Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.
India’s diverse and vibrant culture has given rise to several outstanding music festivals, showcasing an array of genres and artists. The festivals not only provide pulsating live performances but also offer breathtaking locations and a chance to experience the warm hospitality and local flavors of Indian culture. This article highlights some of the best music festivals in India, and if you’re a music enthusiast, you won’t want to miss them.
One of the most renowned festivals is the Jodhpur Rajasthan International Folk Festival, which takes place at the majestic Mehrangarh Fort. Timed to coincide with the brightest full moon night of the year, this international folk festival is an excellent example of India’s exceptional roots music scene. With attendees coming from different parts of the world, the festival provides a platform for collaborations between Indian and international artists.
Past line-ups at this festival include prominent acts like Kailash Kher, Terrance Simien, and the Zydeco Experience, among others. The combination of the historical backdrop and incredible music make this festival a unique experience you won’t want to miss.
Another must-attend festival is the Sunburn Festival in Goa. As India’s premier electronic music brand, Sunburn has been organizing the largest 3-day electronic music festivals in Asia since 2007. Held at picturesque locations in the beach paradise of Goa, this spectacle attracts thousands of music fans, eager to enjoy their favorite electronic music artists and DJs.
With previous years featuring a line-up of international superstars like Martin Garrix, David Guetta, and Afrojack, the Sunburn Festival consistently delivers an unforgettable experience in the world of electronic music. The stunning location, electrifying atmosphere, and remarkable performances make this an event you should definitely plan to attend.
Page Contents
Dance Music Festivals In India
India is home to several amazing dance music festivals that cater to fans of electronic dance music (EDM) and other genres. This section will introduce you to three of the most popular and unique festivals in India: Sunburn Festival, Vh1 Supersonic, and Enchanted Valley Carnival.
Sunburn Festival
Sunburn Festival is Asia’s largest music festival and a prominent event in the Indian music scene. The festival takes place annually in Goa, typically in late December. Sunburn attracts thousands of visitors worldwide and offers a multi-day experience full of music, art, and adventure sports.
The festival has showcased several world-famous artists such as The Chainsmokers and a host of renowned Indian talents, providing a perfect fusion of local and international acts. In addition to EDM, the festival also features techno and other genres of electronic music.
Unique Aspects:
- Diverse lineup of international and Indian artists
- Attractive location in Goa, with its beautiful beaches
- Adventure sports and recreational activities available
Previous Highlights:
- Acts: The Chainsmokers, Martin Garrix, KSHMR
- Venue: Vagator, Goa
- Dates: Late December
Vh1 Supersonic
Vh1 Supersonic, another massive music festival in India, is held annually in Pune. Known for its vibrant stages and top-notch lineups, Vh1 Supersonic features both international and Indian artists across various electronic music genres, making it a must-attend event for EDM enthusiasts.
Apart from the music, visitors can also explore art installations, flea markets, and indulge in delectable food. The festival usually occurs in February and lasts for three days.
Unique Aspects:
- Eclectic mix of electronic music genres
- Art installations and flea markets
- Strong focus on Indian talents
Previous Highlights:
- Acts: Marshmello, Diplo, Nucleya
- Venue: Mahalaxmi Lawns, Pune
- Dates: February
Enchanted Valley Carnival
Enchanted Valley Carnival (EVC) is India’s first multigenre music festival, held annually at the Aamby Valley City near Lonavala, Maharashtra. The festival uniquely combines music, art, and camping experiences over a weekend, typically in December.
EVC hosts a diverse lineup of artists from various genres, such as EDM, indie, and Bollywood music. The festival also features adventure sports, art zones, and camping accommodations amidst the serene hills of Lonavala.
Unique Aspects:
- Multigenre music lineup
- Stunning location with camping
- Active art zones and adventure sports
Previous Highlights:
- Acts: Arijit Singh, Alan Walker, Flo Rida
- Venue: Aamby Valley City, Maharashtra
- Dates: December
Rock Music Festivals In India
India is a land of diverse cultures and hosts numerous music festivals throughout the year. In this section, we will explore three of the best rock music festivals in India: NH7 Weekender, Ziro Festival of Music, and Ragasthan.
NH7 Weekender
The NH7 Weekender is one of India’s most popular and sought-after music festivals across Pune, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. This multi-city event showcases not only rock but also pop, indie, and folk music genres, making it an enticing experience for all music lovers.
Happening annually, the Bacardi NH7 Weekender typically takes place between October and December and lasts around two to three days. The festival attracts a large crowd, offering an unforgettable experience with its diverse line-up of artists from both India and around the world. Some of the previous acts include Steven Wilson, Megadeth, A.R. Rahman, and many more.
What makes NH7 Weekender unique is the blend of camping, art installations, and workshops that cater to different interests, ensuring a wholesome experience for everyone. If you’re a fan of rock music, you don’t want to miss out on the high-energy performances and vibrant atmosphere at this festival!
