Geographical Divisions of Himachal Pradesh

In the last post we saw the three geographical divisions of Himachal Pradesh , now let us evaluate each of them briefly.

Poanta Valley

The Lower Hills or Outer Himalayas : These are the parts of Himachal which typically come under the Shivalik hills and its valleys. The districts of Hamirpur , Una , Bilaspur and the valleys of Solan , Kangra and Sirmaur come under this region. This is also the region of the highest rainfalls in the state which can be between 1500 to 1800 mm annually . The rich and fertile valleys of Kangra, Poanta and Blah are located in this zone. This zone is suitable for the cultivation of rice, wheat, sugarcane, citrus fruits and potatoes.

Pir Panjal near Rohtang La

Inner Himalayas or Mid-Mountain Zone : This zone consits of the intermediatery altitude areas of Himachal Pradesh such as Renuka and Pachaad tehsils of Siramaur , Upper parts of Kangra and Palampur tehsil , Karsog tehsil of Mandi. This zone has an annual rainfall range of 700 - 1100 mm and the region is famous for its rich Deodar forests. This zone is helpful in the growth of Poatatoes , Stone fruits , Soft fruits and temprate fruits . Two of the most famous mountain ranges of Dauladhars and Pir Panjal run through this zone.

Bara Lacha la Pass

Greater Himalayas or Alpine zone : This zone

consists of High altitude areas of the state like Lahaul-Spiti , Kinnaur and Pangi tehsil of Chamba district. These areas have scanty rainfall if any through the yeat round . The region is usually cutoff from the rest fo the state due to heavy snowfall in winters. Climate of the region is temperate in summers and semi-arctic in the winter months. The highest peaks of the state are present in these regions. The weather of this region permits growth of high altitude crops and dry-fruits only. These are the least populous parts of the state though occupy the maximum area , also certain special reservation and privileges are provided to the people of this tough terrain.