Minjar Fair

Himachal Pradesh is a state renowned for its panoramic natural beauty and finds a reason to celebrate every benison that life offers through its fairs and festivals that promote social, cultural, educational or religious causes. Minjar Fair is possibly the most recognized and celebrated fair of the state.

Minjar Fair commences on the 2nd Sunday of the rainy monsoon months, locally known as the Sawan month and culminates on the 3rd Sunday of July or August. The fair is celebrated in Himachal Pradesh's Chamba town to commemorate the triumph of Raja of Chamba over his antagonist, the Raja of Kangra.

The weeklong celebrations take place at 'Chowgan', a lush fair grown in Chamba. As its etymological connotation signifies, Minjar or maize flowers along with a coconut, a rupee or a coin of a lesser denomination, a fruit and a few paddy grains are offered to the rain God, the all-powerful Lord Varuna. It has generally been accepted that the fair started in the 10th century A.D. under the generous patronage of Raja Sahil Verman.


The colorful and exuberant Minjar festival is an ideal place for traders, merchants and the local people to buy and sell goods. Tourists strike a good bargain and pick up excellent souvenirs, memorabilia and exotic pashmina shawls at remarkably affordable rates.

A captivating performance by the cultural troupes from the neighboring states and the inter-state sports carnival are the talking point of the annual Minjar Fair.

For further information on Minjar fair, contact:

• District Administration
  Phone :01899-224847

Last Updated on : 20 March 2011