Fair and Festivals

Bagwal Mela Devidhura

High in the Uttarakhand hills, Devidhura explodes with life each August during the Bagwal Mela, a vibrant festival centered around Raksha Bandhan. The centerpiece of this celebration is a unique, symbolic stone-throwing battle enacted at the Barahi Devi Temple. Here, participants split into two teams, flinging stones skyward in a tradition steeped in local history. This act retells an age-old tale of divine intervention, ensuring a captivating experience for all who witness it.

But Bagwal Mela goes beyond the dramatic stone-throwing. The festival throbs with the energy of local performances, pulsating music, and captivating dances. It's a time for the Devidhura community to come together, strengthening their bonds, while also welcoming visitors from far and wide. This lively celebration in Champawat district serves as a vibrant testament to the enduring power of tradition, ensuring its legacy continues to flourish for generations to come.

Hilljatra

In some parts of Kumaon, Hilljatra is a special festival tied to farming. Celebrated during the harvest season, it honours the earth’s bounty. Traditional songs and dances define the festivities, narrating tales of nature’s cycles and the toil of farming. Hilljatra is a happy time to appreciate the hard work put into farming and brings the community closer. It’s a time when people share in the joy of a successful harvest, making the bonds between them stronger.

Harela

A burst of joy erupts across Uttarakhand with the arrival of Harela, a vibrant festival heralding the monsoon season. Celebrated with infectious enthusiasm, communities gather to sow seven different types of grains, each symbolizing abundance and prosperity in the year ahead. This act of planting serves as a powerful connection between the people and the earth's fertile bounty. As the first refreshing drops of rain kiss the parched soil, it's a time of fervent hope, with the belief that these sown seeds will flourish into a bountiful harvest. 

Budi Diwali

It is Known as the ‘Diwali of the Gods,’ it is celebrated a month after the conventional Diwali festival. People celebrate by praying and lighting lamps for the deities. It’s a special time for quiet reflection and devotion, adding extra joy and reverence to the Diwali festivities, extending the spirit of celebration with divine connection.

Chhipla Jaat

Chhipla Jaat is a religious pilgrimage in the Kumaon region. Devotees undertake this sacred journey to honour their faith. The pilgrimage carries profound spiritual meaning, bringing individuals together in a shared expression of deep respect for their faith amid the scenic beauty of Kumaon.

Kumaoni Holi

Kumaoni Holi, a special version in the Kumaon region, stands out for its unique style and musical celebrations. The festivities showcase a distinctive approach to the traditional Holi celebration, making it a vibrant and melodious experience that captures the essence of the cultural richness in Kumaon.

Gaindi Mela

Gaindi Mela, a vibrant local fair, graces various corners of the Garhwal region. It’s a lively celebration, painting the cultural canvas of Garhwal with colorful hues and fostering a spirited atmosphere that captivates both residents and visitors.

Phool Dei

Phool Dei is a festival celebrating the blooming season, primarily embraced by young girls. During this joyous time, they go door-to-door, offering flowers and spreading happiness. Phool Dei is a charming tradition that adds a floral touch to the festive spirit, bringing smiles to communities.

Poornagiri Mela

The Poornagiri Mela, hosted near the Poornagiri Temple, becomes a sacred magnet for thousands of devotees.They come to worship and ask for blessings. It’s a special event full of respect and joy, creating a lively gathering near the temple.

Selku Mela

Selku Mela, another community fair, carries strong religious importance.It is a distinctive blend of tradition and festivity.

Nanda Devi Raj Jat

Nanda Devi Raj Jat is a holy and grand pilgrimage occurring every twelve years. This sacred journey is marked by deep reverence, drawing devotees to the spiritual path. It’s a significant event, with participants undertaking this extensive pilgrimage in honour of the revered Nanda Devi deity.

Uttarayani Mela

Uttarayani Mela, occurring on Makar Sankranti, is culturally and commercially important. This fair is a vibrant celebration, bringing together people for cultural exchanges and trade. It holds a unique place as a festive and bustling event, adding joy and economic activity to the Makar Sankranti festivities.

Gauchar Mela

Gauchar Mela holds vital importance as a trade and cultural fair in the Garhwal region. This gathering is a key hub for commerce and cultural exchanges, where people come together for both business and festivities. Gauchar Mela adds a lively touch to the economic and cultural vibrancy of Garhwal.