5 Events in July That Will Give You Major Travel Goals

The extraordinary cultural and religious diversity of India contributes to myriad festivals and events throughout the year. There are always enough reasons to get together and celebrate. Be it the peak of summers, the chilly winter season or the heavy monsoon rains, festivals in India are always celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm. Here is a list of festivals and events in July that you should definitely travel for:

 

1. Puri Rath Yatra

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This five thousand year old festival in Puri is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra. Be a part of this celebration and witness the journey of these deities from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, considered to be their aunt's house. Preparations for this yatra start well in advance, with new chariots built and decorated every year. Also known as the Chariot festival, the Puri Rath Yatra starts when the three deities in their specific chariots drawn by devotees are brought out in the open and taken to the Gundicha Temple. After a stay of nine days here, they are then brought back to the Jagannath Temple amidst great enthusiasm and festivities. Owing to the popularity of this festival, both tourists and locals throng the streets of Puri, to worship and seek the blessings of the deities.

When: 6th to 15th July, 2016

Where: Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha

 

2. Royal Enfield Himalayan Odyssey

 

Adventure lovers, this is something you cannot miss! The 13th edition of the Himalayan Odyssey promises to be an epic journey through some of the highest roads and roughest terrains. This 17 day road trip to the Himalayas will be flagged off from New Delhi on 9th July 2016 and will see riders travel over 2200 kms through the diverse landscapes of Manali, Sarchu, Leh, Narkanda, up to Khardung-La. What’s more, Royal Enfield has introduced its maiden Himalayan Odyssey Women's Edition this year! Register now to be a part of this memorable experience!

When: 8th to 23rd July, 2016

Where: Delhi to Leh and back

3. Aanayoottu Elephant Feeding Ritual

Elephants are part of a number of ritual ceremonies in Kerala. One such ceremony called Aanayoottu involves the feeding and worshipping of elephants, in order to please the elephant God, Lord Ganesha. During this festival, elephants lined up on the temple premises are fed a delicious feast of sugarcane leaves, coconut and jaggery. Held in July, this festival is quite popular and is attended by a multitude of people, especially Ganesha devotees. 

When: 22nd July 2016

Where: Njangattiri Bhagavathi Temple, Pattambi, Palakkad district, Kerala

4. Breakfast With Pets Event

 

For Mumbaikars, especially pet parents and pet lovers, here’s an event which will surely make you want to spend the weekend in Pune. Organized by Cafe Two's and Four's, this event promises a perfect Sunday morning breakfast with pets. It offers a simple buffet menu for humans and an option of rice with egg or chicken broth for the dogs. In addition to good food, this event features fun games and activities for you and your four legged friend, and is a great way to socialize with other pets and pet parents. Also, the cafe's photo booth and funky placards make for great photo opportunities. Register now for an ideal Sunday morning with your pooch!

When: Third week of July

Where: Cafe Two's and Four's, Veerbhadra Nagar, Baner, Pune

5. Karsha Gustor Festival

This festival is held at the Karsha Monastery, the largest monastery in Ladakh, home to over 100 lamas. It celebrates the victory of good over evil, and is sure to mesmerize you with its lively colors, music and dances. The main highlight of the Karsha Gustor Festival is the Black Hat masked dance performance by the monks. Do plan your Ladakh trip around this two-day festival in July, for a close experience of the culture of this beautiful region.

When: 31st July to 1st August, 2016

Where: Karsha Monastery, Zanskar, Ladakh