Himachal Pradesh Claims Top 5 Spot in Global Hospitality Rankings
Himachal Pradesh has emerged as the fifth most welcoming region on Earth, according to Booking.com’s Traveller Review Awards 2026. The hill state is the only Indian destination to break into the global top 10, beating over 100 regions worldwide in a ranking based on 370 million verified traveller reviews.
The recognition highlights what many travelers already know—Himachal isn’t just about scenic mountains and adventure sports. It’s the warmth of the pahadi people, the chai served with genuine smiles at roadside dhabas, and the locals who treat visitors like family that set this destination apart.
What Makes Himachal Pradesh So Hospitable?
Booking.com analyzed real guest experiences to identify places where hospitality goes beyond service. Himachal Pradesh scored high because its people genuinely care about making visitors feel at home. Whether you’re staying at a luxury resort in Shimla or a budget homestay in Spiti, hosts go the extra mile.
“It’s not just about ticking off tourist spots,” says frequent Himachal traveler Priya Mehta from Delhi. “The locals remember your name, share stories over bonfires, and make you want to return—not for the places, but for the people.”
The state ranked fifth globally, with Hidalgo in Mexico taking the top spot. Other regions in the top 10 include Newfoundland and Labrador (Canada), Navarra (Spain), and Idaho (United States). Himachal Pradesh outranked popular destinations like Sachsen in Germany and Phang Nga in Thailand.
What Are the Best Places in Himachal Pradesh?
The state’s diversity makes it appealing to every type of traveler. Adventure seekers flock to Manali’s Solang Valley for paragliding and skiing, while Shimla’s Mall Road offers a blend of colonial charm and bustling markets.
Spiritual travelers find peace in Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj, home to Tibetan monasteries and the Dalai Lama’s residence. The quiet lanes, prayer flags fluttering in mountain breeze, and meditation centers create a calming atmosphere that’s hard to replicate.
For offbeat explorers, Lahul and Spiti offer rugged terrain, high-altitude villages, and landscapes that feel otherworldly. Kinnaur’s apple orchards and Kasol’s riverside cafes attract those seeking slower, more immersive experiences.
Why Hospitality Matters in Travel
Landmarks fade from memory, but human connections last. A destination’s hospitality can transform a good trip into an unforgettable one. When locals share their culture, recommend hidden spots only they know about, and genuinely care about your experience, you form emotional bonds with the place.
This is where Himachal Pradesh excels. Travelers consistently report feeling valued and welcomed, whether they’re backpackers on a shoestring budget or families on luxury holidays. The state’s tourism infrastructure has grown, but the pahadi culture of atithi devo bhava (guest is god) remains intact.
The Complete List of Most Welcoming Regions 2026
Here’s how the top 10 stacks up:
- Hidalgo, Mexico
- Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
- Navarra, Spain
- Idaho, United States
- Himachal Pradesh, India
- Sachsen, Germany
- Phang Nga, Thailand
- Overijssel, Netherlands
- Epirus, Greece
- Chiriquí, Panama
Booking.com also released a separate list of Most Welcoming Cities, topped by Montepulciano in Italy, with destinations from Japan, Argentina, and Namibia making the cut.
Planning Your Himachal Pradesh Trip
If this recognition has you adding Himachal to your 2026 travel list, you’re joining millions who’ve discovered that the best part of visiting isn’t just what you see—it’s how you’re treated. From the moment a homestay owner serves you homemade siddu (local bread) to the shopkeeper who refuses extra payment because “mehman hai aap,” the hospitality is genuine.
The state offers year-round appeal. Summers bring relief from plains’ heat, monsoons paint valleys green, autumn offers clear skies and festivals, while winters transform it into a snow-covered wonderland.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, spirituality, or simply a place where people make you feel like you belong, Himachal Pradesh delivers. And now, the world agrees.
