winter · January

Manali Winter Carnival

Ski, snow sculpture, and Kullu Nati under snowfall

Jan 2026: 2–6 JanuaryManali5 days
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Overview

Manali's oldest tourism festival — a 5-day winter carnival featuring skiing at Solang, snow sculpture competitions, traditional Kullu Nati dance, and a Winter Queen contest at Manu Rangshala.

History

Started in 1977 by HP Tourism to boost off-season travel. Now attracts 50,000+ visitors and doubles as a launch for the ski season at Solang Valley.

Schedule

Day 1

  • Colourful procession from Manu Temple to Mall Road
  • Inauguration + Kullu Nati

Day 2-3

  • Ski competitions at Solang
  • Snow sculpture contest at Vashisht

Day 4

  • Winter Queen contest
  • Local food festival at Van Vihar

Day 5

  • Prize distribution
  • Grand finale cultural night at Manu Rangshala

Venue

Mall Road & Manu Rangshala

Manali 175131

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Tickets

General entry

Free

Ski workshop (2 hr)

₹800

Nearby attractions

  • Solang Valley13 km
  • Hadimba Temple2 km
  • Vashisht Hot Springs3 km

Tips

  • Book snow-view rooms early — old Manali fills first.
  • Snow chains for taxis are mandatory to Solang; check with your driver.
  • Layer up: temperatures range -5°C to 8°C with wind chill.

FAQs

Is Manali Winter Carnival worth attending?

Yes if you want cultural performances + snow activities in one trip. Otherwise Solang skiing runs Dec-Feb regardless.

Does it snow during the carnival?

Usually yes — early January is peak snowfall in Manali. But guaranteed snow is only at Solang (2,560m).