Find out where in India the best places are to celebrate Makar Sankranti, where colourful customs and cultural events come to life. Discover the distinctive festivities that make this festival genuinely exceptional, from the large-scale kite festival in Ahmedabad to the holy rites in Haridwar.
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India celebrates Makar Sankranti, or Uttarayan, on January 14–15 to signify the end of winter and the start of longer days. Kite flying, a celebration of joy and freedom, is a significant feature of this festival honouring the Sun god Surya. It marks the start of the harvest season and new beginnings as the first major event of the year. Celebrated all around the country, it highlights the variety of Indian cultures and traditions. Preparing sweets and regional foods, as well as taking sacred river baths for spiritual purification, are popular pastimes. It's the perfect season to experience India's vibrant and spiritual festivals because of the pleasant weather.
Rajasthan celebrates Makar Sankranti with enthusiasm through cultural events, traditional songs, and kite-flying competitions.
Jaipur, in particular, hosts grand kite festivals, parades of horses, camels, dancers, and musicians, creating a vibrant festive atmosphere.
The colourful markets filled with kites are a must-visit, offering perfect souvenirs to remember the celebration.
Gujarat's grand Uttarayan celebrations are renowned, with Ahmedabad hosting one of the world's largest kite festivals during Makar Sankranti.
The sky fills with colourful kites of various shapes and sizes, as participants engage in friendly competitions.
The annual International Kite Festival attracts enthusiasts globally.
The city's old charm is enhanced by vibrant kites and local delicacies like undhiyo.
Celebrated over two days, Uttarayan features intense kite flying and traditional chants.
Visitors can enjoy local cuisine and partake in festive activities at premium resorts like Club Mahindra Kensville Golf Resort, offering a deep dive into Gujarat's rich culture and traditions.
In Guwahati, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Magh Bihu, marked by community feasts and entertainment events.
Bonfires made from wood and bamboo are lit to welcome the new season.
Celebrations last up to a week, featuring games like ‘tekeli-bhonga’ (pot breaking) and buffalo fighting.
Locals prepare rice cakes and laru, a sweet dish made from coconut, and host feasts in Meji huts, which are burned down after the celebrations.
For a unique Makar Sankranti experience, Assam offers a distinctive charm and vibrant festivities.
In Tamil Nadu, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Pongal, a four-day harvest festival.
Celebrations begin with Bhogi, where old items are burned to symbolize renewal.
On the main day, people cook a sweet dish called Pongal, made from freshly harvested rice.
The third day features the traditional Jallikattu festival, where men attempt to tame wild bulls.
The final day is spent with family, hosting feasts.
Tirunelveli is notable for its unique Pongal celebrations, including bull-taming events and cultural performances.
For a memorable experience, visitors can stay in Ooty at Club Mahindra resorts, enjoying traditional Pongal dishes and festivities.
During Makar Sankranti, the holy city of Haridwar attracts numerous pilgrims who come to take a sacred dip in the Ganges River for blessings and purification.
The ghats of Haridwar come alive with rituals, prayers, and cultural performances.
The famous Har Ki Pauri Ghat is especially vibrant, with large crowds gathering to perform the Ganga Aarti, creating a spiritually uplifting atmosphere.
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