The month of March, in India, marks the beginning of spring season and during this time, the states of Rajasthan and Kerala play host to some popular and renowned festivals in India.
While Kerala will host many temple festivals, Elephant Festival and International Yoga Festival will happen in Rajasthan and Rishikesh. On the other hand, there is Goa whose environment will be filled with fun and frolic during Goa Carnival. So, plan a vacation to India in March and enjoy the vibrant culture and colors of celebrations.
Goa Carnival
When: March 1-4, 2014.
Where: The carnival takes place in four different cities on each day- Panaji, Margao, Vasco and Mapusa.
![]()
It is a unique opportunity of watching endangered Olive Ridley turtles taking their first step into the sea at the annual Turtle festival. The list of visitors comprises of housewives, students, doctors, journalists, engineers, photographers, social workers, teachers and researchers etc. Besides, tourists will have an opportunity to slice the local lifestyle in the area.
When: 20th February, 2014 to 10th March, 2014
Where: The carnival takes place in four different cities on each day- Panaji, Margao, Vasco and Mapusa.
Konkan Turtle Festival
It is a unique opportunity of watching endangered Olive Ridley turtles taking their first step into the sea at the annual Turtle festival. The list of visitors comprises of housewives, students, doctors, journalists, engineers, photographers, social workers, teachers and researchers etc. Besides, tourists will have an opportunity to slice the local lifestyle in the area. When: 20th February, 2014 to 10th March, 2014
Where: Velas village, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra
International Yoga Festival
![]()
Organized by Parmarth Niketan Ashram in Rishikesh, the annual International Yoga Festival is a one week festival. More than 400 people from far-off places partake in this world’s largest yoga gathering. The festival offers world class yoga classes from world class yoga teachers, evening discussions with some leading spiritual leaders and vegetarian cooking classes among others.
When: March 1-7, 2014
Where: Parmarth Niketan Ashram, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Paripally Gajamela
![]()
One of the most impressive festivals in Kerala, the Paripally Gajamela features around 50 richly decorated elephants. They form part of a ritual as they have the privilege of escorting the numerous gods and goddesses. The people of Kerala keenly observe elephant pageants during this festival.
When: March 2, 2014
Where: Paripally Kodimootil Sree Bhadrakaali Temple, Kollam
World Living Heritage Festival
Organized by the royal family of Mewar, The World Living Heritage Festival promotes the cultural diversity of the Mewar region. The four day long festival comprises of arts and crafts workshops, photo exhibition, musical concerts, food festivals and various technical conferences. This year a food festival called Rangoli will be organized with colorful food and beverages.
When: March 13-16, 2014
Where: Udaipur City Palace Complex, Rajasthan
Chinakkathoor Pooram
![]()
A huge pageant which took place at the Sree Chinakkathoor Bhagavathy Temple, Chinakkathoor Pooram witnessed a procession of 33 decked tuskers which offers a visual delight. The procession, held in the evening, is accompanied by drumming and other traditional music.
When: 14th March, 2014
Where: Sree Chinakkathoor Bhagavathy Temple, Palappuram
Thirunakkara Arattu
![]()
Celebrated at Thirunakkara Arattu in the Kottayam district of Kerala, Thirunakkara Arattu is a grand festival which starts on the first day of Meenam month of Malayalam calendar. The main highlight of the procession is decorated elephants which are accompanied by drummers and other performers.
When: March 15-24, 2014
Where: Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, Kottayam District, Kerala
Jaipur Elephant Festival
![]()
Organized on the eve of Holi, the Jaipur Elephant Festival is the best event to witness groomed and decorated elephants enjoying a parade around the city. One can also catch a glimpse of Elephant Polo Game. Adding to the entertainment is the tug of war game between elephants and human beings.
When: March 16, 2014
Where: Jaipur, Rajasthan
Commonly referred to as the “Festival of Color”, Holi is a time when people exuberantly throw color and water all over each other. They enjoy parties and dance under water sprinklers. On the occasion of Holi, Bhang is also consumed in the form of ‘Thandai’. It is a festival where people don’t mind getting wet and dirty. When: March 17, 2014
Where: All over India
India Restaurant Week
![]()
An opportunity to dine in some of the best and finest restaurants in India at a fraction of normal fare, India Restaurant Week is the best place to treat your bellies with great and lip-smacking food. Three course meals are served.
When: Yet to be announced
Where: Bangalore, Delhi and Mumbai