India, with its myriad cultures, boasts a diverse array of festivals that permeate every corner of the nation. Each state, district, and locality take pride in commemorating something special daily. Recognizing the impossibility of encompassing the entirety of these celebrations throughout the entire year (which would undoubtedly be an extensive list!), we’ve undertaken the task of compiling the most distinctive festivals observed in the first half of the year.

This curated selection not only captures the essence of India’s cultural vibrancy but also serves a practical purpose. By focusing on the festivals occurring in the initial six months, we aim to afford readers ample time to craft well-thought-out itineraries. This thoughtful consideration allows enthusiasts to plan their travels strategically, maximizing the opportunity to partake in these unique celebrations. So, while we acknowledge that attempting to cover every festivity across the entire year is a monumental task, I present this selection as a starting point for those eager to immerse themselves in the cultural tapestry of India.

 

Festivals Celebrated in India in April

1. Tulip Festival

 

Encompassing an expansive expanse of 30 hectares within the breathtaking landscape of the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, the Tulip Festival in Srinagar stands as an annual celebration of nature’s vibrant hues. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Srinagar, this renowned festival unfolds in a kaleidoscope of colors, featuring over a million tulips and showcasing the flourishing beauty of more than 73 varieties this year. The Tulip Festival has become an iconic event, drawing visitors from far and wide to witness the enchanting spectacle of these floral wonders in full bloom. It’s not merely a festival; it’s a captivating ode to the mesmerizing allure of tulips, transforming Srinagar into a mesmerizing tapestry of nature’s finest artistry.

Where: Srinagar, Kashmir

When: 26th of March – 20th of April

 

2. Shad Suk Mynsiem

 

The advent of spring heralds the grand arrival of one of the most significant festivals in the Khasi community – Shad Suk Mynsiem. This jubilant agrarian celebration is a testament to the profound connection between the community and the cycles of nature. As the season blooms into a manifestation of new beginnings and rebirth, Shad Suk Mynsiem takes center stage, capturing the essence of this vivacious period. A highlight of the festivities involves the ceremonial planting of new seedlings, symbolizing not only agricultural renewal but also the spiritual and cultural rejuvenation that defines this vibrant festival. Shad Suk Mynsiem is a kaleidoscopic expression of gratitude, hope, and the enduring bond between the Khasi people and the ever-renewing tapestry of life.

Where: Meghalaya

When: 13th April

 

3. Poila Baishak

The Bengali New Year

Where: Assam

When: 14th – 20th of April

 

4. Bohag Bihu

 

Bohag Bihu, a vibrant and culturally significant festival rooted in Assamese tradition, unfolds over the course of seven joyous days. This exuberant celebration marks the arrival of spring and heralds the Assamese New Year with a kaleidoscope of festivities. As communities come together, the air is filled with the infectious spirit of renewal, symbolizing the triumph of life over the chill of winter. Bohag Bihu encapsulates not just the changing seasons but also the resilience and vibrancy of Assamese culture, making it a spectacle that resonates with both locals and those eager to partake in the rich tapestry of Assam’s traditions.

Where: Assam

When: 14th – 20th of April

 

5. Mopin Festival

 

Mopin Festival, a vibrant agricultural celebration, is fervently observed by the Galo tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. This culturally rich festival is a heartfelt expression of the community’s aspirations for prosperity, good health, and wealth. During Mopin, the Galo tribe comes together in joyous unison, engaging in traditional rituals and festivities that symbolize their collective hopes for a bountiful harvest and the well-being of every member in their close-knit community. Through colorful ceremonies and time-honored traditions, Mopin Festival encapsulates the Galo tribe’s deep-rooted connection to their agricultural heritage and their shared pursuit of abundance and happiness.

Where: Arunachal Pradesh

When: 5th of April

 

6. Kadammanitta Padayani

 

The Kadammanitta Padayani festival is intricately linked with local Goddess temples in Kerala, where the enchanting rituals involve the magical healers of the region. These healers, through their mesmerizing dances, were believed to possess the power to alleviate chronic ailments. The festival unfolds as a captivating blend of rhythmic synchronization, featuring intense drumming and harmonious folklore music that transports attendees to a world of spiritual resonance.

Immersing participants in the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology, the festival employs a diverse array of masks, each depicting symbolic figures such as the God of death, Yakshi, Pakshi, and Bhairavi. These masks serve as poignant reminders of the festival’s roots in ancient traditions, weaving together a vibrant spectacle that not only entertains but also delves into the profound realms of cultural and spiritual significance. Witness the Kadammanitta Padayani festival to experience a harmonious convergence of art, mythology, and the enduring spirit of Kerala’s cultural heritage.

Where: Kerala

When: 14th April to 23rd April

 

Malayattoor Perunnal Malayattoor

 

 

Where: St. Thomas Church on Malayattoor Hill in Ernakulam district, Kerala

When: 27th April

 

7. Aoling Festival

 

Honored by the resilient Konyak tribes, the Aoling Festival unfolds in the scenic landscapes of Nagaland, signifying the advent of spring each year. This culturally rich celebration, embraced by the valiant headhunters, is a vibrant tapestry of traditions, art, and community spirit. During the festival, the Konyak tribes come together in a harmonious display of cultural pride, featuring traditional dances, rituals, and elaborate feasts. The Aoling Festival not only marks the seasonal transition but also serves as a poignant reminder of the Konyak heritage, showcasing the resilience and unity of this unique community in Nagaland.

Where: Nagaland

When: 1st to 6th of April

 

8. Chithirai Festival

 

The Chithirai Festival is a grand celebration spanning 15 days, a vibrant spectacle steeped in cultural significance. This auspicious occasion marks the divine journey of Lord Vishnu, astride a resplendent golden horse, as he makes his way to Madurai. The heart of the festival lies in the celestial union of Goddess Meenakshi with Lord Sundareshwar, a sacred matrimonial ceremony that captivates the city with its spiritual fervor. Joining together devotees from far and wide, the Chithirai Festival transforms Madurai into a mesmerizing tapestry of rituals, processions, and joyous festivities, embodying the rich cultural heritage and spiritual devotion of the region.

Where: Madurai, Tamil Nadu

When: 29th April to 12th May

 

 

Festivals Celebrated in India in MAY

9. Fireflies Festival

tiny, blinking lights everywhere! That’s the Fireflies Festival! It’s like nature’s own disco, where thousands of fireflies put on a magical light show during their mating season. You trek through forests or near dams, and suddenly, the trees are alive with these glowing bugs. It’s super chill, super cool, and feels like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. Basically, if you wanna see something truly magical and get away from the city buzz, this is it. Just remember to be respectful to the little light-up buddies!

 

Where: Maharashtra

When: 17th May to 22nd June

Highlights: 

 

10. International Flower Festival

You’ve got orchids showing off their fanciest petals, rhododendrons painting the hillsides in vibrant reds and pinks, and a whole bunch of other flowers you’ve probably never even heard of. Think of it as a super chill, super pretty garden party, with mountain views that’ll knock your socks off. It’s the perfect excuse to wander around, snap a million photos, and just soak in all the flower power. Plus, you get to see how much Sikkim loves its blooms!

 

Where: Gangtok, Sikkim

When: 1st May to 31st May

Highlights: 

 

11. Buddha Poornima

You’ve got pilgrims from all over, some walking barefoot, all coming to remember Buddha’s big moment. There’s this super peaceful vibe, even with the crowds. People are lighting lamps, offering flowers, and just soaking it all in. You can feel the history, y’know? Like, this is where Buddha gave his first talk, and now, thousands of years later, everyone’s still celebrating it. It’s a mix of serious devotion and this really warm, communal feeling.

 

Where: Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh

When: 12th May

Highlights: 

 

12. Ooty Summer Festival

 

You’ve got spice shows, fruit exhibitions, and all sorts of cultural performances, from traditional dances to music that gets your feet tapping. It’s a real mix of nature’s beauty and local culture, all happening while the weather’s just perfect for exploring. Think of it as Ooty throwing a massive, fun-filled party for everyone!

Where: Botanical Gardens, Ooty, Tamil Nadu

Entry Fee: 

Adults: INR 50; Kids: INR 30

When: 17th May to 22nd May

Highlights: 

 

13. Moatsu Festival

 

Moatsu Mong, Nagaland’s vibrant festival, is a wild burst of Ao Naga culture!

Think of it as a huge, community-wide spring cleaning and celebration rolled into one. After sowing’s done, it’s time to chill and pray for a killer harvest. You’ve got these incredible traditional dances, the men in their war gear, the women in their colorful shawls, all moving to the beat of log drums. Then there’s the ‘Sangpangtu’ thing – guys build these massive bonfires and everyone gathers around, singing, feasting on local delicacies, and just having a blast. It’s a real communal vibe, like everyone’s family. Plus, you get to see some seriously cool rituals and hear these ancient folk songs. Basically, Moatsu’s a full-on immersion into the heart of Ao Naga life – loud, proud, and unforgettable!   

Where: Mokokchung district villages (Chuchuyimlang village), Nagaland

When: 1st to 3rd May

Highlights: 

 

14. Igitun Chalne

 

It’s a fire-walking ritual, usually performed during the Shigmo festival, where devotees walk barefoot across a bed of burning embers.

The belief is that if their faith is strong, they’ll remain unharmed. It’s a spectacle of intense devotion, drawing both locals and curious onlookers. The atmosphere is charged with chanting, drumming, and a palpable sense of spiritual fervor.

Where: Sirigao, Goa

When: 1st week of May

Highlights: The grandeur, the enthusiasm of the people, the festive fervour, the procession.

 

15. Thrissur Pooram

 

Two rival temples, Paramekkavu and Thiruvambadi, orchestrate a dazzling display of pageantry, competing in the grandeur of their elephant processions and the brilliance of their fireworks. The air vibrates with the thunderous “Panchavadyam” and “Melam,” traditional orchestral performances. It’s a day-long spectacle, culminating in a breathtaking fireworks display that lights up the night sky.

Where: Thrissur, Kerala

When: 30th April to 6th May

 

 

16.  Mount Abu Summer Festival

 

The Mount Abu Summer Festival is a vibrant burst of Rajasthani culture set against the cool, scenic backdrop of Rajasthan’s only hill station. Think folk dances twirling to lively music, traditional ballads echoing through the hills, and a riot of colorful handicrafts on display. It’s a fun mix of cultural performances, exciting boat races on Nakki Lake, and even some quirky competitions.

Where: Mt. Abu, Rajasthan

When: 10th May to 12th May 

 

 

Festivals Celebrated in India in June

17. Shimla Summer Festival

 

Crisp mountain air filled with the sounds of folk music and the tantalizing aroma of local delicacies. This week-long celebration transforms Shimla into a lively carnival, with performances ranging from traditional Himachali dances to modern music concerts. You’ll find colorful handicrafts, flower shows that showcase the region’s natural beauty, and plenty of opportunities to sample delicious food. It’s a fantastic way to experience the heart of Shimla, where locals and tourists come together to celebrate the arrival of summer with pure, unadulterated fun.

Where: Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

When: 1st June to 5th June

 

 

18. Saga Dawa

 

You’ll see prayer flags fluttering everywhere, carrying wishes and blessings on the wind. The highlight is often the hoisting of the Tarboche flagpole, a massive prayer flag pole, a ritual filled with both solemnity and joyous energy. It’s a time for acts of merit, like releasing fish or giving alms, and a powerful reminder of the deep Buddhist traditions that shape Sikkim’s culture.

Where: Sikkim & also Tibet

When: 11th of June

 

 

19. Sindhu Darshan Festival

 

It’s a colorful blend of cultural performances, religious ceremonies, and patriotic fervor, usually held in June. Pilgrims and tourists alike gather on the banks of the river, bringing water from their respective states to be immersed, signifying the flowing oneness of the nation. You’ll see traditional Ladakhi dances, hear soulful folk music, and witness prayers offered to the river. It’s a unique and moving experience

Where: Leh, Ladakh

When: 23rd June to 27th June

 

 

20. Ambubachi Mela

 

thousands of devotees flooding the Kamakhya Temple, right up on Nilachal Hill. It’s this super intense, super spiritual vibe. They’re celebrating the goddess’s menstruation, which is pretty unique, right?

For a few days, the temple’s closed, and it’s all about this powerful energy. When it reopens, it’s a massive rush, people lining up for blessings. You’ve got these wandering sadhus, holy men, with their long dreads and ash-covered bodies, adding to this crazy atmosphere. It’s a mix of raw devotion, ancient rituals,

Where: Kamakhya Temple, Guwahati, Assam

When: 22nd June to 26th June

 

 

21. Sao Joao Feast Of St John

 

flower crowns (“kopels”), and loads of splashing. Forget your fancy clothes, everyone’s jumping into wells, ponds, or any water they can find, shouting “Viva Sao Joao!” It’s all about celebrating St. John the Baptist, but with a seriously Goan twist. You’ve got boat parades, local booze flowing, and everyone’s singing traditional songs.

Where: Goa

When: 24th of June

 

 

22. Feast Of St Peter & Paul or Festival of Sangodd

 

Sangodd in Goa is a wild, colorful spectacle! Imagine vibrant, makeshift rafts, like floating stages, cruising down the river, packed with people singing, dancing, and acting out scenes from the Bible. It’s a unique blend of religious devotion and pure, unadulterated Goan fun. Think of it as a floating street play, a carnival on water, where local communities come together to celebrate their heritage. These “sangodds” are decked out with decorations, lights, and music, creating a lively, almost chaotic, yet incredibly joyful atmosphere. It’s a real taste of Goan culture, where faith and festivity collide in the most memorable way.

Where: Goa

When: 29th of June

Highlights: The grandeur, the enthusiasm of the people, the festive fervour, the procession.

 

 

23. Ganga Dussehra

 

Devotees flock to the riverbanks, especially in places like Varanasi and Haridwar, to take holy dips, believing it washes away sins and brings purification. The air crackles with chants, the scent of incense, and the sound of bells. You’ll see elaborate aartis with floating diyas and flower offerings shimmering on the river’s surface.

Where: Haridwar, Rishikesh, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Garhmukteshwar, and Patna

When: 5th June

 

 

24. Rath Yatra

 

The true meaning of Rath Yatra lies in the hearts of its devotees. Our culture, rich in diverse interpretations, allows each individual to find their own significance in the festival. For some, it’s simply Lord Jagannath’s joyous annual journey with his siblings. Others see it as his divine descent to bless the land and its people. And for many, Lord Jagannath embodies the ultimate soul, transcending time and space, a symbol of tolerance and universal acceptance, where caste and creed hold no power.

Where: Puri, Odisha

When: 27th June

Highlights: The grandeur, the enthusiasm of the people, the festive fervour, the procession.

 

 

In the tapestry of time between January and April, diverse festivals paint a vivid picture of cultural richness and celebration. Whether you’re drawn to the sacred rituals of Chithirai Festival or the joyous gatherings of Songkran, these months provide a kaleidoscopic journey through a myriad of festivities. As we traverse this season of celebrations, may the shared moments of joy, reflection, and unity during these diverse festivals resonate in our hearts, fostering a deeper appreciation for the cultural mosaic that binds us all.