There is something about the mountains that instantly makes travellers feel at home, and Himachal Pradesh seems to have perfected that feeling. With its peaceful landscapes, warm locals and relaxed pace of life, the hill state has once again been recognised for its hospitality. In 2026, Himachal Pradesh was named the Most Welcoming Region in India for the third consecutive year, further cementing its reputation as one of the friendliest travel destinations of the country.
The recognition comes from Booking.com’s 14th annual Traveller Review Awards, which analyse guest feedback from across the globe. This year, Himachal Pradesh didn’t just top the list in India; it also secured a place among the Top 10 Most Welcoming Regions on Earth, sharing the global stage with destinations from Europe, North America and Southeast Asia.
The rankings were based on more than 370 million verified traveller reviews, making them one of the most comprehensive hospitality surveys in the world. Among Indian regions, Himachal Pradesh was the only one to make it into the global top 10. Other states that featured in the broader national list included Kerala and Goa, both known for their welcoming tourism culture.
In the cities category, Bir in Himachal Pradesh held on to its title as India’s Most Welcoming City for the second year in a row. The peaceful town, popular for paragliding and mountain views, was followed by Mararikulam in Kerala and Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. Several other Indian regions and cities also appeared in the rankings, including Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Puducherry, Assam, Karnataka and Haryana.
Himachal Pradesh’s charm lies in its diversity. The state offers a wide range of experiences, from lively tourist towns to quiet mountain villages. Shimla’s Mall Road buzzes with cafés, shops and colonial charm, while Manali continues to attract adventure seekers with activities like skiing, rafting and trekking. For those looking for spiritual and cultural experiences, places such as Dharamshala, McLeodganj, Manikaran and Chamba offer peaceful surroundings and deep-rooted traditions.
Nature lovers are drawn to destinations like Dalhousie, Khajjiar, Shimla, Manali and Kasol, where scenic landscapes and relaxed vibes define the travel experience. The state also offers several lesser-known gems for travellers seeking offbeat adventures. Chitkul, Jibhi, Shoja, Barot Valley and Pabbar Valley provide quiet retreats away from crowded tourist routes.
For trekking and outdoor enthusiasts, regions such as Kullu, Manali, Dharamshala and Kinnaur offer stunning trails and breathtaking views. These destinations combine natural beauty with local hospitality, creating experiences that keep visitors coming back.
With consistent global recognition and glowing traveller reviews, Himachal Pradesh continues to stand out as a place where visitors feel welcomed, relaxed and connected to nature. Its blend of adventure, spirituality and scenic beauty ensures that the state remains one of the most loved travel destinations, not just in India but across the world.
