Himachal Pradesh, being a Himalayan state, is known for its majestic mountain ranges, picturesque valleys, and important mountain passes that have historical, cultural, and strategic significance. These physical features form an essential part of the static GK section in state-level exams.
In this section, you’ll find exam-focused MCQs covering the locations, importance, and geographical features of Himachal’s ranges, valleys, and mountain passes.
Major Mountain Ranges in Himachal Pradesh:
Shivalik Hills: Outer Himalayas, low altitude range
Dhauladhar Range: Steep range running through Kangra and Chamba
Pir Panjal Range: Lies between Ravi and Chenab rivers
Zanskar Range: High-altitude range in Lahaul-Spiti
Great Himalayan Range: Highest range; home to glaciers and major peaks
Famous Valleys of Himachal Pradesh:
Kullu Valley: Also called the “Valley of Gods”
Chamba Valley: Rich in history and surrounded by Dhauladhar
Spiti Valley: Cold desert valley known for monasteries and rugged terrain
Lahaul Valley: Glacial rivers, scenic beauty, and tribal culture
Baspa Valley (Sangla): A lush valley in Kinnaur, rich in apple orchards
Important Passes in Himachal Pradesh:
Rohtang Pass: Connects Kullu with Lahaul-Spiti
Kunzum Pass: Gateway to Spiti from Lahaul
Baralacha La: Connects Lahaul to Ladakh via Leh
Jalori Pass: Scenic pass between Kullu and Shimla regions
Shipki La: Indo-China border pass in Kinnaur district
Sach Pass: Connects Chamba with Pangi Valley
Mountain Ranges, Valleys and Passes Practice MCQ Question and Answer
61
What covers the surface of the Kangra Valley?
Answer & Solution
Answer: Option C
The surface is covered with the richest cultivation, irrigated by the lovely streams which descend from perennial snows.
62
Who are the Gaddi maidens mentioned in the context of Kangra Valley?
Answer & Solution
Answer: Option B
In the mysterious forests of Dhauladhar wander the lovely Gaddi maidens, unconscious of their beauty, living a life of pastoral simplicity.
63
Kangra Valley is significant for which art form?
Answer & Solution
Answer: Option C
In this valley, we do find the Kangra paintings known for their ageless beauty, in which human love has been represented in line and colour with great delicacy.
64
What is a major geographical feature of the Kullu Valley?
Answer & Solution
Answer: Option C
This is a broad open valley formed by the Beas river between Mandi and Larji.
65
What is characteristic of the Beas river's course in the Kullu Valley?
Answer & Solution
Answer: Option B
The course of the Beas river presents a succession of magnificent scenery, including cataracts, gorges, precipitous cliffs and mountains, clad with forests of Deodar, towering above trees of Pine on the lower rocky ridges.
66
What is a common natural feature found in various places in the Kullu Valley?
Answer & Solution
Answer: Option B
Hot water springs occur in various places much resorted to as places of pilgrimages.
67
How does the Kullu Valley's appearance change?
Answer & Solution
Answer: Option B
The valley changes its appearance and complexion with each change of season.
68
What is the typical temperament of the people of Kullu?
Answer & Solution
Answer: Option B
They have a naturally happy temprament, and their hilarity and fun have a free play, especially during religious festivals like Dushehra.
69
What is the altitude variation in the Baspa Valley?
Answer & Solution
Answer: Option C
The altitude of this valley varies from 1,830 meters at the confluence of the Baspa river with the Satluj and 3,475 meters at the highest village of Chitkul.
70
What geographical feature lies at the head of the Baspa Valley?
Answer & Solution
Answer: Option B
At the head of the valley lies the lofty Chung Shakhago Pass.
71
What is a result of the heavy snowfall in the upper ranges of the Baspa Valley?
Answer & Solution
Answer: Option B
Due to heavy snowfall, the upper ranges of this valley remain snow covered and so hardly any vegetation is grown.
72
What contributes to the prosperity of the people in the Baspa Valley?
Answer & Solution
Answer: Option B
Owing to the excellent climate and fertile landscape, the people in this valley are quite rich and prosperous.
73
Who are considered the descendants of the Kinners in local tradition?
Answer & Solution
Answer: Option C
In the lush land live the descendants of the Kinners-the demi gods of the Hindu pantheon, whose deeds have been immortalized in epics and the poems of ancient Sanskrit poets.
74
What is the local belief about the origin of Kinnaur and its beauty?
Answer & Solution
Answer: Option B
It is no wonder that a local tradition maintains that Kinnaur with all its beauty fell from the clouds as a gift from the gods.