12 Lesser-Known Festivals in India Worth Planning a Trip Around
The best lesser-known festivals in India are local celebrations of music, harvest and community. Here are twelve worth planning around, with dates that…
21 September 2026 · 2 min read · Best in Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
The best lesser-known festivals in India are local celebrations of music, harvest and community. Here are twelve worth planning around, with dates that change each year.
1. Tansen Samaroh, Gwalior
A classical music festival at the musician's tomb, usually in December.
2. Bhagoria, Madhya Pradesh
A tribal fair held around Holi.
3. Hornbill Festival, Nagaland
A showcase of Naga cultures in early December.
4. Konark Dance Festival, Odisha
Classical dance against the backdrop of the Sun Temple, usually in winter.
5. Khajuraho Dance Festival
A week of classical dance at the temples, usually in February.
6. Desert Festival, Jaisalmer
Folk music and turban competitions, usually in February.
7. Ziro Festival of Music, Arunachal
An outdoor music festival, usually in September.
8. Rann Utsav, Kutch
A cultural festival on the white desert in winter.
9. Nanda Devi Mela, Nainital
A hill fair held in September.
10. Losar, Ladakh and Spiti
The Tibetan New Year, usually in winter.
11. Chapchar Kut, Mizoram
A spring festival, usually in March.
12. Sindhu Darshan, Ladakh
A gathering on the Indus, usually in June.
Best time to visit
Dates follow local calendars, so check with tourism offices each year.
Book stays early because many festival towns have few rooms.
Timings, permits, ticket rules and dates change from year to year, so confirm the current details before you travel.
