While monsoon in India is known for its misty hills and lush green escapes, it is also the season of some of the country’s most vibrant, spiritual, and culturally rich festivals. These monsoon festivals, celebrated between June and September, bring alive the spirit of renewal, devotion, and community—making them perfect experiences for travelers seeking authentic Indian traditions.
From sacred pilgrimages to grand chariot processions and tribal harvest celebrations, these festivals offer a unique perspective on how diverse India truly is. Here’s our pick of 7 monsoon festivals in India you should witness in 2025, with internal links to help you plan your journey.
1. Rath Yatra, Puri (Odisha)
The Rath Yatra in Puri is one of the most iconic monsoon festivals in India. Celebrated in June or July, this festival honors Lord Jagannath, who is taken out of his temple in a massive wooden chariot accompanied by his siblings, Subhadra and Balabhadra. Millions of devotees gather to pull the chariots along the Grand Road from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple—a distance of about 3 kilometers.
The energy is electric, with drums beating, chants filling the air, and colorful crowds stretching as far as the eye can see. What makes Rath Yatra a truly spiritual experience is its inclusiveness—devotees of all backgrounds come together to participate in the procession.
For travelers interested in attending, we recommend reading our Jagannath Temple travel guide and our Puri in January guide which includes local attractions and practical tips year-round.
2. Teej Festival, Jaipur (Rajasthan)
Celebrated with unmatched enthusiasm in Jaipur, the Teej Festival welcomes the arrival of the monsoon and celebrates the reunion of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Held in July or August, this festival is especially significant for married women who dress in green saris, apply mehndi, and sing traditional songs while praying for marital bliss.
The main highlight is the royal Teej procession that starts from the City Palace, featuring beautifully adorned idols, traditional music, elephants, and camels. For families and cultural travelers, it’s a fantastic opportunity to witness Rajasthani folk traditions, dances, and attire in their most vibrant form.
While you’re in the city, don’t miss the other attractions covered in our Chokhi Dhani Jaipur guide and Jaipur’s must-visit temples, which provide great add-ons to your monsoon itinerary.
3. Onam, Kerala
Onam is Kerala’s most celebrated festival and typically takes place in August or early September. This 10-day festival marks the return of the legendary King Mahabali and celebrates the harvest with elaborate feasts. Floral decorations (pookalam), traditional dances like Kathakali, and spectacular snake boat races. Explore Also: Boat Races in Kerala You Must Attend
The best places to witness Onam celebrations are Kochi, Thrissur, and Alleppey, especially during the Vallam Kali boat race. Families and food lovers can enjoy the Onasadya—a traditional vegetarian feast served on banana leaves with more than 20 dishes.
To make the most of your Kerala trip, explore our guides on authentic Kerala cuisine in Kochi and how to reach the backwaters of Alleppey. Onam is a cultural feast for the senses and an unforgettable experience during the monsoon.
4. Janmashtami, Mathura-Vrindavan (Uttar Pradesh)
Janmashtami, which falls in August, celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna and is most grandly observed in Mathura and Vrindavan, the places closely associated with his life. The celebration includes Ras Lila performances, midnight aartis, and Dahi Handi competitions. Where groups form human pyramids to break a curd-filled pot hung high above the ground. Spiritual Benefits of Living in Vrindavan
Mathura’s temples are beautifully lit, and the festive atmosphere is charged with devotion and joy. The Krishna Janmabhoomi temple sees thousands of devotees coming together to celebrate this divine occasion.
You can plan your spiritual journey with our detailed Mathura-Vrindavan Holi guide that also provides insight into Krishna-centric places and celebrations throughout the year.
5. Nag Panchami, Maharashtra and Karnataka
Held during the monsoon season (usually in late July or early August). Nag Panchami is a unique festival where devotees worship snakes—symbols of fertility. Protection, and divine power. In rural Maharashtra and parts of Karnataka. Processions involve live snake worship, traditional songs, and the offering of milk to serpent idols.
In cities like Pune and Belgaum, you’ll also find more symbolic celebrations at temples dedicated to Naga deities. For travelers interested in offbeat cultural experiences and rural traditions. Nag Panchami offers a fascinating glimpse into India’s deep mythological roots and agricultural heritage.
This festival pairs well with monsoon travel itineraries to Western Ghats. especially if you’re visiting the Western Ghats for nature travel. Which are lush, vibrant, and full of waterfalls during this time.
6. Aoleang Festival, Nagaland
While technically held in early April, the cultural spirit of the Aoleang Festival of the Konyak tribe in Nagaland. Stretches into the monsoon travel calendar for many travelers heading to North-East India during June and July. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore tribal culture, traditional attire, indigenous music, and food.
If you’re planning to explore India beyond the usual routes, this festival and the destination offer something truly authentic. Visit during the early monsoon when the landscape is verdant and alive. Combine your visit with places like Shillong or Kaziranga, and explore our guide to the Aoleang Festival for insights on how to attend respectfully.
7. Shravan Month Pilgrimages
The Hindu month of Shravan, usually spanning July and August. It is one of the most spiritually significant times in the calendar, especially for devotees of Lord Shiva. Pilgrimages to Jyotirlingas like Kedarnath, Trimbakeshwar, and Somnath peak during this time.
The faithful undertake Kanwar Yatras, offer water to Shivalingas, and fast on Mondays. For spiritual travelers, this is a deeply immersive time to explore India’s sacred geography while witnessing collective devotion. Temples like Baidyanath Jyotirlinga and Neelkanth Mahadev see massive pilgrim footfall in this month.
To plan your journey, check our blogs on:
Conclusion: Let the Monsoon Move You
Monsoon in India isn’t just about rain—it’s about rhythm, ritual, and reconnection. From colorful chariot festivals in Odisha to peaceful temple rituals in the Himalayas. Each of these monsoon festivals invites you to experience India at its most spiritual, cultural, and celebratory. If you’re planning a trip in June, July, or August. Align your itinerary with one of these festivals to gain a deeper appreciation of India’s living traditions.
