Plan your trip around India’s festivals, or avoid the crowds. Here are the major national festivals and the best-known regional events, starting from this month.
October
November
December
January
- Makar Sankranti / Pongal (mid-Jan) — Harvest festival; kite flying in Gujarat and Rajasthan, Pongal in Tamil Nadu
- Republic Day (26 Jan) — Parade in Delhi; some sights and roads close for rehearsals in late January
- Jaipur Literature Festival — Rajasthan
February
March
- Holi (Feb/Mar) — Festival of colours across North India; Mathura and Vrindavan are famous for it
- International Yoga Festival (Mar) — Rishikesh
April
May
- Ooty Flower Show (May) — Ooty
June
- Hemis Festival (Jun/Jul) — Ladakh
August
- Independence Day (15 Aug) — National holiday; Red Fort area in Delhi closes for the ceremony
- Nehru Trophy Boat Race (Aug) — Kerala
September
Many Indian festivals follow the lunar calendar, so the month can shift by a few weeks each year. Always confirm exact dates before you book.
Tips for travelling during festivals
- Book early: trains, flights and hotels fill up around Diwali, Holi, Durga Puja and the Christmas–New Year period, and prices rise.
- Expect closures: some offices, shops and sights close on major festival days, while others are busier than usual.
- Join respectfully: many festivals are religious. Dress modestly, follow local customs, and ask before taking photos at ceremonies.
- Holi safety: wear old clothes, protect your eyes and phone, and celebrate in a group.
See which destinations are at their best each month with the best time to visit checker.