Plan around Diwali for lights and family celebrations, Holi for colour, or Pushkar for a Rajasthan fair. Holi is typically in March; Diwali and Pushkar usually fall in October or November. This page separates confirmed dates from typical seasons: Diwali is on 8 November 2026 and the Pushkar Camel Fair runs 17-24 November 2026, according to Incredible India. Check local programmes before booking, especially for processions and ticketed events.
March
Holi
Usually March; lunar date changes each year. This is the usual time of year, not confirmed dates for a particular year.
The spring festival of colours brings coloured powders, music and neighbourhood gatherings. Celebrations vary by city and community.
For families: Choose a small, hosted celebration if travelling with children or seniors. Ask before throwing colour, protect eyes and phones, and do not assume everyone wants to join.
September
Dussehra / Dasara
Usually September or October; local programmes differ. This is the usual time of year, not confirmed dates for a particular year.
Celebrations mark the victory of good over evil through regional traditions, including Ramlila, processions and Mysuru's illuminated palace. The main date and programme lengths vary each year.
For families: Procession routes can be crowded and roads may close. With seniors or young children, choose a shorter viewing plan and agree on a meeting point.
October
Diwali
8 Nov 2026 · Dates from Ministry of Tourism, Government of India (Incredible India), checked 31 Oct 2026
The festival of lights brings lamps, rangoli, sweets and family gatherings. The main night in 2026 is 8 November; surrounding celebrations vary locally.
For families: Book transport and rooms early if travelling over the holiday. Choose a quieter place to stay for anyone sensitive to smoke, fireworks or sudden noise.
Pushkar Camel Fair
17 Nov 2026 to 24 Nov 2026 · Dates from Ministry of Tourism, Government of India (Incredible India), checked 31 Oct 2026
A livestock fair and pilgrimage with markets, folk performances and gatherings around Pushkar Lake. Incredible India lists 17-24 November for the 2026 fair.
For families: Expect crowds, dusty walking and busy roads. Stay near the part of town you want to explore and plan breaks rather than a full day in the fairgrounds.
November
Rann Utsav
Usually Winter, usually November to February; programme dates vary. This is the usual time of year, not confirmed dates for a particular year.
A winter celebration of Kutch crafts, music, dance and the salt-desert landscape. Check the current programme and the operator of any tent stay before booking.
For families: Pack layers for evenings and sun protection for daytime. Confirm transfers, meal arrangements and how much walking each activity involves.
December
Hornbill Festival
Usually 1-10 December is the usual annual window. This is the usual time of year, not confirmed dates for a particular year.
Nagaland's cultural festival brings traditional performances, crafts, food and music to Kisama and other venues. Check Nagaland Tourism for the current programme and visitor requirements.
For families: Allow time for road travel and walking between venues. Ask about access and seating before bringing anyone who needs a low-walking day.
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