Interesting Facts about Himachal Pradesh

Winter has arrived and we could hear a lot of news about the fresh snowfall, the northern states have started to receive. The people who are fascinated by snow have started to book their tickets to the snowfall destinations. Among these comes the beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh which is nestled between the snow-capped Himalayan ranges in North India. The spectacular and panoramic landscapes of the state make it every traveller’s paradise. Himachal Pradesh is a wonderful location where the tourists will feel relaxed and rejuvenated. So, let’s go through some super interesting facts about Himachal Pradesh.

1. Himachal Pradesh was a union territory till 1970.

   

   On January 25, 1971, Himachal Pradesh became the 18th state of India after passing of Himachal Pradesh State Act, 1970. During the British rule, Himachal Pradesh was a part of Punjab Province and then later in April 1948, it became a Union Territory as a result of the integration of 30 Princely states.

2. Himachal Pradesh dates back to the period of Indus Valley civilization.

   

   The foothills of the state are thought to be inhabited by the people from Indus Valley Civilization which flourished between the time period of 2250 B.C. to 1750 B.C. It is believed that people of Indus valley civilization pushed the original inhabitants of Ganga plains towards the north. They moved towards the hills of Himachal Pradesh.

3. One of the least corrupt states of India.

   

   Himachal Pradesh holds the title of being the second least corrupt state of India after Kerala. The survey was conducted by the Centre for Media Studies on the basis of people’s experience in paying bribes for public services. So you can be less worried here of getting duped or overcharged here.

4. The state holds two listed UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

   

   The Kalka-Shimla Railway and the Great Himalayan National Park in Kullu, both have been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. One a manmade marvel and another untouched by humans.

5. The Kalka-Shimla Toy Train holds the world record to cover the steepest slope of 5826 ft in just 96 km.

   

   This rail route features in the Guinness Book of World Records for offering the steepest rise in altitude in the space of 96 kilometres. More than two-thirds of the track is curved, sometimes at angles as sharp as 48 degrees.

6. Malana- The Village of Taboos.

   

   Malana, an ancient village of Himachal Pradesh has many secrets that have been maintained in the village for ages. It has one of the oldest Democracy of the world. They even consider themselves to be the descendants of Alexander the Great and consider outsiders as inferior. It is considered “Village of Taboos” because of its strict rules of no outsider touching their belongings. Everything here comes under No Touching zone for the visitors.

7. Asia’s oldest Natural Ice skating rink.

   

   Shimla has Asia’s oldest and South Asia’s only natural ice skating rink. It is also the only natural ice skating rink of India. This largest open-air rink attracts many tourists and locals who enjoy ice-skating. Ice skating in Shimla will definitely make your trip fun with adventure.

8. First Smoke-free state of India.

   

   Himachal Pradesh was declared as being the first "smoke-free" state in the country in 2013 for achieving 85.42 per cent compliance with the relevant parameters.

9. World's highest cricket ground.

   

   Located at an altitude of 7500 ft, the Chail Cricket Ground is the highest cricket ground in the world. It was built in the year 1893, this ground is also used as a polo ground, located at the height of around 2,444m. It is known as one of the famous cricket stadiums in India.

10. The electrifying Bijli Mahadeo temple.

    

    This temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located at the height of 2,450 m and is known as the ‘Temple of Lightening’. It is believed that the temple possesses a Shiva Linga, which had broken into pieces due to lightning. The broken pieces of the Shiva Linga were bound together by the temple priest using butter. This activity repeats itself once every year.

I am sure you must be fascinated after knowing such intriguing facts about Himachal Pradesh. Plan a vacation with family or friends and book your online train as well as flight tickets through Trainman app. Download Trainman App to check PNR Status of your ticket, Train between stations, Train Seat Availability and much more.