Previously a princely state, and subsequently a Union Territory of Independent India, Tripura was elevated to the status of a state on January 21, 1972.Tripura is mainly a hilly territory with altitudes varying from 50 to 3080 ft above sea level, though the major population of the state lives in the plains. Characterized by moderate temperatures and highly humid atmosphere, Tripura is best visited after the south west monsoons in October. Today, Tripura is largely a Bengali community, in spite of the 19 Scheduled Tribes, that form a major chunk of the population. Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism,and Christianity are the main religions followed in Tripura. The tribals, with a rich and varied culture, belong mainly to the Reang, Chakma, Halam and Usai communities. The majority of tribals live in elevated houses of bamboo called 'Tong'. Music and dance are an integral part of Tripura. Joy and sorrow are marked by dances, that mirror the myriad emotions of the people. Garia dances held for the prosperity of the people during Garia Puja; dances of the Reang community; 'Bizu' dances by the Chakmas denoting the end of the Bengali calendar year; 'Hai Hak' dances of the Halam community; and the Cheraw dance associated with the confinement of Lusai woman, are evidence of the Tripuran passion for dance. 'Basanta Raas' is the charming dance of the Hindu Manipuris, in Tripura. Tripura has a lot to offer to the tourists. Agartala, the picturesque capital, with its beautiful palaces, gardens, hills, temples and lakes, scenic Tirthamulkh with its lakes; waterfalls and reservoir are all worth visiting. Pilak Pather and Lungthung are virtual treasure troves for those, historically inclined. Jampol hills, Rudrasagar and Neer Mahal the lake cities , Sepahijala the wildlife sanctuary, are the other major places of interest in this tiny state.