Top Festivals to experience in July-August

India's festivals offer fascinating culture and tradition. These events, marking religious, seasonal, and historical milestones, feature light displays, colourful street celebrations, dholak (drums) playing, and spirited dancing and singing. Each festival offers a feast of regional delicacies, ethnic attire, and religious rituals.

Karsha Gustor
The Karsha Gustor Festival is held at the Karsha Monastery in the Zanskar Valley of Ladakh. This annual festival is renowned for its colourful mask dances, known as Cham dances, performed by the monks, accompanied by traditional music, that talks about Buddhist deities and teachings. Local people and visitors come together to partake in the rituals, seek blessings, and enjoy the cultural performances. The festival offers a unique glimpse into the rich traditions and spiritual life of Ladakh.

When and where to celebrate:
22-23 July 2025

The best place to experience the Karsha Gustor Festival is at the Karsha Monastery in Zanskar Valley of Ladakh. A visit during the festival provides a unique experience in the rich cultural and spiritual traditions of the region.

Dree Festival
The Dree Festival, celebrated by the Apatani tribe in the Ziro Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, is held every year in early July. It involves elaborate rituals and prayers to the deities Tamu, Metii, Danyi, and Harniang, seeking protection for crops and prosperity for the community. The festivities are characterised by traditional dances, songs, and the sharing of local delicacies, creating an atmosphere of joy and unity.

When and where to celebrate:
05 July 2025

The best place to experience the Dree Festival is Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh. Celebrated with agricultural rituals, cultural performances, and traditional songs and dances, the valley comes alive with the spirit of the Apatani tribe.

Amarnath Yatra
The Amarnath Yatra is a sacred annual pilgrimage to the Amarnath Cave, located in Jammu and Kashmir. This pilgrimage takes devotees up to the cave at an altitude of about 13,000 feet, housing a naturally formed ice lingam, a symbol of Lord Shiva. The yatra typically occurs during the months of June, July and August. It is a challenging journey, starting from the base camps in Pahalgam or Baltal. The trek is a test of physical endurance and a very profound spiritual experience. It is one of the most revered pilgrimages in Hinduism.

When and where to celebrate:
3 July to 9 August 2025

Amarnath Yatra starts in either Pahalgam or Baltal in Jammu and Kashmir. Pahalgam offers a longer, more gradual route with scenic beauty, while Baltal provides a shorter, steeper path for a more direct trek. Both routes offer really stunning Himalayan views.

Nag Panchami
Nag Panchami celebrates Lord Krishna's victory over the serpent Kalia, who, after being defeated, promised not to trouble Gokul's residents. It is also believed that pleasing the serpent god brings the blessings of Lord Shiva. The towns come alive with colourful lights, lively music, and offerings of milk and flowers to snake deities at temples. The rituals, folk dances, and spiritual music create an atmosphere of reverence and festivity.

When and where to celebrate:
29 July 2025

Nag Panchami is celebrated across India, but Varanasi and Ujjain are known for their elaborate rituals and temple celebrations. Nashik and Pune also stand out, with rituals at various temples dedicated to snake gods. Bengaluru’s Naga Devata temples attract large crowds, while Kochi's Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple draws many devotees.