How to plan a trip around a festival

By the Nexara Holidays travel desk · 2 min read

Festivals can be the highlight of a trip, but they need different planning from an ordinary holiday.

1. Confirm the dates

Many festivals follow lunar calendars and change every year. Confirm official dates before booking anything. Some events, such as specific processions or lantern releases, happen on one particular evening.

2. Book early

Hotels near festivals sell out months in advance and prices rise. For events like Yi Peng in Chiang Mai, the Pushkar Camel Fair or Hornbill near Kohima, book three to six months ahead.

3. Choose where to stay

Staying close to the action saves time, but it can be noisy. Sometimes it is better to stay a little outside and travel in.

4. Arrive early

Arrive a day or two before the main day to settle in and learn the layout.

5. Plan the days around the main event

Keep the festival day free of other plans. Use the days before and after for quieter sightseeing.

6. Expect crowds

Keep valuables secure, agree on meeting points with your group and stay hydrated.

7. Respect the festival

Festivals are religious or cultural events for locals. Dress appropriately, follow rules and ask before photographing people, especially during rituals.

8. Have a back-up plan

Weather, safety rules or local decisions can change plans. Keep flexibility.

Festivals worth planning around

Durga Puja in Kolkata, Holi in Mathura and Vrindavan, the Rann Utsav in Kutch, cherry blossom in Japan and Songkran in Thailand. See Festivals worth planning a trip around and our Festival and seasonal trips page.