Top 12 Rajasthan Festivals You Can't Miss in 2023

Rajasthan is the land of rich culture and captivating heritage. Talking about this state you can’t miss the sparkling famous festivals of Rajasthan that are celebrated with great pomp and show. Some are wholly cultural events, while others reflect ethnicity or tradition. These celebrations of life, history, and culture are undoubtedly done in the traditional Rajasthani manner during these festivals.

Amazing and Sparkling Festivities to Experience in Rajasthan

The tourists have the chance to view the many shades of the state. Rajasthan is the state that best captures Incredible India. And until you participate in one of many Rajasthan fairs or festivals, your visit will never be complete. They are a celebration of life, culture, history, and nature in the best traditions of Rajasthan. Prepare yourself and reserve your seats to experience this winter's vivacious, warm, and dynamic desert festivities! You can’t definitely miss these Rajasthan festivals and celebrations if you are planning to visit this state anytime soon.

1. Rajasthan International Folk Festival, Jodhpur

RIFF, also known as the Rajasthan International Folk Festival is a yearly music and art festival that promotes traditional folk music and arts. It has been recognized as a "People's Platform for Creativity and Sustainable Development" and is supported by Sir Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones and the Maharaja of Jodhpur. This festivity is held at Jodhpur's Mehrangarh Fort during Sharad Purnima and is considered a rare celebration of both Indian and foreign music. This event is a true treat for music and art lovers, drawing more than 200 musicians from around the world. Notably, this celebration falls on the Marwar festival weekend.

2. Desert Festival, Jaisalmer

The Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation hosts the “Desert Festival” i.w. A three-day celebration of the beauties of the desert during the month of February. Songs and dance fill the air, as performers dressed in vibrant colors and traditional garb portray the tragedies and triumphs of the desert. A display of desert customs and way of life, camel races, gymnastic feats, competitions for the longest mustache, best turban, and Mr. Desert, among others, exquisite food, and fascinating stalls offering handicrafts and other souvenirs will make it a memorable three days in your life.

3. Pushkar Fair, Pushkar

Pushkar Fair, the giant of all desert celebrations, is a magnificent five-day camel and animal fair held in Rajasthan's Pushkar town on the banks of Pushkar lake. Additionally, it falls on Kartik Ekadashi, a Hindu holiday marking the day that Lord Brahma was believed to have created the lake at Pushkar. The Pushkar fair, which is primarily a livestock fair for the buying and selling of camels, draws throngs of tourists, transforming it into a veritable cultural extravaganza of art, music, dance, puppet shows, gipsy dance, races, and competitions with a variety of vendors selling mouthwatering snacks like camel milk cheeses and cakes, jewelry, shawls, and other trinkets.

4. Teej Festival, Jaipur

Teej, one of the greatest Rajasthan cultural festivals also celebrated in West India, honors a woman's devotion to her husband as well as the beginning of the monsoon season. To mark the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, the ladies of the community observe fasting, decorate their hands with mehndi, take leisurely swing rides, sing and dance with other women, share tales, and dress in festive clothes. Jaipur's markets and bazaars are loaded with alluring apparel, jewelry, and treats like Ghewar and Malpua.

5. Literature Festival, Jaipur

The JLF, or Jaipur Literature Festival, is one of the most renowned events in Rajasthan, celebrating both budding and veteran authors. Held at Diggi Palace, it brings together Nobel Laureates, Booker Prize winners, and literary enthusiasts from around the globe. It’s a remarkable platform for exchanging ideas and discovering new voices in literature.

6. Elephant Festival, Jaipur

Celebrated during Holi at the Jaipur Polo Ground, the Elephant Festival showcases Rajasthan’s traditional customs. Elephants are adorned in colorful attire and jewelry, taking part in races, performances, and tug-of-war matches, creating a vibrant and regal spectacle.

7. Winter Festival, Mount Abu

This festival honors artisans and artists from India and around the world. The Winter Festival features local crafts, cuisines, folk music, and storytelling, wrapping up each night with grand fireworks. It’s a cultural highlight in Mount Abu.

8. Summer Festival, Mount Abu

Held during Buddha Poornima, the Summer Festival lasts three days and includes live music, boat races in Nakki Lake, tug-of-war contests, and rich displays of Rajasthani traditions. It’s a vibrant celebration of summer in the only hill station of Rajasthan.

9. Camel Fair, Pushkar

The Pushkar Camel Fair is globally famous, drawing thousands of camels and traders to the holy town. Beyond camel trading, the fair includes acrobats, folk dances, musical shows, and snake charmers. The nearby Brahma Temple adds spiritual charm to the festive atmosphere.

10. Mewar Festival, Udaipur

Celebrated to welcome spring, the Mewar Festival is rich with folk dances, traditional music, and delectable food. Set in the picturesque city of Udaipur, it's one of the world’s most unique heritage festivals, celebrating Mewar's regal culture.

11. Kumbhalgarh Festival

Hosted at the majestic Kumbhalgarh Fort, this festival features breathtaking dance and music performances by local artists. Fireworks light up the skies as the fort provides a grand royal backdrop. It’s an unforgettable treat for art and culture lovers.

12. Bundi Utsav

A three-day cultural carnival held in the town of Bundi, featuring folk performances, cultural competitions, and ethnic sports. The Shobha Yatra, where traditionally dressed women carry pitchers on their heads, is the highlight of this vibrant celebration.

Conclusion

Rajasthan’s festivals bring alive its royal heritage and colorful traditions. From camel fairs to literature conclaves, each event offers a unique glimpse into the soul of this desert state. Plan your trip around these festivals to fully immerse yourself in the culture, art, and festivities of Rajasthan.

FAQs about Festivals in Rajasthan

How many festivals are there in Rajasthan? Rajasthan hosts more than 25 colorful festivals each year, celebrating its heritage, landscapes, and traditions through fairs, music, and food.

What is the main festival or Utsav of Rajasthan? The Gangaur Festival is considered the main Utsav of Rajasthan. Celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, it's observed widely across the state with devotion and grandeur.

Where is Marwar Utsav celebrated in Rajasthan? The Marwar Festival is celebrated in Jodhpur during the full moon of Sharad Poornima. It lasts for two days and showcases Marwar’s cultural legacy.

Which Mela is famous in Rajasthan? The Pushkar Camel Fair (Pushkar Mela) is Rajasthan’s most famous mela, held annually in Pushkar during October–November. It features camel trading, folk music, dance, and cultural performances.