SOUVENIRS FROM MANALI

You see someone with a spherical cap carefully balanced on their hands with a brilliant band in front, and you know they are from Himachal. Interestingly, the Himachali Topi or Cap is unisex and is worn by both men and women. It's a great Himachal souvenir to bring home. Most tourist attractions or markets have them readily available. They are not too expensive, therefore most of us can afford them. There is, however, no standard Himachali topi. Each Himachal area has its own Topi - Kinaauri, Kullavi, Bushari, and Lahauli. They are similar in shape, but it is the pattern that sets them apart. You can actually tell where someone is from by looking at their topi.

Himachal has a cold temperature, thus warm clothes is essential. It also contains a lot of wool-producing animals like sheep. It's no surprise that wool weaving has grown as an art form in Himachal. Shawls in this collection offer basic yet attractive patterns. Both men and women wear them. Men's shawls named 'Loi' or 'Pattu' are bigger and more simple. Women's shawls are covered with a strip of artistic and colourful designs. While beige and pastel colours dominate, the border offers a splash of colour. Floral designs might also be found on occasion.

The dorje is often used in meditation rituals as a symbol of the connection between ordinary life experiences and the state of being that we live in harmony with nature and all that surrounds us. It is Tantric Buddhism's principal ritual trident.

Every area of India has its own particular jewellery style. There is a lot of silver jewellery in Himachal. Some typical Himachali items include:  Chaakk - A silver decoration worn on the top of their heads.  Chiiri - This is a similar item of jewellery to Maangtika.  Jhumka - A form of earring that is popular in the state.  Chanderhar - A form of necklace with a pendant used on important occasions.  Toke - A band worn around the wrist that is never or rarely removed. Pari - A foot ornament worn around the ankle like a little foot necklace.