Here are twenty general knowledge questions with answers that could be asked in the Himachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (HPPSC) examination:
1. *Question:* Who is the current Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh?
*Answer:* Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.
2. *Question:* Which river is the main source of water for Himachal Pradesh?
*Answer:* The Sutlej River, along with other major rivers like Beas, Ravi, Chenab, and Yamuna.
3. *Question:* What is the capital of Himachal Pradesh?
*Answer:* Shimla.
4. *Question:* Which district in Himachal Pradesh is known as the "Apple Bowl of India"?
*Answer:* Kotkhai and Kotgarh in Shimla district, but more broadly, Shimla district.
5. *Question:* Who was the first President of India?
*Answer:* Dr. Rajendra Prasad.
6. *Question:* What is the name of the famous temple in Himachal Pradesh dedicated to Lord Shiva?
*Answer:* Baijnath Temple.
7. *Question:* Which pass connects Manali to Leh?
*Answer:* Rohtang Pass, though for travel to Leh, one would typically go further through other passes like Baralacha La, Nakee La, Lachulung La, and Taglang La.
8. *Question:* What is the state animal of Himachal Pradesh?
*Answer:* Snow Leopard.
9. *Question:* Which city is known as the "Queen of Hills" in India?
*Answer:* Mussoorie, though Shimla is also often referred to in similar terms.
10. *Question:* Who founded the Mughal Empire in India?
*Answer:* Babur.
11. *Question:* What is the main crop grown in the Kangra valley of Himachal Pradesh?
*Answer:* Tea.
12. *Question:* Which famous trekking route is located in Himachal Pradesh?
*Answer:* The Hampta Pass Trek.
13. *Question:* Who was the famous Sikh Guru who had his connection with Mandi in Himachal Pradesh?
*Answer:* Guru Gobind Singh, though more directly associated with Anandpur Sahib in Punjab.
14. *Question:* What is the literacy rate of Himachal Pradesh according to the latest census?
*Answer:* This would require the latest census data, which I don't have in real-time, but as of the 2011 census, it was around 82.8%.
15. *Question:* Which festival is predominantly celebrated in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh?
*Answer:* The Kinnaur Kullu Dussehra, though each region has its unique festivals.
16. *Question:* What is the name of the famous hill station in Himachal Pradesh known for its British-era architecture and scenic beauty?
*Answer:* Shimla.
17. *Question:* Who was the first woman Prime Minister of India?
*Answer:* Indira Gandhi.
18. *Question:* Which Himachali city is known for its monasteries and Tibetan culture?
*Answer:* Dharamshala.
19. *Question:* What is the name of the highest peak in Himachal Pradesh?
*Answer:* Reo Purgyil.
20. *Question:* Which ancient university was located in the Himalayan foothills, significant to both India and Nepal?
*Answer:* While not directly in Himachal Pradesh but relevant to the broader region, Nalanda University is often discussed in such contexts. However, specific to Himachal Pradesh's historical context might refer to places like Tabo Monastery in Lahaul and Spiti district, known for its ancient scriptures and murals.
*Follow-up:* Would you like more questions on a specific topic or any particular difficulty level?