Uttarayani Mela is celebrated in the beautiful city of Bageshwar in Uttarakhand which is a blend of the culture, tradition and spirituality of Uttarakhand.
Uttarayani Mela is celebrated every year in January on the occasion of Makar Sankranti when the Sun enters the Northern Hemisphere. Thousands of devotees from all over the country come to witness this wonderful confluence of unique faith and celebration.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Uttarayani Mela, celebrated for centuries in Uttarakhand, offers a glimpse of history and culture. This fair is organized near the confluence of the Saryu and Gomti rivers which is considered a holy place for Hindus. The sentiments and faith of the local people are attached to the Uttarayani Mela. According to the belief, bathing in this holy river washes away a person’s sins and brings prosperity.
Traditional crafts, folk music, dances are presented in this fair which create a festive atmosphere. Traders, artisans and pilgrims from different parts of India gather here and make the celebration of Uttarayani Mela a confluence of cultures.
Main attractions:
Devotees take a dip of faith in the holy river
Grand procession and religious ceremony
Traditional folk performance of Uttarakhand
Local handicrafts and artisan products
What to Expect at Uttarayani Mela
On the occasion of Uttarayani Mela, devotees gather on the banks of the river and take a holy dip to seek blessings for prosperity and happiness. The fair is bustling with activity as there are shops selling a variety of delicacies and goods. Folk dances, music, traditional programs and a confluence of Uttarakhand traditions make the fair a centre of attraction.
Woollen clothes, wooden artifacts and local cuisine are available for food lovers.
Activities to enjoy:
Shopping for local crafts and souvenirs
Tasting traditional Kumaoni cuisine
Watching spiritual rituals and ceremonies
Traditional folk dances and programs
Mythological Connection
According to Hindu belief, Bageshwar has a deep connection with Lord Shiva, there is a temple of Bagnath here which attracts millions of pilgrims. Pilgrims come to pray and seek blessings. It is believed that Lord Shiva appeared here in the form of a tiger, hence the name of this city “Bageshwar”.
This fair of Bageshwar reflects joy and gaiety as well as devotion as this fair comes at a time when spiritual activities like charity and prayers gain importance according to Hindu belief.
How to Reach Uttarayani Mela, Bageshwar
By Air
The first way to reach Bageshwar is by air, the nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport which is located about 180 km from Bageshwar, from here onwards the journey has to be done by road.
By Rail
The second way to reach Bageshwar is by rail, the nearest railway station is Kathgodam which is located about 155 km from here.
By Road
Bageshwar is well connected by road to all the major cities of the country and state, regular buses and private taxis are easily available here.
Best Time to Visit Uttarayani Mela, Bageshwar
Uttarayan mela is organized on the occasion of Makar Sankranti in January. The weather remains cold at this time. Travelers must bring warm clothes with them as the temperature drops rapidly at night and the cold also increases.
Tips for Visitors
Being a hilly area, Bageshwar experiences extreme cold in January, so travellers should carry warm clothes.
Travellers should book their accommodation well in advance to avoid inconvenience during the fair.
Travellers should respect the local customs and participate in their religious practices and rituals with respect.
Travellers should not forget to taste the local cuisine of Bageshwar and also visit nearby attractions like Baijnath Temple, Kausani and Pindari Glacier.
Frequently Asked Questions About Uttarayani Mela
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