36 Famous Festivals in India: National and Religious Festivals of India 2026

India is a land of festivals, where people from different religions coexist harmoniously. The wide variety of famous festivals in India is a true manifestation of its rich culture and traditions. There are many Indian festivals and celebrations, the most exciting of which are mentioned below.

While the celebrations happen all year round, October to January is the time when the country appears at its vibrant best. India is a country where every religion and community celebrates its culture. There are festivals of India state-wise, religion-based, and community-wise—making every day a celebration. You also enjoy several Gazetted holidays, giving you the perfect opportunity to plan trips around the major festivals of India. To give you a fair idea about all the popular festivals in India in 2026 and their expected dates, here is a detailed guide along with their importance.

Table Of Content

36 Hindu Festivals in India With Dates 2026 (Updated List)

Below is a list of religious and national festivals of India celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. Planning your holidays around these festivals allows you to experience India’s cultural diversity at its best.

Month	Festival	Date	Day
January	Makar Sankranti	14 January 2026	Wednesday
January	Vasant Panchami	23 January 2026	Friday
January	Republic Day	26 January 2026	Monday
February	Maha Shivaratri	15 February 2026	Sunday
February	Losar	18 February 2026	Wednesday
March	Holi	4 March 2026	Wednesday
March	Eid-ul-Fitr*	21 March 2026	Saturday
March	Ugadi	22 March 2026	Sunday
March	Gudi Padwa	22 March 2026	Sunday
March	Chaitra Navratri (Start)	22 March 2026	Sunday
March	Ram Navami	30 March 2026	Monday
April	Mahavir Jayanti	2 April 2026	Thursday
April	Good Friday	3 April 2026	Friday
April	Easter	5 April 2026	Sunday
April	Baisakhi	14 April 2026	Tuesday
April	Rongali Bihu	14 April 2026	Tuesday
May	Buddha Purnima	1 May 2026	Friday
May	Thrissur Pooram*	5 May 2026	Tuesday
June	Rath Yatra	26 June 2026	Friday
July	Hemis Festival*	4 July 2026	Saturday
July	Dree Festival	5 July 2026	Sunday
August	Independence Day	15 August 2026	Saturday
August	Raksha Bandhan	30 August 2026	Sunday
September	Janmashtami	5 September 2026	Saturday
September	Onam (Thiruvonam)	6 September 2026	Sunday
September	Ganesh Chaturthi	14 September 2026	Monday
October	Sharad Navratri (Start)	18 October 2026	Sunday
October	Durga Puja (Ashtami)	26 October 2026	Monday
October	Dussehra (Vijayadashami)	27 October 2026	Tuesday
November	Diwali	9 November 2026	Monday
November	Govardhan Puja	10 November 2026	Tuesday
November	Chhath Puja	10 November 2026	Tuesday
November	Gurpurab (Guru Nanak Jayanti)	24 November 2026	Tuesday
December	Hornbill Festival (Start)	1 December 2026	Tuesday
December	December	25 December 2026	Friday

List of 36 Popular Festivals Of India in 2026

The greatness of India’s culture is best reflected in its festivals. These popular festivals in India showcase devotion, colour, rituals, and centuries-old traditions.

1. Diwali

Diwali, one of the most prominent Hindu festivals in India, is celebrated with a lot of pomp and show. During this festival of lights, houses are decorated with clay lamps, candles, and Ashok leaves. People wear new clothes, participate in family puja, burst crackers, and share sweets with friends, families, and neighbours. It is the most popular festival in India.

• Significance: The festival marks the return of Lord Rama, along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, after a long exile of 14 years.
  
• Key attractions: Homes decorated with fancy lights, candles and clay lamps, bustling shops and markets, and fireworks and crackers
  
• When: The darkest new moon night of the Kartik month of the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which corresponds to mid-October – mid-November as per the Gregorian Calendar
  
• Where: All over the country
  
• Diwali 2025:  18 Oct, 2025 to 23 Oct, 2025(Saturday to Thursday)
  
• Things To Do: Light diyas, decorate your home, share sweets and gifts with family and loved ones

---

Looking To Book A Holiday Package?

---

2. Holi

Also known as the festival of colours, Holi is among the most popular festivals in India, celebrated with a lot of fervour across the country. On the eve of Holi, people make huge Holika bonfires and sing and dance around them. On the day of Holi, the famous festival of Indian states, people gather in open areas and apply dry and wet colours of multiple hues to each other, with some carrying water guns and colored water-filled balloons. It tops the charts of 10 famous festivals in India, as it is celebrated all across the world with happiness.

• Significance: It signifies the victory of good (Prince Prahlad) over evil (Holika) and the arrival of spring.
  
• Key attractions: Holika bonfire, playing with colours, and bhang thandai
  
• When: Full moon (Purnima) of the Phalgun month of the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which corresponds to the month of March of the Gregorian calendar
  
• Where: Almost all over the country; most vibrant celebrations can be seen in the northern Indian states
  
• When: Tuesday 3 March 2026
• Where: All over India
• Things To Do: Play with colours, enjoy Gujiya, attend Holika bonfires and sing and dance around it.

3. Dussehra 

Dussehra, also referred to as Vijayadashami, is also among the most popular festivals in India in the Hindu religion. It is celebrated in different forms throughout the country. Ramlila (enactment of scenes from Ramayana) is held everywhere for 10 days. It culminates with “Ravan Dahan” – the burning of huge effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran, which is a real spectacle to see. 

While in Mysore, a colourful procession is taken out, in Kullu, it is celebrated for 10 days, welcoming their mountain deities into the valley. The Mysore Palace is lit like a bride, and the atmosphere is filled with the music of drums.

• Significance: It celebrates the death of the demon king Ravana at the hands of Lord Rama.
  
• Key attractions: Hustle and bustle of the decorated markets, Ram-Leela acts, and the big event of the burning of effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran
  
• When: 10th day of the month of Ashwin according to the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which corresponds to September or October of the Gregorian calendar
  
• Where: Pan India
  
• Dussehra 2026: 20 Oct, Tuesday
  
• Things To Do: Visit Dussehra celebrations, attend Ravan Dahan, visit prominent temples to glance at the celebrations

4. Navratri (2026)

Navratri is one of the most celebrated major festivals of India, marked by nine days of devotion, fasting, rituals, and joyous cultural performances. While Navratri occurs twice a year (Chaitra Navratri in spring and Sharada Navratri in autumn), the autumn Navratri attracts exceptionally vibrant celebrations across India.

• Significance: It represents the worship of Goddess Amba (Durga) in her nine powerful forms, symbolising strength, purity, wisdom, prosperity, and spiritual renewal.
  
• Key Attractions: In Gujarat and Maharashtra, the spirited Garba and Dandiya Raas dance nights are among the most memorable sights, with beautifully adorned dancers and colourful attire. Devotees also observe fasting and visit temples throughout these nine auspicious days.
  
• When: Sharad Navratri in 2026 is expected to begin on 11 October and continue through 19 October — a highlight of the seasonal festival calendar.
  
• Where: Celebrated all over the country; most vibrant in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Delhi, and other metros.
  
• Things To Do: Fast on Navratri days, attend nightly Garba or temple prayers, celebrate Kanya Pujan, and enjoy festive foods after sunset.

5. Durga Puja (2026)

Durga Puja stands among the most popular festivals in India, especially celebrated with grandeur by Bengalis and communities across the country. Over these days, enormous artistic idols of Goddess Durga are installed in elaborately decorated pandals, and people gather for worship, cultural programs, and feasting.

• Significance: It honours Goddess Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, symbolising the triumph of good over evil.
  
• Key Attractions: Stunning pandals, cultural performances, traditional attire, and the festive atmosphere across cities — particularly in Kolkata and other cultural hubs.
  
• When: Durga Ashtami (major puja days) will fall in mid-October 2026, usually overlapping with Navratri and leading up to Dussehra.
  
• Where: Most celebrated in West Bengal; also widely observed in Delhi, Mumbai, and across India.
  
• Things To Do: Pandal hopping, blessing rituals, traditional meals with friends and family, and witnessing the grand idol immersions.

6. Krishna Janmashtami (2026)

Janmashtami is again a beautiful one among the most important religious festivals of India and is counted among the famous festivals in India. Janmashtami celebrations in Mathura and Vrindavan are very popular, making it one of the major festivals of India that draws devotees from across the country. People fast throughout the day and break it with a special meal after dusk, which makes it one of the highlights in the list of festivals of India. Visiting temples, praying, dancing, and singing bhajans (hymns) at midnight is a part of the celebrations of the birth of Lord Krishna. Often, small children dress up like Lord Krishna on this day. Images and picturization of Krishna’s life story are depicted in the “jhankis” in temples.

• Significance: It marks the divine birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Vishnu.
  
• Key Attractions: Midnight puja celebrations, devotional songs (bhajans), and dramatic “jhankis” depicting episodes of Krishna’s life — especially popular in Mathura and Vrindavan.
  
• When: 4 September 2026 (Friday) as per the Hindu calendar, celebrated with fasting and late-night prayers.
  
• Where: Celebrated everywhere; most vibrant in Uttar Pradesh (Mathura & Vrindavan) and major temples nationwide.
  
• Things To Do: Fast until midnight, attend Krishna bhajan nights, visit temples, and enjoy festive sweets like makhan and ladoos.

7. Ganesh Chaturthi (2026)

Ganesh Chaturthi, another one important Hindu religious festival of India, is a 10‑day affair of colourful festivities and is counted among the famous festivals in India. Huge handcrafted Ganesh idols are installed in homes or outdoors, in public pandals, creating a vibrant atmosphere that makes it one of the major festivals of India. Pujas are performed in the morning and the evening, filling the air with devotion. The last day is marked by Visarjan – immersion of the idol in a water body – symbolising the cycle of creation and dissolution. Alongside religious rituals, cultural activities of singing, dancing, and theatre take place, while free medical and blood donation camps highlight the spirit of community service.

• Significance: It celebrates the birthday of Lord Ganesha, beloved across all age groups and communities.
  
• Key Attractions: Artistic Ganesh idols installed in homes and public pandals, vibrant community gatherings, and the final day’s grand Visarjan (immersion) procession.
  
• When: September 25 (Friday) 2026  — Ganesh Chaturthi and associated festivities span several days around this date.
  
• Where: Especially grand in Maharashtra (Mumbai, Pune), also widely celebrated across India.
  
• Things To Do: Join cultural programs, visit Ganesh pandals, enjoy modak (Lord Ganesha’s favourite sweet), and take part in visarjan processions.

8. Gurpurab 

One of the most important Sikh festivals of India, Gurpurab, is counted among the famous festivals in India and holds deep spiritual significance. Special assemblies on the lives and teachings of the Gurus are organised in the gurudwaras, and langars (community meals) bring people together in a spirit of service. Karah Prasad is distributed among all, and hymn‑chanting processions fill the streets with devotion. People light up their homes with lamps and candles and burst crackers to celebrate, making it one of the major festivals of India that radiates joy and unity across communities.

• Significance: It is the celebration of the anniversary of the ten Sikh Gurus
  
• Key attractions: The soulful Bhajan-Kirtan (hymns), Gurbani in the Gurdwaras, the Langar and the Karah Prasad
  
• When: The full moon day in the month of Kartik of the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which corresponds
  to November of the Gregorian calendar
  
• Where: Celebrated by the Sikh community all over the world, especially in Punjab
  
• Gurupurab 2026: Tue, 24 Nov, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Visit Gurudwara, indulge in sewa and langar, help the needy, do charity

---

Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

---

9. Raksha Bandhan

One of the famous festivals in India in the list of festivals, Rakhi, is celebrated among Hindus with great devotion and joy. Signifying the sacred brother‑sister bond, during Rakhi, the sister performs Aarti (prayer), applies a tilak, and ties rakhi (a sacred thread) on the brother’s wrist, wishing for his well‑being. The brother, in return, vows to protect the sister, making it one of the major festivals of India that beautifully highlights family love and togetherness. Another festival which has a strong similarity to Rakhi is Bhai Dooj, which comes just after Diwali and carries the same spirit of sibling affection.

• Significance: It symbolises the strong bonding of a brother and sister.
  
• Key attractions: The ritual of Rakhi and the brightly decked up markets showcasing a colourful variety of rakhis and sweets
  
• When: The full moon day of Shravana month of the Hindu lunisolar calendar, which corresponds to August of the Gregorian calendar
  
• Where: Particularly in North, Central and West India
  
• Raksha Bandhan 2026: Fri, 28 Aug, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Celebrate the day with your siblings

10. Eid-Ul-Fitr 

Eid is one of India’s major festivals celebrated with immense joy and devotion by the Muslim community. People dress up in finery, attend a special community prayer in the morning, visit friends and relatives, and exchange sweets, making it one of the famous festivals in India that unites families and communities in celebration. Elders lovingly give children idi (money or gifts), adding to the festive cheer and spirit of togetherness.

• Significance: It celebrates the conclusion of the holy month of fasting called Ramadan.
  
• Key attractions: The beautifully decked up markets and mosques, the morning Eid namaz at the mosques, and the sweet dishes.
  
• When: On the 1st day of the month of Shawwal of the lunar Hijri calendar, which corresponds to July of the Gregorian calendar
  
• Where: Celebrated by Muslims all over the country
  
• Eid Ul Fitr 2026: Friday, March 20, or Saturday, March 21
  
• Things To Do: Attend a special community prayer in the morning, visit friends and relatives and exchange sweets

11. Bihu 

Popular among the festivals of India celebrated in the North East, Bihu is the harvest festival of Assam and is counted among the famous festivals in India. During the month‑long celebrations, young men and women wear their traditional clothes and perform the Bihu dance in the village fields and courtyards, making it one of the major festivals of India that showcases Assamese culture at its best. During Bihu celebrations in India, a community feast is held with a lot of fanfare, bringing families and neighbours together in joy and unity.

• Significance: It’s the traditional New Year celebration of the Assamese.
  
• Key attractions: The Bihu dance and the local cuisine – coconut ladoo, til pitha, ghila pitha, and fish pitika
  
• Where: Celebrated by the Assamese diaspora around the world, especially in Assam
  
• Bihu 2026: Tue, 14 Apr, 2026 – Mon, 20 Apr, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Wear traditional clothes and attend ceremonies, indulge in local rituals

12. Hemis 

Hemis, the two‑day religious festival from Ladakh, is one of the most important festivals of India and is counted among the famous festivals in India. It attracts a large number of locals as well as foreign tourists each year, making it one of the major festivals of India that beautifully showcases Ladakhi culture and spirituality. The festivities include the Cham dance performed by priests to the rhythm of cymbals, drums, and trumpets played by monks. It’s among the most unique celebrations where the dancing priests dress up in elaborate brocade outfits and masks, creating a mesmerising spectacle of devotion and tradition.

• Significance: It’s the celebration of the birth anniversary of spiritual leader Padmasambhava, founder of Tibetan Tantric Buddhism.
  
• Key attractions: The scenic Hemis monastery and the Cham dance
  
• Where: Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir
  
• Hemis 2026: June 24-25, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Attend the ceremonies and processions by the priests

13. Onam 

Onam is among the important national festivals of India and is celebrated with grandeur in Kerala, making it one of the most famous festivals in India. People wear traditional attire, adorn houses with Pookalam (floral designs), and prepare Onasadya, an elaborate meal of about 13 dishes. The celebrations are vibrant, with Vallamkali (snake boat race), Kaikottikali (clap dance), Kathakali dance, and the Pulikali procession, where artists dress and paint themselves like tigers and hunters. These cultural highlights make Onam one of the major festivals of India, cherished for its blend of tradition, community spirit, and festive joy.

• Significance: It celebrates the homecoming of the legendary king Mahabali.
  
• Key attractions: The spectacular Snake Boat Race, the enigmatic Kaikottikali dance, and the Elephant procession
  
• When: In the month of Chingam of the Malayalam calendar, which corresponds to August or September of the Gregorian calendar
  
• Where: Celebrated by people of all communities in the state of Kerala.
  
• Onam 2026: Sun, 16 Aug, 2026 – Tue, 25 Aug, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Attend boat races and other ceremonies

14. Pongal 

The four‑day‑long harvest festival of South India is one of the most famous festivals in India, celebrated with immense joy and devotion. People prepare traditional Pongal dishes and wear their cultural attire, making it one of the major festivals of India that beautifully reflects gratitude to nature. During this festival, celebrations include bonfires, dancing, cattle races, sweets, and savouries, creating a vibrant atmosphere across villages and towns. The houses look resplendent with Kolam designs (traditional floral patterns made with rice, colored powders, and flower petals), adding charm and colour to the festivities.

• Significance: It’s a festival of thanksgiving to nature, representing the first harvest of the year.
  
• Key attractions: The variety of Kolam designs and cattle races
  
• Where: Celebrated by Tamils all over India, primarily in Tamil Nadu
  
• Pongal 2026: Wed, 14 Jan, 2026 – Sat, 17 Jan, 2026
  
• Things To Do:  Bonfires, dancing, cattle races, sweets, and savouries

15. Christmas 

One of the most famous festivals in India and the world, Christmas happens to be of sheer significance for elders and children alike. Everyone, regardless of their religion, waits for this day, with children especially excited for the surprise gifts from Santa. All the churches are beautifully lit up and decorated to celebrate the birth of Lord Jesus, making it one of the major festivals of India that spreads joy, faith, and festive cheer across communities.

• Significance: Birthday of Lord Jesus
  
• Key attractions: Christmas tree decoration, prayers, the birth of Lord Jesus and Santa Claus
  
• Where: The festival is celebrated across India. The best places to celebrate Christmas in India are Goa, Pondicherry and Kerala.
  
• Christmas 2026: Fri, 25 Dec, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Visit the church and attend prayers, attend carnivals and celebrations

16. Easter 

Just like other festivals in India and the world, Easter is also celebrated with much fervour and great religious solemnization in different parts of the country. Celebrated during Spring, Easter is one of the famous festivals in India for the Christian community, marked by joy and devotion. Easter celebrations in India are distinguished by colourful decorations, dance and plays, simnel and plum cakes, and bright lanterns adorning the streets, making it one of the major festivals of India that beautifully blends faith with festive cheer.

• Significance: Resurrection of Lord Jesus
  
• Key attractions: Folk songs and dance, Easter eggs, cakes, chocolates, street decorations
  
• Where: The festival is celebrated across India. The best places to celebrate Easter in India are Goa, Pondicherry, and Kerala
  
• Easter 2026: Sun, 5 Apr, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Attend prayers

17. Baisakhi 

Baisakhi, one of the famous festivals in India, is celebrated with immense joy by the Sikh community of Punjab and those around the world. It marks the welcoming of the harvest season for the rabi crops and is considered one of the major festivals of India for its cultural and religious importance. The Sikhs celebrate this day with great excitement and enthusiasm by performing local folk dances such as Giddha and Bhangra, filling villages and towns with vibrant energy. The festival also holds deep spiritual significance as it commemorates the day when the tenth Guru of Sikhs, Guru Gobind Singh, laid the foundation stone for the Panth Khalsa—the Order in 1699.

• Significance: Welcoming the harvest season
  
• Key attractions: Folk dances like Bhangra and Giddha, Punjabi feasts, decorations in houses and Gurudwaras
  
• Where: The festival is celebrated across Sikh communities in India. The best place to celebrate Baisakhi in India is Punjab
  
• Baisakhi 2026: Tuesday, April 14, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Visit gurudwaras, enjoy scrumptious food served at celebrations, be a part of local celebrations

18. Makar Sankranti 

Makar Sankranti is considered the real new year for North Indians and Sikhs, celebrated just one day after Lohri. On this day, worship to God is performed to seek blessings for the year ahead. It marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring, symbolising the start of the agricultural cycle for farmers. Unlike many Hindu festivals that follow lunar cycles, Makar Sankranti is set according to solar cycles, making it unique among the famous festivals in India. People celebrate by flying kites, enjoying savoury ‘Bajre ki khichdi’ and sweet ’til ladoo’, while Gujaratis celebrate it as Uttarayan. Its vibrant traditions and community spirit make it one of the major festivals of India, cherished across regions for its joy and cultural significance.

• Significance: Beginning of the agricultural cycle
  
• Key attractions: Kite flying
  
• Where: The festival is celebrated across the North Indian and Sikh communities in India. The best place to celebrate Makar Sankranti in India is North region
  
• Makar Sankranti 2026:  Wed, 14 Jan, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Attend celebrations, visit temples and holy places

19. Maha Shivratri 

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this Indian festival holds great reverence among devotees and is counted among the famous festivals in India. It carries immense significance in Hindu mythology and is celebrated on the 14th day of the dark fortnight in the month of Phalgun. It is believed that whoever worships Lord Shiva on this day attains salvation and redemption from their sins. Maha Shivratri is also one of the major festivals of India for both unmarried and married women, as it is observed to attain marital bliss and divine blessings.

• Significance: Devotion to Lord Shiva
  
• Key attractions: Fasting and worshipping Lord Shiva
  
• Where: India and Nepal
  
• Maha Shivratri 2026: Sunday, February 15, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Visit temples and witness celebrations and festivity

20. Basant Panchami 

Celebrated in the months of January or February, Basant Panchami is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati and is regarded as one of the most famous festivals in India. It is an important day for scholars and students, who worship the Goddess of Knowledge with devotion and reverence. The festival is widely celebrated in the states of Bihar, West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, Punjab, and Haryana, making it one of the major festivals of India that highlights the cultural richness of the country. People in Rajasthan offer jasmine garlands to the goddess, while langars are organised in Punjab, adding to the spirit of community and celebration.

• Significance: It marks the beginning of spring
  
• Key attractions: On this day, people wear yellow coloured clothes and make yellow dishes like sweet saffron rice and kadhi.
  
• When: It is celebrated on the fifth day of the Magha month of the Hindu calendar.
  
• Where: states of Bihar, West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, Punjab, and Haryana
  
• Basant Panchami 2026: Fri, 23 Jan, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Attend Saraswati Puja and celebrations

21. Mahavir Jayanti 

Mahavir Janma Kalyanak is an important day for the Jain community as it marks the birth of Lord Mahavir, and it is counted among the famous festivals in India. On this day, the statue of Lord Mahavir is given a Mahabhishek, where it is bathed with milk and flowers, symbolising purity and devotion. A grand procession of Lord Mahavira’s idol is also carried out in the streets, making it one of the major festivals of India that beautifully reflects Jain traditions of peace, spirituality, and reverence.

• Significance: It is the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir
  
• Key attractions: Prayers are offered, and fasting is observed. Rath Yatra is also carried out.
  
• When: It is celebrated on the 13th day of the Chaitra month of the Hindu Calendar
  
• Where: It is widely celebrated in the states of Gujarat and Rajasthan
  
• Mahavir Jayanti 2026: Tue, 31 Mar, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Attend grand processions, visit Jain temples

22. Ugadi 

Ugadi is a regional New Year celebration for the people of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. This auspicious harvest festival is observed by making rangolis on the floor, decorating doors with torana, buying and giving gifts, and sharing special food. It is one of the famous festivals in India, cherished for its cultural richness and joyful traditions. Ugadi is also considered one of the major festivals of India, as it marks a fresh beginning and is seen as an auspicious time to start new ventures, bringing families and communities together in celebration.

• Significance: IT is a harvest festival considered auspicious to start new work
  
• Key attractions: Famous Ugadi delicacies like Pulihora, Ugadi Pachadi and Bobbatlu, prepared with raw mango, neem, jaggery and tamarind
  
• When: On the first day of the Hindu lunisolar calendar month of Chaitra
  
• Where: Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka
  
• Ugadi 2026: Thu, 19 Mar, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Attend local celebrations

23. Chhath Puja 

The Chhath Puja is a 4‑day festival dedicated to worshipping the Sun God and is regarded as one of the most famous festivals in India. Devotees pray with deep gratitude, thanking the deity for life, wealth, health, and the well‑being of their families. Many also bathe in the holy Ganges River as part of the rituals. A significant number of devotees observe strict fasting during the puja, following the legend of Rama and Sita, who honoured the Sun God in this way. Its spiritual depth and cultural traditions make Chhath Puja one of the major festivals of India, especially in Bihar and surrounding regions, where the devotion and rituals are carried out with immense faith and reverence.

• Significance: The festival is dedicated to the worship of the sun god
  
• Key attractions: Some devotees fast from food and water as a ritual of the puja
  
• Where: Bihar
  
• Chhath Puja 2026: Sun, 22 Mar, 2026 – Wed, 25 Mar, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Attend festivals, take a bath in holy rivers, and indulge in celebrations

24. Govardhan Puja 

Also known as Annakut Puja, Govardhan Puja is celebrated as the day when Lord Krishna defeated Indra, the god of thunder and rain. It is one of the famous festivals in India, observed with devotion and joy across different regions. In Maharashtra, the same day is celebrated as Bali Pratipada, while in Gujarat, it coincides with Gujarati New Year’s Day, making it one of the major festivals of India that beautifully blends mythology, culture, and regional traditions.

• Significance: Celebrated as the day when Lord Krishna defeated God Indra
  
• Key attractions: On this day, food made of cereals like wheat, rice and leafy vegetables is cooked and offered to Lord Krishna
  
• Where: All across India
  
• Govardhan Puja 2026: Tue, 10 Nov, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Go for Govardhan parikrama, visit temples and attend celebrations

25. Gudi Padwa

Gudi Padwa is a grand harvest festival mainly celebrated in Maharashtra, marking the beginning of an auspicious New Year. It is one of the famous festivals in India, observed with joy and devotion as families welcome prosperity and good fortune. People make rangoli designs at the entrance of their homes, decorate them with flowers, and meet friends and relatives. Women prepare traditional sweets like Shrikhand, Puran Poli, and Sunth Paak, making Gudi Padwa one of the major festivals of India that beautifully blends cultural traditions with festive cheer.

• Significance: On this festival, people pray to Lord Vishnu
  
• Key attractions: Local people make Gudi (bamboo doll) using mango and neem leaves, and hang them at the entrance
  
• Where: Maharashtra
  
• Gudi Padwa 2026 Thu, 19 Mar, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Attend celebrations

26. Republic Day 

Republic Day is one of the most famous festivals in India, where patriotism among citizens is at its peak. It marks the historic day when the Constitution of India came into existence, and the country transitioned from a British Dominion to a republic in 1950, three years after independence. Every year, this day is celebrated with great pride and excitement, making it one of the major festivals of India that unites people across the nation in honouring democracy and freedom.

• Significance: Celebrated as the day when the Constitution of India came into existence.
  
• Key attractions: On this day, a grand parade is held every year, which commences from Rashtrapati Bhavan and continues to Rajpath, India Gate, and then finally, the Red Fort.
  
• When: 26th January (Tuesday)
  
• Where: All across India
  
• Things To Do: Attend the Republic Day parade, indulge in celebrations

27. Camel Festival

Taking place in Pushkar every year, the Camel Fair is one of the most famous festivals in India, drawing thousands of visitors from across the country and the world. When the sandy floors of Pushkar are covered with camels, it becomes a breathtaking sight that reflects Rajasthan’s vibrant culture. This is a festival one must witness to experience ancient and traditional‑style Indian celebrations. Initially, the fair was organised to attract local camel and cattle traders during the holy Kartik Purnima festival, but today it has grown into one of the major festivals of India, combining trade, devotion, and cultural performances into a grand spectacle.

• Significance: Celebrated as the holy day for cattle and camel traders to do business.
  
• Key attractions: On this day, camel and cattle traders gather to do business on the holy Kartik Purnima festival.
  
• Where: Pushkar, Rajasthan
  
• Camel Festival 2026: :9th to 11th January 2026
  
• Things To Do: Visit Pushkar and indulge in the festivity

28. Kumbh Mela 

One of the most religious and spiritually significant gatherings, Kumbh Mela is celebrated in a cycle of 12 years at four holy riverbanks – Prayag, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain. It is regarded as one of the famous festivals in India, drawing millions of pilgrims who dip in the sacred waters to cleanse themselves of sins and seek divine blessings. The celebrations also include grand fairs, religious discourses by gurus and saints, and mass feedings of the poor, making it one of the major festivals of India that symbolises faith, devotion, and unity on an unparalleled scale.

• Significance: Celebrated based on the astrological positions of the Sun, the Moon, and Jupiter.
  
• Key attractions: Millions and millions of pilgrims visit the Kumbh Mela and dip in the holy rivers.
  
• Where: Haridwar, Allahabad, Ujjain, and Nasik (On rotation)
  
• Kumbh Mela 2026: Magh Mela in Prayagraj (Jan 3 – Feb 15, 2026)
  
• Things To Do: Take a bath in the holy river, attend ceremonies and pujas, and attend lectures by spiritual gurus

29. Losar

Losar is a famous Tibetan festival and one of the most famous festivals in India, celebrated with joy and devotion by the Tibetan community and followers of Buddhism residing in the country. Majorly observed in Tibet, Losar marks the Tibetan New Year and is celebrated in a fun and frolic way, filled with prayers, dances, and cultural rituals. It is also one of the major festivals of India, as it beautifully reflects gratitude to God for the harvest while showcasing the rich traditions of Tibetan culture within India.

• Significance: Celebrated as the day when the lunar pattern begins, according to the Tibetan calendar.
  
• Key attractions: The celebrations are spread over three days, and different activities take place each day.
  
• Where: Himachal Pradesh, Leh And Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh
  
• Losar 2026: Wed, 18 Feb, 2026 – Fri, 20 Feb, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Indulge in local celebrations

30. Hornbill Festival 

One of the grand celebrations in Nagaland, the Hornbill Festival is counted among the famous festivals in India. This week‑long extravaganza is celebrated to honour the rich culture and folklore of the Naga tribes. Famed as the ‘Festival of Festivals’, Hornbill showcases ancient tribal traditions, lifestyles, and heritage through vibrant performances, crafts, and cuisine. Its cultural depth and festive spirit make it one of the major festivals of India, drawing visitors from across the country and the world to witness Nagaland’s unique identity.

• Significance: Celebrated as the day to promote intercultural harmony between various tribes.
  
• Key attractions: On this day, various activities take place throughout the week, such as horse-riding, craft space, painting, flower show, herbal medicine sales, chilli eating challenge, performances, sports, games, and much more!
  
• Where: Nagaland
  
• Hornbill Festival 2026: Begins on Jan 18, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Horse-riding, craft space, painting, flower show, herbal medicine sales, chilli eating challenge, performances

31. Mewar Festival 

This vibrant festival takes place in the city of Udaipur, Rajasthan, and is counted among the famous festivals in India. Celebrated to mark the arrival of the spring season, it offers a wonderful opportunity to witness the cultural and traditional aspects of Rajasthan at large. With a vast history dating back to the time of the Sisodia Dynasty, this celebration has continued for centuries, making it one of the major festivals of India that beautifully blends heritage, devotion, and seasonal joy.

• Significance: Celebrated to welcome the season of Spring
  
• Key attractions: the whole festival is quite colourful, and women in Udaipur can be seen actively taking part in the various ceremonies
  
• Where: Udaipur
  
• Mewar Festival 2026: late March (around 21-23 March)
  
• Things To Do: Attend celebrations

32. Buddha Jayanti

This is one of the holiest and most spiritual occasions, also known as Buddha Purnima, celebrated as the birthday of Gautama Buddha, who introduced the philosophy of Buddhism to the world. It is regarded as one of the famous festivals in India, observed with deep reverence by followers across the nation. On this day, people attend Buddhist teachings, meditate, and wear white clothes to honour the tradition. Its sacred rituals and peaceful celebrations make it one of the major festivals of India, symbolising compassion, wisdom, and devotion.

• Significance: People celebrate this festival because on this day, Gautama Buddha was born
  
• Key attractions: on this day, people impart the teachings of Buddhism, and everyone wears white clothes
  
• Where: Darjeeling, Bodh Gaya, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Kurseong, Darjeeling, and Maharashtra
  
• Buddha Jayanti 2026: Fri, 1 May, 2026
  
• Things To Do: Visit Buddhist temples and monasteries, attend lectures and prayers

33. Thrissur Pooram

Considered among the most famous festivals in India, Thrissur Pooram is a spectacular celebration in Kerala that draws people from across the country. Known for its grandeur, the festivities continue for nearly 36 hours, filling the city with unmatched energy and devotion. Fireworks and vibrant parasol displays form a crucial part of the event, making it one of the major festivals of India that beautifully showcases Kerala’s cultural richness and traditional heritage.

• Significance: The festival is celebrated to commemorate the establishment of 10 temples around Vadakkunnathan Temple
  
• Key attractions: attend this festival to observe Parasol displays and fireworks
  
• Where: Thrissur
  
• Thrissur Pooram 2026: Sunday, April 26, 2026,
  
• Things To Do: Attend the processions

34. Ratha Yatra 

This grand festival of chariots, known as Rath Yatra, is dedicated to Lord Jagannath and is regarded as one of the most famous festivals in India. Every year, thousands of devotees assemble at the renowned Puri Jagannath Temple in Odisha to witness the sacred procession. The idols of Goddess Subhadra, Lord Jagannath, and Lord Balabhadra are placed on beautifully decorated chariots and taken out in a majestic parade. Its spiritual significance and massive scale make Rath Yatra one of the major festivals of India, symbolising devotion, unity, and divine blessings.                                                                                                       

• Significance: It is celebrated to pay reverence to Lord Jagannath
  
• Key attractions: chariots with the idols of Lord Jagannath, Goddess Subhadra, and Lord Balabhadra are taken out on a chariot
  
• Where: Puri
  
• Rath Yatra 2026: Thu, 16 Jul, 2026 India
  
• Things To Do: Attend Rath Yatra

35. Dree Festival 

Celebrated in the picturesque Ziro Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, this is the biggest harvest festival of the region and is counted among the famous festivals in India. The celebration brings people together to pray for a successful harvest and to honour nature’s abundance. A unique tradition of serving cucumber symbolises the richness of the yield and the prosperity of the community. Its cultural vibrancy and agricultural significance make it one of the major festivals of India, showcasing the deep bond between people and the land they cultivate.

• Significance: This is considered to be one of the major harvest festivals in India
  
• Key attractions: people assemble and pray unanimously for a smooth harvest
  
• When: July
  
• Where: Ziro Valley
  
• Dree Festival 2026: 5th July 2026
  
• Things To Do: Attend ceremonies

36. Independence Day  

One of the most crucial and celebrated national occasions, Independence Day is regarded as one of the most famous festivals in India that embodies the spirit of freedom and unity. The day commemorates India’s independence with the iconic flag‑hoisting ceremony carried out by the Prime Minister at the historic Red Fort. This solemn event is followed by 21 gunshots fired as a mark of salutation, making Independence Day one of the major festivals of India that fills every citizen with pride and patriotism.

• Significance: Celebrated to commemorate the freedom attained on 15th August 1947
  
• Key attractions: the salutation given through 21 gunshots and the Prime Minister of India hoisting the flag
  
• Where: Delhi
  
• Independence Day: 15th August, Saturday
  
• Things To Do: Celebrate your freedom with friends and loved ones, fly kites, attend ceremonies, and feel patriotic

The myriad of important festivals of India boasts of the nation’s rich and varied culture and the religious sentiments of the people. Hope this list of famous festivals of India sparked an urge to travel to different places and be a part of celebrations. If you want to know a little more about the Indian festive spirit, these commonly-asked questions will be helpful. And don’t hesitate to plan a trip to India !

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here

Image Sources: Wikimedia Commons, Facebook, Pexels and Pixabay.

FAQs About Famous Festivals Of India

Which is the most celebrated festival in India?

The diverse cultural communities in India celebrate countless events, but Diwali is considered the most celebrated among the famous festivals in India. Holi, Dussehra, Eid‑Ul‑Fitr, Christmas, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Durga Puja are also major festivals of India that bring people together from different walks of life.

Which are the festivals for which India is famous worldwide?

India is globally renowned for its famous festivals such as Diwali, Holi, Ganesh Chaturthi, Durga Puja, Navratri, Dussehra, Eid al‑Fitr, Onam, Pongal, and the Pushkar Camel Fair. These are celebrated internationally, making them major festivals of India with worldwide recognition.

Which famous festivals of India are celebrated by all communities?

Diwali, Holi, Christmas, and the Pushkar Camel Fair are major festivals of India that transcend religious boundaries. They are counted among the famous festivals in India because people from all communities participate in their celebrations.

What are the famous festivals of South India?

Onam and Pongal are the main harvest festivals of South India, celebrated with prayers, family feasts, and cultural joy. Kerala’s Nehru Trophy Boat Race and Karnataka’s Hampi Festival are also famous festivals in India that showcase regional culture, history, music, dance, and art.

What are the different festivals related to farming celebrated in India?

Onam, Makar Sankranti, Baisakhi, Lohri, Wangala, Nuakhai, and Ugadi are celebrated as harvest festivals in India. These major festivals of India include prayers to God, family gatherings, new clothes, music, dance, and feasts, reflecting gratitude for nature’s bounty.

Which festival is celebrated in the spring season?

Holi is the most celebrated spring festival in India, also known as the Festival of Colours and Festival of Love. It is one of the famous festivals in India, enjoyed with organic colors, water play, and delicacies like Gujiya and Dahi Bhalle across different states.

How many festivals are celebrated in India?

Every state celebrates 20–30 grand events annually, making India the land of famous festivals. Ganesh Chaturthi, Independence Day, Holi, Diwali, Navratri, Gudi Padwa, Eid, and Republic Day are counted among the major festivals of India celebrated nationwide.

What are the national festivals of India?

Republic Day, Independence Day, and Gandhi Jayanti are the three national festivals of India, deeply tied to the freedom struggle. These major festivals of India are celebrated with patriotic pride, large‑scale events, and unity across the nation.

People Also Read:

Sikkim Festivals Jamaican Festivals Jacksonville Festivals