Culture of Himachal Pradesh

[1] The Hindu communities residing in Himachal include the Brahmins, Rajputs, Kannets, Rathis and Kolis.

There is also a tribal population in the state which mainly comprises Gaddis, Kinnarms, Gujjars, Pangawals and Lahaulis.

The carpets, leather works, shawls, paintings, metalware and woodwork are worth appreciating.

Some of the specialities of Himachal include Manee, Madeera, Pateer, Chouck, Bhagjery and chutney of til.

As per the traditional dressing norms the dress of the Brahmin male includes kurta, pyjama, ,long traditional coat (chola), waistcoat, turban and a hand towel while that of the Rajput male consists of tight fitting churidar pyjamas, a long coat (chola) and a starched turban.

A tribe namely Dom is expert in manufacturing bamboo items like boxes, sofas, chairs, baskets and rack.

Metalware of the state include utensils, ritualistic vessels, idols, gold and silver jewelleries.

The architecture, objects, shops, museums, galleries and craftsmen charm with the variety perfected through time.

These festivals are the time for the Himachalis to adorn colourful dress and accessories and get mixed up with the rest of their kins.

The centuries-old Sair festival[5] is celebrated mainly in Shimla, Kangra, Mandi, Kullu and Solan districts every year in mid-September.

It is celebrated to mark the end of the crop harvest and also the rakhi thread are removed and offered to the mother sairi.

Siddu, Patrode, Cheele,Tudkiya Bhath and Babru are the authentic snack dishes of the state.

Now, steamed momos (dumplings) and noodles are also readily available and popular with travellers who want to graduate to Indian food slowly.

[6] Some of the specialities of Himachal include Manee, Mandra or "Madra", "Palda", "Redu" Patrode, Chouck, Bhagjery and chutney of til (sesame seeds).