Experience Udaipur's vibrant festivals with this guide
Udaipur, known as the City of Lakes, is not just famous for its breathtaking landscapes and historic palaces but also for its vibrant cultural festivals. These events are a window into the rich traditions and lively spirit of Rajasthan. Visitors from around the globe flock to Udaipur to witness these colorful celebrations that offer a unique blend of cultural heritage and festive joy.
Mewar Festival: Spring in Udaipur
The Mewar Festival, marking spring's arrival, is celebrated with a riot of colors, traditional music, and dance. A procession winds through Udaipur to Gangaur Ghat at Lake Pichola. Women in bright attire carry idols of Isar and Gangaur, symbolizing Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, respectively. This event highlights Rajasthan's cultural richness and the community's joyful spirit in welcoming the season.
Shilpgram Arts Fair: Cultural tapestry
Situated three kilometers west of Udaipur, Shilpgram hosts an annual arts fair that lasts for 10 days. This event aims to promote the arts, crafts, textiles, and traditional skills of rural India. It's an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience firsthand the richness of Indian craftsmanship. The fair also includes folk dances and music performances, making it a vibrant showcase of Indian culture.
Diwali: Festival of lights
Diwali in Udaipur is enchanting, as the city lights up with lamps, candles, and fireworks. Families decorate their homes with colorful rangoli, lanterns, and oil lamps known as diyas. This celebration marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. A visit to Udaipur during Diwali is truly magical, with splendid decorations around Lake Pichola enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Hariyali Amavasya: Monsoon celebrations
Hariyali Amavasya marks the arrival of the monsoon in Udaipur, when locals celebrate nature's bounty after a scorching summer. This festival sees large fairs organized near Fateh Sagar Lake, where people enjoy traditional foods, rides, games, and live performances by folk artists. It's an occasion that brings together families for fun-filled activities amidst lush greenery rejuvenated by recent rains.
Jagannath Rath Yatra: A divine journey
The Jagannath Rath Yatra in Udaipur, held annually in July or August, mirrors Odisha's famous festival. Idols from Jagdish Temple are placed on grand chariots and pulled through streets by devotees. This creates an atmosphere of piety and fervor against Udaipur's royal lakeside vistas. It offers a unique charm, inviting visitors to partake in a celebration rich with traditional Rajasthani culture.
