The book looks at the vernacular architecture and traditional development in the hills through vitally crucial state of Himachal Pradesh. It documents and dwells upon the traditional construction techniques like the Kath-Kuni technique, amongst others. The book very skillfully tries to weave together the importance of vernacular of the hills with its integral relationship with sustainability.

The authors also look at the changing architectural character of its most important city Shimla and stress the need as to why the lost heritage and wisdom of the tradition not be restored.