By Mallika Bhagat
Copyright timesnownews
Rajasthan’s magic lies not only in its opulent palaces or endless desert horizons, but in its living traditions—played out in village courtyards, dusty town squares, tribal fairs, and centuries-old forts. The state’s festivals are not spectacles to be observed from afar, but experiences to be stepped into: where music, ritual and craft are part of daily life. Folk musicians perform late into the night, artisans decorate walls with intricate patterns, and families gather to share food and stories. To wander through a fairground, savour a local dish, or learn a traditional craft is to see Rajasthan at its most intimate—immersive, participatory, and grounded in community. Jodhpur RIFF (October 2-6)Every October, the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur will become the stage for the Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF), a gathering that puts the state’s musical traditions in the spotlight. Musicians from across Rajasthan share the space with international artists, creating fusions that range from haunting desert ballads to jazz and reggae. Concerts take place in the fort’s courtyards and terraces, with dawn ragas performed as the sun rises over the city and late-night jam sessions breaking out under the stars. Singing Sands Heritage Festival (October 10-12) This October, the 275-year-old Dundlod Fort in the Shekhawati region will host the second edition of the Singing Sands Heritage Festival. For two days, its courtyards and painted havelis will become stages for folk songs, storytelling, craft demonstrations and equestrian displays. If you’re in the state, make your way to the fort where you can join workshops on playing traditional instruments such as the morchang and nagada, try turban-tying, or paint maandana, the delicate folk murals of Rajasthan. There are guided tours of a Marwari horse stud farm and a haveli-turned-museum on offer as well. Kumbhalgarh Festival (TBD; Usually First Week Of December) Each December, Kumbhalgarh Fort (and its walls stretching for 36 kilometres across the Aravalli hills) becomes the setting for a three-day celebration of Mewar’s heritage. Folk musicians, classical dancers and Kathputli puppeteers share the stage, while artisans showcase textiles, jewellery and pottery. Travellers can try henna painting or turban-tying before watching the fort illuminated at night in a sound-and-light show that recounts its storied past. Bundi Festival (TBD)Every November, the Hadoti region marks the Bundi Utsav, which spills into forts, havelis and market squares. Folk music, puppet shows and artisan displays animate the streets, while heritage walks and village safaris offer glimpses into local life. Travellers can join traditional games, sample dal baati churma or gatte ki sabzi, and witness performances that feel woven into everyday existence rather than staged for visitors. Jaisalmer Desert Festival (Jan 30-Feb 1, 2026)If you thought the desert was just a vast stretch of golden nothingness, think again! Once a year, the Thar Desert transforms into a riot of colors, music, and sheer madness at the Jaisalmer Desert Festival. This three-day cultural fiesta, held at the Sam Sand Dunes, is Rajasthan at its most dramatic. Think turban-tying contests, where men race against time to create the most elaborate headgear. The biggest event though is the mustache competition—where proud Rajasthani men flaunt their magnificently curled and groomed mustaches. You can also see puppeteers, fire dancers, acrobats, and traditional bands that add to the non-stop spectacle. Travel News – Find latest news and tips based on Indian and World travel including top 10 travel destination, tourism information, how to reach visit and more at Times Now.
