North India Festivals-Marked by Rituals, Competitions and Feasts

Festivals in India form an integral part of culture, especially Northern India enjoys many celebrations throughout the year. Different fairs and festivals of North India attract tourists with their unique charm. The traditions and cultures to enjoy a particular festival vary from the hilly areas to the plains yet these festivals bring people together.

Some of the most popular North India Festivals include:

Taj Mahotsav

Celebrated at the Taj City of Agra in Uttar Pradesh, Taj Mahotsav is among the popular Indian festivals. The festival is an important occasion to showcase Uttar Pradesh's rich heritage of arts, culture, crafts, dance, music and cuisine. Continued for ten days, the Taj festival is the time when tourists can experience the rich culture and tradition of Uttar Pradesh.

Urs Fair

Dedicated to Khwaja Moin-ud-di
Chishti, a Sufi saint, Urs Fair pulls the crowd of His followers. Held at Ajmer in Rajasthan, the fair marks his death anniversary and brings people from different places together at the shrine of the saint. Qawwalis or musical extravaganza, and Mushaira or evening of poetic verses is the highlights of the event that make it listed among the popular North India attractions.

Diwali

Celebrated all over India, Diwali is the festival of light. The festival holds importance among all the popular festivals of India. Marked with a blend of crackers, prayers, sweet distribution and stage shows, Diwali is a stunning celebration. People of different culture and communities celebrate Diwali with great enthusiasm.

Pushkar Fair

Held at Pushkar in Rajasthan, Pushkar Fair is among the most popular North India fairs.
It is the largest cattle fair that starts on Kartik Shukla Ekadashi and lasts for five consecutive days.
The fair is an occasion to watch different cultural activities that take place during this popular event.
Camel race, camel decoration and several exciting competitions add more excitement in the air.
Many devotees also come to take a holy dip in the Pushkar Lake and visit the only Brahma Temple here.

Surajkund Crafts Mela

Showcasing many traditional handicrafts that belong to several states of India, Surajkund Crafts Mela is among the popular festivals in North India. They can taste a variety of delectable dishes from different states at the fair. The fair continues for 15 days and various dance and music performance form an important attraction here.

Hemis Festival

Counted among the famous North Indian festivals, Hemis festival is the festival of Ladakh. Celebrated in Hemis Monastery, it continues for two days. This colourful fair offers tourists an opportunity to see a variety of handicrafts. Local people dress up in traditional clothes and enjoy the dance drama of the Lamas. Hemis monastery serves as the venue for the festival.