many people walking on the desert with a building in the background

A Splash of Colour in the Desert Sands: Unveiling the Jaisalmer Desert Festival

The Thar Desert, Rajasthan's crown jewel, comes alive with vibrant colours and festivities during the Jaisalmer Desert Festival also known as Maru Mahotsav. This three-day extravaganza, held every year in February, showcases Rajasthan's rich cultural heritage, captivating visitors with its folk performances, vibrant processions, and a unique blend of tradition and merriment.

Significance of the Maru Mahotsav, Jaisalmer


This desert festival is more than just a celebration; it's a vibrant tapestry woven with history, tradition, and community spirit. Here's how this festival holds significance.

  • Celebrating a Legacy: Local folklore says that Lord Krishna prophesied about the founding of a kingdom atop Trikuta Hill by a leader from the Yadav community. Centuries later, in 1196, Rawal Jaiswal, purportedly a Yadav descendant, established the kingdom of Jaisalmer. It's believed that the festival originated as a means to honour this historic event.

  • A Showcase of Rajasthani Culture: The Jaisalmer Desert Festival is a vibrant display of Rajasthan's rich cultural heritage. Folk dances like the Ghoomar and Kalbeliya enthral audiences with their graceful movements and colourful attire. Traditional music fills the air while skilled artisans showcase crafts like pottery, embroidery, and metalwork.

  • Promoting Tourism and Local Businesses: The festival attracts visitors from all over the world, boosting tourism in Jaisalmer. Local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to handicraft vendors, experience a surge in activity, contributing to the city's economy.

  • A Celebration of Community: The Jaisalmer Desert Festival brings together people from all walks of life. Locals and tourists alike revel in the joyous atmosphere, fostering a sense of community and cultural exchange.

A Festival Steeped in Tradition


The Jaisalmer Desert Festival is typically held over three days, coinciding with the full moon in the Hindu month of Magh, which falls in February. The exact dates vary slightly each year. The festival kicks off with a grand procession featuring ornately decorated camels, horse riders, and vibrant folk performances. Over the next few days, the desert comes alive with a kaleidoscope of events.

  • Camel Contests: Witness the magnificence of these 'ships of the desert' as they participate in beauty contests, races, and even a unique game of polo played on camelback.

  • Turban Tying Competitions: The art of turban tying is an integral part of Rajasthani culture. Watch skilled participants showcase their speed and artistry in creating a variety of colourful turbans.

  • Moustache Competitions: Prepare to be awestruck by the impressive moustaches sported by some local men. These competitions celebrate this unique cultural tradition and the meticulous grooming involved.

  • Folk Music and Dance Extravaganza: Immerse yourself in the vibrant sounds and rhythms of Rajasthan. Energetic folk dances like the Ghoomar and Kalbeliya captivate audiences with their storytelling elements and colourful costumes.

  • A Culinary Delights: Indulge in a delicious spread of Rajasthani cuisine. Sample local delicacies like "dal baati churma" (a lentil dish with fried flatbread and crumbled sweet), "lal maas" (mutton curry), and a variety of flavourful vegetarian dishes.

The Jaisalmer Desert Festival is a vibrant and immersive experience transcending a simple tourist attraction. It's a celebration of history, tradition, and the enduring spirit of Rajasthan's desert communities. During your visit to this festival consider experiencing a stay at MANVAR Resort & Desert Camp. This luxurious desert camp provides accommodations in a serene setting amidst nature's tranquillity. Indulge in delightful meals at Taasli restaurant to satisfy your hunger cravings. So, pack your bags, embrace the colourful chaos, and lose yourself in the magic of the Jaisalmer Desert Festival without worrying about your stay with our resort!

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