Jammu and Kashmir, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers a vibrant array of festivals in September. This month serves as a bridge between summer and autumn, and the region comes alive with religious ceremonies, local fairs, and events that celebrate the region’s traditions and spiritual richness. Here, we explore notable festivals taking place in September 2025, diving into their historical significance, customs, and what visitors can experience.
Read More About Hindu Philosophy
1. Bahu Mela
- Significance: Held at the historic Bahu Fort in Jammu, this festival celebrates Goddess Kali, revered as a protective deity.
- Traditions: Worshippers gather for offerings and prayers at the Kali Temple, situated within Bahu Fort. During the mela (fair), a wide array of local handicrafts, food, and traditional Kashmiri music and dance can be enjoyed, drawing both locals and tourists.
- Highlights: The Bahu Mela’s iconic feature is the dynamic local bazaar that includes everything from shawls and jewelry to pottery and folk performances. It’s a cultural immersion into the crafts and arts of Jammu and Kashmir.
2. Navratri
- Dates: Begins late September, extending into early October.
- Cultural Importance: Celebrated throughout India, Navratri holds a special place in Jammu and Kashmir, where Hindu families honor the goddess Durga through fasting, prayers, and elaborate decorations.
- Practices: The local communities prepare altars and idols of Durga, accompanied by daily bhajans (devotional songs). The festive spirit is heightened with the traditional ‘Garba’ dance, which fills the air with excitement and joy.
- Experience: Attending the Navratri celebrations offers visitors a spiritual and visual feast, with vibrant costumes, dance, and food prepared specifically for the festival.
3. Ramnagar Basakhi Fair
- Overview: Though traditionally celebrated in spring, the Ramnagar Basakhi Fair in some areas extends festivities into the fall.
- Activities: This fair includes traditional dance forms, sports like tug-of-war, and local crafts on display. It is an exceptional occasion to witness traditional Himachali music and folklore that has influenced Jammu and Kashmir’s culture.
- Insights: The fair provides a rare opportunity to engage with local artisans, understand traditional weaving methods, and taste regional cuisine unique to the Ramnagar area.
4. Harvest and Food Festivals
- Purpose: September, marking the transition into autumn, is a time for local harvest festivals in certain regions, celebrating the bounty of fruits like apples, walnuts, and saffron.
- Experience: Many villages in Kashmir hold fairs and gatherings around this season, where visitors can sample fresh produce, participate in harvest rituals, and even witness traditional fruit-picking practices.
- Unique Attraction: Food enthusiasts will appreciate the focus on traditional Kashmiri flavors, with stalls offering delicacies like Kahwa, Rogan Josh, and Pulao, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the region.
