The Best Music Festivals in India Worth Traveling For

Set under the open skies of the Rajasthan desert within the grounds of the Mehrangarh Fort, one of the country’s most majestic and historic forts, Jodhpur RIFF is a cultural celebration unlike any other. Primarily featuring indigenous folk musicians and dancers of Rajasthan, along with various renowned Hindustani, Carnatic, and Sufi musicians, this is a fantastic platform for lovers of music, travel, and culture.

With Arunachal Pradesh’s stunning Ziro Valley as the location, this popular music festival consistently features rich lineups of established and emerging electronic, rock and indie musicians from across the globe every September. Surrounded by paddy fields, distant snow-capped peaks, and lush forests, Ziro is an incredibly refreshing experience you shouldn’t miss.

Held in Sula’s lush vineyards in Nashik, this music, wine, and food festival is among your finest options if you’re looking for an energizing weekend getaway in February. From wine tastings and fantastic food bazaars to a rich lineup of independent, established and emerging artists from across genres and the globe, SulaFest is well equipped to make your festival experience special.

Set within the 17th-century Alsisar Mahal in Shekhawati, Rajasthan, Magnetic Fields is one of the most anticipated annual celebrations of the country’s music scene. The multi-genre music and arts festival is particularly famous for its rich, local electronic artist lineup.

Sunburn hosts Asia’s largest three-day electronic music festival every late December, usually in Vagator, Goa, though the 2016 edition took place in the equally impressive Kesnand Hills of Pune. With dynamic crowds, exciting artist lineups and stunning locations, Sunburn’s grand event is a perfect option if you are looking to combine music, dance, travel, and a memorable NYE experience.

A fundraising drive by the Genesis Foundation to aid underprivileged children with heart disorders in need of surgery or treatment – Kasauli R&B Festival is one you will not regret being a part of. Surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of Himachal Pradesh, pristine Kasauli is the perfect location for you to immerse yourself completely in your favorite rock, jazz, blues and other tunes.

From techno to Bollywood, this multi-genre festival held in Aamby Valley City has something to offer everyone. Located about 120 kilometers (74.5 miles) from Mumbai and surrounded by the scenic mountains of the Sahyadri range, the stunning Aamby Valley is India’s first planned hill city and a uniquely exciting spot for an immersive music experience.