5 Best Spots to Witness the Magic of Makar Sankranti!

Table of Content: 

• Ahmedabad, Gujarat – The Kite Festival Capital

• Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – A Spiritual Sojourn

• Jaipur, Rajasthan – A Royal Affair

• Haridwar, Uttarakhand – A Sacred Celebration

• Tamil Nadu – The Harvest Glory of Pongal

As the calendar marks the arrival of Makar Sankranti, a wave of excitement sweeps across India. This Hindu festival is one of the most celebrated harvest festivals in the country, symbolising the end of winter and the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara). Celebrated with immense joy, fervour, and enthusiasm, Makar Sankranti is a cultural extravaganza that showcases India's diversity and unity. The festival is marked by vibrant kite flying, delicious festive feasts, sacred rituals, and community celebrations that leave an indelible impression on all who partake. If you're seeking an unforgettable cultural experience, here are the 5 best spots in India to witness the magic of Makar Sankranti of 2025. 
 

1. Ahmedabad, Gujarat – The Kite Festival Capital

Ahmedabad, the cultural heart of Gujarat, takes the lead when it comes to celebrating Makar Sankranti with flair. Known as Uttarayan, the festival transforms the city into a kaleidoscope of colours. The skies above Ahmedabad are adorned with thousands of kites in every shape, size, and hue during the International Kite Festival, an event that attracts participants and spectators from around the world. Encounter the grandeur of Makar Sankranti by planning your trip to this captivating city with our specially curated Ahmedabad Tour Packages. 
 

• Things To Do: Watch professional kite flyers display their skills, savour local delicacies like undhiyu and jalebi, and soak in the joyous atmosphere at Sabarmati Riverfront, the epicentre of the celebrations.
   

• Must-Visit Sites: Sabarmati Ashram, Kite Museum, and the vibrant bazaars of the old city.

2. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – A Spiritual Sojourn

For those seeking a blend of spirituality and celebration, Varanasi offers an unparalleled experience during Makar Sankranti. Known as Khichdi Sankranti, the festival is marked by pilgrims gathering at the ghats of the Ganges to take a holy dip and offer prayers to the Sun God.
 

• Things To Do: Witness the mesmerising sight of thousands of earthen lamps floating on the river during the Ganga Aarti and enjoy the sight of kites soaring high against the backdrop of Varanasi’s historic skyline.
   

• Must-Visit Sites: Dashashwamedh Ghat, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and the bustling Chowk area for local sweets like til ke laddoo.

3. Jaipur, Rajasthan – A Royal Affair

Jaipur, the Pink City of India, celebrates Makar Sankranti with a regal touch. The festival is synonymous with the Kite Flying Festival, where locals and visitors alike take to their rooftops to engage in friendly kite battles while music and laughter echo through the streets. Make the most of your getaway by staying in comfortable and luxurious accommodations. EaseMyTrip provides a wide range of exclusive Hotels in Jaipur for travellers’ ultimate comfort and staycation. 

• Things To Do: Enjoy kite duels with the chant of “Woh kaata!” filling the air, relish festive treats like ghevar and dal pakwan, and witness the grandeur of traditional folk performances and cultural shows.
   

• Must-Visit Sites: Nahargarh Fort for panoramic views of the kite-filled skies, Albert Hall Museum, and the iconic Hawa Mahal.

4. Haridwar, Uttarakhand – A Sacred Celebration

Makar Sankranti in Haridwar is steeped in religious significance, attracting devotees from across the country. Celebrated with the belief that a holy dip in the sacred Ganges washes away sins, the festival exudes spiritual tranquillity.
 

• Things To Do: Experience the serene yet vibrant ambience of Har Ki Pauri, where thousands of devotees gather to offer prayers and take the auspicious dip. The streets are lined with vendors selling traditional sweets and festive items.
   

• Must-Visit Sites: Har Ki Pauri, Mansa Devi Temple, and Chandi Devi Temple for a spiritual retreat.

5. Tamil Nadu – The Harvest Glory of Pongal

In Tamil Nadu, Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Pongal, a four-day harvest festival that reflects the region’s agricultural heritage. The festivities include traditional rituals, community feasts, and vibrant cultural events that captivate every traveller. So, pack your bags and venture on the journey of memories, joy, and celebrations. Check Delhi to Chennai Flights and book your seamless getaway today. 

• Things To Do: Witness the making of Pongal (a sweet rice dish) in earthen pots, participate in bull-taming events like Jallikattu, and marvel at the traditional kolam (rangoli) patterns adorning homes.
   

• Must-Visit Sites: Villages near Madurai for authentic Pongal celebrations, Meenakshi Temple, and the local markets for handicrafts.

Summing Up! 

To sum up, Makar Sankranti is more than just a festival; it’s a cultural spectacle that beautifully encapsulates India’s diversity and traditions. Whether you’re drawn to the colourful skies of Ahmedabad, the spiritual aura of Varanasi, the royal charm of Jaipur, the serene ghats of Haridwar, or the harvest festivities of Tamil Nadu, each destination offers a unique way to experience the grandeur of this festival. This Makar Sankranti, step out, explore, and immerse yourself in the festive spirit of India, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Pack your bags, embrace the joy of travel, and let Makar Sankranti guide you to the heart of India’s vibrant celebrations!