India’s five must-see festivals and where to experience them
Witness Indian culture at its most authentic with visits to some of the country’s most impressive religious and cultural celebrations.
With its rich blend of regional cultures, faiths, and traditions, India’s exceptionally diverse cities promise fascinating exploration at every turn. From Holi, the vibrant festival of colours, to lantern-lit Diwali, there are plenty of celebrations held every year which offer a glimpse of the traditions that underpin the nation’s rich cultural landscape.
While these festivals can be found in households and towns across the country, some spots stand out for their unique ways of celebrating. Better still, alongside our trusted partners at Distinct Destinations, we’re proud to offer award-winning tours which coincide with some of these magnificent celebrations. Whether you’ve been dreaming of ‘playing Holi’ with locals or want to experience a lesser-known regional celebration, here are five events you won’t want to miss.
1. Holi in Jaipur
India’s springtime festival of colours is a common sight on social media, but for many travellers, the meaning and traditions behind it are often lesser known. Symbolising the arrival of spring and the divine love between Krishna and Radha, these celebrations can be enjoyed all over India’s northwest, but the country’s Golden Triangle cities offer a more structured experience.
Jaipur, the magnificent ‘Pink City’, tops the list when it comes to Holi celebrations. While exploring this magnificent sandstone city, you’ll find locals and day-trippers alike mingling and ‘playing Holi’ – throwing bright gulal powder and water over each other in a kaleidoscope of colours. Many vendors around the city offer free bags of gulal powder, but you’ll be more than welcome to spectate, and perhaps get a splash of colour yourself, from the sidelines.
Our recommended tour: India – Tigers & the Taj Mahal
2. Diwali in Delhi
Diwali, the autumnal festival of light, sees towns across India and Nepal illuminated by lantern light. While it’s mainly known as a Hindu celebration, which commemorates the spiritual victory of Dharma (light) over Adharma (darkness), the subcontinent’s Jainist, Muslim, and Sikh communities also mark the occasion with their own variations. If you’re keen to experience this five-day festival at its most picturesque, though, there really is only one choice.
Delhi, the striking national capital, is perfect for an introduction to the festivities with intricate rangoli patterns adorning the floors and doors, and the warm glow of diyas (oil lanterns) lighting the streets.
Our recommended tour: India & Nepal – Tigers, Taj & Temples
3. Pongal in Madurai
In Tamil Nadu, the winter solstice is marked by Pongal, with locals taking part in bonfire-building, outdoor cooking, and the grooming of cattle (which are sacred in Hindu culture) to usher in prosperity for the coming year. One of the region’s most historic cities, Madurai, is particularly memorable at this time of year and promises a truly immersive introduction to the mid-winter traditions. While in the city, try a hearty bowl of Pongal, a porridge made of rice and lentils, watch the bathing, painting, and veneration of bulls in the street and soak up the buzz of the festival.
Our recommended tour: Kerala & India’s Beautiful South
4. Onam in Kerala
Onam, Kerala’s regional 10-day harvest festival, takes place at the start of August and represents the start of the local Malayalam new year. Those in Kochi celebrate with grand parades, made up of traditional festival floats and displays which depict local folklore and Keralan culture, while others across the region dress their homes with Pookkalam (flower carpets). In the south, special Vallamkali (snake boat races) are held and you’re likely to witness at least one traditional ‘Tiger Dance’, in which performers are painted in red and orange ahead of traditional dance displays. No matter where you celebrate, Onam is a must-see for visitors to Kerala.
Our recommended tour: Highlights of India – From the Golden Triangle to Kerala
5. Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai
Though it’s observed by Hindus across the world, Ganesh Chaturthi, is most impressive in the state of Maharashtra. This event, which celebrates the birth of the elephant-headed god of wisdom and new beginnings, ranges from private family-led affairs to grand processions through the streets and nowhere does it quite like coastal Mumbai. As part of the festivities, you’re likely to see murti (effigies) of the elephant god carefully immersed in pools, rivers and lakes, and you might get the chance to try a seasonal modak (sweet dumpling). Elsewhere around the city, the holiday is observed with quiet reflection, prayers, and traditional songs.
Our recommended tour: Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Safaris & the Taj Mahal
Experience India’s best annual events with Newmarket Holidays
Whether you’re a newcomer to the Indian subcontinent or a seasoned explorer, there’s always something new to be found across this fascinating hotspot. Give our friendly holiday planners a call to get the ball rolling on your next wish-list escape, or browse our full range of Asian itineraries on our dedicated India page. To browse our other global holidays, you can also check out our destinations.
