The
state is located in altitudes ranging from 450 metres (1,476 ft) to 6,500
metres (21,325 ft) above sea level. The state capital is Shimla (formerly
British India's summer capital under the name Simla); other major towns
include Una, Solan, Dharamsala, Kangra, Mandi, Chamba, Hamirpur, Dalhousie
and Manali.
People: Most of the people in Himachal depend on agriculture for livelihood. Many people derive their income from sheep, goats, and other cattle. Ninety percent of the people live in villages and small towns. Villages usually have terraced fileds and small two storey houses with sloping roof. The villages are mostly self-contained with a few shops to take care of basic necessities of life.
Religion: Most of the people in Himachal are Hindus. There
is a sizable number of Buddhists who live in Himachal. Hinduism
practiced in the areas of Himachal that are closer to the northern plains
is very similar to the Hinduism practiced in the plains.
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