The Mewar Festival is Udaipur's spring celebration of Gangaur, held in March or April around Chaitra Shukla Tritiya. Women in bright clothes carry images of Gauri (Parvati) in procession to Gangaur Ghat on Lake Pichola, followed by boat processions, folk music, dance and fireworks. Most events are free.
Key facts
- When: March–April, timed to the Gangaur festival
- Where: Gangaur Ghat and Lake Pichola
- What: processions, boat parade, folk performances, fireworks
- Most events are free and open to all
For a few days each spring, the ghats of Lake Pichola fill with colour, music and lamps.
What is Gangaur?
Gangaur honours Gauri, the goddess Parvati, and her union with Shiva. Married women pray for their husbands; unmarried women for a good match. They fast, sing and carry painted clay images of Gauri. Read more in our story on Gangaur.
The Mewar Festival
In Udaipur, Gangaur becomes the Mewar Festival:
- Processions wind through the old city to Gangaur Ghat.
- Women in their best saris and jewellery carry Gauri on their heads.
- A boat procession crosses Lake Pichola.
- Evenings bring folk music and dance, and fireworks over the lake.
When
Around Chaitra Shukla Tritiya on the Hindu calendar, usually in March or April. Check our festival calendar.
Tips
- Arrive early to get a spot on the ghats.
- Book a room or rooftop table with a lake view well ahead.
- Ask before photographing women in the procession.
- Mind your belongings in the crowd.
See also 7 festivals of Mewar and Udaipur’s festival calendar.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Mewar Festival?
It follows the Hindu calendar, around Gangaur in March or April. Dates change every year.
Where is the best place to watch?
Gangaur Ghat and the ghats nearby, or a rooftop overlooking Lake Pichola. Arrive early.
Is the Mewar Festival only for women?
The Gangaur rituals are led by women, but everyone can watch the processions and shows.
