Hindustan Times (Gurugram) - Hindustan Times (Gurugram) - City
SEIZE THE SUMMER WITH THESE FESTIVALS! From the International Flower Festival in Sikkim to the Mount Abu Festival in Rajasthan, explore India’s diverse culture with these summer festivals
Saka Dawa Festival, Ladakh JUNE 14
One of the most revered Buddhist festivals in Ladakh, Saka Dawa, is celebrated in the fourth month of Tibetan calendar, which is the month of June in the Gregorian calendar. It is the celebration of the birth of Lord Buddha, his enlightenment, and his death or mahaparinirvana on full moon. Prayers are offered in the monasteries on this festival, along with chanting of holy verses and performance of Cham Dance (Mask Dance). It is also considered as the day of setting the captive animals free.
Shimla Summer Festival, Himachal Pradesh JUNE 1-9
Celebrated by the locals on a grand scale, Shimla Summer Festival is attended by tribal people, budding artists and tourists, to mark the advent of the season. For the people of the Himalayas, this festival is a way to mark a successful harvest season. Shimla, which was the summer capital during the British Raj, started this festival in order to boost tourism of the state around 59 years ago. The Ridge Maidan is the venue where several activities such as music festival, flower shows, sports tournament takes place.
Shruti Shende
As Covid-19 restrictions ease up after two years, summer festivals are back again in all their glory, attracting tourists from all over the country. If you are wondering how to spend your summer holidays this year, a visit to these festivals will not only allow you to travel to different states but also experience their culture, people and food, up close. Here are some festivals that you could visit with your friends and family. Read on.
International Flower Festival, Sikkim MAY 1-31
Celebrated to create awareness about flowers and plantation of the region, the International Flower Festival is a month-long affair that takes place in May at White Hall in Gangtok, Sikkim. Several flower shows are conducted to display species such as gladioli, roses, orchids, alpine plants and trees, creepers, climbers and ferns. Other than the festival, May is also an ideal time to visit the state, as it’s known for its beautiful Nature trails!