Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Uttar Pradesh, a state rich in culture and tradition, celebrates a variety of festivals that reflect its agricultural roots and spirituality. Among these, harvest festivals hold a special place, marking the time when farmers give thanks for a bountiful harvest. Harvest festivals of Uttar Pradesh, such as Khichdi Mela and Chhath Puja, are celebrated with immense devotion and enthusiasm. They not only highlight the state’s deep agricultural heritage but also bring communities together, showcasing vibrant rituals, traditional foods, and cultural performances. These festivals serve as a reminder of Uttar Pradesh’s connection to nature, prosperity and harmony.
Location
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons
Uttar Pradesh is located in the northern part of India, bordered by Bihar to the east, Madhya Pradesh to the south, Rajasthan to the west and Haryana and Delhi to the northwest. The state is also flanked by the national capital, New Delhi, to the north. With a rich historical and cultural significance, it is home to cities like Lucknow, Varanasi and Agra. This makes it an essential hub for tourism and pilgrimages in India.
How To Reach
Photo: Ravi Dwivedi / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The state has major airports like Lucknow’s Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport and Varanasi’s Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, connecting it to major Indian cities and international destinations.
By Rail: Uttar Pradesh has an extensive railway network, with major stations in Lucknow, Varanasi, Kanpur and Agra, providing direct access to cities across India.
By Road: The state is connected through national highways, with bus services and private transport linking cities to nearby regions.
Best Harvest Festivals Of Uttar Pradesh
From Khichdi Mela to Chhath Puja, these harvest festivals in Uttar Pradesh shines with their celebrations, zean and zest:
1. Khichdi Mela
Photo: Adam Jones / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Khichdi Mela is a prominent harvest festival celebrated during Makar Sankranti, which falls in mid-January, particularly in Uttar Pradesh. It is especially famous in Gorakhpur. Here thousands of devotees visit the Gorakhnath Temple to offer khichdi, a humble dish made of rice and lentils, to the revered Guru Gorakhnath. The festival has deep religious roots and is believed to bring blessings of prosperity and good health. The tradition of offering khichdi has been practiced since ancient times, reflecting the significance of the harvest season. The mela also features religious discourses, traditional folk performances and a sense of community, making it a joyous occasion.
Celebration Month: January (Makar Sankranti)
Special Attractions: Pilgrims offering khichdi at Gorakhnath Temple, cultural performances, fairs and
traditional rituals
2. Chhath Puja
Photo: Amitksachin / Wikimedia Commons
Chhath Puja is one of the most important harvest festivals in Uttar Pradesh, celebrated primarily in the eastern regions during October or November. This festival honours the Sun God (Surya) and his sister, Chhathi Maiya, to thank them for their blessings and seek prosperity. The celebration lasts for four days and involves strict fasting, offering prayers to the rising and setting sun and making offerings of ‘prasad’. Devotees gather at riversides or ponds to perform arghya (offerings) at sunrise and sunset. The atmosphere is vibrant with devotional songs and processions, particularly in Varanasi and Gorakhpur. The festival is also seen as a community event, promoting unity and goodwill.
Celebration Month: October or November
Special Attractions: Rituals of holy bathing, offering prayers to the Sun, grand processions and community gatherings at riverbanks and ghats
Where To Stay
Photo: bottlein / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Uttar Pradesh offers a range of accommodation options catering to different budgets and preferences. For luxury stays, the Taj Hotel in Agra and The Lalit in Lucknow provide top-tier amenities and stunning views of iconic landmarks. Mid-range hotels such as the Radisson Blu in Varanasi and Clarks Shiraz in Agra offer comfortable stays with excellent services. Budget travellers can opt for guesthouses, hostels or budget hotels like Hotel Surya in Varanasi or Hotel Shyam Palace in Mathura. For a more local experience, heritage havelis and resorts in places like Vrindavan and Ayodhya also provide unique stays.
Where To Eat
Photo: Deepanshu Srivastava / Wikimedia Commons
Uttar Pradesh offers a vibrant culinary scene, reflecting its rich cultural heritage. In cities like Lucknow, the renowned Tunday Kebab and Lucknawi biryani are a must-try, best enjoyed at the famous Tunday Kababi. Varanasi is famous for its chaat, especially tamatar chaat and kachori sabzi, available at local stalls. Agra’s Petha, a sweet made from ash gourd, is a treat for dessert lovers. For a more traditional meal, try dal puri, puri sabzi, or kebabs. The state also boasts a variety of street foods, including dahi puri, aloo tikki and bhallas, best sampled at local eateries and markets.
Best time To Visit
Photo: Saloni Desai / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit Uttar Pradesh is during the winter months, particularly from October to January. This period includes two major festivals Chhath Puja and Khichdi Mela, both of which celebrate the harvest season. Chhath Puja, usually observed in October or November, is a vibrant festival focused on Sun worship and is especially prominent in regions like Varanasi and Gorakhpur. The Khichdi Mela, celebrated in mid-January during Makar Sankranti, marks the end of the harvest season and is best experienced in Gorakhpur. These festivals showcase the rich cultural and agricultural heritage of the state.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Dietmar Rabich / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average cost of a trip to Uttar Pradesh ranges from ₹15,000 to ₹40,000 for budget travelers and ₹40,000 to ₹80,000 for mid-range to luxury travelers for a 5-7 day visit, depending on accommodations, transport and activities.
Tips For Travellers
- Uttar Pradesh is home to historical landmarks like the Taj Mahal, Kumbh Mela, and ancient temples. Take time to explore the local culture, visit traditional markets, and witness folk performances.
- The climate can be extreme, with scorching summers and chilly winters. Pack accordingly-light cotton clothes for summer and warm clothing for winter visits.
- Don’t miss out on the state’s iconic dishes like kebabs, kachori, petha, and chaat. Street food is a must-try in cities like Varanasi, Agra, and Lucknow.
- Uttar Pradesh is deeply rooted in religious practices. Be respectful when visiting temples, mosques, and other sacred sites. Dress modestly and follow local customs.
- Uttar Pradesh has an extensive railway network connecting major cities. Traveling by train is not only convenient but also a great way to experience the local life and landscapes.
Uttar Pradesh is a treasure trove of culture, history, and spiritual significance, offering a unique blend of ancient traditions and vibrant festivals. Visiting the state during its harvest festivals, like Khichdi Mela and Chhath Puja, provides an unparalleled experience. Harvest festivals , with their deep-rooted agricultural significance and cultural richness, offer travelers a chance to witness the state’s true essence. The colorful rituals, devotional fervor, and lively celebrations make Uttar Pradesh a captivating destination. Hurry up, plan your visit with TripXL and head out on an interesting trip to UttarPradesh with your family and friends.
Cover Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
