1. Ladakh Marathon
The Ladakh Marathon is one of the highest-altitude marathons in the world, offering participants a chance to run amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Indian Himalayas. Held annually in Leh, Ladakh, this event is a test of physical endurance and mental strength, as participants navigate through challenging terrains and thin mountain air at altitudes ranging from 11,500 to 17,618 feet above sea level. It consists of six races that cover Leh, Choglamsar village and Khardung village.
When: 2 - 9 September, 2025
Where: In and around Leh
Website: www.ladakhmarathon.com
2. Ladakh Festival
Ladakh Festival (Source)
Organized by the J&K Tourism Department, The Ladakh festival is an annual fiesta celebrating the traditions and heritage of Ladakh. This year it is a weeklong extravaganza in various villages including processions, lion dances, yak dances, and sports including archery, rafting, and polo. Is something still missing? Oh, the food. Some mouth-watering local delicacies to go along with the wonderful musical performances.
When: TBA, 2025
Where: Ladakh
3. Ziro Festival of Music
India’s most fun outdoor music festival, Ziro Festival of Music showcases the most talented musicians in the North-East. The festival takes place not far from Itanagar in the Ziro Valley, over 5500 feet above sea level surrounded from all sides by majestic misty mountains. The festival also aims to boost tourism and local music in the beautiful state. Follow their website for updates regarding artists' line-ups and tickets.
When: September 26th-29th, 2025
Where: Arunachal Pradesh
Website: zirofestival.com
4. Ramnagar Ramlila
The world’s oldest Ramlila takes place at Ramnagar for over a month every year (Source)
Ramnagar, on the banks of the Ganga, opposite Varanasi, was the capital of the former princely state of Banaras. It is now best known for its nearly 200-year-old Ramlila, the longest in the world. Started in 1830 by then-ruler Kashi Maharaja Udit Narayan, Ramnagar Ramlila is a colorful spectacle that blends local tradition and mythology. The Lila is a giant mela, the streets are lined with chaat wallahs, and people drink hot sweet tea or chew Banarasi paan. There’s also heavenly Ramnagar lassi, with crunchy sugar topped with a thick layer of rabri. The lila ends with an artist.
When: October 3rd–12th, 2025
Where: Ramnagar, 15 km from Varanasi
5. Onam
Floral carpets called as Pookalam are a tradition during Onam (Source)
Onam, the state festival of Kerala, is a ten day long festival- Atham is the first day and Thiruvonam is the final day of the celebrations, being the most important days. Kerala comes out in its best form and spirit during the ten day long harvest festival. Traditional rituals, lavish feasts, spectacular carnivals of elephants, fireworks, boat races, music and folk dance performances like Kathakali and Pulikali (Tiger dance) are all commonly associated with the festival. During Onam ‘Tourism Week’ is held by the State Government, showcasing Kerala’s beauty and culture.
When: August 26 - September 5, 2025
Where: Kerala
6. Navratri
Navratri is a nine-day Hindu festival celebrating Goddess Durga. Gujarat is famous for its Garba and Dandiya Raas nights, while Kolkata's elaborate pandals and idol immersion rituals captivate visitors. Book your stay early in cities like Ahmedabad or Kolkata. Dress in traditional attire to join the dances or visit pandals.
When: Starts September 22, 2025
Where: India (notably Gujarat, Maharashtra, and West Bengal)
Festivals in September: Outside India
7. Oktoberfest
The world's largest beer festival, featuring traditional Bavarian music, food, and cultural events. Book accommodations well in advance. Visit various beer tents and enjoy traditional German cuisine. The entry to the fest grounds is free but you would have to book tents early, for a charge that varies from tent to tent.
When: September 20 – October 5, 2025
Where: Theresienwiese, Munich, Germany
8. Autumn Harvest Moon Festival (Mid-Autumn Festival)
Celebrated during the full moon closest to the autumn equinox, the festival features lantern displays, mooncake feasts, and family gatherings. Lantern-lit parades and cultural performances dominate the evening festivities. Visit Hanoi, Taipei, or Hong Kong for grand celebrations. Don’t miss trying traditional mooncakes or joining tea ceremonies.
When: October 6, 2025
Where: East and Southeast Asia (China, Vietnam, Taiwan, Singapore, and Malaysia)
9. Nepal Tourism Year Festivals (Indra Jatra)
Indra Jatra, celebrated in Kathmandu Durbar Square, honors Indra, the God of Rain. The event includes colorful masked dances, chariot processions, and rituals to thank the deity for a bountiful harvest. Participate in the Kumari (living goddess) procession. Opt for guided tours to understand the cultural significance.
When: September 15–24, 2025
Where: Kathmandu, Nepal