Himachal Pradesh is one of the fascinating areas of the Indian Himalayas. Famous for its breathtaking valleys, hill temple architecture, handicrafts and hospitable people, the state comprises of mostly hilly and mountainous terrain.

For trekkers and mountaineers, the valleys of Lahaul, Spiti, Kullu, Manali, Kangra and Chamba are the most exciting in the region. While the rest of Himachal is predominantly Hindu, the people of Lahaul and Spiti are mainly Buddhists and a number of interesting monasteries dot the area. Besides lush alpine pastures, high altitude passes, lakes and a riot of mountain streams, Himachal offers excellent views of glaciers and snow-topped peaks.

Walking trails thread through dense woods of oak, pine and fir. Tracks cross rivers at many points by simple rope-strung bridges. Steep hillsides yield to picturesque terraced fields. Pretty cottages nestle in tranquil sylvan surroundings. And everywhere is the presence of the hill people, gentle and cheerful.

Himachal’s snow fed rivers offer tremendous opportunities for the fast-growing sport of river-rafting which started in 1989 here and is now being held on the river Beas in Kullu, the Sutlej in Shimla, the Ravi in Chamba and the Chandra in Lahaul.