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As the chill sets in, it’s tempting to cozy up and stay indoors, but festivals in November make a strong case for adventure over blankets. If you’re ready to trade the couch for a camel race or moonlit dance, we’ve rounded up 7 fantastic reasons to pack your bags this month. Let’s break down the festivals that will make November the most exciting time to travel!
Top Travel Festivals in November 2026
1. PUSHKAR CAMEL FAIR
17th November 2026 – 24th November 2026
Pushkar, Rajasthan
Dating back to the 19th century, this festival has its roots in the trade, culture and commerce of the locals. It gained a lot of popularity and became an annual festival that has been celebrated for the last 150 years. This is one of the most celebrated Indian festivals in November; people from all over the world flock to the streets of Pushkar. Do yourself a favour and get talking with some locals for a more immersive experience. Check out Explurger’s Explore Your City to connect with like-minded travellers.
What to look for: Camel trade, cultural and folk performances, races, competitions, unique and delicious food, shopping, etc.
2. RANN UTSAV
1st Nov 2026 to 7th March 2027
Great Rann of Kutch, Dhordo, Gujarat
Imagine a great white salt marsh, frozen over, sporting a stunning sunrise and a starry night sky. Now imagine this great arid land occupied by some of the greatest performers of the country, some of the finest chefs, musicians, and artists. All of them gathered at Dhordo, one of the top 54 Best Tourism Villages of 2023 (UNWTO). Its upcoming festival in November is like stepping into another world, with traditional dancers twirling in the night over the desert and the haunting melodies of Gujarati folk music filling the air.
What to look for: An otherworldly white salt desert glowing under a full moon, vibrant performances from local artisans, including Garba and Dandiya dances, authentic handicrafts like bandhani (tie-dye), block-printed fabrics, and unique leather goods made by Kutch artisans.
3. DEV DIWALI/DEEPAWALI
24th November 2026
Mostly Varanasi/Banaras/Kashi
Imagine the banks of the Ganges River lit up by thousands of diyas (oil lamps), floating on the river and illuminating the historic ghats of Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world. That’s Dev Deepawali—a truly magical experience celebrated fifteen days after Diwali. This grand occasion is one of the most revered festivals in November, drawing devotees and tourists alike. The city is also famous for Ganga Mahotsav, a 5-day festival in November.
What to look for: The vibrant ghats, kartik snan (dipping yourself in the holy Ganges water at dawn), rangoli decoration, the diya lighting ceremonies and religious rituals, the winding colorful streets, delicious food(bhog as well as street food) and shopping for the world-famous banarasi saree.
4. BUNDI UTSAV
27th- 29th November, 2026
Bundi, Rajasthan
Since 1996, this small and offbeat town of Rajasthan has hosted a travel and cultural festival that celebrates the rich heritage and has become one of the most anticipated fests for the state. This upcoming festival in November showcases the folk traditions, dance, and art of Rajasthan’s rural heart. Picture a grand procession of November festivities, with musicians, dancers, and cultural displays making their way through Bundi’s historic streets.
What to look for: Since it’s an offbeat town, it would be very interesting to explore the nooks and crannies. Apart from that, this upcoming festival in november offers grand processions, craft exhibitions, art galleries, competitions and more.
5. MAJULI FESTIVAL
27th -29th November 2026
Assam
India’s Majuli Island, the world’s largest river island, hosts the Majuli Festival every November. This coming festival in November celebrates the heritage of Assam, with traditional dance, theater, and crafts all showcased amid the island’s serene beauty. For those looking to dive into India’s Northeast, Majuli Festival offers a unique window into the state’s cultural richness. Majuli is known as the cultural capital of Assam because of its devotion to preserving and celebrating the history and culture of the locals and the tribes.
What to look for: Traditional mask making competition, folk performances, art and craft exhibitions, an intra-festival for food, relevant seminars, and ofcourse the island beauty.
6. PURI BEACH FESTIVAL
4th – 10th November 2026
Odisha
Odisha’s Puri Beach Festival is a must for those who love the sea and the spirit of celebration. Held on the stunning beaches of Puri, this festival combines sand art, traditional dance, and a host of thrilling beach activities. You’ll find a mix of Indian and international tourists, all soaking up the sunshine and the vibrant culture on display. Started in 1993, this is one of the best festivals in November that celebrates sports, culture, cuisines, arts and crafts.
What to look for: Water adventure sports, beach shopping, sand arts exhibits, beachside performances, and local seafood delicacies.
7. MATSYA UTSAV
21st March 2026
Alwar, Rajasthan
Rajasthan’s Matsya Festival, held in Alwar, is another must-attend event when it comes to festivals in November. This festival celebrates the heritage of the Matsya region, with everything from folk performances to exhibitions showcasing Rajasthan’s history, arts, and crafts. Unlike other Rajasthan festivals focused on desert culture, this one highlights the region’s aquatic influences—hence the name “Matsya” (meaning “fish”).
What to look for: competitions, poet performances, cycling events (Alwar on Wheels), sand art, games, boat races, eco-trekking events, and of course the street food delights for this upcoming festival in November.
Final Thoughts: Festivals in November
November is the perfect month to embrace the festive spirit across India, with various cultural celebrations offering something for every traveler. So pack your bags, charge your cameras, and let these incredible Festivals in November take you on a cultural journey like no other! And don’t forget, with Explurger by your side, you can not only discover hidden spots, but also explore popular places, chat with locals and capture your travels in a way that you can remember for a lifetime!
FAQ’s about Festivals in November
Which festivals come in November?
Some of the main festivals in November include:
1. Pushkar Camel Festival
2. Rann Utsav
3. Dev Deepawali in Varanasi
4. Bundi Festival
5. Majuli Festival
6. Puri Beach Festival
7. Matsya Festival in Alwar
