivals such as Losar, kullu Dussehra, Phulaich festival and many more. 

Himachal Pradesh is carefully preserved its multicultural heritage and the beauty of the state. It is the symbol of purity and blessed with nature. This makes the Himachal Pradesh a land of gods and clearly define the greatness of India.