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Festivals of Uttar Pradesh The fascinating state of Uttar Pradesh plays host to a plethora of colourful festivals and fairs all through the year, at venues as diverse as Sarnath, Lucknow, Rishikesh and Kumaon, among others.
Rishikesh is the site of the International Yoga Week, organised by UP Tourism, in February, where one gets to learn yoga from great masters from all over the world, along the banks of the Ganga. The Taj Mahotsav, held in the February, at Agra is an apt introduction to the majesty of the country and the state. A vibrant mosaic that brings together the cream of Indian arts, crafts and cultural nuances. A land steeped in valour and chivalry, with every nook and corner resounding with poignant memories of the great past, Jhansi, plays host to the festive spirit, in the months of February-March. Holi, a festival of riotous gaeity and colour, comes alive in Lord Krishna's mystical homeland, Brajbhoomi, in the month of March. The Rang Gulal Festival at Mathura showcases all that this exuberant festival is all about. The birthplace of the Buddha, Uttar Pradesh's unique Buddhist festival, the Buddha Mahotsav, held in April-May, takes one on a fascinating journey through the Buddhist world.
The Garhwal Festival, held in October-November, celebrates the spirit of the Garhwal people, living in the lap of the glorious Himalyas.
The Kumaon Festival, in the month of November, brings to life the magic of the Kumaoni hills and the people who call these home.
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The
Badri-Kedar festival, held at the sacred shrines of Badrinath and Kedarnath,
in the month of June, pays handsome tribute to the cultural richness of
India. The festivities, that stretch over eight days, brings together the
greatest artistes of the country, at a unique festival destination.
The
Vrindavan Sharadotsav held at Brajbhoomi, in the month of October, encapsulates
the magical nature of the land of Lord Krishna. The haunting melody of
Krishna's flute still echo from every nook and cranny.
The
city of Varanasi or Banaras, situated along the banks of the Ganga, celebrates
the timeless glory of the river, every year in the months of October-November.
A rare festive experience that pays a fitting tribute to the mighty Ganga.
The
Lucknow Festival, in the months of November-December, captures
the undying elegance and splendours of Awadh, now Lucknow. A brilliant
showcase of the arts, crafts, and above all the heavenly cuisine
of this land, the festival is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.