November is one of the best months to experience Rajasthan beyond its famous forts and palaces. The weather becomes more comfortable, desert towns come alive with traditional fairs, and colourful celebrations bring local music, crafts and centuries-old customs into the streets.

However, not every Rajasthan festival offers the same experience.

The Pushkar Camel Fair is famous for livestock trading, folk performances and photography. Meanwhile, Bundi Utsav celebrates heritage and traditional arts, while Kolayat Fair offers a more spiritual experience around its sacred lake.

In November 2026, five major cultural fairs and festivals are scheduled across Rajasthan, beginning with Pushkar on November 17 and continuing through the end of the month.

This guide covers the best Rajasthan festivals in November 2026, including verified dates, locations, what to expect, how long to stay and practical travel advice.

If you are planning a longer holiday, also explore our guide to the best places to visit in Rajasthan in November to combine festival experiences with historic cities.

Rajasthan Festivals in November 2026: Dates and Locations

 Dates are based on Rajasthan Tourism’s 2026 festival calendar. Daily programmes may change, so reconfirm with local organisers before travelling.

1. Pushkar Camel Fair

Dates: 17–24 November 2026
Location: Pushkar, near Ajmer, Rajasthan

The Pushkar Camel Fair is undoubtedly one of the most famous cultural festivals in Rajasthan.

Every November, the usually peaceful desert town of Pushkar becomes a lively meeting point for livestock traders, pilgrims, performers, photographers and travellers.

Camels decorated with colourful fabrics, traditional turbans, folk music and bustling market stalls give the fair its distinctive atmosphere.

However, Pushkar is more than an animal fair. The town is also an important Hindu pilgrimage destination, especially around Kartik Purnima.

What Makes Pushkar Fair Special?

Camel and livestock trading

Traditional livestock trading remains an important part of the fair. Visitors may see decorated camels, horses and cattle, although the number of animals and trading activity varies each year.

Traditional competitions

The programme typically includes cultural competitions, traditional sports and entertainment. These may feature turban tying, moustache competitions and other local activities.

Folk music and performances

Rajasthani musicians, dancers and performers add another dimension to the celebration.

Spiritual ceremonies

Meanwhile, pilgrims visit Pushkar Lake and the Brahma Temple for prayers and religious rituals.

Best Time to Experience Pushkar Fair

For travellers mainly interested in rural traditions and livestock, it is worth spending time at the fairgrounds during the active trading period.

However, those interested in religious celebrations may prefer dates closer to Kartik Purnima.

Because daily programmes can vary, check the organiser’s schedule rather than assuming every activity happens throughout the eight-day fair.

How Long Should You Stay?

Plan 2–3 nights in Pushkar.

This allows you to explore the fair, visit the sacred lake, walk around the town and enjoy quieter moments outside the busiest festival hours.

Accommodation becomes highly sought after during the fair. Therefore, reserve your hotel early.

For a more detailed planning guide, see our Pushkar Camel Fair 2026 dates and visitor guide.

Travellers combining the festival with Rajasthan’s royal cities can also explore our 12-day Rajasthan tour covering Jaipur, Pushkar, Jodhpur and Udaipur.

2. Chandrabhaga Fair

Dates: 23–25 November 2026
Location: Jhalrapatan, Jhalawar, Rajasthan

Unlike Pushkar, the Chandrabhaga Fair remains relatively unfamiliar to many international travellers.

However, it offers a fascinating introduction to rural Rajasthan’s religious traditions and agricultural culture.

Held near the Chandrabhaga River in Jhalrapatan, the event brings together pilgrims, villagers, livestock traders and traditional performers.

The river holds religious significance, and devotees gather for ceremonial bathing and prayers.

What to Expect at Chandrabhaga Fair

Religious rituals

Pilgrims gather around the river, especially during the sacred Kartik period.

Traditional cattle market

Livestock trading forms an important part of the celebrations. As a result, the fair provides an opportunity to observe everyday rural traditions.

Folk performances

Visitors may encounter regional music, dances and community celebrations.

Local markets

Temporary stalls sell practical goods, traditional products and items associated with the festival.

Why Visit in November?

November offers relatively comfortable conditions for walking around the fairgrounds and exploring Jhalawar’s historic surroundings.

Moreover, the celebration feels more locally rooted than some of Rajasthan’s better-known tourist festivals.

Where to Stay

Jhalawar or Jhalrapatan is the most practical base.

However, accommodation choices are more limited than in Jaipur or Udaipur. Therefore, organise transport and lodging in advance.

Plan one or two nights if you want to explore the festival and nearby heritage sites without rushing.

3. Matsya Festival in Alwar

Dates: 25–26 November 2026
Location: Alwar, Rajasthan

The Matsya Festival celebrates the heritage, traditions and cultural identity of the Alwar region.

Although the celebration lasts only two days, it offers a variety of performances and community activities.

Moreover, Alwar’s location between Delhi and Jaipur makes it particularly convenient for travellers who want a Rajasthan festival experience without travelling deep into the desert.

What Can You Experience?

Traditional performances

The festival showcases regional music, folk dance and cultural presentations.

Local arts and crafts

Visitors can discover traditional crafts and regional artistic styles.

Cultural competitions

Depending on the annual programme, activities may include competitions, heritage events and community performances.

Local cuisine

You can also sample regional food, including Alwar’s well-known milk-based sweets.

What Else Can You See in Alwar?

Alwar offers several attractions beyond the festival.

Consider visiting Alwar City Palace, Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri and the surrounding historic neighbourhoods.

Additionally, travellers interested in nature can consider Sariska, subject to the time available and current safari arrangements.

How Long Should You Stay?

Two nights are sufficient for most visitors.

If you are travelling from Delhi, however, you can also combine Alwar with Jaipur in a longer cultural itinerary.

For practical destination advice, see our first-time Rajasthan travel tips.

4. Kolayat Fair

Dates: 27–28 November 2026
Location: Kolayat, near Bikaner, Rajasthan

Kolayat Fair, also known as the Kapil Muni Fair, is one of Rajasthan’s most meaningful traditional religious gatherings.

The celebration takes place around the sacred Kolayat Lake, near Bikaner.

Unlike the busy performance-focused atmosphere of Pushkar, Kolayat places greater emphasis on pilgrimage, devotional traditions and local community life.

What Happens at Kolayat Fair?

Pilgrimage and prayers

Devotees gather at the lake to perform religious rituals and seek blessings.

Traditional celebrations

Local communities participate in religious and cultural activities connected with the fair.

Lakefront atmosphere

The ghats and surroundings create an attractive setting for observing the celebrations respectfully.

Local stalls and gatherings

Temporary markets and stalls add to the atmosphere, particularly around the main festival period.

Is Kolayat Fair Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially for travellers interested in Rajasthan’s spiritual traditions and lesser-known destinations.

However, it is important to approach the occasion as a religious event rather than simply a photography opportunity.

Ask permission before photographing pilgrims, particularly during prayers or bathing rituals.

Where Should You Stay?

Bikaner is generally the most convenient base because it has a wider choice of hotels and transport services.

Furthermore, you can combine the fair with Junagarh Fort, local markets and Bikaner’s heritage sites.

For additional sightseeing ideas, read our guide to the best places to visit in Bikaner.

Travellers who want to connect Kolayat with Jaipur, Pushkar and Udaipur can consider our 8-day Jaipur, Bikaner, Pushkar and Udaipur tour. Festival attendance would need to be fitted around the actual dates.

5. Bundi Utsav

Dates: 27–29 November 2026
Location: Bundi, Rajasthan

Bundi is one of Rajasthan’s most charming heritage towns, yet it receives far fewer international visitors than Jaipur or Udaipur.

During Bundi Utsav, however, its historic streets become the setting for colourful processions, performances and traditional cultural activities.

The festival celebrates the region’s art, craftsmanship, music and customs.

Moreover, its relatively compact setting makes it an appealing alternative to Rajasthan’s larger and busier festivals.

Main Attractions of Bundi Utsav

Traditional processions

Colourful processions, often called Shobha Yatra, are among the festival’s defining features.

Folk music and dance

Visitors can enjoy regional performances and cultural presentations.

Traditional competitions

Turban-tying events and other cultural competitions may form part of the programme.

Handicrafts and exhibitions

The festival also provides opportunities to discover regional art, textiles and crafts.

Explore Bundi Beyond the Festival

Bundi deserves at least one day of sightseeing beyond the celebrations.

Start with Bundi Palace and Taragarh Fort. Afterwards, explore Raniji Ki Baori, the old town and other stepwells.

Additionally, the town’s traditional houses and quieter streets make it particularly appealing for photography.

How Long Should You Stay?

Plan 2–3 nights to enjoy both Bundi Utsav and the town’s heritage attractions.

Because accommodation is more limited than in Rajasthan’s larger cities, advance booking is useful.

Bundi can also be added to a customised Rajasthan tour itinerary that includes Jaipur, Kota or Udaipur.

Which Rajasthan Festival Should You Visit in November?

The best festival depends on the kind of experience you want.

If this is your first trip to Rajasthan, Pushkar is the strongest overall choice because it combines an internationally recognised festival with a well-established tourism infrastructure.

However, travellers seeking a quieter, more traditional experience may prefer Bundi, Chandrabhaga or Kolayat.

Can You Visit Several Rajasthan Festivals in One Trip?

Yes, although distances between Rajasthan’s festival destinations are considerable.

Furthermore, several events overlap towards the end of November.

Therefore, choose two or three rather than trying to cover all five in a rushed journey.

Route 1: Jaipur, Pushkar and Bundi

Best for: First-time visitors and cultural sightseeing

Spend time exploring Jaipur before continuing to Pushkar for the Camel Fair.

Afterwards, travel towards Bundi and explore its palaces and historic streets.

If you are staying through the final days of November, you can also experience Bundi Utsav.

Allow approximately 7–9 days for a comfortable journey, depending on your arrival and departure points.

Route 2: Jaipur, Bikaner and Pushkar

Best for: Desert heritage, pilgrimage and local traditions

This route combines Jaipur’s royal architecture with Bikaner’s forts and Pushkar’s sacred atmosphere.

However, the 2026 fair dates require careful planning because Pushkar ends on November 24, while Kolayat is scheduled for November 27–28.

Therefore, allow additional time in Bikaner between the two festivals.

For a suitable starting route, explore the 8-day Jaipur, Bikaner, Pushkar and Udaipur itinerary, which can be customised around your festival dates.

Route 3: Delhi, Alwar and Jaipur

Best for: A shorter Rajasthan holiday

Begin in Delhi and travel towards Alwar during the Matsya Festival.

Afterwards, continue to Jaipur for its forts, palaces, markets and traditional food.

Allow around 4–5 days, with additional time if you wish to include Agra.

For more options, see our India tour packages for November.

What to Wear to Rajasthan Festivals in November:

November is generally comfortable for sightseeing across Rajasthan.

However, evenings and early mornings can become cool, particularly in desert regions.

Therefore, pack clothing suitable for warm afternoons and cooler evenings.

Clothing Essentials

Bring breathable shirts, comfortable trousers, a light jacket and a scarf or shawl.

Modest clothing is particularly appropriate around temples and sacred lakes.

Comfortable Footwear

Festival grounds often require considerable walking.

Therefore, choose comfortable shoes rather than new footwear that might cause discomfort.

Sun Protection

Even during November, afternoon sunshine can be strong.

Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and drinking water.

Evening Layers

A light sweater or jacket is useful for outdoor performances and early morning photography.

Practical Tips for Rajasthan Festival Travel:

Book Accommodation in Advance

Pushkar becomes particularly busy during the Camel Fair.

Likewise, smaller destinations such as Bundi and Jhalawar have a limited choice of accommodation.

Therefore, confirm hotels before arranging the rest of your itinerary.

Check the Daily Festival Programme

Festival dates do not necessarily mean every activity happens every day.

For example, competitions, processions, religious ceremonies and cultural performances may take place at different times.

Consequently, check the local programme before deciding how long to stay.

Allow Extra Time for Road Travel

Traffic can increase around festival grounds, especially during main celebrations.

Furthermore, journeys between Rajasthan’s cities may take longer than the map suggests.

Avoid scheduling several major events on the same day.

Carry Some Cash

Digital payments are widely accepted in India.

However, smaller market stalls and local vendors may prefer cash, particularly at rural fairs.

Respect Religious Traditions

Some celebrations include sacred bathing, temple rituals and community prayers.

Therefore, dress appropriately, observe local customs and ask permission before photographing individuals.

Choose Ethical Animal Experiences

Camels and other livestock are important parts of some Rajasthan fairs.

However, animal welfare should remain a priority.

Avoid activities involving visibly distressed animals, and do not pressure handlers or animals for photographs.

Is November a Good Time to Visit Rajasthan?

Yes. November is one of the most comfortable months for exploring Rajasthan.

After the intense heat of summer and the monsoon period, daytime temperatures generally become more pleasant for sightseeing.

As a result, visiting forts, walking through bazaars and attending outdoor festivals becomes easier.

However, November is also part of Rajasthan’s busy travel season.

Popular destinations such as Jaipur, Pushkar, Jodhpur and Udaipur can attract large numbers of visitors.

Therefore, book major travel arrangements early, especially if your dates coincide with Pushkar Fair.

For more destination ideas, see our 10 best places to visit in Rajasthan in November.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rajasthan Festivals in November

What are the main festivals in Rajasthan in November 2026?

The five major events covered in Rajasthan Tourism’s November calendar are Pushkar Camel Fair, Chandrabhaga Fair, Matsya Festival, Kolayat Fair and Bundi Utsav. The month also includes religious observances and local community celebrations.

When is Pushkar Camel Fair in 2026?

The official dates are 17–24 November 2026. However, the timing of individual competitions and cultural activities can vary during the fair.

Which Rajasthan festival is best for tourists?

Pushkar Camel Fair is generally the most accessible choice for first-time international visitors. It combines rural traditions, cultural performances, pilgrimage activities and a good selection of hotels.

When is Bundi Utsav in 2026?

Bundi Utsav is scheduled for 27–29 November 2026. It is known for traditional processions, folk music, cultural competitions and handicrafts.

What is Chandrabhaga Fair famous for?

Chandrabhaga Fair is known for its sacred river rituals, rural livestock trading, folk culture and traditional celebrations around Jhalrapatan in the Jhalawar region.

When is Matsya Festival in Alwar?

The Matsya Festival is scheduled for 25–26 November 2026. It showcases the cultural traditions and heritage of the Alwar region.

When is Kolayat Fair in 2026?

Rajasthan Tourism’s 2026 event listing currently schedules Kolayat Fair for 27–28 November. Since it is associated with religious observances, confirm the local programme before travelling.

Can I visit Pushkar Fair and Bundi Utsav on the same trip?

Yes. Pushkar Fair finishes on November 24, while Bundi Utsav begins on November 27. Therefore, you can combine both with sightseeing in Jaipur or another destination between the festivals.

How many days should I spend at Pushkar Fair?

Two or three nights are usually ideal. This allows enough time for the fairgrounds, Pushkar Lake, Brahma Temple and local sightseeing without rushing.

Is Rajasthan expensive during the November festivals?

Accommodation can become more expensive during popular festivals, particularly in Pushkar. However, prices vary significantly by hotel category, destination and booking date.

What should I wear to Rajasthan festivals?

Comfortable, modest clothing is suitable for most celebrations. Bring a light jacket for cooler evenings, walking shoes, sunscreen and a scarf or shawl for religious sites.

Which festival is best for photography in Rajasthan?

Pushkar Camel Fair offers colourful rural scenes and traditional activities. Meanwhile, Bundi Utsav provides opportunities to photograph folk performances and historic town architecture. Always ask before photographing people in private or religious settings.

Final Thoughts

November is one of the most rewarding months to discover Rajasthan through its living traditions.

The Pushkar Camel Fair offers grand cultural celebrations, traditional markets and colourful desert scenes. Meanwhile, Chandrabhaga and Kolayat provide an introduction to rural customs and pilgrimage traditions.

For travellers interested in music, arts and heritage towns, Matsya Festival and Bundi Utsav are equally worthwhile.

Most importantly, choose the festival that matches your travel interests and allow enough time to enjoy the surrounding destination.

A well-planned Rajasthan journey can combine these celebrations with Jaipur’s palaces, Pushkar’s sacred lake, Bikaner’s historic streets and Bundi’s beautiful old town.

For a personalised route, explore our Rajasthan tour packages and plan your dates around the celebrations you most want to experience.