Kullu and Kinnauri Shawls
Himachal Pradesh, a state in Northern India is spread over 55,670 sq. km and is surrounded by states of Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Punjab and by the Tibet Autonomous Region. The state is spread across valleys and 90% of the population lives in villages and towns. Shimla district has maximum urban population of 25%. Known for its rich natural beauty, the literal meaning of its name is - 'In the lap of Himalayas'.
Himachal has a rich heritage of handicrafts. These include shawls, carpets, silver and metal ware, embroidered chappals, grass shoes, thangka and monastery paintings, wood work, pottery, wooden and metal utensils and various other house hold items. Since Himachal Pradesh has a colder climate, woolen garments are the need of its residents. Their traditional winter clothes include dhoru, jurkhi, Himachali topi, jhaggi, pattu and loia. These also have cultural importance and are worn during weddings and special occasions.
