Handicrafts, Carpets - Himachal Pradesh

Shamshi, located in the scenic Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, is a hub of traditional Himachali handicrafts. Surrounded by lush mountains and the Beas River, this village is home to the famous Bhutti Weavers Cooperative (Bhuttico) and skilled artisans producing world-renowned Kullu shawls, carpets, and other handicrafts. It serves as a cultural and craft destination for visitors interested in authentic Himachali artistry.

About

Shamshi is a village in Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh, situated near Bhuntar. It is recognized for its role in preserving and promoting the rich handicraft traditions of the region.

Description

The Bhuttico cooperative, founded in 1944, has made Shamshi famous for producing high-quality handwoven woollens. The products showcase bright geometric designs, fine wool or pashmina material, and centuries-old weaving techniques.

Speciality

Kullu hand-woven shawls

Woollen carpets and rugs

Mandri mats (made from paddy straw)

Cane crafts: Kilta (basket), Patari (grain basket)

Address

Shamshi, Kullu District, Himachal Pradesh – PIN 175126

Location (Latitude & Longitude)

31.633307° N, 77.349993° E

Visiting Timings

9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (typical shop/workshop hours; confirm locally)

Traveling Facilities

Road: NH-3 (Delhi–Chandigarh–Bhuntar–Kullu route)

Local transport: Taxi and auto-rickshaw from Bhuntar and Kullu

Food Facilities

Local eateries and dhabas in Shamshi and Bhuntar

Restaurants and cafés in Kullu town

Stay Facilities

Hotels, guesthouses, and homestays in Bhuntar (3 km) and Kullu (6 km)

Nearby Visiting Places

Khokhan village & Adi Brahma Temple (4 km)

Great Himalayan National Park (trekking & nature)

Bijli Mahadev Temple (trek & panoramic views)

Nearby Railway Station

Pathankot Railway Station (broad gauge; connected by road)

Joginder Nagar Railway Station (narrow gauge; connected by road)

Nearby Airport

Kullu–Manali Airport, Bhuntar (3 km)

Nearby Bus Station

Bhuntar Bus Stand (3 km)

Kullu Bus Stand (6 km)

Bus Routes to Industry

Delhi → Chandigarh → Bhuntar → Shamshi (HRTC & private buses)

Dharamshala/Kangra → Bhuntar → Shamshi

Train Routes to Industry

Pathankot → Joginder Nagar (narrow gauge) → Road to Bhuntar → Shamshi

Chandigarh/Kalka → Shimla (toy train) → Road to Bhuntar → Shamshi

Airways to Industry

Flights from Delhi, Chandigarh, Dharamshala to Bhuntar Airport → Taxi to Shamshi

Preferable Visiting Season

April to October (pleasant climate and cultural events)

Nearby Shopping Famous For

Kullu Shawls

Woollen Carpets & Rugs

Mandri Mats

Cane Baskets (Kilta, Patari)

Shamshi in Kullu is more than just a weaving center; it is a living heritage of Himachal Pradesh. Its shawls, carpets, and crafts carry centuries of tradition, skill, and cultural pride. A visit here offers travelers a blend of art, nature, and local culture making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Himachal Pradesh.