The Harela Festival And Monsoons in Nainital

The monsoons are here, and with the downpours come not just the auspicious month of Shravan but also the famous Harela festival. In the mountains of Uttarakhand, the Kumaoni community celebrates the onset of rains with a week full of festivities. Every year, from the 16th to the 21st of July, thousands of people from all over come to attend this popular festival of Uttarakhand, as everyone celebrates with food, festivities, and fairs.

The Harela festival of Uttarakhand is a celebration of nature and agriculture. The word ‘Harela’ literally translates to ‘a day of green’ or ‘a green leaf’. It is believed that the festival originated possibly over 100 years ago as a farmer’s market around the harvest season. Today, Harela is more than just a simple harvest festival. It is popularly known for its cultural and religious significance. 

During the days of festivities, the farmers cut the fresh blades of Harela, or the freshly sown crops, and arrange them in beautiful baskets to be sent to their loved ones. This exchange within the community is done as a symbol of growth and prosperity.

The Harela festival and the auspicious month of Shravan are also associated with the union of Goddess Parvati and her husband Lord Shiva. Many devotees in the Kumaon communities celebrate their union by crafting small idols of clay, and offering them ceremonial prayers.

If you are looking to enjoy the beauty of the festival and the Kumaon hills from one of the best resorts in Uttarakhand, don’t miss out on Sterling Nainital. Just a short drive from the Harela festivities, Sterling Nainital is the perfect getaway from the bustle of the city into the serenity of the mountains. 

The property’s neo-colonial architecture and interiors inspired by the Aipan art of the local communities pay homage to the rich history of the region. Sterling Nainital also features 49 well-appointed rooms with majestic views of the Himalayan pine forests, as well as a banquet hall for special celebrations.  We also serve the comforting and authentic Kumaon flavours as well as other Indian dishes in our in-house restaurant, Tadka. Sterling Nainital is also equipped with both indoor and outdoor activities for all age groups, ranging from board games to spa treatments. 

Tucked away in the privacy of the mountains, Sterling Nainital is a perfect getaway from the city, while still providing quick access to the Harela festival celebrations, as well as the local tourist attractions. This convenience of location makes it a top choice among the best hotels in Uttarakhand. Book a stay with us to make your visit truly memorable.