India is a land where traditions come alive through its many festivals. For travellers, attending one is a chance to witness age-old rituals, taste regional delicacies and share in the joy of communities coming together. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most iconic festivals in India that draw visitors from across the globe.
Diwali is one of the most famous celebrations in India. Known as the Festival of Lights, it symbolises the triumph of good over evil. Families decorate their homes with oil lamps called diyas and create colourful floor patterns called rangoli. Streets glow with light, and markets are filled with the energy of people buying gifts, clothes and sweets.
For travellers, Diwali offers a chance to enjoy fireworks lighting up the night sky and to join locals in sharing delicious treats such as laddoos and barfis. Cultural shows, dance performances and concerts add to the festive mood. Visiting during Diwali is truly stepping into a world of joy and splendour.
Holi is perhaps the most vibrant Indian festival, marking the arrival of spring. Its roots lie in Hindu legends celebrating love and the victory of good. The night before, bonfires known as Holika Dahan are lit, symbolising the burning away of negativity. The next day, the streets turn into a canvas of colour as people throw powders and splash water.
Travellers joining Holi should be ready for a lively, playful atmosphere filled with music, dancing and laughter. The energy is contagious, and it’s a festival where strangers become friends in moments. It’s wise to wear simple clothes, as you’ll end up covered in colour from head to toe.
Onam is a harvest celebration held in Kerala. Rooted in the legend of King Mahabali’s return, it is a time of joy and cultural pride. Homes are decorated with flower carpets called pookalams and traditional games and dances fill the air with excitement.
A key attraction is the Onam Sadya, a grand feast served on banana leaves with multiple dishes such as avial, sambar and payasam. Tourists can also witness snake boat races in Kerala’s backwaters and performances like the Pulikali tiger dance.
Durga Puja is a grand event, especially in Kolkata and eastern India. It honours Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura. The highlight of this festival is the creation of artistic clay idols displayed in elaborate structures called pandals, which are set up across neighbourhoods.
Visitors can experience pandal hopping, where each display is unique and often paired with cultural programs. Music, drama and dance are common, giving you a taste of local art forms. Food is another draw, with stalls serving Bengali favourites like kosha mangsho, luchi and mishti doi.
| Festivals In India | Festival Date 2025 | Festival Date 2026 | Festival Date 2027 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Holi | March 13th | March 4th | March 22nd |
| Onam | September 5th | August 26th | September 12th |
| Durga Purja | September 28th - October 2nd | October 17th - 21st | October 6th - 10th |
| Diwali | October 21st | November 8th | November 29th |
Note: Dates may shift slightly each year depending on the lunar calendar, so always double-check closer to your travel plans.
Travelling during the festivals in India is thrilling, but it can also mean navigating huge crowds, travel delays or unexpected changes to your plans. That’s where 1Cover makes the difference. With our comprehensive travel insurance for India, you can focus on the celebrations while we take care of the rest. Policies provide 24/7 emergency assistance, cover for overseas medical expenses and protection for lost or stolen belongings.
Before you set off to witness an unforgettable Indian festival, get a quote with 1Cover and travel with peace of mind and freedom to enjoy it all.
Long-term travel isn’t a holiday, there are a few things you need to think about.
There are certain tough lessons that going out on the road will force you to learn.
We’ve developed something of a reputation abroad. Sometimes good, sometimes bad.
You’ll definitely buy one of these. In fact you’ll probably buy several. I know I have.
Have a fun, safe & enjoyable holiday with our guide to staying safe in Bali.
1Cover’s UK Survival Guide is packed full handy hints, tips and tricks from those in the know.
1Cover ® is a registered trademark of 1Cover Pty Ltd. 1Cover Pty Ltd ABN 91 105 954 265, is an authorised representative of Coffre-Fort Pty Limited ABN 66 125 358 518, AFS Licence No. 472457. Before you buy, please read the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determination. Any information contained on this website is general advice only and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider these having regard to the Product Disclosure Statement (‘PDS’). Before you purchase, please note in particular, the eligibility criteria, travel warnings in place and limitations to claim under multiple policy sections.
This insurance is underwritten by HDI Global Specialty SE – Australia.
AU
NZ