It's India's 1st Smoke-Free Region, Has World's Highest Cricket Ground. But Called ‘Sleeping State' — Why?
Himachal Pradesh, known for its snow-covered mountains, thousands of glaciers, and even the world's highest cricket ground, is one of India's most unique states. Yet, despite these remarkable features, it is often referred to as the 'Sleeping State."
The reason lies not in laziness but in the calm way of life followed here. People live close to nature, keep to simple routines and rest early. This peaceful lifestyle is what gives the state its unusual nickname.
Nights End Before They Begin
In many parts of Himachal Pradesh, the day begins with sunrise. People wake up early, finish their work before evening and prefer to eat dinner before dark. By nightfall, most homes are quiet. This long-followed habit of sleeping early has become a defining feature of village life here.
Mountain Calmness
The state's beauty plays a big role in its slow pace. Snow-covered mountains, green valleys and clear rivers give Himachal its fresh air and pleasant, cool weather. The scenery and weather naturally create a restful mood, which is very different from crowded city life.
Himachal is India's first smoke-free state, a milestone achieved through schemes like the Himachal Grihini Suvidha Scheme and Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana. These provided free LPG connections to households that reduced indoor smoke. The state also has strict plastic restrictions.
Vedic Connection
Himachal is also known as 'Dev Bhoomi" – the Land of Gods. Ancient sages like Manu, Vashishth and Ved Vyas are believed to have lived and meditated here. Temples such as the Manu Temple in Manali and Vashishtha Ashram near the Beas River still draw spiritual seekers from around the world.
Himachal's 'Mini Switzerland'
Khajjiar, a beautiful hill station in Himachal Pradesh, is often called 'Mini Switzerland" because of its striking resemblance to the European country. This title dates back to July 7, 1992, when Willy Blazer, the Vice Chancellor and Head of the Swiss Chancery in India, visited and was reminded of Switzerland's landscapes.
A signboard was put up by him that showed the distance from Khajjiar to Bern. He also took a stone from Khajjiar, which was later placed in a collage outside the Swiss Parliament as a memento of this unique connection.
Home Of The Dalai Lama
Dharamshala, especially its suburb McLeod Ganj in Himachal Pradesh, is famously known as the 'home of the Dalai Lama." Since 1959, it has been the residence of the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, and the seat of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile. After the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959, the Dalai Lama fled his homeland and sought refuge in India.
The Indian government welcomed him and his followers and allowed them to settle in Dharamshala. By 1960, the Tibetan Government-in-Exile was formally established here. This area, often called 'Little Tibet," is a centre for Tibetan culture.
Land of Glaciers
Himachal Pradesh has over 2,500 documented glaciers. They are found in regions like Bara Banghal, Lahaul Spiti and Chandra valley, feeding major rivers such as the Beas, Ravi and Satluj.
World's Highest Cricket Ground
Built at a breathtaking 2,444 meters (8,018 feet) above sea level, the Chail Cricket Ground in Himachal Pradesh holds the title of the highest cricket ground in the world. It is located inside the Chail Military School and also hosts cricket and polo matches.
The Fruit Bowl Of India
The state's climate is perfect for fruit farming. Apples, peaches, plums, pears, cherries, kiwis, strawberries and apricots are grown here. This is why this state has earned the title 'Fruit Bowl of India." Orchards here are not just farms; they are a part of the state's identity.
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Asia's Pharmaceutical Hub
Baddi, in Himachal Pradesh, is one of Asia's largest pharmaceutical manufacturing hubs. It produces medicines for both domestic use and export. It is a significant contributor to India's pharma industry.
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First Published:
August 12, 2025, 12:23 IST
News viral It's India's 1st Smoke-Free Region, Has World's Highest Cricket Ground. But Called 'Sleeping State' — Why?
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