While most of India burns Ravana on Vijayadashami, the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh begins its week-long Dussehra precisely when others end theirs — a unique, deity-centred festival. This HinduTone guide is a guide to Kullu Dussehra 2026, the International Festival of Himachal.

Kullu Dussehra begins on Vijayadashami (20 October 2026) and continues for about seven days — there is no Ravana effigy burning here; the festival centres on the gathering of village deities.

What Makes Kullu Dussehra Unique

  • It starts on Vijayadashami, when Dussehra ends elsewhere, and lasts about a week
  • Hundreds of village devtas (deities) are carried in palanquins to Kullu to pay homage to Lord Raghunath (Rama)
  • The grand Rath Yatra of Lord Raghunath through Dhalpur Maidan opens the festival
  • No Ravana Dahan — the focus is the assembly of deities and cultural festivities

The Tradition

Kullu Dussehra honours Lord Raghunathji, the presiding deity of the valley. The deities of surrounding villages travel to the Dhalpur ground for the festival, creating a spectacular convergence of palanquins, music and devotion that has earned it international fame.

Visitor Guide

  • When: from Vijayadashami, 20 October 2026, for about a week
  • Where: Dhalpur Maidan, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh
  • Highlights: the Raghunath Rath Yatra, the deity assembly, and cultural performances
  • Tips: book accommodation early; enjoy the valley’s autumn beauty

Share the Vijayadashami 2026 blessing

Vijayadashami celebrates the victory of dharma, of light over darkness. As commonly told, Maa Durga overcame Mahishasura and Lord Rama defeated Ravana on this blessed day. In the Kullu Valley, the devtas of a hundred villages gather to honour Lord Raghunath, reminding us that devotion grows stronger when we come together. In that same spirit, send a heartfelt Dussehra blessing to your family and friends today, and let the joy of this sacred victory reach every home you hold dear.

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Shami shloka for Vijayadashami

शमी शमयते पापं शमी शत्रुविनाशिनी। अर्जुनस्य धनुर्धारी रामस्य प्रियदर्शिनी॥

Shami shamayate papam shami shatru-vinashini, arjunasya dhanurdhari ramasya priyadarshini.

Meaning: The Shami tree takes away sin and destroys enemies; it held Arjuna's bow and is dear to Lord Rama. Many families recite this while offering Shami (Jammi) leaves on Vijayadashami.

Rama mantra to chant on Dussehra

रामाय रामभद्राय रामचन्द्राय वेधसे। रघुनाथाय नाथाय सीतायाः पतये नमः॥

Ramaya ramabhadraya ramachandraya vedhase, raghunathaya nathaya sitayah pataye namah.

Meaning: Salutations to Rama, to Ramabhadra, to Ramachandra the creator, to the lord of the Raghu clan, to the husband of Sita.

Vijayadashami 2026 messages to share

Happy Vijayadashami to our dear family! 🪔 May this sacred day fill our home with light, our hearts with love and our days ahead with peace and togetherness. Share on WhatsApp

Dear Maa and Papa, your love is my greatest blessing. This Dussehra I pray that Lord Rama keeps you healthy, happy and smiling always. Pranam and happy Vijayadashami! 🙏 Share on WhatsApp

Like the devtas who gather in Kullu to honour Lord Raghunath, may our friendship always bring us together in joy. Wishing you a blessed and happy Dussehra! 🌸 Share on WhatsApp

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Wishing you a happy Vijayadashami! May this auspicious day bring fresh energy to your work, success to your efforts and harmony to everyone around you. Share on WhatsApp

Jai Maa Durga! 🔱 May the Divine Mother who triumphed over Mahishasura give you strength to overcome every obstacle and fear. Happy Vijayadashami to you and your family. Share on WhatsApp

As Lord Raghunath's chariot rolls through Kullu, may Lord Rama's blessings of truth and courage roll into your life. Happy Dussehra and Jai Shri Ram! 🏹 Share on WhatsApp

A short Vijayadashami prayer

Lord Rama, ever-righteous protector, and Maa Durga, Mother of strength, I bow to you on this Vijayadashami. Please give me the courage to walk the path of dharma, the wisdom to see what is right, and the patience to face life's difficulties with a steady heart. Bless my family with unity and keep our home free from anger, fear and negativity. May your grace guide every step we take.

Use the share buttons on this page to send these blessings to your family and friends.

Also read: Hindu festival news October 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When does Kullu Dussehra 2026 start?

Kullu Dussehra 2026 begins on Vijayadashami, Tuesday 20 October 2026, and continues for about seven days in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh.

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Why is Kullu Dussehra different from Dussehra elsewhere in India?

It begins on Vijayadashami, when Dussehra ends elsewhere, and lasts about a week. There is no Ravana effigy burning; the festival centres on the gathering of village deities who come to honour Lord Raghunath.

Who is Lord Raghunath in Kullu Dussehra?

Lord Raghunathji, a form of Lord Rama, is the presiding deity of the Kullu Valley. The festival honours him, and his grand Rath Yatra through Dhalpur Maidan opens the celebrations.

Where is Kullu Dussehra celebrated?

The festival is held at Dhalpur Maidan in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh. Hundreds of village devtas are carried there in palanquins, creating a spectacular gathering of music and devotion.

Is there Ravan Dahan at Kullu Dussehra?

No. Kullu Dussehra has no Ravana effigy burning. Its focus is the assembly of village deities, the Raghunath Rath Yatra and cultural performances.

What should visitors know before going to Kullu Dussehra 2026?

Plan to visit from 20 October 2026 for about a week, book accommodation early because the valley fills with visitors, and take time to enjoy Kullu's autumn beauty alongside the Rath Yatra and cultural programmes.

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