Top 10 Festivals and Fairs in  Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is a state in northern India that is known for its vibrant and colourful festivals and fairs. Here are top 10 festivals and fairs in Uttarakhand.

1. Kumbh Mela –

Kumbh Mela is the largest religious gathering in the world, held once every 12 years in Haridwar. Millions of devotees come to take a dip in the holy river Ganges during this festival.

2. Nanda Devi Raj Jat Yatra –

This is a 22-day long pilgrimage, held once every 12 years in Uttarakhand. The pilgrimage covers a distance of 280 km and culminates at the Nanda Devi temple. It is considered to be one of the most challenging pilgrimages in the world.

3. Dehradun International Film Festival –

This is a film festival held annually in Dehradun, showcasing independent films from across the world.

4. Bikhauti Mela –

This is a popular fair held in Rishikesh, celebrated during the month of Chaitra to mark the arrival of spring.

5. Kumaon Festival –

This is a cultural festival celebrated in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, showcasing the traditional dance, music, and handicrafts of the region.

6. International Yoga Festival –

This is a week-long festival held annually in Rishikesh, featuring yoga workshops and seminars by renowned yoga teachers from across the world.

7. Uttarayani Mela –

This is a fair held in Bageshwar, celebrated in January, and is marked by a large gathering of traders and farmers who come to buy and sell goods.

8. Basant Panchami –

This is a festival celebrated across Uttarakhand to mark the arrival of spring. It is marked by the worship of the goddess Saraswati and the flying of kites.

9. Holi –

Holi is a festival of colors, celebrated across India, including Uttarakhand. It is marked by the throwing of colored powder and water, and is a symbol of the victory of good over evil.

10. Ganga Dussehra –

This festival is celebrated in several towns along the Ganges river, including Haridwar and Rishikesh. It is celebrated to mark the descent of the Ganges river from heaven to earth and is considered to be an important festival for Hindus.

These festivals and fairs are an important part of the culture and tradition of Uttarakhand, and offer visitors an opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of the region.