July is the peak monsoon month with heavy rains, mist, and vibrant festivals. Traditional, locals carouse a lot of festivals to lift the spirits of the people during the monsoon season. Many festivals have scientific proof that the activities and delicacies allow the human body to fight the misty climate, better. In short, if you wish to make the most of the month, and do not wish to sit indoors, try and attend all these popular festivals in July!
Here are some of the festivals in July 2020 that are very popular in India.
Puri Rath Yatra
If you're looking forfestivals in July 2020that help you learn both about the Indian religion and culture, then this 12-day longJagannath Puri Rath Yatrais something you must be a part of. The exuberant festival celebrates the venturing out of Lord Jagannath along with and his elder brother Balabhadra & sister Subhadra off their abode in Puri's Jagannath Temple. Amongst the most popularfestivals in Odisha, this Yatra will also let you witness how chariots are made.
When:July 2020
Where:Jagannath Temple, Puri, Orissa
Behdienkhlam Festival: A Traditional Meghalayan Festival
One of the most importantIndian festivals celebrated in Julyevery year, the Behdienkhlam is a traditional celebration by the Pnar tribe of Meghalaya, which is done right after the agricultural sowing is over. Staying true to its name, wherein ‘khlam' means plague and ‘behdien' means to drive away with sticks, this festival is held only to drive away from the negative things that may affect the crop. Though what's worth witnessing about it is the football match held between the locals and the procession of chariots & ceremonial tree trunks that marks the end of this three-day festival.
When:8th July 2020
Where:Jowai, Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya, Northeast India
The Big Indian Food Festival
A celebration of the country's rich culture and culinary diversity, this festival is nothing less than a gastronomic treat. The two-day long event is a must-attend if you're a foodie at heart. Showcasing the best cuisines of every state, thisfestival in July in Indiawill make you fall in love with this country even more.
When:NA
Where:Karnataka Trade Promotion Organisation, Plo No. 121, Whitefield Industrial Area, Bangalore
Dree Festival: An Agricultural Festival
One of the bestJuly month festivals, Dree is an agriculture-related celebration of the Apatani Tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. Held annually, it is celebrated to seek the blessings of the gods & goddesses of crops for a good harvest and is comprised of singing, dancing, sacrificial offerings, prayers, and other cultural performances. Reflecting the rich culture of the tribe at its best, there's no doubt that Dree is one of the mostfamous festivals in India.
When:5th July 2020
Where:Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
Palkhi Festival: A Unique Maharashtrian Festival
Highlighting a unique feature of the Maharashtrian culture, this 1000-year oldfestival celebrated in July in Indiais one-of-its-kind. The palkhi begins at the start of the month, comprises of people singing and dancing until they reach Pandharpur, and ends on the 22nd day. If not anything, the custom of ‘wari' and people wearing Dnyanba-Tukaram will amuse you.
When:1st July 2020
Where:Pandharpur, Maharashtra
Royal Enfield Himalayan Odyssey
Not exactly a cultural festival, but an event for the adventure lovers and thrill-seekers, this festival is the 15th edition of its kind this year. Unlike the others, this is an event you can completely be a part of if you love tasting thrilled via a bike ride. The 18-day journey takes bike riders through rough terrains and mountain passes, making them push their limits and celebrating the courage for the same.
When:NA
Where:New Delhi to Ladakh
Phyang Tsedup Festival
This festival is celebrated in Ladakh's Phyang Monastery wherein you can see smiling Lamas in beautiful attires. They represent different characters from a dance drama. Apart from this, monks wear vibrant silk costumes and worship their deity along with performing Chham. The best part about this festival is the different masks and artefacts that portray the teachings of Buddha. Phyang Tsedup Festival is celebrated in July or August whichever falls the sixth month according to the Tibetan Calendar. If you are looking forJuly festivals 2020in North India then you must attend this vibrant festival.
When: 18th July 2020
Where: Phyang Monastery
Teej Festival
With the onset of the monsoon season begins theTeej Festivalwhich is mainly a festival for married Hindu women. Dressed in their best colourful clothes, women pray and celebrate for the well-being of their partners. The festival is known by several other names and it is celebrated in July, August or September in different parts of India. Some of the popular names are Hartalika Teej, Haryali Teej, and Kajari Teej. Most of the women celebrate thisHindu festival in July.
When: 23rd July 2020
Where: Jaipur and other parts of India
Drupka Teshi Festival
Commenced by the Buddhists, this festival is held to praise the three ultimate truths on the fourth day Teshi of the 6th month Drukpa of the Tibetan date-book. The celebrations include petitions that are held at the Deer Park, an amusing Yak Race in Muguthang, and more. So, if you're planning atrip to the Northeast, make sure you add this festival in your itinerary for an extraordinary experience.
When:NA
Where:Gangtok, Sikkim
Nishagandhi Monsoon Music Festival
With a hope to make this event one of theimportant festivals in July in Indiaand also attract more visitors to the state during monsoon, Kerala Tourism is launching this new festival this year. Hosting some of the most eminent musicians from across the country, it will be music and a dance festival where one will get to witness all the popular and traditional music forms. So, if your heart beats for cultural music, this one's got to be on your list!
When:NA
Where:Nishagandhi Auditorium, Kanakakunnu Palace Grounds, Trivandrum, Kerala
Karsha Gustor Festival
The largest and the most important monastery in Zanskar, the Karsha Monastery celebrates this festival annually to recognize the victory of good over evil. From a Black Hat Dance performance to a Masked Dance performance by the monks, this festivity is full of uniqueness. Apart from the joyful music and dance, one also gets to witness the vibrant colours of the region during Karsha Gustor. Needless to say, this is one of theIndian festivals in Julywhich are so worth attending!
When:30th to 31st July 2020
Where:Zanskar, Ladakh