Traditional Dress of Uttarakhand Men & Women

Uttarakhand, the scenic state in the Himalayas, is known not only for its scenic beauty but also for its unique culture. The dress style reflects the different geographic locations, climate characteristics, and cultural traditions around Uttarakhand. Daily clothing for women and men may have become westernized, but cultural and ceremonial dress is still relevant.  

Traditional Dress for Women
Women's dress in Uttarakhand is regionally based, primarily Kumaon - Garhwal. 

Garhwali Women:
Garhwali women will wear a Ghagri (long skirt), along with an Odhni (scarf or veil) and a blouse. For rituals and celebrations, the Garhwali dress highlights a Pichora; it's a yellow-orange dupatta with a red dot/ and generalized embroidery, often used in celebrations and no different for weddings.

Kumaoni Women: 
Kumaoni women will wear a similar outfit; however, the draping of the saree/scarf is different than the Garhwali dress. There are forms of traditions as well, one being a Rangwali Pichora, full of colourful embroidery, indicating symbolism, such as swastikas, bells, and the sun. 

Jewelry plays a vital role in traditional attire. Ornaments such as nath (nose ring), paunje (anklets), chura (bangles), and mangtikka (forehead jewelry) add to the grace of their appearance.

Traditional Attire for Men
In Uttarakhand, it is customary for men to wear a Kurta (long tunic) with Churidar or Pyjama. In Garhwal, the Sadri (a waistcoat) is often worn on top of the Kurta. Cold areas consider woolen Angora caps and woolen shawls as part of regular dress.

Men wear a Dhoti-Kurta or a Kurta-Churidar with a traditional cap (topi) to formal occasions like marriages, festivals, and religious events. This symbolizes respect for their culture and heritage. In many sections of Uttarakhand, particularly for older people, the taanka will be worn during winter months (traditional warm woolen overcoat).

Cultural importance of traditional clothing
It is important to point out that costumes in Uttarakhand correlate with customs and way of life, as well as festivals. The fabric, cut, and colors of the cloth used also have deeper significance. Even now, on occasions like marriages, festivals, and religious functions, people wear their traditional dress and therefore keep the conventional clothing alive.