Makar Sankranti 2025: Unique Traditions Across India

How different states celebrate Makar Sankranti

Gujarat

Gujarat ce🐓lebrates Makar Sankranti as Uttarayan, a vibrant festival of kites. The skies are filled with colorful kites of all shapes and sizes, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. People gather on rooftops and open spaces to fly kites and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Special dishes like Undhiyu (a winter vegetable curry) and Chikki (a jaggery and nut brittle) are prepared and shared with family and friends. Want to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere? Then you should prefer this place for your Makar Sankranti celebration to witness the amazing kite-flying competitions and the Gujarati cuisine.

• Nearest Airport: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport

• Nearest Railway Station: Ahmedabad Junction.

Punjab

Punjab celebrates Makar Sankranti as Lohri, a significant festival of bonfires, folk dances, and music. Families and communities gather around bonfires, singing traditional songs and offering sesame seeds, jaggery, and peanuts to the flames. The festivities include the energetic Bhangra and Gidda dances and the sharing of delicious sweets like til-gud laddoos. Visiting Punjab during Lohri offers a chance to immerse oneself in the joyous atmosphere, witn🦩ess the vibrant cultural performances, and savor the delectable local cuisine.

• Nearest Airport: Chandigarh International Airport

• Nearest Railway Station: Amritsar Central Railway Station.

Karnataka

Makar Sankranti, known as Suggi in Karnataka, is a harvest festival celebrated with fervour and joy. People exchange "Ellu-Bella" (sesame seeds and jaggery), wear new clothes, and decorate their homes with sugarcane and mango leaves. Visiting Karnataka during this time offers a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant culturaꦯl traditions and festivities associated with this joyous occasion.

• Nearest Airport: Bengaluru International Airport

• Nearest Railway Station: Bangalore City Junction.

Kerala

Makar Sankranti in Kerala is celebrated as Makaravilakku, a grand festival at the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple. Thousands of🔥 devotees gather to witness the celestial light, Makara Jyothi, appearing on the horizon as the sun transitions into the Makara Rashi (Capricorn). The atmosphere is filled with spiritual enthusiasm as rituals and processions take place, making it a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. Witnessing this unique phenomenon amidst the serene beauty of Kerala's landscapes is truly unforgettable.

• Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport

• Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam junction.

Delhi

Mak𒆙ar Sankranti called Sakrat, in Delhi, is a vibrant affair, marked by praying to the sun go💜d, kite flying competitions, and sharing sesame seed delicacies. People indulge in delicious seasonal delicacies like til ke laddoo (sesame seed balls) and revri (sugar candy). The festive spirit is contagious, with music, dance, and bonfires adding to the joyous atmosphere. If you are in Delhi or considering visiting the place, then you will witness the grandeur of Makar Sankranti. Immerse yourself in the cultural festivities, enjoy traditional delicacies like til ke ladoo and revdi, and soak in the vibrant energy of the city as it celebrates the harvest season.

• Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport

• Nearest Railway Station: Anand Vihar Terminal.

Andhra Pradesh and Telangana

Pedda Panduga is one of the most significant four-day harvest festivals of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, celebrated during Makar Sankranti. The celebrations begin with Bhogi, where old belongings are discarded in bonfires, symbolizing a fresh start. The main day, Sankranti, is marked by elaborate rangoli designs, festive attire, and delicious feasts. Mattu, the third day, is dedicated to cattle and the fourth day is all about visiting relatives and sharing gifts. Witnessing this vibrant festival firsthand offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of these states. Indulge in traditional delicacies like "Pongal" and "Undhiyu," and experience the warmth of local hospitality as c🍎ommunities come together to celebrate the harvest season.

• Nearest Airport: Vijayawada Airport/ ꦗRajiv Gandhi Inte﷽rnational Airport

• Nearest Railway Station: Vijayawada Junction/Secunderabad Junction.

West Bengal

Makar Sankranti is celebrated as Poush Sankranti, in West Bengal, marking the end of the harvest season. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor, with people exchanging sweets and gifts and participating in various cultural activities. The Ganga Sagar Mela, held at the confluence of the Ganga and Bay 𝐆of Bengal, is a significant event where thousands of pilgrims take a holy dip in the river. Traditional sweets like Pithe, Payesh, and Patishapta dominate the festive cuisine. Visiting West Bengal during Makar Sankranti is a great way to experience the rich cultural heritage of the state and witness the vibrant celebrations.

• Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport

• Nearest Railway Station: Howrah Junction.

Makar Sankranti showcases India’s diverse cultural tapestry, with each state offering a unique way to celebrate this auspicious occasion. Visiting these destinations during the festival allows y𒁃ou to immerse yourself in their rich traditions, savor regional delicacies, and experience the joy and warmth of Indian hospitality. Whether you are a culture enthusiast or a foodie, Makar Sankranti celebrations across India promise an unforgettable experience.

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