Shimla Food Carnival

Shimla

The Food Carnival, held alongside the SARAS Fair at Shimla’s historic Ridge Ground, has become a major tourist attraction while providing sustainable livelihoods for rural women across Himachal Pradesh. Organised under the Government of India’s Rural Livelihood Programme, the ten-day event showcases authentic Himachali cuisine and handmade products, drawing large crowds. Over 100 women from self-help groups manage multiple stalls, with 17 food stalls run by more than 50 women serving traditional hill dishes like Kangri Dham, Hamirpuri Dham, Bilaspuri Dham, and local delicacies from Kinnaur to Lahaul-Spiti.

Tourists from across India have praised both the food and the initiative. Arun Gupta from Uttar Pradesh called the carnival “a wonderful effort to provide employment to rural women,” while Rakesh Bahadur Singh from Banaras said it filled a gap for local cuisine seekers.

Participants from all 12 districts of Himachal Pradesh are taking part, gaining confidence, income, and exposure. Rita Thakur from Nirmand Block, Kullu, said the carnival has given women a platform to promote traditional dishes like Siddu while earning to support their families.

According to organiser Sakshi Sharma, the food stalls alone have recorded sales exceeding ₹10 lakh in just a few days. The initiative also focuses on skill development, teaching women to interact with customers and showcase Himachal’s culture effectively.

Alongside food, handicraft stalls, including Chamba chappals and HIMIRA products, are drawing visitors, highlighting the state’s rich cultural diversity. The carnival strengthens the link between tourism, traditional cuisine, and women’s empowerment, making it a key attraction in Shimla this season.