There are 12 districts in Himachal Pradesh. Places like Shimla, Bir, Dalhousie, Dharamshala, kulu, Manali and Mandi are famous tourist destinations. Shimla is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh having a cool and charming Himalaya outpost. It was earlier known as summer capital of India. Bir is a small hilly town with a large Tibetan community and several Buddhist monasteries.
Dalhousie is a eternal city still managing to hold the mesmerising old Victorian charm. Dharamshala is home to Buddhist Religious Guru Dalai Lama and Tibetan community. It is a major Buddhist center. Kulu and Manali are hot favorite among honeymooners and vacationers with breathtaking hill views and awesome climate.
Hindi, Pahari and Punjabi are main languages of this hilly state. Shimla, Kulu and Kangra have small airports, with services largely limited to Delhi. The rail route is very pleasing having narrow railway gauge in some hilly parts. Buses are the most used mode of transport in Himachal Pradesh. Tourists can also hire motorbikes for local traveling pleasure. Himachali food is often very simple but nutritious, including daal, rice, roti, vegetables, paneer, curds and pickles in the Punjabi influenced Pahari regions.
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