Q21. What is the name of the winter festival celebrated in Uttarakhand, known for kite flying?
a) Basant Panchami
b) Uttarayani
c) Phool Dei
d) Harela
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Correct Answer: b) Uttarayani
Explanation: Uttarayani, also known as Ghughutia or Kale Kauva, is a winter festival celebrated in Uttarakhand, particularly in the Kumaon region. It coincides with Makar Sankranti and is known for kite flying competitions. People also prepare sweet dumplings called ghughute, which are offered to crows and other birds. The festival marks the transition of the sun into Capricorn.
Q22. Which UNESCO World Heritage Site in Uttarakhand is known for its high-altitude meadows and diverse flora?
a) Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks
b) Jim Corbett National Park
c) Rajaji National Park
d) Gangotri National Park
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Correct Answer: a) Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks
Explanation: The Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. Located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, these parks are renowned for their stunning alpine meadows, diverse flora, and spectacular mountain scenery. The Valley of Flowers is particularly famous for its variety of wildflowers that bloom during the monsoon season.
Q23. What is the name of the traditional Uttarakhand dish made from black soybean?
a) Kafuli
b) Bhang ki Chutney
c) Chainsoo
d) Mandua ki Roti
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Correct Answer: c) Chainsoo
Explanation: Chainsoo is a traditional Garhwali dish from Uttarakhand made primarily from black soybean (bhatt). The beans are roasted, ground into a fine powder, and then cooked with spices to create a thick, protein-rich curry. It’s a staple food in many parts of Uttarakhand and is known for its unique flavor and nutritional value.
Q24. Which famous ashram in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, was visited by The Beatles in 1968?
a) Parmarth Niketan
b) Sivananda Ashram
c) Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s Ashram
d) Swarg Ashram
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Correct Answer: c) Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s Ashram
Explanation: The Beatles visited Maharishi Mahesh Yogi’s ashram in Rishikesh in 1968. This visit brought international attention to Rishikesh and popularized Transcendental Meditation. The band members spent several weeks at the ashram, during which they wrote numerous songs. The ashram, now known as “Beatles Ashram,” is a popular tourist attraction, though it’s no longer functioning as an ashram.
Q25. What is the name of the hydroelectric project on the Bhagirathi River in Uttarakhand that has been a subject of environmental debates?
a) Tehri Dam
b) Koteshwar Dam
c) Tapovan-Vishnugad Dam
d) Vishnuprayag Dam
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Correct Answer: a) Tehri Dam
Explanation: The Tehri Dam, located on the Bhagirathi River in Uttarakhand, is one of the tallest dams in India and has been a subject of environmental and social debates. The project, which began in 1978 and was completed in 2006, has faced criticism for its environmental impact and the displacement of local communities. However, it plays a crucial role in flood control, power generation, and water supply for the region.
Q26. Which hill station in Uttarakhand is known as the “Lake District of India”?
a) Mussoorie
b) Nainital
c) Ranikhet
d) Almora
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Correct Answer: b) Nainital
Explanation: Nainital, located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, is renowned as the “Lake District of India” due to its abundance of natural freshwater lakes. The town is centered around the picturesque Naini Lake, which is eye-shaped and approximately two miles in circumference. This lake, along with others such as Bhimtal, Sattal, and Naukuchiatal, contributes to Nainital’s reputation as a prime tourist destination, attracting visitors year-round with its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.
Q27. Which lake is considered the centerpiece of Nainital?
a) Bhimtal Lake
b) Naini Lake
c) Sattal Lake
d) Naukuchiatal Lake
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Correct Answer: b) Naini Lake
Explanation: Naini Lake is the centerpiece of Nainital and the reason for the town’s name. This crescent-shaped freshwater body is surrounded by hills and is a major tourist attraction. Boating on Naini Lake is considered a quintessential Nainital experience, offering scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
Q28. What is the popular nickname given to Nainital?
a) Queen of Lakes
b) City of Seven Lakes
c) Lake Paradise
d) Himalayan Pearl
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Correct Answer: a) Queen of Lakes
Explanation: Nainital is often referred to as the “Queen of Lakes” due to its picturesque lake setting and surrounding natural beauty. This nickname reflects the town’s status as one of the most popular and scenic lake destinations in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand.
Q29. Which of the following is NOT one of the interconnected lakes at Sattal?
a) Ram Tal
b) Sita Tal
c) Laxman Tal
d) Naini Tal
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Correct Answer: d) Naini Tal
Explanation: Sattal, meaning “seven lakes,” is a group of seven interconnected freshwater lakes near Nainital. These include lakes like Ram Tal, Sita Tal, and Laxman Tal, among others. Naini Tal (Naini Lake) is not part of this group, as it is the main lake in Nainital town.
Q30. What is the highest peak in Nainital?
a) Snow View Point
b) Tiffin Top
c) Naina Peak
d) Kilbury
Show Answer
Correct Answer: c) Naina Peak
Explanation: Naina Peak, also known as China Peak, is the highest point in Nainital at an elevation of 2,615 meters (8,579 feet) above sea level. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges and the Nainital town. The peak is popular among hikers and is known for its scenic sunrise and sunset views.