Looking to experience the culture and vibrancy of Karnataka? Then you must attend the top ten festivals of Karnataka. Don’t forget to partake in the colourful and joyous celebration of the Dasara Festival and the captivating folk theatre of the Baha Festival. Don’t miss the vibrant celebration of Ganesha Chaturthi, the Chitra Santhe and the Mysore Dasara. Enjoy the vibrant and lively atmosphere of the Kambala Festival and the Nadahabba. Attend these festivals and experience the culture and vibrancy of Karnataka.

Experience the grandeur of Mysore Dasara, the Royal Festival with pomp and show. Celebrate the 10-day festival culminating on the day of Vijayadashami, when Goddess Chamundeeswari or Durga is believed to have slain the demon Mahishasuran. Marvel at the illuminated Mysore Palace and take part in the grand processions starting from the Palace and ending in Bannimantap. Enjoy the cultural programs and special poojas performed by the Royal Family. Do not miss this spectacular festival, drawing tourists from all over the world!

Time of celebration: September - October
Duration: 10 Days

Every year on November 1st, Karnataka celebrates its formation day as 'Rajyotsava'. This marks the birth of Karnataka state, formed in 1956 when Kannada-speaking regions of South India were merged. The Government of Karnataka awards individuals for their contribution to Kannada culture and Karnataka on this day. Cultural programs and celebrations are held across the state to showcase its cultural heritage. People wear yellow and red (representing the Karnataka Flag) and flags are seen everywhere, chanting the anthem of Karnataka – Jaya Bharatha Jananiya Tanujate. Celebrate Rajyotsava to experience the festive culture of Karnataka!

Time of celebration: November
Duration: 1 Day

Karnataka, India, is a vibrant state full of unique and colourful festivals, each with its special significance. From Ganesha Chaturthi and Ugadi to Hampi and Kambala Festival, there is something to celebrate for everyone. The Mysore Dasara and Karnataka Rajyotsava are also important occasions in the state. All of these festivals bring people together to honour their gods and goddesses, enjoy traditional food and music, and celebrate the beauty and culture of Karnataka.

Celebrate Ganesha Chaturthi, one of the main festivals of Karnataka! This 10-day celebration begins with the 4th day of the waxing moon period and ends with the 14th day. Pray to the Lord with clay idols placed in the holy shrines. At home, a small area is cleaned and the idol is placed for puja. Enjoy two sweet dishes, Modak and Karanji. Perform the Prana Pratishtha, Shodashopachara, and Uttar Puja rituals to pay tribute to Lord Ganesha. So get ready to celebrate this sacred festival with devotion and joy!

Time of celebration: September
Duration: 10 days

Experience the joy and fervour of Ugadi, the popular festival celebrated in Karnataka, Andhra, and Telangana! This period is believed to be very promising, especially for those making new beginnings. Families come together to pray and feast, decorating their homes with flowers and mango leaves. A must-do during the celebrations is to read the Panchangam, the Hindu calendar listing the events of the year. Try the speciality dishes like Bevu Bella, Holige, Hesaru Bele Payasa, and Mavinakayi Chitranna - it's a celebration not to be missed!

Time of celebration: March
Duration: 1 day

Hampi Festival, a grand celebration of the birth of renowned poet Purandaradasa, is celebrated every year in Karnataka, India. The 3-day festival showcases the talent of Kannadigas in art, music, and dance. It also features fireworks, puppet shows, and a concert of folk songs called ‘Janapada Kala Vahini’. During the festival, the monuments in the 15 KM-long ruins of Hampi, are illuminated. Various other activities like water sports, games, exhibitions and painting competitions are organised. National and international stars perform in the festival, making it a grand success.

Time of celebration: 27-29 January
Duration: 3 days

Gowri Festival is celebrated a day before Ganesh Chaturthi to pay tribute to Goddess Gowri. On this day, women take a bath, dress in new clothes, and perform a puja with turmeric, kumkum, black bead, and bangles. They also offer a bagina of rice, dal, and other items. In addition, married women's families send them the Gauri Habadda gift. Celebrated throughout India, Gowri Festival is a special day that is believed to bring strength and courage to all.

Time of celebration: August
Duration: 1 day

Celebrated on the first full moon of the Hindu calendar, the Karaga festival is a mesmerising sight. Led by men, it is a ritual dedicated to Goddess Draupadi. A Karaga carrier dressed up as a woman carries a pyramid of flowers on his head and visits all the Veerakumaras in his temporary Devi State. What is inside the Karaga is still a mystery, and the carrier must balance it well or face death. Don't miss this great festival, which portrays respect and love for Draupadi, the Shakti Devi.

Time of celebration: March/April.
Duration: 11 Days.

The Pattadakal Dance Festival is an annual celebration of India's majestic art and culture. Held in the historic village of Pattadakal, this event draws dancers from all over the country. With its grand temples devoted to Lord Shiva, beautiful carvings, and craft mela, one is bound to be mesmerised. Koodiyattam, a traditional Indian dance form, is also performed at the festival. So if you are looking for a unique cultural experience this January, don't miss out on the Pattadakal Dance Festival!

Time of celebration: January.
Duration: 3 Days.

Are you ready for an experience of a lifetime? Join us in the town of Shravanabelagola for the once-in-12-year Jain festival. Watch the anointing of the 17.3736 metres tall statue of Siddha Bahubali and the shower of flowers from a helicopter. Petals, gold coins, silver coins and precious stones, will be offered to the Statue. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity - join us to celebrate the famous Pattadakal dance festival in January! The next Shravanabelagola festival will be observed in 2028.

Time of celebration: February.
Duration: 9 Days.

Kambala is a traditional buffalo race festival celebrated in the Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka. This unique and exciting sport is celebrated every year from November to March with much enthusiasm. It is a dedication to Lord Kadri Manjunatha, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The festival consists of two teams racing two slushy tracks to determine the fastest team. Participants control the buffaloes with skill and precision to win the race. The winner is rewarded with a coconut and other prizes. Kambala is a joyous celebration for the farming community, with traditional music and dance. Join in the festivities and witness the exhilarating buffalo races!

Time of celebration: November to March.
Duration: 2 days.

The Top 10 Karnataka Festivals That You Must Attend

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