Himachal Pradesh Ranked Among World's Most Welcoming Places, Says New Report

Himachal Pradesh has been named one of the world's 10 "most welcoming places" in the latest edition of the Traveller Review Awards released by Booking.com. The hill state has been featured on a list with destinations across Europe and other parts of the world, recognised for consistently positive guest experiences. The rankings are based on verified traveller reviews collected over the past year. Specifically, the "Most Welcoming Places on Earth" lists highlight destinations "where the guest experience feels personal, authentic, and genuinely cared for," according to Booking.com.

Why Himachal Pradesh Stands Out

Within India, Himachal Pradesh emerged as the Most Welcoming Region for the third year in a row, ahead of Kerala and Goa. The town of Bir in Kangra district was also named the Most Welcoming City in India for the second consecutive year, followed by Mararikulam in Kerala and Jaisalmer in Rajasthan.

Photo Credit: Unsplash

In the context of Himachal topping the India list, Booking.com stated, "Celebrated for its unique blend of breathtaking Himalayan landscapes and a deeply ingrained spirit of hospitality, the 'Land of the Gods' continues to leave a lasting impression on the travel community. From cosy mountain homestays to luxury retreats, the region's hospitality partners consistently go above and beyond, ensuring travellers experience the genuine warmth and local character that defines Himachal Pradesh."

Why Visit Himachal Pradesh

Set in the western Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh has long attracted travellers from around the globe. What sets the state apart is not just its landscapes, but the range of experiences packed into relatively short travel distances. From lower hill towns to high-altitude deserts, the terrain shifts dramatically:

• Pine-covered valleys and colonial-era hill stations in regions like Shimla and Kasauli
• Alpine meadows and trekking routes in Kullu and Lahaul
• Cold desert landscapes beyond the Rohtang-Keylong belt

This variety allows travellers to combine relaxed sightseeing with adventure-based travel in a single trip.

A Strong Culture Of Homestays And Local Hosting

Himachal was among the early adopters of homestays in India, particularly in rural and semi-remote areas. Many villages supplement farming incomes through tourism, offering visitors home-cooked regional food, insights into local customs and festivals, and smaller, low-impact stays compared to large resorts. This community-led approach has shaped how visitors experience the state, often resulting in longer stays and repeat visits.

All-Season Appeal

Unlike destinations tied to a narrow travel window, Himachal draws visitors year-round:

• Summer: respite from heat in hill towns and forested valleys
• Monsoon: quieter travel, greener landscapes (with weather caution)
• Autumn: clear skies and trekking season
• Winter: snow tourism and winter sports in select regions

Why Visit Bir

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Bir, located in Kangra district, has evolved from a quiet village into one of North India's most distinctive travel hubs, without losing its small-town character. Bir, along with nearby Billing, is internationally known for paragliding and has hosted several global competitions. For travellers, this translates into:

• Tandem flights suitable for beginners
• Certified schools offering short and long courses
• Clear flying conditions for much of the year
• Even non-fliers often find the sight of colourful gliders overhead part of Bir's charm.

A Centre For Slow, Mindful Travel

Beyond adventure, Bir has become a magnet for travellers seeking quieter experiences. Contributing to the same are Tibetan monasteries, meditation centres, yoga schools, short-term retreats, as well as cafes and guesthouses designed for long stays and remote work. The presence of the Tibetan settlement has also shaped Bir's food, festivals and cultural calendar.

Walkable, Low-Key And Community-Driven

Unlike many crowded hill towns, Bir remains compact and largely walkable. Visitors often highlight easy access to trails, monasteries and cafes, a strong homestay culture with locally run properties, and a mix of Indian and international travellers, without mass tourism pressures.  For many, Bir works best as a place to slow down: whether for a weekend between flights or a longer stay combining nature, activity and reflection.

Plan your trip to Himachal Pradesh soon!