Test: Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab , Uttarakhand and Haryana- Physical - 5 - UPSC MCQ

The former name of the state of Uttarakhand was Uttaranchal. It was officially renamed Uttarakhand in the year 2007. Uttaranchal was formed on November 9, 2000, out of the north-western districts of Uttar Pradesh and the Himalayas. The renaming of the state aimed to reflect its geographical and cultural significance as it translates to "part of the North." This change in name not only acknowledged the region's distinct identity but also represented the aspirations and pride of its people.

The district of Nainital is part of the Kumaon division in Uttarakhand, along with five other districts. Kumaon is one of the two divisions of Uttarakhand, the other being Garhwal division. The Kumaon division is located in the eastern part of the state and comprises districts such as Almora, Pithoragarh, Bageshwar, Champawat, Nainital, and Udham Singh Nagar. Nainital, a popular hill station and tourist destination known for its serene lakes and breathtaking views, is situated in the Kumaon division.

Uttarakhand shares its northern border with Tibet, which is an autonomous region located in the People's Republic of China. The border between Uttarakhand and Tibet spans across the majestic Himalayan mountain range. This border region is characterized by its stunning landscapes, high-altitude passes, and strategic importance due to its proximity to the international boundary.

Uttarakhand has two capitals. Dehradun is the interim capital and the largest city in the state. It serves as the administrative and educational hub of Uttarakhand. Gairsain, on the other hand, is the summer capital of Uttarakhand. It is a small town located in the Chamoli district and holds symbolic significance as it represents the aspirations of the people of Uttarakhand to establish a permanent capital that is centrally located and accessible to all regions of the state.

Corbett National Park, located in Uttarakhand, is renowned for its tiger population. It is one of the oldest national parks in India and was established in 1936 as Hailey National Park. The park was later renamed in honor of Jim Corbett, a British-Indian hunter and conservationist. Corbett National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering opportunities to spot not only tigers but also a diverse range of flora and fauna, including elephants, leopards, deer, and numerous bird species.

The people of Uttarakhand predominantly speak three main languages: Hindi, Garhwali, and Kumaoni. Hindi is the official language of the state and serves as the lingua franca for communication across different regions. Garhwali is primarily spoken in the Garhwal division, while Kumaoni is spoken in the Kumaon division. These languages hold cultural significance and are an integral part of the identity and heritage of the people of Uttarakhand.

The state animal of Uttarakhand is the Himalayan musk deer. This unique and elusive species is known for its distinct musk gland, which is highly valued for its fragrance and medicinal properties. The Himalayan musk deer is found in the alpine forests and high-altitude regions of Uttarakhand. Due to habitat loss and illegal hunting for its musk gland, the species is categorized as vulnerable and protected under wildlife conservation efforts in Uttarakhand.

Kedarnath temple, situated at an elevation of 3584 meters, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the most revered and significant Hindu pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand. The temple is part of the Char Dham Yatra, which encompasses four sacred sites in Uttarakhand. Kedarnath temple holds immense religious and spiritual importance and attracts thousands of devotees and pilgrims from around the world. It is nestled amidst the breathtaking Himalayan peaks and is renowned for its architectural grandeur and spiritual ambiance.

Garhwal division in Uttarakhand consists of seven districts, namely Dehradun, Uttarkashi, Tehri Garhwal, Rudraprayag, Haridwar, Pauri Garhwal, and Chamoli. The Garhwal division is located in the western part of Uttarakhand and is known for its scenic beauty, pilgrimage sites, and cultural heritage. On the other hand, the Kumaon division comprises six districts, namely Almora, Pithoragarh, Nainital, Bageshwar, Champawat, and Udham Singh Nagar. Both divisions collectively contribute to the diverse landscapes and cultural tapestry of Uttarakhand.

Carrying a map while traveling in Uttarakhand is essential as it provides comprehensive information and assists in various aspects of the journey. A map helps in navigating the roads and locating important locations, including hotels, tourist spots, and emergency services such as hospitals. It ensures that travelers can plan their itinerary effectively, avoid getting lost, and make the most of their time in Uttarakhand. By referring to a map, visitors can have a well-guided and informed travel experience, enhancing their overall exploration of the state.