Dusserah is over – but the festivities continue. The holiday calendar for October starts off with Muharram and is followed by Gandi Jayanti and Diwali later in the month. And then, there is a splatter of local festivals you should not miss. Our list for October
Varanasi
A trip to Varanasi is a treat any given time of the year. However, during the month of October, a trip to Ramnagar 15 km from Varanasi is mandatory. The re-enactment of Ramayana at different stages is a pleasure to watch. And do check out the Ganga arati at the Ghats near Varanasi.
Also read: Ganga aarti: a serene treat for the eyes
Jodhpur
Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF) is your first stop if you want to explore Rajasthan and get introduced to its unique culture. The venue is the Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur. The sights and sounds are all the more alluring because the festival is timed to match the full moon day of the year. This year, the festival is being held from October 5 – 9.
Bir and Billing
Do you love adventure? This is the perfect time to go paragliding at Bir and Billing, two pristine places near Shimla. And once you are done with being adventurous explore the calm and serene monasteries.
Goa
The beach shacks are slowly opening up. There is a slow but steady trickle of tourists. The flea markets are open and the water sports are catching on. It will be November before Goa becomes crowded, so make the most of it.
Amritsar
Diwali is a festival that the Sikh community holds close to their hearts. Do you need more reasons to head to the Golden Temple at Amritsar?
Also read: The Golden Temple: an escape into the haven of brotherhood
