Mandi town is a exotic Tourism destination for all kinds of visitors. The historic town of district Mandi (800 m) is situated along the banks of the river Beas. It has a rich culture and history represented by its temples which are major tourist draw. Mandi is an important trading center situated on the Pathankot-Kullu road. Mandi town is also a famous tourism place in Himachal Pradesh, India. The town is also the gateway to Himachal's most famous valleys - Kullu, Manali, Lahaul and Spiti. Mandi is also on the Kullu-Shimla road via Bilaspur. It is the headquarters of the town. The entire town has a huge sprinkling of hundreds of old / new beautiful temples. Mandi town with its ancient temples drapes itself in color and flare for Shivratri, a weeklong celebration held every year. Also a time when hundreds of local deities carried by human bearers in elaborately decorated palanquins congregate to join the festivities.

All the Devi’s and Devta’s cast in precious metals riding in their palanquins are dressed with flowing and colorful fabrics. When swayed in rhythm to a lively drum beat by the accompanying folk bands, these deities participating in the merriment is a spectacle to be hold. On entering the town, they make their first call at the Madho Rai Temple and then proceed to pay obeisance to Lord Shiva at the Bhootnath Temple.

Grand parade of men wearing colorful turbans, cultural evenings, exhibitions, sports and savory dhams (local dishes served in a leafy platter) along with the gathering of deities makes Mandi Shivratri a religious and cultural crowd puller for locals and tourists alike.

In mid April, Baisakhi is celebrated with much fanfare across the town with many trekking to the snow laden mountains top holy lake at Prashar. Many village fairs are also held for the occasion where wrestling bouts, dancing and archery competitions are a big attraction. Well connected by road to other tourist destinations including Manali, Dharamshala, Palampur, Shimla and the major cities of Chandigarh and Delhi, Mandi can be commuted locally by bus and taxi.

Languages used :

Residents of Mandi usually use Mandyali, the local dialect, in their everyday communication.

Clothing essentials :

In summer, Mandi can get hot and sticky like the Indian plains, making cotton clothing the preferred choice, but in winter the mercury can dip to sub 5-degree Celsius and heavy woolen clothing is essential.

Popular Foods :

• Dham
• Madra
• Babru
• Siddu
• Kaale Channe Ka Khatta
• Tibetan Thukpa
• Mittha
• Tudkiya Bhath