5 Best Festivals For The Winter Travel Diary In India

The last month of the year comes with a magic of its own. While some celebrate Christmas, most are excited about the impending holidays and New Year celebrations. It is the time to take an account of the year gone by, and the time to make resolutions which youwill regret next year at the same time.

It is also the time to enjoy with family and friends. Many parts of India have special fests and festivals this time of the year. From the Rann Utsav in Gujarat to Sunburn in Goa, you can pick your choice for an amazing end of year experience.

# Hornbill Festival, Nagaland

A heritage village near Kohima, Kisama holds this great annual festival. The colourful canvas of the different tribes comes together and participates in a great festival celebrating their rich culture and rituals. A photographer’s paradise, a cultural feast and a foodie’s haven, this fest is a must visit for travellers of all hues.

# Galdan Namchot, Leh

This festival is celebrated to commemorate the sainthood of the founder of Gelukpa school of Buddhism, Tsongkhapa. Galdan Namchat Festival is celebrated with a grand fervour by the people in Ladakh. All the monasteries are lit up to present a magical sight across Ladakh. It marks the beginning of the New Year celebrations in Ladakh.

# Perumthitta Tharavad Kottamkuzhy, Kerala

This is one of the oldest performance ritual in Kerala. A ten-day fest beginning in the first week of December, it is a truly immersive experience. Theyyam dance is not a single dance form rather a collection of about 400 dance forms each representing a mythological, historical character. The festival is a visual treat and keeps alive the age-old tradition of Thayyams.

# Winter Festival, Mount Abu

Held on the last three days of the year, and requiring some pre-planning logistics, this festival is a great place to welcome the new year. It is organised by the State Government to celebrate the rich culture, folk dance, music and cuisine of Rajasthan. It begins with a procession to Lake Nakki, and ends on aa bright note with fireworks painting the night sky.

# Sunburn, Goa

Asia’s most amazing EDM festival adds to the reason why Goa is the most happening place in December. Against the backdrop of Vagator beach, multiple bands and musicians play from different stages, and render the air with enchantment for the music lovers.