Manali | January 2026
The scenic hill town of Manali came alive with colour, music, and cultural pride as Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu formally inaugurated the National-Level Winter Carnival 2026, marking the beginning of one of the state’s most celebrated tourism events.
Held in the heart of the tourism capital of Himachal Pradesh, the carnival attracted visitors from across the country and abroad, reaffirming Manali’s status as a premier winter destination in India.
300+ Cultural Floats Highlight Himachal’s Rich Heritage
A Visual Celebration of Tradition and Festivity
More than 300 vibrant and creatively designed tableaux rolled through the streets of Manali, offering a spectacular glimpse into Himachal Pradesh’s diverse culture, age-old traditions, folk arts, and festive spirit.
The colourful procession showcased:
- Traditional dances and music
- Regional customs and attire
- Local craftsmanship and heritage themes
The event successfully presented Himachal’s cultural richness on a national and international platform, drawing appreciation from tourists, artists, and cultural enthusiasts alike.
₹250 Crore Riverfront Project Announced for Manali
A Major Step Toward World-Class Tourism Infrastructure
During the inauguration, Chief Minister Sukhu announced a ₹250 crore riverfront development project aimed at transforming Manali into a world-class tourism destination.
The ambitious project will focus on:
- Beautification and sustainable use of riverbanks
- Enhancing tourist experience with eco-friendly infrastructure
- Strengthening Manali’s global tourism appeal
Officials stated that the riverfront project will be planned with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and long-term urban resilience.
Focus on Flood Protection, Parking, and Landslide Mitigation
Infrastructure Development with Public Safety at the Core
In addition to the riverfront initiative, the state government also decided to fast-track several critical development works, including:
- Flood protection measures to safeguard river-adjacent areas
- Improved parking facilities to ease traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons
- Landslide mitigation projects to enhance safety in vulnerable zones
- Upgradation of public amenities for residents and visitors
These initiatives aim to create a safer, more accessible, and tourist-friendly Manali while addressing long-standing infrastructure challenges.
Tourism, Environment, and Employment: A Balanced Vision
Sustainable Growth as the Government’s Core Policy
Chief Minister Sukhu reiterated that the state government remains firmly committed to promoting tourism, environmental conservation, and local employment simultaneously.
He emphasized that:
- Tourism development must align with ecological balance
- Local communities should receive direct economic benefits
- Himachal’s natural beauty must be preserved while enabling growth
“Our goal is to ensure that development does not come at the cost of the environment. Preserving Himachal’s natural identity while creating livelihood opportunities is our priority,” he said.
Manali’s Journey Toward Global Tourism Recognition
Long-Term Vision for Himachal Pradesh
With continuous investments in sustainable tourism infrastructure and cultural promotion, the state government aims to position Himachal Pradesh as a memorable and globally competitive tourism destination.
The Winter Carnival 2026 stands as a symbol of this vision—blending tradition with progress and celebration with responsibility.