Culinary competition at IHM Kufri highlights traditional recipes, indigenous ingredients and the growing role of food in tourism.
The HIM Aanchal Chefs Association (HIMCA), in collaboration with the Indian Federation of Culinary Associations (IFCA) and the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs/WACS), organised Culinary Competition 2026 at the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Kufri, Shimla to mark World Tourism Day and celebrate the rich culinary traditions of Himachal Pradesh.
Held under the theme “Celebrating Himachali Culinary Heritage”, the event sought to showcase the authenticity and diversity of the state’s cuisine while encouraging chefs, culinary students and hospitality professionals to preserve traditional recipes, indigenous ingredients and regional cooking practices. Organisers highlighted the importance of connecting younger generations with Himachal’s culinary roots at a time when interest in regional food traditions and culinary tourism is gaining momentum across India.
Addressing participants, Chef Nand Lal Sharma, President of HIMCA and DGM (Consultant F&B), HPTDC, said the initiative was aimed at safeguarding Himachal Pradesh’s traditional culinary knowledge while motivating young chefs to take pride in their heritage and give Himachali cuisine the recognition it deserves.
Echoing similar sentiments, Chef Surinder Sharma, General Secretary of HIMCA, noted that Himachali cuisine represents far more than recipes alone. According to him, the region’s food culture reflects its geography, communities, customs and generations of culinary wisdom. He emphasised the need for emerging chefs to understand these roots and confidently promote Himachali cuisine on national and international platforms.
The competition brought together chefs, culinary professionals, hospitality stakeholders and students, creating a platform for learning, skill development and cultural exchange. The event also reinforced the growing relationship between food and tourism, with organisers positioning local cuisine as a key component of destination branding and visitor experiences.
Through the initiative, HIMCA aims to strengthen Himachal Pradesh’s identity as a culinary tourism destination while demonstrating how local food traditions can serve as powerful expressions of history, culture and community. As regional cuisines increasingly gain recognition among travellers, competitions such as these play an important role in preserving culinary heritage while inspiring future generations of chefs.
Get real time update about this post category directly on your device, subscribe now.
