Top 10 Cultural Festivals You Must Experience in India
India is a place where every day is a new festival. Indians are fortunate enough to have been born in a land that has rich culture and diversity. It does not matter whether you are visiting India in the first month of the year, mid-months or during the last months; every season has different festivals to offer.
To visit India, many countries need visas. However, to avoid any hassles and save time, the Indian government started e-visa services in 2014 for many countries visiting India. Apply for an e-tourist visa online for India and begin your journey to witness the rich culture of India.
Coming back to Indian cultural festivals, we have brought you 10 cultural festivals you must definitely try celebrating in India.
Cultural Festivals You Must Experience as a Tourist in India
Pongal (January)
In Tamil Nadu, Pongal celebrates the harvest. Families cook sweet rice, draw beautiful designs on their doorsteps, and enjoy traditional dances. If you want to experience Tamil hospitality, consider visiting Tamil Nadu in January.
Holi (February/March)
You must have seen videos and images of Indians celebrating the Holi festival with colors in their homes and on India's streets. As a foreigner, you can participate in this festival of color. In Vrindavan and Barsana, India, many foreigners join Indians every year to celebrate the festival.
Onam (August/September)
Kerala's Onam is a ten-day celebration of abundance. Do not miss the chance to witness Vallam Kalli (Boat Race) in Alleppey. Also, take the chance to enjoy a traditional feast served on banana leaves.
Durga Puja (September/October)
Kolkata buzzes with energy during Durga Puja. The city is dotted with beautifully decorated pavilions housing goddess Durga idols. You will surely love the blend of Indian music, dance, and delicious Bengali food around every corner that will give you an insight into Indian culture.
Diwali (October/November)
Diwali lights up India with lamps and fireworks. The festival is celebrated as the home-coming ceremony of Lord Ram after defeating the demon Ravana. On this auspicious day, you will see Indian families lighting up their homes with Deeya (a small clay lamp), weaning new clothes, and sharing sweets.
Pushkar Camel Fair (November)
In Rajasthan, thousands of camels gather for this lively fair. Aside from folk music and shopping for local handicrafts, you can witness camel races.
Hemis Festival (June/July)
High in the Himalayas, Ladakh's Hemis monastery hosts this Buddhist celebration. Monks perform masked dances against a backdrop of stunning mountain scenery.
Ganesh Chaturthi (August/September)
Mumbai comes alive for this festival honoring the elephant-headed God Ganesha. Streets fill with decorated statues and lively processions. Once you witness the grand celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi in India, it won't be hard for you to understand why India is considered a religious country.
Thrissur Pooram (April/May)
This Kerala festival is a feast for the senses. An amazing show is produced with decorated elephants, drum performances, and stunning fireworks.
Hornbill Festival (December)
Nagaland's Hornbill Festival showcases the cultures of its many tribes. Whether it's their traditional dance or local foods, you will love everything.
Apart from these festivals, you can also enjoy other unique festivals in India, such as flower festivals.
Apply for an Indian e-tourist visa online, fill out the application form carefully and get the visa at the convenience of your home. Enjoy the Indian festivals and experience something new.
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