Preface

My purpose of writing this book is to introduce Himachal Pradesh to the readers in a systematic and easily understandable manner. I hope that the information given in the book will be of use to everyone.

This reference book , containing all the important information about Himachal Pradesh, is compiled and arranged in a reader friendly format. It has several salient features that make it better and different from its competitors. It is comprehensive and detailed without being bulky and voluminous. Handy and packed with the latest information (updated up to April 2006), it has all the facts, figures, information and analysis that one needs.

This book is a compendium on history, geography, demography, culture, economy and society of Himachal. The book profiles each district and the entire state in a handy volume. Separate chapters on government and politics, agriculture, horticulture, education, health, tourism, communications, rural development, industry and other specialized areas make this an excellent reference book.

Every effort to verify the information given in this book for its correctness has been made and is based on authentic historical documents, government reports, other official documents, press releases and news reports.

This book will meet the need of students and candidates preparing for competitive examinations for comprehensive and compact reference material. In addition, general readers will find this an invaluable storehouse of interesting and relevant information. Government functionaries, non-government organizations, business executives, industrialists-every individual and institution will need this for ready reference.

Minakshi Chaudhry

Back Of Book

Himachal Pradesh has always been one of the most sought after tourist destinations in India, not just for the State's abundant natural beauty, but also for its rich, unique cultural heritage.

In this guide, Minakshi Chaudhry gives a detailed overview of this beautiful land in terms of its history, geography, demography, culture, economy and social structure. A systematic and easily accessible reference book, Himachal: A Complete Guide to the Land of Gods is a must - have for students, candidates preparing for competitive examinations, government functionaries, non - government organisations, industrialists and any individual who is interested in the ecology, history, geography of one of the most picturesque States in India. Himachal: A Complete Guide to the Land of Gods is an invaluable storehouse of interesting and relevant information.

Minakshi Chaudhry has travelled extensively as a reporter for the Indian Express. She has authored three books, Exploring Pangi Himalaya: A World Beyond Civilization, A Guide to Trekking in Himachal and Ghost Stories of Shimla Hills.