Planning a trip to Rajasthan? After checking out the 10 best places to visit in Rajasthan , Rajasthan has still a lot to offer you. Cultural Fairs and Festivals are integral to explore to complete the journey of any destination. Rajasthan has a plethora of these fests. This makes the place joyous and gives the visitors a chance to explore the place’s actual beauty in a better way. So here we are with a curated list of best cultural fairs you should not miss. Let’s begin exploring.
1. Pushkar Camel Fair
Location: Pushkar, Ajmer
Time of the year: Kartik Purnima (October-November)
Highlights:
- Largest camel fair in the world
- Camel trading
- Cultural performances
- Camel races and beauty contests
The dusty desert town of Pushkar transforms into a bustling hub of activity during the auspicious Hindu month of Kartik, specifically around the full moon night of Kartik Purnima. The fair is a sensory delight, with the earthy aroma of camels mingling with the sounds of traditional music and the vibrant colors of Rajasthan’s attire. Visitors can witness the grandeur of the largest camel fair in the world, where traders from far and wide gather to buy and sell these majestic beasts. Cultural performances add to the festive atmosphere, showcasing the rich traditions of Rajasthan. From camel races and beauty contests to mesmerizing folk dances, there’s never a dull moment at the Pushkar Camel Fair.
2. Jaisalmer Desert Festival
Location: Jaisalmer
Time of the year: Magh Purnima (February)
Highlights:
- Colorful desert carnival
- Folk music and dance performances
- Camel races and polo
- Turban tying and mustache competitions
In the heart of the Thar Desert, the Jaisalmer Desert Festival unfolds like a mirage, enchanting visitors with its magical charm. Held during the auspicious month of Magh, particularly around the full moon night of Magh Purnima, this festival celebrates the vibrant culture of Rajasthan against the backdrop of golden sands. From intricately adorned camels to spellbinding folk performances, every aspect of the festival is a testament to Rajasthan’s rich heritage.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the festivities by participating in camel races and polo matches or trying their hand at turban tying and mustache competitions. As the sun sets over the desert horizon, the Jaisalmer Desert Festival casts a spell that lingers long after the last notes of folk music fade away.
3. Marwar Festival
Location: Jodhpur
Time of the year: Ashwin Purnima (September-October)
Highlights:
- Celebrates the bravery and valor of Rajasthan’s warriors
- Folk music and dance performances
- Camel tattooing
- Puppet shows and horse polo
The historic city of Jodhpur comes alive during the Marwar Festival, a celebration of the valor and bravery of Rajasthan’s warriors. Taking place during the Hindu month of Ashwin, particularly around the full moon night of Ashwin Purnima, this festival pays homage to the martial spirit of the region. Against the majestic backdrop of Mehrangarh Fort, visitors can witness captivating performances that showcase the vibrant culture of Marwar. From traditional folk music to exhilarating camel tattooing, every aspect of the festival reflects the indomitable spirit of Rajasthan. Visitors can also indulge in puppet shows, horse polo matches, and explore the rich handicrafts of the region, making the Marwar Festival an unforgettable experience.
4. Baneshwar Fair
Location: Dungarpur
Time of the year: Magh Shukla Ekadashi to Magh Shukla Purnima (January-February)
Highlights:
- Religious fair at Baneshwar Temple
- Folk music and dance
- Animal trading
- Handicrafts and local cuisine
Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Dungarpur, the Baneshwar Fair is a spiritual and cultural extravaganza that captivates visitors with its serene ambiance. Held during the Hindu month of Magh, from the auspicious day of Magh Shukla Ekadashi to the full moon night of Magh Shukla Purnima, this fair draws devotees and travelers alike to the sacred Baneshwar Temple. Beyond its religious significance, the fair is a melting pot of cultural exchange, where folk music and dance performances resonate against the backdrop of lush greenery. Visitors can explore the intricacies of traditional handicrafts, witness the age-old tradition of animal trading, and savor the flavors of local cuisine, making the Baneshwar Fair a truly enriching experience.
5. Jaipur Elephant Festival
Location: Jaipur
Time of the year: Phalgun Purnima (February-March)
Highlights:
- Elephants adorned in traditional attire
- Elephant polo and races
- Cultural performances
- Tug-of-war between elephants and men
In the pink city of Jaipur, the majestic elephants take center stage during the colorful extravaganza known as the Elephant Festival. Held during the Hindu month of Phalgun, particularly around the full moon night of Phalgun Purnima, this festival is a celebration of the bond between humans and these gentle giants. Adorned in vibrant attire, elephants parade through the streets, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. Visitors can witness thrilling elephant polo matches, exhilarating races, and cultural performances that transport them back in time to the era of royalty. From traditional music to the rhythmic beats of folk dances, the Jaipur Elephant Festival offers a glimpse into the grandeur and opulence of Rajasthan’s regal past.
6. Mt Abu Summer Festival
Location: Mount Abu
Time of the year: Jyeshta (May-June)
Highlights:
- Celebrates the cool climate of Mount Abu during summers
- Boat races at Nakki Lake
- Cultural performances
- Fireworks display
Amidst the serene environs of Mount Abu, the Summer Festival offers a refreshing respite from the scorching heat of Rajasthan’s summers. Taking place during the Hindu month of Jyeshta, this festival celebrates the cool climate and natural beauty of Mount Abu with fervor and enthusiasm. Visitors can partake in a variety of activities, from thrilling boat races at Nakki Lake to cultural performances that showcase the vibrant heritage of the region. As the sun sets over the Aravalli hills, the festival comes alive with mesmerizing fireworks displays and vibrant processions, creating an atmosphere of joy and merriment that leaves a lasting impression on all who attend.
7. Teej Festival
Location: Across Rajasthan
Time of the year: Shravan (July-August)
Highlights:
- Celebrates the monsoon season and marital bliss
- Women dress in colorful traditional attire
- Swing decoration competitions
- Folk music and dance performances
Across the state of Rajasthan, the monsoon season is ushered in with great pomp and splendor during the Teej Festival. Celebrated during the Hindu month of Shravan, this festival holds special significance for married women, who pray for the well-being and longevity of their spouses. Decked in colorful traditional attire, women gather to participate in swing decoration competitions and cultural performances that reflect the essence of Rajasthani culture. From traditional rituals to lively folk dances, the Teej Festival is a celebration of love, happiness, and togetherness.
Also Read – Top 10 Foods to try in Rajasthan