Uttarakhand, known as the “Land of the Gods,” is a region steeped in rich cultural traditions, which are beautifully reflected in the clothing worn by its people.
The state is home to two major regions Garhwal and Kumaon and various tribal communities, each with its own unique attire that speaks to the local customs, environment, and lifestyle.
From the vibrant Rangwali Pichora worn by Kumaoni women during weddings to the practical Bakhu of the Bhotia tribes, every garment carries deep cultural significance.
Uttarakhand’s traditional dresses are not only functional but also showcase the craftsmanship of local artisans. In this blog, we explore the top 10 Uttarakhand traditional dress male and female, providing insight into how these outfits shape the region’s identity.
What is the Significance of the Rangwali Pichora in Uttarakhand Weddings?
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The Rangwali Pichora holds immense significance in Kumaoni weddings. This saffron or yellow-coloured drape is typically worn by the bride during the wedding ceremony, symbolizing marital bliss, prosperity, and good fortune.
The intricate gold or silver thread embroidery adds to its visual appeal and cultural importance. Traditionally, the Rangwali Pichora is paired with a lehenga or ghagra-choli and is adorned with heavy jewellery like naths (nose rings) and bangles.
The drape is often passed down through generations, reflecting the cultural heritage of the Kumaon region. Beyond weddings, it is also worn during other religious ceremonies like Karva Chauth, marking it as a key garment in a married woman’s wardrobe.
How Does the Traditional Men’s Attire in Uttarakhand Vary Between Garhwal and Kumaon?
Traditional men’s attire in Uttarakhand shows distinct regional differences between Garhwal and Kumaon. In Garhwal, the most common attire is the Dhoti and Kurta.
The dhoti is a long piece of cloth tied around the waist, paired with a loose-fitting kurta. This outfit, often worn during religious ceremonies and festivals, symbolizes simplicity and devotion.
In Kumaon, men often wear a Lungi and Kurta. The lungi, a loose cloth tied around the waist, is more relaxed and commonly used for daily activities.
Additionally, during weddings or formal occasions, both regions feature a kurta and churidar with a decorative turban. This reflects Uttarakhand’s blend of simplicity, functionality, and regional tradition.
What Are the Traditional Accessories Paired With Uttarakhand’s Female Dresses?
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Uttarakhand’s traditional female attire is incomplete without its unique and ornate accessories, especially jewellery.
The most iconic accessory is the nath, a large nose ring worn by Kumaoni and Garhwali brides, symbolizing marital status. Women also wear a variety of silver jewellery, including bangles, anklets, necklaces, and earrings, which are often heavy and intricately designed.
During weddings, women pair their Rangwali Pichora or ghagra-choli with these accessories, further enhancing the attire’s elegance. Other common accessories include the pichodi, a traditional necklace, and paayal (anklets).
The heavy jewellery complements the vibrant colours and embroidery of the clothing, adding layers of cultural and symbolic meaning, particularly during religious festivals and weddings.
How Has Modern Fashion Influenced Traditional Uttarakhand Clothing?
Modern fashion has subtly influenced Uttarakhand’s traditional clothing, especially in terms of fabric choices and design.
While traditional attires like the Rangwali Pichora, Dhoti, and Lehenga remain culturally significant, modern adaptations have made these outfits more practical for daily wear and contemporary tastes.
For instance, brides today might opt for lighter fabrics and simplified embroidery in their Pichora to enhance comfort during long ceremonies.
Similarly, men’s kurtas are now available in a variety of fabrics, including lighter cotton and linen, which suit modern preferences. While the essence of these attires remains intact, the fusion of modern aesthetics with traditional craftsmanship has made them more appealing to younger generations.
What Materials Are Commonly Used in Uttarakhand’s Traditional Garments?
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The traditional garments of Uttarakhand are made from locally sourced materials that suit the region’s diverse climate.
Cotton and silk are commonly used for women’s dresses, such as the Rangwali Pichora and Lehenga, especially during weddings and festivals. These fabrics are lightweight, breathable, and comfortable, making them ideal for the warmer regions of Uttarakhand.
In contrast, for colder areas, wool is a dominant material, particularly for garments like the Bakhu and Angarkha, worn by men and women alike. Wool provides warmth and durability, essential for the high-altitude regions.
Additionally, the woollen garments are often handwoven, reflecting the region’s artisanal craftsmanship and the practical needs of its people.
How Do Uttarakhand’s Traditional Dresses Reflect the Region’s Cultural Diversity?
Uttarakhand’s traditional dresses are a direct reflection of the cultural diversity between its two major regions, Garhwal and Kumaon, and the many tribal communities that inhabit the state.
For instance, women in Kumaon wear the Rangwali Pichora, a brightly coloured drape that symbolizes prosperity and is unique to their culture. In Garhwal, women often wear the Ghagra-Choli, which is widely used during festivals and religious events.
Similarly, the Bakhu, worn by the Bhotia tribe, is influenced by Tibetan culture, showcasing the blend of Himalayan traditions.
These differences in dress, from fabric choice to styling, highlight how Uttarakhand’s diverse geography and cultural heritage shape its clothing traditions, making them distinct yet interconnected.
Top 10 Uttarakhand Traditional Dress Male and Female
1. Rangwali Pichora (Female)
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The Rangwali Pichora is a vibrant traditional drape worn by Kumaoni women. It is most commonly seen during weddings and festivals. The Pichola is typically dyed in bright saffron or yellow and has intricate patterns embroidered in gold and silver, symbolizing prosperity and fertility. Married women wear this attire to reflect their cultural identity and pride.
It is particularly popular in the Kumaon region, and over time, the Pichora has become a symbol of a married woman’s role in traditional festivities and religious ceremonies.
Women often pair the Pichora with a lehenga and choli, adding various pieces of jewellery like large naths (nose rings) and bangles for a complete bridal look.
Rangwali Pichora Dress Features
Attribute | Details |
Dress Name | Rangwali Pichora (for women) |
Cultural Essence | Represents marital status and is worn during festivals and weddings in Kumaon |
Fabric & Material | Pure cotton or silk, often hand-embroidered |
Signature Design Elements | Bright yellow or saffron colours, intricate embroidery with silver or gold thread |
Styling & Drape Techniques | Draped around the body with pleats over the shoulder |
Event-Specific Wear | Primarily for weddings, Karva Chauth, and religious occasions |
Traditional Accessories | Heavy naths (nose rings), bangles, and anklets |
Historical Roots | Deeply rooted in Kumaoni wedding traditions |
Regional Influences | Primarily worn in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand |
Dominant Color Schemes | Yellow, saffron with gold or silver embroidery |
Modern Fashion Fusion | Modern brides incorporate lighter fabric variations and simpler designs |
Artisanal Craftsmanship | Hand-embroidered by local artisans in Uttarakhand |
Functional Comfort | Light and breathable fabric suitable for festive wear |
Symbolism & Meaning | Symbolizes prosperity, marital bliss, and religious devotion |
Heritage Celebrations | This is seen during major Kumaoni festivals like Harela and weddings |
Availability & Pricing | Available at local markets in Kumaon, ranging from affordable to premium |
2. Dhoti and Kurta (Male)
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The Dhoti and Kurta are the traditional attire for men in Uttarakhand, particularly in Garhwal. This simple, yet elegant, outfit consists of a long, loose-fitting kurta and a dhoti, which is wrapped around the waist and tied with pleats.
Often worn during religious ceremonies, weddings, and other cultural events, the dhoti-kurta combination signifies purity and devotion.
Traditionally, the dhoti is white or cream-coloured, symbolizing simplicity, and is often paired with a matching kurta. The kurta can be plain or embellished, depending on the occasion. Older generations continue to favour this attire, although younger men may adopt modern variations of the same.
Dhoti and Kurta Dress Features
Attribute | Details |
Dress Name | Dhoti and Kurta (for men) |
Cultural Essence | Worn during religious ceremonies, weddings, and festivals |
Fabric & Material | Cotton or silk, depending on the occasion |
Signature Design Elements | Simple, minimalistic, with a focus on comfort and tradition |
Styling & Drape Techniques | The dhoti is pleated and tied around the waist; the kurta is worn loosely |
Event-Specific Wear | Popular for religious festivals, weddings, and traditional ceremonies |
Traditional Accessories | Paired with a shawl or angavastram |
Historical Roots | A staple of Garhwali culture, symbolizing purity |
Regional Influences | Mostly worn in the Garhwal region |
Dominant Color Schemes | White or cream for the dhoti; kurta may have muted colours |
Modern Fashion Fusion | Some prefer embroidered kurtas for festive events |
Artisanal Craftsmanship | Locally woven fabrics from Uttarakhand |
Functional Comfort | Lightweight and breathable for everyday wear |
Symbolism & Meaning | Represents simplicity and spiritual devotion |
Heritage Celebrations | Worn during major festivals like Makar Sankranti and Holi |
Availability & Pricing | Widely available in traditional clothing stores across Uttarakhand |
3. Ghagra-Choli (Female)
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The Ghagra-Choli is a common festive outfit worn by women in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. The ghagra is a long skirt, usually made from heavy cotton or silk, while the choli is a fitted blouse.
This attire is often worn during festivals, fairs, and traditional ceremonies. The ghagra is usually adorned with bright colours and intricate embroidery, making it a significant part of the region’s cultural identity.
Paired with a dupatta, the ghagra-choli offers both style and comfort. Women also wear this ensemble with traditional silver jewellery, adding elegance to the entire outfit during important celebrations.
Ghagra-Choli Dress Features
Attribute | Details |
Dress Name | Ghagra-Choli (for women) |
Cultural Essence | Worn during fairs, festivals, and ceremonies in Garhwal |
Fabric & Material | Heavy cotton or silk with embroidery |
Signature Design Elements | Bright colours with detailed embroidery |
Styling & Drape Techniques | Paired with a dupatta draped over the shoulder |
Event-Specific Wear | Worn during cultural festivals, religious events, and weddings |
Traditional Accessories | Paired with silver jewellery such as necklaces and bangles |
Historical Roots | Reflects the vibrant culture of the Garhwali people |
Regional Influences | Primarily worn in the Garhwal region |
Dominant Color Schemes | Bright red, yellow, green, and blue |
Modern Fashion Fusion | Lighter fabrics with modern cuts for everyday wear |
Artisanal Craftsmanship | Hand-embroidered by local artisans |
Functional Comfort | Comfortable yet ornate for special occasions |
Symbolism & Meaning | Represents prosperity and joy during festive times |
Heritage Celebrations | Seen during Teej, Holi, and Garhwali weddings |
Availability & Pricing | Available in local markets and through Uttarakhand designers |
4. Sube or Chola (Male)
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The Sube or Chola is a traditional outfit worn by men in the tribal regions of Uttarakhand. It is a long, loose-fitting garment that provides warmth in the colder climates of the region.
Made from wool or thick cotton, the sube is especially popular among the tribes living in the high-altitude areas of Uttarakhand. The chola is often layered with other garments to offer extra protection against the cold.
This attire is highly practical and designed to suit the rugged and harsh conditions of the region. Traditionally, it is worn during local festivals, cultural ceremonies, and day-to-day activities by the tribal men of Uttarakhand.
Sube or Chola Dress Features
Attribute | Details |
Dress Name | Sube or Chola (for men) |
Cultural Essence | Reflects the rugged lifestyle of Uttarakhand’s tribal men |
Fabric & Material | Wool or thick cotton, ideal for cold climates |
Signature Design Elements | Simple, loose-fitting for ease of movement |
Styling & Drape Techniques | Worn over inner layers, often belted at the waist |
Event-Specific Wear | Common in festivals, cultural events, and daily wear |
Traditional Accessories | Paired with a woollen cap or shawl |
Historical Roots | Dates back centuries, worn by men in high-altitude areas |
Regional Influences | Primarily worn in tribal regions like Jaunsar and Bhotia |
Dominant Color Schemes | Earthy tones such as brown, grey, and black |
Modern Fashion Fusion | Rare, as it retains its traditional form due to practical use |
Artisanal Craftsmanship | Hand-stitched by local craftsmen using durable materials |
Functional Comfort | Provides warmth and comfort for daily activities |
Symbolism & Meaning | Represents the hardiness and resilience of the mountain people |
Heritage Celebrations | Worn during local tribal festivals and cultural celebrations |
Availability & Pricing | Found in local markets of high-altitude areas, priced affordably |
5. Lungi and Kurta (Male)
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The Lungi and Kurta is another traditional outfit for men in Uttarakhand, particularly in the Kumaon region. The lungi is a loose-fitting garment wrapped around the waist, paired with a simple kurta.
It is commonly worn for daily activities and provides a great level of comfort, especially in warmer weather. The kurta is often plain, made of cotton, and offers ease of movement for everyday tasks.
This attire reflects the practicality of rural life in Kumaon, where the lightweight fabric allows for freedom of movement. While the kurta is a staple across India, the lungi is specific to certain regions and remains popular among older generations in Uttarakhand.
Lungi and Kurta Dress Features
Attribute | Details |
Dress Name | Lungi and Kurta (for men) |
Cultural Essence | Casual wear for everyday use, reflecting rural lifestyle |
Fabric & Material | Lightweight cotton, often handwoven |
Signature Design Elements | Simple lungi with a straight-cut kurta |
Styling & Drape Techniques | Lungi wrapped around the waist, kurta worn over it |
Event-Specific Wear | Common for daily wear, informal events, and casual gatherings |
Traditional Accessories | Paired with a cotton scarf or gamcha |
Historical Roots | A long-standing attire in rural Kumaon, practical for daily life |
Regional Influences | Mostly worn in the Kumaon region |
Dominant Color Schemes | White, cream, or earthy tones for both garments |
Modern Fashion Fusion | Rare, as it remains a traditional rural outfit |
Artisanal Craftsmanship | Woven by local craftsmen in villages |
Functional Comfort | Light and breathable, suitable for hot weather |
Symbolism & Meaning | Represents simplicity and the agrarian lifestyle of the region |
Heritage Celebrations | Worn during informal social events in rural areas |
Availability & Pricing | Available in local markets, highly affordable |
6. Angarkha (Unisex)
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The Angarkha is a versatile garment worn by both men and women in Uttarakhand, especially in regions with cold weather. This outerwear, traditionally made from wool, serves as a protective layer against the chilly winds in the high-altitude areas.
The angarkha has long sleeves and a wrap-around style, often tied at the waist or chest. It is widely used during winter and is commonly seen in Garhwal and Kumaon.
This traditional outfit has been adapted over time, with modern variations now including lighter fabrics and embroidered designs. Despite these changes, the angarkha remains an important part of the region’s traditional clothing.
Angarkha Dress Features
Attribute | Details |
Dress Name | Angarkha (for both men and women) |
Cultural Essence | Symbolizes protection and warmth in Uttarakhand’s colder regions |
Fabric & Material | Typically made from wool or thick cotton |
Signature Design Elements | Wrap-around style with long sleeves |
Styling & Drape Techniques | Worn over other garments, tied at the waist or chest |
Event-Specific Wear | Mostly worn during winters and cold seasons |
Traditional Accessories | Paired with a woollen shawl or cap |
Historical Roots | A centuries-old attire for cold-weather protection |
Regional Influences | Popular in Garhwal and Kumaon |
Dominant Color Schemes | Earthy tones like brown, black, or grey |
Modern Fashion Fusion | Modern versions feature lighter fabrics and embellishments |
Artisanal Craftsmanship | Handcrafted by local artisans using wool |
Functional Comfort | Warm, comfortable, and easy to layer |
Symbolism & Meaning | Represents Uttarakhand’s mountainous lifestyle |
Heritage Celebrations | Commonly seen during winter festivals and events |
Availability & Pricing | Available in both traditional and modern versions, moderately priced |
7. Lehenga (Female)
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The Lehenga is a traditional outfit worn by women in the Jaunsar-Bawar region of Uttarakhand. This three-piece attire consists of a long, flowing skirt (lehenga), a fitted blouse (choli), and a dupatta.
The lehenga is typically brightly coloured and embroidered, making it perfect for festive occasions such as weddings and religious festivals. The vibrant hues and rich designs reflect the lively spirit of the local culture.
Women in this region pair their lehenga with heavy traditional jewellery, including silver anklets and large earrings. The Jaunsari lehenga is particularly admired for its craftsmanship and bold, intricate patterns.
Lehenga Dress Features
Attribute | Details |
Dress Name | Lehenga (for women) |
Cultural Essence | Worn during festivals and weddings in the Jaunsar-Bawar region |
Fabric & Material | Silk, cotton, and other heavy fabrics with embroidery |
Signature Design Elements | Bright, bold colours and intricate patterns |
Styling & Drape Techniques | Paired with a dupatta and worn with traditional jewellery |
Event-Specific Wear | Common during weddings, festivals, and religious ceremonies |
Traditional Accessories | Silver jewellery like anklets, earrings, and bangles |
Historical Roots | A staple in Jaunsari culture, reflecting vibrant craftsmanship |
Regional Influences | Predominantly worn in the Jaunsar-Bawar region |
Dominant Color Schemes | Red, yellow, blue, and green with heavy embroidery |
Modern Fashion Fusion | Modern lehengas use lighter fabrics and simpler designs |
Artisanal Craftsmanship | Hand-embroidered by skilled artisans in Uttarakhand |
Functional Comfort | Comfortable for special occasions but heavier than daily wear |
Symbolism & Meaning | Represents prosperity and joy during festivals |
Heritage Celebrations | Worn during local festivals and Jaunsari weddings |
Availability & Pricing | Available in local boutiques, ranging from mid to high-end pricing |
8. Sarong or Bakhu (Female)
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The Sarong, also known as Bakhu, is the traditional attire of the Bhotia women from Uttarakhand’s high-altitude regions. Strongly influenced by Tibetan culture, the Bakhu is a warm and practical garment made from wool, designed to protect the wearer from the cold.
It is a long, loose-fitting dress, often belted at the waist and paired with an inner blouse. This attire is particularly common in the Bhotia tribal communities, where the cold weather necessitates heavy clothing.
The Bakhu is often paired with woollen scarves, shawls, and caps for additional warmth, making it both functional and culturally significant.
Sarong or Bakhu Dress Features
Attribute | Details |
Dress Name | Sarong or Bakhu (for women) |
Cultural Essence | Reflects Tibetan influences and is worn in high-altitude regions |
Fabric & Material | Wool for warmth and durability |
Signature Design Elements | Long, loose-fitting with a belted waist |
Styling & Drape Techniques | Worn with an inner blouse and belted around the waist |
Event-Specific Wear | Common in daily wear and local tribal festivals |
Traditional Accessories | Paired with woollen scarves, shawls, and caps |
Historical Roots | Strong influence from Tibetan and Himalayan culture |
Regional Influences | Popular in Bhotia tribal communities in high-altitude areas |
Dominant Color Schemes | Dark, earthy tones like black, brown, and grey |
Modern Fashion Fusion | Minimal fusion as it remains a practical garment for cold climates |
Artisanal Craftsmanship | Handwoven by tribal artisans |
Functional Comfort | Warm and comfortable, suitable for cold weather |
Symbolism & Meaning | Represents the harsh and resilient lifestyle of the Bhotia tribes |
Heritage Celebrations | Worn during local tribal festivals and cultural events |
Availability & Pricing | Available in local markets, priced affordably due to its practical use |
9. Uttarakhand Wedding Attire (Male)
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The Uttarakhand Wedding Attire for Men varies by region but often includes a kurta, churidar, and a turban. In Garhwal and Kumaon, men typically wear white or cream-colored kurtas paired with a matching churidar.
The ensemble is often accompanied by a decorative turban, which adds a regal touch to the groom’s look. Depending on the region, the attire can be more elaborate with embroidered details.
For weddings, men also wear an angavastram or shawl, which adds to the formality of the outfit. This traditional attire symbolizes purity and is deeply rooted in the local customs and rituals of Uttarakhand weddings.
Uttarakhand Wedding Attire Dress Features
Attribute | Details |
Dress Name | Wedding Kurta and Churidar (for men) |
Cultural Essence | Worn during wedding ceremonies, symbolizing purity and tradition |
Fabric & Material | Silk, cotton, or blended fabrics with occasional embroidery |
Signature Design Elements | Simple kurta-churidar set with a decorative turban |
Styling & Drape Techniques | Churidar is tightly fitted at the ankles, turban tied elaborately |
Event-Specific Wear | Primarily for weddings and formal cultural events |
Traditional Accessories | Paired with a turban and angavastram or shawl |
Historical Roots | Part of the traditional wedding customs in Garhwal and Kumaon |
Regional Influences | Variations in embroidery and turban styles across regions |
Dominant Color Schemes | White, cream, or pastel shades for the kurta; vibrant colors for the turban |
Modern Fashion Fusion | Some grooms opt for designer sherwanis with traditional elements |
Artisanal Craftsmanship | Handcrafted kurtas with delicate embroidery by local artisans |
Functional Comfort | Comfortable and breathable for long wedding ceremonies |
Symbolism & Meaning | Represents purity, grace, and adherence to cultural traditions |
Heritage Celebrations | Worn during major wedding celebrations in Uttarakhand |
Availability & Pricing | Available through traditional clothing stores, ranging from affordable to luxury |
10. Uttarakhand Wedding Dress (Female)
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For women, the Uttarakhand Wedding Dress is traditionally the Rangwali Pichora, paired with a lehenga or ghagra-choli. The bridal lehenga is often vibrant, with intricate embroidery in gold or silver threads, reflecting the joy and celebration of the occasion.
The Rangwali Pichora, typically in bright saffron or yellow, is the most symbolic part of the outfit, representing marital bliss and prosperity.
The bride’s attire is completed with traditional jewellery such as naths (large nose rings), bangles, and necklaces. The entire ensemble is designed to be both elaborate and symbolic, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of Uttarakhand.
Uttarakhand Wedding Dress Features
Attribute | Details |
Dress Name | Rangwali Pichora with Lehenga or Ghagra-Choli (for women) |
Cultural Essence | Worn during weddings, symbolizing marital status and prosperity |
Fabric & Material | Silk or cotton lehenga, embroidered with gold or silver threads |
Signature Design Elements | Bright colours, gold zari embroidery, intricate designs |
Styling & Drape Techniques | Lehenga paired with a choli and Rangwali Pichora draped over the shoulders |
Event-Specific Wear | Primarily worn during weddings and Karva Chauth |
Traditional Accessories | Paired with heavy naths, bangles, and necklaces |
Historical Roots | Deeply embedded in Kumaoni wedding traditions |
Regional Influences | Popular in both Garhwal and Kumaon regions |
Dominant Color Schemes | Saffron, red, yellow with gold embroidery |
Modern Fashion Fusion | Modern brides opt for lighter fabrics and minimalist designs |
Artisanal Craftsmanship | Handcrafted by skilled artisans specializing in bridal wear |
Functional Comfort | Heavier due to the embroidery but comfortable for ceremonial wear |
Symbolism & Meaning | Represents prosperity, happiness, and marital bliss |
Heritage Celebrations | Worn during wedding celebrations, particularly in Kumaon |
Availability & Pricing | Available in local boutiques, ranging from mid-range to luxury |
Conclusion
The traditional dresses of Uttarakhand for both men and women represent the rich cultural diversity and heritage of the region.
From the vibrant Rangwali Pichora worn by Kumaoni brides to the practical Bakhu used by the Bhotia tribes, each outfit tells a story of the region’s customs, traditions, and way of life.
These garments not only provide comfort and functionality but also hold deep cultural significance, especially during festivals, weddings, and important ceremonies.
As the world moves toward modern fashion, these traditional attires continue to evolve while retaining their core essence, keeping Uttarakhand’s cultural identity alive.
FAQs
What is the most famous traditional dress of Uttarakhand?
The most famous traditional dress for women is the Rangwali Pichora in Kumaon, and for men, it’s the Dhoti-Kurta in Garhwal.
What is worn by men in Uttarakhand during weddings?
Men typically wear a kurta-churidar paired with a decorative turban for weddings, symbolizing formality and tradition.
What kind of jewellery is worn with Uttarakhand traditional dresses?
Women often wear naths (nose rings), bangles, necklaces, and anklets, usually made of silver, enhancing their festive attire.
What fabric is commonly used for traditional Uttarakhand clothing?
Common fabrics include cotton and silk for warmer regions and wool for colder, high-altitude areas like Bhotia tribal regions.
How are the traditional dresses of Uttarakhand influenced by the region?
Dresses vary between Garhwal, Kumaon, and tribal communities, reflecting the region’s geography, climate, and cultural practices.
Is traditional Uttarakhand clothing still worn today?
Yes, traditional clothing is still worn during festivals, weddings, and religious ceremonies, though modern variations are becoming popular.