Himachal is full of temple towns, but few come alive quite like Mandi does at Shivratri. For seven days each spring, this old town on the banks of the Beas turns into a swirling gathering of gods — hundreds of village deities carried in on decorated palanquins, drums echoing off the hills, and streets packed with pilgrims. If you happen to be staying up the valley in Naggar around late February or March, it is well worth the trip south.
What the fair is
The Mandi Shivratri Fair is a seven-day "international" fair that begins on the Hindu festival of Shivratri, in the month of Phalguna — which falls in February or March. In 2026 the festival is scheduled for the second half of February. It is centred on the town's guardian deity, Madho Rai (a form of Lord Vishnu), together with Lord Shiva of the ancient Bhootnath temple, whose presence gives the festival its name.
Why Mandi is called 'Chhoti Kashi'
Mandi is known as Chhoti Kashi, the "little Varanasi" of the hills, and for good reason: the old town is said to have around 81 temples. During Shivratri, the district administration formally invites more than 200 local deities from surrounding villages. Each arrives in a grand procession with its guru, musicians and devotees, and the festival opens with worship and the first Jaleb — a ceremonial procession of the gods through the town. Watching row upon row of palanquins converge is genuinely unlike anything else in the region.
What to expect
- Daily processions and deity gatherings around the Raj Madhav Rai temple and the Paddal ground.
- Folk music and Kullvi-style dance, craft and food stalls, and a lively fairground atmosphere in the evenings.
- Large, devout crowds — this is first and foremost a religious and cultural event, so dress modestly and be respectful around the deities and their bearers.
How to visit from Naggar
Mandi lies south of Naggar on the road towards Bilaspur and the plains — roughly a three to three-and-a-half hour drive down the valley, or a bus via Kullu. Because the festival draws big crowds, town accommodation in Mandi books out early, so many valley travellers prefer to keep a calm base up in Naggar and make Shivratri a long, memorable day out. If you'd like to wake up to quiet orchard views between festival days, Ghar in the Hills is a cosy homestay right in Naggar village.
Practical tips
Start early to reach Mandi before the day's main processions, carry cash for stalls and parking, and keep your belongings close in the crowds. Photography is generally welcome in the public processions, but always ask before photographing rituals or the deities up close. Winter lingers in February, so pack a warm layer for the drive back after dark.
Shivratri in Mandi is one of those rare festivals where an entire district's living deity tradition spills into the open for a week. Time your Kullu valley trip well and you'll catch it. Book your stay at Ghar in the Hills and let Naggar be your peaceful base for the festival season.