Bookmark This! 12 Unmissable Festivals & Events in South India – 2026

South India is a land rich in tradition. Here, every festival, events or natural spectacle turns into a celebration that transforms the city and the landscape into living stories. Throughout the year, the cities brim with festivities that cannot be missed. Here is the curated calendar of 12 unique events from across South India that offer a greater picture of the region’s vibrant culture, heritage and seasonal beauty. Get ready to mark your calendar and make your travel bucket list as interesting as possible with us.

January: Jallikattu, Madurai

Who wouldn’t want to witness the celebration of Tamil Pride during the Pongal season? It’s time to pack your bags to Madurai mann and witness the entire city coming alive with music, rituals, different events and festive cheer. Jallikattu, one of the pride events of Tamil culture, attracts crowds from all over the world by showcasing the courage, valour, tradition and the community spirit.

February: Deccan Festival, Hyderabad

Are you an admirer of art, literature and live performances? February at Hyderabad is your go-to location to witness the Deccan Festival. Celebrated near the iconic Golconda Fort, this festival showcases Hyderabad’s rich Deccani heritage through qawwalis, ghazals, traditional crafts, and cuisine. It’s a cultural immersion into the city’s regal past and artistic soul.

March: Cherry Blossom Festival, Bengaluru

Cherry Blossoms in Japan are fine, but have you ever witnessed the Cherry Blossom in Namma Bengaluru? As spring arrives, Bengaluru turns poetic with its Cherry Blossom Festival. Streets bloom in soft pink hues, offering picture-perfect moments across the city. Pack your bags to witness the most underrated natural events, that acts as a gentle celebration of nature, marking the transition into warmer days with beauty and calm.

April: Chithirai Festival, Madurai

Celebrating the first month of the Tamil Calendar, Chithirai, is as grand as the Tamil tradition and culture. If you want to witness the true Chithirai celebration, you must not miss your visit to Madurai. Spanning several days, this celebration of the celestial wedding of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar draws devotees and travellers across the country. This festival makes Madurai spiritually vibrant through processions, temple rituals, and cultural performances.

May: Flower Show, Kodaikanal

Summer finds its charm in the cool hills of Kodaikanal. The annual Flower Show transforms Bryant Park into a canvas of colours, featuring exotic blooms, floral sculptures, and landscaped gardens, turning into a soothing visual treat for nature lovers and families.

June: Ther Car Festival, Tirunelveli

Want to drift away while being rooted in tradition? Experience the Ther Car Festival of Nellaiyappar Temple that happens during the month of Aani (June) every year. The elaborately decorated chariot pulled through the streets amid chants and festivities gives a powerful display of devotion, unity, and centuries-old traditions.

July: Mud Fields & Monsoon Splash, Wayanad

Do you miss those childhood moments where you play football in the muds during monsoon? What if I tell you, that you can bring back those nostalgic moments at Wayanad. Experience nature at its raw this July where monsoon transforms Wayanad into a lush wonderland.

August: Kite Festival, Mahabalipuram

Are you the one who gets excited by the kites? Are you excited to see the colourful kites from France, Germany, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Swiss, India, and more line up to showcase their culture, creativity and fun? Book your trip to Mahabalipuram to witness the Kite Festival dancing above the historic shore temple. This playful celebration excites all the kids in you, families, and photography enthusiasts.

September: Orange Festival, Yercaud

September celebrates harvest and freshness at the Orange Festival in Yercaud. The hill town showcases its citrus bounty with local produce, cultural programs, and vibrant community gatherings. Taste the season’s bounty at Sky Roca Diner at GReaT trails Yercaud.

October: Bommai Golu, Thanjavur

October brings Bommai Golu, where homes and temples display traditional dolls arranged in tiered steps. Thanjavur’s artistic legacy shines through storytelling, music, and devotion during Navaratri.

November: Deepavali, Chennai

Deepavali in Chennai is a burst of lights, flavours, and festivities. From early morning rituals to firecrackers and feasts, the city celebrates togetherness and renewal with light and hope.

December: Margazhi Music Festival, Chennai

Margazhi and Madras are the best combination that brings a soulful experience with the Margazhi Music Festival. Classical Carnatic concerts fill sabhas across Chennai, drawing artists and audiences from around the world.

From adrenaline-filled traditions to serene cultural gatherings, South India in 2026 promises experiences that stay with you long after the celebrations end. Make your experiences GReaTer with GRT Hotels and Resorts this 2026.