Durga Puja in Kolkata, West Bengal
Recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Durga Puja transforms Kolkata into a massive open-air art gallery. The festival, celebrating the victory of goddess Durga, is marked by elaborate temporary temples called pandals, stunning
idol craftsmanship, and an infectious festive spirit. For 2026, the main festivities are scheduled from late September to early October. This is the time to dive into Kolkata’s legendary street food scene, which works overtime during the Puja. Don't miss out on phuchka, kathi rolls, and an array of chops and cutlets. For a more traditional meal, seek out the Bhog Khichuri served at community pandals or indulge in Bengali classics like Kosha Mangsho (slow-cooked mutton) and Chingri Malai Curry (prawn in coconut cream). Between pandal hopping, visit the Sundarbans National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the world's largest mangrove forest, or see the iconic terracotta temples of Bishnupur.
Pushkar Camel Fair, Rajasthan
A spectacular nine-day event, the Pushkar Camel Fair is a quintessential Rajasthani experience, drawing traders, pilgrims, and tourists alike. Scheduled for mid-November 2026, the fair coincides with the holy Kartik Purnima, when pilgrims bathe in the sacred Pushkar Lake. The landscape is a riot of colour, with thousands of camels, folk music, and cultural performances. As a holy town, Pushkar is strictly vegetarian, but its food is anything but boring. You must try Dal Baati Churma, a local staple. The streets are lined with vendors selling snacks like kachori, poha, and sweet malpuas. The town is also close to Ajmer, home to the famous Dargah Sharif of Moinuddin Chishti. The imposing Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur and the majestic forts and palaces of Jaipur are also within a few hours' drive, making for an excellent heritage extension to your trip.
Hornbill Festival in Nagaland
Held in the first week of December every year, the Hornbill Festival is a grand celebration of Nagaland's diverse tribal heritage. Hosted at the Kisama Heritage Village near Kohima, the 'Festival of Festivals' brings together all of Nagaland's major tribes to showcase their music, dance, and traditions. It's an unparalleled opportunity to experience the rich Naga culture in one place. The food stalls are a major attraction, offering a chance to sample authentic Naga cuisine, which is known for its use of smoked meats (especially pork), bamboo shoots, and fiery chillies. Try the rice beer for a truly local experience. While in the region, explore Kohima's historical sites, including the WWII Cemetery, a poignant memorial to the soldiers who fought in one of the war's most critical battles. Nature lovers can trek to the stunning Dzukou Valley or visit Khonoma, recognised as Asia's first 'green village'.
Onam in Kerala
Onam is Kerala's most significant festival, a harvest celebration that transcends religious boundaries. The festival commemorates the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali and usually falls in August or September. For those planning for 2027, the main day, Thiruvonam, falls around mid-September. The highlight is the Onam Sadhya, an elaborate vegetarian feast featuring 20-30 different dishes served on a banana leaf. Key dishes include rice, sambar, avial (mixed vegetables in coconut), thoran, and a sweet payasam for dessert. Beyond the feast, the festival is marked by stunning pookalam (floral carpets), traditional dances, and the famous snake boat races (Vallam Kali). While in Kerala, explore the state’s rich heritage by cruising the serene backwaters in a traditional houseboat or visiting the historic port city of Kochi with its unique Chinese fishing nets and colonial-era architecture.
