Explore the most important Himachal Pradesh GK Questions for upcoming competitive exams like HPPSC, HPSSC, Patwari, and Police – boost your preparation with accurate and exam-focused content. If you are getting ready for competitive exams that include Himachal Pradesh-related topics, this page will serve as a valuable resource for your preparation. It includes a carefully curated list of the most important and frequently asked questions about Himachal Pradesh’s history, geography, culture, politics, and significant events. Each point is designed to help you strengthen your knowledge and boost your confidence for exams. Go through this content to revise key facts and enhance your chances of success.
What is the significance of the Treaty of Sugauli in Himachal history?
🟩 The Treaty of Sugauli (1815–16)
- The treaty was concluded between the British East India Company and the Gurkhas of Nepal following the Anglo-Gurkha War.
- According to its terms, the Gurkhas were compelled to cede the regions of Garhwal and Kumaon to the British.
- The British then included parts like Sirmaur and Shimla hills into their territory, shaping modern Himachal.
- This treaty laid the foundation for British control over the hilly territories of Himachal Pradesh.
What was the main objective of the Pajhota movement in Sirmaur during 1942?
🟩 To support the Quit India Movement
- The Pajhota Movement was an important revolt in the princely state of Sirmaur, sparked by the Quit India Movement of 1942.
- It was led by people of the Pajhota area, who protested against the king’s autocratic rule and British dominance.
- This is the only movement in Himachal that directly responded to Gandhi’s Quit India call.
It showed the rising political consciousness of the Himachali people.
Who established the princely state of Chamba, and in which century?
🟩 Maru Varman in the 6th century A.D.
- Raja Meru Varman, originally from Kalagram (now known as Kalpa), established the Chamba kingdom.
- Raja Sahil Varman established the town of Chamba in the 10th century.
- Under his rule, Chamba grew into an important hub for art, sculpture, and miniature painting, gaining prominence for its rich cultural heritage.
- Its cultural and political heritage is one of the oldest in the Western Himalayas.
Which region of Himachal Pradesh was part of the ancient Trigarta kingdom?
🟩 Kangra region
- Trigarta is mentioned as one of the oldest kingdoms in the epic Mahabharata.
- The Katoch dynasty ruled it, one of the oldest royal families still in existence today.
- Kangra, formerly called Nagarkot, was the central seat of power in the ancient Trigarta realm.
- This area was strategically important due to its fertile valleys and access to trade routes.
When was the Shimla Agreement signed, and what was its relevance to Himachal Pradesh?
🟩 Signed on July 2, 1972, in Shimla
- After the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War, the Shimla Agreement was formalized between India and Pakistan to address various bilateral issues.
- It was held in Shimla, which brought global attention to the city as a center for peace talks.
- The agreement emphasized peaceful resolution of disputes and laid the foundation for Indo-Pak bilateral relations.
- Shimla became an internationally recognized city after this historic event.
What is the significance of the Kalka-Shimla Railway in Himachal Pradesh’s heritage?
🟩 UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Constructed in 1903, the Kalka-Shimla Railway ranks among the highest narrow-gauge rail lines globally.
- The Kalka-Shimla Railway, with its 102 tunnels and 864 bridges, is a prime example of the impressive engineering skills that the British used during the colonial era, showcasing their expertise in building such a complex railway system through challenging terrain.
- In 2008, UNESCO recognized it as a World Heritage Site under the “Mountain Railways of India” classification.
- This railway is a major tourist attraction and a symbol of colonial heritage in Himachal.
