# Festivals of Himachal Pradesh

The Big Ones

Kullu Dussehra (October)

India's most famous Dussehra celebration — and it's completely unique. While the rest of India burns Ravana effigies, Kullu celebrates the victory of Lord Raghunath with a massive week-long fair. Over 200 local deities are carried in ornate palanquins from villages across the valley to the Dhalpur Maidan. The procession, music, and energy are remarkable. Start date: Vijaya Dashami (varies yearly). Duration: 7 days.

Minjar Fair, Chamba (July-August)

A 1,000-year-old harvest festival celebrating the silk corn (minjar). The weeklong fair features a spectacular procession of local deities, folk dances, and handicraft exhibitions. On the final day, "minjar" offerings are floated down the Ravi River. One of the oldest continuously celebrated festivals in India.

Losar Festival, Spiti/Lahaul (January-February)

Tibetan New Year celebrated with devil dances (cham), prayers, feasting, and community gatherings in the monasteries of Spiti and Lahaul. Key Monastery and Tabo Monastery are the best places to experience it. The monks perform elaborate masked dances that depict the triumph of good over evil.