14 Indian Festivals in November 2023 with Dates and Photos

India is popularly known as the land of diversity with its deep cultural and heritage roots. The country always holds a special place for travelers around the world because of its rich festivals and extravagant celebrations. Every month, you can witness various national or local festivals being celebrated by the people with full enthusiasm and joy. If you are planning to visit India in November, then you will not be disappointed.

In November, the weather is cool and pleasant, and the mood all around the country is festive. The full moon day of Kartik (A Hindu Month) is considered as some of the most sanctified time. This month also incorporates some elating fairs that highlight unique traditions and characteristics of diverse Indian culture. The whole nation remains busy celebrating different rejuvenating and auspicious fairs and festivals in this exuberant festive month.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets to India now and celebrate these amazing Festivals in November just like a local. Get ready to experience the vibrant cultures dancing at every corner of the country.

Best Festivals in November in India 2023

1. Dev Deepawali:

Dev Deepawali, which occurs 15 days after Diwali, is a festival of illumination in Varanasi. It is celebrated on Kartik Purnima (the full moon night of Kartik month in the Hindu calendar), which falls on November 14, 2016. Dev Diwali, the finale of the Ganga Mahotsav Festival, sees the ghats (riverbanks) of Varanasi lit up with thousands of lit clay lamps called diyas, with more of these floating into the river. It’s a sight to see, and a lavish Ganga Aarti and a variety of religious and cultural festivities follow it. 

Varanasi is a dream location for most travelers and spiritual seekers alike. People from all over the globe travel to this city and stay for days, seeking spiritual serenity, meditating on the banks of the Holy River Ganga, and visiting the temples in what is known as the city of temples. Dev Deepawali in Varanasi, also known as Dev Diwali, is the time of year when Varanasi genuinely seems to be a home of the Gods rather than merely a temple. Dev Deepawali, also known as the City of Lights, is most likely a manifestation of this moniker.

Dev Deepawali in Varanasi is a truly magnificent spectacle that is definitely worth witnessing. In the Holy City, every ghat and temple is illuminated with earthen ghee diyas. It is difficult to determine whether the stars have descended to Earth or not. During this auspicious occasion, it is believed that the Gods descend to Varanasi in order to take a dip in the holy River Ganga.

Date: 26th November 2023

Where: Varanasi

2. Pushkar Fair:

The Pushkar Fair, held annually in Pushkar, is renowned as one of the largest camel fairs in the world. The five-day camel and livestock fair is a visually stunning event that attracts travelers from all over the world. The main events occur at Pushkar Lake. The event features a camel race, local music, exhibitions, and cultural performances. The Pushkar Mela offers a wide range of attractions, including thrilling rides, a giant Ferris wheel, hot-air balloon rides, camel safaris, and a variety of food stalls. Make sure you don’t miss the “longest mustache” competition.

The Pushkar Fair attracts a diverse range of individuals, including pilgrims, foreign tourists, local traders and tribes, folk musicians and dancers, astrologers, snake charmers, and artists. This creates a vibrant and diverse atmosphere at the fair. Pushkar is a holy city that is renowned for its rare temples, including one dedicated to Lord Brahma. The city is centered around the famous Pushkar Lake. The Brahma Temple in Pushkar is not only the most important in the area, but it is also the only one of its kind in all of India.

Dates: 20th November to 28th November 2023

Where: Pushkar

3. Loku Festival, Arunachal Pradesh:

Chalo Loku is the most vibrant festival in Arunachal Pradesh. It is a harvest festival that takes place annually in October-November, immediately after the paddy field harvest and before the commencement of new Jhum cultivation. The festival derives its name from three words: “Cha,” meaning paddy; “Lo,” signifying season. And “Loku,” representing the festival. The festival’s main attraction is the rice bear, a special dish that is prepared exclusively for this occasion.

The festival lasts for three days and begins with a day called Phamlamja. On this day, animals such as pigs and buffaloes are slaughtered for meat while the village people make preparations for the following day. The second day of the festival is called Chamkatja. On this day, the Noctes allow the male members of the family to become full-fledged members of the Paang, which is the decision-making committee. On the third and final day, known as Thanlangja, villagers enthusiastically take part in traditional folk dances.

Dates: 25th November 2023

Where: Arunachal Pradesh

4. International Film Festival of India -IFFI, Goa:

Goa serves as the permanent venue for International film festivals and draws the attention of numerous national and international film communities. The festival is a celebration of film art, providing an opportunity to appreciate and gain a deeper understanding of films from various cultures around the world. The film festival showcases a diverse selection of both national and international art films through its screenings.

Over the years, the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) has gained recognition as one of the most prominent film festivals in Asia. The International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is a week-long celebration that showcases exceptional films from around the world, highlighting the diverse Indian heritage. The primary objective of the festival is to provide exposure to Indian cinema and introduce it to the global platform.

In order to attend the International Film Festival of India, individuals must first register as a delegate with IFFI and create a profile page. By registering as a delegate for the IFFI, you will gain access to various benefits. These include attending workshops and masterclasses, enjoying film screenings, accessing free Wi-Fi, receiving a delegate kit, and having the option to book tickets online.

Dates: 20th November to 28th November 2023

Where: Goa

5. Alpashi Utsavam, Kerala:

The Alpashi Festival takes place at the Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple in Thiruvananthapuram, which is widely recognized as one of the most prestigious temples in Kerala. The deities are bathed annually as part of a ritual. The procession begins at the temple and then continues towards Shanghumugham beach.

The procession will be led by the head of the Travancore royal family, who will carry a sword. The procession includes beautifully adorned elephants, mounted police, and formations of armed police officers. One example of a great event is the Alpasi Festival, typically held in either October or November annually. The Aarattu ceremony is a magnificent event that features a holy bath in the sea for the deities, making it the main highlight.

Dates: 14th November to 23rd November 2023

Where: Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram

6. Wangala Festival, Meghalaya:

The Wangala Festival, a celebration of 100 drums, is one of the most significant festivals in India. It takes place in November in Meghalaya and is a joyous occasion that marks the harvest season. To pay homage to Saljong, the Sun god of fertility, people adorn themselves in vibrant traditional attire and don feathered headdresses. They partake in various customs, such as seeking blessings for a bountiful harvest and engaging in lively folk dances like Katta Doka, Ajia, Dani Doka, and the Pomelo Dance.

The enchanting melodies of folk music accompany these festivities. The festivities last for two days, starting with the Ragula ceremony on the first day and the Kakkat ceremony on the second day. The Dama Gogota dance form follows these. The Wangala Festival, the largest festival of the Garo tribes in Meghalaya and Assam, is a celebration dedicated to the sun god Misi-Saaljong. It commemorates the bountiful harvest season and includes thanksgiving ceremonies and cultural performances.

The festival was initially celebrated on December 6 and 7, 1976, at Asanang, featuring the first official Hundred Drums performance. The festivities begin on the first day, with the Ragula ceremony held inside the chief’s house, followed by the Kakkat ceremony on the last day. People don traditional outfits and wear feathered headgear while playing folk tunes on long oval-shaped drums.

Dates: 10th November 2023

Where: Meghalaya

7. Rann Utsav:

Rann Utsav is a significant and extensive cultural festival celebrated in Kutch, Gujarat. It takes place from November to February. The cold weather during the winter months becomes even more captivating as the festivities breathe life into this place. In Gujarat, you will have the opportunity to experience a rich blend of culture and tradition. This includes folk music and dance, captivating storytelling, thrilling adventure sports, the vibrant cattle trading scene, peaceful desert walks, the display of exquisite handicrafts, and, of course, the mouth watering cuisines of the Rann of Kutch.

The enchanting landscape of dunes on a full-moon night becomes even more captivating during the Rann Utsav, providing unforgettable moments to cherish forever. Individuals have the opportunity to participate in various indoor games such as carrom board and ludo. Additionally, they can indulge in delicious food and savor traditional recipes from Kuch. Additionally, individuals have the opportunity to embark on a scenic journey through the captivating desert of Kutch, where they can marvel at the seemingly endless expanse of white sand. A visit to The Rann Mahotsav offers a perfect combination of rejuvenation and recreation.

Dates: 1st November 2023 to the 25th February 2024

Where: Kutch, Gujarat

8. Chahth Puja:

Chhath Puja, a festival dedicated to the Sun God, is celebrated by the local people of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh on the 6th day after Diwali. In India, there is a festival in November that lasts for four days. During this festival, people take a holy dip in the Ganges, offer prayers to the Sun God before sunrise, and prepare prasad, which includes sweet thekua, liiti, and chokha. Women gather together and march towards the river or pond to offer their morning offerings, known as ‘Usha Arghya,’ to the rising sun. They also participate in the sacred ritual of ‘nahan khan,’ which involves taking a holy dip in the water.

Dates: 17th November to 20th November 2023

Where: Mainly in Bihar, but you can witness it in different regions of North India

9. Ganga Mahotsav:

Devotees across India, particularly in Varanasi, celebrate the Ganga Mahotsav Festival in November to honor the revered Ganga River, which holds great significance in the country. The festival lasts for five days, with the shimmering light of earthen lamps, diyas, and the sweet fragrance of Dhoop and flowers creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere. The grand Ganga Aarti, taking place by the banks of the river, is a truly awe-inspiring sight to witness.

On this auspicious day, it is believed that gods descend from heaven to Earth to defeat the demon Tripurasura and partake in a sacred bath in the Holy River Ganga. Therefore, taking a dip in the holy river holds immense significance during the festival as it serves to purify one’s soul and seek salvation. During the event held on the banks of the river, one can witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. This event also offers the opportunity to capture the beauty of the floating oil diyas. Additionally, there are various cultural performances to enjoy, as well as fun and adventurous activities such as Kite Flying and a rangoli-making competition.

Dates: 18th November 2023

Where: Varanasi

10. Kartik Purnima:

The Kartik Purnima Festival is a highly revered religious celebration in India, observed on the day of the full moon in the month of Kartik, which typically falls in November. Also known as Tripuri Purnima, this festival involves devotees taking a holy dip in the Ganga and its tributaries. They also pay their respects to the gods and goddesses by lighting earthen diyas with flowers on the banks of the Ganges River.

Gurupuran, also known as Guru Purnima, is a Hindu festival that holds great significance in mythological beliefs. According to the legends, Lord Shiva played a pivotal role in rescuing the devas from the clutches of the demon Tripurasura. This powerful demon had managed to conquer the entire world and had even created three cities in the universe, which he named Tripura.

The day also commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord Matsya, who is the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, as well as Lord Kartikeya, the son of Lord Shiva. Witnessing the Sunrise dip in the holy river, reciting the Satyanarayana Vrat Katha, chanting ancient Vedic mantras, and performing Rudrabhishek are all part of the spiritual experience.

Dates: 27th November 2023

Where: All over India

11. Bhai Dooj:

Bhai Dooj, one of the purest festivals, is celebrated by Hindus all over India two days after the Diwali Festival. Similar to the Raksha Bandhan Festival, sisters apply tilak on their brothers’ foreheads instead of tying a Rakhi. They also offer their brothers dry coconut, gifts, sweets, and wishes for good health and luck. In return, sisters also receive presents from their brothers.

During the tika ceremony, sisters apply vermilion, dahi, and rice on their brothers’ foreheads. The markets are filled with vibrant stalls offering a wide range of gifts and products for Bhai Dooj, as well as a delightful assortment of sweets.

Date: 15th November 2023

Where: All over India

12. Hamir Utsav:

Himachal Pradesh is a must-visit destination for mountain lovers. The Hamir Utsav is a significant festival celebrated in November in Northern India. It honors the Hamirpur region, which is nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas. Hamir Utsav is a vibrant celebration that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Himachal through a variety of traditional shows such as Jatras and Jheras.

This festival is a wonderful opportunity to immerse oneself in the cultural events, dance, and music that are an integral part of Himachal’s identity. The festival not only offers breathtaking scenery and peaceful weather, but it also draws in thousands of visitors each year who come to revel in the festivities amidst the backdrop of snow-capped mountains and dense forests.

Dates: 1st week of November

Where: Himachal Pradesh

13. Bundi Festival:

There is no better time to visit Rajasthan than during the winter season when the state is adorned with vibrant cultural festivals. One of these festivals is the Bundi Festival, which is celebrated with great zeal for three days in November. The Rajasthan Tourism and Development Center organizes a magnificent Mela (fair) during the festival. The event features a royal Shobha Yatra, captivating folk music and dance performances, engaging acts, and a wide array of cultural events and enjoyable competitions.

The Bundi Festival, a cultural extravaganza, is celebrated in Rajasthan with great enthusiasm and joy. The festival is primarily celebrated to honor the craftsmanship and rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan, which has been cherished since ancient times. The popular sights at the event include a long procession called Shobha Yatra, stalls selling traditional handicrafts, pottery artifacts, and decorative products, camel races, magic shows, cattle trade, and many other attractions.

Dates: to be announced

Where: Bundi, Rajasthan

14. Sonepur Mela:

The Sonepur Mela, also known as the Sonepur Cattle Fair, is a lively festival celebrated annually in the Bihar state of India. It takes place on the full moon day in either November or December. Also known as Kshetra Mela, this festival is one of the largest cattle fairs in Asia. It takes place on the banks of the River Ganga.

The festival has a rich history, dating back to 300 BC. Throughout the years, it has been marked by a variety of cultural and enjoyable activities. These include captivating circus performances, impressive displays of martial arts, thrilling camel rides, mesmerizing magic acts, and vibrant folk dances and music. One of the main pilgrimage activities to experience here is the sunrise bathing and animal shows.  A holy sunrise bathes at the confluence of rivers Ganga and Gandak, and carnivals of traditional handicraft and pottery artifacts are some of the popular sights to witness in Sonepur Mela.

Dates: 20th November to 5th December 2023

Where: Bihar

Conclusion

India is a country known for its incredible diversity, where people celebrate all festivals with great enthusiasm. Discover the magnificent festivals in November in India, and embark on a journey to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of different regions in the country. Mark these significant dates in November for maximum enjoyment and delight.