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Shivratri fair of Mandi is one of the most colourful state fairs of Himachal Pradesh.
This fair is held in the month of Phalguna (February/March) on the Krishna Chaturdashi or the 14th day of waning moon and continues for eight to ten days.
According to the legend, the Shivratri fair of Mandi was started by Raja Ajber Sen 300-400 years ago at Purani Mandi.
There was no other temple of Lord Shiva except that of Trilok Nath built by Raja Ajber Sen.
Thereafter, many Shiva temples were built in the town.
On the Shivratri day, a colourful procession is taken out.
Madhorai, the presiding deity leads the procession followed by the Raja during the state times and by the high dignitaries after independence.
This procession is preceded by a party of musicians who play on the traditional musical instruments like Hiran Singha, Karnal, Dhol and Nagara.
The gods, goddesses and deities are brought to this place from the various parts of the district to pay their homage to the deity Madhorai.
The dancing devotees and other hill folks in their colourful dresses follow the procession.
The procession terminates at Padal ground.
Various cultural programmes are also held during the nights where parties from various parts of the district and even from outside of the district give their performances.