India has always been the land of fairs and festivals and Uttaranchal is no exception. Uttaranchal has a strong influence of Hinduism and this explains the religious fervor that characterizes most of the fairs and festivals in Uttaranchal. Uttaranchal is dotted with innumerable temples and the fairs and festivals in Uttaranchal are intricately enmeshed in the cultural fabric of the place. TourofTajMahal.com is your indispensable e-guide when it comes to the fairs and festivals in Uttaranchal.

Basant Panchami – This is one popular festival in Uttaranchal where Goddess Saraswati, the deity of learning and music is worshipped. Basant Panchami marks the starting of spring season. It is usually celebrated sometime between mid January to mid February. The color yellow becomes the color of the day and the kids and the youth participates in the celebrations in a big way.

Makar Sankranti – Makar Sankranti is considered an important festival in North India. The festival marks the beginning of season change. On this day, people take a dip in the holy Ganges. It is around this time that the Uttarayani fair is held. Another locally celebrated festival around this time is Ghughutia or Kale Kauva.

Harela and Bhaitauli – Celebrated on the first day of navaratri this festival in Uttaranchal has a number of customs associated with it. The women folk fill their baskets with soil and sow seven different kinds if seeds in them. On the tenth day, when the seeds have germinated and grown into grasses, they are plucked and put in head and behind the ears. It is during this time that brothers send gifts to their sisters. These tokens of love are called Bhaituali.

Olgia – The festival is celebrated at a time when the agricultural fields are filled with lush, green harvests. As a sign of gratitude the agriculturalists give presents to the landowners. The artisans also presents gifts to the purchaser’s of their tools and are given gifts in return.

Nanda Devi Fair – Among the fairs and festivals in Uttaranchal, Nanda Devi Fair is of great religious and cultural significance. Held at the famous Nanda Devi Temple, the fair commemorates the memory of goddesses Nanda and Sunanda. The Nanda Devi fair is held at many important cities across Uttaranchal like in Almora, Nainital, Kot, Ranikhet, Bhowali, Kichha and on a smaller level in villages of Lohar and in valleys of Pindar.

Hanol Fair – The fair is held at the Hanol Temple in Chakrata where the hill dwellers from all across the state assemble in large number. It provides the perfect platform to purchase wares from various merchants and spend some amazing time with friends and family.

Uttarayani Fair – Uttarayani Fair holds a special significance in both the cultural and social fabric of Uttaranchal. Held at a number of places including Bageshwar, Rameshwar, Sult Mahadev, Chitrashila, Ranibagh, and Hanseshwar among other places, the fair has emerged as an important commercial and cultural platform.

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