Are you ready to immerse yourself in the colorful and vibrant celebration of Ganga Dussehra in Uttarakhand? This festival is a unique experience that you definitely don't want to miss. Get ready to witness the powerful and divine presence of the holy river Ganga as it flows through the beautiful hills of Uttarakhand.
Ganga Dussehra, also known as Gangavataran, is a Hindu festival celebrated during the Hindu month of Jyeshtha (May-June), for 10 days and is dedicated to Goddess Ganga, who is believed to have descended on Earth on this day.
The festival is celebrated by taking a dip in the holy river Ganges and offering prayers to the goddess. The devotees believe that taking a dip in the river on this auspicious day will cleanse them of their sins and grant them blessings from the goddess.
The festival is also marked by processions, religious ceremonies, and cultural programs. The town of Haridwar, which is considered to be one of the seven holiest places for Hindus, is a major hub for the celebration of Ganga Dussehra. Thousands of devotees from all over the country flock to Haridwar during this time to take part in the festivities.
Dates: 29th May – 30th May 2023
During the festival, the entire town of Haridwar comes alive with vibrant colors, music, and dance. The streets are decorated with lights and flowers, and the shops and markets are filled with people buying offerings for the goddess. The festival also features a grand aarti (prayer) ceremony, where thousands of devotees gather on the banks of the river to offer prayers to the goddess.
Apart from Haridwar, the festival is also celebrated in other parts of Uttarakhand, including Rishikesh and Devprayag.
In Rishikesh, the festival is celebrated with a special procession known as Ganga Aarti, where devotees carry idols of the goddess and offer prayers on the banks of the river.
Overall, Ganga Dussehra is a unique and vibrant festival that celebrates Goddess Ganga and her presence on Earth. It is a must-see festival for anyone interested in experiencing the rich and colorful culture of India.
Think we missed out on something? Tell us about it in the comments below. Or write about it here on Tripoto and earn Tripoto Credits!
Be a part of the largest online community of travellers on Tripoto’s Pinterest.