Himachal Pradesh Fairs and Festivals
Himachal Pradesh is like a canvas with vivid colours showing its fairs and festivals. Age-old customs and traditions of the state are best reflected during the festive season. The joyous and vibrant voices fill the air with happiness and everyone enjoys the fairs and festivals. Almost every month the people of Himachal Pradesh have a reason to celebrate.
Famous Fairs and Festivals of Himachal Pradesh are:
Dussehra Festival
Kullu is known for its Dussehra celebrations. It falls in October every year and shows the religious side of the state with ten day long festivities. Its great to see the rituals performed during the festival. International Folk festival is an important part of the Dussehra festival. Cultural activities are organized during the festival and the beautiful handicrafts of Himachal Pradesh are also showed. It is truly a delightful experience to participate in this festival.
Ice Skating Carnival
Shimla and Dalhousie are two places where this adventure filled festival is held in December. The festival sees ice skating, ice hockey, fancy dress competition and dance performances.
Lohri or Maghi Festival
Celebrated annually in January, Lohri is an agricultural festival that brings out folk songs and dance culture of the state.
Himachal Winter Carnival
In February, Manali starts luring travellers with the celebrations of Himachal Winter Carnival. During this time, tourists not only enjoy the beauty of the place but also get an opportunity to participate in its entertaining winter carnival. Many winter sports and competitions like 'winter queen' are held during the festival.
Lossar Festival
It is a known Buddhist festival of Himachal Pradesh held in the month of November/December. Prayers are offered to a local deity for well being and prosperity. The festival marks the beginning of the Tibetan year and is attended by all locals and many travellers.
International Himalayan Festival
The advent of the winters brings with it the wonderful International Himalayan Festival. The festival is celebrated enthusiastically for three days in the mesmerizing Mcleodganj.
Some of the other fairs and festivals celebrated in Himachal Pradesh are Char, Shiaratri, Holi, Balasundari Fair, Dhungri Mela, Kaza Fair, Mani Mahesh Yatra, Ladarcha Utsav, Nanda Devi Fair etc.
