Have you seen bizarre photographs depicting figures dressed like bride and groom walking through snow-dusted Himachali villages? That could be evidence of the Raulane Festival — an age-old spring ritual from Kinnaur district now going viral across India.
For travellers exploring Kalpa and upper Kinnaur — whether through a Kalpa Kinnaur Tour Package or an extended Himachal circuit — Raulane offers a rare glimpse into the region’s authentic cultural identity.
What looks like a “mystical parade” is actually a deeply rooted ceremony passed down through generations.
What Is the Raulane Festival?
The Raulane Festival is a traditional spring ritual of Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh, performed annually in villages around Kalpa. It is a cultural ceremony where two local men dress as:
- Raula – groom
- Raulane – bride
Both are fully covered, wearing elaborate costumes, masks, and jewellery.
Visitors booking Kalpa Kinnaur Tour Packages during spring often hear about this unique cultural ritual as one of its hallmark events — yet remain non-touristic in approach.
Where Is Raulane Celebrated?
The festival is celebrated in:
📍 Kalpa & Nearby Villages (Kothi region), Kinnaur District
These areas are often included in a Kalpa Kinnaur Tour Package, known for their heritage temples, apple orchards and traditional wooden homes.
📍 Nagin Narayan Temple
This ancient temple is the centre of the ritual, where the main performances and dances take place.
When Does Raulane Take Place?
There is no fixed date, but it is usually held:
- In late winter or early spring
- Soon after Holi
Many travellers visiting Kinnaur around March through various Kinnaur Tour Packages can sometimes witness the ritual if they are present on the exact dates confirmed by locals.
Why Does the Raulane Festival Happen?
Documented reasons include:
1. Marks the End of the Suskar Festival
2. Ritual Worship of Local Deities
The Raula–Raulane symbolise sacred figures tied to seasonal cycles.
3. Celebrates Renewal Before Spring Crops
The ritual is strongly connected to the start of the agricultural season.
4. Strengthens Community Bonds
Raulane is not a tourist attraction — but travellers exploring the valley through a Kalpa Kinnaur Tour Package often find it adds depth and meaning to their journey.
How Is Raulane Performed?
Here is the accurate, documented sequence:
1. Selection of Raula & Raulane
- Two men are chosen from different neighbourhoods
- Selection rotates each year
2. Dressing & Traditional Costumes
Raulane (Bride)
- Silk and woollen Kinnauri clothes
- Heavy jewellery
- Veils and floral headdresses
Raula (Groom)
- Woollen attire
- Face fully covered
- Ritual dagger (Rakas)
3. Procession Through the Village
- Slow walk
- Traditional music
- Villagers dancing
- Protective masked figures like Zannpundulu
4. Dance & Prayer at Nagin Narayan Temple
A solemn ritual dance is performed as villagers gather in a semicircle formation.
5. Blessings & Closing
Priests offer prayers for prosperity and safe seasonal transitions.
Why Raulane Went Viral in 2025
1. Stunning Visuals
Masked figures, snow-covered mountains and traditional jewellery caught global attention.
2. The Rare “Male Bride” Visual
3. Cultural Authenticity
The festival isn’t staged — making it powerful and raw.
4. Rise of Offbeat Himalayan Travel
Travellers searching for Kalpa Kinnaur Tour Packages or lesser-known rituals are driving high search interest.
Is Raulane Open for Tourists?
Yes — you may witness it, but:
- Maintain distance
- Do not obstruct pathways
- Ask locals before taking close-up photos
- Respect temple space
It is sacred and not commercialised.
How to Visit Kalpa (If You Wish to Witness Raulane)
Most travellers choose curated routes through a Kinnaur Tour Package, which typically covers:
- Shimla → Reckong Peo → Kalpa
- Kalpa → Roghi → Kothi Village
- Apple orchards and high viewpoints
- Heritage temples and Kinnauri cultural spots
Road Access
Shimla to Kalpa is 220 km and open most of the year except during heavy snowfall.
Best Time
February–April for cultural experiences
May–October for scenic Kinnaur road trips
Top Places to See Around Kalpa During Raulane Season
- Nagin Narayan Temple
- Kothi & Roghi Villages
- Chakka Meadows Viewpoint
- Suicide Point Road (famous cliff views)
- Local apple orchards
These are commonly featured in most Kalpa Kinnaur Tour Packages.
FAQs About Raulane Festival
1. Is Raulane part of Holi?
It happens after Holi but is its own independent ritual.
2. Why are both roles played by men?
It is part of local tradition.
3. Can I visit during the festival?
Yes, but respectfully — it’s not a tourist performance.
4. Which packages include Kalpa during spring?
Most reputable operators offer Kalpa Kinnaur Tour Packages covering Kalpa, Sangla, Chitkul and nearby villages.
Final Word: Raulane & Travel Planning
The Raulane Festival highlights Kinnaur’s raw cultural heart – something travellers often miss in popular tourist spots. Its recent viral popularity demonstrates a growing desire to discover Himachal beyond the mainstream tourist spots, traditional wooden temples and living Himalayan culture.
If you’re heading to Himachal in 2025, planning an organized Kinnaur or Kalpa Kinnaur Tour Package could help ensure a pleasant journey while respecting its traditions.