Mussoorie Winterline Carnival 2025 - Mussoorie Food Festival

• Start Date: 25 December 2025

• Duration: 6 days

• Venue: Mall Road, Municipal Garden, Company Garden & nearby public spaces

• Entry: Free

The Mussoorie Winterline Carnival 2025 started on 24th December 2025 and runs through 29th December 2025, offering six full days of celebrations. The Winter Line Carnival is organised annually to promote winter tourism and showcase Mussoorie as one of the top winter destinations in Uttarakhand, similar to places featured in our guide on Top places to visit in Uttarakhand in winter

The Winterline Carnival is an annual winter festival celebrating Mussoorie’s stunning natural Winter Line phenomenon — a rare atmospheric optical effect visible from hilltop viewpoints — along with local culture, food, music and activities. Over the years, this event has become one of the most anticipated Mussoorie events in the Uttarakhand tourism calendar. The festival is designed not just as a tourist attraction, but also to showcase the cultural events in Mussoorie Winterline Carnival, boost local economy, and promote the traditional heritage and hospitality of the hills. 

The carnival was formally inaugurated with great enthusiasm, featuring a colourful procession, band performances, and festive decor across iconic Mussoorie spots such as Gandhi Chowk, Shaheed Sthal, Municipal Garden and Landour. Visitors flocked in large numbers right from the opening day, enjoying folk dance, music performances, local arts and street spectacles as part of this winter-time celebration. 

A major highlight of the celebrations is the Uttarakhand Food Festival, running for three days during the carnival. This special food fiesta invites tourists to savour authentic Uttarakhand cuisine, Garhwali delicacies and fusion treats across multiple Uttarakhand food stalls. This food festival helps preserve our traditional recipes and also introduces them to a wider audience.

The food festival at the Winterline Carnival is a major attraction, showcasing the best of Uttarakhand's cuisine alongside international flavors. Renowned chefs and food bloggers like  Anubhav Sapra, chef Smriti Hari etc gather to share their culinary expertise and innovations.

Pahadi Uttarakhand Cuisine 

Garhwali cuisine is known for its simplicity and flavor, featuring ingredients like lentils, rice, and seasonal vegetables. Visitors can savor traditional dishes such as "Kafuli," a spinach-based dish, "Chainsoo," made from black gram, and "Aloo Ke Gutke," a spicy potato dish.

Local vendors at the festival are showcasing the true taste of Uttarakhand by serving authentic dishes rooted in the region’s rich culinary heritage. From wholesome millet-based recipes and warming mountain soups to traditional favourites like bhatt ki dal, Mandua breads, and locally inspired desserts, the food reflects the essence of Pahadi flavours. Beyond the culinary delights, visitors are treated to immersive cultural experiences, including vibrant folk dance performances, live music, engaging culinary storytelling sessions, and interactive cooking demonstrations that bring Uttarakhand’s traditions to life.

The event was inaugurated by the cabinet minister Ganesh Joshi,  state leadership, highlighting the government’s focus on expanding winter tourism and creating year-round attraction points in the state. The carnival is seen as a boost to hospitality, culture and overall Mussoorie tourism.  The administration, including local ministers and officials, has worked to ensure facilities, crowd management, security and seamless execution of all carnival activities. 

Cultural & Musical Extravaganza

The Mussoorie Winterline Carnival is a vibrant showcase of cultural events, reflecting the rich heritage of Uttarakhand. From traditional dances to contemporary performances, there's something for everyone. The festival features a mix of performances by popular and local artists, including live music, folk dances, and cultural showcases at central venues — making it one of the most colourful Mussoorie attractions during winter. 

Outdoor & Nature Activities

• Nature walks and bird-watching

• Photography competitions

• Treasure hunts

• Stargazing sessions.

Who’s Participating?

• Local folk artists & performing groups. 

• Popular musicians and bands like Pandavas’, Meena Rana, Gajendara Rana, Karishma shah, Kishan Mahipal, and many other state and national Artists.

• Food experts, celebrity chefs and food bloggers (including special food bloggers meet Uttarakhand).

• Artisans, storytellers and cultural ambassadors. (Check Schedule)
  

Thanks to the Winterline Carnival, Mussoorie tourism sees a surge during the festive week, with popular spots like Mall Road, Lal Tibba, Camel’s Back Road and Landour buzzing with visitors. The carnival — combined with the rare Winter Line phenomenon — offers travellers a unique wintertime experience in the hills. 

Hotels, local markets, food stalls and transport services enjoy increased business as crowds flock to witness the festivities and seasonal attractions, making the carnival an important part of Uttarakhand’s winter tourism strategy.

The Mussoorie Winterline Carnival 2025 is more than just a seasonal event — it’s a celebration of nature’s marvels, cultural pride, heritage flavours and community spirit. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, culture seeker or adventure enthusiast, this annual carnival offers something unique to everyone visiting the Queen of Hills this winter.

Plan your winter getaway to Mussoorie and enjoy this spectacular blend of festival fever, mountain beauty and culinary delights!

Source 1 - Times of India

Source 2 - Time of India