30 Festivals of Rajasthan You Simply Cannot Miss!

Here is a list of 30 Festivals of Rajasthan that you simply cannot miss:

1. Rajasthan International Folk Festival, Jodhpur

Hailed as a 'People's Platform for Creativity and Sustainable Development' and patronised by the Maharaja of Jodhpur and Sir Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones, RIFF is an annual music and art festival for the promotion of traditional folk music and arts. It is celebrated around Sharad Purnima, the brightest full moon night of the year and is a unique celebration of Indian as well as international music at Jodhpur's Mehrangarh Fort. More than 200 musicians from around the globe attend this festival, making it an absolute treat for music and art lovers. It coincides with the Marwar festival.

Dates: October 16th - 20th, 2024
Location: Mehrangarh Fort and Museum, Jodhpur

2. Desert Festival, Jaisalmer

A three-day event organised by the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation in the month of February, it is an absolute bonanza that celebrates the delights of the desert. The atmosphere is alive with song and dance, with the artists dressed in bright colours and traditional finery, depicting the tragedies and accomplishments of the desert. A showcase of desert rituals and life, camel races, gymnastic stunts, several competitions like the longest moustache, turban tying, Mr Desert etc, delicious food and interesting stalls selling handicrafts and other souvenirs will make it a memorable 3 days of your life
 
Dates: 22 - 24 February 2024
Location: Sam Dunes (42 kilometres from Jaisalmer)

3. Pushkar Fair, Pushkar

The Big Daddy of all desert festivals, Pushkar Fair is a spectacular five-day camel and livestock fair held in the town of Pushkar, on the banks of the Pushkar lake in Rajasthan. It also coincides with the religious celebration of Kartik Ekadashi, when the Pushkar lake was supposed to be created by Lord Brahma. Primarily a livestock fair for the buying and selling of camels, the Pushkar fair attracts hordes of tourists making it a true cultural bonanza of art, music, dance, puppet shows, gypsy dance, races, competitions with a host of vendors selling delicious snacks including camel milk cheeses and cakes, jewellery, shawls and other titbits. The entire festive and spiritual atmosphere completely lights up the desert in these five days.

Dates: Saturday, 9 Nov, 2024 – Friday, 15 Nov, 2024
Location: Pushkar Fair Ground, Pushkar, Ajmer, Rajasthan

4. Teej Festival, Jaipur

One of west India's biggest festivals, Teej commemorates two things - a woman's love for her husband and the advent of the monsoon season. The festival is marked by colourful celebrations where the womenfolk observe fasting and apply mehndi designs on their hands, enjoy long swing rides, song and dance with other women, tell stories and deck up in festive attire to celebrate the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The markets and bazaars of Jaipur are filled to the brim with attractive clothes, jewellery and sweets like Ghewar and Malpua. A procession of a decorated idol of Goddess Parvati is carried through Jaipur, and thousands of devotees and tourists throng to see the procession and the antique palanquins, chariots, bands, folk music and dance and soak in the cultural revelry.

Dates: Hariyali Teez - Wednesday ,07 August 2024
Kajari Teej - Thursday,  22 August 2024
Hartalika Teej - Friday,  06 September 2024
Location: Chaugan Stadium, Jaipur, Rajasthan 

5. Gangaur Festival, Jaipur

Another festival that commemorates the goddess Parvati and her home-coming, it is celebrated with huge fanfare in Rajasthan by women. Processions of a decked up Goddess Gauri are carried all over the city and everyone participates in these processions, often accompanied by elephant processions, old palanquins, chariots,  folk song and dance and often ends with fireworks.  It coincides with the Mewar Festival in Udaipur. This is a very famous festival of Rajasthan.

Dates: March 26 - April 11, 2024
Location: Across Jaipur

6. Jaipur Literature Festival, Jaipur

Perhaps not as glamorous as some of the other festivals on this list, JLF is the world's largest free literary festival. Nobel laureates, Booker prize winners, debut novelists - the who's who of the literary world come together for five days of readings, discussions and debates at the Diggi Palace in Jaipur. A great platform that provides access to some of the greatest authors and thinkers on this planet and gives courage to young minds to dream and imagine, it is not a chance anyone should miss.

Dates: 1st - 5th February 2024
Location: Diggi Palace, Jaipur

7. Nagaur Fair, Nagaur

The second largest fair in the country, it is essentially a cattle fair that attracts more than two lakh animal owners to bring their horses, cows, bullocks, oxen, camels etc. to be a part of a large trade show. A lot of animal races and cockfights in the day, followed by some dance and music in the nights attracts tourists and animal owners alike. Organised by the Department of Animal Husbandry, it brings out the true Rajput flavour of Rajasthan.

Dates: February 15 – 18, 2024
Location: Nagaur, Jodhpur

8. Summer and Winter Festivals, Mt. Abu

Celebrated to showcase the warmth and culture of the people belonging to the only hill station in Rajasthan, both these festivals are held over a period of three days, in May and December respectively. They are marked by processions all over town, followed by a range of competitions, folk dance and music and dazzling fireworks to celebrate the spirit of the town. A unique combination of divine hospitality and exotic location attracts a large number of tourists during the festival days.

Dates: Summer Festival - 10th to 12th May 2024, Winter Festival - 29th December 2023 to 2nd February 2024
Location: Nakki lake and Pologround, Mt.Abu

9. World Sufi Spirit Festival, Gangaur, Jodhpur

Hosting artists from Mongolia, Afghanistan, Africa, Italy etc. and also from various parts of the state and the country, it is a very exclusive event that attracts a limited number of patrons. A very simple affair means you can sit down to chat with some of the brilliant artists or even the royalty of Jodhpur. Add to that some delicious food and the ambience of the spectacularly lit-up Nagaur fort, and you will surely have the experience to cherish for a lifetime.

Dates: 23rd to 25th February 2024
Location: Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

10. Kite Festival, Jodhpur

The Kite Festival in Jodhpur transforms the vibrant sky into a riot of colors as enthusiasts gather to celebrate this traditional event. Held annually, the festival marks the arrival of spring and is a jubilant occasion for locals and visitors alike. The clear blue skies of Jodhpur become adorned with a multitude of kites of various shapes and sizes, creating a spectacular visual feast. Participants engage in friendly kite battles, showcasing their skills in maneuvering and cutting opponents' strings. The festival embodies the spirit of camaraderie, with the rhythmic sounds of dholak and cheers echoing through the air.

Dates: 14th - 16th January
Location: Jodhpur Polo Ground, Jodhpur

11. Camel Festival, Bikaner

Organised in the honour of the ship of the desert, the Camel Festival is a spectacular festival celebrated in Bikaner. Just like the other celebrations of Rajasthan, this festival kicks off with great pomp and show. Celebrated every year in the pleasant January, the Camel Festival is a two-day long affair with a colourful parade of the decked up camels against the backdrop of the magnificent Junagadh Fort. It includes camel race, camel games and other cultural performances. Though celebrated to glorify the camels of Rajasthan, this festival also includes the traditional Rajasthani folk performances. The festival concludes with an awe-inspiring display of fireworks, illuminating the majestic skies of Bikaner.

Dates: 13th -15th January
Location: Karni Singh Stadium, Bikaner

Read more about Camel Festival in Bikaner

12. Mewar Festival, Udaipur

The city of Udaipur comes alive with colours of festivities during the Mewar Festival which marks the advent of spring in the region. It is a major Rajasthan festival and people from all over the globe flock to Udaipur to witness the glory of the town during this time. The whole town is decorated with bright lights and a joyous mood reigns in the air. This festival includes a number of practices, like dressing the idols of Isar and Gangaur and carrying them in a traditional procession through various parts of the city. People also engage in cultural dance and songs, revealing the colourful culture of Rajasthan.

13. Urs Festival, Ajmer

Usually held in the month of May and June, the Urs Festival is one of the major festivals celebrated at the venerated Ajmer Sharif Dargah. Hordes of pilgrims travel to this town, located to the West of Jaipur to visit this holy shrine.  The Urs Festival commemorates the death anniversary of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, the revered Sufi Saint. The fair is held for six days because it is believed that the Khwaja Moinuddin cooked for six days before he left his mortal remains. His followers from all over the world throng Ajmer to seek his blessings during these six sacred days.

14. Brij Holi, Bharatpur

The most loved festival in India is celebrated in a grand and elaborate style, a few days ahead before Holi, in Bharatpur located in the Brij region of Rajasthan. The spirit of the city comes alive during this festival, with people dressed in their brightest attires and singing colourful songs. Lord Krishna is worshipped in this festival, thus the entire love story of Krishna and Radha is showcased in the form of a dance, which is the unique feature of this festival. The entire region is immersed in the colours of Holi during this time and the people are at their merriest self. Tourists from far and wide come to Bharatpur to experience the out of the world festivities.

15. Kota Adventure Festival

Combine adventure with spirituality and you have the Kota Adventure Festival! It is one of the fascinating festivals of Rajasthan, held during Dussehra in the month of October.  During this festival, adventure sports are organised which beckons people from every part of the country. The main aim of the festival is to boost the tourism of the state. It is a week-long haven for adventure enthusiasts since the key events include rafting, windsurfing, parasailing, kayaking rock climbing, trekking, angling and rural excursions. The main highlight of the festival is kite flying. Name any adventure sports and you would probably find it at the Kota Adventure Festival.

16. Elephant Festival, Jaipur

The hub of grand festivals and celebrations, Rajasthan, is the centre for the unique and much awaited Camel Festival, held annually in the Pink City, Jaipur. The festival is organised to highlight the importance of elephants in Rajasthan and takes place during the time of Holi. Groomed to perfection and glittering in gold, the elephants' catwalk amidst an enthralled audience, with musicians playing the folk songs. Games like elephant polo, elephant race, tug-of-war, and elephant decoration are the highlights of this festival. It commemorates with the people mounting on the elephants and playing with colours. This unique festival is definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Dates: 25th March
Location: Chaugan Stadium, Jaipur

17. Chandrabhaga Fair, Jhalawar

Jhalawar is a princely state located in south-eastern Rajasthan which is the host to the Chandrabhaga Fair every year during the month of October and November. This is predominantly a cattle fair which is held on the auspicious day of Kartik Purnima when thousands of people take a dip in the holy Chandrabhaga River. It is considered a holy place by the local people who call is Chandravati. Just like the famous Pushkar fair, this fair also organises the cattle fair where livestock is available for re-sale. Traders and merchants from all over the country flock here and take part in this fair in Rajasthan.

Dates: October - November(dates yet to be announced)
Location: Jhalrapatan, 6 kms from Jhalawar

18. Sacred Festival

Sacred Festival or Shree, as it is popularly known, is a festival celebrating the rich spiritual and musical tradition of the state. It is globally acclaimed and attracts thousands of tourists from across the world. It is celebrated in the antiquated town on Pushkar. Every year, the government of Rajasthan and Department of Tourism come together to put together this festival. Renowned musicians across the state are called to showcase their talent. This festival celebrates spirit, prosperity and self-disclosure through the medium of music. Tourists may find several corners allocated to healing sound, heritage walks, soul-stirring music and holistic therapies. This festival is dedicated to the revival of the entire body, mind and soul. Apart from the musical aspect, you may also find huge shops selling delicious Rajasthani delicacies and artwork.

Dates: 23rd to 25th February, 2024 
Location: Jaipur Ghat, Pushkar

19. Bundi Utsav

The Bundi Utsav is the main festival in Rajasthan and major attraction of the town of Bundi. It is located 39 km, Northwest of Kota. It is a little off beaten track for tourists. The town of Bundi sets a beautiful backdrop for this festival. It is dotted with palaces and forts which make you feel like you’re in a fairy tale. The nearby river of Chambal gives ample opportunities for water sport activities. As the entire festival is a celebration of the town, the stalls and shops set up of the natives themselves. Seldom are people called from outside. It also hosts various competitions like the turban weaving and moustache competition. The festival has various food stalls, shops selling souvenirs and traditional art.  The festival also showcases cultural programs, ethnic sports, Shobha Yatra and the famous Fold Dance. The fireworks display marks the end of the festival and is absolutely breath-taking.

Dates: November- December  (month of Karthik)
Location: Bundi, Haodati District

20. Kumbhalgarh  festival

The Kumbhalgarh festival is a celebration of Maharana Kumbha’s contribution toward art and culture. It is celebrated in his place of residence, the Kumbhalgarh Fort. The Kumbhalgarh Fort is beautifully decorated during this time, with all the chandeliers being brought out for display along with other royal works of art. Traditional artists are called from all parts of India to showcase their craftsmanship from jewellers to potters. The festival is divided into three days with different themes on each day. There are also different competitions held each day, to bring out the enthusiasm of the visiting tourists. Kalbeliyas, Langas, Kachi Ghodi and Odissi dancers often hold dance sessions. The festival is a joint venture of the government of Rajasthan and the Department of Tourism to give a feel of India to foreigners.

Dates: Dates not announced yet for 2024
Location: Kumbhalgarh

21. Baneshwar festival

Baneshwar festival is a popular tribal Rajasthan festival held in Baneshwar, Dungarpur District. Baneshwar is a small delta formed by the river of Soma, which can be found 68 km from Dungarpur. Lord Shiva was also called Baneshwar and that is why this festival is dedicated to him. This festival unlike the other is celebrated to pay respect to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu through traditional rituals. It is a major attraction for tribals (especially Bhils) and tourists alike. Earlier, two fairs were held with each pair being dedicated to one god. But, in the present day, only one fair is held where processions are carried out from morning till night. The fair spans 5 days with each day being more action-packed than any other. The fair also holds multiple events such as magic shows, acrobatic performances, animal shows and much more.

Dates: 20th February, 2024
Location: Baneshwar

22. Kolayat Fair

Kolayat Fair is held in the beautiful city of Bikaner. This festival is a major event for the natives as well as the state of Rajasthan. It is eagerly awaited by the like. The fair holds a religious significance while providing ample opportunities for entertainment. The fair, like all others, attracts lakhs of tourist from around the world. What differentiates this festival from others is the famous ritual of dipping oneself in the Kolayat lake. The Kolayat lake is regarded highly by the natives and it is said that a dip in this river will provide you respite from all the sins that you may have done over the years. For this purpose, the ghats are beautifully decorated and lit. Stalls are set up on multiple locations selling a myriad of things from colourful bangles to delicious Rajasthani delicacies.

Dates: 27th-28th November 2024
Location: Bikaner

23. Braj Holi, Bharatpur

Braj Holi in Bharatpur is a vibrant and joyous celebration that immerses the city in a kaleidoscope of colors. This traditional festival is deeply rooted in the region's cultural and religious heritage, attracting locals and visitors alike. The lively festivities include traditional music, dance, and the exuberant throwing of colored powders, creating an unforgettable and spirited atmosphere.

Dates: Mon, 25 Mar, 2024
Location: Bharatpur

24. Shree The Sacred Festival, Puskar

Shree The Sacred Festival in Pushkar is a vibrant celebration that encapsulates the spiritual essence of this sacred town in Rajasthan, India. With colorful processions, traditional rituals, and devotional ceremonies, the festival brings together pilgrims and travelers alike to partake in the sacred atmosphere. Against the backdrop of Pushkar's iconic ghats and temples, Shree The Sacred Festival is a cultural tapestry that showcases the rich heritage and religious fervor of this renowned destination.

Dates: 09 November 2024 – 15 November 2024
Location: Jaipur Ghat, Pushkar

25. Marwar Festival, Jodhpur

Marwar Festival, celebrated in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, is a vibrant event that honors the rich cultural heritage of the Marwar region. This annual extravaganza showcases traditional music, dance, and art forms, bringing the essence of Rajasthan to life. The festival is marked by spirited performances of folk artists, showcasing the valor and romance of the Marwar rulers, and it provides a captivating glimpse into the vibrant traditions of the desert state.

Dates: Dates to be announced
Location: Jodhpur

26. Karni Mata Fair, Bikaner

The Karni Mata Fair in Bikaner, Rajasthan, is a vibrant and unique celebration held at the Karni Mata Temple. Devotees gather to pay homage to Karni Mata, the revered deity known as the "Rat Goddess." This lively fair is distinctive for the presence of thousands of rats, considered sacred, that roam freely within the temple premises.

Dates: March-April and September-October
Location: Bikaner

27. Gogaji Fair, Hanumangarh

Gogaji Fair, held in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan, is a vibrant and traditional event celebrating the legendary hero Goga Pir. Devotees from across the region gather to pay homage to Goga Pir, believed to have divine powers and revered for his compassion and bravery. The fair features colorful processions, folk music, and dance performances, creating a festive atmosphere. Pilgrims seek blessings at the Gogaji Temple, and the fair becomes a cultural spectacle with various traditional activities and rituals. Gogaji Fair is not only a religious pilgrimage but also a cultural extravaganza that showcases the rich heritage of Hanumangarh.

Dates: Dates yet to be announced
Location: Hanumangarh

28. The Kaila Devi Fair

The Kaila Devi Fair is an annual event celebrated with great fervor at the Kaila Devi Temple in Karauli, Rajasthan. Devotees gather to honor the goddess Kaila Devi, seeking blessings for prosperity and well-being. The fair typically takes place in the months of March and April during the Chaitra month of the Hindu calendar. Pilgrims participate in colorful processions, traditional music, and dance, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. The fair is not only a religious gathering but also a cultural extravaganza, showcasing the rich traditions of Rajasthan through folk performances, local crafts, and traditional Rajasthani cuisine.

Dates: For fifteen days in March or April.
Location: Karauli

29. Shri Mahaveerji Fair, Jaipur

Shri Mahavirji Fair in Jaipur is an annual religious event held in honor of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. Devotees from across the country gather to participate in the vibrant fair, marked by religious rituals, processions, and cultural activities. The highlight is the procession of the deity's idol, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. The fair is a cultural extravaganza with traditional performances, folk dances, and local crafts on display. This spiritual and cultural celebration provides a unique insight into the rich Jain heritage in the heart of Jaipur.

Dates: March - April.
Location: Jaipur

30. Baneshwar Fair, Dungarpur

Baneshwar Fair in Dungarpur is a vibrant and traditional fair held in the Baneshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This annual event takes place during the month of February, attracting devotees and tourists alike. The fair is renowned for its religious rituals, cultural performances, and a lively carnival-like atmosphere. Pilgrims participate in the sacred rituals at the confluence of rivers Mahi and Som, seeking blessings and spiritual fulfillment. The Baneshwar Fair is not only a religious gathering but also a celebration of the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the region.

Dates: January- February.
Location: Dungarpur

These are just some of the festivals and fairs in Rajasthan that make up the unique cultural melting pot that is this beautiful Indian state. Can we see you packing your bags already?