“…April, dressed in all his trim,
Hath put a spirit of youth in everything…” – William Shakespeare
April is here, the last month before the unbearable summers finally hit us. It’s also, however, the season of new beginnings and new travel plans. We know it is unusually warm for spring this year (*lowers the AC temperature* :P), but if you dare to call yourself a travel buff, the weather’s got nothing on you.
Are you planning to travel this April? Then here are 10 popular fairs and festivals you must attend.
1. Red Fort Festival
The vibrant Bharat Bhagya Vidhata Red Fort Festival is currently in full swing in India’s heart, Delhi. It is a celebration of our rich cultural heritage, showcasing crafts, cuisines and captivating performances by renowned artists. The 10-day festival that kicked off on 25th March is set to conclude on 3rd April. So, if you still haven’t visited, this weekend is your chance.
When: Till 3rd April
Where: Lahori Gate, Delhi
2. Apricot Festival
This spring, the apricot blossoms are in full bloom in Ladakh, making it the ideal time to visit. As if the region wasn’t already stunning, the flowers are the icing on the cake. Ladakh Tourism is holding a festival to celebrate the beauty of these flowers. On your visit, you can also buy some local apricot jams, syrups and juices.
When: 13th – 22nd April
Where: Ladakh
3. Tulip Festival
Move over, Amsterdam, because Kashmir will be stealing the show with its beautiful tulips this season. The Tulip Festival will be held at the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, where around 40 varieties of tulips will enchant you. This colourful festival is celebrated every year at the onset of spring and attracts visitors from all over the world.
When: March – April
Where: Srinagar, Kashmir
4. Mopin Festival
The Mopin Festival is a harvest festival celebrated by the Galo tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. The locals worship Mopin Ane, the Goddess of fertility and prosperity on this day. They perform the folk dance ‘popir’ and enjoy the Apong rice wine. Although the festival falls on 5th April, the preparations start days in advance and continue till 7th – 8th April.
When: 5th April
Where: Arunachal Pradesh
5. India Art Festival
This one’s for all the art connoisseurs in the house. The India Art Festival will be hosting 700+ artists and 50 art galleries from across the country and the Asian subcontinent in April. The festival will feature everything from paintings and artworks to sculptures and ceramics. It’s a great place to meet fellow artists and art enthusiasts.
When: 7th – 10th April
Where: Constitution Club of India, New Delhi
6. Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Fest
Calling all cinema lovers in Manipur and around to attend the first edition of the Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Fest. It will screen films by master filmmakers of India such as Satyajit Ray, Adoor Gopalakrishnan, G. Aravindam, Girish Kasaravalli and Mrinal Sen. Two Manipuri films will also be making their premiere at the event.
When: 2nd – 6th April
Where: Manipur
7. Aoling Festival
The Aoling Festival is celebrated by the Konyak tribes of Nagaland. The Konyaks were a headhunting tribe who are now involved in a variety of agricultural activities. The Aoling Festival marks the end of seed sowing and the beginning of a new year, full of new hopes. Every year in early April, it is celebrated for ten days.
When: 1st – 10th April
Where: Nagaland
8. Bonjour India
A celebration of Indian and French cultures, the fourth edition of ‘Bonjour India’ will take place in 19 cities across India. The festival will showcase the cultures of both countries through events in domains like science, literature, performing arts, photography, cinema, etc. It will also mark 75 years of Indo-French diplomatic relations.
When: Starts 12th April
Where: Across India
9. Kadammanitta Padayani
Kadammanitta Padayani takes place every year in the Malayalam month of Medam. The festival lasts for 10 days and is held at the Kadammanitta Bhagavathy Temple. Padayani is performed as an offering to Goddess Kali and often depicts the Goddess triumphing over Daarikan, an evil character. During this festival, a grand procession is held along with folk songs and dance performances.
When: 14th – 23rd April
Where:Kerala
10. Attuvela Mahotsavam
Attuvela Mahotsavam is a water carnival in which a decorated replica of a temple drifts down the water accompanied by a cluster of small canoes. It is believed to be a welcome ceremony for the Goddess of Kodungalloor who arrives to visit her sister, the Goddess of Elamkavu. It is a two-day festival that takes place at the Elamkavu Bhagavathy Temple.
When: 3rd April
Where: Kerala
We wish you a wonderful and safe trip. Happy travelling! 😀
For more travel ideas, stay tuned to ixigo.
