Navratri and Durga Puja (Nationwide)
The festive heart of October beats strongest with Navratri, a nine-night extravaganza celebrated across India. In 2026, Shardiya Navratri begins on Sunday, October 11, and culminates on Monday, October 19. In western India, particularly Gujarat, this
means nine nights of vibrant Garba and Dandiya Raas dances. In eastern India, especially West Bengal, the same period is observed as Durga Puja. The main festivities, featuring magnificent 'pandals' (temporary structures housing idols of Goddess Durga), begin on October 16 and conclude with idol immersion on October 21. Kolkata is the epicentre of Durga Puja, with art, culture, and food creating an unforgettable carnival. For travellers, this is a time of sensory overload in the best way possible, but be sure to book flights and accommodation well in advance as cities become exceptionally busy.
Dussehra (Vijayadashami)
The grand finale of Navratri is Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, which falls on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. This day symbolises the victory of good over evil. In North India, it commemorates Lord Rama's victory over the demon king Ravana. Celebrations often involve watching 'Ramlila' plays, which reenact the story, and culminate in the burning of towering effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarna, and son Meghnada. In other parts of India, the day marks Goddess Durga's triumph over the demon Mahishasura. It's a public holiday and a day of feasting and family gatherings. For a unique experience, witnessing a local Ramlila performance can offer a deep cultural immersion.
Mysore Dasara (Mysuru, Karnataka)
While most of the country celebrates Dussehra on one day, the city of Mysuru in Karnataka hosts an 11-day spectacle known as Mysore Dasara. In 2026, the festivities run from October 11 to October 21. This 'Nadahabba' or state festival is famous for its royal heritage. The Mysore Palace is illuminated with nearly 100,000 light bulbs every evening, creating a breathtaking sight. The festival includes cultural performances, a grand exhibition, and food fairs. The climax is the 'Jamboo Savari' (elephant procession) on Vijayadashami, October 21, where an idol of the Goddess Chamundeshwari is carried atop a decorated elephant through the city streets. This is followed by a torchlight parade in the evening. It's a majestic and highly organised event that draws visitors from around the world.
Kullu Dussehra (Kullu, Himachal Pradesh)
In the picturesque Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Dussehra celebrations have a unique flavour. Here, the festival begins when it ends for the rest of the country. The week-long Kullu Dussehra will start on October 20, 2026, and continue for seven days. The festival commences with a grand procession where the idol of the principal deity, Lord Raghunath, is carried on a chariot, accompanied by hundreds of other village deities brought from the surrounding hills. The Dhalpur Maidan in Kullu becomes a hub of cultural performances, trade, and socialising. Unlike the effigy-burning in the north, the Kullu celebration focuses on this divine congregation. Travellers should note that this is the busiest week of the year for the valley, so planning is essential.
Marwar Festival (Jodhpur, Rajasthan)
Experience the folk traditions of Rajasthan at the Marwar Festival in Jodhpur, scheduled for October 24 and 25, 2026. Originally known as the Maand Festival, this two-day event is held in memory of the state's heroes. The main venues are the majestic Mehrangarh Fort and Umaid Bhawan Palace. The festival celebrates the music, dance, and romantic lifestyle of Rajasthan's rulers. You can witness folk artists performing ballads of Rajput warriors, colourful puppet shows, and camel tattoo shows. It's an authentic cultural dive into the heart of Marwari heritage, set against the stunning backdrop of the Blue City.
