6 Unmissable South Asian Festivals to Experience
Do you crave a cultural adventure that promises an explosion of colours, flavours and traditions? South Asia with its kaleidoscope of festivals is the place to be! From the sparkling lights of Diwali to the vibrant colours of Holi, these festivals will be your gateway to a world of enchantment. Here’s your guide to six South Asian festivals you should definitely visit.
1. Diwali – India
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is India’s grandest festival, celebrating the triumphant return of Lord Rama and his wife Sita after 14 years of exile. Legend has it that their return was heralded by rows of lamps lighting their way, a tradition that continues today as houses and streets glow.
This five-day festival, falling in October or November, transforms cities into a spectacle of lights and fireworks. Imagine wandering through the illuminated markets of Jaipur, watching dazzling fireworks along the Sacred Ganges in Varanasi or marvelling at the Golden Temple in Amritsar twinkling in festive lights. In Goa, parades and burning of effigies add dramatic colour.
Diwali is also a time of new beginnings, marked by donning new clothes and celebrating with loved ones. Need a sari or kurta pyjamas? Local shops will provide everything you need, or order online from Myntra or Jabong and your festive attire will be delivered straight to your hotel.
2. Holi – India
Holi, the Festival of Colours, is a raucous celebration of spring, usually held in late February or early March. For two days, cities in northern India such as Delhi, Jaipur and Agra are transformed into jubilant scenes of colourful merriment.
Imagine yourself in a sea of people spraying each other with dry and wet colours, waving water pistols and balloons, and dancing selflessly. Holi is a favourite festival among tourists – embrace the chaos, wear what you can’t afford to mess up, and dive into the fun! Social media is exploding with colourful photos as everyone captures the joy of this festival.
3. Kandy Esala Perahera – Sri Lanka
Kandy Esala Perahera, one of Sri Lanka’s oldest and grandest festivals, celebrates the Sacred Tooth of Buddha and honours the Buddhist deities Nathu, Vishnu, Kataragama and Pattini. Held in July or August, this ten-day extravaganza is a feast for the senses.
The term ‘Perakhera’ means parade, and what a parade it is! The streets come alive with singers, dancers, musicians, acrobats and ornate elephants. Traditional dances such as the Kandyan, a whip and fire dance, mesmerise the spectators. The sight of jugglers, fire-breathing and majestic elephants in full attire creates a spectacle of breathtaking beauty.
4. Dashain – Nepal
Dashain, Nepal’s longest and most awaited festival, symbolises the victory of good over evil. Lasting 15 days in September or October, it is a time when families from all over the world are reunited.
Celebrations include fairs, buying new clothes and preparing feasts, often with animal sacrifices. Giant bamboo swings called ‘ping’ are set up, offering fun rides for all ages, while colourful kites fill the sky, marking the end of the rainy season. While children enjoy the swings and kites, adults play a game of chance with card games.
5. Tshechu – Bhutan
Tshechu, or the Masked Dance Festival, is a deeply spiritual festival held at various temples throughout Bhutan. It is celebrated on the 10th day of the lunar month, the exact time varies from temple to temple.
The highlight of the festival is the masked dance, where performers don large masks and dance to Bhutanese folk songs such as Ausa, which are sung during the farewell. Temples during Tshechu showcase ancient traditions and crafts, offering a glimpse into Bhutan’s rich cultural palette.
6. Haa Summer Festival – Bhutan
Khaa Summer Festival, launched in early July, honours Bhutan’s nomadic pastoralists. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Himalayas, this two-day festival is a celebration of nature and tradition.
Explore rocky hills, alpine valleys and untouched forests. Witness the rare white poppy endemic to Haa. Enjoy traditional sports, songs, dances and religious ceremonies while savouring Bhutanese cuisine and local Ara liquor. Take part in mountain bike races and photo contests, or experience the hospitality of local families and get a taste of the nomadic lifestyle.
Embark on a journey through South Asian festivals and immerse yourself in a whirlwind of culture, tradition and unforgettable experiences!
