Uttarakhand, known as the "Devbhoomi" or "Land of the Gods," is a state that's rich in culture and traditions. One of the best ways to experience the essence of Uttarakhand's culture is by attending its festivals. With numerous festivals throughout the year, Uttarakhand is a hub of vibrant colours, joyous celebrations, and age-old rituals. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at some of the most popular festivals of Uttarakhand.
Here are some of the most popular festivals celebrated in Uttarakhand
Nanda Devi Mela
This major religious fair is held in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand and is dedicated to the much-loved goddess of the state, Nanda Devi. The festival is a perfect venue to catch a glimpse of rural traditional art and craft, including handloom textiles, wooden crafts, and handcrafted jewellery.
Purnagiri Mela
Held in the famous Shri Poornagiri Temple, this colourful and sacred festival commemorates Goddess Sati. The fair, held at Annapurna Peak, offers a panoramic view of the surrounding Himalayas and is a great opportunity to witness the state's unique cultural traditions.
Syalde Bhikauti Mela
Famed for its Oda Bhetna ritual, this fair is held in two venues and offers a melange of folk culture and religious sentiments. It is a perfect reflection of Uttarakhand and its rich cultural heritage.
Phool Dei Festival
This significant harvest festival in Uttarakhand is a reverence paid to the gods for the good crop year. On this occasion, little girls decorate the threshold of the houses with freshly picked flowers, and people prepare delicious traditional dishes to celebrate the occasion.
Uttarakhandi Holi
This colourful festival is made more vibrant with distinct folk songs and music, marking the state's rich culture and a specific style of doing things differently.
Harela and Bhitauli Festival
Celebrated four times a year in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, this festival involves prayers offered for the prosperity of crops. It is an important folk festival in the region and is marked with traditional rituals and customs.
Ganga Dussehra Festival
This religious festival commemorates the descent of the River Ganga on Earth. The devotees have an opportunity to take a dip in the water of this holy river in Haridwar and Rishikesh, making it a significant religious event in the state.
International Yoga Festival Rishikesh
This modern-day festival celebrates the ancient practice of yoga in Rishikesh, which is known as the yoga capital of the world. It is a great way to learn about yoga and its benefits and also a perfect opportunity to experience the rich culture of Uttarakhand.
Ghee Sankranti Festival
This festival marks the harvest season in Uttarakhand and is a way to demonstrate gratitude for agricultural prosperity. It is also a festival of savouring delectable ghee-prepared dishes, adding to the unique culinary experience of the state.
Hill Jatra Festival
This traditional festival is observed especially in the Pithoragarh district and involves celebrations in three phases with goat sacrifice, drama, and folk song performances, providing visitors with a glimpse of the unique cultural traditions of the state.
Kangdali Festival
Celebrated by the Rung tribe of the Pithoragarh district, this festival commemorates the defeat of Zorawar Singh’s army. The festival celebration includes singing folk songs and uprooting the Kangdali plant, adding to the unique cultural experience of the state.
Kanwar Yatra
With the onset of Shravan, the ardent devotees of Lord Shiva carry pots barefoot all the way to the celestial Hindu pilgrimage sites
