By Jomotel | Celebrating Himachal’s Colors, Culture & Spirit
Himachal Pradesh isn’t just about misty hills and apple orchards — it’s also a land of vibrant traditions, colorful fairs, and age-old festivals. From snow-clad temple processions to valley-wide carnivals, each celebration here blends faith, folklore, and festivity.
If you’re planning your 2025–2026 travels, here’s your insider guide to the most iconic festivals and events in Himachal — complete with cultural highlights and travel tips to experience them the local way.
1. Kullu Dussehra — The Valley of Gods Comes Alive
When: October 1–7, 2025 (tentative)
Where: Dhalpur Maidan, Kullu
Unlike the rest of India, where Dussehra ends with the burning of Ravana, Kullu celebrates the beginning of the festival. Hundreds of deities from nearby valleys arrive in palanquins, and the entire town transforms into a divine carnival.
Highlights:
- Grand procession of local gods (devtas)
- Traditional Nati dance and music
- Handicraft stalls and local cuisines
Pro Tip: Book your stay in advance — Jomotel Dayaar (Kufri/Theog) makes a perfect base for day trips to Kullu and nearby hill trails.
2. Mandi Shivratri — The Maha Mahotsav
When: February 25–March 2, 2025
Where: Mandi Town, Beas River Valley
Known as the “Mahakumbh of the Hills,” this festival gathers over 200 village deities who visit the historic Bhootnath Temple.
Highlights:
- Shivratri fairs, folk performances, temple bells, and processions
- Local Himachali food stalls and handmade jewelry
- Late-night aarti by the Beas River
Don’t Miss: The lighting ceremony at Bhootnath Temple — a mesmerizing view for photographers.
3. Minjar Fair — The Golden Corn Festival
When: July 20–27, 2025
Where: Chamba
Minjar, named after a silk tassel offered to the river, marks the celebration of harvest season and friendship.
Highlights:
- Flower-decked processions and folk dances
- The symbolic immersion of Minjar in the Ravi River
- Local fairs and traditional Himachali Dham
Travel Tip: Combine your Chamba visit with nearby Khajjiar — the “Mini Switzerland of India.”
4. Lavi Fair — The Historic Trade Festival
When: November 11–14, 2025
Where: Rampur (Near Shimla)
Dating back to the 17th century, Lavi Fair is one of Himachal’s most important trade events — a living symbol of Indo-Tibetan friendship.
Highlights:
- Yak and horse trading
- Woolen shawls, carpets, apples, and handmade goods
- Folk music, dance, and local delicacies
Best For: Travelers interested in Himachal’s heritage and local markets.
5. Winter Carnival — Manali in Celebration Mode
When: January 2–6, 2026
Where: Manali
A snowy wonderland mixed with cultural festivities — the Manali Winter Carnival welcomes the new year with music, skiing, and street parades.
Highlights:
- Himachali dress competitions & dance shows
- Ski races, snow games, and folk performances
- Local food & craft bazaars
Insider Tip: The carnival coincides with peak snow season — ideal for family trips and honeymooners staying at Jomotel Talai or nearby luxury retreats.
6. Phulaich Festival — The Festival of Flowers
When: September 10–14, 2025
Where: Kinnaur
Known as the “Festival of Flowers,” Phulaich celebrates the bounty of nature and the local gods. Villagers collect flowers from high mountains and offer them in temple rituals.
Highlights:
- Traditional flower processions
- Folk songs & dances in ornate costumes
- Authentic Kinnauri feasts
Best Time: September, when Kinnaur’s valleys are in full bloom.
7. Sazo Festival — Welcoming the Gods to Heaven
When: January 15, 2026
Where: Kinnaur & Sangla
This ancient festival marks the day when local deities “ascend to heaven.” Villagers purify homes, light bonfires, and offer food to the gods.
Cultural Insight: A beautiful blend of Buddhist and Hindu customs unique to the Kinnaur region.
Travel Tips for Festival Lovers
- Book early: Major events like Kullu Dussehra and Winter Carnival attract large crowds.
- Respect local customs: Many festivals are sacred — avoid loud music or intrusive photography.
- Pack warm clothes: Even during spring events, Himachal evenings can be chilly.
- Stay local: Choose eco-friendly stays like Jomotel Talai or Jomotel Dayaar for authentic pahadi hospitality.
Experience Himachal’s Spirit — With Jomotel
At jomotel, every stay connects you to the local rhythm — from festival trails to authentic Himachali cuisine.
Plan your 2025–2026 Himachal journey with us, and celebrate the mountains, their people, and their timeless traditions.
Travel. Celebrate. Stay Jomotel.
