HIMACHAL PRADESH

Geographic location:- 30022 -330 12 North latitude

750 47 790 4 East Longitude.

Area:- 55,673 km2

Population (Cencus2011):- 68, 56,509

Average altitude:- 350 7000 meters (from mean sea level)

j&k

Himachal is a mountainous state. There is a general increase in elevation

from West to East and from South to North. (Covers the same area as
Jalandhara known to the ancient geographers in India).
PB

HP

TIBET

UK

HIMACHAL TOPOGRAPHY

HR

Topographically, Himachal can be divided into three different zones from South to North:1. Alpine Zone (The Greater Himalyas)
2. Inner Himalyas (Mid Mountains)
3. The Shivaliks (Outer Himalayas)

Alpine zone
altitude-4500mtrs
& above

Mid Himalyas altitude1500-4500 mtrs

Shivalik Hills (Mainak Parvat) (Tresses of

Shiva) Annual Rainfall:1500-1800mm Altitude
: 300-1500 mtrs

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Zansker Ranges (separetes

Spiti & Kinnaur)
(Shilla- 7,025 mtrs) from
Tibet
(Riwo Pharggyal- 6971 mtrs).
Dhauladhar:Kangra,
Chamba, mandi
Pir Panjal:- Chamba (lagrest
of lower Himalyas ).

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1. Shivalik Famous Places:

I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
XI.
XII.

Paonta Valley
Nahan
Pachhad
Renuka

Bhatiya
Chutah

VI.
VII.

Sirmour

VI.
VII.
VIII.
IX.
X.

Chamba

Balh
Joginder nagar

Kangra
Nurpur
Dehra
Jwali
Palampur

Mandi

Kangra

Cultivation:- Maize, Wheat, Sugarcane, Paddy, Potatoes and Citrus Fruits.

2. The Inner Himalayas:Famous Places: - Dhauladhar & Pir Panjal
I.
II.
III.
IV.

Pachhad
Renuka
Chachiot
karsog

V.
VI.
VII.

Sirmour
Mandi

Dalhousie
Chamba
Bhatiyat
Upper parts of Kangra
and Palampur

Cultivation: - Soil of upper parts of Shimla, Sirmour and Chamba is shallower in depth. From horticultural point of view this
area is the most useful for stone and soft fruits.
3. The Greater Himalyas or Alpine Zone:Famous Places: - Kinnour, Pangi (Chamba), some area of Lahaul & Spiti.
Cultivation: - as the rainfall is very scanty and soil is of high texture with variable fertility so this climate and soil is best
suited for cultivation of dry fruits.
V.
Rohtang pass
I.
Sach pass
Famous places of this zone: VI.
Kunzum pass
Kinnour
II.
Chini pass
Chamba
VII.
Bara
lacha
pass
III.
Chabia pass
VIII.
Hamta pass
IV.
Kugti pass
Lahul &
IX.
Chandra kherni passs
Spiti

Physiographic Division of Himachal Pradesh

Physiographically Himachal Pradesh can be divided into five Zones

Wet Sub- temperate

Zone

Humid Subtemperate Zone

I.
II.
III.
IV.

I.
II.

Palampur
Dharamshala
Joginderanagar
Dalhousie

Kullu
Shimla
Parts of:III.
Mandi
IV.
Solan
V.
Chamba
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VI.
Kangra
VII.
Sirmour
VIII.

Dry Temperate zone

(Alpine High lands)
I.
II.
III.

Lahual Spiti
Pangi
Kinnour

Humid sub
temperate zone
I.

Sub Humid Tropical

Zone

Major parts
I.
Una
of bilaspur
II.
Paonta Sahib
II.
Mandi
III.
Indora ( Kangra)
III.
Nahan
IV.
Bhatiyat
V.
Nalagarh
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VII.
Nurpur

Climate of Himachal Pradesh

The climate of Himachal Pradesh varies at different altitudes from Semi- Tropical to Semi- Arctic.
Average Rainfall in HP-152 cms (60 inches)
Highest rainfall- Dharamshala (3400 mm per annum)
Least rainfall- Spiti (below 50 mm) .

Various climatic regions:Climate Region

Altitudinal Range in meters

Arctic

Over 4500

Sub arctic

3500- 4500

Temperate

2000- 3500

Sub tropical

700- 2000

Tropical

Below 700

Seasons in Himachal Pradesh

Mainly divided into three seasons:1.
2.
3.
4.

Cold Or Sardi Or Thandi :- October- February

Hot (Garmi) :- March_ June
Rainy Or Barsat :- July- September
Spring* :- Mid February- March.

Physiographic Effects on the climate of Himachal Pradesh

1.
2.
3.
4.

South facing slopes receive more sunlight and rain.

The lower slopes lying behind high ridge are shady and fall in the rain shadow zone.
There occurs less precipitation in the form of snow on south facing slopes.
The snow line is higher on Southern aspects.

The Chronological Existence and rise of Himachal Pradesh in

independent India

According to surveyor general of India the total area of HP- 55673 km2 which is divided into 12 districts.
Out of this total area 32, 271 km2 (58%) is measured area according to the records.
Area wise smallest district - Hamirpur i.e. 1118 km2 (2.01%)
Area wise largest dirtrict Lahul- Spiti i.e. 13,835 km2 (24.85%).

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 ON 15TH April, 1948 Himachal Pradesh came into being existence as a Chief Commissioner Province as a result of
merger of 30 provinces or princely states of Punjab and Shimla Hills.
At that time all 30 princely states were organized into four districts viz- Chamba, Mahasu, Mandi and Sirmour with
an area of 27,169km2.
In 1951 it was made a part C state.
On july 1st, 1954, Bilaspur (area of 1068 km2 ) was merged into H.P.
Till 1956 Himachal Pradesh maintained its status of a part-c.
In 1960 the border tehsil of Mahasu district (Chinni tehsil) was covered out as a separate administrative unit and
district Kinnour was formed raising the total number of district of six.
In 1963 territorial council was provided to the state.
Its status as union territory continued till the award of a full fledged state hood on 25th January. 1971,
On 1stnovember 1966 the Punjab state was recognized with the formation of Haryana as a separate state and
merger of tham Kullu, Kangra , Shimla,some area of Hoshiarpur district and Dalhousie of Gurdaspur district of
Panjab into Himchal Pradesh.
Thus constituting four new districts viz.
1. Lahaul Spiti
2. Kangra
3. Shimla
4. Dalhousie of Chamba (total 10 districts) with an area -55673 km2.
st
On 1 September, 1972 two more districts viz.1. Hamirpur
2. Una were created by trifurcation of Kangra and Mahasu districts was recognized as Shimla and Solan
districts.

Lakes in Himachal Pradesh

I.

Bilaspur
I.

II.

Govindsagar Lake:- Greatest Artificial lake in HP built on Satluj river in Bilaspur.

Pt.J.L. Nehru called it as New temple of resurgent India.
Area 168 km2 (exists between slappar and Bhakhra- 88km long).
Govind Sagar is countrys largest fishing pond. (10000 hect.silt)

Chamba
II.
III.

IV.
V.
VI.
VII.

Ghadasaru Lake:- 24 kms from Tissa. Tissa is 72 kms from Chamba at an altitude of 3505 msl with the
circumference of nearly 1 km.
Khajjiar lake:- it is 24 km from Dalhousie on the way to Chamba. Khajjiar is also known as Mini
Switzerland . in the center of grassy meadow it is 1.5 km long and 1 km wide and surrounded by cedar
forest, a small Lake called KUND. A tiny island covered with reeds keep floating to divine seasons.
Lama Dal Lake:- 45 kms form Chamba on the inner slopes of Dhauladhar Range. This is a group of seven
lakes, the largest of all is Lama Dal Lake at an altitude of 3962 mtrs (13,200 feet). Area- about 2 km2.
Manimahesh Lake:- 35 kms from Bharmour at an altitude of 3950 meters. On the foot of mount Kailash.
This lake is supposed to be blessed by Kali and protected by Lord Shiva.
Mahakali lake:- located in Churah of Chamba at an altitude of 3657 mtrs. Dedicated to godess Kali.
Chanderkup Lake:- Located in the upper region of Chamba towards Dharmashala at an altitude of 3450
mtrs (14000 feet).
This lake is situated at the highest altitude in the Dhauladhar range.

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LAKES IN HIMACHAL
Himachal is to be called as paradise on earth due the presence of myriad lakes with cool and serene water. The most
famous lakes in Himachal Pradesh are as given below:

BILASPUR
1. GOVIND SAGAR:- In district Bilaspur of HP, an artificial lake is formed on Bhakra Dam on the Satluj river called as
Govindsagar lake. Bhakra is worlds highest gravity Dam. The area of this lake is about 168 km2 famous for water
sport and fishing. It is also to be considered as countrys largest fishing pond. Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru described as a
New temple of Resurgent India.

CHAMBA

2. CHAMERA:- This lake is situated at a distance of 25 km from Dalhousie. It is formed owing to construction of 540
mw Chamera Hydroelectric Project on river Ravi near village Chamera.
3. CHANDERKUP LAKE:-It is located in upper region of Chamba towards Dharamshala at an altitude of 3450 mtrs
(1400 ft). During summer ice blocks keep floating in it which adds beauty to this lake. This lake is situated at
highest altitude in Dhauladhar range.
4. GHADASARA LAKE:- A beautiful lake with the circumference nearly about 1 km located at the altitude of 3505
mtrs at the distance of 24 kms. Tirsa is 72 kms from Chamba.
5. KHAJJIAR LAKE: - It is approximately 24 kms from Dalhousie on the way to Chamba. Surrounded by Cedar forest
and at the center of grassy meadow with the dimensions of 1.5 km long and 1km wide this lake is also called as
Kund.

ABOUT KHAJJIAR
Khajjiar is also called as Mini Switzerland. It is located at an altitude of 1951 meters. It was named as Mini
Switzerland by Swiss Envoy Willy P.Blazer on 7th July, 1992 meters and was put on international map. He put up a
yellow Swiss hiking footpath signboard which formally and officially declared Khajjiar as Mini Switzerland. This
signboard also indicates the actual distance from the Swiss Capital Berne to Khajjiar as 6194 kms. Hence Khajjiar
became the 160th tourist spot in the world to be crowned as Mini Switzerland.
6. LAMA DAL LAKE:- This is also called as the Group of Seven Lakes and the largest of all in Lama Lakes. At an
altitude of 3962 meters (13200 ft) this lake is 45 kms from Chamba and 20 kms from Dainkund. The area of this
lake is about 2 km2.
7. MAHAKALI LAKE:- This lake is located in Churah area of Chamba district at an altitude of 3657 meters. It is
dedicated to Godess Kali.
8. MANIMAHESH LAKE:- At the foot of Mount Kailash at an altitude of 5,660 mtrs this lake is 35 kms from Bharmour.
This lake is supposed to be blessed by Kali and protected by Lord Shiva. A fair is held every year at this lake during
the month of August & September.

KANGRA

9. DAL LAKE:- This lake is located in Kangra 11 km from Dharamshala at an altitude of 1775mtrs. This lake is also
called as Bhagsunag lake. This lake is dedicated to Lord Driveshwar built by sage Agastya. After 15 days of
Janmashtami a fair known as Radhashtami takes place there.
10. KARERI LAKE:- Surrounded by green meadows, Oak and Pine trees Kareri lake is 35 kms from Dharamshala at an
elevation of 1810 mtrs.

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11. PONG LAKE:- This lake is formed in 1960 AD on the Beas river between Dehra and Pandoh. Consisting the various
mass of water form 180 km2 400 km2. This lake was declared as sanctuary in 1983 AD.
The Pong Dam is the only place in India other than Bharatpur(Rajasthan) where the rare Red-Necked Grebe has
been found. Expectedly 30000 to 50000 migratory birds belonging 54 species visit lake every year.

KINNAUR
12. NAKO LAKE:- This lake is located near Nako village at an altitude of 3662 mtrs. As this lake freezes in winters, it is
famous for skating.
13. SORONG LAKE:- The another lake in Kinnaur is Sorong lake at Nichar.

KULLU
14. BHRIGU LAKE:- This sacred lake is situated near Rohtang Pass at an altitude 4235 mtrs. Almost 3 mtrs deep this
lake remains under snow for the whole winter. This lake is visited by people of Kullu,Manali, Mandi and Lahaul.
15. SERVALSAR LAKE:- Approximatel20 kms form Banjar towards Anni a beautiful lake is located in the lap of Jalori
Pass at the height of 3100 mtrs.

LAHUAL & SPITI

16. CHANDRA TAL:- This lake is located at an altitude of 4270 mtrs in middle Lahual. It is also known as Lake of the
Moon it is the source of Chandra River.
*Chinese pilgrim Hieu Tsang called this lake Lhitya Sarover. The dimensions of this lake are 1.2x1.6 kms.
17. SURAJ TAL:- In Lahual & Spiti this lake is located at an altitude of 4800 mtrs opposite to Baralacha and also the
source of Bhaga River.
18. UNAM SO LAKE:- Situated in Lahual & Spiti.

MANDI
19. KALASAR LAKE:- Located on the top of Rewalsar Town at an altitude of 1755 mtrs.
20. KUMARWAH:- This lake is situated in Chachiyat tehsil of Mandi which is 40 km from Mandi town at an altitude of
3150 mtrs (Gold & Silver offering).
21. KUNT BHAYOG LAKE:- Situated on the top of Rewalsar town at an altitude of 1700 mtrs. This lake is surrounded by
hills from two sides and approximately 12-15 mtrs deep at the center.
22. PANDOH LAKE:- This lake is formed due to the construction of Pandoh Dam on Beas river and is located about 14
Kms from Mandi. From the Pandoh Dam the water of the Beas River is diverted to Satluj at Slappar with the two
tunnels of 13 kms each.
23. PRASHAR LAKE:- A beautiful lake at an altitude of 30 kms form Mandi at an altitude of 2743 mtrs. A three stored
temple in Pagoda art is located on its bank.
24. REWALSAR LAKE:- This lake is located about 25 kms. from Mandi and is also called as Lake is floating Islands.
This lake is supposed to be associated with Budhist Monk Padamsambhav and hence called as Padmacan to the
Budhist which means Lotus Possessing.
This lake has religious importance as it is associated with three different religions:

Buddhism

Hinduism

Sikkhism (Gurudwara)

(Padam Sambhav)

(Lomash Rishi)

(Guru Govind Singh Ji visisted this place)

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25. SUKHSAR LAKE:- This lake is also located on the top of Rewalsar Lake at an altitude of 1760 mtrs.

SHIMLA
26. CHANDRA NAHAN LAKE:- In Rohru tensile of Shimla district this lake is situated on Chanshal Peak at an altitude
of 4267 mtrs. This lake is also the origin of Pabar River.
27. KARALI LAKE:- This lake is located on the other side of Shali Peak (almost equal to Anna Dale Ground).
28. Tanu Jubbal Lake:- located near Narkanda in Shimla district.

SIRMOUR
29. RENUKA LAKE:- This lake is located approximately at the distance of Nahan town. With the circumference of 2.5
kms it is the largest Natural Lake of Himachal Pradesh. The shape of this lake is like a sleeping lady who has a
mythical relation of Godess Renuka, the mother of Lord Parshuram and wife of Rishi Jamdagni. Lord Parshuram is
to be supposed as the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
30. SUKETI LAKE:- It is located near Shivalik Fossil Park in district Sirmour.
Sr.No.

River

Origin

Vedic
Name

Sanskrit
Name

1.

Satluj

Mahasarover

Saturi

Shatadru

2.

Beas

Rohtang Pass

Arijikiya

Bipasha

3.

Ravi

Bara Bhangal
(Kangra)

Puroshini

Irawati

4.

Chenab

Chandra+Bhaga at
Tandi (L&S)

Asikni

Kalind Mountain
(Yamnotri in UK)
enters from KhodriMazri (Paonta Sahib)
In HP it has mythical
relation with Lord
Shiva

Kalindi

5.

Yamuna

Length

Water
catchment
Area

Tributaries

320 km
(HP)
1448 km
(total)
256 km
(HP)
460 km
(total)

50140 km2

Baspa, Spiti,
Nogli,Soan

12000 km2

158 km
(HP)
720 Km
(Total)
122 km
(HP)
1200 km
(total)
22 km
(HP)
460 km
(Total)

5451 km2

Baner, Banganga,
Awa River Chakki,
Gaj Khadd, Luni,
Harli, Parbati,
Patlikuhal, Sainj,
Tirthan, Uhal
(Kullu)
Bhaddal, Siul, Baira,
Tatangiri, Swan
(Una)

Famous Towns

Namagiyan,
Kalpa, Rampur,
Tattapani,
Bilaspur
Manali, Mandi,
Kullu, Pandoh,
Naduan,
Sujanpur, Dehra
Gopipur

Chamba,
Bharmour

7500 km2

Chandra, Bhaga,
Miyar Nullah

Tandi (L & S)

2320 km2

Jalal, Markandey,
Andhra, Giri, Ashni,
Bata, Pabbar, Tons

Paonta Sahib

HOT SPRINGS IN HIMACHAL

Himachal Pradesh has been embellished with a number of hot springs by nature. Generally there are three types of
springs found in Himachal Pradesh.

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TYPES OF HOT SPRINGS

1
Ordinary Springs

Temporary
ordinary springs

Mineral Springs

Thermal Water Springs

Permanent
ordinary springs

District Wise Distribution of Hot Springs in

Himachal Pradesh
MANDI
1. TATTAPANI : This Hot spring is located on the bank of Satluj river 51 kilometers from Shimla and altitude of 656
meters. This Hot spring is said to have rich in Sulphur and curative for skin diseases. Now the most of the part of
this spring has submerged in Satluj river due to the construction of Kol Dam Project.

KULLU
2. MANIKARAN : A number of Hot springs are located on the bank of Parvati river at Manikaran 45 kilometers from
Kullu. The water gashes up with pressure and its temperature is so hot (above boiling point) that pulses, rice,
vegetables can be boiled and cooked in it.
*There is no Sulphur or Iron in the water but is said to be Radio-Active. This hot water spring is said to have
related to Lord Shiva.
3. KASOL: It is located 1 km upstream Manikaran and 32 kms from Bhunter (First Airport of Himachal Pradesh). It is
located opposite to Nikhthan village 42 kms from Kullu on the bank of Parvati river.
4. KHIRGANGA: It is situated at 26 kms from Kullu.
5. VASHISHTHA: This hot water spring is located 3kms from Manali on the left bank of Beas river. The origin of hot
spring may be either Magmatic (originating from magma) or Meteoric.
*Hot springs are mostly alkaline although there are several that are acidic containing Calcium, Silica and Sulphur.
(This hot spring is associated with Ashwamegh Yagya of Lord Rama, Laxman and their Kul Guru Vashisht.

KINNAUR
6. JEORI: Located on the right bank of Unu Nallah beyond Rampur Bushahr at Jeori in Kinnaur district.
7. TAPRI: Hot water spring in Kinnaur at a small town named as Tapri.

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FESTIVALS IN HIMACHAL
Himachal Pradesh is not only a land of beautiful mountains with misty meadow but also a mirror of cultural and rich civilization
reflection. People are peace loving but they are greatly enthusiazed for the fairs and festivals.
The main festivals observed in Himachal ranges from the small villages to some international level. The some of important festivals are:
1.

2.

3.

Chet (Dholru):-This festival is observed in the first month of Lunur i.e. Chaitra. Thats why this festival is also known as Chatrali
in Kullu and Dholru in Bharmour of Chamba district. In this festival the people of Dhaki, Turi or Shehnai community go from
village to village singing and dancing.
Baisiakhi:- Celebrated on 13th April every year. Mainly this festival is celebrated in the district bordering with Punjab. But also
celebrated in the area of Shimla hills also. It is also called as Bisowa in Kangra, Bissue in Shimla and Sirmour and Lisshoo in
Pangi of Chamba.
Haryali:- Celebrated in Sawan (July and August) every year. The word Haryali means green. This festival is a symbol of green
environment and protection of cattle. Farmers do not yoke oxen.
The other names for this festival is;
I.
Shegtsum- Lahaul
II.
Dhakhrain- Jubbal and Kinnour
III.
Haryali- Kangra and Sirmour
IV.
Cheeren-di-sajj- Mandi, Bilaspur, Hamirour, Una and Kangra
In Lahual area Sattu flour and Butter is offered to Gephan Or Guru Ghantal

4.

5.

6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.

13.
14.

Rakhi:- Rakhi is celebrated on the full moon in Sharawan month. The other names given to this festival is:
I.
Rakrunya and Salunnu:- Mandi and Sirmour
II.
Rakhpunya- Shimla
III.
Rakhi- Kangra, Una, Hamirpur
Chrewal:- This festival is celebrated on the first of Bhadon (middle August) and also called as Prithvi Pooja.
The other manes given to this festival is:
I.
Bhadranjo- Kullu
II.
Pathroru- Chamba
Jagra:- This festival is generally celebrated in the month of September in Shimla, Kinnour and Sirmour regions and dedicated
to the worship of Mahasu Devta.
Phulech (U-Khyang):- Celebrated in the month of Bhadon (August). This festival is celebrated in Kinnour and also known as
festival of Flowers as the flowers are offered to village deity.
Sair:- This festival is celebrated in September in New Himachal and also called as Bara-din to hill men. In some areas barbers
show mirror to villages who give him reward.
Jidjed:- A religious festival celebrated in Lahual & spiti and Kinnour in the month of October especially at Thang-gyud
Monastery.
Guitor:- Held in the monoarties at Kee, Tbao, Dankar, and Pin Spiti. The main attraction is Masked dance.
Dushehra:- Celebrated on Dashmi (10 th day of calebration).it is a symbol of victory over the illness. People make bonfire of
effigies of Ravan, Kunbhkarna and Meghnatha.
Diwali- This festivcal is celebrated in the month of October November when Lord Rama returned to home Ayodhya offer
killinh ravan. This festival is locally known as Diali or Bari Diali. But in Nirmund area of Kullu and trans Giri area of Sirmour
Budhi Diwali is celebrated immediately after one month on the same day.
In lauhal ir is called as Kaojala and celebrated in the month of Magha. People of village carry Mashal Light and
throw them to particular place. Everyone throws leaves of Deodar tree in the name of Gephan and Bajreshwari
Devi
Halda:- Halda is also a festival of light similar to Diwali and is celebrated in Gohar and Gandhla Valleys in Lahual. Although
the date of the this festival is not fixed, it is almost celebrated in February.
Lohri:- Celebrated on the 1st of Magh (Mid January and also called as Maghi or Saza locally. This festival is recently
connected to the measure against female feticides. According to historical fact it is believed that lohri was first celebrated by
Jaswan State especially at Paragpur In 16th and 17 th century.

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FAIRS IN HIMACHAL PRADESH

In Himachal Pradesh there are approximately 5 international level and 20 state level fairs and festivals during every year.

BILASPUR
1.
2.

3.

GUGGA FAIR:- This festival is related to Lord Gugga and celebrated in the month of August- September by the snake cult in
Gehrwin village of district Bilaspur. It is also celebrated in Balokhar of Hamirpur.
NALWARI FAIR:- This fair is also as cattle fair. Nalwari is a state level fair which is organized in Luhnu ground in the month of
March. The idea of this fair was conceived by W.Goldstein the superintendent of Shimla Hill state during the reign of Raja
Amar Chand Gahloor.
MARKANDA FAIR:- In district Bilaspur in the month of April at Markanda (Jukhala).

CHAMBA
4.
5.
6.
7.

8.
9.

BHARMOUR JATRA:- This fair is held in district Chamba in the month of August.
CHHATRARI JATRA FAIR:- In district Chamba in the month of September.
PHOOL JATRA FAIR:- Held in October at Killer Pangi.
MINJAR FAIR:- This fair is held on Second Sunday of August at Chaugan in Chamba town. It is an international level fair and
was started by Sahil Varman. This faior is associate with Lord Varuna. The people of Chamba offer maize to the Lord Varuna
who is supposed to be as the God of Rain.
Mani Mahesh Jatra:- Held in the Mani Mahesh area. This sacred fair continues for two to three months.
SUI FAIR:- This fair is held in the month of April near Naina Devi temple in Chamba town. Naina Devi was the queen of Sahil
Varman who scarified herself to bring water to Chamba town. This fair is associated with women and children only.

HAMIRPUR
10. GASOTA FAIR:- Gasota fair is held at Gasota in Hamirpur in the month of May.
11. HOLI:- This festival was started by Sansaarchand and held in the month of March every year at Sujanpur Teehra.

12.
13.
14.
15.
16.

KANGRA
A

DAL FAIR:- Held in the month of August.

JWALAMUKHI FAIR:- Held twice a year during Navratras for the worship of Goddess Durga.
KALESHWAR FAIR:- A state level fair Related to Lord Shiva in April.
NAGINI FAIR:- A state level fair held at Nurpue Kangra in the month of Sawan (Mid August).
PANCH BHISHAM FESTIVAL:- It is a five day festival. This festival is celebrated as the marriage of Tulsi and Saligram and also to
remember the great warrior and Guru of Pandvas Pitamah Bheeshma. On this festival the people of Kangra visit the Jayanti
Mata temple in Kangra town in the month of November.

KINNOUR
17. PHULAICH (U-LCHYANG):- Celebrated in the month of September.
18. LOSAR:- Celebrated as the new area by the tribal people of Kinnour in the month of Chaitra (March-April).

KULLU
19. BANJAR MELA AND BHWIN MELA FAIR:- Held in the month of May and June.
20. DUNGRI FAIR:- This fair is celebrated at Manali in the month of May.
21. KULLU DUSHHEHRA:- Also called as Viajydhashmin. It is an international fair and lasts for seven days at Dhalpur Maidan. The
famous idol of Raghunath Ji was brought from Ayodhya in July 1651 AD by the Damodar Das and was installed in Kullu by
Raja Jagat Singh. The pulling of ropes of the chariot of Raghunath Ji is supposed to be as sacred. The festival starts only with
the arrival of Hidimba Devi from Manali.
*Baijnath is the only town in Himachal where Dushehra is not celebrated.
*There is no goldsmith in Baijnath town.

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22. MANALI WINTER CARNIVAL NATIONAL FESTIVAL:- This winter carnival is held in December- January every year. A Five day
long festival was upgraded by the then Chief Minister P.K.Dhumal for the upliftment of tourist sector in the area.

LAHUAL & SPITI

23. LADARCHHA
24. TRILOKINATH (UDAYPUR)

MANDI
25. SECHU FAIR:- This fair is held at 13TH April every year at Rewalsar. It has religious importance for Hindu, Sikh and Buddhist.
26. SHIVRATRI FAIR:- This fair is observed in the month of February on Shivratri and continues for a week people pay homage to
Lord Shiva at Bhutnath Temple in Mandi town.

ABOUT BHUTNATH TEMLPLE

The Bhutnath temple was built by Raja Ajbar Sen when he founded the famous Mandi town in 16th century.
27. SKODI FAIR:- This fair is held at Dogh village in Jogindernagar from 26th- 28th of Chaitra (April) every year for three days.
Although no temple is there, this fair in held in memory of a woman who performed Sati (sacrifice) near the Skodi Khad. So, it
is called as Skodi fair.

SHIMLA
28. BUFFALO FAIR:- This fair is celebrated in the month of September at village Kufri near Mashobra in Shimla. It is famous for the
fight of Buffaloes.
29. GHUND FAIR:- Ghund is a small village situated at a distance of about 12 km from Theog. Once Ghund was the capital of small
Ghud state. This festival is celebrated in the month of Ashadha (June-July) in honor of Shirgul and Mahasu Devta. Archery is
the one of the main attractions of this fair.
30. JARNA FAIR:- Also called as Bishu of Jarna near Pul Bahal in Chopa. This festival is celebrated on 14th & 15th of Baishakha
(April) in honor of Devta Shirgul.
31. LAVI FAIR:- this is the first International fair of Himachal. This fair is celebrated between 11th - 14th September of every year
and was started by Kehri singh. The word Lavi is derived from LOE which is local dialect means sheet of woolen cloth.
Another meaning of Lavi is sharing of the sheep.
32. PAKHAR KA KHEL FAIR:- This strange fair is celebrated at Halog village near Ghanahatti in Shimla district on the month of
October and November on the next day of Diwali. In this festival the people of two dynasties throw stones on one another
until or unless someone is not injured. The blood drops of victim is devoted to Lord.
33. PURAG FAIR:- Purag is a small village near Kotkhai tehsil of Shimla district. In this village this festival is celebrated either 9th
11th or from 11th 13th of Baishakha (April) in the honor of Mahadev Devta. In this fair the delicious food is brought to sisters
or daughters home.
34. ROHRU JATRA:- It is celebrated in the month of April in Rohru town of Shimla district.
35. SIPPI FAIR:- This fair is celebrated near Mashobra in the month of May.
36. THALOG FAIR:- This fair is celebrated in the Pargana Jakholi of Chopal in Shimla district at the end of Baishakha month and is
locally known as Bishu of Thalog.

SOLAN
36. SHOOLINI FAIR:- Shoolini fair is celebrated in the last week of June for three days. This fair is dedicated to Godess Shoolini
om whose name the Solan city was named after. Shoolini is to supposed as the incarnation of Goddess Durga.
37. SARI FAIR:- This festival is celebrated in the month of July at Arki town in Solan.

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SIRMOUR
38. RENUKA FAIR:- This fair starts 10 days after Diwali almost in the month of November. According to legend the Lord
Parshuram used to visit his mother every year during this time.
39. TRILOKPUR FAIR:- This fair is desiccated to Goddess Balasundri and celebrated at village Trilokpur near Nahan town in the
month of September.

UNA
40. BABA BADBHAG SINGH:- This fair is celebrated in the month of June.
41. CHINTPURNI FAIR:- Celebrated in the month of during Navratras. This fair is also locally known as Mata-da-Mela. It is believed
that here the feet of Goddess Sati fallen once.

TEMPLES IN HIMACHAL PRADESH

BILASPUR
1.

NAINA DEVI TEMPLE:- This festival is located in Bilaspur. It was built by Veerchand. As per legend it is supposed that the eyes
of Goddess Sati fell on this place. Sati was supposed to be as the wife of Lord Shiva.

CHAMBA
Chamba district is known for its unique art and architecture and especially the ancient art of Chamba reflect its beauty in the
construction of temples in all over the district. The art of Bronze Sculpture was patronized by Meru Varman, the king who
ruled the area in 6th century A.D. the famous temples in Chamba are as following:2.
3.
4.

5.
6.
7.
8.
9.

GANESHA TEMPLE:- This temple is located in the Bharmour area of Chamba and was built during the reign of Meru Varman.
HARIRAY TEMPLE:- This temple was build in 11th century Laxman Varman and is located in Chamba. There is an idol of Lord
Vishnu with four heads (Chaturmukkhi) which was stolen on 7th May 1971 but was recovered on 8th July 1971 from Mumbai.
LAKSHMI NARAYANA TEMPLE:- This temple was built by Sahil Varman (920-940 AD) and dedicated to Narayana an
Incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is a group of six temples in a row. A brass image of Gauri Shankar in one of the shrines was
installed by Yugankar, the son of Sahil Varman.
LAKSHANA DEVI TEMPLE:- This temple is located in the Bharmour Valley of Chamba. It is dedicated to Manimahesh Mardini
Durga and was build during the reign of Meru Varman (64 Gugga Shilpi).
MANI MAHESH:- This temple is located in the Bharmour tehsil of Cahmba district. It was built during the region of Meru
Varman and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
NAR SINGH TEMPLE:- This temple is also located in the Bharmour valley of Chamba and dedicated to Lord Nar Singh the
incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This temple was built by Tribhuvan Rekha Devi.
SHAKTI DEVI TEMPLE:- Shakti Devi temple is located in the Chhatrari of district Chamba. This temple was also built during the
reign of Meru Varman by Architecture Gugga.
CHAURASI TEMPLE:- A group of 84 temples is located in Bharmour of Chamba district.

HAMIRPUR
10. BABA BALAK NATH TEMPLE:- Sidh Baba Balak Nath is a famous Hindu deity worshiped in Himachal and Punjab. His shrine is
known Deotsidh located at the distasnce of about 45 kms from Hamirpur. Baba Balak Bath temple is situated at a hillock near
village Chakmoh. At the distance of six kilometers one another shrime of Baba Balak Nath is situated which is known as
Shahtalai. According to legend Baba Balak Nath used to graze the cattle of Mata Ratno.
11. GASOTA TEMPLE:- Located in Hamirpur.

12. GAURI SHANKAR TEMPLE:- This temple was built by Sansar Chand and located in Sujanpur Tihra.
13. MURLI MANOHAR TEMPLE:- This temple is also in Sujanpur Tihra and was built by Sansar Chand.
14. NARBADESHWAR TEMPLE:- This was built by Sansarchand and located in Sujanpur Tihra. This temple is dedicated to Lord
Shiva.

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ANCIENT TRIBES IN HIMCHAL

Dasas:- They are supposed to be related to the Pre Vedic Era who put a great resistance to August . But later on they were
accepted into the Aryan fold.
1.

3.

4.

5.

Kinners:kinner= kim+ Nara

Which means what kind of strange person they are? The look of kinnour is that of Half man and Half Horse mean the people
with Ashwamukha. According to legends Pradumna the son of Lord Krishna was the earliest king of the Kinner. It is also
believed that Raja Vir Bhadra Singh (six time chief minister of HP) is the 131st descendant of this dynasty.
Kiratas:- According to the description of Kirtarjuniya of Bhairvi Kiratas were supposed to be the people lived between the
Jamuna and Satluj. Thay were supposed to be as the people of lower cast with the name of Chandalas and Kaivartas and
Shambhar nwas their powerfull king who fought the long battle of 40 years with Aryan King Divodas.
Nagas:- In the ancient times this tribe supposed to be inhabited in the Himalyan region. Naga literally meant serpent. They
were the worshipers of Nag devta. According to Hindu mythology they worship eight Nagas out of which Sheshnaga was
prominent who is to be supposed as lifting the whole earth on head.
The famous shrines of Nagas in HP are Hagchala (Mandi) Rewalsar Lake & Kamru Nag.
Khashas:- according to the Puranas Khashas was the Rajput tribe of Kumoun Garhwal and Norht west part of Nepal. Inn
Brihat samhita of Varahmihira the Khashas were mentioned as the people of Kulutas (Kullu) and Kashmiras.
Distributions of Khashas:- Shimla, Sirmour, Kullu and Kinoou r in Hp and Teri, Kumaon and Garhwal area of Uttrakhand.
About religion Khasas have village God system. Village Gods are supposed to be as the protector of their habitat. The Gur
(Oracles) represent the spirit of Gods. The prominent Gods of Khasas are Hatkoti Devi, Mahasu, Shirgul, Nag deities,
Chureshwar, Koteshwar, Dom, Chikreshwar etc.
Food and Dress Of Khasha:- Khasas do not have any particular dress. In Kinnour the men and women wear Gachi (Waist String)
and Chhuba (long coat) as well as Dohru (warm Sari). But in some areas Thipuh (head scart) is used by women and men wear
Achkan.
Community System: - The Khasas have various warrior groups called as Khoond. There are mainly two types of Khoonds:I.
Shatha (sixty i.e. Kaura group)
ll.
Pasha (five i.e. Kaurava group)
They are further divided into:I.
II.
III.
IV.

Charbishi (4x20)
Chhabishi (6x20)
Barabishi (12x20)
Pandrabishi (15x20)

Thoda (martial 60w and arrow game) is the common type of sport among Khasas.
6.
7.

Pishachas:- They were supposed to be as the inhabitant of North frontier and the adjoining Himalyan tract. The tribe is also
known as Rakhas in ancient times.
Yaskshas:- in the great Hindu epic Mahabharta there was encounter between Yudhushtharg and Yaksha. They were supposed
to be as mysteries human power.

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HISTORY OF HIMACHAL
The history of Himachal Pradesh is obscure and does not give the clear picture of any of the aspects pertaining to the history since the ancient times.
The major responsible factor for this issue is not clear evidences. We can get very few knowledge about the history of state by using some
archeological resources and special reference to numismatics. As the various excavations are made on the various places like Guler, Dhaliara, Masrur,
Jwalamukhi, Dehra-Gopipur and Nurpur. We have a few resources of history of Himachal Pradesh. The main resources of history are:1. Archaeological Resources:i.
COINS- Coins give the important contribution to depict the history of Himachal Pradesh as many coins of ancient time are found in many
areas of Himachal. Earlier, coins were given no attention but later on with the establishment of Himachal state Museum in 1973-74 in
Shimla the coins find the attention of its curator Dr. V.C. Ohri. Now the two famous museum of Himachal i.e. Himachal State Museum and
Bhuri Singh Museum Chamba have good collection of antique coins.
The earliest 87 Punch marked coins out of which 25 coins are preserved in Bhuri Singh Museum Chamba and 12 are kept is state Museum
Shimla found from Arki.

21 coins from Appollodotus have been found in Tappa Mewa village in Hamirpur. While 31 coins were found from Jwalamukhi in Kangra.

Some Indo Greek coins have been found from Lachori and Sarol village in Chamba distt.
These coins show the influence of Greeco-Bacterian penetration in Chamba and Hamirpur.
ii.
A large number of inscriptions like copper plates and other things have been preserved in the different museums. The Nirmand copper
plates of 7th century A.D. issued by Mahasamanta Maharaja Samurdrasena are an important historical document. Besides this many
inscriptions are found from Pathpur and Kanikara in Kangra, Soopur hillock cave inscription in Hatkoti (Shimla) and Salanu near Manglore
in Mandi.
In addition many stone inscriptions are also found. Those inscriptions are mainly written in Sharda and Tankri Script.
2. Literary Resources:-

Persian Sources
1. Tarikh-i-yamini
Or
Kitab-ul-Yamini (1620 A.D.)
2. Habibus siyur (by Khawand
Mir 1523 A.D.)

Khalsa Litrature
1. The Guru
Grantha Sahib
2. Gur Sobha
3. Gur Bilas
An account of 16th
19th century.

Sanskrit Litrature
The Vedas

Travelogues
1. Hieu Tsang
(630 A.D.)
2. William Finch
3. Thomas
Coryat

Vamashvalis
(Genealogicals)

HISTORY OF HIMACHAL

The history of Himachal Pradesh can be broadly divided in two categories:-

i.

Jalandhra Circle

ii.

Shimla Hills State

The Chamba finds mention in both states, owing to its being divided by the river Ravi.
There are strong evidences of existence of pre-historic man the Himalayan region. It is believed that the first evidence of existence of human
beings (about two million years ago) were found on Himachal foothills on the areas of Sirsa-Satluj valleys of Nalagarh- Bilaspur, Markanda
Valley of Sirmour and Bangang- Beas Valley of Kangra districts.
We have some certain evidence of impact of Indus valley civilization on ancient Himachal. The pre historic culture came to Himachal from South and
settled down in southern and central parts of the state. This is represented today by Koli, Hali, Doms and Channals etc. and their language is called as
Kolarian. Kinnour and Lahaul-Spiti are their primary concentration. The indo-Gangeti plains in the pre- historic times were inhabited by ProtoAustraloids or called Mundas. When the people of Indus valley civilization spread in this area, they pushed Kolarain people to the interior Himalayas.
According to Rigveda:
The earliest inhabitants of Himachal were:-

Dasas

Nishadas

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1.

The Kolis, also known as Mundas were to be supposed as the earliest and original migrants to Himachal Hills. Their powerful King was
Shambra who had ninety nine strong forts in the hills between Yamuna and Beas rivers.
Mangloids:- The mangoloids were to be supposed as the second race to enter into Himachal in around 3rd century B.C. These people are also
mentioned as Bhotas or Kirtas in ancient Indian literature.
Aryans or Khasas:- The Aryans were to be considered as the third race to enter the Himalayan range. They came to India from North from
the area near about the Caspicm Sea in middle Asia. Aryans leave a deep impact not even in the history of Himachal but in all north India.
Their language was closely aligned with Sanskrit is known today as Pahari. They organized themselves in small political units or villages and
called themselves as Khasas or Mavanas literally means Strong men. The non observance of Sanskritic rules by these people had made
them MLECHACHAS and barbarian in their behavior. Now in the north Himalayan region were mainly two tribes:

2.
3.

Aryans/ Khas Or Mavans

Dasyus (dark skinned people) (non- Aryans)

As the Aryans were superior warriors they emerged as the powerful race in the Himalayan region and organized themselves in various Janpadas or
Clans. A clear description of the war between Aryans and powerful King of Dasyu has been mentions in Rigveda. At the end Aryans were the winners
and according to Mahabharta they organized themselves in the four famous Janpadas:-

The Audumbaras
1.

2.

3.
4.

Trigarta

Kuluta

The Kulindas

The Audumbaras:- According to Mahabharta , Audambaras were the descendants of sage Vishwamitra who founded the Gotra of the
Kaushika group. Their coins have been found from Kangra, Jwalamukhi, Pathanlot, Gurdaspur and Hoshiarpur region.
Audumbars are referred to as Shilvas in Vriti a famous book written by Buddhist scholar Chandragomin in 5th century A.D. The mention
of Audumbaras has also been made in Sataptha Brahamana a work of 8th century B.C.
The coins of Audumbaras were inscribed in Brahmi and Kharoshthi script which clearly depict that they were Shaivite (followers of Lord
Shiva) in fait. Though the study of coins we can conclude that these coins date back 1st century B.C. and Audumbaras had trade with Taxila
and Gangetic valley. The numismatics shows that in the later phase Audumbaras asserted their independence and formed separate state in
2nd century B.C. called as Mitra.
Trigrta :- According to epics it is believed that Trigrta (modern Kangra) came into existence sometime around 8 th century B.C. It was
founded by Sushrma Chandra, an ally of the kauravas and attacked Virta the king of Matasya (modern Kalsi of Dehradun district in
Uttrakhand . The original habitat of Sushamas family is said to have at Multan.
Kuluta (Modern Kullu area:- The area located in upper Beas valley called as Kuluta Desh in the Rampura, the Mahabharta and the Vishnu
purana Naggar was considered as the ancient capital of Kuluta.
The Kulindas or the Kunindas:- The name of the kunindas or Kinnour on the Satluj and Sirmour on the Giri river. It is mentioned in the
Mahabhata that the Kulinda people who lived in the area lying between the rivers Beas, Satluj and Yamuna i.e. Sirmour and Shimla hills and
between Ambala and Saharanpur in plains.

HILL STATE AND CENTEAL AUTHORITY

Since the ancient times Himachal was a congregation of numerous hilly states and provinces. The period from 8 th century A.D. was the
turbulent period in the history of Himachal. During this period many principles were formed and monitored by various Rajput kings. These were
formed and mentioned by various Rajput Kings. There were many ups and downs of history in Himachal between 11th century to 18th century till the
end of British Empire.

TURKISH INVANTION OF KANGRA

The Turks were brave, energetic and enthusiastic and barbaric people who poured into India from beyond Afghan Hills.
First attack on Kangra by Subuktgin (986-987 A.D.):- Subuktgin (977-97 A.D.) was emperor of Ghazni. He attacked Indian ruler Raj Jai Pal of
Shahi Dynasty. Jai Pals Kingdom was from Sarhind to Lamghan (Jalalabad). The first invasion of Subuktgin was nothing but a failure due to
the obscure climatic conditions esp. snow thunderstorm.
Second Attack:- in the second attack Raja Jaipal was defected badly and a plaaayed a lot of amount to Subuktgin in 991 A.D.
Mehmood of Ghazni:- He was the son of Subuktgin who died in 997 A.D. and invaded india in 1001 A.D. first time.
In his fourth expedition (1009 A.D.), he attacked the Punjab hills states and seized the Nagarkot Fort in Kangra. The fort of Nagakot remained
under the possession of Mahmud till 1043 A.D.
There is one reference by Khwaja- Masud-Bin-Sad-Bin-Salman that the Kangra Frot recaptured by Abdul Rashid in 1051-52 but was
recaptured by Katoch rulers in 1060 A.D.

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FAMOUS MAUNTAINS OF HIMACHAL

Sr. No.

MOUNTIANS

ALTITUDE ( from mean sea level in meters)

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.

Shilla
Shipki
Malkila
Kinner Kailash
Shangrila
Indrasan
Deo-Tibba
Solang
Pir Panjal
Hanuman Tibba
Kailash
Paragla
Shrikhand
Tansar
Murangla
Shringla
Inderakila
Pir Parbati
Patalsu
Gauri Devi Tibba
Nar Singh Tibba
Saach
Cholang

7025
6608
6520
6500
6230
6220
6001
5975
5972
5860
5660
5579
5182
5080
5060
4999
4940
4800
4470
4030
3730
3540
3270

LOCATION
Kinnour
Kinnour
Lahual & Spiti
Kinnour
Lahual & Spiti
Kullu-Manali
Kullu
Kullu
Chamba
Kullu Kangra
Bharmour (Chamba)
Kullu
Kullu
Chamba
Lahual & Spiti
Kullu
Kullu
Kullu
Kullu
Chamba
Chamba
Kullu
Dhauladhar (Kangra)

FAMOUS PASSES IN HIMACHAL

PASS

ALTITUDE (from mean sea level in meters)

LOCATION

Pin Parvati

5319

Kullu-spiti

Duggi jot

5060

Bharmour

Sara Umga Pass

5010

Kullu-spiti

Kugti Pass

4961

Lahual-Bharmour

Chobia Pass

4934

Pangidhar-Lahual-Bharmour

Bara Lachala

4890

Pangidhar-Lahual-Bharmour

Manali Pass

4880

Manali-Kangra

Animal Pass

4880

Kullu

Nikada Pass

4750

Kangra-Bharmour

Kalichho Pass

4729

Lahaul-Bharmour

Darati Pass

4720

Chamba-Pangi

Telong Pass

4600

Kangra-Chamba

Tamshar Pass

4572

Kangra-Bara Bhangal (Dhauladhar)

Shi-Jot

4530

Kullu

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Kunjum Pass

4520

Lahaul-Spiti

Ship-ki-la

4500

Lahaul-Spiti

Ranchha Pass

4400

Lahaul-Spiti

Sach Pass

4395

Chamba-Pangi

Tori Pass

4360

Kangra-Chamba

Indrahar Pass

4320

Kangra-Bhamour

Shingur Pass

4310

Kangra-Bharmour

Hamta jot Pass

4270

Pir-Panjal-Kullu-Spiti

Behriyang Pass

4140

Kullu-Kangra

Rohtang Pass

3978

Kullu-Lahaul

Baru Pass

3870

Kangra-Chamba

Garhu Jot

3730

Kullu

Baleni Jot

3730

Kangra-Chamba

Jalus ki Jot

3450

Kangra-Chamba

Rasaul Jot

3230

Kullu

A BRIEF TIME LINE AND ITS IMPACT ON HIMACHAL

ALEXANDERS INVASION ON INDIA AND ITS IMPACT ON HIMACHAL:- Alexander the great invaded India in 326 B.C. He was the son of
Philip of Macedonia. In history we have a description of battle between the Alexander and Porus. Alexander invaded India up to the
bank of Beas River. As the symbol of his victory he established 12 stone inscriptions on the bank of Beas River which are no more now.

MAURYAN EMPIRE AND

HIMACHAL

Chandragupta Maurya founded mauryan empire in 320 B.C. with the help of Kautilya(Chanakya or vishnugupta). He overthrew the
Nanda dynasty. According to Mudrarakshasa of Vishakhadutta. The Kiratas and the Khasas supported the army of Chandragupra
Maurya. Later on, Chandragupta Maurya tried to capture the Hill provinces but the king of Kuluta along with his five ally strongly
opposed him. During the Maurya Empire Kulinda was called as Shimaurya because it was located on the top of empire which with the
passage of time was known with the name of Sirmour. According to Hieun-Tsang, Ashoka built the pillars of Kalath in Kullu and Chaintru
in Kangra.
In the post-Maurya period Shunga Dynasty was not able to hold hill states any more under their control. It wass the hightime when the
invading tribe of Shakas started attacking India in the first century B.C. After Shakas the Hill states surrendered before the Kanishaka
the ambitious ruler of the Kushanas. Approximately 40 coins of Kushanas are found on Kalka-Kasauli road. A coin of Kanashika has been
found from Kanihara of Kangra.
In the later period we have no much description of the Gupta Dynasty in Himalayan Region. But after the Guptas, the Hunas attacked
India. Tomarmaan and Mihirkul were their famous rulers. Gujjar and Gaddis considerd themselves as the decendants of Hunas.

HIEUN-TSANGS DESCRIPTION OF HILL STATES AND SOME OTHER REMARKS

The Chinese pilgrim Hieun-Tsang visited India during 630-644 A.D. During his travel Harshwardhana (606-673 A.D.) of Wardhana
Dynasty was the emperor. In 635 A.D. Hieun_tsang visited Jalandhara the early of Trigarta. He lived in Jalandhara in 635 and 640 A.D.
After Jalandhara he visited Kullu, Lahual and Sirmour. Rajtarangini of Kalhan gives the brief description of battle between Yasgwardhana
and Lalitaditya the rular of Kashmir.

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MEDIAVAL HISTORY OF HIMACHAL

The medieval period i.e. 1000 A.D. onwards was a landmark of domination of the Mohammadans. The Tughlaques and the Mughals.
Indian history has written with the many historical upheavals. Himachal was not also unaware of these invasions and expeditions.

MAHMUD OF GHAZNI
He came to India from Afganistan via Hindukush mountain and attacked India 17 times. He attacked the Nagarkot of Kangra in 1009 in
order to defeat Anandpala. They occupied Kangra up to 1043 A.D. which was later on occupied by the Manipal a king Tomar dynasty of
Delhi.

TUGHLAQ EMPIRE IN HIMACHAL

After Mahmud of Gazni no other ruler gave special attention to hill state expects Muhmmad-bin-Tughlaq who attack Nagarkot in 1337
in order to defeat Prithvichand.
FIROZSHAH TUGHLAQ IN HIMACHAL (1351-1388):- In order to reach to Rupchanda the riler nof Kangra firozshah Tughlaq
attacked Nagarkot in 1361. A brief description of Kangra expedition has been given in the Tarikh-i-Firozshahi. This battle ended
up with a trady Rupchandas surrended . After the trady , Firozshah Tughlaq visited Jwalamukhi and he took 1300 sanskrit
books also with him in order to translate them in Persian language. These books were translated in Presian language by Ajjudin
Khalidkhani and were named as Dalai-i-Firozshahi. Rupchanda died in 1375 and his son Sagarchanda became the ruler. During
his region in 1389, Nasiruddin the elder son of Firozshah took shelter in Kangra.

THE INVASION OF TAIMURLANG (1398) A.D.

Taimulang was the leader of Mangole Tribe and invaded India in 1398 A.D. during his expedition Meghachanda was the ruler of
Kangra. Taimurlang invaded Shivalik Hills in 1399 A.D. During Taimurs expedition Alamchand was the ruler of Handur (modern
Nalaghar), who helped him in his invasions so Taimur did not attack his province. Taimur also attacked Dhameri (modern Nurpur of
Kangra) and Sirmour. In Sirmour he was opposed strongly by Ratan Singh.

THE MUGHAL EMPIRE AND ITS IMPACT ON HILLY

STATES
The Mughal Empire was established
in 1526 A.D. when Babur defeated Ibrahim Lodhi in the first battle of Panipat. With the end of
Lodhi Dynasty a new era started in the Indian history with the rise of Mughals . Besides all North India Himachal was not also unaffected
with their influence. Directly or indirectly various Mughal emperors marched towards the Himalayan region.
1. BABUR (1526-1530 A.D.):- Babur established his toll or Chowki at Malaut in Kangra in 1525.
HUMAYUN(1530-1540 A.D.)=>Sher Shah Suri (1540-45)
2. AKBAR(1556-1540 A.D.):- Akbar was the son of Humayun and grandson of Babur. He ascended to throne in at the 13 years on
14th February, 1556. He sent his army to Nurpur in 1556 order to arrest sikandershah. Sikandarshah was an ally of Bkaktmal
the king of Nurpur. Akbar used to arrest the children and Relatives of the rulers of Hill states in order to establish his control
over hilly kings. He also arrested Jaicahnd the ruler of Kangra. Because Jaichand against Akbar with his companion Takhtmal
the ruler of Nurpur. Pratap Singh Varman of Chamba and Dharam Prakash of Sirmour were the contemporary of Akbar.
3. Jahangir (1605-1627 A.D.):- He ascended to throne in 1605. (his childhood mane was Salim). Jahangir sent Surajmal (ruler of
Dhameri or nurpur) and Sheks Farid Murtza Khan to annex Kangra in 1615. But it was failed due to death of Murtza Khan.
Again he sent Surajmal and Shah Kuli Khan but due to their own connroversy Surajmal revolted against the Mughals. Later
Surajmal was attacked by Raja Rai Vikramjit and Abdul Azeej two leaders of Jahangir annexed Kangra and it was under the
control of Mughals till 1783 A.D.
Jahangir renamed Dhameri as Nurpur on the name of his wife Nurjahan. He build a msque in Kangra fort and the name of gate
of fort was kept as Jahangiri Darwaza.
During the region of Jahangiri the Battle of Dhalog was fought between the two rulers of Chamba named Janardhan and
Jagat Singh.

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4.
5.

Buddhi Prakash (1605-1615) the ruler of Sirmour was contemporary of Jahangir.

Nawab Ali Khan was the first Mughal Janitor of Kangra Fort.
Shah-i-Jahan(1628-1658 A.D.):- Mandha Prakash of Sirmour was contemporary od Shah Jahan.
Aurangzeb (1659-1707):- he was the contemporary of Subhag Prakash a ruler of Sirmour. Auranzeb orderd Chatar Singh (the
ruler of Chamba) to destroy all the Hindu temples from Chamba in 1678 but Chatar Singh denied the command and defeated
Mughal Commander Mirza Riya Beg with the help of rulers of Guler, Basauli andjammu. He recaptured his own areas.

DECAY OF MUGHALS
After the death of Mughal empror Aurangzeb in 1707 A.D. the Mughal empire started falling backward . in between Ahmasshah
Durrani attacked Punjab 10 times from 1748-1788 A.D. Ghamanchanda availed the opportunity and recaptured Kangraand Doab.
Nawab Saif Ali Khan was the Mughal Janitor of the Kangra Fort.

MODERN HISTORY OF HIMACHAL

Like ancient and medieval history the modern era i.e. among 18th century onwards was a period of struggle various clans, provinces,
tribes and rulers. But the Sikhs, Gurkhas and Britishers. A Brief description of various struggles in given below:-

SIKHS
Sikkhism has a deep relation with the hill provinces since the origin of Sikh religion. Guru Nanak Dev Ji was supposed to be visited to
Kangra, Jawalamukhi, Kullu, Sirmour and Lahual Spiti.* The 5th Sikh Prophet Guru Arjun Dev Ji sent Bhai Kalyan to hill states to collect
funds (Chanda) in order to built Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple)
The 9th Sikh Prophjet Guru Teg Bahadur Ji Established Makhowal village in Kahlur (Bilaspur) today known as Anandpur Sahib.
Guru Govind Singh:- Guru Govind Singh lived in Paunta Sahib for five years and compiled Dashama Grantha. He fought
the Batle of Bhangani with Bhimchand the ruler of Kahlur and Fatehshah of Garwal.
Harichand the ruler of Handur (modern NalagSarh) was killed with the arrow of Guru Govind Singh.
He defeated Mughals in Nadaun (Hamirpur).
On 13th April 1699 on the Baishakhi day Guru Govind Singh established Khalsa Panth in Makhowal (Annandpur Sahib) with
80,000 soldier. He died in 1708 in Nanded(Maharashtra).
After the death of Banda Bahadur Sikhs were divided in 12 Misals . Suker Chakia was the most powerful and famous missal
(Batalion) under the leadership of Maharaja Ranjeet Singh.

SIKH-GURKHA WARS
Jassa Singh Ramgarhia was the fisrt sikh to attack Kangra Hills Ghamanchand defeated Jassa Singh. After the death the
GhamandChanda, Sansarchanda-II capruted the Kangra fort form Mughals in 1782 with the help of Jai Singh Kanhaiya.
Gurkha lead Amar Singh Thapa captured the 30 various provinces of Kumayun, Garhwal, Sirmour and Shimla.
In 1806 he defeated Sansarchanda at Mahalmoriyon(Hamirpur) , Sansarchanda took shelter in Kangra Fort for nexy four years.
In 1809 with interference of Maharaja Ranjeet Singh there was a treaty of Jawalamukhi between them.

An Acount of Maharaja Ranjeet Singh

He was the head of Suker Chakia Misal. He attacked Amar singh Thapa on the request of Sansarchanda. With the treaty of
Jawalamukhi he got 66 villages and Kngra Fort in return or as gift from Sansarchanda.
In 1809 Desa Singh Majithia was appointed as Nazim (Janitor) of Kangra fort.
Ranjeet Singh annexed Hamirpur (Guler) in 1813, Datarpurin 1818 and Kutlehar in 1825.

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BRITISH-GURKHA STRUGGLE AND

WARS
The ambitious Gurkha leader Amar Singh Thapa
was rising as on powerful leader. He was attacking and capturing hill states
continuously. In 1806 he defeated SansarChand . he also overthrow Rana Jagat Singh, the ruler of Arki in 1809. On the same time
Ranjaur Singh the son of Amar Singh Thapa was invading Sirmour, Kumaun and Garhwal and these provinces were captured by him. Till
1810 Gurkhas captured Bushahar, Handur, Arki, Sirmour,Jubbal and Pandra areas. In 1813 Amar Singh Thapa was willing to capture the
6 villages of Sirhind. These areas were claimed by British empire and was strongly opposed by Ochter LOny. As the Gurkhas were
continuously occupying these area David Ochterlony officially declared a war against Gurkhas on 1 st Nov, 1814.
On 16th Jan,1815 Ochterlony marched towards Arki with his forces. After analyzing the situation Amar Singh Thapa moved to
Malaun and lost the important ports such as Ramgargh and Taragarh fort. On 12 th March 1815 Britishers occupied Chaupal and Jubbal
with the help of Dangi Wazir and Primu. Later on Rawingarh fort was occupied by the Britishers which was under the control of
Ranjaur Singh Thapa. Gurkhas were defeated by Britishers with the help of combined forces of Rampur, Kotgarh,Bushahar and Kullu at
Saran Tibba. At the end Amar Singh Thapa was defeated by Britishers and was sent back to Nepal with the Treaty of Sugauli or
Sagawoli on 28th Nov,1815.

IMPORTANT HISTORICAL DATES IN THE HISTORY OF HIMACHAL

550 A.D. => Meru Varman founded Chamba state.
630 A.D.=>Battle of Bilaspur and Handur
900 A.D.=> Veer Chand Chandel established Kehlur
920 A.D.=> Sahil Varma fonded Chamba city
765 A.D.=> Virsen founded Suket
1009A.D.=> Mahmud of Gazni invaded Kangra and Jwalamukhi
1100 A.D.=> Nalagarh was founded bu ajaycahnd
1154A.D.=> Abhoj Deo founded Kunihar.
1170 A.D.=> Purav Chand founded Jaswan.
1195 A.D.=> Sirmour province was founded by Shubhansh Prakash.
1300 A.D.=> Mandi state was founded by Shubhash Prakash.
1300 A.D.=> Mndi state was founded Bansena.
1365 A.D.=> Firozshah Tughlaq invaded Kangra and Jwalamukhi.
1399 A.D.=> Invasions of Taimur Lamg in Hill states.
1405 A.D.=> Harichand establish Guler province.
1450 A.D.=> Sibba was founded by Shivram Chand.
1526 A.D.=> Ajber Sen was established Mandi Town.
1550 A.D.=> Datapur was founded by Datarchand.
1620 A.D.=> Jahangir annexed Kangra.
1621 A.D.=> Karam Prakash founded Nahan City.
1654 A.D.=> Deepchand established Bilaspur Town.
1667 A.D.=> Jaichand founded Theog.
1686 A.D.=> Battle of Bhangani (Sahib Guru GOvind Singh won this battle).
1700 A.D.=> Hamirpur was founded by Hamirchand.
1712 A.D.=> Gurud Sen founded Sundernagar Town.
1748 A.D.=> Sujanpur Teehra was established by Abhay Chand.
1783 A.D.=> Sansarchand captured Kangra fort.
1786 A.D.=> The battle of Nerti and Shahpur.
1809 A.D.=> Treaty of Jwalamukhi between Maharaja Ranjeet Singh and Sansar Cahdn.
1815 A.D.=> Aglo-Gurkhawar, Amar Singh Thapa was defeated.
1822 A.D.=> Major Canady founded Shimla Town.
1854 A.D.=> Lord Dalhousie founded Dalhousie of Chamba.
1857 A.D.=>Jutogh revolt by Bhimchand of Nasiri Batalion.

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1895 A.D.=> Bhatiyal revolt by Bhimchand of Nasiri Batalain.

1895 A.D.=> Bhatiyal revolt in Chamba.
1905 A.D.=> Baghal peasant revolt.
1906 A.D.=> Dodra-Kawar revolt.
1909 A.D.=> The revolt of Mandi people against Jivanchand.
1921 A.D.=> Mahatma Gandhi visisted Shimla first time.
1930 A.D.=> Dandra movement (against the ruler of Bilaspur).
1938 A.D.=> Established of Shimla hHill states and Himalayan provinces (Prajamandal).
1939 (16th July) A.D.=>Dhami Tragedy.
1942 A.D.=> Pojhauta movement in Sirmour (under Vaidhya Sarat Singh).
26th Jan, 1948 A.D.=> Foundation of Himachal.
18th Feb, 1948 A.D.=> Himachal was declared as a state.
1951 A.D.=> Himachal was given as the Part-C states.
1st March 1952 A.D.=> Deputy Governor was appointed in place of Chief Commissioner.
24th March 1952 A.D.=> First legislative and government was found.
1st July 1954 A.D.=> Bilaspur was included as 5 th district in H.P.
1st Nov, 1956 A.D.=> Himachal became Union Territory.
15th Aug, 1957 A.D.=> Regional Council was established and Thakur Karam Singh was the first Chairman.
1st May, 1960 A.D.=> Kinnour became the 6th district of Himachal.
1st July, 1963 A.D.=> Regional council was converted into Himachal legislative.
1st Nov, 1966 A.D.=>Kangra, Kullu, Shimla,Lahual and Spiti and area of Nalagarh were included in Himachal.
1970 A.D.=> Foundation of Himachal Pradesh University.
25th Jan, 1971 A.D.=> Himachal became as the 18th state of India.
1971 A.D.=> HP High Court and HPPSC were founded.
1st Sep, 1972 A.D.=> Hamirpur, Una and Solan were Three new organized district added to Himachal.
1978 A.D.=> Agriculture University at Palampur was established.
1985 A.D.=> Dr. Y.S. Parmar Horticulture University at Nauni (Solan) was established.

FOUNDATION AND FOUNDERS OF PRINCELY STATES IN HIMACHAL

Sr. No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18

Princely State
Sibba State
Dadda Sibba
Guler State
Mahlog
Trigarta
Kuthahar
Modern Kullu
Kunihar
Kehlur
Bhagat
Handur(Nalagarh)
Sirmour
Chamba
Ratesh
Jaswan
Kyonthal
Sujanpur
Ancient Kullu

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Founder
Shivram Chandar
Sibran Chand
Hari Chand
Beerchand
Susharma
Suratchand
Ratanbhadra
Abhojdev
Veerchand Chandel
Ajay Dev
Ajay Chand
Shubhansh Prakash
Meru Varman
Ram Singh
Purav Chand
Giri Sen
Ghamanchand
Bihangmanipal

Foundation Year
1450 A.D.
1550 A.D.
1405 A.D.
----------8th -5th century B.C.
--------------------1154 A.D.
900 A.D.
----------1100 A.D.
1195 A.D.
550 A.D.
----------1170 A.D.
1211 A.D.
-----------------------

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19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30

Datarpur
Saari
Nurpur
Jubbal
Mandi State
Theog
Suket
Delath
Balsan
Bhajji
Kumarsen
Darkoti

Datarchand
Mulchand
Jhetpal
Karan Chand
Banasen
Jaichand
Veersen
Prithvi Singh
Alok Singh
King Charu
Kirat Chand
Durga Singh

1550 A.D.
-----------1000 A.D.
-----------1300 A.D.
1667 A.D.
1288 A.D.
-----------12th century A.D.
-----------11th century A.D.
------------

HISTORICAL TOWNS; FOUNDER AND FOUNDATION

Sr. No.

Town/City

District

Foundation year

Founder

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18

Bilaspur
Hamirpur
Sujanpur
Dagshai
Sapatu
Kasauli
Bijapur
Alampur
Sundernagar
Jubbal
Rampur
Mandi
Nahan
Shimla
Chamba
Dalhousie
Kullu
Kangra

Bilaspur
Hamirpur
Hamirpur
Solan
Solan
Solan
Kangra
Kangra
Mandi
Shimla
Shimla
Mandi
Sirmour
Shimla
Chamba
Chamba
Kullu
Kangra

1654 A.D.
1700 A.D.
1748 A.D.
19th century A.D.
1816 A.D.
1841 A.D.
-----------1697 A.D.
1712 A.D.
16th century A.D.
----------1526 A.D.
1621 A.D.
1822 A.D.
920 A.D.
1854 A.D.
1500 B.C.
------------

Deepchand
Hamirchand
Abhaychand
Britishers
Britishers
Britishers
Vijay ram Chand
Alamchand
Garudsen
Rana Teg Chand
Raja Ram Singh
Ajber Sen
Karamprakash
Major Kennedy
Sahil Varman
Lord Dalhousie
Vihangmani Pal
susharmachand

ANCIENT NAMES OF TOWNS IN HIMACHAL

Sr.No.

Modern Name

Ancient Name

District

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11

Sundernagar
Vaned
Baijnath
Kirgram
Bilaspur (Town)
Kehlur/Vyaspur
Sarahan
Shonitpur
Una
Jaswan
Nurpur
Dhameri
Bharmour
Brahampur
IMPORTANT HYDAL PROJECT IN HIMACHAL
Kangra(town)
Tirgarta/Nagarkot
Kullu
Kuluta
Nalagarh
Handur
Kinnour
Chini

Mandi
Kangra
Bilaspur
Shimla
Una
Kangra
Chamba
Kangra
Kullu
Solan
kinnour

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Himachal Pradesh is an important state from the hydro electric generation point of view. There are three types of hydal projects in the state:1. State govt undertaking
2. State-center undertaking
3. Private sector undertaking
The total estimated hydro electric generation capacity is approximately 23000 MW. The important Hydal Projects are as given below:-

S.No
.

Hydro Project

River

Capacity

District

Remarks

1
2
3

Bhakra
Kol Dam
Beraseul

1325MW
800MW
180 MW

Bilaspur
Bilaspur
Chamba

Built by BBMB in 1963A.D.(Height-226 mtrs)

Built by NTPC in association with Russia
Built by NHPC in 1981

4
5
6
7
8
9

Bharmour Project
Budhil Project
Chamera-I
Chamera-II
Chamera-III (Hibra)
Hadsar Project
Holi Project

Satluj
Satluj
Beraseul
khadd(Ravi)
Ravi
Bhudil (Ravi)
Ravi
Ravi
Ravi
Ravi
Ravi

45MW
70MW
540MW
300MW
260MW
60MW
3MW

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Built by NHPC in 1994

Built by NHPC in 2004
Built by NHPC in 2012
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

10
11
12
13
14

Manchetri project
Raoli
Baner project
Binwa Project
Gaj project

100MW
500MW
12MV
6MW
10.25MW

15
16
17

Pong Dam
Baspa Project
Bhabha

Ravi
Chenab
Baner Khadd
Binwa Khadd
Gaj and Lyon
Khadd
Beas
Baspa
Bhabha Khadd

Chamba
Chamba
Chamba
Chamba
Chamba
Chamba
Bharmour
(Chamba)
Chamba
Chamba
Kangra
Kangra
Kangra

396MW
300MW
120 MW

Kangra
Kinnour
Kinnour

Built by BBMB
Baspa is a tributary of Satluj
Built in 1989 also called as Sanjay Gandhi Jal
Vidydut Priyojna. This was the 1st underground
hydal project in Asia

18
19
20
21

Change yang thang

Jangi thopan
Ksang project
Kadchham Wangtu

Satluj
Satluj
Ksang Khadd
Saltuj

140MW
960MW
243MW
1000MW

Kinnour
Kinnour
Kinnour
Kinnour

22
23
24

Satluj
Satluj
Satluj

1020MW
1.5MW
402MW

Kinnour
Kinnour
Kinnour

25
26
27
28
29

Khab project
Rukti Project
Shong Tong
Kadchham
Tidong
Alyan Duhangan
Malana-I
Malana-II
Parbati

Satluj
Beas
Malana khadd
Malana khadd
Beas

100MW
192MW
86MW
100MW
2051MW

Kinnour
Kullu
Kullu
Kullu
Kullu

30
31
32
33

Sainj
Bassi Project
Dehar Project
Gumma

100 MW
60MW
990MW
3MW

Kullu
Mandi
Mandi
Mandi

34
35
36
37

Patkari Project
Shanan
Uhal-II
Uhal-III

Sainj
Beas
Dehar
Gumma
Khadd
Patkari
Rina
Beas
Beas

16MW
110MW
70MW
100MW

Mandi
Mandi
Mandi
Mandi

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---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------At Baijnath
---------------------

Ksang is a tributary of Satluj

Built by JP industries Pvt. Ltd. This is the greatest
hydal project of private sector in Himachal.

On the tributary of Beas

Malana is tributary of Beas
The largest hydal project of HP built by NHPC. This
project has the partnership of five states
HP,Rajsthan,Delhi,Gujrat and Hariyana. The share of
Himachal is 15%. The largest share is of Rajsthan.
Built by NHPC on Sainj tributary of Beas.
At Jogindernagar on the right bank of Beas

On the tributary of Beas.

Built by Punjab govt. in 1932 on Uhal khadd.
Uhal is a tributary of Beas

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38
39

Andhra
Andhra

16.95MW
46MW

Shimla
Shimla

Tributary of Pabbar at Chirgaon in Shimla

40

Andhra
Chirgaon Majhgaon
Project
Dhamuradi Sunda

Pabbar

70MW

Shimla

41
42
43
44
45
46
47

Dhanvi
Rampur project
Swar Kuddu
Giri Project
Renuka Project
Yamuna project
Rong Tong Project

22.5MW
412MW
111MW
60MW
40MW
131.5MW
2MW

Shimla
Shimla
Shimla
Sirmour
Sirmour
Sirmour
Lahual Spiti

48

Thirot Project

Dhanvi Khadd
Satluj
Pabbar
Giri
Giri-Bata
Yamuna
Rong Tong
Nala
Thirot Nala

This is the private sector project in association with

Sweedish govt.
At Jeori on the Dhanvi Khadd , tributary of Satluj.
Built and run by SJVNL.
Built at Swar Kuddu the tributary of Pabbar
It was built in 1966. The 1st project built by HP Govt.
Also called as Parshuram Sagar bandh
Built in association with Uttrakhand Govt.

4.5MW

Lahual Spiti

Thirot is a tributary of Chenab

FAMOUS INDUSTRIAL PALNTS IN HIMACHAL

Cement industries:1. ACC:- ACC cement plant was established in 1984 at Barmana of district Bilaspur.
2. AMBUJA:- Ambuja cement plant was established in 1995 at Darlaghat of Solan district.
3. CCI:-established in 1980 at Rajban of Paonta Sahib of district Sirmour. This was the first cement plant in Himachal. This plant is maintained
and operated by Cement Corporation of India.
Biroja Factories:1. In Nahan of district Sirmour
2. Raghunathpura of district Bilaspur.
Fertilizer Plants:-Fertilizer plants are located at Majhauli of Solan district.
Brewery and distillery:1. Mohan Makan in Solan
2. Mehatpur in Una
The greatest Poultry Farm of Himachal is at Pijehara in Solan. Besides this thermometer and microscope are made in Paonta Sahib of Sirmour
District.
Himachal Pradesh General industries corporation Ltd. Was established in 1988 which resides the control over Mehatpur (Una) ,Parwanoo
(Solan), Cotton Mill of Nurpur Kangra and Mining works in Bilaspur.
HPMC (Himachal Pradesh produce marketing and processing corporation Ltd.) was established in 1974.
HP state Handloom and Handicraft weavers apex co-operative society ltd. was established in 1984.
HPSEDC (HP state electronics development Co-operation) limited was established in 1984.
Mines and Minerals in Himachal Pradesh:1. Salt mines: - In Gumma and Darang of Mandi.
2. Natural Gas:- Jwalamukhi (Kangra), Swarghat (Bilaspur), Ram shahar (Solan)

3.

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.

ADMINISTRATION
STRUCTURE
OF HIMACHAL PRADESH
Lime Stone and Jipsam:- AND
Kuthar,ADMINISTRATIVE
Kodga, Bharli and Kamrou
of district Sirmour.
Municipal corporation: 1 (Shimla)
Municipal Councils
Divisions: 3 (Mandi, Shimla & Kangra)
Sub divisions: 60
Development Blocks: 78
Tehsils: 85
Sub Tehsils: 85
Panchayats: 3243
Total Villages:20118 (Revenued) ; 27495 (Settled)

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10. District and District Councils: 12

3 Divisions of HP
1. Shimla: Shimla, Splan, Sirmour &Kinnour (4 Distt.)
2. Mandi: Mandi, Hamirpur, Kullu, Bilaspur and Lahaul & Spiti (5Distt.)
3. Kangra: Kangra, Chamba & Una (3 Distt.)
LEGISTLATURE OF HIMACHAL
1. Governor :=> Himachal was formed as a complete state on 25th January 1971.
=>S.Chakarvarti was the first Governor of H.P.
=> Sheela Kaul was the first women governor of Hp.
=> Surender Nath was the first governor who died during his tenure (on 9th July 1994 in an Air Crash).
=> Acharya Dev Brat is the governor of HP.
2. Chief Minister: Dr. Y.S. Parmar (1952-56, 63-67,67-72,72-77) was the first C.M. of HP.
Article 356 (President Rule) had been imposed on HP two times:1. 1997 (Ram Lal Thakur was C.M.)
2. 1992 (Shanta Kumar was C.M.)
Legislature (Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha and State Legislature)
1. Lok Sabha: 1. Mandi
2. Kangra
3. Hamirpur
4. Shimla
(In 1952 three elected members were sent to Parliament for the first time).
(First woman MP-Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur- Mandi)
(First Independent MP- Raja Anand Chand)
2. Rajya Sabhsa: 1. Shimla
2. Mandi
3. Kangra
* Chiranji Lal verma was the fisrt MP of Rajya Sabha from HP.
* Leela Devi was first woman MP of Rajya Sabha from HP. (1956-62)
* Roshan lal (1970-88) was the record time member of RS fromHP.
3. State legislature:
Total seats: 68
(Highest:L Kangra-15)
(Lowest: Lahual & Spiti, Kinnour-1 seat each)
Reseved: 20
17-schedule caste
3 ST
Largest (Area wise): Shimla
Smallest (Area Wise): Lahual &Spiti)
* Hikkim (L&S) (15000 ft) is the Asias Highest altitudinal Polling Booth.

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Police & Security

Police training centers:- 1. Daroh (Kangra) (1994 onwards)
2. Junga (Shimla)
S.R Chaudhary was the fisrt IGP of HP.
HP state Forensic Lab:- Junga ( established in 1988)
(B.R. Sharma was the first director)
Dharmashala

1.

2.

3.

4.
5.

Mandi

HPPSC, HPSSSB. HIPA, HPAT and

LOKAYUKTA
HPPSC: Established- 1971
Headquater-> Nigam Vihar
First Chairman: Lt. Gen.K.S. Katoch.
HIPA:- Establishment:- 1st January 1974
Headquarter: Fair Lounge Shimla (Built by R. Dikson)
First Chairman: V.K. Sharma.
HP Lokayukta: Established in June 1983
Justice T.V.R. Tatachari was first Lokayukta of HP
(Tenure: 5 years)
HPAT:- Established:- 1st January 1986
First Chairman: Hira Singh Thakur
HPSSSB:- Established: October 1998
HQ: Hamirpur
First chairman K.C. Malhotra.
Speakers of State Legislative:=> Jaiwant Ram (152-56) was the first speaker.
=> Thakur Sen Negi was the record three times (1979-82, 1982-84, 1990-93) Speaker.
=> Vidya Stocks was the first lady legislative speaker of HP.
Deputy Speaker:- Krishan Chand was the first deputy speaker .
Chief Secretary:- K.L.Mehta was the first chief secretary.
HP Hight Court:- Established on 25th Feb 1971.
JUDICIARY
Mirza Hamidullah Beg was the first chief Justice.
-> Mehar Chand Mahajan is the only person from HP who became the CJI.
* Mrs. Leela Seth was the first women chief justice of Himachal and any High Court in India. (5th Aug, 1991)
* Revenue Wood was the name given to the building of High Court of HP.

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A Brief Review of Census 2011 of HP

Total population: 68, 56,509=> Urban= 6, 88,704 10.04% Shimla has highest Urban population=20, 15, 00
Rural= 61, 67,80589.96% (24.77%)
Kangra has highest rural population 14, 20,864 (94.27%)
Males: 34, 73,893
Females: 33, 82,617
* There is a decrease of contribution of Himachals population in that of Indias.
2001- It was 0.59% to that of India.
2011:- It is 0.57% to that of India.
Highest population: Kangra (15, 07,223) =21.98%
Least Population: - Lahual & Spiti (31,528) = 0.46%
The increase in the population of HP from 2001-2011) 12.81%
Highest increase is in Una=16.24%
Decrease is in L & S = -5.10%
Sex ratio= 974/1000
Highest sex ratio = Hamirpur=1096/1000
(1102/1000 in 2001)
Least sex ratio = Kinnour=818/1000
Highest increase in sex ratio= Lahaul & Spiti= 916/1000
(812/1000 in 2001)
Child sex ratio (0-6) = 906/1000 (896/1000 in 2001)+10
* Lahual & Spiti has not only the highest child sex ratio of HP but also it topped among 600 district of India=1013/1000.
Least sex ratio=Una=870/1000
Total child population of HP 7, 63, 86411.14% of the total population.
Population density of HP =123 person/km2
Highest population density =Hamirpur 406 preson/km2
Least population density= Lahual & Spiti= 2 person/km2
Literacy rate of HP= 83.78%
Male literacy= 90.83%
Female literacy=76.60%
Highest literacy rate= Hamirpur (89.01%)
Least literacy rate= Chamba (73.19%)
Road and Transportation in Hp
Roads

Primary roads
(Connecting one distt.
to another)

Secondary roads
(Connecting distt. towns
with distt. HQs)

Tertiary roads
(Tehsil and village
connectors)

Quaternary roads
(Bridle paths mule
pack)

Total length of roads: - In 1948= 288 kms.

Dec.2012= 34, 480km (approximately 9861 villages were connected to raods)
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* Kangra district has highest and Kinnour has lent hog roads.
* hamirpur has highest and Lahual Spiti has leat density.
* NH-21 (Manali-Leh) is the Worlds Highest Highway.
* NH-22 is the Greatest National Hightway in HP.

National Highway in HP
Till 2012 there are mainly 12 NH in Hp constituting the distance of approximately 1553 Kms.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.

01.A
20
20-A
21
21 A
22 (longest)
NH-70
72
72 (B) (707)
73 A(shortest)
88
305

Jalandhar-Pathankot-Jammu Sri Nagar

Pathankot-Chakki-Mandi
Nagrota-Ranital-Dehra-Multanpur
Chandigarh- Manali
Pinjour-Nalagarh Swarghat
Ambala-Kalka-Shimla-Wangtu
Jalandhar-Gagret-Amb-Nadaun-Hamirpur-Dharmpur-Manali
Ambala-Narayangarh-Kallaamb-Paonta-Haridwar
Paonta-Rajban-Shillai-Menus-Hatkoti
Laldhang- Batapul
Shimla-Ghaggas-Hamirpur-Ranital Kangra
Sainj-Ani-Banjar-Aut

10 kms
196.8 km
91 km
227.535 km
48.875 km
295.416 km
206.560 km
57 km
119.5 km
7.42 km
197.7 km
94.784 km

Bridges: Longest: Kulhal Bridge onYamuna connects (HP & UK)

Highest: Kandraur (Satluj) Bilaspur) build in 1964.
Tunnels: Rohtang Tunnel is the longest tunnel of HP 8.8 km. distance will be decreased about 60 km. between
Manali & Keylong.
Ralways in HP: Total length of Rail Network in HP
In 1988= 209 km
Today= 242 kms.

Joginder Nagar
Una-Nangal-Churdu track (only
Pathankot (Naarrow Gauge)
Kalka- Shimla (96) Narrow gauge-0.76
Broad gauge railway track of HP
Total length: 113 km
mtrs construction started in 1891.
Length: 16 (earlier) 33 (present)
Construction stated in 1926.
1st train on this track: 1st jan 1906.
Inaugurated in 1991 by (
First train on track: 1929
Tunnels:-103
Janeshwar Mishra the then
Tunnels: 2
Longest tunnel Barog (1143 mtrs)
Railways minister
Bridges: 993
Total Bridges ACADEMY
=869 (3% ofH.P.
totalG.K.
length
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=> Declared as world Heritage by UNESCO Gajj Khadd Bridge is the longest
Page 28
narrow gauge bridge in India.
on 7th july 2008.

Air Ways in HP
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Jubbar Hatti: In Solan distt. 26 km from Shimla. Opened on 24th May 1987.
Bhuntar: Kullu (10 kms from Kullu town)
Gaggal: (kangra) Biggest Airport in HP opened on 20th Dec.1989.
Kaza: Under construction will be Airport of Highest Altitude in HP 187 km from Keylong the distt. HQ of L & S.
Rangreek: In Spiti valley.
Helipads;- Approximately 57 Helipads are in HP.
Heli-Taxi scheme: Inagurated by PK Dhumal on 28th January 2011.

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