India is a land of different religions, culture, places, tradition and so on. Due to this beautiful amalgamation of cultures, it is one country where many festivals are celebrated throughout the year. This post will help you plan your travel to places during their respective festival, so it enriches your travel experience and give you a chance to become a part of the place, its culture, and tradition.
- Mathura:
(Photo: Nisarg Lakhmani)
Starting with Mathura, which is known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna. It is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh and approximately 150 km from Delhi. One can feel the spirituality of the place at every step due to the numerous temples. Another sacred place, located just 11 km away from Mathura is Vrindavan. It is believed that Lord Krishna spent most of his childhood years here.
Festivals to attend: To see both places at its best, plan your visit during the two major festivals, i.e. Krishna Janmashtami and Holi. Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated to mark the birth of Lord Krishna while Holi aka Festival of colours is celebrated for various beliefs across states. Some celebrate as a day of victory of good over evil and others to commemorate the love of Radha & Krishna or to welcome spring.
Places to visit: Banke-Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, Shri Krishna Janmasthan & Dwarkadhish Temple in Mathura
2. Jama Masjid, Delhi
Jama Masjid (Photo: Harsha Jindal)
A place known for its religious and historical significance with beautiful architecture is Jama Masjid. It is located in the old city of Delhi and surrounded by crowded and narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk. It was built in the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. A mesmerising structure with three domes so huge that it can be seen from far away in the bustling city.
Festival to attend: The good vibes of the place can be felt throughout the year, however, on the day of Eid nothing can beat the beauty of this place. Please note, the non-muslims visitors are not allowed in the shrine during the prayer times so plan your trip accordingly.
Places to visit: Hazrat Nizammudin Dargah, Old fort, Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Lotus temple
3. Varanasi
Aarti at Varanasi (Photo: Ainitom Das)
Varanasi is a perfect place for experiencing the culture, history, religion and philosophy of life in one place. It is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh and also called by other names like Banaras or Kashi (don’t get confused). It’s a surreal experience to be here as one can see the cycle of life from birth to death. From the religious point, it is believed that Lord Shiva resides in the form of jyotirlinga named Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi.
Festival to attend: The place is full of tourists throughout the year nonetheless, it is recommended to visit during Maha Shivratri to get absorbed into the energy. Though there are various legends associated with Maha Shivratri, however, all celebrate the life events of Lord Shiva.
Places to visit: Kashi Vishwanath, Sankat Mochan & Baba Kaal Bhairav temple and Manikarnika, Dashawamedh & Assi Ghat
4. Mumbai:
(Photo: Barry Silver)
The City of Dreams (Mayanagri), Mumbai, located in the state of Maharashtra, has always been in the spotlight due to the presence of the expanding Indian film industry. However, it holds more than the Bollywood charm to it. It has been an important place even before the independence, regarded as a critical port for trade and entry point for travellers from across the world.
Festival to attend: There are many historically significant places in Mumbai, but to see the cultural aspect of the place we would recommend you to visit during the celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi. This festival is to celebrate the birth of Lord Ganesh who is the symbol of wisdom, prosperity & good fortune. It lasts for 10 days, and on the last day; the idols are taken out in a colourful procession and immersed in the water. One can easily enjoy the procession from wherever you are in Mumbai.
Places to visit: Mahalaxmi & Siddhivinayak Temple, Haji Ali Dargah, St. Thomas Cathedral
Other festivals which we would recommend for your trip to India are Navratri in Gujarat, Durga Puja in West Bengal, Bihu in Assam and many more. There is always some interesting festivity round the year, so take your pick, pack your bags and relish the experience!
