With the last quarter of 2017, comes the most exciting time of the year, when festivals and celebrations are in the air. And while many like to take their long holiday in December, the smart spender this year is planning short-haul in December and longer trips in September, when flights and hotels are not showing frenzied pricing. So put your travel plans into action because, let’s face it, most parts of the country are cooling down! As we draw a close to the heavy monsoon spells, here is a list of places to visit in India this September for the perfect end-of-year expedition you know you’re craving!
1. Ramlila, Varanasi
What’s happening: The City of Light has been religiously hosting the Ramlila in Varanasi’s Ramnagar Fort for the past 233 years; a spectacle that spans across a whole month! The lead characters are played by boys below the age of 16 who are required to enunciate in Sanskrit to be cast in the performance. No artificial lighting or props are used; using only the natural setting, the story is brought to life. Here’s your unique chance to relive the history!
When: September 5 – October 6
Where: On the banks of the Ganges River in Ramnagar
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2. Pune International Literary Festival, Pune
What’s happening: Bookworms unite! The Pune International Literary Festival is back with the 2017 edition, with an exciting list of speakers including Javed Akhtar, Christopher Kloeble, Asha Parekh, and Ekta Kapoor. Book readings, dance performances, panel discussions, and interviews abound, the event promises to be a treat for everyone! Entry is free for all, and registrations are now open on their website.
When: September 8 – September 10
Where: Yashwantaro Chavan Academy of Development Administration, Baner Road
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3. Ladakh Festival, Ladakh
What’s happening: The beautiful landscape of Ladakh comes alive every year at the annual Ladakh Festival in Leh and its villages. Traditional folk music, dancers donning Ladakhi apparel and costumes, and an enormous procession of cultural troupes walk through the Ladakh market; all creating the most surreal visual delight for spectators who visit the region. Masked dances, archery and polo, and musical concerts are all a huge part of the week-long festivities!
When: September 17 – September 24
Where: Across the region of Ladakh
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4. The Lil Flea, Delhi
What’s happening: After 3 years of its huge success in Mumbai, The Lil Flea is making its way to the capital and it’s going to be legendary! For brand creators, art lovers, city hoppers, and enthusiastic spectators alike, the Flea is a community for the city’s art and a creative scene that you wouldn’t want to miss.
When: September 22 – September 24
Where: Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Delhi
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5. Kullu Dussehra, Himachal Pradesh
What’s happening: The Kullu Dussehra Festival is the perfect amalgamation of culture, music, and dance set upon the beautiful backdrop of Kullu’s majestic gorges and waterfalls. The week-long festival starts on Vijaya Dashmi with a huge celebration and on the last day, a mass of wood grass is burnt on the banks of Beas River, signifying the burning of Lanka. The true essence of the North stands unique in the Kullu Dussehra celebrations, making it a special destination for your next visit!
When: September 30 – October 6
Where: Dhalpar Maidan, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh
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6. Durga Puja, Kolkata
What’s happening: One of the biggest festivals in India, there’s no hesitation when it comes to admitting the fact that Durga Puja is best witnessed and experienced in Kolkata. On the last day (Dashami) the Durga idols are carried in a stunning procession and immersed in the river – an event that you need to see to believe the grandeur of it! The celebrations take place over five consecutive days Shasthi, Saptami, Ashtami, Navami, and Dashami.
When: September 26- September 30
Where: Kolkata
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7. Ziro Music Festival, Arunachal Pradesh
What’s happening: More than 35 Indie bands with a zest for life and passion for music invite you to one of the best annual music festivals in the picturesque Ziro Valley. With the perfect mix of regional, national, and international bands, the fest is to have its best edition yet, expecting a footfall of over 6000 people in four days! Some of the acts scheduled to play include: Bint El Funk, The Kathmandu Killers, and German band Can’s vocalist, Damo Suzuki.
When: September 28 -October 1
Where: Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
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Are you ready yet?
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