Top 24 Festivals in India You Wouldn't Want to Miss

As the land of spirituality and faith, India is a country of festivals, rich culture, and many religions. It is the only place where people from different backgrounds live happily and peacefully together. There are numerous religious and national festivals celebrated in India wholeheartedly throughout the year. The importance of festivals in India is not limited to celebrations only as it reflects the diversity, integrity, and unity. Attending Indian festivals provide an electrifying and enriching experience, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and encourage to create social connections. Are you also intending to experience traditions and festivities firsthand? Read this blog till the end and include India in your travel plan list this year.

Most Popular Festivals in India One Must Attend

India is a land where every nook and corner brings something new to see. The vivid and vivacious festivals in India portray just how great the culture of the country is. Indian festivals are broadly divided into national, religious, community, and seasonal categories. Hence, every other day is a festival in the country. Now, tell me, have you ever seen any country that blends religious traditions with secular celebrations? So, never miss any chance when it comes to discover the prosperity of Indian cultural heritage. Here, we have enlisted some of the top festivals of India that are celebrated with sheer enthusiasm and devotion.

1. Diwali
2. Holi
3. Dussehra
4. Eid al-Fitr
5. Durga Puja
6. Ganesh Chaturthi
7. Navratri
8. Raksha Bandhan
9. Krishna Janmashtami
10. Onam
11. Gurpurab
12. Christmas
13. Bihu
14. Easter
15. Hemis
16. Baisakhi
17. Pongal
18. Republic Day
19. Maha Shivaratri
20. Ugadi
21. Basant Panchami
22. Losar
23. Mahavir Jayanti
24. Buddha Jayanti

1. Diwali

Diwali, often called the festival of lights, is a magical spectacle to experience in India. Celebrated all around the country, this is India's biggest festival and carries a huge significance for Hindus living in the country and all around the world. This is the time of the year when companies around the country hand out gifts to their employees and there are plenty of offers in the market.

Families visit their relatives and exchange greetings and gifts as part of the festivities. Delhi, the Indian capital and one of the finest tourist attractions in India is a place worth exploring during Diwali. As the festivities begin, houses around the city and all over the country are decorated with clay lamps, candles and Ashoka leaves.

People indulge in family pooja, burst crackers during the night, and exchange sweets with friends, family, and neighbors.

Things to do -

• Light diyas
• Decorate the house
• Exchange gifts and sweets with friends, family, and neighbors
• Burst crackers

Where It is Celebrated - Diwali is celebrated all over India, majorly in North India

Date of the Festival - October 21, 2025

Significance of the Festival - Diwali marks the return of Lord Ram along with wife Sita and brother Lakshmana after an exile of 14 years.

2. Holi

Another festival that lies on the list of the top 10 festivals in India that has huge significance in the lives of every Hindu is Holi. Celebrated around the country, usually in the month of March, Holi is one of the most famous festivals of India and is celebrated during the course of two days. As any traveler would agree, India is one of the finest places to visit in Asia during the month of March particularly due to the festival of Holi.

So, how is it exactly celebrated? Well, during the eve of Holi, people around the country make huge Holika bonfires. They sing and dance around it, which goes a long way during the night.

As for the day of Holi, this is when the real fun begins. People living in neighborhoods gather in open areas and apply dry and wet colors on each other which is a spectacle full of fun and excitement. In fact, this is fun that attracts thousands of travelers every year to India. Kids play with water guns and throw water-filled balloons on each other. Hence, as far as famous festivals of India are concerned, Holi is right up there with the very best.

Things to do-Play with water guns, apply dry and wet colors on each other, make sweets at home, Holika bonfire

Where it is Celebrated - Holi is celebrated all around India, majorly in North India.

Date of the Festival - 14th March 2025

Significance of the Festival - This spring festival in India is celebrated in order to mark the victory of good over evil while it also marks the arrival of Spring.

3. Dussehra

As far as festivals go, Dussehra in India is one spectacle that is set to bring joy to the hearts of every person experiencing it. One of the upcoming festivals in India 2025, Dussehra is also referred to as Vijayadashami and is celebrated in multiple forms around the country. There are enactments of the scenes from Ramayana that are performed as acts for a period of ten days during this time (also called Ramlila) which is very popular amongst travelers and young people.

It is then culminated with 'Ravan Dahan' where huge effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhakarna are burnt, a spectacle you don't want to miss. As for the other parts of the country, here's how Dussehra, a big festival in India, is celebrated -

Mysore - In Mysore, Dussehra is celebrated by taking out a colorful procession. During this time, the Mysore Palace is a sight to watch while the atmosphere of the whole place is joyous, to say the least.

Kullu - Dussehra in Kullu is slightly unique when compared to other parts of India. Here, the festival is celebrated for ten straight days welcoming the mountain deities in the valley.

Delhi - Dussehra in the Indian capital, Delhi, is celebrated in much the same way as in other parts of the country. One of the finest places to visit in March in the world, the festival here is celebrated with an amazing spectacle of Ravan Dahan.

Things to do - Attend Ravan Dahan

Where it is Celebrated - Dussehra is celebrated all over India. Every place in the country has a unique way of celebrating the festival.

Date of the Festival - October 01, 2025 (Tentative date)

Significance of the Festival - Dussehra marks the death of demon king Ravana at the hands of Lord Rama.

Suggested Read: Topmost Destinations to Celebrate New Year in India

4. Eid al-Fitr

Another fine festival that carries immense significance in the life of every Muslim in India and all over the world, Eid al-Fitr is one of India's biggest festivals and is celebrated for three days straight. It is an occasion when the Muslim community in the country attends a special community prayer in the morning, makes merry, and greets friends, family, and neighbors.

People dress up in nice modest clothes, to meet their families and friends and exchange sweets.

Interestingly, this is a festival that marks the conclusion of the holy month of fasting called Ramadan. For small children, it is a day when they are given Idi (money or gift) by elders. But hang on, do you know what most attracts travelers to indulge in the festivities of Eid ul-Fitr? Well, it is the delicious delicacies served during festivities and the magical culture of the Muslim community that compels every person to indulge in the celebrations of Eid al-Fitr, regardless of what religious faith he or she follows. So, if you want to experience what it's really like to indulge in the festivities of Eid al-Fitr, well, why not come to India and experience it yourself?

Things to do - Attend special community prayer in the morning, exchange sweets, make merry with friends and relatives

Where it is Celebrated - Eid al-Fitr is celebrated in the whole country by the Muslim Community.

Date of the Festival - 30th or 31st March 2025

Significance of the Festival - The festival of Eid al-Fitr marks the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan.

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5. Durga Puja

Although there are many festivals in India that are associated with the Hindu community, Durga Puja has to be amongst the top ones. It is one of those festivals celebrated in India where Bengalis indulge in the celebrations throughout the country as the festival is celebrated with grandeur. What is interesting to see is the ten days of fast, feast, and feast that is accompanied by the worship of Goddess Durga idols.

Not only this, these ten days are accompanied by cultural songs, dances, and dramas which are highly entertaining. There are large and beautiful idols of Goddess Durga that are made and placed in specially made canopies while the people dress up in traditional and go around the canopies enjoying, praying, and feasting.

Things to do - Visit Durga Pandals, dance, and make merry in the ten days long celebrations

Where it is Celebrated - Durga Puja, although celebrated all around the country, is incredibly popular in Kolkata and other metro cities and that's where travelers can experience the best of celebrations

Date of the Festival - September 28 to October 2, 2025

Significance of the Festival - Durga Puja is a festival that commemorates the invocation by Lord Ram of Goddess Durga before going on a war with the demon king Ravana.

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6. Ganesh Chaturthi

Another Hindu festival that is celebrated for ten days straight and has immense value in the lives of people living in India is Ganesh Chaturthi, perhaps one of the different festivals in India. During the ten days of festivities of this colorful affair in India, huge Ganesh idols are established in homes and outdoors in public pandals.

There are also pujas performed during mornings and evenings until the last day of festivities.

On the last day of festivities, the whole country prepares for visarjan (immersion of an idol in a water body). The day of visarjan is accompanied by singing, dancing, and so much more. In fact, Ganesh Chaturthi is a spectacle that is widely popular in the states of Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh in India. So, why not plan your visit to these states and indulge in the festivities of Ganesh Chaturthi during the time?

Things to do - Enjoy singing and dancing, be a part of the cultural activities, experience the visarjan ceremony on the last day

Where it is Celebrated - Although celebrated all around the country, the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi is highly popular in the states of Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh.

Date of the Festival - August 27, 2025

Significance of the Festival - Ganesh Chaturthi marks the birthday of Lord Ganesha.

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7. Navratri

Now here's a thing, Navratri is one of the major festivals in India that carries huge significance in the life of every Hindu and is celebrated with full energy and in multiple ways. Indulging in the festivities of Navratri is one of the top things to do in India for every traveler. In fact, it is amongst those famous festivals of India when people perform certain practices like fasting for a period of nine days.

In areas like Gujarat, Navratri is celebrated through Garba nights and Dandiya Raas which are highly popular in the region. In fact, this is the time when the people dress up in beautiful traditional clothes and perform nine days fast as part of the festivities. On the eighth and ninth days of fasting, however, Kanya Pujan is performed in just about every Hindu household.

Things to do - 9-days fasting, dress up in traditional clothes, perform Kanya Pujan on the eighth and ninth day of fasting, attend Dandiya nights

Where it is Celebrated - Navratri is celebrated all around the country, mostly in Gujarat, Maharashtra, and other metros including the Indian Capital.

Date of the Festival - 30 March to 7 April 2025

Significance of the Festival - Navratri represents the celebration of Goddess Amba in nine different forms.

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8. Raksha Bandhan

Another fine festival that is celebrated during the month of August in the Hindu community in India is Raksha Bandhan. One of the major August festivals in India 2025, Raksha Bandhan signifies the bond between brother and sister. It is a festival in which the sister performs a prayer, applies tilak, and ties a Rakhi (a sacred thread) on the wrist of her brother, wishing him well for his well-being. Interestingly, Raksha Bandhan has many similarities with another popular festival Bhai Dooj in India which is celebrated just after Diwali.

Things to do - The day is meant to be celebrated with siblings

Where it is Celebrated - Raksha Bandhan is a festival that is generally celebrated in parts of North, Central, and West India.

Date of the Festival - August 9, 2025

Significance of the Festival - Raksha Bandhan symbolizes the strong bond between a brother and sister.

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9. Krishna Janmashtami

Now here's a thing, Krishna Janmashtami may not be India's biggest festival, but it is certainly celebrated with much popularity and has massive religious importance in the country. It is amongst those upcoming festivals in India 2025 when places like Mathura and Vrindavan are a joy to visit. In fact, the significance of the festival can be understood from the fact that people fast throughout the day as part of the festivities and break their fast with a special meal after dusk.

It is because of this that Krishna Janmashtami features amongst some of the most important Indian festivals today. But what exactly about the day of Krishna Janmashtami? Well, this is a day when people visit temples, pray, dance, and sing bhajans at midnight as part of the celebrations.

Interestingly, one of the funniest and joyous parts of Krishna Janmashtami is to see small children dress up like Lord Krishna on this auspicious day. There are "Jhankis" organized in temples during the day which present a picturization of Lord Krishna's life story. So, what's the delay? Plan your visit to India around the time of Krishna Janmashtami and witness an amazing spectacle yourself.

Things to do - Visit Krishna temples and attend specials pujas

Where it is Celebrated - Krishna Janmashtami is another major a festival celebrated during August month in the Hindu community all over the world, but the most popular places include Mathura and Vrindavan.

Date of the Festival - August 16, 2025

Significance of the Festival - Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated on account of the birthday of Lord Krishna.

Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Vrindavan: Where Legends of Lord Krishna Come Alive with His Melodious Flute

10. Onam

Another important festival in India that is widely popular in the Southern region of the country, Onam is celebrated with great excitement. During the festival, people wear traditional clothes, decorate their houses with floral designs, and prepare fine delicacies at home which consist of about 13 dishes in total. In fact, events such as the snake boat race (Vallam Kali), clap dance (Kaikottikali), and dressing artists like tigers and hunters (Pulikali procession) take place. Travelers from around the world come to witness these events.

So, what's the delay? If you're wondering about the best things to do in Kerala or wish to witness these events live, then plan your trip to India during the festival of Onam. However, in order to avoid any rushes, travelers are advised to plan their trips well in advance since this is usually the time when the flights are full.

Things to do - Attend ceremonies like snake boat race (Vallamkali), clap dance (Kaikottikali), and dressing artists like tigers and hunters (Pulikali procession)

Where it is Celebrated - Onam is popular in the state of Kerala and is celebrated in the region by people of all communities

Date of the Festival - 4th and 5th September 2025

Significance of the Festival - Onam is a festival that is celebrated to mark the homecoming of King Mahabali

Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Kerala: An Enchanting Journey to the God’s Own Country

11. Gurpurab

Another of those upcoming festivals in India 2025 celebrated by the Sikh community in the country, Gurpurab (also spelled as Gurpurb or Gurpurub) and is commonly known as Guru Nanak Jayanti), carries huge significance and is a festival you don't want to miss. Highly popular in areas where the Sikh community is in majority, this is a festival that is celebrated by great excitement and religious faith. As part of festivities, there are special assemblies that are organized in the gurudwaras on the lives and teachings of the gurus which are followed by langars (community meals) which is something you don't want to miss.

Not only this, but this festival in India has some similarities with Diwali as people light candles and lamps in their homes, exchange greetings, and burst crackers to celebrate the festival. Prasad is distributed amongst the community and hymn chanting can be heard throughout the region from various Gurudwaras. So, why not indulge in the festivities of Gurpurab and experience the magical culture of the Sikh community?

Things to do - Visit Gurudwaras, savor nice langar, do charity, etc.

Where it is Celebrated - Gurpurab is a festival that isn't specific to India. It is celebrated by the Sikh community all over the world. However, Punjab has to be the topmost place to experience the festivities of Gurpurab the best.

Date of the Festival - 5 November 2025

Significance of the Festival - Gurpurab is celebrated around the world to mark the anniversary of the ten Sikh gurus.

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12. Christmas

The festive season in India is incomplete without celebrating Christmas, the birth of Jesus. Now here's a thing, Christmas is a festival that isn't unique to India, rather it is celebrated all around the world and is loved by both kids and adults. This is a festival that marks the birth of Jesus Christ and has a huge significance as far as the Christian community is concerned. One of the major highlights of this festival is the fact that children await special gifts from Santa Claus while churches are lit up and decorated beautifully.

People from the Christian community decorate Christmas trees in their homes, exchange gifts, and make merry with their loved ones. This is a festival that has a beautiful vibe about it and is celebrated during winters which is generally regarded as a perfect time to visit India. In fact, the country features amongst the finest places to visit in December in the world. So, what's the delay? Plan your Christmas trip to India and come spend a magical Christmas with your loved ones in the country.

Things to do - Visit the church, attend Christmas carnivals, attend the prayers, decorate Christmas trees

Where it is Celebrated - Christmas is a festival that is celebrated all around the country. However, the best places to celebrate Christmas in India are Goa, Kerala, and Pondicherry

Date of the Festival - 25th December 2025

Significance of the Festival - Christmas is a festival that is celebrated on account of the birthday of Lord Jesus.

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13. Bihu

A harvest festival of India that is mainly celebrated in the North East India, Bihu is the harvest festival of Assam and a popular spectacle. It is one of those Indian festivals in which both young men and women actively take part. Bihu, also known as Bhogali Bihu or Maghor Bihu, lasts for a whole month and during these month-long celebrations, men and women dress up in traditional clothes and perform the special Bihu dance in the village fields and courtyards.

This is a festival that brings a lot of joy to the villages in Assam and a community feast is held with a lot of fanfare. Interestingly, this is a festival that has massive importance for Assamese and begins in April.

Things to do - Wear traditional clothes, attend community meals, indulge in local rituals that are performed

Where it is Celebrated - Bihu is a festival that is celebrated by the Assamese diaspora around the world. The festival is widely popular in Assam.

Date of the Festival - 14th to 16th April 2025 and 18th October 2025

Significance of the Festival - Bihu is the traditional new year celebration of Assamese around the world.

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14. Easter

Another of those festivals in India that are celebrated with much fervor around the world, Easter is one of the most joyous festivals in the world and it's no differently celebrated in India. In some parts of the country and around the world, Easter is celebrated with great solemnization by the Christian community.

Goa, one of the finest honeymoon places in Asia, is where easter celebrations are at their very best.

This festival in India is celebrated during the spring season and involves colorful decorations, singing, dance and so much more. In fact, one of the main highlights of the festival is plum cakes that are made in every Christian household and brights lanterns that can be found all around the streets. So, what's the delay? Plan your trip to India around the time of Easter and indulge in the festivities.

Things to do - Attend Prayers, color and decorate easter eggs, bake plum cakes at home

Where it is Celebrated - Although Easter is a festival that is celebrated all around the country, the most popular places to indulge in the celebrations are Goa, Pondicherry, and Kerala.

Date of the Festival - April 20th, 2025

Significance of the Festival - Easter is celebrated to mark the resurrection of Lord Jesus.

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15. Hemis

Now here's a thing, you may not be familiar with Hemis, but it is one festival that is celebrated with much joy in Ladakh. A two-day religious festival, Hemis is, in fact, regarded as one of the most famous festivals of India celebrated with zeal and joy. As part of the festivities, priests perform Cham Dance to the tunes of traditional music of cymbals, drums, trumpets played by monks.

Interestingly, one of the main highlights of Hemis is the attire of priests who dress up in unique clothes and perform the festivities. Ideally, Hemis is celebrated on the 10th day of the Tibetan Lunar Month.

Things to do - Attend the ceremonies and dances by the priests

Where it is Celebrated - Hemis is a festival that is celebrated in Ladakh, Jammu, and Kashmir.

Date of the Festival - 16 June 2025 to 29 June 2025

Significance of the Festival - Hemis has great significance in Ladakh, and the celebrations mark the birth anniversary of Padmasambhava, a spiritual leader and founder of Tibet Tantric Buddhism.

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16. Baisakhi

India is a land of rich traditions and Baisakhi as a festival is a great example of it. Celebrated by the Sikh community of Punjab and those around the world, this is one of the major harvest festivals of India that welcomes the season of rabi crops. During this festival, a lot of joy and excitement is evident amongst the Sikh community, especially farmers who harvest rabi crops.

As part of the festivities, there are community gatherings organized where people perform local folk dances such as Giddha, and Bhangra.

Interestingly, Baisakhi is not only associated with the harvest season of rabi crops but it also has a great religious significance. This is a festival that marks the day when Guru Govind Singh, the tenth Guru of Sikhs, laid out the foundation stone for the Panth Khalsa, the order back in 1699. Although widely popular in Punjab, the festival is celebrated by Sikh communities all around the world.

Things to do - Savor a mouthwatering meal at various gatherings, visit Gurudwaras, indulge in local celebrations

Where it is Celebrated - Baisakhi is a festival that is celebrated by Sikh communities all across India. However, the most popular place to indulge in the festivities of Baisakhi in Punjab.

Date of the Festival - 14 April 2025

Significance of the Festival - Baisakhi is a festival that is celebrated to welcome the harvest season for rabi crops. The festival also has a religious significance and marks the day when Guru Govind Singh, the tenth Guru of Sikhs, laid out the foundation stone for the Panth Khalsa, the order back in 1699.

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17. Pongal

Another harvest festival of India that is mainly celebrated in the Southern part of India, Pongal is a four-day-long festival in which people prepare a dish by the name Pongal and wear traditional attire. Pongal is a famous festival that includes a wide range of activities like dancing, bonfires, cattle races, savories, and so much more.

In fact, people decorate their houses with traditional floral designs that are eye-catching. One can find designs made with rice, colored powders, and even flower petals. So, visit Southern India during the month of January and indulge in the festivities of Pongal.

Things to do - Cattle races, bonfires, making meals and sweets

Where it is Celebrated - Pongal is a festival that is celebrated by the Tamil community in India. The festival is mainly celebrated in Tamil Nadu.

Date of the Festival - January 14th to 17th, 2025

Significance of the Festival - Pongal is celebrated as a Thanksgiving festival to celebrate the first harvest of the year.

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18. Republic Day

A National festival of India that is celebrated in the month of January on 26th every year, Republic Day carries immense significance as far as the whole country is concerned. One of the biggest festivals in India, this is a day when every citizen of the country is filled with patriotism. Republic Day is celebrated to mark when the Constitution of India came into existence and the country's journey towards becoming one of the great nations began.

This is a historic day in every Indian's life as people remember the year 1950 (exactly three years after India got independence) when the constitution came into existence. Interestingly, one of the main highlights of Republic Day is the Grand Parade that begins from Rashtrapati Bhavan and continues to Rajpath, India Gate, and finally to the Red Fort.

Over the years, Republic Day has been celebrated with great excitement amongst Indian citizens and continues to be a day filled with patriotism and joy.

Things to do - Attend the Republic Day Parade, Indulge in celebrations locally

Where it is Celebrated - Republic Day is the national festival of India and is celebrated all across the country by every person who is an Indian.

Date of the Festival - 26th January (Every Year)

Significance of the Festival - Republic Day is celebrated to mark the day when the Constitution of India came into existence.

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19. Maha Shivaratri

Ask any Hindu what Maha Shivaratri is, and I bet they'll know the answer to this. Celebrated as a festival of pure devotion to Lord Shiva, Maha Shivaratri holds immense importance for the devotees of Lord Shiva and has great significance as far as Hindu Mythology is concerned. It is one of those different festivals of India in which both unmarried and married women attain marital bliss.

People visit temples on this day and indulge in grand festivities. Interestingly, it is one of the major festivals celebrated in India on the 14th day of the dark fortnight in the month of Phalgun, and it is believed that whoever worships Lord Shiva on this day is set to attain salvation and redemption from their sins. For travelers, indulging in the festivities of Maha Shivaratri can be a truly life-changing experience.

Things to do - Visit temples and indulge in the grand festivities with friends and family

Where it is Celebrated - Maha Shivaratri is a festival that is majorly celebrated in Northern India and Nepal

Date of the Festival - February 26, 2025

Significance of the Festival - Maha Shivaratri is immense for the devotees of Lord Shiva it is believed that whoever worships Lord Shiva on this day is set to attain salvation and redemption from their sins.

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20. Ugadi

A festival that is largely specific to the people of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Goa, Ugadi is a regional new year celebration and another harvest festival of India that is celebrated by giving gifts or making rangolis on the floor.

In fact, during Ugadi people also decorate their doors and the decoration is called Torana. This is a festival that is celebrated by sharing gifts and special food with loved ones. For the people living in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Ugadi carries huge importance.

Things to do - Indulge in the celebrations with friends and family, exchange gifts and food, make rangolis on the floor, decorate doors

Where it is Celebrated - Ugadi is a festival that is largely specific to the people of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana States.

Date of the Festival - March 30, 2025

Significance of the Festival - Ugadi is another harvest festival of India and auspicious to start new work.

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21. Basant Panchami

Another famous festival of India that is celebrated in the month of January or February, Basant Panchami (or Vasanta Panchami and Saraswati Puja) is a festival that is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati and is considered an important day for scholars and students. Why? Well, Goddess Saraswati is the Goddess of Knowledge.

Hence, the importance of Basant Panchami for students and scholars isn't difficult to understand. Besides, the festival isn't celebrated all around India and is specific to certain areas like Bihar, Haryana, and Punjab. In fact, Punjab is the place where you want to be on the day of Basant Panchami when there are grand langars organized everywhere.

Interestingly, Rajasthan is also one of the regions where Basant Panchami is widely celebrated.

On this day, people in Rajasthan offer jasmine garlands to Goddess Saraswati. Likewise, people in states like West Bengal, Assam, and Odisha too indulge in the festivities of Basant Panchami. Hence, this is a festival that is celebrated in some significant areas of India.

Things to do - Attend Saraswati Puja, indulge in local celebrations

Where it is Celebrated - Basant Panchami is a festival that is mainly celebrated in the states of Bihar, West Bengal, Punjab, Haryana, Assam, Odisha, Rajasthan

Date of the Festival - February 2, 2025

Significance of the Festival - Basant Panchami marks the beginning of the spring season.

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22. Losar

Losar, popularly known as the Tibetan New Year is another festival in India that is widely popular in Arunachal Pradesh region. It is one of the greatest Indian festivals and is celebrated with great importance in the neighboring regions like Tibet. In India, Losar is celebrated by the people who are the followers of Buddhism as well as those who are Tibetans.

The festival, in fact, is celebrated in a way full of fun and involves showing faith in God for the harvest. Interestingly, this is a festival that lasts for a duration of three days when different activities are organized for the joy of people. So, plan your visit to regions like Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Leh and Ladakh during the time of Losar and indulge in the festivities that last for three days.

Things to do - Indulge in local celebrations that last for three days

Where it is Celebrated - Losar is mainly celebrated in regions like Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Leh and Ladakh in India.

Date of the Festival - 28 February 2025 to 2 March 2025

Significance of the Festival - Losar is celebrated as a day when the Tibetan New Year begins according to the Tibetan Calendar.

Suggested Read: Things to do in Leh Ladakh: Unleash the Adventurer Within

23. Mahavir Jayanti

Mahavir Jayanti, also known as Mahavir Janma Kalyanak, is a festival of great importance in the Jain religion and marks the birth of Lord Mahavir. On this day, there are many grand processions of Lord Mahavira's idol that are carried out on the streets. One can also find statues of Lord Mahavira in the temples where they are bathed with milk and flowers.

Interestingly, the festivities of Mahavir Jayanti too include fasting which is observed on the day alongside prayers. As far as the Hindu Calendar is concerned, Mahavir Jayanti, one of the biggest festivals in India, is celebrated on the 13th day of Chaitra month of Hindu Calendar.

Things to do - Visit Jain temples, Attend Rath Yatras that are carried out on the streets.

Where it is Celebrated - Mahavir Jayanti is a festival that is celebrated in the states of Gujarat and Rajasthan.

Date of the Festival - April 10, 2025

Significance of the Festival - Mahavir Jayanti is the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira.

24. Buddha Jayanti

One of the holiest festivals that lies on the list of summer season festivals in India 2025, Buddha Jayanti is also referred to by the name Buddha Purnima and is an important festival as far as Buddhism is concerned. It is a day that celebrates the birthday of Gautama Buddha, someone who introduced Buddhism to the whole world.

As part of the festivities on this day, people indulge themselves in Buddhist teachings and wear white clothes. In India, Buddha Jayanti is widely celebrated in areas like Darjeeling, Sikkim, Bodh Gaya, and so on.

Things to do - Visit Buddhist monasteries and indulge yourself in the teachings of Buddhism, wear white clothes

Where it is Celebrated - Buddha Jayanti is mainly celebrated in Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Darjeeling, Bodh Gaya, Maharashtra, and Kurseong in India.

Date of the Festival - 12, May 2025

Significance of the Festival - Buddha Jayanti is celebrated as the day when Gautam Buddha was born.

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North Indian Festivals in India

North India is a land of diverse festivities and rich cultural heritage. The culture of North India is vast, with its own regional languages, cuisines, customs, traditions, and festivities. Some of the most prominent festivals celebrated in North Indian states are as follows:

• Diwali: This festival is also known as the festival of lights and is celebrated across India, especially in the north. It marks the victory of good over evil, victory of light over darkness, and the return of the Lord Ram after his 14 years of exile.
• Holi: Also known as the "festival of colors", Holi is a joyous celebration that is celebrated with colored powder and water, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil.
• Guru Nanak Jayanti: This major festival in North India marks the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Sikhism founder and its first Guru. Guru Nanak Jayanti is also known as Gurpurab.
• Ganesh Chaturthi: A ten-day Hindu festival, Ganesh Chaturthi celebrates the birth of the Lord Ganesha, the son of Goddess Durga and God Shiva. He is a god of wisdom, prosperity, intellect, and the removal of obstacles.

South Indian Festivals in India

South India is also rich in vibrant festivals, each with unique traditions and celebrations. From Andhra Pradesh to Tamil Nadu, surrounding Kerala, Karnataka, and Telangana, all South Indian states reflect rich and unique culture. Let's explore the major festivals in South India celebrated with enthusiasm and joy.

• Onam: Celebrated in Kerala, Onam is an Indian festival which marks the homecoming of the legendary Emperor Mahabali. This harvest festival celebrates unity, prosperity, and cultural pride.
• Pongal: It is a four-day harvest festival in India that is celebrated primarily in Tamil Nadu. Pongal is celebrated to express gratitude to the Sun God, nature, earth, and farm animals.
• Thrissur Pooram: This festival is celebrated annually in Thrissur, Kerala and honors the Lord Vadakkunnathan, the presiding deity of the Vadakkunnathan Temple. The celebrations include elephant procession, traditional music, and massive fireworks.
• Mysore Dasara: It is a grand ten-day festival celebrated in Mysore to honor the victory of Goddess Chamundeshwari (Durga) over the demon Mahishasura. Basically, Mysore Dasara festival symbolizes the victory of truth over evil.

Types of Festivals in India

India celebrates diverse festivals, including national, regional, and seasonal festivals.

National Festivals:

National festivals of India are celebrated to promote a sense of unity and pride. Also, it honors the sacrifices of revolutionaries and politicians who sacrificed their lives for the welfare of the country. Some of the most prominent national festivals in India are:

• Republic Day: Celebrated on 26th January across the country, Republic Day celebrates the adoption of the Indian Constitution and the establishment of India as a Republic nation on 26 January 1950.
• Independence Day: It is celebrated on 15th of August every year and commemorates the independence of India from British colonial rule in 1947.
• Gandhi Jayanti: It is celebrated annually on 2nd of October honoring the birth anniversary of the "Father of the Nation" Mahatma Gandhi. He played a significant role in India's independence movement with his non-violence beliefs.

Religious Festivals:

India boasts a rich variety of religious festivals celebrated across the country. Read on below to learn about the best cultural and religious festivals in India:

• Holi: One of the major Hindu fests in India, Holi is the festival of colors, love, spring, and equality. This colorful festival of Holi marks the country's essence and vibrancy.
• Diwali: Also known as Deepavali or Deepawali, is the major Hindu festival in India that falls on the day of Amavasya or no moon day, typically in the October or November. Diwali is a festival of light over darkness and good over evil.
• Eid al-Fitr: Also called as Eid ul-Fitr, it is a holy celebration of Muslim devotees that marks the end of Ramadan month. This year 2025, Eid is expected to take place on 30th March 2025 or 31st March 2025, depending on the sighting of the moon.
• Christmas: Perhaps one of the biggest and widely celebrated cultural festivals in India, Christmas is also celebrated with great energy and excitement in India. Some of the best places to experience the electrifying Christmas vibes in India are Goa, Pondicherry, Kerala, and Shillong.

Seasonal Festivals:

India also celebrates many seasonal festivals at the time of the main harvest of a particular region. Let's take a look at some of major harvest festivals in India:

• Makar Sankranti: This seasonal festival is celebrated annually on 14 January or sometimes on 15 January and marks the sun's transition into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara).
• Pongal: It is a four-day harvest festival celebrated annually mainly in Tamil Nadu that marks the end of the cold winter and beginning of the Tamil month of Thai.
• Baisakhi: Also known as Vaisakhi, this seasonal festival marks the first day of the month of Baisakh. It is celebrated every year on either 13 April or 14 April, at the start of harvest season in Punjab.
• Lohri: Celebrated annually on 13th January, Lohri is a popular Punjabi folk festival that symbolizes the victory of light over darkness.

Summer Season Festivals in India:

If you are in search of some summer season festivals in India, here is the list:

• Holi: Celebrated typically in the month of late February or early March, Holi is the festival of colors that marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring and summer.
• Mount Abu Summer Festival: It is a two-day celebration held annually during Buddha Purnima (May or June) in the hill station of Mount Abu, Rajasthan. It is a joyful celebration that showcases Rajasthan's tribal life and rich culture. This year, this festival will be celebrated from 10th May 2025 to 12th May 2025.
• Shimla Summer Festival: This festival is a multi-day cultural event held annually in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, typically in late May or early June. Shimla Summer Festival typically showcases the region's rich musical culture through major events like cultural star nights, flower shows, and painting competitions.

Winter Season Festivals in India:

India consists of a long list of vibrant festivals, depending on seasons, regions, communities, and religions. There are a few Indian festivals that are celebrated during the winter months with full excitement. Interested ones can scroll down to know more about winter festivals:

• Diwali: Diwali is celebrated across India usually in late October or early November every year. This winter festival marks the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
• Christmas: This festival is celebrated worldwide on 25th December every year and marks the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a celebration of love, compassion, and unity.
• Goa Carnival: Also known as Carnaval, Intruz, or Entrado, this is a four-day winter festival in India celebrated annually in Goa usually in the month of February or March. Goa Carnival features street parades, colorful floats, music, and lively entertainment.

Music Festivals in India 2025

We all know that music has the power to heal our grief and sorrow. Almost everyone's favorite hobby includes listening to their favorite music. However, only a true music fan can understand only the value of attending a live music concert. India organizes various music festivals for music lovers where renowned and talented singers and musicians showcase their talent. If you're also looking to find the list of top music festival in India 2025 that you can attend this year, here is the list:

• Hornbill Music Festival: It is a key part of the annual Hornbill Festival held in Nagaland. Hornbill Music Festival is one of the biggest music festivals in India that last for 10 days showcasing Naga heritage through music, dance, art, and traditional practices. The dates for this fest are from December 1st to 10th 2025 at Kisama Heritage Village near Kohima.
• Ziro Festival of Music: Typically, held in Ziro valley, Arunachal Pradesh, it is an outdoor music fest that celebrates passion, community, and cultural diversity. Ziro Festival is known for its eco-friendly ethos with stages and installations made from recycled materials. Those looking for this year's dates, let us tell you that expected dates for this music fest are scheduled for September 26 to September 29, 2025.
• Kasauli Rhythm and Blues Festival: Shortened as KRBF, it is an annual music festival that was conceived by Genesis Foundation in 2012. Ever year the foundation invites popular and newly artists from India's diverse pool of musical talent. This music fest will be held on 18th and 19th of April 2025 at Baikunth Resorts in Kasauli.

India, a land of diverse cultures and religious faiths, surprises travelers at every step. This is a country where every day brings a new charm with it. As for the festivals in India, every celebration is an example of how strongly connected each community is with the other in this country. People live in harmony and celebrate each festival with great excitement and fervor. Enjoying festivals here can be an experience of a lifetime. So, what's making you wait? Plan your festive trip, book the best India tour packages, and come witness the festivals of this amazing land of cultures.

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