Throughout the world, if is there any country known for its rich cultures and traditions, it is India. It, there is no doubt throughout India different regions follow different religious festivals and fairs. Every festival will hold its importance and uniqueness. Apart from the cultural side, Indian festivals hold great significance to scientific importance. Behind every custom or tradition, there will be scientific importance. That’s why Indians will have that many festivals every month.
To follow all these traditions and religious practices, elders made festivals to be celebrated. Likewise, at least one festival will appear on the Indian calendar every month. Now we are going to know what are the popular festivals to celebrate in October. Let’s have a look at what they are.
List of 20 famous Indian festivals happening in October 2024:
1. Navaratri:
In October, Navaratri is a very famous festival celebrated for 9 days. Goddess Durga is worshipped during this festival. Each day different incarnations of Goddess Durga will be worshipped. For women, Navaratri is a very auspicious and sacred festival. They will prepare different food specials for the Goddess Durga and after fasting, they will have breakfast with this food.
For the complete nine days, every day is a feast of celebrations and joy. People will enjoy the nine days full of joy and celebrations. The nine days of temples and roads with lights, pandals, and celebrations look beautiful and colorful. Read also: Best International Family Trips in October
Date: Thu, 3 Oct, 2024 – Sat, 12 Oct, 2024
Location: Pan-India, with grand celebrations in Gujarat, West Bengal, and Karnataka.
Highlights: Navaratri, meaning “nine nights”, is a vibrant festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga. Each region celebrates it uniquely:
- Gujarat: Famous for Garba and Dandiya Raas, where communities come together to dance in colorful attire.
- West Bengal: Known as Durga Puja, the state transforms with elaborate pandals, showcasing artistic depictions of the goddess.
- Karnataka: In Mysore, the festival is synonymous with the grand Mysore Dussehra, featuring royal processions and cultural performances.
Travel Tips: Participate in local dances in Gujarat, explore pandals in Kolkata, or witness the royal parade in Mysore. It’s wise to book accommodations and transport well in advance due to the festival’s popularity.
Read Also:
- Durga Puja in Kolkata – Why You Should Never Miss
- Most Famous Festivals of West Bengal
- Kutch Rann Utsav Festival Gujarat
2. Dussehra:
On the 10th day of Navaratri, Dussehra is celebrated. It is the most celebrated festival in India. This festival is a symbol of the victory of good over evil. Different mythological stories will convey the message of the festival. On this day, Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnath like evils were killed. Because this day is celebrated as the victory of good over evil. In different regions, the celebrations of Dussehra will be very interesting and grandeur.
Mysore Dussehra and Kullu Dussehra are some of the best-known Dussehra celebrated areas. During Dussehra, the nights full of vivid colors and lights look awesome. At last, the burning of Ravana effigies is the must-thing to see. More information about the Dussehra Celebration in India
Read also:
Date: 12 October 2024.
Location: Nationwide, particularly grand in Mysore, Kullu, and Varanasi.
Highlights: Dussehra marks the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana and the triumph of good over evil. The festivities culminate with the burning of Ravana effigies:
- Mysore: The Mysore Palace is illuminated, and the grand procession with the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari atop a golden howdah is a spectacle.
- Kullu: Known as Kullu Dussehra, it’s a week-long celebration with deities brought from different villages to the Kullu Valley.
- Varanasi: The Ramlila performance in Ramnagar is legendary, with each episode of the Ramayana enacted over several days.
Travel Tips: Each city offers a unique flavor of Dussehra. In Mysore, don’t miss the illuminated palace. In Kullu, enjoy the serene environment with a cultural twist. In Varanasi, immerse yourself in the spiritual reenactment of the Ramayana.
3. Bathukamma:
In South India, in the state of Telangana, this festival is celebrated. During the Navaratri period, this festival is celebrated. For women, this festival is very special and prominent. They will gather all seasonal flowers and make them into a temple-like structure. Then, they will celebrate the festival by rounding the flowers singing folk songs, and dancing. With this festival, we can see the culture of the Telangana people.
This festival is dedicated to the Goddess Maha Gauri, who is also an incarnation of Goddess Durga. People believe that she is a life-giver and Goddess of womanhood. At the time festival, you can see the entire state in a joyful and energetic mood full of celebrations. Read also: October Getaways: Best Places in South India
Date: 1st October to 09 October.
Location: Telangana, primarily in Hyderabad and Warangal.
Highlights: Bathukamma is a floral festival celebrated by women, where they create beautiful flower stacks and immerse them in water on the final day, symbolizing the beauty and spirit of womanhood.
Travel Tips: Experience the local culture by joining in the making of Bathukamma stacks. Visit during the final day for vibrant processions and community gatherings.
Read more:
Also read: 10 Most Popular Temples of Telangana
4. Marwar:
Jodhpur’s well-known festival, Marwar is a spectacular and astonishing festival to visit. This festival is celebrated for 2 days during Sharad Purnima. The main aim of celebrating this festival is to respect and keep alive the culture and traditional dances and music forms of Rajasthan. Different traditional music and dance performances will be performed at the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Mehrangarh Fort.
It is a wonderful festival to visit and to admire the beauty of the Mehrangarh fort during the festival. Different shows like puppet shows, magic shows, horse riding, musical performances, etc will be performed. A true place to acknowledge the prominence of culture and tradition. Find out the list of more most famous festivals in Rajasthan.
Read also: Discover September Road Trips from Hyderabad
Date: 16 Oct to 17 Oct 2024.
Location: Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
Highlights: This festival commemorates the heroes of Rajasthan through folk music, dance, and camel performances. Held against the backdrop of the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, it’s a showcase of Rajasthani culture.
Travel Tips: Plan your visit to coincide with the festival to enjoy the rich folk traditions. Explore the Mehrangarh Fort and the local markets during your stay.
5. Milad un-Nabi:
Milad un-Nabi is a sacred festival for Muslims all over India and throughout the world. The day is celebrated as the birthday of Prophet Muhammed. This festival is also called Barawafat or Mawlid. For the past 11th century Muslims celebrating this festival. On the 12th day of the Rabi-ul-Awwal month of the Islamic calendar, the day is celebrated.
On this day, Prophet Muhammad introduced the Holy Quran. The day, this day is celebrated as Milad un-Nabi. Muslims enjoy the day remembering the deeds of Prophet Muhammed.
Date: 16th September 2024.
Location: Celebrated across India, with significant observances in Delhi, Lucknow, and Hyderabad.
Highlights: Milad un-Nabi marks the birthday of Prophet Muhammad. The day is observed with processions, prayers, and sermons in mosques, celebrating the Prophet’s teachings.
Travel Tips: Respect local customs, especially in conservative areas. Participate in or observe the processions to gain a deeper understanding of Islamic culture and traditions.
Read Also: Top 30 Most Famous Festivals of India
6. Rajgir Dance Festival:
In Bihar, the Rajgir Dance Festival is a famous annual dance and music festival held every year in October. The ancient capital of the Magadha empire, this place is located. Every year from all over India famous artists visit the festival. They perform wonderful plays, which will amaze everyone. To enjoy a memorable music night, the Rajgir Dance Festival is a worthy choice.
Whether musical or dance performances, everything held at this festival outshines. Famous artists like Swapna Sundari, Sonal Man Singh, Hema Malini, Amita Dutta, Mukund Nayak, Leela Samson, etc once performed here.
Date: October 24th to 26 2024.
Location: Rajgir, Bihar.
Highlights: Set in the historical town of Rajgir, this festival features classical dance and music performances, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of India.
Travel Tips: Combine your visit to the festival with a tour of nearby Buddhist pilgrimage sites like Nalanda and Bodh Gaya. Evening performances under the starlit sky are particularly enchanting.
More about Bihar:
- Top 10 Temples to Visit in Bihar for Religious Getaway
- 7 Popular Historical Places in Bihar
- 10 Best Places to Visit in Bodhgaya, Bihar
- Buddha Temple, Bodh Gaya Bihar – Travel Guide
7. Karwa Chauth:
Karwa Chauth is a holy and sacred festival for women, who pray for the wellness of their husbands. On that day from sunrise to moonrise, married women fast for their husband’s wellness and longevity. This festival is celebrated in the Kartik month of the Hindu calendar. The entire day women fast without drinking a small amount of water and they will offer poojas to the Goddess Gauri.
Different mythological stories represent the reason behind the festival. When the moon rises, the woman breaks the fasting by seeing her husband’s face in the moonlight.
Read more: Explore India’s Best in October
Date: 20 Oct, 2024.
Location: Primarily in North India, including Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
Highlights: Married women observe a fast from sunrise to moonrise, praying for the longevity and well-being of their husbands. The day is marked by rituals, community gatherings, and the sighting of the moon.
Travel Tips: If invited, participate in the rituals to experience this cultural tradition. The evening prayer and sighting of the moon are central to the festival.
Also read:
- 20 Best Places to Visit in Uttar Pradesh
- Top 20 Places to See in Himachal Pradesh
- List of Religious Places and Temples in Haryana
- Top 15 Places to Visit in Haryana
8. Tawang Festival:
In Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang is a beautiful hill station with lush greenery, and natural attractions, and also known for its rich traditions and cultures. To promote all these wonderful attractions and things, the Tawang festival is made and celebrated every year. In a few words, it is a wonderful cultural and regional festival to attend in Arunachal Pradesh.
Different types of tribes living here will entertain with their unique cultures and traditions. Here you can experience Buddhist culture, tribal dances, crafts and arts, and local markets for shopping, many will surprise you. A lovely and pleasant festival to visit. Read Also: Top 20 Places to See in Arunachal Pradesh
Date: 9th October to 11th October 2024.
Location: Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh.
Highlights: A cultural extravaganza that showcases the rich traditions of the Monpa tribe, including traditional dances, Buddhist rituals, and a display of local handicrafts.
Travel Tips: The festival is an excellent opportunity to explore Tawang’s scenic beauty and cultural richness. Be prepared for chilly weather and plan your travel well in advance due to limited accessibility.
9. Mannarasala Ayilyam:
It is a unique and interesting festival that takes place in Alleppey. The festival is celebrated to worship the serpent gods in Alleppey, the temple’s name is Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple. A very interesting thing about the festival is its priest who is a woman. At the time of the festival, the serpent gods will be taken out and marched to the priestess’s ancestral home. There will be special prayers done to the gods.
Very few only know about this festival, but it is a wonderful event to visit. The way and its grand celebrations make it very attractive and interesting. Among many Kerala festivals, this one is also a worthy visit. Also read: Top Amazing Reasons to Visit Alleppey Kerala
Date: 26 October 2024.
Location: Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, Kerala.
Highlights: A unique festival dedicated to serpent worship, featuring elaborate rituals and offerings at the Mannarasala Temple. It’s a significant event for devotees of Nagaraja, the serpent god.
Travel Tips: Visit the temple to participate in the special poojas. Combining this visit with a Kerala backwater tour can enhance your experience.
10. Gandhi Jayanti
Gandhi Jayanti marks the birth of Mahatma Gandhi, India’s iconic leader known globally for his non-violent resistance against British rule. Commemorated across the nation, events highlight his unparalleled contribution to India’s freedom.
Prayer services, art exhibitions, and plays re-enact his life. A day of introspection and non-violence, the occasion is a reminder of the power of peace and truth in an increasingly tumultuous world.
Date: October 2nd 2024
Location: Nationwide, with major observances in Delhi and Gujarat.
Highlights: Gandhi Jayanti marks the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The day is observed with prayer meetings, commemorative events, and a focus on Gandhian principles of non-violence and simplicity.
Travel Tips: Key sites to visit include Raj Ghat in Delhi and Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad. It’s a national holiday, so plan accordingly.
Read Also: Everything About Ganesh Chaturthi in India
11. India Art Festival, Mumbai
The India Art Festival in Mumbai is a melting pot of creativity. As a premier contemporary art fair, it unites galleries, artists, and aficionados from all over. Offering a platform for both emerging talents and established names, this festival fosters dialogue and collaboration.
Attendees can delve into a diverse range of artistic expressions, from thought-provoking installations to avant-garde paintings, all while engaging with the minds behind the masterpieces.
Date: Varies; typically held annually.
Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra.
Highlights: A major art fair featuring contemporary artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and installations from artists across India. It’s a vibrant gathering of the art community.
Travel Tips: Ideal for art lovers, this festival is a great place to explore and purchase unique art pieces. Be prepared for Mumbai’s bustling traffic and plan your visit to other cultural sites in the city.
12. Ayilyam Festival, Vettikode
Vettikode’s Ayilyam Festival is an awe-inspiring spectacle dedicated to the revered serpent deities. Rooted deeply in Kerala’s vibrant culture, this festival sees massive processions, traditional dance rituals, and unique offerings made to the serpent gods.
Devotees seek protection and blessings, praying for prosperity. The festival’s ambiance is a sensory overload with the rhythmic beats of traditional instruments, colorful visuals, and the intoxicating aroma of incense and flowers.
Date: 28 September, 2024.
Location: Vettikode Sree Nagaraja Temple, Kerala.
Highlights: Another significant festival dedicated to serpent worship, with rituals and offerings similar to Mannarasala Ayilyam.
Travel Tips: Experience the unique rituals at the temple and explore Kerala’s lush landscapes. Combine the visit with other cultural experiences in the region.
13. Karni Mata Festival
Celebrated in Deshnoke, the Karni Mata Festival is an ode to the deity Karni Mata. The temple, famous for its resident rats believed to be reincarnations of deceased storytellers, draws devotees and curious visitors alike.
People flock to pay their respects, seeking blessings and prosperity. The festival ambiance is a blend of devotion and wonder, marked by rituals, music, dance, and the unique sight of rats roaming freely, revered and protected.
Date: 3rd October to 12th October 2024.
Location: Deshnoke, Rajasthan.
Highlights: Held at the Karni Mata Temple, also known as the Rat Temple, where thousands of rats are revered. The festival includes rituals and a grand fair.
Travel Tips: Visit the temple for a unique cultural experience. Explore nearby Bikaner, known for its forts and palaces, while respecting local customs regarding the temple’s sacred rats.
14. Tithal Beach Festival
The Tithal Beach Festival is a captivating blend of cultural fervor and seaside charm. Held at Tithal Beach in Gujarat, this festival is a celebration of the region’s cultural, artistic, and culinary heritage.
Visitors can witness traditional dance performances, musical extravaganzas, and a plethora of local crafts. The gentle lapping waves provide a serene backdrop to this vibrant celebration, making it a unique experience for both locals and tourists.
Date: Month of June/October 2024.
Location: Tithal Beach, Gujarat.
Highlights: A beach festival with cultural programs, water sports, and local food stalls, offering a mix of relaxation and cultural immersion.
Travel Tips: Perfect for a leisurely beach holiday. Book accommodations early as the festival draws many tourists. Enjoy local delicacies and participate in beachside activities.
15. Kota Dussehra
Dussehra in Kota is not just a religious festival but a grand cultural event. Celebrated at the end of Navaratri, it marks the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana.
While effigies of Ravana burn, the grounds come alive with a vibrant fair, complete with rides, food stalls, and cultural performances. The majestic processions, folk music, and dance make the Kota Dussehra distinct and a must-visit event.
Date: Sat, 12 Oct, 2024.
Location: Kota, Rajasthan.
Highlights: Known for its grand Dussehra fair, Kota’s celebrations include cultural performances, markets, and the burning of massive effigies of Ravana.
Travel Tips: Kota Dussehra is a fantastic blend of tradition and festivity. Explore Kota’s historic sites and shop for local handicrafts at the fair.
16. Kullu Dussehra
Kullu Dussehra is a unique cultural spectacle held in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh. Unlike other regions, the celebrations begin when they end elsewhere.
The festival commemorates Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana but also celebrates the local deity Lord Raghunath. A week-long event, the valley sees vibrant processions, traditional dances, and folk music, encapsulating the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Read More: Celebrating Kullu Dussehra: A Traveler’s Guide to Himachal Pradesh
Date: Sat, 12 Oct, 2024.
Location: Kullu, Himachal Pradesh.
Highlights: A unique week-long Dussehra celebration where deities from neighboring villages are brought to Kullu, culminating in a grand procession and cultural performances.
Travel Tips: Experience the cultural richness of Himachal Pradesh and the serene environment of Kullu Valley. It’s an ideal time to visit Manali and other nearby attractions.
17. Rajasthan International Folk Festival
The Rajasthan International Folk Festival, often referred to as RIFF unfolds in the historic city of Jodhpur. A radiant tapestry of sound and culture, it showcases the rich musical legacy of Rajasthan. Blending the soulful performances of local folk virtuosos with the dynamic rhythms of international artists, RIFF offers a melodious journey that bridges traditions, echoing against the backdrop of Jodhpur’s timeless skyline.
The majestic Mehrangarh Fort provides a historic backdrop, and the festival becomes a melting pot of cultural exchanges, resonating with melodies, rhythms, and tales from around the world.
Date: 16th and 20th of October 2024.
Location: Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
Highlights: A global platform for folk artists, featuring traditional music, dance, and cultural performances set against the backdrop of Mehrangarh Fort.
Travel Tips: Attend the festival to immerse yourself in world-class folk music and dance. Early booking is recommended due to its international popularity. Explore Jodhpur’s vibrant markets and heritage sites.
18. Kabir Yatra
Kabir Yatra is a traveling music festival dedicated to the legendary poet-saint Kabir. Through music, poetry, and discussions, the yatra traverses various locations, imbibing the essence of Kabir’s teachings on universal love and harmony.
Attendees get to engage in soulful Sufi and Bhakti music, fostering a sense of community and spiritual introspection, all while exploring the beautiful landscapes the yatra travels through.
Date: 02 Oct 2024 – 07 Oct 2024.
Location: Various locations in Rajasthan.
Highlights: A traveling festival celebrating the poetry and teachings of the mystic poet Kabir through music and storytelling. The Yatra moves through different villages, spreading Kabir’s message.
Travel Tips: Join the Yatra to experience a unique blend of spirituality and culture. The event provides a deep connection to India’s folk traditions and the teachings of Kabir.
19. Ramnagar Ramlila
Nestled in Ramnagar, the Ramlila stands as an age-old and esteemed portrayal of the revered Ramayana. Spanning across a month, Ramnagar evolves into a dynamic theater, vividly illustrating episodes from this iconic epic.
With the majestic Ganges and the ancient Ramnagar Fort as a backdrop, the performances are a blend of devotion, drama, and tradition. Attendees are transported back in time, reliving the legendary tale.
Date: 3rd October to 12th October 2024.
Location: Ramnagar, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
Highlights: The oldest and most elaborate Ramlila, spanning several weeks, with episodes of the Ramayana enacted in various parts of Ramnagar.
Travel Tips: Stay in Varanasi to witness this epic performance. The Ramlila is deeply spiritual and provides an immersive cultural experience. Combine this with exploring the ghats and temples of Varanasi.
20. Ashwa Poojan
Ashwa Poojan is a unique celebration in the Mewar region of Rajasthan. Held on the ninth day of Navaratri, it honors the loyal steed of the Mewar rulers. The horse, representing valor and strength, is worshipped amidst grand ceremonies.
The Udaipur royal family continues this tradition, where the horse is adorned in finery, and rituals are performed, reflecting the region’s deep-rooted chivalric culture.
Date:.
Location: Rajasthan, particularly in Udaipur and Jaipur.
Highlights: A royal tradition where horses, symbols of valor, are worshipped. The festival is a display of Rajasthan’s martial heritage and is often held in royal courts.
Travel Tips: Witness this unique ritual in the royal settings of Udaipur or Jaipur. Combine it with a tour of Rajasthan’s forts, palaces, and heritage sites to experience the grandeur of the state’s history.
This October 2023, these are the best festivals to look at. Whenever you get time during these festival times, pay a visit. It is a good thing to travel to other places for festivals. It makes the next generations know about our Indian culture and traditions.
10 Best Places to Visit in Rajasthan in October
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Read the following post to learn more about the Indian festival:
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Indian Festivals month by month :
- Festivals in India in January 2025: A Guide to Dates & Locations
- Best 12 Festivals Enjoy in India in February 2025
- Best 10 Festivals to Enjoy in India in March 2025
- 10 Most Popular Festivals in April 2025 in India
- The Popular Festival May in India 2025
- 10 Famous Festivals in June in India 2025!
- 10 Famous Festivals Must Attend in July in India 2025!
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- 10 Famous Indian Festivals in September 2024: Dates, Times, and Places
- 20 Famous Festival Celebrated In India in the Month of October 2024
- 13 Most Famous Festival in November in India 2024
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the major festivals celebrated in India during October?
In October, major festivals include Dussehra, Diwali, Navratri, Durga Puja, and Karva Chauth.
2. What is Dussehra, and how is it celebrated?
Dussehra marks the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. It is celebrated with effigies of Ravana being burned, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
3. What is Navratri, and why is it important?
Navratri is a nine-day festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga. It is important for its religious rituals, fasting, and cultural performances like Garba and Dandiya.
4. How is Durga Puja celebrated in India?
Durga Puja is celebrated with great enthusiasm, especially in West Bengal. It involves elaborate decorations, idol worship, cultural events, and processions.
5. What is the significance of Karva Chauth?
Karva Chauth is a festival where married women fast from sunrise to moonrise for the well-being and longevity of their husbands.
6. When is Diwali celebrated if it falls in October?
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is usually celebrated in late October or early November, depending on the lunar calendar. It involves lighting lamps, bursting fireworks, and family gatherings.
7. What cultural events are associated with Navratri?
During Navratri, cultural events like Garba and Dandiya Raas are popular, especially in Gujarat. People dress in traditional attire and dance to folk music.
8. How is Durga Puja different from Navratri?
While both festivals worship Goddess Durga, Durga Puja is more elaborate in West Bengal with grand idols and pandals, whereas Navratri is widely celebrated across India with fasting and dancing.
9. What are the typical foods prepared during these October festivals?
During October festivals, special foods like sweets (laddus, kheer), savory snacks (samosas, chaat), and festive meals are prepared, often without onions and garlic during fasting.
10. Are these festivals celebrated all over India?
Yes, but the scale and style of celebration can vary. For example, Dussehra and Diwali are celebrated nationwide, while Durga Puja is more prominent in West Bengal, and Navratri is widely celebrated in Gujarat.
