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The history of present day Himachal Pradesh in the post-independence era has been outlined below: The Chief Commissioner's province of H.P. came into being on 15th April, 1948. H.P. became a part C state on 26th January, 1950 with the implementation of the Constitution of India. Bilaspur was merged with Himachal Pradesh on 1st July, 1954.

Himachal Pradesh became Union Territory on 1st November, 1956. Kangra and most of the other hill areas of Punjab were merged with H.P. on 1st November, 1966 though its status remained that of a Union Territory. On 18th December, 1970 the State of Himachal Pradesh Act was passed by Parliament and the new state came into being on 25th January, 1971. Thus H.P. emerged as the eighteenth state of Indian Union. Himachal Pradesh has come a long way since then. It has seen a number of full-fledged governments which have led the state towards economic self-reliance.

Himachal pradesh Art & Culture:

About 90% of the population of Himachal Pradesh is Hindus. There main communities are Brahmins, Rajputs, Kannets, Rathis and Kolis. The tribal population of the state comprise of the Gaddis, Kinnars, Gujjars, Pangawals and Lahaulis. The Gaddis are the traditional shepherds who migrate from the alpine pastures to the lower regions during the winters.

Thapada is a large embroidered shawl, which is a specialty of the handicraft of Himachal Pradesh. Other items of craft include the Kohana, a kind of a wall hanging, pillow covers, blouses and caps adorned with fine embroidery. The embroidered caps of the Kulu, Sirmair, Kinnaur and Lahaul regions are also very famous. The shawls from Kulu, woolen rugs and carpets from Lahaul, depicting the traditional Pahadi designs. Beautiful patchwork quilts, rag dolls and elephants are also made in the area and comprise a necessary parts of bride's trousseau. The wool products are made in either the Byangi wool. Dyeing and printing of fabrics has been a traditional craft in the area.

TOURIST PLACE IN HIMACHAL History:

Shimla:

The capital of Himachal Pradesh, is also called the "Queen of the Hill Stations". It was named after its patron Goddesses Shyamla Devi, an incarnation of the Goddesses Kali.Shimla has the thick growth of forests of oak, pine, fur and rhododendron. There are variety of adventure sports like skiing, trekking, angling and golf for the tourists for their leisure activities.

Manali : It is a small hill town in the valley of Kullu. It is referred to as the "Cradle between the Lesser Himalaya". Manali is one of the most beautiful and popular hill station known for lush and fresh scenic beauty. It is also a gateway to Lahaul and Spiti.

Dalhousie: is at a distance of 80 km from Pathankot. It is nestled in the outer inclines of Dhaulandhar range. The hill station is well known for its pleasant climate and beautiful scenery. It is spread over five hills and is different from other hill stations.

Kufri : Kufri is a small hill station near Shimla. It is an important tourist place because of its closeness with Shimla. The place is known for trekking and hiking trails. There are nature parks and picnic spots at Kufri. In winters, one can indulge in the winter sports like skiing and tobogganing.

Dharamshala: Dharamshala, at an altitude of 4000 m above sea level, it is located on spur of Dhaulandhar range. The town has rich growth of deodar and pine forests as well as tea gardens. Dharamshala literally means 'the holy refuge'. It was founded and developed by the British in 1855 as their summer resort. It is famous as the abode of the Dalai Lama and is called as the "Little Lhasa' .

Chail : Chail is a very small hamlet and a hill station where you can discover nature at its best untouched by the pollution, deforestation and modern construction. It is an ideal getaway for fresh and tranquil environment in the lap of the nature.

Some Important Weblinks of Himachal pradesh