Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is not only famous for its palaces and vibrant bazaars—it’s also a city where festivals burst with color, music, and ancient traditions. Throughout the year, Jaipur hosts a dazzling array of festivals that offer visitors a deeper glimpse into its royal heritage, cultural pride, and joyful spirit. If you want to experience Rajasthan’s culture at its best, timing your trip with one of Jaipur’s major festivals is simply unforgettable.

1. Jaipur Literature Festival (January)

The Greatest Literary Show on Earth

Held every January at the historic Diggi Palace, the Jaipur Literature Festival attracts writers, thinkers, and artists from around the globe. With lively discussions, book launches, poetry readings, and music performances, it's a must-visit for literature lovers.

Highlights:

• Free entry (with registration)

• International and Indian literary icons

• Live music sessions in the evenings

2. Elephant Festival (March)

Majestic Parade of Painted Elephants

Celebrated during Holi, Jaipur’s Elephant Festival features beautifully decorated elephants parading through the streets. The festival includes elephant polo matches, tug-of-war games between elephants and humans, and folk dances.

Highlights:

• Colorful processions and competitions

• Traditional Rajasthani music and dance

• Unique photo opportunities

Note: In recent years, the festival has evolved to include more ethical celebrations, focusing on traditional Rajasthani performances and crafts.

3. Holi – Festival of Colors (March)

A Riot of Color and Joy

Holi in Jaipur is an explosion of color, music, and happiness. Locals and visitors come together to throw colored powders, dance to traditional and Bollywood music, and share festive sweets like gujiya.

Highlights:

• Public Holi parties with DJs and organic colors

• Traditional Holi celebrations at city palaces and heritage hotels

• Cultural performances showcasing Rajasthani folk art

4. Gangaur Festival (March-April)

Celebrating Love and Fidelity

Gangaur is one of Rajasthan’s most significant festivals, dedicated to Goddess Gauri, the symbol of marital bliss. Women dress in vibrant saris, carry beautifully adorned idols, and participate in grand processions through the streets of Jaipur.

Highlights:

• Women wearing traditional attire and jewelry

• Processions with music, dance, and decorated idols

• An authentic glimpse into Rajasthan’s spiritual traditions

5. Teej Festival (July-August)

Welcoming the Monsoon with Joy

Teej celebrates the arrival of the monsoon and the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Women dress in green sarees, apply intricate henna designs, and swing from elaborately decorated swings set up in courtyards and gardens.

Highlights:

• Swings, folk songs, and dances

• Women’s processions with decked-out palanquins and elephants

• Traditional sweets like ghewar

6. Diwali – Festival of Lights (October-November)

The Brightest and Most Magical Time in Jaipur

During Diwali, Jaipur transforms into a city of lights. Markets, homes, and monuments are illuminated with twinkling lamps and colorful lights. The atmosphere is festive, with firecrackers, shopping fairs, and special Diwali feasts.

Highlights:

• Stunning illuminations at Johari Bazaar and Hawa Mahal

• Fireworks displays lighting up the sky

• Traditional Diwali shopping and sweets tasting

7. Kite Festival (Makar Sankranti, January)

Battling in the Skies

In January, Jaipur’s skies come alive with thousands of colorful kites during the International Kite Festival. Families gather on rooftops, and competitions are fierce yet friendly.

Highlights:

• Professional kite flying competitions

• Local rooftop celebrations with music and feasting

• Traditional snacks like til laddoos

Cultural Vibes Throughout the Year

Beyond these major festivals, Jaipur hosts cultural shows, folk dance performances, and handicraft fairs year-round, especially at places like Jawahar Kala Kendra and Rajasthan International Folk Festival events.

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit for Festivals:

• January to March: Literature Festival, Kite Festival, Elephant Festival, Holi

• July to August: Teej Festival

• October to November: Diwali

In Jaipur, every festival is a vibrant story, filled with colors, traditions, and heartfelt joy.
Whether you're witnessing the elephants parade with pride, throwing colors during Holi, or lighting lamps during Diwali, the festivities of Jaipur offer memories that will stay with you forever.