Fall Festivals and Events in October in India: Where to Go in October 2026

October changes the mood of India. The monsoon begins to retreat, the evenings turn pleasant, and suddenly there are fall festivals and events in October everywhere you look. Gujarat starts dancing, Kolkata lights up, royal palaces glow after dark, and music spills out of forts, stadiums and city streets.

If you’re looking for places to visit in October in India, this is a month that makes choosing just one destination surprisingly difficult. You can chase Garba in Gujarat, watch Mysuru Palace shimmer during Dasara, wander through Kolkata’s pandals or head into the hills for Kullu Dussehra.

And it isn’t only about the big celebrations. October brings flower festivals, folk traditions, cultural gatherings and plenty of live music too. Some fall festivals are spectacular on a grand scale; others are best discovered quietly, away from the busiest crowds. The variety of events in October also means there is something for almost every kind of traveller.

From traditional celebrations to contemporary music, October showcases very different sides of India. Here are some of the most interesting festivals in October 2026 worth planning a trip around.

Good to know: Gandhi Jayanti falls on Friday, 2 October 2026, creating a three-day weekend before the main festive rush begins.

October Festivals at a Glance

Navratri and Garba in Gujarat

11-20 October 2026Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Rajkot and Surat

Come evening, Gujarat practically switches gears.

Come evening, Gujarat practically switches gears.

Garba grounds begin filling up, dhols get louder, lights come on and colourful chaniya cholis whirl across the dance floor. Men turn up in embroidered kediyu and colourful kedas, while bandhani dupattas, mirror work and chunky jewellery add even more colour to the scene. Before long, the familiar taali-taali rhythm takes over and the whole ground is moving together.

And then there is Dandiya. With decorated sticks in hand and quick rhythmic steps, dancers move in pairs and circles, creating a completely different energy from Garba. Some venues focus on traditional Garba, while others bring both styles together for lively late-night celebrations. Either way, expect plenty of colour, music, twirling outfits and the inevitable “bas, one more round!” before anyone actually calls it a night.

The nine Navratri nights run from 11 to 19 October, followed by Vijayadashami on 20 October. What starts as a religious celebration quickly becomes a city-wide social occasion, with some Garba and Dandiya events carrying on well into the night.

Navratri in Gujarat 2026 will bring celebrations across Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Rajkot and Surat. Ahmedabad is known for its large-scale Garba events, while smaller community nights can offer a more intimate glimpse of the tradition.

For anyone searching for Garba in Gujarat 2026, this is one of the most vibrant Indian festivals in October and one of the fall festivals worth building an entire trip around.

Planning to stay nearby? Browse handpicked hotels in Ahmedabad, Vadodara hotels, Rajkot hotels or Surat hotels.

A few things to know:

• Large Garba and Dandiya grounds can get extremely busy.
• Traditional Gujarati clothing is common but not compulsory.
• Popular ticketed events should be booked early.
• Hotels tend to fill quickly during Navratri.

Mysuru Dasara, Karnataka

11-21 October 2026Mysuru

Mysuru has its royal charm all year round. During Dasara, though, the city turns up the volume.

Mysuru Dasara 2026 brings cultural performances, exhibitions, processions and the famous illumination of Mysuru Palace. The grand finale, Jumboo Savari on 21 October, features the ceremonial procession from Amba Vilas Palace towards Bannimantap.

The city takes on a festive josh during these days. Palace lights glow after sunset, traditional performances fill the calendar and the streets feel a little more regal than usual. It brings together Karnataka’s royal heritage, religious traditions and local culture, making Dasara one of Mysuru’s defining celebrations and a standout among October’s fall festivals.

For a convenient base, explore Mysuru hotels and stays.

Don’t miss:

• The illuminated Mysuru Palace after sunset
• The Jumboo Savari procession
• The Dasara exhibition
• Local food and handicraft stalls

Book transport and accommodation well ahead for the busiest days.

Durga Puja in Kolkata

17-21 October 2026Kolkata and across West Bengal

There are festivals you watch. Then there are festivals that take over an entire city.

During Durga Puja, Kolkata’s streets glow late into the night. Music fills neighbourhoods, food stalls seem to appear everywhere and beautifully designed pandals become the main attraction. The unofficial sport? Pandal hopping.

One minute you’re admiring a beautifully crafted pandal, the next you’re hunting down a plate of bhog, phuchka or a steaming roll. Add the sound of dhaak and the occasional dhunuchi naach, and Kolkata feels completely transformed.

Durga Puja Kolkata 2026 blends devotion with art, food, design and community celebrations. It is also one of the fall festivals that completely transforms its host city.

Mahalaya on 10 October sets the tone. North Kolkata’s Bagbazar and Shobhabazar offer a more traditional experience, while South Kolkata is known for elaborate contemporary pandals.

Stay close to the action with Kolkata hotels and stays.

Keep in mind:

• The busiest pandals are best explored on foot.
• Evening crowds can be enormous.
• Accommodation gets booked well in advance.
• Comfortable footwear is practically a must for pandal hopping.
• Check the final local festival calendar before travelling.

If you’ve never experienced Kolkata during Puja… October is a pretty good reason to go.

Bathukamma, Telangana

Finale on 18 October 2026Hyderabad, Warangal and across Telangana

Bathukamma brings a softer, more floral side to October’s festival calendar.

Over nine days, women create distinctive floral arrangements from seasonal blooms. Groups gather around them to sing, dance and celebrate, with Saddula Bathukamma 2026 on 18 October marking the grand finale.

The flowers are the real stars here. Arrangements are carefully stacked into colourful, tiered shapes before groups gather around them with songs and traditional dances. It is festive without feeling over-the-top… a lovely contrast to the huge Garba grounds and packed Dussehra gatherings elsewhere.

Tank Bund and other public venues in Hyderabad host celebrations, while neighbourhood events offer a more relaxed experience.

For those interested in traditional festivals in India, Bathukamma is refreshingly different from the large Garba and Dussehra celebrations elsewhere. Among the fall festivals in October, it offers one of the most distinctive cultural experiences.

Find a comfortable base through Hyderabad hotels and stays.

This is one of those festivals in October in India where simply slowing down and observing the local celebrations can be the best part.

Dussehra or Vijayadashami

20 October 2026Across India

By mid-October, the festive calendar is in full swing.

Dussehra 2026 in India falls on 20 October and marks the culmination of Navratri. Across much of North India, the evening brings Ravan Dahan, with giant effigies set alight before large crowds.

Delhi and other cities host public celebrations, while Ramlila performances lead up to the main day. For travellers exploring events in October, Dussehra offers a chance to experience one of India’s most widely observed celebrations.

There is something wonderfully old-school about the evening: neighbourhood Ramlila grounds, children waiting for the fireworks, street-side chaat and huge crowds gathering as the effigy goes up in flames.

Useful to know:

• Ramlila often runs for several evenings.
• Many public Ravan Dahan events are free.
• Large grounds can become exceptionally crowded.
• Public transport is usually easier than driving.

Bastar Dussehra, Chhattisgarh

Main Dussehra phase: 18-22 October 2026Jagdalpur

Forget the usual image of Dussehra for a moment.

Bastar’s celebration centres around Goddess Danteshwari, rather than the Ram-Ravana story. Its traditions are deeply connected to the region’s tribal communities and unfold over a much longer period.

Bastar Dussehra 2026 is a roughly 75-day celebration that begins with Pat Jatra in August. The main Dussehra phase takes place in October, with Bhitar Raini on 20 October among its important rituals.

This isn’t a festival built around flashy stages and quick photo stops. Rituals, processions, tribal traditions and the imposing wooden chariot give it a very different rhythm. One of its defining features is that Ravana is not burnt.

For travellers who prefer lesser-known Indian festivals 2026, this offers a completely different perspective on Dussehra.

Before you go:

• Jagdalpur is the main base for the celebrations.
• Chariot ceremonies are among the major highlights.
• The festival remains closely tied to local traditions.
• Accommodation is limited, so early booking is advisable.

For travellers searching for offbeat places to visit in October in India, Bastar offers an entirely different side of the season.

Kullu Dussehra, Himachal Pradesh

21-27 October 2026Kullu

When Dussehra is winding down elsewhere, Kullu is only getting started.

Kullu Dussehra 2026 begins after Vijayadashami and brings local deities to Dhalpur Maidan in decorated palanquins. Music, folk performances, processions and a large fair keep the valley busy throughout the week.

Hundreds of devta palanquins make their way through the celebrations, accompanied by traditional music and local devotees. The atmosphere is less about one grand spectacle and more about the valley coming together in full festive josh.

It is a natural highlight for anyone researching October festivals in Himachal Pradesh and one of the events in October that can easily become the centrepiece of a Himachal trip.

For a nature-focused stay, explore unique stays and villas in Kullu.

Date note: The Kullu festival begins on 21 October, one day after Vijayadashami, and runs through 27 October. Confirm the latest programme before travelling.

Jodhpur RIFF, Rajasthan

22-26 October 2026Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

Picture this: Mehrangarh Fort, the Blue City below, a pleasant October evening and live folk music playing under the Sharad Purnima moon.

That’s Jodhpur RIFF.

The Rajasthan International Folk Festival brings Rajasthani folk musicians, contemporary performers and international artists into and around Mehrangarh Fort.

Expect lok sangeet, folk instruments, contemporary collaborations and plenty of Rajasthan-style atmosphere. The setting itself does half the work… sandstone courtyards, blue city views and music carrying through the fort after sunset.

Jodhpur RIFF 2026 is a natural fit for travellers interested in music festivals in India, especially those who prefer atmosphere over conventional concert venues. It is also among the more distinctive October events in India for anyone planning a Rajasthan getaway.

Looking for October festivals in Rajasthan? Put this one on the list.

Make a weekend of it with Jodhpur hotels and stays.

Sharad Purnima, Vrindavan

25 October 2026Vrindavan and Mathura

Not every October celebration needs a massive crowd.

Sharad Purnima 2026 falls on the night of 25 October. In Vrindavan, the occasion is closely associated with Krishna’s Maha Raas. Temples hold special observances, and devotees gather for prayers, giving the town a distinctly devotional atmosphere after dark.

The mood here is very different from a Garba ground or city-wide Durga Puja. Think temple bells, evening aarti, devotional music and narrow lanes glowing softly after sunset.

If temples, evening prayers and slow travel sound more appealing than packed festival grounds, this is an easy addition to an October itinerary.

Stay nearby with Vrindavan stays or Mathura stays.

Mela! Mela! Anime Japan!!

3-4 October 2026Pacific Mall, Tagore Garden, New Delhi

Not all festivals in October are centuries old.

Mela! Mela! Anime Japan!! 2026 brings anime, Japanese culture, food and entertainment to Delhi over the Gandhi Jayanti weekend. The programme includes anime screenings, exhibitor stalls, live stage events, concerts, cosplay showcases and interactive experiences.

For travellers browsing events in October, it is a fun detour before the main festive rush begins.

Planning a Delhi weekend? Browse New Delhi hotels and stays.

If you want to see a different side of the capital, our guide to Offbeat Things to Do in Delhi has plenty of ideas beyond the usual sightseeing circuit.

Planning something more indulgent? You can also browse our guide to 30 Best 5-Star Hotels in Delhi NCR.

Concerts and Live Events in October 2026

October isn’t only about traditional celebrations. The month also brings touring artists, live gigs and music festivals across several cities.

For music lovers, these concerts in India and concerts in October add another dimension to the season. Alongside the traditional celebrations, they make October especially lively for city breaks.

Raftaar Live, TV9 Festival of India

17 October 2026 · Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi

Raftaar brings his Desi hip-hop show to Delhi as part of the TV9 Festival of India.

For anyone searching for concerts in India 2026, this is one October date to watch. Ticket prices can change, so check the latest listing before booking.

Twin Strings, Karwaan India Tour

24 October 2026 · Ansal Plaza, New Delhi

Twin Strings’ Delhi stop brings their acoustic and indie-pop sound to Ansal Plaza.

A simple addition to a Delhi weekend for anyone looking for live concerts in India rather than a huge festival ground.

Casa Bacardí Dehradun

3-4 October 2026 · The Punarnava Resort, Dehradun

Electronic and indie acts meet a resort setting at this two-day festival, making it an interesting option for a music-and-mountains weekend.

Find Dehradun hotels and stays or explore unique stays and villas in Dehradun.

Indian Ocean Live

10 October 2026, Indore | 17 October 2026, Mumbai

Indian Ocean brings its distinctive fusion-rock sound to Indore and Mumbai.

For travellers browsing October concerts in India, either performance can be folded into a short city break. Find Indore stays or Mumbai stays.

Heading to Mumbai? Before you plan your itinerary, check out Best Places to Visit in Mumbai for ideas on what to see, eat and explore.

If you’re after a more indulgent stay, our guide to Luxury Hotels in Mumbai covers some of the city’s top five-star options.

Event note: Concert schedules and ticket availability can change, so verify the latest listing before making travel plans around a particular show.

Where to Stay During Festival Season

Festival travel is exciting… until the celebrations finish and you’re stuck in traffic for an hour.

A well-located stay can make a real difference during late-night Garba, Kolkata’s pandal hopping or an evening at Mehrangarh Fort.

For travellers planning October holidays in India, accommodation should be booked almost as early as the festival itself. Popular destinations can fill quickly around Navratri and Durga Puja.

From handpicked hotels and resorts by Solis Nature to unique stays and villas, there are plenty of ways to build a comfortable October escape around these celebrations.

Planning Your October Festival Trip

The busiest stretch falls roughly between 11 and 27 October 2026, when several major celebrations overlap.

For anyone wondering where to travel in October in India, start with the festival that interests you most and plan around it. Gujarat works for Navratri, Kolkata for Durga Puja, Mysuru for Dasara, while Jodhpur and Kullu bring very different experiences later in the month.

These are also some of the best destinations in India in October if you want your holiday to revolve around an experience rather than simply ticking off attractions.

With so many events in October happening within a few weeks, it helps to build the trip around one or two celebrations rather than trying to cover everything.

Before you book:

• Reserve early. Festival-city hotels can fill rapidly.
• Check dates again. Regional festival calendars can change.
• Expect crowds. Processions and public venues get busy.
• Allow extra travel time. Traffic can be unpredictable.
• Stay nearby. It helps after late-night celebrations.
• Keep some breathing room. Don’t squeeze too many festivals into one trip.

If you’re planning October trips in India, leave some flexibility in your schedule. Festival days rarely go exactly to plan… and sometimes that’s where the best moments happen.

And if you’re considering destinations beyond India, take a look at our guide to 20 Best Places to Visit in October Around the World for more October travel inspiration.

October in India is loud, colourful, crowded, musical and occasionally gloriously chaotic. That is precisely what makes these fall festivals so memorable.

One night you’re learning Garba steps in Gujarat. Another, you’re wandering through a Kolkata pandal. A few days later, you’re listening to folk musicians inside a Jodhpur fort under a full moon.

For travellers searching for the best October getaways in India, there is no shortage of possibilities. Pick a celebration that feels like your kind of trip, leave some room for spontaneity, and let October take it from there…

FAQs

1. What are the major festivals and events in October 2026 in India?

October 2026 has a packed calendar of cultural celebrations, religious festivals, folk events and live music. Some of the major highlights include Navratri and Garba in Gujarat, Mysuru Dasara, Durga Puja in Kolkata, Bathukamma in Telangana, Dussehra, Bastar Dussehra, Kullu Dussehra, Jodhpur RIFF and Sharad Purnima. The month also brings concerts and contemporary events across cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Indore and Dehradun.

2. Where can I book tickets for Navratri and Garba events in Gujarat?

Ticketed Garba events in Ahmedabad and other cities can be booked through platforms such as BookMyShow and individual event organisers’ official booking pages. BookMyShow lists multiple Garba events in Ahmedabad, including large-scale celebrations and ticketed venues.

Since different Garba events have separate organisers, check the individual event page for the exact date, venue, entry rules, passes and availability before booking.

3. Where can I buy tickets for Mysuru Dasara 2026?

Mysuru Dasara tickets can be booked through the official Mysuru Dasara ticketing page, which lists TicketGenie as the official and authorised ticketing partner.

Ticketed experiences include options such as the Gold Card, Jumboo Savari seating, the Torchlight Parade and the Drone Show. Several other Dasara activities, including the Palace illumination and public celebrations, can be enjoyed without a ticket.

4. Where can I book tickets for Jodhpur RIFF 2026?

Jodhpur RIFF tickets and festival passes can be booked through the official Jodhpur RIFF website. The festival takes place at Mehrangarh Fort from 22–26 October 2026.

The festival offers different passes and ticketed experiences, while selected events may have separate entry arrangements. Check the official website for the latest programme, ticket categories and availability before travelling.

5. Where can I book tickets for concerts in October 2026?

Several concerts in October 2026 are available through established ticketing platforms such as BookMyShow.

For example, Raftaar Live at the TV9 Festival of India in Delhi is listed on BookMyShow Raftaar Live Concert.

Indian Ocean’s October performances can also be booked online. Tickets for the 10 October 2026 Indore show are available through BookMyShow Indore Show, while the 17 October 2026 Mumbai show is listed on BookMyShow Mumbai Show.

Ticket prices and availability can change, so always check the individual event page before booking.

6. Are all the festivals and events in October ticketed?

No. Many traditional festivals can be experienced through public celebrations, processions, community events and open-access venues without buying tickets.

However, specific experiences may require paid entry. For example, selected Mysuru Dasara programmes and premium Garba events are ticketed, while many public celebrations remain free. Mela! Mela! Anime Japan!! 2026 in New Delhi is listed as a free-entry event, although certain individual activities may have separate charges.

It is always worth checking the official event website or ticketing platform before visiting, especially for large festivals where entry rules can vary by venue.