Report Himachal Pradesh State Geology and Mineral Maps Geological Survey of India 0

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GEOLOGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES OF THE STATES OF INDIA
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GEOLOGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES

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HIMACHAL PRADESH
Miscellaneous Publication No. 30 : Part - XVII
(Second Revised Edition)
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Published by order of the Government of India
2012
Geological Survey of India (2012)
Compilation
C.S. Jamwal and A.K. Wangu
Senior Geologists
Scrutiny
R.S. Rana
Director
Manuscript Processing
D.D. Bhattacharya, Champa Sensarma and S.S. Hasan
Senior Geologists
Supervision and Editorial Scrutiny

Dr. P.C. Bandopadhayay
Director
Publication Division, Northern Region
Guidance and Overall Supervision

L.S. Jain and Dr. S. Mukerji
Deputy Directors General (Retd.)
Geological Survey of India
M. Chakradhar
Director-in-Charge
State Unit : PH & HP
D.R.V. Ramana Murty
Deputy Director General & HOD
Northern Region
Geological Survey of India

Northern Region
Sector E, Aliganj, Lucknow - 226 024
Price : Inland : ` 144 Foreign : 4.1 $ 6.5 4.9
Front cover : Panoramic view of Bandal Granitoid, Rukti Dhar - Srikhand Dhar (Great Himalayan Zone) Kullu District, H.P.
Back cover : Damming of Giri River by glacial borne debris, Shimla District, H.P.
Printed at : Army Printing Press, 33 Nehru Road, Sadar Cantt, Lucknow Tel. (0522) 2481164
Geology and Mineral Resources of Himachal Pradesh
Introduction
Since time immemorial metal constituted an of mapping in the Lesser Himalaya. In the Higher
integral part of human development. Exploration and Himalaya notable contributions were made by
exploitation of mineral wealth form a vital parameter of Griesbach (1891), Stoliczka (1865) and Lyddeker
development and modernization of a nation, where (1879). However, it was Hayden (1904) who provided
particularly, Geology plays the pivotal role. Realising a lucid and detailed synthesis of the Spiti Geology,
this, the Geological Survey of India, since its inception which became a basis for all subsequent studies in
has been the torch-bearer by constantly and the Tethyan Basin.
ceaselessly providing basic geoscientific inputs and In post-independent era, amongst the main
attributes required for the sustainable harnessing of workers are Mathur and Kohli (1963), Dutt (1952) and
mineral wealth. The Miscellaneous Publication No. 30 Raina (1953) in Tertiaries, Sehgal (1965) followed by
series is meant for updating and revisioning of existing Dutta (1972), Prashra and Rapa (1979) in Chamba,
geoscientific database. The present volume is the Srikantia and Sharma (1976) in Shali belt, Sharma
second revised edition, with updated available (1977) in Larji window, Bhargava et al., (1972) and
information pertaining to geology and mineral Bhargava (1977-78) in Rampur window, Bhargava (1976)
occurrences of Himachal Pradsh. in Krol belt, Prashra (1977) in Deoban, Srikantia et
al., (1970-73) and Bhargava et al., (1971-73, 1975,
The state is adorned with lofty mountains covers
1977-78) in the Jutogh belt. The Higher Himalaya of
an area of 55,673 sq km and is bounded by 30o 20
Lahaul was mapped on modern toposheets by
and 33o 15 N latitudes and 75o 45 and 79 o 00 E
Bhargava et al., (1974), Raina and Bhattacharya
longitudes. Physiographically, the state is bounded in
(1973), Kanwar and Ahluwalia (1980) and Prashra and
the north and northwest by Jammu and Kashmir, in
Das Gupta (1983), of Spiti by Bhargava et al., (1983-
the east by Tibet (China), in the southeast by
84), Bassi and Singh (1986) and Hans and Naidu
Uttarakhand, in the south by Haryana and in the
(1986) and of Kinnaur by Gaur and Ameta (1979) and
southwest by Punjab. Himachal Pradesh was made a
Bassi et al., (1981).
full-fledged State on 25th January, 1971. There are total
12 districts in the state namely Bilaspur, Chamba, Among the different kinds of mineral occurrences,
Hamirpur, Kangra, Kinnaur, Kullu, Lahul and Spiti, limestone represents the major mineral deposit of
Mandi, Shimla, Sirmaur, Solan and Una. Himachal Pradesh. Muktinath (1949), Vohra et al.,
(1976), Sharma (1983), Prashra (1977), Bhandari
The geological history of this state so far (1977), Chandra Shekhar (1983 & 1984) and Singh
established is mainly due to the protracted geological (1988) were involved in investigating the limestone
investigations and mapping carried out by the resources. Baryte, occurring next in abundance, has
geologists of the Geological Survey of India. Medlicott been investigated by Muktinath (1957), stibnite by Dutt
(1864) was the pioneer worker, who provided a broad and Ahmad (1957) and Srikantia and Padhi (1964).
base for the future geological work; Oldham (1887, Base metals in the Garsah valley were investigated
1888) and McMahon (1883) also provided new and by Sharma (1966) and Banerjee and Naidu (1985) and
noteworthy information. Modern structural concepts in the Tons valley by Sharma (1976) and Parimoo
were introduced in the Simla Hill by Pilgrim and West (1983). Gold as neo-placer occurrence was examined
(1928) while Auden (1934) established new standard by Saxena et al. (1985) and Sharma (1988).
1
Geol. Surv. Ind. Misc. Pub. 30(XVII)
Sah and Singh (1979), Kumbkarni and Sahai updated information related to geology and mineral
(1994), Singh (1999), Jamwal (2008), Jamwal and Sethi resources of Himachal Pradesh. The task has been
(2010) carried out Quaternary geology and accomplished under the watchful supervision of Shri
geomorphological studies. Geo-environmental R.S. Rana, Director, Technical Coordination-1, SU:
evaluation of all twelve districts of the state on regional PH&HP. Compilers wish to thank him for critically going
scale was carried out by Shome (1996), Kar and Singh through the manuscript. Help rendered by S/Shri
(1999), Wangu, (2003), Wangu and Kumar (2003), P.C.Sethi, Sr. Geologist and Rakesh Kumar, Steno is
Jamwal et al. (2004), Singh and Kulshrestha thankfully acknowledged. Compilers feel grateful to Shri
(2003), Jamwal, (2006 &2007) and Singh and Jamwal, D.R.V. Ramana Murty, Dy. Director General & HOD,
(2006). Northern Region for rendering every possible help and
support along with providing his valuable suggestions
Acknowledgements required for publishing this volume. Compilers also wish
The task of compilation is always challenging and to extend thanks and gratefulness to the Director and
a daunting one. A combined effort by the officers of officers of the Publication Division, Northern Region
GSI, Chandigarh office made it possible and the and also to all those who lent active support in finalizing
present revised volume is prepared with renewed and and publishing this work.
2
Physiography
Essentially being a hilly terrain the state of 5. Trans Himalayan/Higher Himalayan Zone: It is
Himachal Pradesh displays prominent features mainly a rain shadow area, having an average width
characterized by lofty mountain ranges incised by of 40km and height varying from 3000m to 6000m.
deeply dissected valleys carved out in slopes of The mountain ranges in general trend in NW-SE
various descriptions. The elevation above mean sea direction.
level varies from 320m in Una District, to 6975 m at
There is a network of perennial rivers in Himachal
Leo Pargil Peak of Kinnaur District. Physiographically,
Pradesh, which have glaciers as their sources. Majority
the State can be divided into five distinct parallel zones.
of the drainage of the State belongs to Indus River
From south to north these are:
System. The Satluj, Beas, Ravi, Chenab, Spiti, Parbati,
1. Alluvial Plain: A limited zone of nearly flat plain Pabbar, Tons and Giri are the main rivers of Himachal
developed at the foot hills of Siwalik Range in the Pradesh. Of these, the Satluj, which rises in the
vicinity of Indo-Gangetic Alluv ium in the highlands of Tibet, is an antecedent river. Most of the
southwestern and southeastern fringes of the rivers flow following the trend of the main structural
state with an average altitude of 375m. grain of the region.
2. Siwalik Foothills: It is also known as Sub- Nearly 17% of the total area of Himachal Pradesh
Himalaya and is the outermost mountainous zone is covered by glaciers. A recent study in 2004 has
of Himachal Himalaya, separating the state from documented 2,554 glaciers in the state, which are the
the plains of Punjab and Haryana. It is 8 km - source of fresh water to the rivers of North India. Bara
50 km wide zone, with altitude ranging from 345m Shigri is the largest glacier in the State, which is
to 1500m. This zone contains many prominent located in the Chandra valley of Lahaul and feeds the
longitudinal valleys viz. Una, Sirsa and Poanta Chenab River. The glacier is more than 25km long and
duns. about 3km wide. Chandra Nahan, Bhadal, Bhaga, the
Lady of Keylong, Mukkila and Hamata are other major
3. Lesser Himalayan Zone: It is a 65km to 80km
glaciers in the state. There are many fresh water lakes
wide zone between Sub-Himalaya and Central
in Himachal Pradesh.The Chandra Tal, Suraj Tal,
Himalaya. The altitude of this zone rarely exceeds
Yonam Tso and Nako Lake are the lakes formed due
3000m.
to damming of glaciers, while the Riwalsar and
4. Central Himalayan/Great Himalayan Zone: It Renuka lakes are due to damming of river/stream
comprises a zone of snow-capped peaks ranging courses. Besides, Gobindsagar, Pong and
in height from 4000m to 5000m. It separates the Pandoh are the artificial lakes in the state formed due
Lesser Himalayan zone from the Trans-Himalayan to the construction of dams across Satluj and Beas
zone. rivers.
3
Geology
The state of Himachal Pradesh is covered by the geological evolution, establishing an unanimously-
rocks ranging in age from Precambrian to Recent. The accepted geology and stratigraphy of Himalaya
normal order of super-position of the rocks in the Lesser remained mired with debate and controversy- posing
Himalaya has been affected by later events of a natural deterrent. With this backdrop, effort is made
thrusting. Owing to its complex tectonism and hereunder to present a generlised view.
AGE GROUP FORMATION LITHOLOGY

Channel Alluvium* Fine to coarse, micaceous, sand-silt and clay
Terrace Alluvium* Grey sand and grit with pebbles of sandstone and lenses of
HOLOCENE NEWER ALLUVIUM clay
Fan Alluvium*/ Brownish grey clay, sand and gravel with boulders
Bhangal
MIDDLE TO UPPER OLDER ALLUVIUM Older Alluvium*/Dun Multi cyclic sequence of brown to grey silt, clay with kankar
PLEISTOCENE Gravels and reddish brown to grey micaeous sand with pebbles
PLIO-PLEISTOCENE S UPPER Coarse sandstone, grit and conglomerate with local clay
I S G SIWALIK beds
MIO-PLIOCENE W U R MIDDLE Coarse micaceous sandstone with interbeds of earthy clay
A P O SIWALIK
MIOCENE L E U LOWER Sandstone - clay alternation
I R P SIWALIK
K
Kasauli /Upper Grey sandstone, siltstone, shale
Dharamshala Nako Granite
EOCENE -MIOCENE SIRMUR
Dagshai /Lower Maroon sandstone, siltstone,
Dharamshala
PALAEOCENE- Kakra /Subathu Shale, siltstone, sandstone, limestone.
EOCENE
CRETACEOUS Chikkim Shale, dolomite.
LAGUDARSI Giumal Glauconitic sandstone, shale
JURASSIC Spiti Shale Black shale, siltstone
Kioto Grey sporadically cherty thick-bedded dolomite and
limestone
Nunuluka Sandstone, limestone and shale
Alaror Shale limestone, dolomite and sandstone
LILANG Hangrang Grey, massive dolomite
TRIASSIC Sanglung Shale, limestone, dolomite and siltstone
Chomule Grey dolomite, shale and marl
Kaga Dark grey, green, calcareous shale,
Mikin Locally cherty dolomite and shale
Kalhel /Tandi Limestone and dolomite with Phirsephu Formation:
TANDI interbedded grey quartzite Crinoidal and pyritiferous
Kukti Carb. Phyllite, limestone, limestone and shale
calcareous slate,
PERMIAN Salooni Black shale, slate, calcareous slate and lenticles of
limestone
Panjal Volcanics Andesitic and basalt flows
Gungri Black shale, calcareous silty shale, phosphatic &
KULING calcareous nodules and thin limestone
Gechang Calcareous sandstone with local conglomerate
Ganmachidam Pebbly mudstone, siltstone, pebbly sandstone,
conglomeratic sandstone and black shale
CARBONIFEROUS KANAWAR Po Quartzarenite, siltstone, sandstone, and shale
Lipak Limestone, dolomite, grey shale with lenticular gypsum
beds
4
DEVONIAN Muth Quartzite White to mottled, quartzarenite

Takche Limestone, dolomite, shale, siltstone, and
SILURIAN SANUGBA
sandstone
ORDOVICIAN Thango Purple quartzite and shale
HAIMANTA# Kunzam La Siltstone, shale/slate, quartzite, sandstone
and dolomite
Koti Dhaman Tal Quartzarenite, shale, arkosic sandstone Mandi/
CAMBRIAN C, D and E and limestone Dalhousie/
TAL Grey siltstone, shale, greywacke Rakcham/
Sankholi Tal B
Bara
Shaliyana Tal A Green siltstone, carb.shale, chert, Shigri/
limestone, phosphorite
Rohtang/
Kauriyala /Krol C, D and Dolomite, cherty limestone, shale, Chor/
E sandstone, quartz arenite, calcilutite Kenchwa-
Jarasi /Krol B Shale, dolomite, limestone, calcilutite Pabbar
KROL
Mahi /Krol A Dolomite, oolitic limestone, shale Granitoids
Chambaghat (?Krol Quartzarenite and friable sandstone
Sandstone)
Infra Krol Black shale and slate, slaty quartzite
BALIANA
Blaini Diamictite shale and dolomitic limestone
Katarigali Carbonaceous slate and phyllite with
interbeds of quartzite
Manjir Diamictite with sandstone and intercalated
argillites
NEOPROTEROZOIC HAIMANTA# Batal Phyllite, grey quartzite and carbonaceous
phyllite
Sanjauli Sandstone, greywacke conglomerate
Chhaosa Shale, siltstone and greywacke
SIMLA Kunihar Stromatolitic limestone and shale
Basantpur Argillite and siltstone with bands of limestone and
dolomite
Nagthat Quartzarenite, grit, conglomerate, shale, slate phyllite
JAUNSAR Chandpur Shale, slate, phyllite, quartzite
Mandhali Limestone, argillite, arenite and conglomerate
Guma Shale, salt, grit and dolomite
Darla-Tattapani Quartzite, slate and basic flow
(=Peontra Volcanics)
Aut Stromatolitic limestone
LARJI
Hurla Quartzarenite with subordinate shale and argillites
Bandla Shale, slate, siltstone
Parmali Dolomite, limestone
Makri Shale, limestone, dolomite
MESOPROTEROZOIC SHALI
Tattapani Cherty dolomite, shale
Sorgharwari Limestone
DEOBAN
Khatpul Dolomite, quartzarenite and shale
Khaira Quartzarenite
Ropri Shale, siltstone, dolomite
Manikaran Quartzite Quartzite with bands of metabasalt
RAMPUR
Banjar Metabasalt, quartzite, phyllite
NARAUL Bhalan Slate, phyllite, quartzite
Maloh Purple quartz arenite, shale, slate phyllite
PALAEOPROTERO-ZOIC SUNDERNAG Mandi Volcanics Basaltic and andesitic flows
AR
Khokhan Phyllite, quartzite
KULU Gahr Gneiss, minor quartzite, phyllite
Khamrada Carb-phyllite, limestone, quartzite
5
Chamba Phyllite, slate

Shiasu Quartzite, schist band
VAIKRITA Morang Schist, quartzite
KharoRohtang Gneissic Sillimanite, kyanite-biotite schist, quartzite, gneiss,
Complex migmatite
Jaknoti Schist, gneiss, amphibolite, marble
Chirgaon Quartzite, schist, amphibolite
Rohru Schist, quartzite
Badrol Quartzite, quartz schist
UNDIFFERENTIATED Naura Schist, quartzite, gneiss, marble, amphibolite
PROTEROZOIC ** Kanda Quartzite, quartz schist
JUTOGH Taradevi Quartz schist, carb.phyllite, marmorised limestone,
amphibolite
Khirki Quartzite
Bhotli Slate, phyllite, quartzite
Manal Quartzite, carbonaceous phyllite
Panjerli Carbonaceous phyllite, schist, carbonaceous
limestone, quartzite
JEORI-WANGTU / BANDAL Granitoids, gneisses and migmatites
GNEISSIC COMPLEX
*used in informal stratigraphic sense

# Group/s comprising more than two formations, each concurrently representing different geological period/time.
** Era without affirmed age.
GRANITES: Jeori-Wangtu Banded Gneissic Complex; Bandal Granite; Kenchwa-Pabbar Granitoid Complex;
Chor Granitoid Complex; Mandi/Dalhousie Granite, Rakcham Granite, Bara Shigri Granite, Hanuman Tibba
Granite and Nako Granite.
The reconstructed stratigraphy of the rocks in and quartz schist. The topmost Chirgaon and Jaknoti
Himachal Pradesh is given below. formations consist of schist, quartzite, amphibolite and
Era wise description of various groups/ formations gneiss. Vaikrita Group is divided into Kharo, Morang,
exposed in the Himachal Pradesh is as follows; Shiasu and Chamba Formations. Kharo Formation
comprises sillimanite/kyanite schist, quartzite and
gneiss, which are argillo-arenaceous towards base,
PROTEROZOIC feldspathic in the middle and migmatized at the contact
Proterozoic rocks represented by Jutogh Group with Rakcham Granite. The Rohtang Gneissic
and Vaikrita Group mostly constitute the Lesser Complex represents the Kharo Formation in Higher
Himalayan terrain in Himachal Pradesh. The Jutogh Himalaya of Lahual and Kulu areas. Morang Formation
Group comprises Panjerli, Manal, Bhotli, Khirki, comprises schist and quartzite with rare calc silicate
Taradevi, Kanda, Naura, Badrol, Rohru, Chirgaon and and marble bands. Shiasu Formation consists of grey
Jaknoti Formations in ascending order. The Panjerli, green and purple quartzite with minor bands of biotite-
Manal, Bhotli Formations comprise carb-phyllite, chlorite schist and hornblende-schist. Chamba
quartzite, carbonaceous limestone, and schist Formation mainly comprises slate and phyllite with
whereas, Khirki and Kanda Formations comprise minor quartzite.
mainly quartzite. Taradevi Formation has variable
lithology comprising phylite and schist that are often Palaeoproterozoic
carbonaceous. Garnetiferous/staurolite/graphite Rocks of Jeori-Wangtu Banded Gneissic Complex
schist, sillimanite gneiss, quartzite, marble and and of other Groups namely Kulu and Rampur (=Naraul
amphibolite comprise the Naura Formation. Badrol and = Sundernagar) represent the Palaeoproterozoic
Rohru formations comprise mainly quartzite, schist period in the State. The Jeori-Wangtu Granitoid Gneiss
6
is strongly foliated with well-developed augen-gneiss, shale. The Tattapani Formation is predominantly made
mylonitic gneiss and porphyroblastic biotite gneiss with up of massive stromatolitic dolomite. The Makri
non-foliated granitoids in the central part. These are Formation is represented by inter-bedded sequence
the oldest rocks exposed in Himachal Pradesh forming of shale, slate, siltstone, quartzarenite and dolomitic
basement for the Rampur Group. However, some units limestone. The Parnali Formation comprises cherty,
of Bandal Granitoids show cross cutting relationship stromatolitic dolomite and subordinate quartzarenite.
with Rampur Group of rocks. The Kulu Group The Bandla Formation consists of green and purple
comprises Khamrada, Gahr and Khokan formations. shale, siltstone, sandstone, and cherty breccia. The
The Khamrada Formation forms the basal unit of Kulu Shali Group represents a shallow stable platformal
Group and is characterized by carbonaceous and type of sedimentation substantiated by the presence
graphitic phyllite-schist with bands of limestone. The of stromatolites, sedimentary structures like mud
Gahr Formation consists of quartzose, banded and cracks and oscillation ripple marks. The Deoban
streaky gneisses with alternate beds of schist and Group, which is exposed in the southwestern fringes
quartzite. The Khokan Formation comprises mainly of the State bordering Uttarakhand, is divided into three
quartzite, quartz schists, chlorite-quartz schist, slate formations. The basal, Atal/Dharagad Formation
and garnetiferous schist. The Kulu Group is one of comprises limestone, quartzite, slate and basic flows.
the three principal crystalline nappes of Himachal Minas Formation is represented by buff colored
Pradesh. The Naraul Group consists of quartzarenite limestone with slate partings, tuffaceous slate and
phyllite, shale, slate and diamictite whereas dolomite. Bajmara Formation consists of slate and
Sundernagar Group comprises dominantly of purple stromatolitic limestone. The Larji Group comprises a
coloured arenaceous sediments with argillites and sequence of slate, quartzarenite and diamictite overlain
characterized by interstratified basic lava flows of the by quartzarenite and carbonate rocks and is best
Mandi-Darla Volcanics. The Rampur Group presents exposed in Beas valley, Kulu area. The Hurla
an association of metabasalts and metasediments Formation forming basal part of Larji Group comprises
dominated by clastics. It is divisible into three quartzarenite with subordinate shale and argillites. The
Formations: Bhalan, Banjar and Manikaran. The overlying Aut Formation is characterized by carbonate
Bhalan Formation consists of slate, greenish phyllite rocks rich in stromatolites. The upper part of
and schist with inter-beds of flaggy quartz arenite and Mesoproterozoic is represented by Guma and Darla-
subordinate metabasics. The Banjar Formation Tattapani (Peontra volcanics) Formations. The Guma
comprises a thick sequence of dark green phyllite Formation in the Mandi area comprises shale, salt
representing metabasalts. The Manikaran Formation grit, purple grits and dolomite whereas, Darla-Tattapani
comprises quartzarenite/quartzite with occasional Formation is represented by quartzite, slate and basic
bands of metabasic rocks. flows.
Mesoproterozoic Neoproterozoic
The Mesoproterozoic rocks in the Himachal The Neoproterozoic sequence in the State has
Himalaya are classified into two stratigraphic Groups; been div ided into the Lower and the Upper
Shali (Deoban) and Larji. The Shali Group has been Neoproterozoic divisions. The Jaunsar Group, Simla
divided into eight formations namely Ropri, Khaira, Group and Batal Formation of Haimanta Group
Khatpul, Sorgharwari, Tattapani, Makri, Parnali and represent the Lower Neoproterozoic division. The
Bandla. The Ropri Formation, the basal unit consists Jaunsar Group is typically developed in the Deoban
of red shale, siltstone, dolomite and limestone. The structural belt where it has an autochthonous
Khaira Formation comprises cross-bedded quartz development. It is divisible into three formations namely
arenite and purple shale. The Khatpul Formation Mandhali, Chandpur and Nagthat. Mandhali Formation
comprises massive dolomite, cherty stromatolitic is characterized by a lithological association of
dolomite ad quartzarenite. The Sorgharwari Formation limestone, argillite, arenite and conglomerate. The
consists of pink, purple limestone and purple, green Chandpur Formation is characterized by the occurrence
7
of alternate sequence of argillite and arenite. It Member A comprises diamictites consisting of poorly
comprises a thick rhythmic sequence of shale, sorted clasts of various rock types in a sandy to
siltstone and greywacke sandstone. The Nagthat argillaceous matrix. Member B comprises shale and
Formation comprises sandstone, arkose, quartz, argillite whereas Member C consists of diamictite with
arenite, grit, conglomerate, grey, purple and green poorly sorted clasts embedded in a matrix of variable
shale, slate and phyllite. In the Pabbar Valley, a huge composition. The Member D comprises dolomitic
outcrop of granitoid gneiss (Kharsali Granitoid Gneiss) limestone and silty-pelsparite with purple and green
is concordant and is mainly seen close to the contact shale partings. The overlying Infra-Krol consists
between the Mandhali and Chandpur formations. dominantly of argillaceous association of black and
grey shale, slate and phyllite interbedded with thin
The Simla Group is divisible into four formations buff coloured slaty quartzite.
viz. Basantpur, Kunihar, Chhaosa and Sanjauli. The
Basantpur Formation is characterized by the abundant The Infra-Krol Formation passes into the Krol
interbeds of limestone and dolomite within argillite and Group with occurrence of Chambaghat Formation
siltstone whereas Kunihar Formation comprises (=Krol Sandstone Formation) at the base comprising
lenticular interbeds of stromatolite-bearing limestone quartzarenite and friable sandstone followed by Mahi,
with fissile shales. The Chhaosa Formation is Jarasi and Kauriyala Formations. The erstwhile Krol A
characterized by a thick rhythmic sequence of shale, Formation has been re-designated as Mahi Formation,
which comprises alternation of greenish grey
siltstone and greywacke. The Sanjauli Formation is
calcareous shale and argillaceous limestone with
divisible into Lower and Upper Members, on the basis
variable gradation. The Jarasi Formation (erstwhile Krol
of characteristic lithological associations. Lower
B Formation) is characterized by thinner laminated
member is characterized by an association of coarse
purple to red shale with green shale intercalations and
gritty sandstone and greywacke. The Upper Sanjauli
thin interbeds of dolomite and cherty limestone. The
Member comprises conglomerate and arkosic arenite
upper Kauriyala Formation encompasses erstwhile
exposed on the Kandaghat-Chail road.
Krol C, D and E Formations and re-designated as
The Batal Formation represents the upper part of members C, D and E. The Member C is represented
Lower Neoproterozoic and comprises grey-green by dolomite, cherty limestone and shale, Member D
phyllite, grey quartzite and carbonaceous phyllite in comprises an alternation of cherty limestone and shale
the lower part, quartzite alternating with pyritous whereas Member E is the topmost lithostratigraphic
carbonaceous phyllite in the middle and green chlorite unit with a dominant banded grey and pale cream white
phyllite, carbonaceous phyllite, quartzose phyllite with calci-lutite to dolo-lutite with a rugged appearance.
interbeds of pale white to grey quartzite in the upper Litho units of Krol Group have yielded algae, acritarchs,
part. stromatolites and oncolites ref errable to
Neoproterozoic.
The upper Neoproterozoic era in the State is
represented by Manjir Formation, Katarigali Formation,
Baliana Group and Krol Group. The Manjir Formation PALAEOZOIC
in the Chamba area comprises lenticular thick bedded Cambrian
or massive diamictite with subordinate sandstone and The Tal Group represents the Lower Cambrian
intercalated argillites. The matrix of the diamictite sequence in the Lesser Himalaya. It occurs in the
shows variation from sand, silt to clay. The Katarigali core of Nigali Dhar and Korgai synclines. The Tal Group
Formation comprises dark grey, carbonaceous slate is divisible into three formations namely Shaliyana,
and phyllite with interbeds of quartzite. The Blaini and Sankholi and Koti Dhaman. The Shaliyana Formation
Infra Krol Formations constitute the Baliana Group. comprises a sequence of earthy siltstone, chert and
The Blaini Formation rests unconformably over the carbonaceous shale, minor limestone and phosphorite.
Simla and Jaunsar group of rocks. It is divisible into The Sankholi Formation is made up of alternate bands
four members A, B, C and D in ascending order. of grey to olive green, fine to medium grained
8
arenaceous and argillaceous beds. Koti Dhaman spitiensis (Reed), Halysites Catenularia, H.wallichi,
Formation is characterized by medium to coarse- brachiopods: Orthis, Pentamerus oblongus, Chonetes;
grained arenaceous sediments comprising gastropods: Pleurotomaria, Bellerophon sp.,
quartzarenite, arkosic sandstone and limestone. Euomphalus cf. triquetrus; trilobite: Calymene;
bryozoa: Hallopora fistuliporid; algae: Girvanella,
In the Spiti / Kinnaur and Higher Himalayas,
Apidium indicum, Vermiporella. Presence of
Cambrian rocks are represented by Kunzam La
Vermiporella? Girvanella and Stromatoporids indicate
Formation of Haimanta Group. The Kunzam La
a back reef, partly organic and foreslope facies
Formation is made up of greenish grey siltstone, shale/
environment.
slate, quartzite, sandstone, dolomite, and local pebble
beds. The Kunzam La Formation in its basal part Devonian
encloses the trace fossils of Phycodes, Pedum, Devonian period in Himachal Himalaya is
Plagiogmus, Rusophycus, Diplichnites, Skolithos, represented by Muth Formation, which is constituted
Planolites & Gordia. In the upper part trilobites of compact to granular, medium to fine grained white
Ptychoparia, Oryctocephalus, Lingulella haimantensis, to mottled, locally grey quartzarenite. Gradually
Redlichia noetlingi, Olenus haimantensis of Middle dolomite beds of significant thickness appear. At
Cambrian age are found. places, olive green shales are associated with dolomite
Ordovician and sporadic conglomerate lenses. The white quartz
arenite contains 95% quartz and has bimodal grain
The Sanugba Group represents the Ordo-
size distribution. Low angle cross bedding, trough sets,
Devonian suite of rocks of the Spiti area. It is divisible
festoon and herringbone cross bedding, ripple bedding,
into Thango, Takche and Muth Formations each
channel fills and mud cracks are the characteristic
represnting different geological period. The Thango
attributes of this formation. Total absence of body fossils
Formation representing Ordovician in the State
and general absence of trace fossils together with
unconformably overlies the Kunzam La Formation. It
aforementioned bedding features are indicative of
largely consists of massive to bedded purple quartzite
transgressive upper shore facies to beach environment.
and shale. The Thango sequence is characterized by
herringbone, festoon and planar cross-bedding, rare Carboniferous
low angle cross bedding, ripple marks, mud cracks The Carboniferous rocks in Himachal Pradesh are
and current crescents indicating shallow tidal sea classified as Kanawar Group. These rocks are exposed
environment. The body fossils present include in the Spiti Basin and have been divided in to Lipak,
Raphistoma, Pentameras, Trochonems, Propora Po and Ganmachidam Formations. The Lipak
himalaica and P. (Lyella) americana. Trace fossils Formation comprises dark grey to black limestone and
include Arenicolites, Planolites, Phycodes circinatum, dolomite, grey shale and pink limestone and lenticular
P. Palmatum, Skolithos, Teichichnus, Rusophycus, snow-white and powdery gypsum beds in the upper
Rouaultia. Phycodes circinatum is known to be index part. The presence of limestone, dolomite and gypsum
fossil for Lower Ordovician. in the Lipak Formation suggests an evaporite
Silurian sequence. The environment of sedimentation varies
from subtidal to intertidal with acquisition of supratidal
The Takche Formation represents Silurian era in
conditions in the terminal part to form an evaporite
the State. An excellent section of this formation is
basin when gypsum was precipitated. It also contains
exposed at Manchap. It has a gradational to
important fossils like Syringothyris cuspidata,
intercalated contact with the Thango Formation. The
Syringothyris lydekkeri, Neospirifer bambadhurensis,
Takche Formation comprises a sequence of limestone,
Productus and Buxtonia sp.
dolomite, shale, siltstone and sandstone. Small ill
preserved reefal structures mainly made of coral and The Po Formation comprises thick sequence of
hydrozoa are found in the richly fossiliferous Takche white to grey, medium-grained quartzarenite, siltstone,
section. The important fossils are; Corals: Favosites sandstone and grey, black, locally pale green shale
9
with rare cherty partings. In the basal part of this In Chamba area Salooni Formation that overlies
formation plant fossils Rhacopteris ovata and Panjal Volcanics comprises black shale, slate,
Sphenopteridium furcillatum have been recorded. The calcareous slate and lenticles of limestone. Modiola
upper part contains a rich assemblage of bryozoa lidarensis, Spiriferella rajah, Productus sp. etc. are
Fenestella. Other fossils include Productus lineatus, the some of the important fossils. In Lahaul area, the
Dielasma, Reticularia lineata, Protoretepora ampla. Kukti Formation, the basal part of Tandi Group
Asteriacites, Aulichnites, Phycodes, Planolites and represents the Permian sequence. It comprises
Skolithos are common trace fossils. carbonaceous phyllite, bluish grey to greyish white;
thinly bedded to bedded limestone interbeds of
The Ganmachidam Formation has a gradational
calcareous slate, inter bands of cross-bedded
contact with the underlying Po Formation and
calcarenite and intraformational diamictite at the base.
comprises pebbly mudstone, pebbly siltstone, pebbly
This formation, which rests over the litho units of the
sandstone, conglomeratic sandstone and black shale
Neoproterozoic Batal Formation of Haimanta Group,
alternations. The clasts in the conglomerate vary in
has yielded Michelina salinaria, Waagenophyllum
size from granule to pebble, with rare cobbles. These
indicum and Wentezellella cf. salinaria. The later report
are moderately sorted, sub-angular to sub-rounded,
of cyclolobus oldhami is the most significant discovery
locally well rounded and are composed of sandstone,
confirming its assigned Permian age. The Phirsephu
limestone, shale, vein quartz and rare granite.
Formation comprising pyritiferous and crinoidal
Permian limestone overlying undifferentiated Kuling Group
The Permian in Himachal Pradesh is represented represents Permo-Triassic sequence in Lahaul-
by Kuling Group in the Spiti / Kinnaur, Kukti Formation Zanskar area.
of Tandi Group in Lahaul and Salooni Formation and
Panjal Volcanics in Chamba whereas, the Phirsephu MESOZOIC
Formation of Lahaul-Zanskar area represents the
Permo-Triassic sequence of the State. The andesitic Triassic
and basaltic flows of Panjal Volcanics of the Chamba Kalhel /Tandi Formation of Tandi Group and Lilang
area, bordering Jammu and Kashmir represent the Group represent the Triassic period in the state. The
volcanic phase that errupted during Permian. The Kuling Kalhel/ Tandi Formation in Chamba- Lahaul area
Group is divisible into Gechang and Gungri formations. normally overlies the Salooni Formation and comprises
The Gechang Formation has a highly variable thickness mainly grayish blue, grey and yellow limestone and
and comprises brown to grey, pale grey, coarse-grained dolomite with interbedded grey quartzite in the upper
weakly bioturbated, cross bedded, calcareous part. Limestone contains ossicles of crinoids in the
sandstone with local conglomerate and / or shell lag lower part. The Salooni and Kalhel Formations
at base containing Skolithos, Laevicyclus and represent the major Permo - Trias marine transgressive
Zoophycos trace fossils known from this formation. event in the Himalaya. In Spiti Valley, Triassic is
Euredesma cordatum, Deltopecten, E.hasdoensis, represented by Lilang Group that lies over the Kuling
E.mahendragarhensis, Waageno-phyllum and Group. The Lilang Group has been divided into eight
Neospirifer have been reported from this formation. The Formations namely Mikin, Kaga, Chomule, Sanglung,
Gungri Formation comprises black shale, calcareous Hangrang, Alaror, Nunuluka and Kioto. The Mikin
silty shale, phosphatic, cherty and calcareous nodules Formation is made up of dark grey to grey, locally
and thin limestone. Some of the nodules enclose fossil cherty dolomite and shale lenses repeated in cycles
shells. Zoophycos is a common trace fossil. Fossils of carbonate-shale units. This formation includes
present include Marginifera himalayensis Dien, Otoceras beds, Ophiceras beds, Meekoceras zones,
Productus gangeticus Dien, Chonetes cf. lisarensis Hedenstroemia beds, Basal Muschelkak, Nodular
Dien, Spiriferella rajah, Xenaspis carbonaria, Cyclobus Limestone, Lower Muschelkak and Upper
oldhami. Muschelkak. Its age ranges from Scythian to Anisian.
10
Kaga Formation rests conformably over the Mikin Jurassic

Formation and consists of light to dark grey, green, The Tagling Member of Kioto Formation (Lilang
calcareous shale, local abundant thin shelled pelagic Group) and Spiti Formation (Lagudarsi Group) form
Daonella and carbonate with filamentous wackestone part of Jurassic era in Spiti and Kinnaur area. The
indicating bathyal to subtidal environment of deposition Tangling Member is made up of dark grey to blue,
for this formation. fine-grained, cherty dolomite, lenticular conglomerate,
Chomule Formation rests conformably over the arenaceous limestone. Numerous f ossils of
Kaga Formation and is constituted of evenly bedded belemnites, bivalves and gastropods are found in this
light grey dolomite in basal part and dark grey dolomite member.
in the upper part with local subordinate calcareous Spiti Formation comprises black shale tending
shale and marl. Sanglung Formation is divisible into to be splintery, fine-grained sandstone and siltstone
three members and is made up of grey shale, with profusion of nodules of granule to boulder size,
limestone, dolomite and siltstone repeated in a cyclic many of these enclosing fossils in some sections.
order in the Member A. Member B consists of bedded, This formation is rich in fossils, which include
grey limestone, locally cherty dolomite, minor shale, Epimayites lemoini, Prograyiceras grayi, Grayiceras
siltstone and cross-bedded sandstone repeated koeneni, Mayaites waageni, Belemnopsis gerardi,
vertically in a cyclic pattern with carbonate at the base Inoceramus ef. Sularum, Lima melaancholica.
and shale /silt stone / sandstone towards top. Member Oxfordian to Tithonian age has been assigned to this
C is made up of shale, ferruginous cross-bedded formation.
sandstone, and syn-sedimentary breccia.
Cretaceous
Hangrang Formation is constituted of light to dark
The Lagudarsi Group represents the Cretaceous
grey, massive dolomite. Coral Thecosmilia in growth
period in Himachal Himalaya and is divisible into two
positions occurs with chain and solitary coral,
formations namely Giumal and Chikkim. Giumal
hydrozoan, tabulzoan, sponges, algae, brachiopod,
Formation is constituted of sandstone, siltstone, silty
lamellibranch, gastropod and ostracod.
shale, shale and local conglomerate lenses. The
Alaror Formation has a conformable contact with sandstone beds in basal part are calcareous and rich
the underlying Hangrang Formation and the overlying in body and trce fossils. The clasts and matrix in
Nunuluka Formation and is made up of dark grey to conglomerate are mainly composed of quartzite.
brownish shale with subordinate limestone, dolomite Some of the important fossils found in the Giumal
and cross-bedded sandstone. Lamellibranch Monotis Formation are - Cardium giumalense, Ostrea sp.,
and trace fossil Rhizocorallium are common in this Gryphaea aff. bayleri, Pecten sp., Tellina cf. strigata,
formation. The environment of deposition of the Alaror Pseudomonotis, Perisphinctes. Giumal Formation is
Formation seems to vary from platform edge to lagoon. assigned an age from Berriasian to uppermost Aptian.
Nunuluka Formation consists of gritty pale/ while cross-
The Chikkim Formation is divisible into basal
bedded and ripple marked sandstone, limestone and
Limestone Member and upper Shale Member. The
shale with rare pebbles arranged in cycles,
Limestone Member is made up of grey to bluish grey
commencing with limestone and ending in sandstone
limestone, dolomitic limestone with alternation of marl
/ shale. The lithology and microfacies suggest
and shale in the upper part. The Limestone member
deposition varying from mud / tidal flat to coastal area.
includes Globotruncana and radiolaria. The important
Kioto Formation is divisible into Para and Tangling
fauna from this member include Lenticulina sp.,
members. The lower Para Member represents Triassic
Dentalina sp., Nodosaria sp., Palmula rugosa, Lagena
sequence whereas, the upper Tangling Member falls
sp., Pseudotextularia cf. elegans, Globotruncana
under Jurassic. The Para Member consists of grey,
appeuninca. The Limestone Member is assigned
pale, creamish, sporadically cherty thick-bedded
Cenomanian to Turonian age. The shale member
dolomite and limestone. Limestone contains
comprises grey, ash grey, silty shale, shaly limestone
Megalodon ladakhensis Bittner, and Diceracardium
/ marl and fine siltstone bands. The shale Member
himalayense.
contains a rich foraminiferal assemblage like
11
Globotruncana gansseri dicarinata, G.stuarti Oligocene - Lower Miocene

stuartiformis, G. tricarinata, Textularia sp.. It is From the Dagshai to Kasauli the lithological
considered to be a Campanian to Maastrichtian age. contact is normal and transitional. The rocks of the
Kasauli Formation(=Upper Dharamshala Formation)
CENOZOIC are hard, grey and green, compact, massive sandstone
with minor proportion of grey to purple claystone with
Palaeocene - Eocene - Oligocene subordinate shale. The sandstone is coarse,
In Lesser Himalayan Tectogen, Kakra Formation micaceous and at times feldspathic with garnet as
and Subathu Formation represent the Palaeocene - the common heavy mineral. The fossils include plant
Ecocene sedimentary sequence, mostly occurring as remains (Sabal major, S.microphylla, Mesua tertiara,
outliers over diverse pre-Palaeogene formations viz. Dalbergia daghotaensis, Cassia dayalii, Carpolithus
Mandi Darla Volcanics, Shali Group, Deoban Group, spp.,) Lamellibranch (Unio). Kasauli flora indicate
Simla Group, Blaini Formation, Krol Group and Tal moist to dry tropical forest environment. Based on
Group. W hereas, Dagshai Formation (= Lower Unio and Palm leaves an Early Miocene age has been
Dharamshala Formation), has been assigned Late assigned to Kasauli Formation.
Eocene to Oligocene age. Middle Miocene Middle Pleistocene
The Kakra Formation comprises a basal pisolitic This period is represented by the rocks of Siwalik
laterite, followed by a sequence of quartzarenite, Supergroup, extending from Potwar basin in NW to
variegated shales and massive to thin bedded the foothills of Arunachal Pradesh in SE. The Siwalik
limestone. It has been assigned a Thanetian to Early Supergroup is divisible into three groups viz. Lower,
Ypresian age on the basis of its fossil content. Middle and Upper on the basis of lithostratigraphy.
Important fossils recorded are Ranikothalia, Rotalia The Lower Siwalik Group consists essentially of
trochidiformis, Daviesina sp. Fish Galeocerda a sandstone - clay alternation and has yielded a rich
latidens, Dasyatis sp., Myliobatis sp., and several mammalian fauna which includes Amphicyon sp.,
species of Pycondus. The fauna suggests an open Conophyus sp., Telmatodon sp., Hipparion sp.,
marine to shallow marine brackish water basinal Giraffoid genera., Crocodilus sp. and Cheloniceras sp.
condition.
The Middle Siwalik Group comprises a thick
Sedimentation in Eocene in Himachal Pradesh succession of coarse micaceous sandstone with
is represented by the Subathu Formation. In most interbeds of earthy clay. It normally succeeds the
part, the base of this formation is not exposed. This Lower Siwalik with a gradational contact. The vertebrate
formation is divisible into A and B members. Member fossils present in these rocks include Bramapithecus
A comprises green shale, foraminiferal limestone, sivalensis Lewis, Dryopithecus punjabicus Pilgrim,
oyster marls, quartzarenite, local carbonaceous shale, Ramapithecus brevirostris Lewis, Sivapithecus
and calcareous sandstone. Member B consists of sivalensis Lydekker, Sugrivapithecus salmontanus
red, green and blue mudstone, shale and quartzite. Lewis, Other fossils include Rodentia, Carnivora,
The Dagshai Formation (=Lower Dharamshala Perissodactyla, Artiodactyla, Proboscidea. Some of
Formation) overlies the Subathu Formation with a these include Hipparion theobaldi, Stegodon cautleyi,
gradational contact. The rocks of the Dagshai are Hippopotamus sp., Girrafokeryx sp.,
characterized by the presence of purple sandstone At the end of the Middle Siwalik period the strata
and clays with pink clay conglomerate and grey were uplifted and eroded before the deposition of Upper
sandstone. The Dagshai Formation is sparsely Siwalik commenced. The Upper Siwalik consists of
fossiliferous, consisting mainly of plant impressions, thick coarse sandstone, grit and conglomerate with
imperfectly preserved plant stems and trace fossils of local clay beds. The Upper Siwaliks have yielded
worm tracks and burrows. The important plant fossils following faunal assemblages. Stegodon ganesa,
are Poacites sp., Millettia asymmetrica, Bauhinia sp., Hypselphas sp., Equus cautleyi, Hexaprotodon sp.,
Ficus Kumarhattiensis, Ficus spp., Carpolithus sp. Rhinoceros platyrhinus, Hemibos triquetricornis,
12
Leptobos sp., and Hippopotamus sp., Crocodylus been classified into glacigenic, glacio-fluvial, lacustrine
biporcatus and Gavialis browni. The fresh water Siwalik and mass wasting deposits. The lacustrine deposits
rocks were deposited in the fore deep formed in front are bluish grey buff to yellowish white silt/mud with
of the Himalayan range. variable aerial extent with more than 200m thickness.
The carbonaceous materials embedded in lacustrine
Upper Pleistocene - Recent
deposits of Spiti have yielded radiocarbon age of 3929
Thick pile of fluvial, fluvio-glacial, glacial, lacustrine 34 Ybp to 5369 36 Ybp (Jamwal, 2008). Whereas,
and gravitational sediments exposed in Beas, the fluvio-lacustrine deposits of Giri River Basin have
Banganga, Soan-Sohan, Spiti, Giri Yamuna, Satluj yielded Quartz OSL age from 9.9 0.7 to 52.5 3 Ka
and Sunder Nagar valleys of Kangra, Mandi, Kulu, Spiti, (Jamwal and Sethi, 2010).
Shimla and Sirmaur districts represent post Siwalik
Quaternary deposits, which are divided into Older
Alluvium and Newer Alluvium formations. The Older GRANITOIDS
Alluvium Formation comprising multi cyclic sequence A number of granitic rocks ranging in age from
of brown to grey silt, clay with kankar and reddish Proterozoic to Tertiary are widely exposed in the
brown to grey micaeous sand with pebbles. In Poanta Himachal Pradesh. Based on their tectonic setting,
Saheb area of Sirmaur district, bordering Uttarakhand these can be broadly classified into three groups.
and Haryana states, the Older Alluvium is represented
by Dun Gravel. It is also exposed in NW-SE trending (i) Those occurring as window and forming the
Soan-Sohan valley of Una District and plains of Beas basement viz. Jeori -Wangtu and Bandal.
in Kangra District where the Older Alluvium Formation (ii) Those occurring along the thrust sheets
represents fluvio-lacustrine sediments comprising thick overseeing the above window (a) Associated with
multi-cyclic sequence of sand silt, clay, with Kulu Crystallines v iz. Baragaon and (b)
occasional pebble bed strewn with kankar. Newer Associated with the Jutogh Group of rocks viz.
Alluvium has been subdivided into Fan Alluvium, Chor, Kainchwa and Pabbar Granitoid Gneiss.
Terrace Alluvium and Channel Alluvium. The Fan
Alluvium comprising brownish grey clay, sand and gravel (iii) Those associated with the Vaikrita viz. Dalhousie,
sequence, lies disconformably over Older alluvium Dhauladhar, Mandi, Karsog, Rakcham, Jispa,
within a narrow zone immediately to the south of Ratilaman, Barashigri and Nako.
Siwalik hills. The Terrace Alluivum exposed as The geochronological dates of some of these
depositional terraces of all main rivers flowing through granites mostly carried out by various institutions (other
the state, is composed of cyclic sequence of grey, than GSI) are as follows;
micaceous, fine to coarse-grained sand, silt and clays.
The Channel Alluvium exposed as point bar/channel (i) Early Proterozoic Granitoids: These include
bars within the active channels is composed of grey, Bandal Granite (1840 70 Ma, Frank, 1975 and
fine to coarse micaceous sand and silts. 1905 72 Frank et al. 1977) and Wangtu Granite
2030 150 Ma Bhanot et al. 1976 and 2025 86
In Banganga valley of Kangra District, the fluvio Ma Kwatra et al. 1986.)
glacial and fluvial deposits represent a part of Newer
Alluvium Group and divisible into three formations, (ii) Middle Proterozoic Granitoids: These include
namely Bhangal Formation (=Fan Alluvium), Terrace Baragaon Gneisses (1430150 Ma, Bhanot et al.
Alluvium and Channel Alluvium. The Bhangal Formation 1979), younger phases in the Bandal Granite
comprises poorly sorted detritus of boulder, cobble, (1229 40 Ma, Bhanot et al. 1976), Chor Granite
and pebble set in sandy or silty matrix whereas Terrace (1000 Ma) and older phase in the Rohtang
Alluvium consists of multiple fill cyclic sequence of Gneissic Complex (1962 Ma), Powell et al.
medium to coarse-grained grey sand and grit with 1979).
pebbles of sandstone and lenses of clay. Channel (iii) Late Proterozoic - Lower Palaeozoic Granites:
Alluvium comprises grey, micaceous, fine to coarse, These include various intrusive phases in the
sand-silt and clay. There are extensive exposures of Rohtang Gneissic Complex viz. 612 100Ma
undifferentiated Quaternary sediments in the state (Bhanot et al. 1979) 581 9 Ma and 500 8
whose stratigraphy is yet to be established. The (Mehta 1977) and 476 50 Ma (Powell et al.
undifferentiated Quaternary deposits of Spiti valley have 1979); Mandi Granite (500 100 Ma, Jager et al.
13
1971 and 545 12 Ma, Mehta, 1977); Dalhousie aureole of Mandi Granite and 466 38 Ma for monazite
Granite (456 50 Ma, and 350 50 Ma, Bhanot from restite strongly confirm the intrusive age of the
et al. 1974), Jispa Granite 496 16 Ma Frank granite. The geochemical signatures of Bandal and
et al 1977; North of Manikaran Granite (467 45 Chor granitoids denote S type granite affinity and
Ma, Bhanot et al. 1979) and Rakcham Granite signature of Continental Collision Granite (CCG) and
(500 and 350 Ma). Continental Arc Granite (CAG) type granites (Jamwal
(iv) Tertiary Granite: The Nako Granite of Lower Spiti and Sethi 2011). The Nako Granite is massive, non-
Valley has been dated 108 17 Ma (Sharma foliated, biotite, tourmaline bearing leucogranite. It is
1987). However, it crosscuts the mega F2 folds the youngest granitoid intruded into Morang Formation
in the Vaikrita rocks and is interpreted to be of and has been dated 108 70 Ma.
Tertiary age.
Besides, Kwatra et al. (1986) provided a Rb-Sr BASIC VOLCANIC ROCKS
whole rock age of 530+40 Ma for the Chor Ganite. Basic volcanic rocks of different ages have been
Singh (1993) derived an age of 910 +23 Ma by TIMS reported from several localities in Himachal Pradesh.
for the undeformed variant of the Chor Granite. Singh These can be broadly grouped as
et al. (2003) reported a SHRIMP U-Pb age of 823+5
Ma of zircon from the deformed Chor Granite. (a) Basic volcanic rocks associated with the Shali
(Mandi-Darla Volcanic), Larji and Deoban
Based on these available geochronological dates, Formations: Mandi-Darla Volcanics are
granites of Himachal Pradesh have been emplaced associated with Sundernagar Group and are
during four different geological periods. The Jeori contemporaneous lava flows interstratified with
Wangtu and Bandal granites (184070Ma) are the
quartzarenite, slate and phyllite. The volcanics
oldest granites belonging to Palaeoproterozoic age
are lavas of basaltic composition and are greenish
followed by Mesoproterozoic Granitoids viz. Baragaon
and greyish green. Three main types of lavas
Gneisses (1430 150 Ma), Bandal Granite, Chor and
can be recognized; (1) massive non-vesicular (2)
Kainchwa Granite and Rohtang Gneissic Complex.
amygdaloidal and (3) metamorphosed.
The Dhauladhar-Mandi-Dalhousie, Rakcham,
Ratilaman, Jispa granites, an equivalent of Pan-African Metamorphosed lava predominates over the other
granites represent early Palaeozoic granites whereas, two types. The massive, non-vesicular lavas are
Nako Granite represents Tertiary. The Proterozoic generally fresh, greenish and well-jointed,
Granitoids represent a complex suite of rocks with containing epidote, which stands out prominently
varied texture and mineral composition and mostly on the weathered surface. The amygdaloidal lava
show well developed gneissic structure. The early is susceptible to weathering. The vesicles are
Paleaozoic granitoids are mostly coarse grained, filled with the zeolites, calcite and silica.
porphyritic and two mica granites. These granitoids (b) Basic volcanic rocks of Manikaran - Rampur area:
range in age from 450Ma to 550Ma. Mineralogical, It consists of massive traps, green basic schist,
petrochemical, and geochronological studies of Mandi, which at places contains quartzite bands. The
Kulu, Akpa and Chor granitoids indicate that these massive traps are vesicular and amygdaloidal in
granitiods fall into granite to granodiorite modal nature and have undergone extensive epidotization
composition with garnet as common mineral and and chloritization and have attained feeble
preponderance of muscovite over biotite. Chemical schistosity.
dating of monazite and magmatic allanite hosted in
these granitoids has yielded ages of 485 59 Ma for (c) The Panjal Traps of Chamba area: The occurrence
Kulu granite, 470 60 Ma for Akpa Granite, 500 41 of basic volcanic rocks underlying Salooni
Ma for Chor Granite and 514 49 Ma for Mandi granite Formation has been reported from Chamba
(Kundu and Sundraraman 2009). Chemical monazite District. These volcanic rocks have been
age of 486 66 Ma for the andalusite bearing contact correlated with the Panjal Traps.
14
Structure
The rocks of Himachal Pradesh have been 5. The Jaunsar and Inner Krol Belt Superficial
subjected to intense deformation, which, at many Nappe: Bounded by the synformally folded
places, has disrupted the original stratigraphic position Chail-Tons Thrust, it rests over the Simla and
of the various formations. Deoban belts.
1. Siwalik Autochthonous to Parautochthonous Belt: 6. Rampur Belt : The Rampur Group, folded into a
The Siwalik lithology is folded in open upright to complex antiform, rests over the Larji Formation
overturned folds. Along the southern limit, the and below the Kulu Crystallines along the thrusts.
Siwalik has, at places, moved over the alluvium It is exposed in Kulu-Rampur stretch as a window.
along a thrust, while along the northern boundary 7. Larji Belt : Highly folded Larji rocks are exposed
it is thrust over by the Lower Tertiary belt. The as a window within the Rampur window.
thrust between the Lower Tertiary and Siwalik is
known as the Main Boundary Fault. 8. The Crystalline Thrust Sheet of Kulu : In between
the Jaunsar Group (Superficial nappe) and the
2. Lower Tertiary Parautochthonous Belt with Jutogh Thrust Sheets, occurs the thrust sheet of
Subsidiary Belt of Shali : The Lower Tertiary belt the crystalline of Kulu. From NW to SE along its
is thrust over the Siwalik. On the northeastern western contact, it tectonically rests over the
side, the Krol, Simla and Shali rocks are thrust Siwalik, Subathu, Shali, Simla and Jaunsar
over the Lower Tertiary belt. groups and along its eastern contact over the
Along the trace of the Main Boundary Fault, Rampur Group and Larji Group of rocks.
between Khadli and Sataun, this also occurs as Southeast of Kadiali, this thrust sheet is
a liner belt of the Shali in the form of a tectonically tectonically overlapped by the Jutogh Thrust
truncated anticline. Sheet.
3. The Simla Group Belt : Folded in a major synform 9. Jutogh Thrust Sheet : The Jutogh Thrust Sheet
and an antiform, it occurs as a superficial nappe rests along the folded Jutogh Thrust over the Blaini
over the Shali belt. The Lower Tertiary sediments Formation, Simla Group, Jaunsar Group and Kulu
have been involved in a complicated folding in the Group. In the Simla area it rests over the Jaunsar
Bakhalag-Bugher area. Group as a klippe
4. The Outer Krol Belt Superficial Nappe : Bounded As the higher and metamorphic rocks occupy the
physical top, the structure of the Jutogh (Pilgrim
by the Krol-Giri synformally folded thrusts, rocks
and W est 1928) was interpreted as major
of the Blaini, Infra-Krol, Krol and Subathu occur
recumbent anticline whose normal limbs have
as superficial nappe over the isotropic zones of
been eroded.
the Lower Tertiary and Simla Group. A major fault
at Kandaghat dislocates the Giri Thrust and brings 10. Vaikrita Thrust Sheet : The presence of kyanite
the Simla Group of rocks to rest over the Infra and sillimanite at the base of the Vaikrita
Krol. The Subathu rocks, exposed as window sequence marks the Vaikrita Thrust. From the
within the Infra Krol near Solan, are cited as Satluj Valley it skirts around the northern limit of
evidence in favour of allochthonous nature of the the Rampur-Larji Window. Towards Karsog, folded
Krol Belt. into a synform, it swings towards north and
15
possibly links up with the Panjal Thrust. The 3. Development of F2 cross folds with selective
Chamba, Manjir, Katarigali, Salooni and Spiti development of crude S3 fracture planes.
Basin rocks rest above the Vaikrita rocks. 4. Development of post-folding high angle dislocation
Four principal deformations in the Kulu Crystalline planes.
have been identified in the rocks of the Himachal Evidences of Holocene tectonic activity are known
Pradesh, viz. from various parts. This activity in the Trans-
1. Thrusting and development of S1 foliation and F1 Himalaya of Lahaul and Spiti has affected the river
appressed folds. courses and created lakes. In the Lesser
Himalaya the tectonic activity is responsible for
2. Selective development of the S2 plane and F2 translating the Siwaliks along a thrust over the
upright folds. alluvium.
16
Geo-environment
Due to difference in relief, geological and tectonic and water bodies, 25.76% is covered under pasture
set up and weathering processes, Himachal Pradesh and grazing land, culturable waste land amount to
exhibits unique topography encompassing different 2.21%.and rest is under barren/rocky and water bodies.
landforms of diverse origins and magnitudes. These As the state falls under unique agro-climatic region of
landforms with appropriate climatic conditions and the country, bulk of the area under agricultural land is
drainage network have developed varied thickness of being used both for agricultural and horticultural
soil horizons. Availability of good soil and water has activities making the state the largest producer of apple
controlled human settlements, forest growth, in the country.
agricultural activity, and land use pattern.
Environmental hazard: Due to varied topography,
Climate: There is a great variation in the climatic relief and climatic conditions with intervention of
conditions of Himachal Pradesh due to extreme anthropogenic activities, a number of environmental
variations in elevation. The climate varies from hot and problems in form of hazards have arisen in the state.
sub-humid tropical in the southern tracts to cold, alpine Some of these problems are actively operative and
and freezing in the northern and eastern mountain others are potential in nature. Important natural and
ranges with greater elevation. Broadly the state anthropogenic hazards in the state are described below.
experiences three marked seasons; hot weather
Soil erosion: Soil erosion/mass wasting is a
season, cold weather season and rainy season.
widespread phenomenon and most common
Evaporation generally exceeds rainfall over a period of
environmental hazard. Its topography, poor physical
six months during October to December and April to
characters of soils, climatic condition and
mid June. Summer lasts from mid April till the end of
anthropogenic intervention are the main causes for soil
June and most parts become very hot (except in alpine
erosion/mass wasting. Excessive frost weathering/
zone which experience mild summer) with average
scree-talus menace is prevalent in high altitude tribal
temperature ranging from 28C (82 F) to 32C (90 F).
ares of Kinnaur, Lahaul and Sipiti and Chamba districts.
July to September is marked by rainy season when
monsoon is vigorous in the state. Winter lasts from Landslide: Landslide is the main environmental hazard
late November till mid-March when temperature of entire Kinnaur and Kullu districts, Lahaul division
plummets sub zero. The average rainfall in Himachal of Lahaul and Spiti district, tribal areas of Chamba
Pradesh is 1,111 mm, varying from 450mm in Lahaul district and parts/sections of Kangra, Mandi, Shimla
and Spiti to over 3,400mm in Dharamshala, the and Sirmaur districts of the state.
headquarters of Kangra District. Precipitation declines Seismic hazard: some major earthquakes that took
from west to the east, and south to the north. Winter place during last one century have affected the state.
precipitation occurs as snow at elevations above The State falls under Zone IV and V of Macro Level
1800m. An average of three meters of snow is Seismic Zones of India. These earthquakes include
experienced between December and March. Kangra (M=8) 1905, Sundernagar (M=7.5) 1906, Mandi
Landuse pattern: As per the statistical outline HP (M=5.5) 1930, Chamba (M= 6.5, 6.2 and 5.5) 1945,
2007, bulk area (62.51%) of the Himachal Pradesh is 1947 and 1950; Kinnaur 1975 (Magnitude 6.2) and
under wasteland and water bodies. Only 22.49% is Dharamshala (M=5) 1978, (M=5.7) 1986. Barring
covered under forestland and 7% under agricultural Kangra-Chamba belt, which forms a part of active
land whereas, the built-up land constitutes 7.97% of seismic Zone V, the entire state falls in Zone IV
the total area of the state. Out of the total waste land indicating moderately prone to seismic hazard.
17
Snow avalanche: Lahaul and Spiti District and parts of instability of slopes triggering mass movements,
Kinnaur and Chamba districts and Marhi-Rohtang pass excessive removal and active erosion of soils,
section of Kullu district are prone to snow avalanche. disruption of water regimes, increase in rate of run
and removal of vegetative cover. The discernible
Flash flood/cloud burst/out wash melt water surge:
anthropogenic hazards which are sponsible for the
Parts of Satluj Valley of Kinnaur and Shimla Districts,
degradation of the environment in the state are
parts of Pabbar valley, Shimla District, Beas valley of
quarrying and mining of construction material in Kangra,
Kullu District and Spiti blockof Lahaul and Spiti District
Una, Kulu and Shimla Districts; deforestation and
of the state are prone to either flash flood /cloud burst
encroachment to the forest land in Shimla, Kinnaur,
and or out wash melt water surges. Water scarcity,
Solan, Sirmaur, Chamba and Kulu Districts; hydro
water toxicity, and water logging are the other geo-
electric projects in Kinnaur and Mandi Districts;
hazards of the state.
industry and industrial effluents in industrial town ships
Anthropogenic hazard: Owing to the ongoing of Mehatpur(Una), Baddi, Parwanu and Nalagarh
developmental activities, laying of communication (Solan); brick kilns in Una District; tourist inflow and
network, and expansion of inhabitation due to garbage disposal in tourist places of Kullu, Shimla
population exodus, the anthropogenic hazards have and Kangra Districts and laying of communication
resulted in aggravating natural hazards resulting in network in entire state.
18
Natural Resources
The state of Himachal Pradesh with numerous The northern and southern veins are 20m x 0.20m
glaciers, a large network of perennial streams/rivers, and 15m x0.15m respectively in size. A 20m long
extensive vegetative cover has following natural and 2m wide lens of quartz-baryte is exposed
resources. Nearly the entire area of Himachal Pradesh just 30m northeast of these veins. Pinkish
has been covered by systematic geological mapping rosettes upto 2 cm in diameter and made up of
with the reported occurrence of a number of non- radiating lath like baryte crystals are noticed in
metallic, metallic and other minerals. A variety of the adjoining fracture planes. The chemical
minerals are known from the state but for limestone/ analysis of a representative sample has given
dolomite, baryte and gypsum, all others are of 97.70% BaSO4 which as per I.S.I. specifications
academic significance. The following is the list of conform to Grade I quality for chemical industry.
mineral occurrences in the state. The probable reserves are of the order of 1425
tonnes.
ASBESTOS (ii) One metre thick vein of massive snow white
Kangra District barytes has been reported in the purple quartzite
Small occurrence of asbestos of uneconomic of Yamrang La Formation (Thango Formation: east
nature occurs in a nala south east of Kami village of Gekod Thach (31 3700:78 4745). The
(3212: 7807). exposed extension is over 8m.
Mandi District Lahaul and Spiti District
The highly weathered basaltic rocks of Darla Lenses and bands of baryte in the purple quartzite
Volcanics exposed along the right bank of a small and shale have been reported from area NW of
nala flowing between Ardhi and Badsar contain very Tarikhango pass.
thin fibres of asbestos. Shimla District
Shimla District Thin veins of barite are found associated with
Chrysotile asbestos was observed by Captain limestone at Naldera near Shimla.
Palmer in association with a dolerite dyke on the Shali Sirmaur District
ridge, north of Shimla. The fibres reach upto a length The baryte occurs as epigenetic veins in Krol E
of 3.5 cm. Formation of the Krol Group at Kanti (3003 45:
773845), Tatyana (303815: 773825) Batewari
BARYTE (304000: 773615) and Kheel (303630:773730).
At Kanti, Tatyana and Kheel baryte occurs in the
Kinnaur District
cherty limestone at the contact of Krol D & E, whereas
(i) Snow white, massive to cryptocrystalline baryte at Batewari, it occurs near the Krol- Tal contact.
occurs as epigenetic hydrothermal veins and
quartz-baryte lenses in the light grey quartzite of The Kanti baryte deposit is the largest and was
Tiwari Formation near Arsomang (311838: estimated to have reserves of 15,000 tonnes. Chemical
784300), Alingdar (312630: 783830) and analysis indicates 99% BaSO4. The occurrences
Mangla Thach. Near Arsomang, three such veins around Tatyana consist of several small, thin veins
are noticed, the central, being the largest, is over with probable reserves of 300 tonnes of baryte. One
60 m long and has an average width of 40cm. sample has analysed 96.56% BaSO4.
19
At Kheel the baryte vein is 9m long with a width BERYL

of 2.80m. One sample has analysed 55.57% BaSO4.
Chamba District
The estimated reserves upto 3m depths are of the order
of 300 tonnes. The baryte occurrence at Batewari is (i) Beryl bearing pegmatites have been located in
reported as vem in Kundari nala, which is about 8m Kilar Gneiss around Haksu bridge (3305: 7623).
long and 1m thick. One sample has analysed 98.99% (ii) Pegmatite bodies with beryl have been found
BaSO4. The probable reserves are of the order of 100 within gneisses of Kilar Formation. The pale yellow
tonnes. Most of the baryte deposits in Sirmaur District to light bluish-green beryl occurs at about 1km
have been fully exploited.
east of Dehda nala bridge (330510: 762230)
Solan District and about 1.5 km south of Jules (330535:
Lenticular bands of baryte have also been reported 76 2315). The visual estimate of beryl in
near Subathu (3058: 7659) Haripur (3101: 7659) pegmatite is less than 0.5%.
and Sair (3105; 7703). Kinnaur District
(i) Pale blue beryl has been reported from the Wangtu
BAUXITE bridge (31 32: 78 15) and for some distance up
Shimla District the Satluj and Shipki Pass (3149: 7845).
(i) Occurrence of boehmite bauxite has been (ii) Beryl associated with pegmatite has been
reported about one kilometre northeast of village reported from near Riuni village (78 0420:
Deharu (3049: 7739). The bauxite forms basal 310416) and Nalgan Ghatti (311920: 781215)
part of the Subathu Formation (Eocene). It occurs
at a number of places as localised pockets, which (iii) Sporadic, bluish transluscent hexagonal crystals
range in thickness from 1m to 3m but generally of beryl are noticed in the pegmatites, intrusive
do not extend laterally beyond 10m. The bauxite into the schistose rocks of the Vaikrita Group in
is earthy pale-grey and brownish and is Morang (313600: 782630) Tirung (313430 :
characterised by well-developed pisolitic texture. 782700) area.
Chemical analysis indicated the presence of A2O3 (iv) Greenish blue beryl is found in the pegmatite along
55.10% SiO2 24.97%, Fe2O3 1.20% TiO2 5%.
its contact with the country rocks near Ribba
(ii) In Chapla area (3103: 7701), the bauxite deposit (313515: 78 2630) and near the confluence of
occurs mostly as lateritised rocks at the base of Kashanj Khad and Satluj River.
the Kakra Formation. Thickness and length of
(v) Small crystals of beryl within pegmatite veins
the zones vary from 1m to 5m and 1-5 km
traversing the Rakcham Granite have been
respectively. The deposit is low in alumina and
high in silica content. reported from the area between Pangi (3136:
7821) and Akpa (313500: 782245).
Sirmaur District
Kulu District
In Bench area (3047: 7737), bauxite occurs in
isolated patches at the base of Kakra and Subathu (i) Beryl bearing pegmatites intrusive into schist and
Foramtions. The deposit contains low alumina and high granites have been reported from Sara Umga
silica.During early ninrth century a specimen of high Thach (3210: 77 29) and northeast of Pando
quality bauxite at Nahan (3033: 7716) was examined Seo Thach (315630: 774030).
by Crookshank. (ii) Sporadically beryl is found associated with
Solan District pegmatites in Mantalai (315145: 774715) area
In Deothal area (30o51: 7710), bauxite occurs and in Tanang Khol (3157: 7033)
as pisolitic ore having a thickness of 1-5m and trceable (iii) Crystals of beryl measuring upto 8cm in length
for about 1.5 km. are found associated with the pegmatites at Munni
20
Thach (315945: : 773945) and Piangnirum 771200), Chichot (313300: 770100), Garaich
Thach (321430: 771830). (312430: 771445), Negi Nal (312600: 771100),
Bashaich (312615: 771330), Phaish (312700:
CLAY 77 0515), Tarai (31 3509:76 5956), Dopha
(31 3133:77 0122), Nid (31 3220:77 0100),
Kangra District Dangthar (313237:77 0615), Seri (313655:
(i) Yellow coloured clay has been reported from 3km 770006), Raipri (313734:77 0030), Burahata
west of Shahpur (3213: 76 12). (313609: 770159), Balhari (313903:77o1730),
Tarapur (31 3800:76 5937), Kohlu, Dalikar
(ii) Light grey to whitish grey clay bands varying in
((31 3738:770100), and Rackchui(31 3905:
thickness from 0.5-3m and having 90% clay
765943),
content has been reported from Middle and Upper
Siwaliks, at Khajan (321930: 755405), Indpur The clay pockets in the above areas range in length
(32 0930: 75 4400), Paliana (32 0900: from 10220m, the clay pocket at Phaish extends for
755430) Kothar, (320434: 755210) and Hatli 1km. The width of the clay pockets varies from 1-
(320505: 755050) in Nurpur Tehsil. 1045m.
Reserves of white clay of Kothar area are of the Physical tests on the clay samples from Garaich
order of 15,000 tonnes. The clay is composed of and Negi Nal have revealed that the clay is suitable for
montmorillonite, kaolin, quartz, carbonate and Fe- the manufacture of stoneware.
oxide.
The cumulative reserves of clay pockets at
Kinnaur District Karsog, Chichot Batala Beli Garaich, Negi Nal,
China clay occurs as alteration product of granite, Bashaich and Phaish have been estimated at 1,05,336
gneiss and pegmatite, east of Lipa (3139: 7824). tonnes. The tentative reserves of the clay pockets at
Lacustrine clays occur at Shalkar, Chango and Ganfa Tarai, Dopha and Nid are of the order of 5, 14, 404, 17,
along the Spiti River. 172, 02 and 17,714.02 tonnes, respectively.
Kulu District The clay from all the aforementioned pockets is

used by the local inhabitants for white washing and
China clay occurrence has been reported from
plastering of their houses.
near Bathua (3128: 7732) which is locally used for
white washing. Shimla District
Lahaul & Spiti District Pottery clays resulting from the decompositin of
limestone associated with carbonaceous slates occur
Two lacustrine clay pockets have been reported
on the spurs of the hills. running north of Simla (3108;
at Kioto (3256: 7755) and Atargoo (3207: 7810).
7710). They have been used for the manufacture of
The first one is about 500m in length with a maximum
bricks, tiles and coarse pottery.
width of 80m while the latter one is 250m in length
with a maximum thickness of 15m. Sirmaur District
Mandi District Brick clay of fluvial origin occurs at and around
Sirmur Tal (303230: 77 3920), 16km north of Paonta
Small irregular pockets and lenses of clay are
Sahib. Similar clay also occurs along the Nimba-ka-
found within the weathered muscovite granite,
Khala. The occurrence extends for 500m with an
tourmaline muscovite granite, porphyritic granite and
average width of 80m. The average thickness is 3.38m
pegmatite of Mandi Karsog Granite Complex at Mohi
with an overburden, 1.2m thick.
(3135: 76o5520), Seri Chak (310654: 765545),
Seul (31 4036:76 o 5536), Saul Khad Other occurrences of this type of clay are at Rati
(314028:765327), Dhalar (313524: 765530), Kharak (30 3100: 77 3210) Kalidhang
Batala Beli (311550: 771320), Karsog (312300: (303630:773930). At Rati Kharak the clay occurs
21
in an area, 480m in length and 120m in width, having 180cm and 90cm thick could be traced for a distance
a thickness of 2m. In Kalidhang area, the clay occurs of about 90m.
on both sides of Khasuda Ka Khala. The deposit is
Small discontinuous patches of coal outcrops are
540m in length and 180m in width. Its thickness varies
noted near Kaphai (3132: 7651). An outcrop of coal
from 20m to 30m. The deposit contains clay bands of
is seen on the right bank of a small stream about
varying colours, which are interlayered with bands of
600m southeast of Arthi (3132: 7652). The coal is
gravel, pebbles and sandy loamy soil. The varved
sheared and stained dull greyish yellow, rusty on the
nature of the clay deposit indicates that the clay is of
surface.
lacustrine origin. The reserves of the clay around
Kalidhang are about 2.63 million tonnes upto a depth
of 20m. COPPER
A few clay pockets occurring within the weathered Chamba District
rocks of Chor Granite Complex have been reported at (i) Malachite encrustations are reported in the
Kanda (30 5030: 77 2415), Roundi (30 4930: Manchhap nala (3100: 762530) wooden bridge
77o2700) Kotiyan (304908:77 2715) and Gudag, and within vein quartz at Chue Padder (325400:
(304630:772915). The clay is sticky when wet and 762800).
powdery when dry. The length, width and thickness Kinnaur District
of these pockets vary from 3 to 22m, 0.5 2m and 0.5
(i) Malachite encrustations are reported in the
5m respectively.
Manchhap nala (312530: 7833 30) section.
An occurrence of China clay is known from one
(ii) Few specks of pyrite and chalcopyrite with
kilometre north of Rajpur (3035: 77 44).
malachite stains have been noted in quartz veins
near Mangsula (312230: 783030). These veins
COAL are more frequent at the contact of Granite and
Kanga District Batal Formation.
Coal occurs near Dera Gopipur (3153: 7683) in (iii) A few malachite stains have been noticed in the
the Pinjor sand rock of the Upper Siwalik Group and phyllite of the Batal Formatiion near Lippa (31
in the Nahan Sandstone. The coal occurrence from 39: 76 38 15).
this locality was based on two very small lenticular
(iv) Two small old workings for copper are observed
pockets and a few stringers of lignite in the
near Rangbar (3249: 7824) in the Ropa valley.
northeastern cliff off Beas River. The first pocket
It consists mainly of malachite and azurite
contains a few lenticular remains of carbonised weed.
coatings along the joint planes and fissures of
The thickness of second occurrence varies from 1cm
banded quartzite in the Kunzam La Formation.
to 7cm with maximum length of about 30 cm.
An old working of copper is reported near
Mandi District
Sangnam (31 47: 78 28). Chemical analysis
A carbonaceous coal horizon is traceable for shows 550 ppm Cu values.
about 90m near Mansai (3134: 7651). There is
another 91cm thick seam traceable for 45m, 750m to (v) Sparsely disseminated pyrite occurs in quartzite
the south of the earlier one. and phyllite north east of Sangnam. In a nala
north of Giabong, malachite and azurite stains
A coal seam near Dehar (3125: 7649) crops are seen in phyllite.
out in and near the steep right bank of Satluj River
about 280m upstream of the suspension bridge. The Kulu District
carbonaceous horizon is interbedded with limestone (i) Malachite sains and sparse disseminations of
with almost vertical dips. Two carbonaceous seams, chalcopyrite have been reported in the massive
22
quartzite belonging to Bhallan Formation of the south is about 4.5 km. From the available information
Rampur Group at Seond (3154: 7713). The the mineralised zone of about 12m width and grade of
copper values vary from 0.1% to 0.22%. The the order of 1% is anticipated.
mineralisation is restricted to very limited area of (v) In Sainj Valley, a zone containing malachite stains
about 60m on a road cutting. and very sparse dissemination of chalcopyrite
(ii) Stains of malachite are observed in quartz veins occurs in a massive quartzite about six km form
traversing chloritized schist near Shatnala bridge. Larji. This zone occurs in strike continuity of the
Sample from Shatgar (3158: 7712) gave copper Garsha mineralisation.
value as 1.21%. The mineralisation comprises Lahaul & Spiti District
stains of malachite with spare dissemination of Malachite staining is occasionally noticed in
chalcopyrite and pyrite. association with quartz veins in Chandra Tal (3239:
(iii) In Maol (Mahul) (31 55: 77 07) area, the 7737) and Sarchhu (324230: 7732) areas.
mineralized zone has an average width of 0.50m Copper mineralisation in the form of chalcopyrite,
and a strike length of about 5m. Copper values malachite and azurite is seen along brecciated zones
near village Bihachang in Maol khad vary from and within quartz veins associated with limestone of
0.55% to 0.90%. One sample has analysed 2.9% the Kunzam La Formation in the area between Chandra
lead, 0.35% zinc and 30 ppm silver. Tal and Bara lacha pass (32 44: 77 26).
(iv) In Garsha Valley, i.e., the area lying between Sirmaur District
Kurla Nal in the north and the Sainj khad in the At Sataun (3133: 7738), copper mineralisation
south, and to the east of Beas River, the copper occurs in the carbonaceous shale and quartzite of the
mineralisation is manifested by numerous Blaini Formation. The mineralisation zone is 25m wide
surfaces showing stains and encrustations of along a road section and consists of stringers and
malachite and azurite, covering an area of about disseminations of pyrite and chalcopyrite. Copper
9km x 6km. Besides, a number of old workings values range from 01.13% to 4.40%. One zone has
bear testimony to the fact that copper mining analysed 2.27% Cu along 1.30 (m true) width.
activity was extensive in the past. Amongst the
Solan District
old workings the prominent are Naraul (314940:
77 1345) G obha (31 50: 77 15) Lalgi An old copper mine exists near Solan (3055:

(3149:7714), Kalpna (3150:7715), Danala 77 07).
(3148:7715), Sib (31 42: 7701) Shallash
(3148: 7728) and Dudhu (3148: 7715). The FLOURSPAR
mineralisation generally occurs as
Kinnaur District
disseminations, specks and thin stringers of
Rare occurrence of light green crystals of flourspar
chalcopyrite, covellite and pyrite. The general
has been reported in the pegmatite veins at Wangtu
trend of mineralisatin is NW-SE. The host rock
Bridge (3122: 7804).
for mineralisation is calcareous quartzite and
conglomeratic quartzite. Sirmaur District
The old working at Lalgi is quite extensive with A few flourspar veins have been located in the
wide stopes and covers a strike length of 55m. At Krol E Formation of the Krol Group.
places Cobalt bloom is found in the oxidized portions
of this mine. Encouraging copper and cobalt values GARNET
have been obtained from this working. Kulu District
The effective strike length of promising mineralized (i) Small garnet crystals have been reported to occur
zones between Gobha in the north and Danala in the in the Sarkani (3143: 7716) area.
23
(ii) Garnet crystals in the gneiss and schist have been a depth of 2m have been estimated at 8, 42,570 tonnes.
reported around Sara Umga Glacier (3210: The inferred reserves for an extra depth of 3m are of
77 31). the order of 12, 63,854 tonnes. The glass sand of the
above deposits can be used for manufacture of ordinary
Sirmaur District
glass.
Large size crystals of garnet, often transluscent,
have profusely developed around the Chaur area. In addition the white quartzite belonging to
Rampur Group exposed in Sunda (77?3852;31
2636) and Darshai (774100; 312730) area
GLASS SAND
of Shimla District with an aerial extent of 1.5 sq km
(Quartzite pebbles/cobbles/boulders) and 2 sq km respectively have yielded more than 95%
Bilaspur District silica. These quartzite deposits have been assessed
for their suitability for glass sand and allied purposes.
Soft white quartzite near Sirha (3121: 7647)
Aruali (3118: 76 47), Banda (3119: 7647) and Solag
(3121: 7650) might be suitable for glass industry. GOLD
Kangra District Bilaspur District
Soft quartzite boulders, which yield good glass Placer gold is recorded from the nala sands
sand on crushing, occur near Barhwain (3148: 7608) towards the north east of Ghamarwin (3127: 7642),
and on the Bastram ridge. Smaller deposits also occur the source being the boulder beds of Siwalik.
in the Khads near Bhadroa (3215: 75 41). Kangra District
Una District Gold washing in the Beas River at Rai (3210:

Glass sand deposits in the form of quartzite 75 55) and downstream has been recorded by Abbot.
pebbles and cobbles in the gravel bed occur along the The yield is said to be at the rate of about 73 grains to
upper stretch of Jaijon-di-Khad. The pebbles and the cubic yard.
cobbles of the size of 5- 15cm predominate in the Kinnaur District
area. The analytical results have indicated that the
Small quantities of gold are obtained from the
pure white quartzite pebbles and boulders (Grade A)
sand bars along the Satluj River between Morang
contain on an average 97.44% SiO2 and 0.22% Fe2O3
(3236: 7828) and Wangtu (3132: 7804)
and those with greenish and greyish tinge (Grade B)
contains 95.7% SiO2 and 0.59% Fe2O3. Kulu District
Total reserves of Grade A in three blocks have Calvert mentions gold washing at Samsi (3253:

been estimated at 59,309 tonnes while the total 77 12) in the river sands of Beas River.
reserves of Grade B in these blocks are of the order Mandi District
of 39,019 tonnes. Colebrook reported small quantities of gold in the

In Bathri village (31 1830: 76 1730), Kum Khad bed of Satluj River at Jauri (3119: 7702). Poor
a gravel bed containing glass sand yielding quartzite concentration of gold has been found in placers
pebbles, cobbles and boulders of Grade A, B and between Hukkal (3146: 7644) and Dharampur (3148:
C is exposed along the Garhshankar-Nangal road. 76 46). Recent work carried out in Dharampur-
The analytical results indicate 98.89%, 98.40% Sarkaghat area has revealed the presence of Au
98.78% SiO2 in quartzite fragments of grade, A, B content < 6 ppb to < 20 ppb in stream sediments and
and C, respectively. The Fe2O3 values in the quartzite < 6 ppb to 100 ppb in bedrock.
fragments of these grades are 0.068% 0.264% and Sirmaur District
0.92%, respectively.
Placer gold has been reported from the Siwalik
The total reserves (of Grade A, B & C) down to rocks in different parts of this district. The gold content
24
varies from< 20 ppb to 160 ppb, both in the stream cement industry. Small deposit of gypsum of inferior
sediments as well as bedrock. quality occurs at about 1.5 km southwest of Shilorna
(3036: 7737).
GYPSUM Solan District
Kinnaur District Gypsum occurs in Eocene rocks about 3km
Large deposits of gypsum occur associated with southeast of Subathu (3058: 7659). Pockets of
the Lipak Formation between Liwa Thach (3155: gypsum occur in the area and in the nalas draining
7855) and Kapusa (3204: 7834) especially in the into Kuthar River from the western ridge about 5km
Yulang Valley, North of Chango (3159: 7836) and in southwest of Subathu.
the Yangthang (3153: 7837) area. A small area The purple indurated clay of Dagshai near
around Shalkar (3200: 7834) was covered by detailed Dabrughat contains pockets of gypsum along the
mapping and reserves of 1.25 million tonnes were Bhaklag (3000: 7657) Dhondhan (3014: 7554)
inferred upto 25m down depth extension. The total in road.
situ reserves in this belt, however, may be over 100
million tonnes. Small occurrences of gypsum are
known from similar beds exposed near Tari-Khango IRON
Pass. The gypsum is mostly of alabaster type soft, Kangra District
white, granular, with common large pockets of Iron ores have been worked in the neighbourhood
anhydrite and small selenite zones. It is considered of Dharamshala (3214: 76 23). These occur as
to be of evaporitic origin. magnetite particles disseminated in the talcose schist
Thin bands of white granular gypsum associated and require concentration by washing before being
with the maroon shales of Yamaranjha Formation occur smelted. Iron-ore was reported to occur near Bir (32
near Bayulkhona Thach (3124: 7840). 03: 76 47) and Kohad (32o 05: 7652).
Lahaul & Spiti District Kinnaur District
Gypsum associated with the Lipak Formation Magnetite is reported from Mangru La (3122:
occurs on the right bank of Spiti River, east of Losar 7830). Small scale smelting had also been carried
(3225: 7745) along the right bank between Hurling out. The magnetite occurs as profuse disseminations
(3204: 7831) and Sumdo (3204: 7836), in Gyundi as octahedral crystals in volcanogenic sediments,
Valley (3216: 7750) and at Dhuma Dangse (3225: which show very low-grade metamorphism and are
7740). The occurrence between Hurling and Sumdo grouped with the Kunzam La Formation.
is quite extensive. Anhydrite and selenite are locally
Kulu District
associated with gypsum in this stretch.
Bands of haematite-quartzite about three to six
Elongated crystals of transluscent gypsum are centimetres thick and about two metres long have been
present in the Spiti Formation, east of Lamayuru reported from Serajpet Resever Forest and north of
(325230: 774415). Roshal (3202: 7718) village. Old workings of iron
Sirmaur District ore are reported from Gargi (32 02: 77 20) and south
Gypsum occurs as thin bands and lenses in the of Garahan (31 58: 77 20).
red and green shales as well as in the dolomitic Lahaul & Spiti District
limestone of Krol B Formation in Bharii (3033: 7745) Hayden (1904) recorded the occurrence of a band
and Korga (3035: 7745). The chemical analysis in of red haematite in the Thango Formation about 5km
Bharli has given CaSO 4 60% and above, in the south east of Muth (3157: 7700).
estimated reserves of 85,000 tonnnes and in Korga
CaSO4, 42% in the estimated reserves of 5, 56,000 Lenticular haematite quartzite occurrences in the
tonnes. The deposit is suitable for utilisation in the Thango Formation have been reported at Thango
25
(32 0230:77 5700) and Shitekar (32 2630: KYANITE

774030). The main band at Thango is 1.5 -2.5m Kinnaur District
thick and extends for 130m along strike. The chemical
Kyanite blades measuring 8cm -15cm in length
analysis of a few samples indicate the presence of Cr
in kyanite-staurolite schist of Maldi Formation have
1000 ppm (in one sample), Ni 100ppm to 200ppm (in
been reported from Morang (3136 00: 782630) Tirung
two samples), Ba 200ppm to 500ppm (in all samples),
(313430: 78 2700) area.
Zr 100 to 300 ppm (in 3 samples), Ta, 1000ppm (in
two grab samples), W, 300 ppm (in two grab samples) Kulu District
and Ce 300 ppm (in two grab samples). (i) Kyanite has been reported in the rocks of Central
Gneiss and Schist Formation around Bershani
Mandi District
(3106: 7726) Khir Ganga Thach (3200: 7731)
Magnetite associated with hematite occurs in and Tanti Thach (3157: 7730).
schist and phyllite in a belt extending intermittently
(ii) Fairly long blades of kyanite are found in the schist
from Rama Bhet (31 35: 77 06) upto the vicinity of
and gneiss to the south of Tapru Thach (315800:
Sangalwaro (31 30: 77 13). Sparsely disseminated
77o 3230), 2km upstream of Ori Age Thach
magnetite and hematite occur around Jhungi (31 25:
(31 5715: 77 3300) in t he Tang Khol
77 06) in the phyllites.
(315700:7733 00), Chini Gohru Thach (31 58
Magnetite occurs as disseminated grains in 00: 773430) and in Bakar Kiara Khol (31 58
quartzite and as concentration in thin bands near Kohar 00: 77 32 30). The blades vary in length from
Khas (3206: 7648). The iron bearing quartzite has minute cystals to about 20cm. The occurrences
been traced from about 1.5km north of Baragoran are of sporadic nature.
(3205: 76 00) to Multhan (3103: 7605). (iii) Bluish translucent blades of kyanite associated
with gneiss are noticed in Bakerbihal Khol (3146
Shimla District
00: 7741 00) Bhagon Thach (31 58 00: 7736
Haematite is found as bands and lenses in the 30) Ratiruni Thach (320030: 774030) and
Rohru tehsil. Alternating bands of iron ore with biotite- several other places. The individual blades at
schist were encountered at Shil (3109: 7740). The times exceed 10cm in length.
bands are 2.5 cm thick. More important occurrences
(iv) Kyanite blades occur in quartz-mica schist of the
are distributed in the Banoti Valley around Narain
Central Gneiss Formation east of Khirganga
(3112: 7739) and Shekal (3111: 7739). Two old
Thach (315940: 773030) east of Kalga Thach
workings of haematite are located at Soom, south of
(3159 45: 7727 0) Bhalingach Thach (3159
Pujarli (311130: 7740). The old workings are within
00: 7729 00) and Tunda Bhuj Thach (315800:
the haematite quartzite band (Jutogh Group) measuring 773500)
about 50m x 10m.
Schistote xenoliths occurring in granite contain
Sirmaur District kyanite blades upto 5cm in length north of Ratiruni
Magnetite occurs as lenticles in quartzite of Thach and east of Mantalai. However, these
Jutogh Group at Kanhari (30o 47: 77 21). The deposit occurrences have no economic significance.
was worked for some time about a century back and Lahaul & Spiti District
used in a blast furnace at Nahan (3034: 7721).
Significant kyanite mineralisation associated with
Small pockets, lenses, veins and disseminations metasediments of the Batal Formation has been
of magnetite associated with some pyrite have also reported from the Thanpattan (3256 00: 7654 30)
been reported from lana Chetta (3047: 7722) in the area of Miyar Valley. The main zone rich in
Jutogh Group. mineralisation is 40m thick and traceable for over 1km.
26
LEAD Shimla District

Kinnaur District Lead in the form of vein occurs in schist and
gneiss of Jutogh Group at Darkoti (3107: 7736). Lead
(i) Specks of galena have also been noticed along
values vary form 0.73% to 12.00% at different localities.
thin quartz veins in the gneisses near Nalgan ghati
(3119 20: 7812 50). Lead ore is found in the form of some galena
pebbles of varying size at Tal (3110: 7653) in the
(ii) A few specks of galena are observed in a minor
Arki Tehsil. A ferruginous limestone band, north of Tal
shear zone exposed east of Alingdar (3126 30:
7838 30). has indicated 1.2% Zn and 0.29% Pb over an average
width of 7.5m.
Kulu District
Sirmaur District
(i) A few specks of galena have been observed in
the quartz veins a chlorite-schist at Sangthan (i) Massive lode of a minor deposit comprising
(3158: 7715). Lead values range from 100 to galena and sphalerite has been reported at Anyar
240 ppm. Three samples have analysed zinc (30o44: 77o44). The samples from old working
values varying from 200 to 470 ppm. have indicated lead 0.75% and zinc 0.21%.
Another sample gave 10% zinc content.
(ii) Minor disseminated specks of sulphide are
observed in quartzose phyllite east of Komand (ii) Strata-bound synsedimentary, polymetallic
(Mot Kandi) (3153: 7714). One sample on sulphide mineralisation occurs within an
chemical analysis has shown 400ppm lead. interbedded slate limestone sequence near the
DeobanShimla Group contact in Dathyari- (30
(iii) In Khanor Khad area near Manikaran (31 02: 77o 41 32: 77 45) Chamri (3043: 7744) Auri
27) the ore and gossan together yielded lead, (3042 03: 774440) area.
gold and copper. At Uchich (3101: 77o 23) the
lode is over 60cm in width and contains lead, gold Three mineralised lodes, 20cm to 150cm thick
and silver. ranging in length from 75m to 80m have been delineated
over a strike length of nearly 340m. The sulphide
(iv) At Chong (3177: 7711) the ore contains lead,
mineralisation mostly comprises marcasite with
and silver. A small stringer of galena associated
galena, sphalerite, pyrite and chalcopyrite. Anold
with quartz vein has also been reported from near
working exists in Chamri (3053: 7115) area.
Garona (3150: 77o14). Occurrences of lead ore
have also been reported from north/east of Behali Small lenses and veins of quartz with galena are
(3145: 77o15). observed in slate and phyllite exposed in the Amba
area (3038: 77o27). Large pebbles with rich galena
Lahaul & Spiti District
mineralisation are a common sight all along the Amba
The occurrence of galena has been noticed in Nala.
small quartz vein infiltrated along a fault plane in upper
Triassic limestone between Po (32 03: 78 23) and Small gossanised band measuring 4m x 1m
Dankhar (3205: 7816) section in the Spiti valley. occurs in sandstone and shale of Subathu Formation,
Galena associated with vein quartz occurs in the 1km east of Chapla (3058:7700) in Dabur God. Lead
quartzite of the Po Formation near Tabo. value varies from 0.9% to 0.38%. Old workings of
lead ore have been reported at Danheri (3100: 7700)
Specks of galena are associated with Muth
and Panuh (3050: 7708).
Quartzite in the Chandra Tal area. A 12cm thick E-W
trending quartz vein, intrusive within the quartzite of The Pb-Zn mineralization in Ambota area
the Tandi Formation contains galena in the form of (774130; 304600) is associated with dark grey
thin stringers and specks along the road section basal dolomitic limestone of Deoban Group overlying
between Tandi (3234: 7759) and Sissu (32 29: argillaceous-arenaceous sequence of Simla Group.
7758). The mineralization comprising sphalerite and
27
subordinate galena along with pyrite in the area occurs Chamba District
in the form of stringers, specks, disseminations, (i) Cement grade limestone has been recorded from
fracture-filled veins and veinlets along NW-SE and NW Broh, Shind and Dhundiara (3130: 7655). The
trending cross joints/shears. Three zones of limestone forms the upper most part of Kalhel
mineralization with strike length of 260m to 500m and Formation. Analytical result of a few chip samples
width of 10m to 37m have been established based on has revealed an average CaO 52.64% and MgO
drilling of three boreholes upto 95m depth. The 2.35%.
analytical results of first borehole have yielded Zn
(ii) Dolomite is associated with magnesite in Salooni
values ranging from 19ppm to 5% and two stray Pb
and Dunai Formation of this district.
values of 2.8% and 4.5%. The weighted average
calculated from first borehole for Zn mineralization in (iii) Dolomite bands ranging in thickness from 1m to
seven demarcated zones varies from 0.22% to 1.87% 3m have been found at Sidh Ka Dehra (3302
whereas in third borehole the weighted calculated 15: 762600). Tundru (3305 15: 762730)
average varies from 0.062% to 0.65%. Chinar Got (330615: 7629 30), Kuldhan Got
Solan District (334505: 762430) and Chabi Got (330845:
760845).
In Motipur Narag area, lead-zinc mineralization
is confined to fractured and brecciated limonitised (iv) Thin bands of marble associated with tremolite
quartzite of Sanjauli Formation of Simla Group along occur around Batwas (33 0515: 762745),
2.1 km NW-SE trending shear zone with 42m to 50m Pindru (380130: 76 2615) and Sarkund
width. Galena, sphalerite and pyrite occur as (330115 : 7624 00).
disseminates, fracture fillings along later stage quartz (v) Bands of dolomite ranging in thickness from 1-
veins within the brecciated quartzite. 2m with strike extension ranging from 50m to
100m have been found within Sidh Dehra
LIMESTONE AND DOLOMITE Formation at about 1km west of Adwar (33o0915
: 763030) and Garguri.
Bilaspur District
Large reserves of limestone (both dolomitic and Kangra Disrict
non-dolomitic) occur amongst the Pre tertiary rocks Cement grade limestone deposit is reported at
near Jamthal (3124: 7652) Aur or Gagal-Hill (3120 : Dharamkot (3215: 7619), about 3 km north of
76o 51), Chhabiawae (3123 : 7652) and Darobn Dharamshala (3213 : 7619). The deposit comprises
(3121 : 7651). The limestone is suitable for cement dark grey and pink limestones. The gross reserves of
manufacture. In Gagal-Burmana area, the reserves of easily quarriable limestone (cement grade) are of the
cement grade limestone have been estimated at 117.1 order of 17.6 million tonnes. The pink limestone
million tonnes. The Gagal limestone deposit contains contains on an average of 42.52% CaO and 2.04%
CaO 45.20% to 47.80% and MgO 0.91%. The Burmana MgO while the grey limestone contains an average of
limestone deposit contains CaO 47.62% and MgO 41.92% CaO.
1.47%.
An occurrence of calcareous tufa is recorded on
Occurrence of dolomite has been reported from a the southwestern flank of the Ramgarh ridge, east of
locality 1.5km west of Lohrda (3115: 7600) and 800m Samlarah (3141: 76 19). Calcareous tufa has also
east of Bhajun (3114: 7649). The analyses show been recorded near Nagni (32 18: 75o 17).
that the dolomite may find use as flux. Kinnaur District
Occurrences of calcareous tufa has been recorded Carbonate rocks are present in the Manchap and
at Lathwin (3131: 7641) and near Thakurdwars Lipak Formations and in the Lilang Group as persistent
(3126: 7631). bands.
28
Kulu District Shimla District

Several thick bands of pink, cream and purple Limestone deposits of Deoban/Shali Group and
limestone interbedded with dolomite occur in the Aut Mandhali Formation occur in different parts of this
Formation of Larji Group near Hurla (31 50: 7711) district. The predominent limestone sequence of the
Tharas (31 50: 77 11), Dalasni (31 47: 7712) and Deoban varies in thickness from 120m to 600 m and
Larji (31 43: 77 13). extends over 30km west of the Tons River. The
limestone in the Mandhali Formation is comparatively
Several thick bands of grey dolomite interbedded less consistent. It shows maximum development in
with limestone in Larji Group occur as tectonic window the western part of the area where its thickness ranges
in the southern parts of the Kulu valley. A dolomite from 40m to 195m that is traceable for about 15km. In
band is well exposed on the ridge east of the Beas part of the area, tentative quarriable reserves of about
River between Hurla (31 50: 77 11 15) and south of 1020 million tonnes have been estimated. Chemical
Larji (31 46: 77 14) and also in the Hurla Garsah analysis shows that the limestone falls within the
and Larji Behali sections in the Garsha Valley and specification of cement, flux and chemical grades.
Sainj Valley respectively. Cement grade limestone deposits belonging to
Mandi District Sorgharwari Formation of the Shali Group have been
reported in (i) Drawal-Kariali (ii) Jalog Thench (iii)
Cement grade limestone, belonging to the
Jalog Suma (iv) Chamba nulla Thirku and Shali
Sorgharwari Formation of Shali Group has been
Sainthal blocks.
reported between Alsindi (3117 45: 7707 45) in
Mandi district in the west and Jaunrog (3118 00: 77 The estimated reserves and quality of the
2030) in Shimla District in the east. The limestone limestone in these blocks are as under:
was investigated along a strike length of 15km. It is (i) Drawal (31 14 00: 77o14 12) Kariali (3114 00:
pink to grey and contains thin shale partings. The 77 14 30) Block. The total inferred reserves of
CaO contents in limestone vary from 34.40 to 52.00% grade limestone as calculated upto ground level
and MgO varies from trace amount to 9.80%. The are of the order of 80.43 million tonnes. The
estimated reserves are of the order of 550 million limestone contains on an average 44.50% CaO
tonnes. and 1.95% MgO.
Dolomitic limestone occurs at Talwana (3126: (ii) Jalog (311510: 771630) Thench (3115 25:
76o52) and Baned (31o30: 7653). An occurrence of 771530) Block: The probable reserves of cement
dolomite has been reported from Harabagh (3159: grade limestone calculated upto 30m depth and
7650), 5km from Jogindernagar. strike extension of 30m on either side of the
sampling line are 3.185 million tonnes.
Thinly bedded Pre-tertiary limestone occurs near
Thalat (31 42: 77 50) along the Beas River. (iii) Jalog-Suma Block: Total inferred reserves of
cement grade limestone are 255 million tonnes.
Calcareous tufa has been reported below the Krol The limestone contains on an averge 46.3% CaO
limestone at Bir (31 42: 77 50) along the Beas River, and 1.88% MgO.
at Kulaira (31 31: 76 54) and Paloti (10 kilometres
from Mandi). The CaO, MgO percentages and the (iv) Chamba nullah (311505: 771540) Thirku
reserves of these occurrences are as under: Block: Total inferred reserves of cement grade
limestone are 224 million tonnes. The limestone
Location CaO% MgO% Tentative contains on an average 44.8% CaO, 1.54% MgO,
Reserve 1.4% R2O3 0. 73% Fe2O3and 1.2% Al2O3.
Bair 43.56 to 54.56 1.22 to 2.92 12,000 tonnes
(v) Shali (310200: 771000)-Sainthal (3115 05:
Kulaira 50.92 to 52.32 0.84 to 1.52 5,000 tonnes
771730) Block: Total inferred reserves of cement
Paloti 41.36 1.85 1,250 tonnes grade limestone are 146 million tonnes. The
29

limestone contains on an average 45.25% CaO (A) Datwardi (31 46 45: 77 2800) Chunvi

and 2.25% MgO. (30 4630: 77 2410) Block:
(a) Potential reserves 101.36
Chemical grade, flux grade and high-grade
million
limestones occurin different parts of Shimla District in tonnes
the Stromatolitic Limestone Member of Deoban Group.
(b) Inferred quarriable 21.44
It is generally grey, greyish white, very fine-grained, reserves million
massive and dense in nature. This limestone has been tonnes
investigated in Guma Block and its NW and SE (c) Inferred quarriable 8.80 million
extensions. reserves upto a depth of tonnes.
10m along dip direction.
The estimated reserves and quality in these blocks
are:
The limestone contains on an average 53.93%
Guma Block : CaO, 0.61% MgO and 0.84% R2O3.

(30 48 10: 77 43 45) 6.48 million
Inferred reserves upto a depth of tonnes (B) Hathana (30 o4800: 77 o2515) Olana
10m from the surface. (37o4800: 77o2600) Block:
The limestone contains 53.11% CaO, 0.44% MgO Probable reserves upto 1900m RL have been
and 0.77% R2O3. estimated as 29.87 million tonnes. The limestone
contains on an average 53.9% CaO, 0.66% MgO,
NW Extension of Guma Block:
12.72 million 0.19% Fe2O3 and 0.22% Al2O3.
Inferred reserves upto a depth of tonnes
10m from the surface. o
(C) Dida (30 4645: 77 25 20) Bhanra
The limestone contains an average of 52.89%
(30 4615: 77 2600) Shangoli (30 46 40:
CaO, 0.30% MgO and 0.74% R2O3.
77 2645) Block:
SW Extension of Guma Block: (a) Reserves without 16.29 million
11 million overburden tonnes
Inferred reserves upto a depth of tonnes
20m from the surface. (b) Reserves with 1:1 33.93 million
overburden tonnes
The limestone contains average percentage of (c) Reserves upto 30m 14.31 million
51.80% CaO, 0.69% MgO and 1.39% R2O3. depth tonnes
Sirmaur District (d) Reserves upto 60m 23.31 million
depth tonnes
The chemical grade, cement grade and dolomitic
(e) Reserves upto100m 34.56 million
grade deposits occur in different parts of this district.
depth tonnes
(a) Chemical grade limestone : The limestone
occurs as large lensoid bodies within the The limestone contains on an average 53.22%
mica-schist associated with streaky gneiss
CaO, 14.1% MgO and 1.17% R2O3.
and amphibolites of the Jutogh Group. It is
generally white to snow white, at places light
(D) Nohra (30 49 00: 77 25 30) Hindga
pink to greyish black, hard, compact and
(30 48 40: 77 23 30) Block :
coarse grained. At many places it has been
recrystallized into marble. (a) Reserves without 4.64 million
overburden tonnes
The limestone has been investigated in (i)
Datwardi Chunvi Block (ii) Hathana Olana (b) Reserves upto 30m 3.95 million
Block, (near Nohraghat) (iii) Dida Bhanra depth tonnes.
Block. The estimated reserves in these (c) Reserves upto 60m 6.26 million
blocks are as under: depth tonnes
30
The limestone contains on an average CaO (3034: 7737), Pedua (303405: 7736), Kyari
53.95%, MgO 0.88%, R2O3 0.81% with phosphorous (3034: 7734 30), Bharli (3033: 7745), Paonta
and sulphur in traces. (302600: 773700), Detar (3034: 7733),
Bakan (3034: 773145), Bharog (30 3337:
(E) Bulain Dhar Block (30 4710: 77 2410) :
773110), Khair (303354: 773010), Kansar
(a) Reserves without 1.31 million (30 3334 : 77 2845) and Roj (30 3324:
overburden tonnes 772324). Of these, the largest lens stretches
(b) Reserves upto 30m 1.65 million for more than 4km in an East West direction
depth tonnes. from Manal to Kyari.
(c) Reserves upto 60m 1.94 million The tentative reserves of the Kansar limestone
depth tonnes occurrence are estimated to be 6.88 million
tonnes. The limestone on an average 50% CaO
The limestone contains on an average 53.60%
and <1% MgO and is suitable in the manufcture
CaO, 0.95% MgO, 1.21% R2O3 with phosphorous and
of portland cement.
sulphur in traces.
Good quality limestone belonging to Subathu
The chemical analyses of the limestones from
Formation was reported in the Ja-Muse-ka-Khala
the above block indicate that it can be used as such
stream section north of Barthal (30 33: 77 26).
or after calcining in chemical industry, manufacture of
The limestone is exposed over a length of 1,100m
cement, alkalies, glass, calcium carbide, sugar
with a thickness varying between 8m and 45m.
refining, as a flux in iron and steel industry and as It grades into dolomite in the central portion. The
filler. reserves of limestone are estimated to be 3.7
(b) Cement grade limestone : Cement grade million tonnes. Another band of limestone varying
limestone occurs as discontinuous lensoid bodies in thickness between 2m and 7.5m has been
in between the Nahan (Lower Siwalik) and the reported from about 300m north of Tina (3033:
Subathu (Eocene) along the Main Boundary Fault 7724).
(Nahan Thrust) at Sataun (303330: 773830) Limestone of Krol C Formation of the Krol Group
and adjoining areas. The limestone is traceable with considerable thickness is reported from
for a stretch of 18km from Bhatrog (303245: Kewal Khal (30 41: 7711) and Sangrah (Kalth
773853) in the east to Baila (3034: 7728) in Bagrath). The chemical analysis of a few grab
the west. The limestone is fine to medium samples from this occurrence indicates an
grained, white to dark grey and brown and has average content of 52% CaO in 8 samples with a
high CaO content, low magnesia and silica thus maximum of 55.5% CaO in five samples.
making it suitable for the manufacture of portland
(c) Dolomitic magnesian limestone : The limestone
cement.
occurrence at Roj (303324: 772324) west of
A total reserve of 48.84 million tonnes of good Kansar is a Mg-rich dolomitic limestone with 30%
quality limestone has been proved between CaO and 20% MgO. The tentative reserves are
Bhatrog (30 3245: 77 3853) and Pedua of the order of 4.55 million tonnes. This limestone
(303405: 7736) along 7 km stretch. The can be used in mortar and as a base coat for
limestone contains on an average 50% CaO, 1% plastering.
MgO, 4 to 5% SiO2, 1.5% Al2 O3 and 1% Fe2O3.
The Mandhali Limesdtone between Sataun and
The limestone occurs along the same strike Kamrao is high in silica and magnesia. The reserves
continuation as discrete lenticular bodies all along of this limestone near Poka (30 33: 77 40 have been
the Nahan Thrust. The major limestone patches estimated to be several million tones. Dolomite free
occur at Sataun (30 3330: 773800) Manal from silica occurs at Salyoni (30 34: 77 23). Dolomitic
31
limestone occurs in the Krol Group at Kalth Bagrath calculated upto five metres depth, are of the order
block and Bagrath Raucha Block. of 55,620 tonnes. The chemical analysis
indicates that the magnesite contains, on an
(i) Kalth Bagrath Block (30 39 30: 77 26 00) :
average 39% MgO. The CaO content varies from
Reserves without overburden-388.1 million tonnes 0.87 to 27.54%.
Reserves upto 30m depth. 446.3 million tonnes. About 500m down stream of the confluence of
The limestone contains on an average 30.73% Muchetar nala and Ravi River, occur several small
CaO, 20.01% MgO, 1.31%, Al2O3 and 3.92% lenses of magnesite varying in size between 2m x
R2O3. 0.5m and 10m x 2m.
(ii) Bagrath-Raucha Block (304015: 7725 25) : (ii) In Duner (3202: 7619) magnesite is associated
with dolomite interbedded with slate and
Reserve upto 10m depth 375 million tonnes. carbonaceous shale of upper part of Katarigali
Limestone contains on an average 42.28% CaO Formation. Chemical analysis of samples has
and 13.33% MgO. revealed 38.19% MgO and 1.40% CaO content.
An occurrence of calcareous tufa is reported from (iii) A lensoid band of magnesite about 3m thick with
Shatdwara (30 52: 77 12) a strike length of 700m is recorded in Katarigali
Formation at Tundah (32 306: 77 2814).
Solan District
Chemical analysis of one sample revealed 37.15%
Occurrences of thick lenticular bodies of grey to MgO and 6.02% CaO content. Some irregular
dirty white dolomitic limestone of Shali Group form patches and small pockets of varying size of
the rugged topography of the Badhaloag limestone megnesite occur in the dolomite bands southwest
deposit. The grey to dirty white limestone bands show of Kao (302809: 763524). Chemical analysis
an average CaO content of 47%, which is considered of one specimen has revealed 36.50% MgO and
as fertilizer grade. 3.13% CaO content.
(iv) Small pockets of magnesite associated with a
LITHIUM
limestone band of Katarigali Formation occur near
Kinnaur District Pasan Got area (32 43 50: 76 21 30).
Lithium bearing granite pegmatite veins that have Chemical analysis of one specimen has revealed
intruted into the country rocks comprising 36.50% MgO and 3.13% CaO.
metasediments of the Vaikrita Group and Lipak (v) In the area north of Bhajund (324515: 762625)
Formation (Kanawar Group),in the Yangthang area pockets and lenses of magnesite (2m x 0.7m)
(31 53: 78 37) have shown Li content varies from have been noticed from 3m thick dolomitic
300-1000 ppm.
limestone band which marks the contact between
the Katarigali and Manjir Formations. Magnesite
MAGNESITE gradually grades into dolomitic limestone.
Chamba District (vi) Magnesite lenses along with limestone varying
(i) Lenses of magnesite occur in the Katarigali in thickness from 1m-7m over a strike length of
Formation near the confluence of Muchetar nala 75m are seen in Suni area.
and the Ravi River (322300: 76o3900). The (vii) In Kala (3223 45 : 763830) area, magnesite
main magnesite band is exposed in a vertical cliff bands varying in thickness from a few metres to
face on the left side of Muchetar nala and extends
20m have been located.
towards WNW to the ridge top. It is a lensoid
band varying in size between 30m x 3m and 350m (viii) Magnesite bands ranging in thickness from 1m
x 10m. On an average, its thickness varies to 10m have been reported from Panglod nala (32

between 4m and 9m. The estimated reserves, 48 30: 76 21 30).
32
(ix) Lenticular magnesite bands ranging in thickness 0.74 NaCl, 2.600 Na2 CO3 and 0.0040 CaCO3
from a few metres to 20m have been reported at (in 1,000 parts). It is used to cure goitre.
a number of places south of Manimahesh
(iii) At Tatwani (3207: 7646) there is a spring in the
(322345 : 763830).
bed of the Lum, a tributary of the Birmi River. The
(x) Lenticular bands of magnesite associated with temperature of water is 49C. Water is limpid with
dolomite/limestone in Katarigali Formation occur a saline taste and slightly alkaline. Residue
in Chanota (322230: 7629) and Gharola (3226 contains 9.233% NaCl with small quantites of
20: 762750) areas. The size of the magnesite chloride, sulphate and carbonate of lime, also
bands at Chanota varies between 30m x 3m and 0.012 parts of sodium bromide in 1,000.
350m x 10m with thickness varying between 4m
and 9m. Chemical analyses of a few samples (iv) At Tira Jiva; (3008: 7614) a saline spring occurs
has revealed 45.15% MgO. In Gharola area the with 42.2C from seven or eight small vents within
size of the magnesite lenses varies between 10cm a space of 20m. It is strongly charged with H2S
x 2m and 1 m x 20cm. and leaves saline encrustations. Hot spring is
also reported from Skiba, Thopan, Karcham, Tapri,
(xi) Magnesite bodies ranging in thickness from 1m and Roura Thach areas.
to 5m with strike extension for 50m have been
found in the lower horizon of Dunai Formation, (v) At Manikaran (3202: 7725) there are as many
about 0.5km north of Keh Got (32 5830: as fourteen springs. Tempeature of water varies
762230) and about 1km north of Riali Got. from 71.4 C to 94.4C (boiling point at this
elevation). Discharge of water is exceedingly
copious. Sulphuretted hydrogen is emitted, but
MINERAL WATER
the water is clear and palatable, containing 3.2
Bilaspur District parts of saline matter in 10,000. It has deposited
At Bhasra (3114: 76 47) the water is strongly large quantities of ferruginous travertine.
saline and has a slightly aperient quality. It is said to
Shimla District
be efficacious in cases of scrofula, dropsy and
reheumatism. Ten springs occur on the right bank of the Satluj
River, opposite Suni village (3114: 7711). The
Kangra District
temperature of water is 57C and is strongly sulphurous
(i) At Jawalamukhi (3152: 76 23) water is saline with a strong distasteful salinity. It contains chloride
and is being used as a cure for goitre. The and sulphate of soda.
amount of salt and iodine in the water of six springs
situated in Jawalamukhi valley in 1000 parts is Solan District
as follows: There are five springs at Jaoni (3132: 7750).
The temperature of water is 55C with a disagreeable
S.No. Location Salt Iodine
saline taste and its deposits are found to be of
1. Kipera Spring 22.0 0.0799
ferruginous nature.
2. Jwala Spring 26.30 0.09324
nd
3. Jwala 2 Spring 24.0 0.0799
NICKEL AND COBALT
4. Jwalamukhi 22.80 0.0799
Kulu District
5. Nagia Spring 22.20 0.09324
6. Kangra Basa 23.0 0.09324 Traces of nickel and cobalt have been reported
from the copper ore occurring in quartzite in the Naraul
(ii) At Lausa (3023: 7605) water is sulphurous at a (314940:771345) Danala (31o 47 30 : 7715)
temperature of 22C. It resembles that of Bareges, area of Garsha Valley. The mineralisation comprises
Haute, and Pyrenees and contains 0.159 Na2SO4, chalcopyrite, covellite, pyrite and cobalt-nickel bloom.
33
OCHRE area of about 3 sq m along the road cutting, east of

Lahaul & Spiti District Rohru (31 12: 76 45).
Hayden (1904) mentioned the occurrence of large The occurrence of 70cm wide zone of pyrite
quantities of yellow ochre in recent deposits near disseminations in a band of carbonaceous phyllite has
Dauksa camping ground on the Ratang River (3213: been recorded north of the Sungri Rest House (31
7805) that was initially reported by Griesbach. 23: 77 42). The band is traceable for a distance of
about 3km along the strike with an average width of
about 240 cm. Several lenticular seams of pyrite of
PYRITE
variable thickness occurring within the Jutogh Group
Chamba District are found in the upper reaches of the Ashmi River,
Sporadic cubes of pyrite occur in Kamli Got area east of the Tara devi (3100: 7705) to the south of
along joint planes in slates and phyllite in 2-5m thick Shimla. The pyrite seams are generally upto 60 cm
zones traceable for a length of 150cm, at 800m thick. The principal localities where the pyrite is found
southwest of Mawa (32 46: 76 18). Such are Badhaighat nala (31 05: 77 08), Kyari (Shamri)
mineralisation was also seen two kilometres east of nala (31 05: 77 09), north of Rehana (31 04: 77
Kamli Got (32 46: 78 20) in the debris of quartzitic 10) etc. The average sulphur content ranges between
slateon the right bank of Lanj nala. The pyrite 35% and 40% and Al2O3 0.02%.
associated with pyrrhotite is not considered to be un-
Pyrite occurrence is also found at Chirgaon (31
economic. Pyrite has been recorded in highly crushed
32: 78 06) and Purbani (31 36 30: 78 18).
carbonaceous slates of Katarigali Formation near the
Chakoli Bridge (324530: 760000). In Bharaura Sirmaur District
where pyrite veins vary in thickness from a millimetre An occurrence of pyrite in the form of lenses and
to 4.5cm, it occurs as disseminated cubes, veins, veins in limestone and slate was recorded at Sayasu
stringers and fine-grained impregnation. (3041: 7745) and Diyandon (3043: 77o 43). The
Lahaul & Spiti District steeply dipping vein at Sayasu is exposed in Tons
Dissemination and stringers of pyrite were River bed, for a distance of 150m with a thickness
observed in the Shatul Gneiss near Dulgi Ghati (31 varying between 50 cm and 1.2m. On analysis, one
26: 78 05) and in the rocks of Jutogh Group, west of sample yielded 30% sulphur with arsenic in traces.
Brandy Khagau (31 26: 78 06).
Shimla District
RADIOACTIVE MINERALS
A zone of pyrite dissemination associated with Kinnaur District
chalcopyrite and arsenopyrite is recorded in the phyllite Anamolous radioactivity value is observed near
and schist of the Jaunsar Group near Matiana (3113: Ropar village (3148:7826) in the black slates of the
77 24). The mineralisation is associated with Batal Formation. The yellowish encrustations along
impersistent veins of white quartz, the longest vein fracture planes in the Wangu Granite are reported to
being 2m long and 8cm wide. Small veinlets are about be carnotite.
40cm to 50cm long and 1cm to2cm wide. The
Kulu District
mineralisation zone is exposed in the road cutting. It
runs for about 2km of which the second kilometre is a Radioactive minerals occur in massive upper
zone of sparsely disseminated pyrite. Chemical quartzite of the Banjar Formation, Manikaran Formation
analysis shows pyrite contains 0.5% to 5.8% sulphur. near Chhinjra, Jari in Parbati Valley and near Thela
Pyrite occurrences have also been reported from near (3151: 7716) in Garsha Valley. A good value above
Bhuin (3107: 77o27) on the Theog (3107: 77 32) background radioactivity has been noted in the
Motkhai road. Small cubes of pyrite are disseminated Manikaran Quartzite east of Pingrang and on the
in the carbonaceous schist of Jutogh Group over an Tharang Dhar.
34
Hamirpur district from 8% to 10% over a strike length of more than 5km
Radioactive minerals are reported from the rocks in the Rajgarh area.
of Siwaliks in the district. Sirmaur District
Shimla District Sparsley distributed phosphatic nodules
Uranium mineralisatin was located by the Atomic containing 30% P2O5 occur in the grey and yellowish
Mineral Division in the Manikaran Quartzite of the shales in Baila Kansar (30o 34: 7728) and Birleh
Rampur Group in Kasha (312430: 775015) Pat (3034: 7726) areas. In Nigali (303440:77 43 25)
(3124: 7750) area. The mineralisation in the form of Shamyala (30 33 30: 77 43 30) area, rock
yellow brown encrustation is visible in the weathered phosphate is generally found in the lower Tal only.
surface near Pat. Besides, pockets of phosphatic chert occur in
Krol dolomite. Cherty pebbles in conglomerate of
ROCK PHOSPHATE Upper Tals are also mildly phosphatic at Charang Dhar.
The cherty pebbles vary in size from less than one cm
Chamba Distrtict
to 10m with 20.25% P2O5.
Phosphatic nodules varying in size from 1.5cm
to 7cm in diameter and containing 20%-30% P2O5 Solan District
occur in the black carbonaceous slate of Salooni Rock phosphate in Dati Deeb (311230: 7656
Formation at Tarota (32 42 50: 77 05 25), Dhandi 30) occurs as pellets in the green facies rocks of
Nala (32o 45 30: 76o 00 00) Dhanot (32 43 30: 76 Subathu Formation. The sandstone and limestone of
05 20) Dhulan (32o 39: 76o 09) Tiloga (32 45 40: Krol A Formation of the Krol Group are found to be
76o 00 00) Thamiru (32 48 40: 75 57 00) Dantal phosphatic in Deoria (305030: 771115) area. In Pata
(32 45 40: 76 00 00) and Bhatinund (3243: 76 (312145:765545) and Rakhalong Deedo (3110
04). 00:765640) areas phosphatic nodules occur in the
brown shales of Subathu Formation. The nodules,
Kinnaur District
vary in size upto 26cm and contain 32% P2O5.
Black cherty nodules in the shale of Kuling
Formation contain 21% P2O5. The phosphatic horizon
is about 20m thick. However, the percentage of the ROCK SALT
nodules is very low. Mandi District
Lahaul & Spiti District The rock salt occurs in Guma (3158: 7651) and
Phosphatic nodules ranging in size from 4cm to Drang (31 46: 7656) areas. The total reserves of the
10cm from the Spiti Shale have analysed 5%-15% rock salt are 7.552 million tones. Chemical analysis
P2O5. indicates on average insoluble impurities 21%, KCl,
3% NaCl about 70.40% and the rest consisting of CaO,
Mandi District CaSO4 and MgO. Detailed geological work and drilling
Shale pockets of the Khatpul Formation and has been carried out to assess the grade and reserves.
dolomite of the Tattapani Formation, Shali Group are Drilling data show that except for minor intercalation
mildly phosphatic at Kandi (3119: 76 44). In Katli of non productive beds (clay, quartzite, etc.) the cores
Jau area, the phosphate occurring as pellets is confined are composed of salt throughout the area investigated.
to the green facies of the Subathu Formation. The Chemical analyses show that the average salt content
phosphatic nodules are 10cm x 12 cm in size. is over 70% and with depth no regular change in the
Shimla District salt content is indicated.
In Kalor (305215: 771030) area, the sandstone Besides Drang, saline grits occur intermittently
alongwith limestone of Krol A Formation (Krol Group) in discontinuous patches over a linear distance of
is found to be phosphatic. The P2O5 content varies 180km northwest of Mandi. The important occurrences
35
of salt grit are: Megal (3145: 7657), Drang, Herkalan SLATE

(3156: 7652), Guma (3156: 76 51), Dewalkhas (32
Chamba District
05: 76 40) and Kandbari (3207: 75 35).
Good deposits of slate, suitable for roofing, paving
Kangra District and fencing purposes occur in Chamba and Katarigali
Thin white, saline encrustation forms on the Formations in different parts of Chamba district.
surface of pebbles and rocks near Behna (31 22: 77
In the Chamba Formation, the slate is confined
23).
to its middle part. Good deposits of slate suitable for
roofing, paving and fencing purposes occur in a zone
RUBIDIUM nearly 7km in length extending from near Talai
Kinnaur District (32 2155: 76 0430) to northwest of Makotsu
(32 2450: 76 0110). The slate belt attains its
The pegmatite v eins intrusiv e into the
maximum thickness of 884m in Chakki nala and
Carboniferous rocks in the Yangthang (31 53: 78 37)
minimum thickness of 200m near Makotsu.
area contain upto 350ppm of rubidium.
The following are the important slate occurrences:
SILVER (i) Rupaina (3122 00: 760335) Nargal (322215:
760225) area: The slate belt in this area is 240m
Sirmaur District
thick and extends over a strike length of above
Silver has been reported 3km east of Chiargaon.
800m. The probable reserves estimated are of the
The samples, however, gave a value of only 10ppm of
order of 5,18,400 tonnes.
Ag.
(ii) Bhora (3223 05: 76o 02 50) Bela (32 22 40:
Kinnaur District
76 02 15) area: The slate horizon in this area is
The galena boulders in Amba (3038: 77 27) area about 560m thick extending over a strike length
contain upto 250ppm Ag. of about 900m. The probable reserves are of the
Kulu District order of 1,360,800 tonnes.
Calvert and Henwood reported several lodes of (iii) Chaunda Devi (32 24 40: 76 01 50) area: The
argentiferous galena in the neighbourhood of slate deposit is 320m thick and extends over a
Manikaran, which are as under: - strike length of about 700m. The probable
reserves are of the order of 6,04,800 tonnes.
(i) Khenor khad : Three mineralized zones have been
reported from this place. First zone has yielded (iv) Renda (32 24 40: 76 01 15) area: The slate
silver, second zone lead, gold, silver and copper, horizon in this area is 160m thick and extends
and the third zone, several centimeters thick, has over a strike length of 400m. The probable reserves
yielded lead, gold and silver. are of the order of 1,72,800 tonnes.
(ii) Uchich (32 01: 7723) : About 69cm wide, lode In Chuari (322550: 76 0100) Dhalhousie
had been reported from here. The ore samples (3234: 7558) area, five horizons of slate have been
show gold and silver mineralization. recorded in Kulu Formation. Out of these, the two
topmost horizons contain good quality slate.
(iii) Chong (3757: 77 11) : One lode reported at this
place is about 15cm thick. The ore contains lead The following are the slate bearing localities in
and silver. this area:
Calvert has also mentioned a 75cm wide lode of Khotri (32 25 55: 76 02 10), Chamari
galena containing silver at Komand on the eastern side (32 2600: 760115), Debrera (3227 0: 760010),

of the Kot Kandi (3155: 77 16). Dabriara (322855: 760025), Kophru (325900:
36
760010), Base (322910: 76 5945), Dramman (2) Ab Got (321650: 761735) area: The slate
(3229 0: 755925), Sugalu (323100: 755910), horizon in this area is 40m thick and extends
Sappar (323050: 755835), Kunna (32 3110: over a strike length of 200m. The probable
755835), Basti (323115: 755835), Kathu-Ka-Khol estimated reserves are of the order of 21,600
(322955: 7558 45), Thanoli (3200 15: 7558 30) tonnes.
and Grarana (322930: 755800). (3) Area north of Bhatti (321645: 761515): The
The total reserves of cleavable slates occurring 60m thick slate belt extends over a strike length
in the area, between Kalm Nadi in the southeast and of 100m. The probable reserves are of the order
near Sapri (323325: 755835), in the northwest have of 1,62,000 tonnes.
been estimated to be of the order of 11,505,000 cu m.
The reseres have been calculated upto a depth of 15m. STIBNITE
In the Chamba Formation, fairly good deposits of Lahaul & Spiti District
slate occur in its middle and upper parts in the area Stibnite occurs as small veins in the granitic rocks
north and northeast of Rakh. This formation, in fact, of Bara Shigri (3217:7736) area. According to the
is the main source of slate produced in the Chamba Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM), the minimum anticipated
and Barmaur tehsils of this district. The important slate reserves are 10,568.20 tonnes with 1.65% Sb. The
bearing localities are Dulara (322905: 761435), mineralization is associated with cervantite and
Dhanara (322625: 761445), Se (322940: 7614 kermesite with traces of copper, zinc and arsenic.
30), and Panthal (32 2855: 76 1430). The
investigation carried out in the slate belt in the area TALC/STEATITE
between Sajhot (323005: 761355), to near Dudiana
Shimla District
(3228 50 : 761520), has revealed the probable
reserves of the order of 18.4 million tonnes. An occurrence of talc has been reported from near
Asrau (3129: 7820) upto Idpa (3139: 7824). The
In the Katarigali Formation a zone of dark grey rocks consist of talc schists.
black shale/slate has been traced from near Kandail
Sirmaur District
in the northwest to near Gharola (322610: 762715),
in the southwest. Steatite of good quality occurs at Nahan (3033:

77 17).
Kangra District
A more or less continuous slate belt of variable TOURMALINE
width and thickness occur over a strike extension of
about 7km from a little west of Bhagsunath (321440: Kinnaur District
762000), in the southeast to near Chamba Pass (i) Tourmaline has been reported in the pegmatites
(321704: 761510), in the northwest. traversing the gneisses and granites around
Rakcham (3123: 7826) and Chhitkul (312120:
The belt comprises two slate horizons of variable 782625).
widths occurring at different stratigraphic levels within
the Kulu Formation. One of the horizons, occurring at (ii) In Khokpea nala, a small lens of tourmaline rich
the base of streaky and gneissic quartzite is about graphite schist is exposed within the Vaikrita
75m wide and has an average width of about 120m. Group. Similar concentration is noticed in
The important slate occurrences are as under: quartzite about a kilometer south east of Shangi
(3133 15: 782900).
(1) Dharmkot (321505: 761915) area: Here the
Kulu District
slate horizon is 210m thick extending over a strike
length of 1750m. The probable estimated reserves (i) Tourmaline bearing pegmatites intrusive into
are of the order of 9,92,250 tonnes. gneisses and granites have been reported around
37
Umga Thach (3210: 7727) and Samsi Thach wealth of Himachal Pradesh is estimated at over Rs.
(3207: 7729). 1,00,000 crore.
(ii) Black crystals of tourmaline, 5cm in length and
over 1cm in width, are present in pegmatites SOILS
around Sara Umga Thach (3210: 77o29) and The soils of the State can broadly be divided into
Pando-Seo Thach (315630: 774030). nine groups on the basis of their development and
physico-chemical properties. These are: (i) alluvial
ZINC soils, (ii) brown hill soil, (iii) brown earth, (iv) brown
forests soils, (v) grey wooded or podzolic soils, (vi)
Lahaul & Spiti District grey brown podzolic soils, (vii) planosolic soils, (viii)
Zinc blende is sparingly disseminated through the humus and iron podzols (ix) alpine humus mountain
gangue of the antimony ore at Bukkanbudi in the speletal soils. The soil found in the districts of Mandi,
Tarikere taluk (3142: 7549). Kangra, Bilaspur, Una, Solan, Hamirpur and Sirmaur
Sirmaur District is generally brown, alluvial and grey brown podzolic,
Kullu and Shimla have greywooded podzolic soils,
Zinc blende is found associated with galena and while Kinnaur, Lahaul and Spiti and some parts of
pyrite at Anyar (3044: 7744) and Chamri (3043: Chamba district have humus mountain speletal soils.
7745). Chemical analyses of samples collected from
old workings at Anyar, has yeilded 1.5% Zn and 0.21%
Pb. Another sample has given 10% Zn. At Chamri the
HYDRO ELECTRIC RESOURCE
zone contains 3.01% Zn and 3.01% Pb. Himachal Pradesh, abode of numerous glaciers
and network of perennial streams with availbbility of
FOREST high hydraulic heads, has immense hydropower
potential. Out of Indias total 80,000 MW hydroelectric
As per Forest Survey of India (2007), an area of potentential 20,000 MW lies in Himachal Pradesh. The
14,353 sq km of state is under forest cover of which state has nearly exploited the half of the acquired
1,093 sq km, 7,883 sq km and 5,377 sq km area hydroelectric potential and the work on exploiting the
constituted by very dense, moderately dense and open rest of the potential is in progress. The major
forests respectively. These forests vary from Tropical hydroelectric projects of the state which have been
Dry Deciduous Forests type to Sub-Tropical Dry Ever commissioned or likely to be commissioned soon are
Green Forests and Himalayan Moist Temperate Bhakra dam project (1200MW), Nathpa Jhakri HEP
Forests type to Sub-Alpine and Alpine Forests. In (1500 MW), Beas Satluj link project (990MW), Pong
these forests different spececies viz Deodar cover 811 Dam HEP (360MW), Chamera HEP stage I (540 MW),
km2, Kail (Blue Pine) 809 km2, Chil (Pine) 1436 km2, Baspa HEP I & II (510 MW), Karcham-Wangtu HEP
Fir/spruce 1343 km2, Sal 183 km2 and Ban (Oak) (1000MW), Rampur HEP (430MW), Kol Dam HEP
covers 540 km2 of the total area of the state. Forest (800MW) and Parvati HEP (1000MW).
38
References
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Forest, Dehradun. 1970-71).
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Jour. Geol. Soc. India, 20(2), 90-94. Chandra Shekhar (1983): Report o the cement grade limestone
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41
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Errata
Printed as To be read/modified as
Page, 6; para, 1; The reconstructed stratigraphy of the to be deleted

rocks in Himachal Pradesh is given below.
Read at the bottom of Title page 2 (before Hindi Preface page) - Published by the The Director General,
Geological Survey of India, 27, Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Kolkata 700016.
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of India ISSN 0579-4706

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GEOLOGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES

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Supervision and Editorial Scrutiny

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Price : Inland : ` 144 Foreign : 4.1 $ 6.5 4.9

AGE GROUP FORMATION LITHOLOGY

DEVONIAN Muth Quartzite White to mottled, quartzarenite

Chamba Phyllite, slate

*used in informal stratigraphic sense

Kaga Formation rests conformably over the Mikin Jurassic

Globotruncana gansseri dicarinata, G.stuarti Oligocene - Lower Miocene

Mandi District Lahaul and Spiti District

At Kheel the baryte vein is 9m long with a width BERYL

Kulu District The clay from all the aforementioned pockets is

(32 0230:77 5700) and Shitekar (32 2630: KYANITE

LEAD Shimla District

Kulu District Shimla District

OCHRE area of about 3 sq m along the road cutting, east of

of salt grit are: Megal (3145: 7657), Drang, Herkalan SLATE

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Southern Region : P.O. GSI Complex, Bandlaguda,

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North Eastern Region : Kumud Villa, Nongrim Hills,

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Page, 6; para, 1; The reconstructed stratigraphy of the to be deleted

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