Nestled in Himachal Pradesh’s picturesque hills, Manali’s Winter Carnival 2026 is underway with pomp and splendor, promising five days of non-stop cultural immersion. From interstate folk dances to intricate tableaux, the event celebrates India’s multifaceted heritage, attended by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu as the distinguished chief guest.
The carnival’s core mission is to nurture Himachal’s traditions, folk arts, and cultural identity, transforming public spaces into vibrant showcases. Tourists and locals alike were mesmerized by performers decked in authentic attire, parading through lively streets.
Speakers among the artists championed traditional winter fare. One noted, ‘Our focus this year is on ancestral recipes—wholesome, organic foods that sustained generations without chemicals or drugs. Adopting them today means stronger bodies and less medicine dependency for kids and seniors alike.’
Others voiced urgency in conserving cultural practices. ‘We’re reviving crafts from austere pasts—spinning threads, milling grains, weaving ropes at home. It’s our duty to prevent their extinction and pass on this wisdom to the next generation,’ an artist implored.
Excitement rippled through tourist throngs. Shubham Mittal, visiting from Mathura-Vrindavan with his spouse, gushed, ‘Snow was the plan, but this carnival exceeded expectations. Mall Road’s alive with tradition-clad revelers, delectable snacks, and heartfelt welcomes. The women’s processions preaching sobriety and virtue were a highlight.’
Beyond the festivities, the event underscores sustainable tourism, blending economic uplift with cultural revival. As Manali glows under carnival lights against Himalayan backdrops, it reaffirms its status as a premier winter destination.