From May 10 to 12, 2025, the scenic hill town of Mount Abu in Rajasthan celebrated its annual Summer Festival, drawing thousands of tourists from across India and abroad. Organized by the Rajasthan Tourism Department, the three-day event highlighted the region’s cultural vibrancy and natural beauty, particularly in the only hill station of the desert state.
The festival kicked off with a colorful procession starting at RTDC Hotel Shikhar, featuring folk dancers, musicians, and traditional camel and horse riders. Attendees were treated to vibrant performances of Rajasthani folk dances like Ghoomar, Gair, and Kalbeliya, alongside tribal music from nearby regions. International guests participated in a fusion concert held at Polo Ground, blending local instruments like the sarangi with global genres.
A central attraction was the boat race held on Nakki Lake, which saw fierce competition among state tourism teams. Other highlights included a kite-flying competition, tug-of-war contests, and a Rajasthani handicraft bazaar featuring pottery, mirror-work textiles, and silver jewelry from local artisans. Street food stalls served authentic regional cuisine like dal-baati-churma and gatte ki sabzi.
New to this year’s lineup was a sustainable tourism exhibit at the Toad Rock area, focusing on eco-friendly travel practices and water conservation—important given the region’s semi-arid climate. The district administration also introduced night heritage walks around Dilwara Temples and the Achalgarh Fort, offering tourists a deeper historical perspective.
The festival is seen as a key pillar in boosting off-season tourism in Rajasthan and promoting Mount Abu as a family and wellness destination. Local hotels reported near-full occupancy, indicating its growing popularity.
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