India, a land of captivating contrasts and vibrant hues, beckons travellers with its rich cultural heritage, natural splendour, and warm hospitality. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the sun-kissed beaches of Goa, India is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. And to fully immerse yourself in the essence of this incredible nation, there's no better way than to attend one of its many festivals and events.

International Goa Carnival (Goa)

•  November 20-26.

For one glorious week every November, Goa's rich Portuguese-influenced history and vibrant Hindu culture blend seamlessly together amidst pulsating rhythms, flamboyant costumes and dazzling parades during the International Goa Carnival festivities. 

The festive centrepieces are vibrantly decorated floats reflecting Goa's unique cultural fusion. Intricately carved and painted by skilled artisans over months, these slow-cruising marvels depict folk tales, seasonal harvests and symbols from temples, churches and mosques. Crowds line the streets, captivated by larger-than-life figures of deities, saints and mythic beasts that adorn the passing floats.

In perfectly choreographed accompaniment, dance troupes swirl down roads in synchronisation, bodies swaying rhythmically to live mandos music. Flamboyant dance competitions at city bandstands draw talent from every corner. As evening descends with mesmerising sunsets over the Arabian Sea, extravagant stage shows enliven the carnival spirit with comedy, drama and song.

Odisha International Dance and Music Festival (Konark, Odisha)

• December 14-23

Experience captivating performances of classical Indian dance forms like Odissi, Bharatanatyam, and Kathakali. Engage with traditional music and immerse yourself in India's cultural richness.

The festival's centrepiece is the mesmerising performances of classical Indian dance forms. Odissi, with its graceful movements and intricate hand gestures, takes centre stage, captivating audiences with its storytelling through dance. Bharatanatyam, known for its sculpturesque poses and rhythmic footwork, adds another layer of elegance to the festival. 

Kochi-Muziris Biennale (Kochi, Kerala)

• December 12, - March 20,

Explore the world of contemporary art at the Kochi-Muziris Biennale. Witness thought-provoking installations, interact with global artists, and discover art's power to challenge perspectives. 

It is a celebration of artistic diversity, bringing together renowned artists from around the globe to showcase their innovative and thought-provoking works. The biennale's venues, scattered across the city's heritage sites and contemporary spaces.

The biennale serves as a vital platform for global artistic exchange, providing a space for artists from different cultures and backgrounds to connect, share ideas, and inspire one another. 

Taj Mahotsav (Agra, Uttar Pradesh)

•  February 18-27

Experience traditional dance, music, and local crafts while savouring authentic Indian cuisine. Set against the backdrop of the iconic Taj Mahal, this festival is a celebration of India's rich cultural tapestry.

The Taj Mahotsav awakens the senses with its captivating array of traditionaldance and music performances. Energetic folk dances from different regions of India fill the air with their rhythmic beats, while soulful melodies of classical Indian instruments transport visitors to a realm of enchantment.

 The festival's stages become a canvas for storytelling through dance, with graceful movements and intricate expressions narrating tales of love, devotion, and the essence of the culture.

International Yoga Festival (Rishikesh, Uttarakhand)

• March 1-7

As the birthplace of yoga, Rishikesh provides an apt setting for a week-long immersion in spiritual awakening every March during the International Yoga Festival. Nestled amidst Himalayan foothills beside the serene Ganges River, this holy city transforms into a mecca for mindfulness and inner tranquillity.

From sunrise inverted asanas classes overlooking the mist-veiled mountains to moonlit meditations on the river banks, attendees live and breathe yoga, experiencing profound harmony between body and mind. Under the guidance of over 100 yoga masters representing diverse styles and philosophies, participants unlock deeper mindfulness through sessions tailored for all skill levels.

By amalgamating world-class yoga instructions, spiritual wisdom and sacred sites, the International Yoga Festival enables visitors to transcend earthly bonds and limitations. Against the peaceful backdrop of Rishikesh and the eternal Ganges, attendees journey deeper inward to emerge stronger, balanced and renewed.

Khajuraho Dance Festival (Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh)

•  March 21-26

Evoking stories of ancient heroes and villains, Kathakali performers transfix crowds with intense facial expressions and nimble footwork punctuated by rhythmic ankle bells during intricate routines. Elaborately symbolic makeup brings painted facesto life while billowing red and white skirts swirl through the air. 

Epitomising fluid grace and delicate poise, Odissi dancers convey poetry in motion dressed ornately in silk saris and jingling silver anklets. With soft eyes and subtle hand mudras symbolising nature's elements, dancers slide bare feet upon the stage in gentle rhythmic fluidity. 

Weaving intricate tapestries upon the stage with pointed toes and precise fingers, Bharatanatyam masters reveal South Indian temple dance heritage through each gesture reflecting ancient traditions. Resplendent peacock motifs adorn pleated costumes while dancers strike a captivating balance between technical skill and graceful elegance.

Elephant Festival (Jaipur, Rajasthan)

•  March 13-15

The boisterous Elephant Festival unfolding yearly in the Pink City celebrates the enduring relationship between Rajasthan’s people and the revered pachyderms integral to its heritage. For three days every March, Jaipur hosts a grand spectacle of embellished elephants, cultural performances and contagious festive spirit honouring these gentle giants.

Morning processions of ornamented tuskers lumber through the streets as crowds revel in their magnificence. Intricate paintings, vibrant fabrics and jingling anklets adorn bodies draped in rainbow shades. As cameras flash, the elephants flaunt their creativity, playing polo and cricket or showcasing signature dance moves with mahouts perched proudly upon their necks.

International Mango Festival (Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh)

• March 1-15

The annual mango extravaganza held in Lucknow offers visitors a delectable journey through hundreds of succulent varieties. The "King of Fruits" reigns supreme at this event as an incredible spectrum featuring creamy Desi Dasheri, tropical Totapuri, smooth-as-butter Banganpalli and more beckon eager foodies. 

Competitive judging selects finest specimens based on sweetness, colour and texture to identify prized mangoes fit for royalty. The winner cuts the ceremonial first mango, signalling attendees to dive enthusiastically into sliced samples from esteemed orchards. Culinary displays also showcase the fruit's astounding versatility through chutneys, juices, ice creams and exotic mango preparations.

Holi (Nationwide)

• March 7-8

Celebrate the exuberant festival of colours, Holi, across India. Join the lively festivities, where people drench each other in vibrant hues, dance to traditional dhol rhythms, relish Holi delicacies, and create joyous memories.

Holi is the ultimate expression of jubilation, a day when the streetstransform into a kaleidoscope of colours. People of all ages, backgrounds, and social classes come together, armed with pichkaris (water pistols) and gulal (powdered colour), to drench each other in vibrant hues.

Holi is more than just a riot of colours; it is a celebration of love and unity. The festival transcends social barriers and brings people together, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared joy. The act of throwing colours symbolises the breaking down of social divisions and the embrace of equality.

Holi's origins are rooted in the Hindu legend of Prahlad, a devotee of Lord Vishnu, and his triumph over his evil aunt Holika. The burning of a bonfire on the eve of Holi signifies the destruction of evil and the victory of good.

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