Culture, food and festivals

Garhwali and Kumaoni traditions, local dishes and fairs

Uttarakhand's two regions, Garhwal and Kumaon, share many traditions but have their own dialects, dishes and festivals.

Garhwal and Kumaon

Garhwal is in the west (Dehradun, Rishikesh, Char Dham). Kumaon is in the east (Nainital, Almora). Each has its own folk songs, dances and festival calendar.

Traditional dishes

  • Aloo ke Gutke: spiced potatoes
  • Kafuli: spinach and fenugreek gravy
  • Bhatt ki Churkani: black soybean curry
  • Mandua ki Roti: finger millet flatbread
  • Garhwali Kadhi and Phaanu: lentil and yogurt dishes
  • Jhangora ki Kheer: barnyard millet pudding
  • Singori and Bal Mithai (Kumaon): sweets from Almora
  • Arsa: sweet rice-flour fried cookies

Festivals and fairs (typical periods)

  • Makar Sankranti / Uttarayani (January): fairs such as at Bageshwar.
  • Holi (March): Kumaoni Baithaki Holi is a local tradition.
  • Harela (July): a Kumaon festival marking sowing.
  • Nanda Devi fairs (September): in Almora, Nainital and other places.
  • Dussehra and Diwali (October-November).
  • Kumbh Mela at Haridwar every 12 years; the Ardh Kumbh is reported to run from 14 January to 20 April 2027, so expect heavy crowds.

Music, dance and crafts

  • Choliya (a sword dance), Jhora and Chancheri are well-known folk dances.
  • Aipan is a floor art form in Kumaon.
  • Woollens and handwoven shawls are sold in places like Munsiyari and Pithoragarh.

Visitor etiquette

  • Remove shoes at temples; dress modestly.
  • Ask before photographing people or rituals.
  • Do not litter, and carry a bag for rubbish.
  • Many shrines restrict leather and non-vegetarian food.

Frequently asked questions

What local dish should I try first?

Bhatt ki churkani or mandua roti with local ghee, and bal mithai for dessert.

Sources and verification

Last reviewed 2026-10-25. Prices, opening dates, road status and permits change often. Confirm with an official source before you travel.