Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab , Haryana and Uttarakhand - Physical | Geography for UPSC CSE PDF Download

 Page 1


Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab , 
Haryana and Uttrakhand- Physical 
 
 
Ladakh 
Introduction 
Ladakh, situated in the northern and eastern Kashmir region of the northwestern 
Indian subcontinent, is a vast area divided between Pakistan and India. Pakistan 
administers its northwest as part of Gilgit-Baltistan, while India governs the 
southeast as part of Ladakh union territory. Additionally, China holds control over 
parts of northeastern Ladakh. Spanning approximately 45,000 square miles 
(117,000 square km), Ladakh encompasses the Ladakh Range, an extension of the 
Karakoram Range, as well as the upper Indus River valley. Renowned for its 
impressive height, Ladakh stands as one of the highest regions in the world, 
characterized by high plains and deep valleys. 
Geography and Topography 
? Ladakh's natural landscape predominantly features vast high plains and 
deep valleys. The eastern part of Ladakh is dominated by a high plain that 
gradually diminishes towards the west. In the southeastern region lies 
Rupshu, an area distinguished by large, brackish lakes situated at an 
elevation of approximately 13,500 feet (4,100 meters). To the northwest of 
Rupshu lies the Zaskar Range, a remote and inaccessible region where 
extreme cold forces both the local inhabitants and cattle to remain indoors 
for a significant portion of the year. The Zaskar River flows northward 
through this region and eventually joins the Indus River below Leh, which is 
the most accessible town in Ladakh located about 160 miles (260 km) east 
of Srinagar. 
? In the heart of Ladakh, further to the north, valley villages exist where 
farmers practice cultivation with the aid of manuring and irrigation. These 
villages, situated at elevations ranging from approximately 9,000 to 15,000 
feet (2,750 to 4,550 meters), engage in agricultural activities. Meanwhile, in 
the upland valleys that are too high for cultivation, shepherds tend to their 
flocks. 
Page 2


Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab , 
Haryana and Uttrakhand- Physical 
 
 
Ladakh 
Introduction 
Ladakh, situated in the northern and eastern Kashmir region of the northwestern 
Indian subcontinent, is a vast area divided between Pakistan and India. Pakistan 
administers its northwest as part of Gilgit-Baltistan, while India governs the 
southeast as part of Ladakh union territory. Additionally, China holds control over 
parts of northeastern Ladakh. Spanning approximately 45,000 square miles 
(117,000 square km), Ladakh encompasses the Ladakh Range, an extension of the 
Karakoram Range, as well as the upper Indus River valley. Renowned for its 
impressive height, Ladakh stands as one of the highest regions in the world, 
characterized by high plains and deep valleys. 
Geography and Topography 
? Ladakh's natural landscape predominantly features vast high plains and 
deep valleys. The eastern part of Ladakh is dominated by a high plain that 
gradually diminishes towards the west. In the southeastern region lies 
Rupshu, an area distinguished by large, brackish lakes situated at an 
elevation of approximately 13,500 feet (4,100 meters). To the northwest of 
Rupshu lies the Zaskar Range, a remote and inaccessible region where 
extreme cold forces both the local inhabitants and cattle to remain indoors 
for a significant portion of the year. The Zaskar River flows northward 
through this region and eventually joins the Indus River below Leh, which is 
the most accessible town in Ladakh located about 160 miles (260 km) east 
of Srinagar. 
? In the heart of Ladakh, further to the north, valley villages exist where 
farmers practice cultivation with the aid of manuring and irrigation. These 
villages, situated at elevations ranging from approximately 9,000 to 15,000 
feet (2,750 to 4,550 meters), engage in agricultural activities. Meanwhile, in 
the upland valleys that are too high for cultivation, shepherds tend to their 
flocks. 
Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab , 
Haryana and Uttrakhand- Physical 
 
 
Climate and Vegetation 
Ladakh experiences a cold and dry climate. The average annual precipitation 
amounts to approximately 3 inches (80 mm). The region frequently encounters 
fine, dry, flaked snow, which at times falls heavily. Vegetation in Ladakh is 
primarily found in valleys and sheltered areas, where stunted growths of tamarisk 
shrubs (genus Tamarix), furze (also known as gorse, which are spiny plants 
belonging to the legume family), and other plants provide much-needed 
firewood. The main agricultural products cultivated in Ladakh include wheat, 
barley, millet, buckwheat, peas, beans, and turnips. Woolen cloth and other 
textiles form the primary manufacturing sector. 
Historical Significance and Contested Territory 
Ladakh has been a subject of dispute between India and Pakistan since the 
partition of British India in 1947. Following the cease-fire agreement of 1949, 
India acquired control over the southeastern portion of Ladakh, while the 
remaining area went to Pakistan. In the early 1960s, China gained control over its 
share of Ladakh through military intervention. 
Conclusion 
Ladakh, with its awe-inspiring heights and diverse topography, captivates visitors 
with its unique natural features. The region's cold and dry climate, combined with 
limited vegetation, poses challenges to its inhabitants. Nonetheless, Ladakh 
sustains agricultural activities, with valley villages serving as centers of cultivation. 
The historical complexities surrounding Ladakh's territorial control add another 
layer to its rich tapestry. 
 
 
 
 
Page 3


Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab , 
Haryana and Uttrakhand- Physical 
 
 
Ladakh 
Introduction 
Ladakh, situated in the northern and eastern Kashmir region of the northwestern 
Indian subcontinent, is a vast area divided between Pakistan and India. Pakistan 
administers its northwest as part of Gilgit-Baltistan, while India governs the 
southeast as part of Ladakh union territory. Additionally, China holds control over 
parts of northeastern Ladakh. Spanning approximately 45,000 square miles 
(117,000 square km), Ladakh encompasses the Ladakh Range, an extension of the 
Karakoram Range, as well as the upper Indus River valley. Renowned for its 
impressive height, Ladakh stands as one of the highest regions in the world, 
characterized by high plains and deep valleys. 
Geography and Topography 
? Ladakh's natural landscape predominantly features vast high plains and 
deep valleys. The eastern part of Ladakh is dominated by a high plain that 
gradually diminishes towards the west. In the southeastern region lies 
Rupshu, an area distinguished by large, brackish lakes situated at an 
elevation of approximately 13,500 feet (4,100 meters). To the northwest of 
Rupshu lies the Zaskar Range, a remote and inaccessible region where 
extreme cold forces both the local inhabitants and cattle to remain indoors 
for a significant portion of the year. The Zaskar River flows northward 
through this region and eventually joins the Indus River below Leh, which is 
the most accessible town in Ladakh located about 160 miles (260 km) east 
of Srinagar. 
? In the heart of Ladakh, further to the north, valley villages exist where 
farmers practice cultivation with the aid of manuring and irrigation. These 
villages, situated at elevations ranging from approximately 9,000 to 15,000 
feet (2,750 to 4,550 meters), engage in agricultural activities. Meanwhile, in 
the upland valleys that are too high for cultivation, shepherds tend to their 
flocks. 
Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab , 
Haryana and Uttrakhand- Physical 
 
 
Climate and Vegetation 
Ladakh experiences a cold and dry climate. The average annual precipitation 
amounts to approximately 3 inches (80 mm). The region frequently encounters 
fine, dry, flaked snow, which at times falls heavily. Vegetation in Ladakh is 
primarily found in valleys and sheltered areas, where stunted growths of tamarisk 
shrubs (genus Tamarix), furze (also known as gorse, which are spiny plants 
belonging to the legume family), and other plants provide much-needed 
firewood. The main agricultural products cultivated in Ladakh include wheat, 
barley, millet, buckwheat, peas, beans, and turnips. Woolen cloth and other 
textiles form the primary manufacturing sector. 
Historical Significance and Contested Territory 
Ladakh has been a subject of dispute between India and Pakistan since the 
partition of British India in 1947. Following the cease-fire agreement of 1949, 
India acquired control over the southeastern portion of Ladakh, while the 
remaining area went to Pakistan. In the early 1960s, China gained control over its 
share of Ladakh through military intervention. 
Conclusion 
Ladakh, with its awe-inspiring heights and diverse topography, captivates visitors 
with its unique natural features. The region's cold and dry climate, combined with 
limited vegetation, poses challenges to its inhabitants. Nonetheless, Ladakh 
sustains agricultural activities, with valley villages serving as centers of cultivation. 
The historical complexities surrounding Ladakh's territorial control add another 
layer to its rich tapestry. 
 
 
 
 
Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab , 
Haryana and Uttrakhand- Physical 
 
 
Himachal Pradesh 
Introduction 
Himachal Pradesh, situated in the extreme northern part of the Asian 
subcontinent, is a state of India. It shares its borders with Jammu and Kashmir 
union territory to the northwest, Ladakh union territory to the northeast, Tibet 
Autonomous Region of China to the east, Uttarakhand to the southeast, Haryana 
to the south, and Punjab to the west. Known for its breathtaking beauty, 
Himachal Pradesh is nestled in the western Himalayas, offering a diverse 
landscape of snow-clad mountains, deep gorges, lush valleys, picturesque lakes, 
terraced fields, and cascading streams. The name "Himachal" itself signifies its 
characteristic feature of "snowy slopes" (derived from the Sanskrit words hima 
meaning "snow" and acal meaning "slopes"), while "Pradesh" means "state." 
Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, was once the summer headquarters 
for British viceroys before India gained independence. Today, it stands as a 
popular mountain resort, attracting visitors from far and wide. On January 25, 
1971, Himachal Pradesh attained statehood, transitioning from a union territory 
to a full-fledged state. With an area of 21,495 square miles (55,673 square km) 
and a population of 6,856,509 as of 2011, Himachal Pradesh holds a significant 
place on India's map. 
Geography and Drainage 
? Himachal Pradesh's diverse terrain is characterized by several parallel 
physiographic regions aligned in a northwest-southeast direction, following 
the ranges of the Himalayan mountain system. Along its southern border 
with Punjab and Haryana, the state consists of two stretches of the Siwalik 
Range, also known as the Outer Himalayas. These stretches are separated 
by long, narrow valleys. The elevations in the southern tract average 
around 1,600 feet (500 meters), while in the northern tract, they range 
between 3,000 and 5,000 feet (900 and 1,500 meters).  
Page 4


Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab , 
Haryana and Uttrakhand- Physical 
 
 
Ladakh 
Introduction 
Ladakh, situated in the northern and eastern Kashmir region of the northwestern 
Indian subcontinent, is a vast area divided between Pakistan and India. Pakistan 
administers its northwest as part of Gilgit-Baltistan, while India governs the 
southeast as part of Ladakh union territory. Additionally, China holds control over 
parts of northeastern Ladakh. Spanning approximately 45,000 square miles 
(117,000 square km), Ladakh encompasses the Ladakh Range, an extension of the 
Karakoram Range, as well as the upper Indus River valley. Renowned for its 
impressive height, Ladakh stands as one of the highest regions in the world, 
characterized by high plains and deep valleys. 
Geography and Topography 
? Ladakh's natural landscape predominantly features vast high plains and 
deep valleys. The eastern part of Ladakh is dominated by a high plain that 
gradually diminishes towards the west. In the southeastern region lies 
Rupshu, an area distinguished by large, brackish lakes situated at an 
elevation of approximately 13,500 feet (4,100 meters). To the northwest of 
Rupshu lies the Zaskar Range, a remote and inaccessible region where 
extreme cold forces both the local inhabitants and cattle to remain indoors 
for a significant portion of the year. The Zaskar River flows northward 
through this region and eventually joins the Indus River below Leh, which is 
the most accessible town in Ladakh located about 160 miles (260 km) east 
of Srinagar. 
? In the heart of Ladakh, further to the north, valley villages exist where 
farmers practice cultivation with the aid of manuring and irrigation. These 
villages, situated at elevations ranging from approximately 9,000 to 15,000 
feet (2,750 to 4,550 meters), engage in agricultural activities. Meanwhile, in 
the upland valleys that are too high for cultivation, shepherds tend to their 
flocks. 
Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab , 
Haryana and Uttrakhand- Physical 
 
 
Climate and Vegetation 
Ladakh experiences a cold and dry climate. The average annual precipitation 
amounts to approximately 3 inches (80 mm). The region frequently encounters 
fine, dry, flaked snow, which at times falls heavily. Vegetation in Ladakh is 
primarily found in valleys and sheltered areas, where stunted growths of tamarisk 
shrubs (genus Tamarix), furze (also known as gorse, which are spiny plants 
belonging to the legume family), and other plants provide much-needed 
firewood. The main agricultural products cultivated in Ladakh include wheat, 
barley, millet, buckwheat, peas, beans, and turnips. Woolen cloth and other 
textiles form the primary manufacturing sector. 
Historical Significance and Contested Territory 
Ladakh has been a subject of dispute between India and Pakistan since the 
partition of British India in 1947. Following the cease-fire agreement of 1949, 
India acquired control over the southeastern portion of Ladakh, while the 
remaining area went to Pakistan. In the early 1960s, China gained control over its 
share of Ladakh through military intervention. 
Conclusion 
Ladakh, with its awe-inspiring heights and diverse topography, captivates visitors 
with its unique natural features. The region's cold and dry climate, combined with 
limited vegetation, poses challenges to its inhabitants. Nonetheless, Ladakh 
sustains agricultural activities, with valley villages serving as centers of cultivation. 
The historical complexities surrounding Ladakh's territorial control add another 
layer to its rich tapestry. 
 
 
 
 
Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab , 
Haryana and Uttrakhand- Physical 
 
 
Himachal Pradesh 
Introduction 
Himachal Pradesh, situated in the extreme northern part of the Asian 
subcontinent, is a state of India. It shares its borders with Jammu and Kashmir 
union territory to the northwest, Ladakh union territory to the northeast, Tibet 
Autonomous Region of China to the east, Uttarakhand to the southeast, Haryana 
to the south, and Punjab to the west. Known for its breathtaking beauty, 
Himachal Pradesh is nestled in the western Himalayas, offering a diverse 
landscape of snow-clad mountains, deep gorges, lush valleys, picturesque lakes, 
terraced fields, and cascading streams. The name "Himachal" itself signifies its 
characteristic feature of "snowy slopes" (derived from the Sanskrit words hima 
meaning "snow" and acal meaning "slopes"), while "Pradesh" means "state." 
Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, was once the summer headquarters 
for British viceroys before India gained independence. Today, it stands as a 
popular mountain resort, attracting visitors from far and wide. On January 25, 
1971, Himachal Pradesh attained statehood, transitioning from a union territory 
to a full-fledged state. With an area of 21,495 square miles (55,673 square km) 
and a population of 6,856,509 as of 2011, Himachal Pradesh holds a significant 
place on India's map. 
Geography and Drainage 
? Himachal Pradesh's diverse terrain is characterized by several parallel 
physiographic regions aligned in a northwest-southeast direction, following 
the ranges of the Himalayan mountain system. Along its southern border 
with Punjab and Haryana, the state consists of two stretches of the Siwalik 
Range, also known as the Outer Himalayas. These stretches are separated 
by long, narrow valleys. The elevations in the southern tract average 
around 1,600 feet (500 meters), while in the northern tract, they range 
between 3,000 and 5,000 feet (900 and 1,500 meters).  
Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab , 
Haryana and Uttrakhand- Physical 
 
 
? Beyond the Siwaliks lie the Lesser (or Lower) Himalayas, reaching heights of 
about 15,000 feet (4,500 meters) and encompassing magnificent snow-
capped ranges such as Dhaola Dhar and Pir Panjal. To the north of the 
Lesser Himalayas lies the Zaskar Range, which towers above the other 
ranges, reaching elevations exceeding 22,000 feet (6,700 meters). 
Numerous active mountain glaciers originate from this region.  
? The state of Himachal Pradesh is blessed with perennial snow-fed rivers 
and streams. The Sutlej River drains the eastern portion of the state, while 
the Chenab (Chandra-Bhaga), Ravi, and Beas rivers, originating in the Great 
Himalayas, flow through the western part. 
Climate 
Himachal Pradesh experiences a range of climatic conditions across its varied 
topography. In the Siwalik region, summers (March to June) are hot, with 
temperatures often surpassing 100 °F (38 °C). Winters (October to February) are 
cool and dry, while the rainy season (July to September) brings monsoon showers 
from the southwest. As one moves farther north and gains elevation, the climate 
becomes cooler and wetter. In the Great Himalayas, winters are bitterly cold and 
snowy, with temperatures dropping below 0 °F ( –18 °C). 
Population and Languages 
The population of Himachal Pradesh comprises various distinct ethnolinguistic 
groups and social castes. Among the prominent communities are the Gaddi, 
Gujari, Kinnauri, Lahuli, and Pangwali. Since India's independence in 1947, many 
Punjabi immigrants have settled in the major towns and cities of the state. 
Hinduism is the predominant religion, with Buddhists forming the majority in the 
sparsely populated districts of Lahaul and Spiti and Kinnaur, which share a border 
with Tibet. Additionally, there are small Sikh, Muslim, and Christian communities. 
Hindi, the official state language, along with Pahari, an Indo-Aryan language, are 
the principal languages spoken in Himachal Pradesh. However, in Lahaul and Spiti 
and Kinnaur, the most widely spoken languages belong to the Sino-Tibetan family. 
Page 5


Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab , 
Haryana and Uttrakhand- Physical 
 
 
Ladakh 
Introduction 
Ladakh, situated in the northern and eastern Kashmir region of the northwestern 
Indian subcontinent, is a vast area divided between Pakistan and India. Pakistan 
administers its northwest as part of Gilgit-Baltistan, while India governs the 
southeast as part of Ladakh union territory. Additionally, China holds control over 
parts of northeastern Ladakh. Spanning approximately 45,000 square miles 
(117,000 square km), Ladakh encompasses the Ladakh Range, an extension of the 
Karakoram Range, as well as the upper Indus River valley. Renowned for its 
impressive height, Ladakh stands as one of the highest regions in the world, 
characterized by high plains and deep valleys. 
Geography and Topography 
? Ladakh's natural landscape predominantly features vast high plains and 
deep valleys. The eastern part of Ladakh is dominated by a high plain that 
gradually diminishes towards the west. In the southeastern region lies 
Rupshu, an area distinguished by large, brackish lakes situated at an 
elevation of approximately 13,500 feet (4,100 meters). To the northwest of 
Rupshu lies the Zaskar Range, a remote and inaccessible region where 
extreme cold forces both the local inhabitants and cattle to remain indoors 
for a significant portion of the year. The Zaskar River flows northward 
through this region and eventually joins the Indus River below Leh, which is 
the most accessible town in Ladakh located about 160 miles (260 km) east 
of Srinagar. 
? In the heart of Ladakh, further to the north, valley villages exist where 
farmers practice cultivation with the aid of manuring and irrigation. These 
villages, situated at elevations ranging from approximately 9,000 to 15,000 
feet (2,750 to 4,550 meters), engage in agricultural activities. Meanwhile, in 
the upland valleys that are too high for cultivation, shepherds tend to their 
flocks. 
Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab , 
Haryana and Uttrakhand- Physical 
 
 
Climate and Vegetation 
Ladakh experiences a cold and dry climate. The average annual precipitation 
amounts to approximately 3 inches (80 mm). The region frequently encounters 
fine, dry, flaked snow, which at times falls heavily. Vegetation in Ladakh is 
primarily found in valleys and sheltered areas, where stunted growths of tamarisk 
shrubs (genus Tamarix), furze (also known as gorse, which are spiny plants 
belonging to the legume family), and other plants provide much-needed 
firewood. The main agricultural products cultivated in Ladakh include wheat, 
barley, millet, buckwheat, peas, beans, and turnips. Woolen cloth and other 
textiles form the primary manufacturing sector. 
Historical Significance and Contested Territory 
Ladakh has been a subject of dispute between India and Pakistan since the 
partition of British India in 1947. Following the cease-fire agreement of 1949, 
India acquired control over the southeastern portion of Ladakh, while the 
remaining area went to Pakistan. In the early 1960s, China gained control over its 
share of Ladakh through military intervention. 
Conclusion 
Ladakh, with its awe-inspiring heights and diverse topography, captivates visitors 
with its unique natural features. The region's cold and dry climate, combined with 
limited vegetation, poses challenges to its inhabitants. Nonetheless, Ladakh 
sustains agricultural activities, with valley villages serving as centers of cultivation. 
The historical complexities surrounding Ladakh's territorial control add another 
layer to its rich tapestry. 
 
 
 
 
Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab , 
Haryana and Uttrakhand- Physical 
 
 
Himachal Pradesh 
Introduction 
Himachal Pradesh, situated in the extreme northern part of the Asian 
subcontinent, is a state of India. It shares its borders with Jammu and Kashmir 
union territory to the northwest, Ladakh union territory to the northeast, Tibet 
Autonomous Region of China to the east, Uttarakhand to the southeast, Haryana 
to the south, and Punjab to the west. Known for its breathtaking beauty, 
Himachal Pradesh is nestled in the western Himalayas, offering a diverse 
landscape of snow-clad mountains, deep gorges, lush valleys, picturesque lakes, 
terraced fields, and cascading streams. The name "Himachal" itself signifies its 
characteristic feature of "snowy slopes" (derived from the Sanskrit words hima 
meaning "snow" and acal meaning "slopes"), while "Pradesh" means "state." 
Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, was once the summer headquarters 
for British viceroys before India gained independence. Today, it stands as a 
popular mountain resort, attracting visitors from far and wide. On January 25, 
1971, Himachal Pradesh attained statehood, transitioning from a union territory 
to a full-fledged state. With an area of 21,495 square miles (55,673 square km) 
and a population of 6,856,509 as of 2011, Himachal Pradesh holds a significant 
place on India's map. 
Geography and Drainage 
? Himachal Pradesh's diverse terrain is characterized by several parallel 
physiographic regions aligned in a northwest-southeast direction, following 
the ranges of the Himalayan mountain system. Along its southern border 
with Punjab and Haryana, the state consists of two stretches of the Siwalik 
Range, also known as the Outer Himalayas. These stretches are separated 
by long, narrow valleys. The elevations in the southern tract average 
around 1,600 feet (500 meters), while in the northern tract, they range 
between 3,000 and 5,000 feet (900 and 1,500 meters).  
Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab , 
Haryana and Uttrakhand- Physical 
 
 
? Beyond the Siwaliks lie the Lesser (or Lower) Himalayas, reaching heights of 
about 15,000 feet (4,500 meters) and encompassing magnificent snow-
capped ranges such as Dhaola Dhar and Pir Panjal. To the north of the 
Lesser Himalayas lies the Zaskar Range, which towers above the other 
ranges, reaching elevations exceeding 22,000 feet (6,700 meters). 
Numerous active mountain glaciers originate from this region.  
? The state of Himachal Pradesh is blessed with perennial snow-fed rivers 
and streams. The Sutlej River drains the eastern portion of the state, while 
the Chenab (Chandra-Bhaga), Ravi, and Beas rivers, originating in the Great 
Himalayas, flow through the western part. 
Climate 
Himachal Pradesh experiences a range of climatic conditions across its varied 
topography. In the Siwalik region, summers (March to June) are hot, with 
temperatures often surpassing 100 °F (38 °C). Winters (October to February) are 
cool and dry, while the rainy season (July to September) brings monsoon showers 
from the southwest. As one moves farther north and gains elevation, the climate 
becomes cooler and wetter. In the Great Himalayas, winters are bitterly cold and 
snowy, with temperatures dropping below 0 °F ( –18 °C). 
Population and Languages 
The population of Himachal Pradesh comprises various distinct ethnolinguistic 
groups and social castes. Among the prominent communities are the Gaddi, 
Gujari, Kinnauri, Lahuli, and Pangwali. Since India's independence in 1947, many 
Punjabi immigrants have settled in the major towns and cities of the state. 
Hinduism is the predominant religion, with Buddhists forming the majority in the 
sparsely populated districts of Lahaul and Spiti and Kinnaur, which share a border 
with Tibet. Additionally, there are small Sikh, Muslim, and Christian communities. 
Hindi, the official state language, along with Pahari, an Indo-Aryan language, are 
the principal languages spoken in Himachal Pradesh. However, in Lahaul and Spiti 
and Kinnaur, the most widely spoken languages belong to the Sino-Tibetan family. 
Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab , 
Haryana and Uttrakhand- Physical 
 
 
Settlement Patterns 
Himachal Pradesh remains one of the least urbanized states in India, with less 
than 10 percent of its population residing in urban areas. The state has over 50 
towns, and the capital city of Shimla stands as a reasonably sized urban center. 
Former princely states such as Bilaspur, Mandi, Chamba, and Kullu now serve as 
district headquarters. Hill resorts of British origin, including Dalhousie, Kasauli, 
and Sabathu, attract tourists. Kangra, Palampur, Solan, and Dharmshala are 
notable towns in the state. 
Economy 
? Agriculture, pastoralism, transhumance, horticulture, and forestry form the 
backbone of the livelihood for the majority of people in Himachal Pradesh.  
? The state government has actively promoted the development and 
diversification of manufacturing industries, with different towns specializing 
in the production of specific goods. For example, Nahan is known for 
agricultural implements, turpentine, and resin production, while Solan has 
been a major hub for manufacturing television sets, fertilizer, beer, and 
liquor. Rajban is associated with cement production, Parwanoo excels in 
processed fruits, tractor parts, and electronics, and Shimla boasts a 
reputation for electrical goods manufacturing. Baddi and Barotiwala are 
renowned for paper and hardboard products. In addition to the emphasis 
on manufacturing, Himachal Pradesh harnesses its abundant hydropower 
potential and mineral and forest resources.  
? The state is a significant producer of hydroelectric power in India, with 
notable plants like the Bhakra Dam, the Pong Dam, and the Nathpa Jhakri 
project. To safeguard the fragile Himalayan ecosystem and combat soil 
erosion in the Siwalik region, Himachal Pradesh has implemented 
reforestation programs and strengthened the enforcement of 
environmental laws.