How to Experience India’s Festivals as a Traveler: A Complete Guide

India is a land of festivals, where celebrations are a vibrant tapestry of culture, tradition, and community spirit. From the colourful revelry of Holi to the lights of Diwali, from the grandeur of Durga Puja to the mystique of Pushkar Camel Fair, there’s no better way to immerse yourself in India’s soul than by experiencing its festivals.

Each festival in India is more than just an event—it’s a deeply rooted cultural expression that brings people together. Attending these festivals can be transformative as a traveller, offering insights into India’s traditions, cuisine, music, and spirituality. But festivals can also be overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. Knowing where to go, how to prepare, and how to participate respectfully is essential for a fulfilling experience.

This guide is here to help. From choosing the right festival to understanding local customs, you’ll learn how to make the most of India’s festive magic. And if planning feels daunting, our travel concierge service can help you organise your festival experience with personalised itineraries, local insights, and 24/7 support.

Let’s dive into India's festivals, joy, colours, and celebrations!

Step 1: Choosing the Right Festival to Attend

India’s festival calendar is packed year-round, so picking the right one depends on your interests, timing, and location.

Popular National Festivals

• Holi (March): The festival of colours, celebrated across India. Best experienced in places like Mathura, Vrindavan, or Jaipur.

• Diwali (October/November): The festival of lights is celebrated nationwide with fireworks, feasts, and festive decor. Jaipur and Varanasi are exceptional for their grandeur.

Regional Highlights

• Durga Puja (October): Kolkata comes alive with elaborate pandals and cultural performances.

  

• Onam (August/September): A harvest festival celebrated in Kerala with boat races, traditional feasts, and floral designs.

• Pushkar Camel Fair (November): A unique blend of culture and commerce in Rajasthan, where camel trading meets colourful festivities.

Other Must-See Festivals

• Navratri (September/October): This nine-night festival of dance and devotion is best experienced in Gujarat with its iconic Garba and Dandiya Raas performances.

• Gokulashtami (August): Also known as Krishna Janmashtami, this festival celebrates Lord Krishna’s birth with midnight prayers and Dahi Handi competitions in cities like Mumbai and Mathura.

Pro Tip: Research the cultural significance of festivals before attending to appreciate their deeper meaning.

Not sure which festival to attend? Our concierge service can help you choose based on your travel dates and preferences.

Step 2: Preparing for a Festival in India

Festivals in India are often crowded, lively, and full of surprises. Proper preparation can ensure you enjoy the experience to the fullest.

Book in Advance

• Popular festivals attract visitors from across the world. Secure your accommodations and transport early.

• Homestays and boutique hotels often offer festival-specific experiences—book these for added immersion.

Dress Comfortably

• Wear bright, modest clothing to blend in with the festive spirit. For Holi, bring old clothes that you don’t mind staining.

• Carry a scarf or shawl for temple visits or cultural performances.

Stay Hydrated and Carry Essentials

• Festivals can be physically demanding, especially in hot or humid weather. Carry a reusable water bottle with a filter.

• Pack sunscreen, wet wipes, and a small first-aid kit.

Plan Your Day

• Check festival schedules in advance, including key events like Aartis, processions, or performances.

• Arrive early to secure a good spot and avoid crowds.

Pro Tip: For Navratri, join Garba dances with locals, and for Gokulashtami, find safe spots to watch Dahi Handi competitions.

Need help with festival bookings and preparations? Our concierge service ensures you’re fully equipped for every celebration.

Step 3: Participating Respectfully in Festivals

Festivals in India are deeply rooted in culture and spirituality, so participating respectfully is essential.

Understand Local Customs

• Learn the significance of the festival you’re attending.

• Follow etiquette at religious ceremonies, such as removing shoes or covering your head when required.

Engage with the Community

• Join in traditional activities like Rangoli making during Diwali, dancing during Navratri, or playing with colours during Holi.

  

  
  

• Taste festive foods—each festival has signature dishes like gujiyas for Holi, payasam for Onam, or prasad for Gokulashtami.

Avoid Disruptive Behaviour

• Respect queues, especially during temple visits or public ceremonies.

• Avoid excessive noise or pushing in crowded areas.

Photography Tips

• Ask for permission before taking photos of people or rituals.

• Capture moments discreetly without interrupting proceedings.

Pro Tip: Locals will often invite you to join in the celebrations. Say yes—it’s the best way to truly experience the festival!

Need local etiquette tips? Our concierge service offers guidance for respectful and immersive festival participation.

Step 4: Festival-Specific Travel Tips

Each festival comes with its own set of travel considerations.

Holi

• Protect your skin and hair with coconut oil before playing with colours.

• Use natural, eco-friendly powders to avoid irritation.

Diwali

• Book evening boat rides in Varanasi to witness the illuminated ghats and Aarti ceremonies.

• Avoid crowded marketplaces during peak hours for a safer experience.

Navratri

• Head to Gujarat for the most authentic Garba and Dandiya Raas performances.

• Wear traditional attire like chaniya cholis or kediyus to blend in with the locals.

Gokulashtami

• In Mumbai, find safe viewing spots for Dahi Handi competitions, where teams form human pyramids to break a clay pot of curd.

• In Mathura and Vrindavan, join the midnight prayers and bhajans celebrating Krishna’s birth.

Pushkar Camel Fair

• Wear comfortable walking shoes—the fairgrounds are expansive.

• Bargain respectfully if shopping for handicrafts or souvenirs.

Want festival-specific travel tips? Our concierge service crafts detailed guides for every celebration you attend.

Conclusion

India’s festivals are an invitation to experience its vibrant culture and community spirit. By choosing the right festival, preparing thoroughly, and participating respectfully, you can immerse yourself in the heart of India’s traditions.

Still unsure about where to begin? Our concierge service is here to plan every detail, from booking your stay to guiding you through the festivities.

Are you ready to celebrate India’s festivals? Let’s make your journey unforgettable!