Himachal Pradesh is a state of many splendors. The culture and civilization of the state is incredibly old. The vast area covered by exotic mountains, along with some fantastic altitude gradients result in the tremendous bio-diversity of the Himalayan region. Vegetation and wildlife both change according to the varying altitude and the resulting differences in climatic conditions. Most of the people are either Hindu or Buddhist, depending on agriculture for their livelihood.
The God fearing, simple and kind hearted people of Himachal are tradition bound and they have retained their old cultural heritage despite the large passage of time. The monuments of the state reveal crosscurrents of cultural and stylistics exchange along with local innovation in Art. The love for celebration is deeply ingrained in their culture and it finds expression through the various occasions on the Himachali calendar. The foods of the state have distinguishing flavours and are prepared especially during festive occasions. The state is also famous for its art and crafts. Thapada is a shawl which is designed in this state with a touch of embroidery works. Festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm by dancing and singing.