Mount Abu Winter Festival: A Great Way To Welcome the New Year

Mount Abu is a beautiful oasis in the dry desert state of Rajasthan. This sleepy hill station comes alive during the Winter Festival held in December every year. The much-talked-about event is a rare combination of cultural vibrancy, stunning handicrafts and delicious food against a scenic backdrop. Here are five cogent reasons to coax you into going:

Say ‘Khamma Ghani’ to the New Year

Goa is crowded, Delhi is loud, Kerala is expensive and the list goes on. So, where does one go to celebrate the New Year? Held in the beautiful setting of Mount Abu from December 29-31, the Winter Festival packs in the punch of the varied flavours Rajasthan is famous for. Already a hit with the tourists, this three-day extravaganza salutes the rich culture and tradition of the princely state. Satiate your desire to experience the magic of folk singers first hand on a cold winter night while your eyes feast upon the liveliness of the Ghoomar, Gair, Dhap and Kalbelia dance forms.

Read more: 5 Hotels in Mount Abu for that Perfect Getaway

A Mixed Bag of Fun

Organized jointly by the municipal board of Mount Abu and Rajasthan Tourism board, the Winter Festival is an endeavour to bring together craftsmen and performers from every corner of the state. But that is only the tip of the iceberg. This carnival is also known for its sporting and entertainment events like gilli danda, 20-20 cricket, kite flying, rowing and poetry reading sessions. You can enjoy cultural programs, shop for authentic handicrafts and eat lip-smacking Rajasthani food, all in one place!

Tip: Don’t miss the musical performance by the Army band and the hot air balloon ride.

Let the Fireworks Begin...

A grand procession, charged by local talent, is organised to mark the beginning of the Winter Festival. It originates from Hotel Shikhar and culminates at the Nakki Lake Chowk towards the evening where hundreds of diyas (earthen lamps) are set afloat in the water as a form of reverence. Called deepdaan, this mesmerising sight makes for a visual treat and a photographer’s delight. Each evening, the fireworks stun and inspire with their brilliance in the background of the serene lake and towering mountains.

Accessible & Budget-Friendly

It is no secret that around New Year, the cost of travel and stay rises exponentially. Plus not all of us plan that much in advance. Then what’s the quick fix solution? Head to Mount Abu, simple! Accessible by both road and rail, it can be easily reached from New Delhi, Ahmedabad, Jaipur and Mumbai. Self-drive is also a good idea as the roads are well-maintained. Add to this that both accommodation and food in Mount Abu are quite affordable so, you are sorted!

Read more: 5 Luxury Hotels in Udaipur Where You Can Live like a Royal!

The Fringe Benefits!

Did I mention there is more to Mount Abu than just the Winter Festival? Choose to stay here for a bit and you shall not regret your decision. This Alpine rich destination is also brimming with great examples of natural abundance, culture, history and architecture. Visit the amazing, 9 centuries old Dilwara Temples and be charmed for life. You can also witness serene quietude of the Brahma Kumaris Spiritual University and Museum. Animal lovers can head to the wildlife sanctuary housing the likes of wild boars, bears, langurs,  hyenas and more.

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