Festivals in India are integral part of culture, society and people and speaking of the rich traditional background of the place, Northern India enjoys many event, fairs and festivals through out the year. There are various festivals of North India that play an important role attracting tourists in India.
Nagaur Fair (Nagaur, Rajasthan)
Being one of the largest cattle fair held in the country, Nagaur Fair is a large display of cows, bullocks, camels and horses. Around thousands of animals are brought here for trading purposes. This fair is held every year starting from late January to mid February at Nagaur, a place located somewhere between Bikaner and Jodhpur.
Taj Mahotsav (Agra, Uttar Pradesh)
In the month of February, as the spring season arrives, it spreads its flaming insignia of aroma and leafage through out the atmosphere. It is this time when Agra burst into colorful celebrations with the arrival of Taj Mahotsav, an absolute jubilation of Uttar Pradesh’s rich heritage of arts, crafts, culture, cuisine, dance and music. Lasting for 10 days, the Taj Festival is the time when you can observe the inherent culture and tradition of Uttar Pradesh.
Urs Fair (Ajmer, Rajasthan)
Devoted to Khwaja Moin-ud-din Chishti, the Sufi saint, marking his death anniversary. Innumerable followers from different places and communities get together at the shrine of the saint at the time of celebrations during the first six days of Rajab (7th month of the Islamic calendar) at the memorial of the holy saint, situated in the lakeside city of Ajmer. Musical extravaganza (Qawwalis) and evening of poetic verses (Mushairaas) are its major attractions.
Pushkar Cattle Fair (Pushkar, Rajasthan)
The cattle fair held at Pushkar in the state of Rajasthan is globally famous for its cultural significance. The location of the town in the valley and its hill and desert surroundings provide a perfect backdrop to the whole scene that unfurls here every year in the month of Octover-November. This largest camel fair begins on Karthik Shukla Ekadashi and continues for five consecutive days. Various cultural activities take place during the fair. Shopping at the fair stalls makes up for a wonderful experience.
Desert Festival (Jaisalmer, Rajasthan)
The festival brings whole of the Thar Desert to life. The rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan can be experienced at its best as you become a part of the Desert Festival, held in the desert city of Jaisalmer. Major attractions of the festival include Gair and Fire dance. Apart from these folk performances, there are participants like snake charmers, acrobats and puppeteers. Camel rides, camel polo and camel dance during the event are much popular with visitors. Mr Desert contest also adds much to the charm.
Id ul Fitr (All Over India)
Carrying a reputation of being the most important festival for Muslims around the country and world. One can imagine its celebrations, and since there is big Muslim gentry found in the northern part of the country, the festival is celebrated with a huge bang. One can experience the purest of culture during this time. Its date is generally decided according to the Muslim calender, and as per theology the date generally marks end of fasting month ( Ramadan) for Muslims.
Diwali (All Over India)
North India can be considered as the most populous region of the country and thus, the culture and ethics generally gave its root from the region. Diwali holds major reputation amongst the festivals in India. Popularly marked through crackers, prayers in each and every temple and home, sweets of unlimited varieties, stage shows and drama and most importantly the blend of different colors along the streets, home, edifices, parks and clothings, its an amazing experience to be part of such stunning celebrations.
Lohri (Punjab)
A propitious happening that is celebrated as the crop festival of Punjab, a famous North Indian state. Lohri is rejoiced with great delight and ardor particularly among the farmers society as this festival is associated with the harvesting of the winter crops. It holds major importance among Sikhs and Hindus and therefore it celebrated with great zeal.
