Himachal Pradesh was established in 1948 as a Chief Commissioner's Province within the Union of India. The Himachal History The province comprised the hill districts around Shimla and southern hill areas of the former Punjab region. Himachal became a part C state on 26 January 1950 with the implementation of the Constitution of India. Himachal Pradesh became a Union Territory on 1 November 1956. On 18 December 1970 the State of Himachal Pradesh Act was passed by Parliament and the new state came into being on 25 January 1971. Thus Himachal emerged as the eighteenth state of the Indian Union.In earlier times, the area was variously divided among smaller kingdoms, such as those

Himachal Pradesh has a rich history dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization (2250-1750 BCE), with early tribes such as the Koilis, Halis, Dagis, Dhaugris, Dasa, Khasas, Kinnars, and Kirats inhabiting the region. During the Vedic period, it was home to several small republics known as Janapadas, later conquered by the Gupta Empire. After the Gupta decline, local chieftains and Rajput principalities ruled independently. The region faced invasions from the Delhi Sultanate, Mahmud Ghaznavi, Timur, and Sikander Lodi. Under the Mughal Empire, several hill states acknowledged Mughal suzerainty while maintaining autonomy.

Sazo: The most awaited festival of Himachal Pradesh, Sazo is celebrated to bid adieu to the village deities. Lohri /Maghi: Lohri is a feisty festival celebrated by the people of Himachal Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab. Himachal Winter Carnival: To promote the culture of Himachal Pradesh, a winter carnival is organized every year in Manali. Himachal Pradesh started the trend of Winter Carnival back in 1977 and now after almost three decades the festival has become bigger and better! During this festival, the ski slopes of Manali are invaded by adventure enthusiasts. Losar Festival: The New Year celebration of Tibetans, Losar festivals takes place in the first week of the first lunar month (February), with performances of Tibetan opera and prayer ceremonies being held at various monasteries.

The people of Himachal Pradesh have a rich culture which is very much apparent in their day to day lives. The colourful dresses of Himachalis will strike you instantly as you make your way through the state. However, more than the dresses or even the notable physical features of the people, it is their warm and friendly nature that will draw you towards them. Interacting with them can be extremely fruitful as you will get to know more about their religious and cultural life as it is. Watch the various art forms of the people on metal, wood, leather and wool and collect some of these items as memory of your visit. Rejoice in their folk dance and music and even pick up a few notes and steps from the artists. The cuisine of Himachal is not as rich as some other states of the country yet there are quiet a few dishes that you must try out during your visit.