Jaipur's skies turn into a riot of colour every 14 January as the city marks Makar Sankranti with the International Kite Festival. The Kite Festival falls on 14 January every year, making it one of the most predictable dates on the Rajasthan festival calendar — ideal for advance planning. The day traditionally begins with a holy dip at Galtaji, after which locals and visitors alike take to rooftops and open grounds to fly kites and compete in aerial duels. The pleasant January weather adds to the appeal, and the festival draws participants from across India and abroad. Book flights and accommodation well in advance — this one fills up fast.

The Desert Festival is an annual cultural event held in Jaisalmer, usually in February, showcasing the rich folk culture of the Thar Desert through camel races, turban-tying competitions, traditional folk dances like Gair and Fire Dance, puppet shows and local musical performances. The backdrop of Sam Sand Dunes and Jaisalmer's golden fort makes this one of the most photogenic festivals in the country — bring a good camera and arrive a day early for the best vantage points.

A few days ahead of Holi each year, the Bharatpur region comes alive with Brij Holi — a three-day festival steeped in the spirit of Lord Krishna. Celebrants dress in bright traditional clothing, the famous Rasleela is performed depicting the love story of Krishna and Radha, and colour fills the air as songs and dances go on through the day. It's an inclusive, joyful celebration that warmly welcomes visitors — if you're planning a Rajasthan trip in March, time it to overlap with Brij Holi.

Udaipur's answer to the arrival of spring, the Mewar Festival is a spectacular blend of religious ceremony and cultural celebration. Women carry the idols of Gangaur and Isar through the city in processions, singing and dancing, before the idols are placed on boats at Lake Pichola. The city becomes lively with cultural performances and fireworks near the lake. The lakeside setting at dusk, with fireworks reflecting off Pichola's waters, is truly unforgettable.

The Marwar Festival celebrates the heroes and traditions of the Marwar region, with folk artists performing traditional music and dances in the majestic surroundings of Mehrangarh Fort. Originally known as the Maand Festival — a classical style of folk music centred on the romantic lifestyle of Rajasthan's royalty — it has grown into a major cultural event.

No list of Rajasthan festivals is complete without the Pushkar Camel Fair — one of the largest livestock fairs in the world and a bucket-list event for travellers. The fair is celebrated at the beginning of the Hindu month of Kartik and concludes on Kartik Purnima, the full moon day. Trading activities and camel competitions peak during the first few days, while the final days emphasise religious ceremonies and holy dips in Pushkar Lake. Expect everything from camel beauty contests and moustache competitions to handicraft markets and folk performances.