Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, both the States are a part of northern Himalayan range so it becomes difficult for the visitors and travelers to choose one. Though both the states are beautiful in their own way but this article will give a little idea about why to choose Himachal Pradesh over Uttarakhand. We will give you reasons that make Himachal different from other Himalayan states and why visiting Himachal will be worth your time and money.
Well, HIMACHAL PRADESH….. It’s not just a State but it’s a feeling, a feeling so strong and so beautiful that you wouldn’t want to miss it for the world.
Facilities
Himachal provides good facilities due to good governance and early development. Transportation is very convenient not only by roadways but also by railways and airways. Moreover both the regions are known for their extreme weather conditions so it is better to visit Himachal as chances of natural calamities is on the lesser side as compared to Uttarakhand.
It is easily accessible as there are 3 airports :
- Gaggal airport, district Kangra
- Bhuntar airport, district Kullu
- Jubbarhatti airport, district Shimla
Moreover, if you are willing to go to Leh-Ladakh then you have an easy way that goes from Himachal. A road trip starting from Manali passing the Rohtang peak (which is mostly covered in snow takes your spirit level to another level) and then passing Lahaul district which will further directly lead your way to Leh-Ladakh. Your destination will be great for obvious reasons but the journey through Himachal will be become your unforgettable life time experience. You might miss this experience in Uttarakhand so for me Himachal is and will always be the better state than Uttarakhand for holidays.
Art and culture:
Himachal is very diverse and has got versatile culture. It is divided in two parts- upper Himachal and lower Himachal due to which one can see stunning glimpses of little varying cultures. Himachal has 509 temples and is known as the “Devbhoomi” which translates to “the land of Gods”. Famous Nicholas Roerich art gallery in village Naggar, district Kullu is something you would definitely regret not visiting.
You can also easily see different religions like Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism flowering all over HP. This multicultural experience is one of a kind. If I talk about culture, it can be beautifully seen in different dance forms too like Naati, Luddi etc. Naati done in Kullu has also got a place for itself in Guinness World Book of records for the highest number of people gathering at one place performing their folk dance- Naati.
People of Himachal are very friendly and honest, making it easy and comfortable to mix up with them.
I believe that I have given you enough reasons to believe that Himachal pradesh is better for Holidays than Uttarakhand and if you are still confused I have written few more points.
Malana – The oldest democratic State
The most antique and unique thing about Himachal Pradesh is the small village Malana located in district Kullu on the way to Kasol (mini Israel) situated in the beautiful Parvati valley. It is said that the people from there are the descendants of Alexander the Great’s soldiers. The type of language they speak and the way they live is quite different from others. Travelers from various countries of the World come to visit this place because of so many reasons. Some of them are:-
- The village has got rules and regulation of its own.
- It is believed to be the oldest democracy and mostly doesn’t run according to the Indian law and order.
- Most importantly the best quality cannabis (Hashish) is found here which serves many medicinal purposes.
Read: Kasol Rave party best thing to do in life
Upper Himachal range:
The upper HP range comprises of the districts mainly Lahaul Spiti, Kinnaur, Chamba . The 2 districts Lahaul and Kinnaur have an influence of Tibetan culture over them and share the international boundary with China. Chitkul is the last village of India and touches the Indo-Tibetan boundary. Buddhist pilgrimages between the snowy hills give a mesmerizing experience for a lifetime you should definitely not miss.
Kinnaur – It is a beautiful place with very kind hearted people who believe in simple living. This State has beautiful scenic views which might make you want to pinch yourself as the beauty these places hold is overwhelming and unbelievable. In Kinnaur, Sangla is the most beautiful place to visit and Manimahesh Kailash peak will provide you with the most divine spiritual experience.
Lahaul Spiti – A beautiful district with the largest area and very less population due to extreme weather conditions, is also termed as cold desert having such a soul soothing contrast of Hinduism and Buddhism. In Kaza village, you can see many adorable Buddhist monasteries.
A plus point for riders is that u can experience driving at the highest motor able roads there are in India.
Chamba – This district has its own distinct features, most popular being the place Dalhousie, well known for the history of Britishers there. In Chamba you can also visit Minjjar mela (fair) which is very famous and is held in Khajjiar ground, every year.
The things mentioned above are some very rare things which will convince you that why Himachal pradesh should be a better choice than Uttarakhand for Holidays
Homemade naturally extracted drinks:
These are the naturally extracted wines only found in HP namely Angoori, Moorie, Shuting , Lugdi, Rashi etc. One must try these drinks. These are made up of grapes, apple, rice and thus they are totally natural hence good for health and also increase the immunity of body against severe cold. They are most commonly used as a holy drink in the festivals and celebrations across Himachal.
Trekking
Trekking!! How we can miss talking about it when we are talking about Himachal Pradesh. If you are doing it for the first time or you are an experienced trekker, Himachal offers a good range of hills and mountains for all.
From easy, Indradhar trek (4342mtrs) to a moderate one, Chandartal trek (4950mtrs) and also challenging one like Bhara Bhangal trek (5468mtrs). Himachal has got a lot to offer to trekkers, so one can easily choose according their own feasibility and ability.
Read: 10 best treks to do in Himachal pradesh
World heritage sites in HP:
Popularly known as queen of hills, Shimla was the famous summer capital of Britishers. This place has totally different things to offer you than rest of the cities.
Only at this place you can enjoy the ride of Kalka-Shimla toy train which covers 806 bridges, 103 tunnels and 18 stations. Moreover we have a very old church, Advance Studies, Golf club, Ice skating rink and many such other unique things to be offered in HP that you won’t find in Uttarakhand.
HP also lets you experience the 3 unique Sanctuaries:-
- Lipa – Asrang sanctuary
- Rakcham – Chitkul sanctuary
- Rupi – Bhaba sanctuary
So i believe that if you are confused between Uttarakhand and Himachal pradesh than your first choice should always be Himachal pradesh as it is far much better than Uttarakhand.
International Festivals
In Himachal, each district has got different fairs and festivals which probably you will miss in Uttarakhand. Here is a list of festivals and fairs that are worldwide famous and attract a large number of international visitors.
- Maha Shivratri, District Mandi
- Kullu Dusshera, District Kullu.
- Winter Carnival Manali,
- Ice skating festival Dalhausie and Shimla District.
- Halda and Losar in District Lahaul.
Adventure sports:
Well, to be clear with the fact that Himachal has got a wide number of adventure sports to offer than Uttarakhand but only for the ones who has got a strong head and not for the weak hearts. Here is a brief list of adventurous things one can do.
- River rafting
- Still water sports
- Mountain cycling
- Ice skating
- Paragliding
- Trekking
- Skiing
- Mountaineering and rock climbing
- Vehicle safari
- Camping
- Zorbing
- River crossing
- Snow scooter
- Cable car rope-way
- River crossing
Read: Most haunted places in Himachal
Himachal hand-looms:
Himachal is a well known Indian State for its handicrafts. Till date, people are not able to match, quality wise, such good woolen clothing in any other Himalayan state.
Himachal has the best quality wool and has various kinds such as goat wool, rabbit wool (angora), yak wool etc. The production of wool in HP is higher in comparison to other states so it also contributes to the economy of the HP.
The most famous brand of woolen shawl is Bhuttico which was established in district Kullu.
So for people who adore art and beauty, Himachal Pradesh is far good a choice, as you can get lots of handicraft products in wide range like Shawls, Topis, Socks, Gloves, Jackets, Pullovers etc.
So concluding from all the points mentioned above there is no way one can defy the fact that exploring Himachal Pradesh first is much better choice if you haven’t visited both Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
Don’t forget to share the charm of Himachal Pradesh.