Manali Fairs and Festivals


Manali is an idyllic hill station whose stunning views attract droves of tourists all round the year. The cultural extravaganzas of the panoramic valley are manifested in the numerous Manali fairs and festivals.



One of India's widely celebrated festivals, Dussehra is celebrated with tremendous pomp and grandeur to mark the triumph of good over evil. The celebrations of the festival, where effigies of the diabolic emperor Ravana are burnt to pay a tribute to Lord Rama's victory, has an added flavor in Manali valley. The week long ceremony is a fusion of the cultural attributes and religious fervor.

Another celebrated festival is the Pipal Jatra or the Vasantotsava that commences on the 16th day of Baisakh, meaning summer in the Indian calender. The fairgrounds of Kullu's Dhalpur host this carnival where song and dance shows and colorful stalls provide the enjoyment quotient.

Shamshi Virshu is yet another significant festival that is celebrated on the 13th of April. The fair is essentially endowed with a religious and mythological character. The local inhabitants gather at the congregation spot of the erstwhile hermits and sages who flock to worship the local goddess.

Another highlight of the Manali fairs and festivals, the Mela Bhuntar is a three day long gala affair celebrated in the hamlet of Bhunter. The festival started at the initiative of Devta of the ilaqua Suraj Pal and is primarily celebrated to thank the benevolent deities for their benediction, owing to which a flourishing harvest is obtained.