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FESTIVALS · HIMACHAL PRADESH · AUGUST

Himachal Pradesh festivals in August.

4 festivals this month — dates, locations, and travel tips.

Ladarcha Fair

Keylong

Historic trade fair in Keylong where merchants from Ladakh, Spiti, and Kullu once exchanged wool, salt, and dry fruits; now a cultural festival with yak dances and Lahauli music.

August (varies)

Ladarcha Fair

Kaza

Historic trade fair that once drew traders from Tibet, Ladakh and Kinnaur. Now a 3-day cultural festival at Kaza with archery, chaam mask dances, and a wool-barter market.

Mid-August (dates announced annually)

Malana Village Fair

Kasol

The ancient village of Malana — which claims to be the world's oldest democracy — holds its annual fair with rituals at the Jamlu Devta temple and village council assembly.

August 15 (Independence Day)

Manimahesh Yatra

Manimahesh Kailash

Sacred pilgrimage to Manimahesh Lake (4,080m) at the foot of Mount Kailash in Bharmour region, coinciding with Krishna Janmashtami. Thousands of devotees trek to the holy lake. Bharmour hosts a fair with local customs and rituals.

August 16 - September 19 (Janmashtami to Radha Ashtami, lunar calendar)

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