Himachal Pradesh Named Among World’s Top Ten Most Welcoming Regions, Bir Crowned Most Welcoming City in India for 2026

Written By: Jishnoo Banerjee

Jishnoo Banerjee

A published author with over 9 years of experience in writing, poetry, and novel creation. Starting out on social media, Jishnoo gained recognition for engaging content in both English and Bengali. With a strong background as a news content writer, Jishnoo now contributes to a prestigious global travel magazine. Known for blending creative writing with journalism, the work seamlessly combines artistic expression with insightful reporting across different platforms.

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February 4, 2026 6:50 PM

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Himachal Pradesh has proudly secured a spot in the top 10 of the world’s most welcoming regions, according to the 2026 Booking.com Traveller Review Awards. This marks the third consecutive year that Himachal Pradesh has been recognized as India’s most welcoming region. The region continues to captivate travelers with its awe-inspiring Himalayan landscapes and a rich tradition of hospitality that defines the essence of Indian warmth.

Himachal Pradesh Shines Globally for Hospitality Excellence

The 2026 Traveller Review Awards, powered by over 370 million verified reviews from travelers worldwide, spotlight the regions and cities that consistently offer exceptional hospitality and service. Himachal Pradesh’s inclusion among the top 10 most welcoming places on Earth underscores its status as a travel destination that makes every guest feel at home.

The “Land of the Gods” continues to impress both domestic and international travelers, with its unique blend of serene mountain retreats, luxurious resorts, and cozy homestays. The region’s hospitality partners are celebrated for their ability to create personalized experiences that make each stay memorable, ensuring that visitors leave with a lasting impression of Himachal’s natural beauty and welcoming spirit.

Bir Emerges as India’s Most Welcoming City

For the second year in a row, Bir in Himachal Pradesh has been named the Most Welcoming City in India. Known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant Tibetan culture, Bir offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. The city’s warm hospitality, coupled with its pristine environment, makes it a preferred destination for both local and international travelers.

Bir’s consistent recognition as a welcoming city reinforces its charm, with its community-driven spirit and commitment to providing an authentic travel experience. Mararikulam in Kerala and Jaisalmer in Rajasthan followed Bir on the list of India’s most welcoming cities, reflecting the diverse range of warm, hospitable destinations across India.

Significant Increase in Traveller Review Award Recipients

In 2026, a record number of 17,575 travel partners across India received the coveted Traveller Review Award, a notable increase from the 15,674 winners in 2025. The rise in award recipients highlights the growing importance of hospitality in India’s tourism sector. Of these, hotels led the list with 6,650 award-winning properties, followed by homestays (2,652), apartments (1,984), resorts (1,338), and guest houses (1,218).

The increase in award recipients reflects the country’s increasing focus on offering diverse, personalized, and memorable travel experiences, with a focus on customer satisfaction and quality service across all accommodation types.

A Global Perspective: Italy Leads, India Shines

Globally, Italy continues to lead the charge for the ninth consecutive year, with 214,666 award-winning partners. France and Spain followed closely behind, with 170,596 and 152,292 winners respectively. The global recognition of regions like Himachal Pradesh not only highlights the warmth of Indian hospitality but also positions the country as a top destination for travelers seeking authentic, personalized experiences.

In India, regions like Kerala and Goa also made their mark on the list of the most welcoming places, following Himachal Pradesh. These areas reflect India’s diversity, offering travelers a wide range of experiences, from serene hill stations to vibrant coastal retreats.

Himachal Pradesh: A Hub for Unique Accommodation Types

Himachal Pradesh is celebrated not only for its natural beauty but also for its diverse accommodation offerings. From quaint homestays nestled in the mountains to luxurious five-star resorts offering world-class amenities, the region offers something for every traveler. Its dedication to hospitality ensures that whether you are in a remote village or a bustling town, you will experience a warmth and authenticity that sets Himachal apart from other destinations.

The region’s focus on creating unique travel experiences, combined with a commitment to maintaining the region’s cultural integrity, has contributed to its recognition on the global stage.

Booking.com’s Recognition of Hospitality Excellence

The Booking.com Traveller Review Awards celebrate accommodation providers, car rental companies, and airport transfer suppliers who consistently exceed guest expectations. To be eligible for an award, accommodation partners had to maintain an average review score of 8.0 or higher, based on at least three reviews, while car rental partners had to achieve a score of 8.0 based on at least 10 reviews.

The awards, which celebrate excellence in digital advertising, marketing innovation, and impactful campaigns, highlight the significant role hospitality plays in shaping the travel industry. Himachal Pradesh’s inclusion in this prestigious list reflects the region’s dedication to providing unparalleled guest experiences.

Himachal Pradesh Continues to Lead the Way

Himachal Pradesh’s third consecutive recognition as India’s most welcoming region and its spot in the top 10 most welcoming regions globally is a testament to the region’s exceptional hospitality and commitment to delivering memorable travel experiences. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and unmatched warmth, Himachal Pradesh remains a beacon of welcoming hospitality for travelers worldwide.

Source: Booking.com