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Northwest India
Majestic palaces, cool hill stations and spectacular Himalayan scenery, India's remarkable contrasts come to life in the states of the northwest.
- Capital cities: Rajasthan - Jaipur; Himachal Pradesh - Shimla
- Population: Rajasthan - 75,530,000 (est 2015), Himachal Pradesh - 6,856,509, Garhwal - 5,000,000 (est)
- Size of country: Rajasthan - 342,239 km sq, Himachal Pradesh - 55,673 km sq, Garhwal - 14,580 km sq
- Currency: Indian Rupee
- Power supply: 220-240v
- Sockets: two pin sockets or Indian three-round pin variety
- Language: Gahrwal - Gahrwali, Sanskrit & Hindi, Rajasthan - Hindi, Marwari, and Rajasthani, Himachal Pradesh - Hindi and Pahari
- Time difference: GMT +5.5 hours
- Visas: British nationals require a visa to visit India which must be obtained in advance.
- Religion: Rajasthan - 89% Hindu, 9% Muslim, 3% others, Himachal Pradesh - 96% Hindu, Muslim 2%, Buddhists 1%, Sikhs, 1%
- Popular dishes: Rajasthan - Bajre ki roti (millet bread) and Lashun ki chutney (hot garlic paste) are famous dishes of the region. Rajasthanis also enjoy a wide range of sweet dishes which are eaten before, during and after a meal. In Himachal Pradesh, Roti Sabzi (flat bread) is very popular along with Patande - the 'Indian pancake'. Pulses form the staple diet in Garhwal, often served with fiery chutneys.
- Popular drinks: Rajasthan - Chai (tea) including Kashmiri Chai a pink milky tea served with pistachios and casamon. Himachal Pradesh - Lassi (fermented milk) and Tchaku Cha (a salty tea based drink).
- Did you know: Jaipur is known as the 'Pink City' because in 1876, the city it was painted with terracotta pink colour to provide a grand welcome for of the Prince of Wales. Since then the name has not only stuck, but has given the city its unique identity.
- FCDO advice: FCDO travel advice for India