The Nanda Devi Fair, or Nanda Devi Mahotsav, is a vibrant five- to seven-day cultural and religious festival held every September in the Kumaon and Garhwal regions of Uttarakhand, India. It honors Goddess Nanda Devi and her sister Sunanda, symbolising regional prosperity, local arts, and community heritage.
The Nanda Devi Fair is also called the Maa Nanda-Sunanda Fair. Preparations are in full swing in Almora as the historic Maa Nanda-Sunanda Fair is set to begin, bringing together devotees, tourists, and locals to celebrate Uttarakhand's rich religious and cultural traditions. The annual fair holds immense historical and religious significance and is known for showcasing the state's folk culture, traditional customs and deep-rooted devotion to Goddess Nanda and Sunanda.
The fair will be held from September 16 to September 23, with several religious and cultural activities planned during the week. As the event approaches, Almora has already begun buzzing with excitement, with preparations being carried out across the city to welcome a large number of visitors.
What is the Nanda Devi fair?
The Maa Nanda-Sunanda Fair is one of the prominent traditional celebrations of the Kumaon region. Goddess Nanda is deeply revered across Uttarakhand and is considered the patron deity of the region by many communities. The festival provides devotees an opportunity to offer prayers and participate in rituals while also experiencing the cultural heritage of the hills.
The fair is not limited to religious ceremonies. Visitors can also witness local folk traditions, music, customs and the distinctive cultural atmosphere of Almora.
Nanda-Sunanda Palanquin procession
The grand palanquin procession of Maa Nanda and Sunanda will be one of the biggest highlights of the celebrations. It is scheduled to take place on September 23 at 4 pm.
During the procession, the palanquin carrying the revered deities will travel through the city amid the sounds of traditional drums and chants praising Maa Nanda and Sunanda. Devotees are expected to gather along the route to seek blessings and participate in the religious celebrations.
The procession will eventually reach Doba Naula, where the ceremony will conclude as per traditional religious rituals.
