Karnataka, in southern India, is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant temple festivals. From the grandeur of Mysuru Dasara to the once-a-year hill pilgrimage of the Deviramma Jatre, these celebrations offer travellers a window into the state’s living traditions. Here is a guide to some of the most prominent festivals and events, with their expected dates — and links to our detailed guides where you can plan each one.
Mysuru Dasara
The state festival of Karnataka and one of India’s grandest celebrations. Held over ten days in Mysuru, it culminates in the famous Jamboo Savari — a majestic procession in which the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari is carried through the city on a golden howdah atop a decorated elephant. The illuminated Mysore Palace is a sight in itself.
When is Mysuru Dasara in 2026? Mysuru Dasara 2026 runs from 11th to 21st October 2026, with the grand Jamboo Savari and Torchlight Parade on Vijayadashami, 21st October.
Bengaluru Karaga
One of Bengaluru’s oldest and most spectacular festivals, celebrated by the Thigala community at the Dharmaraya Swamy Temple. Dedicated to Draupadi, worshipped as a form of Shakti, its highlight is a dramatic night-long procession led by a priest carrying a tall, flower-bedecked Karaga on his head, accompanied by hundreds of sword-wielding Veerakumaras.
When is Bengaluru Karaga in 2026? The festival runs across late March and early April 2026, with the main midnight procession expected on the full-moon night of 1st–2nd April 2026.
Krishna Janmashtami in Udupi
Udupi — home to the famed Sri Krishna Matha — is one of the most special places in India to witness Krishna Janmashtami, with midnight abhishekas, kirtans, and the vibrant Vittla Pindi celebrations that follow. Krishna Janmashtami 2026 falls on 4th September 2026. Huli vesha and Krishna leelotsava are on 5th September 2026
Read our full guide: Krishna Janmashtami in Udupi. We also offer a dedicated Udupi personalized itinerary covering Krishna Janmashtami, Kambala, Yakshagana, and St. Mary’s Island.
Hampi Utsava
Also known as Vijaya Utsava, this cultural festival lights up the UNESCO World Heritage ruins of Hampi with classical and folk dance, music, drama, and spectacular light-and-sound shows across monuments like the Virupaksha Temple and Stone Chariot. A special highlight is the Janapada Kalavahini folk medley.
When is Hampi Utsava in 2026? Hampi Utsava 2026 is scheduled for 13th to 15th February 2026. Accommodation in nearby Hosapete fills up months ahead, so book early.
Deviramma Jatre
A unique hill pilgrimage near Chikkamagaluru, where the Deviramma temple atop a 3,000-foot hill in the Western Ghats opens to devotees on just one occasion each year — around Naraka Chaturdashi, marking Deepavali. Thousands undertake an 8-kilometre barefoot trek for the annual darshan, and the night’s Deepotsava fills the hillside with thousands of oil lamps.
When is Deviramma Jatre in 2026? The temple is expected to be accessible on 7th and 8th November 2026, with the main darshan on 8th November. Read our full guide: Deviramma Jatre 2026 — Quick Travel Guide.
Hasanamba Temple, Hassan
A temple of miracles in Hassan that opens for only 10–15 days each year, during October or November. It is famed for the lamp lit on the closing day, said to remain burning until the temple reopens the following year, drawing a few lakh devotees in these days.
Read our full guide with opening dates and how to book tickets: Hasanamba Temple opening dates.
Kadalekai Parishe (Peanut Fair), Bengaluru
A much-loved annual fair dedicated to Dodda Ganesha (Big Ganesha) at the Bull Temple in Basavanagudi, Bengaluru. Held in December, the Kadalekai Parishe fills the streets with groundnut vendors, devotees, and a festive fair atmosphere. Kadale kai parishe in Basavanagudi of Bengaluru is between 5th December 2026 to 8th December 2026. The prime event will be held on 7th of December.
Read our full guide with dates: Kadalekai Parishe dates.
Karnataka Temple Festivals 2026 — At a Glance
| Festival | Where | 2026 Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Hampi Utsava (Vijaya Utsava) | Hampi, Vijayanagara | 13–15 February 2026 |
| Bengaluru Karaga | Dharmaraya Swamy Temple, Bengaluru | Main procession 2 April 2026 |
| Krishna Janmashtami | Udupi & across Karnataka | 4 September 2026 |
| Mysuru Dasara (Jamboo Savari) | Mysuru | 11–21 October 2026 (Savari on 21 Oct) |
| Hasanamba Temple | Hassan | 29- October to 11- November (10–15 days) |
| Deviramma Jatre | Deviramma Hill, Chikkamagaluru | 7–8 November 2026 |
| Kadalekai Parishe | Bull Temple, Bengaluru | 5–8 December, 2026 |
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