As the cold chilly winter starts to bid goodbye, the weather in India becomes too pleasant not to travel. March is a time full of colours, fervour and high spirits, thanks to the festivals that fall in this month. It gives us a chance to learn about the diverse cultures that have coexisted in our country for centuries.
Planning a vacation this March? Here are 10 popular festivals that you can attend and have a wonderful time.
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1. Jaipur Elephant Festival
The Pink City is calling you for yet another spectacular festival. The Jaipur Elephant Festival honours Lord Ganesha, who is symbolised by elephants. On this day, the elephants are adorned with ornaments, fabrics and other decorative items. This event is known as the “Gaja Shringar,” and it is followed by a ceremonial parade. The attendees are entertained with live shows and performances by artists.
Where: Jaipur Polo Ground
When: 17th March
2. Mewar Holika Dahan
On the eve of Holi, the City Palace in Udaipur is illuminated by the light of a huge bonfire, also known as the Holika Dahan ceremony. It symbolises the annihilation of all evil and negativity. The following day, the festival of colours is celebrated. The Udaipur royal family graces the audience with their presence at this event.
Where: City Palace, Udaipur
When: 17th March
3. Basanta Utsav
Basant Utsav in Shantiniketan is a confluence of music and colours. The festival is celebrated with cultural programs and lively performances by university students. The spectators are transported into a state of awe and each and every soul is filled with happiness. Dress up in bright colours, and don’t forget to taste the mouthwatering Bengali dishes here.
Where: Shantiniketan, West Bengal
When: 16th-18th March
4. Shigmotsav
In Goa, Shigmotsav is the harbinger of spring. Winter bids adieu, and the Goans celebrate it with Shigmotsav or Shigmo festival. Processions are carried out in the streets with locals and tourists dancing to folk music, drumbeats and painting each other with gulaal. You can call it the Goan version of Holi. One gets to experience the rich culture of the state during this celebration.
Where: Goa
When: Starts 21st March
5. Velas Turtle Festival
Calling all photographers, nature and animal lovers to witness rare sea turtles at the Golden Sand Beach of Velas. It is a popular site for Olive Ridley turtles who hatch their eggs and make their way to the sea. You can enjoy the delicious food prepared by the locals and a scenic road trip in Konkan.
Where: Velas, Maharashtra
When: 4th-20th March
6. Lathmar Holi
Holi is a grand affair in Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna. Legend has it that Krishna once came to Barsana to tease Radha and was beaten up by her. This is why here holi is celebrated by playfully beating men with bamboo sticks. This festival is celebrated with a lot of fervour and enthusiasm in the cities of Barsana and Nandgaon.
Where: Barsana and Nandgaon, Mathura
When: 12th & 13th March
7. Myoko Festival
The Ziro tribes celebrate the Myoko festival to honour prosperity, fertility and sacrifice. It is a celebration of harmony and togetherness between the Apatani village tribes. Dressed in traditional attire, the locals sing, dance and prepare delicious meals during the festival. They also pray for a bountiful harvest.
Where: Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
When: 20th-30th March
8. Chapchar Kut Festival
Chapchar Kut is a spring festival of Mizoram where the locals celebrate the harvesting of bamboo shoots. Much like the Myoko Festival of Ziro, the natives dress in traditional clothes to sing and dance in merriment. The community comes together during this festival, and it can be your chance to get familiar with the state culture. It is celebrated on the first Friday of March every year.
Where: Mizoram
When: 4th March
9. Thirunakkara Arattu
Thirunakkara Arattu is a 10-day festival celebrated in Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple in Kottayam. The temple compound comes alive with breathtaking performances of Mayilattam (peacock dance), Velakalietc and Kathakali. The highlight of the festival are the nine majestic elephants who are a part of the Arattu procession.
Where: Kottayam, Kerala
When: 24th March
10. Chettikulangara Bharani
Dedicated to Goddess Bhagvathy, Chettikulangara Bharani is celebrated in Chettikulangara Temple in Alleppey. Grand processions are taken out in the countryside during this festival followed by fireworks, folk dance and music. The main attraction here is Kettukazcha, which are massive structures decorated with flowers, clothes, and ornaments.
Where: Alleppey, Kerala
When: 7th March
Before you go, do refer to our COVID guidelines tracker to know the travel rules for your destination. Happy travelling 😀
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