State in northwestern India
Photo: Himalayan Trails, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Himachal Pradesh (Hindi: हिमाचल प्रदेश, Sanskrit: हिमाचल प्रदेश) is a state in north India, and offers much for those looking to experience the Himalayas. While it does not claim the highest peaks in the range, there is plenty to do aside from mountaineering. Its name literally means "Abode of Snow".
Central Himachal Pradesh is a region in Himachal Pradesh, consisting of Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kullu, Mandi and Una districts.
Eastern Himachal Pradesh is a region in Himachal Pradesh, consisting of Kinnaur and Lahaul & Spiti districts. There are several valleys in the region, among which Lahaul tends to be a bit more green and fertile, while Spiti is mostly stark high desert.
Southern Himachal Pradesh is a region in Himachal Pradesh, consisting of Shimla, Sirmaur and Solan districts.
By train
While there are few railways within Himachal Pradesh, it is an effective way to get to within a short distance of the state.
By bus
Bus is the cheapest and only practical means of getting to many points in Himachal. All cities of interest have direct services from Delhi.
By bus
Travel by bus can be done throughout for very little (15-hour bus rides are rarely more than a few hundred rupees). Public buses, though uncomfortable, are a great way to meet people.
By train
Given the difficult geographical position of the state, there is very little penetration of railways. Railways give access to peripheral districts and the capital, Shimla.
By motorcycle
Enfield motorcycles can be rented here for less than 5 dollars a day, with no verification of a motorcycle license. Note that the area may not be the best place to learn how to ride.
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