When we talk about Himachal Pradesh, the first images that may come to mind are the sparkling snow-covered mountains, stunning peaks, and picturesque landscapes. This region is home to popular hill stations such as Shimla and Manali, as well as famous winter destinations like Spiti Valley. While Himachal Pradesh is celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty, it also offers rich culture, food and history. And now, the state has received another significant recognition: it was named one of the Most Welcoming Regions on Earth for 2026 by Booking.com’s Traveller Review Awards. Remarkably, Himachal Pradesh is the only Indian state to feature on this prestigious list.
Also Read: Hidden Beauty In Himachal Pradesh: 10 Unexplored Places
Booking.com, a leading platform in travel, annually announces the Traveller Review Awards, now in its 14th year, highlighting outstanding hosts who provide exceptional hospitality. With over 370 million verified reviews from travelers worldwide, the awards cover a vast array of travel partners. In 2026, 1.81 million hospitality providers across 221 countries will be honored for their commitment to excellent service. This includes nearly 1.8 million accommodation providers, close to 2,000 rental car companies, and over 130 airport transfer services.
In the ranking of the Most Welcoming Regions, Himachal Pradesh proudly claimed the fifth spot, joining other noteworthy locations such as Hidalgo in Mexico, Newfoundland and Labrador in Canada, and Idaho in the United States. Here’s the list of 2026’s Most Welcoming Regions on Earth:
- Hidalgo, Mexico
- Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
- Navarra, Spain
- Idaho, United States
- Himachal Pradesh, India
- Sachsen, Germany
- Phang Nga, Thailand
- Overijssel, Netherlands
- Epirus, Greece
- Chiriquí, Panamá
What To Know About Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh, known as the “Land of the Gods,” is a stunning destination with snow-capped mountains and lush valleys. The best time to visit is from March to June for trekking or from December to February for winter activities. Key spots include Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, and Spiti Valley.
