Indian Festivals You Can Experience on a Ganges River Cruise

Visiting India means discovering a vibrant kaleidoscope of colors, culture, and traditions you'll never forget. Amongst the most exciting of these traditions are the numerous festivals held throughout the country every year. From Diwali to Holi, read about the festivals you may have the chance to experience during your cruise, along with the approximate times of year they tend to occur.*

Vasant Panchami
When: January or February
Experience the vibrant festivities of Vasant Panchami, a celebration dedicated to Lord Saraswati, the deity of learning, music, and art. This day marks the beginning of new beginnings and is filled with joyous rituals. If time permits, we’ll catch this festival while sailing downstream towards Mayapur, where you’ll hear the captivating Hindu chants performed by skilled priests.

Mahashivrati
When: February or March
Mahashivratri, which commemorates the marriage of Shiva and Parvati, is celebrated with great enthusiasm all over India. The festivities begin in the evening with a fast and an all-night vigil. Rituals performed throughout the next day, such as the pouring of water, milk, and honey or leaving offerings of flowers, are meant to please Shiva so that he may bring prosperity and happiness to their lives.

Holi
When: March
Holi is a feast for the senses with a rich history and cultural significance—as well as one of the most internationally recognizable of the Hindu holidays, known for the colorful powders celebrants throw. As we welcome Holi on March 25th, we invite you to join us on the sun deck for a memorable celebration filled with music and the splash of vivid colors.

Durga Puja
When: September or October
The vibrant and captivating Durga Puja is an annual Hindu festival celebrated with immense fervor and devotion. It honors Goddess Durga, who symbolizes power and triumphs over evil. This extravaganza takes place in eastern India. People from all walks come together, adorning the streets with dazzling lights and grand temporary shrines.

Diwali Festival
When: October or November
Diwali, the celebration symbolizing the victory of light over darkness, is India's most beloved festival. As the sun sets, the sky erupts with mesmerizing fireworks. Join us on the evening of November 1st for the ultimate Diwali experience in Kolkata. Our sun deck will transport you into the heart of the festivities, offering the chance to decorate the ship with glowing lamps and safely ignite crackers. Discover the magic and excitement that Diwali brings, embracing a memorable celebration like no other.

Chhath Puja
When: October or November
This four-day festival is held in honor of the sun god Surya. Through their celebrations, devotees assemble at the ghats (waterfront steps) to express their gratitude to the Surya for giving life to the earth by taking a holy dip and presenting offerings in the form of food and prayers.

Kartik Purnima
When: November or December
Occurring during Kartik, the holiest month of the Hindu calendar, this festival is held in honor of Vishnu, as well as Shiva’s slaying of the demon Tripurasura. Fasting, holy baths, charity, and fire rituals are all important rites on this holiday.

*Festival dates are based on the Hindu lunisolar calendar, and therefore fall on a different date on the Gregorian calendar each year.

Note: The contents of this article are accurate as of the publication date. Uniworld itineraries and inclusions are subject to change at any time.