In Himachal Pradesh, an estimated 65 to 70 per cent voters exercised their franchise in elections to three tribal assembly constituencies of Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti and Bharmaur in Himachal Pradesh, which passed off peacefully.

Nearly 70 per cent polling was recorded in Kinnaur, 65 per cent in Bharmaur and 62 per cent in Lahaul and Spiti.

There was over 80 per cent polling in some pockets with fewer votes being cast in Pangi, Spiti and Sangla, officials said.

"No untoward incident was reported from any part of these constituencies," state Chief Election Officer Nisha Nanda said.

Electronic Voting Machines were used for the first time in these constituencies generating great excitement and curiosity among the voters.

Seventeen candidates are in the fray for the three seats. Counting of votes will take place on Wednesday.

Polling started on a dull note in far-flung places but picked up fast and brisk polling was reported during the day, the officials said.

In the cold desert of Spiti, people attired in their traditional costumes reached the polling booths in groups.

In Spiti, Pangi and Bharmaur, women voters turned up in large numbers.

The three tribal constituencies were snowbound during the winter when the other 65 constituencies of the state went to the hustings.

More than 10 polling booths were located at an altitude of over 12,000ft, with the highest polling booth - Hikkim - situated at an altitude of 14,500ft.