Matsya Festival 2025, Alwar – Dates, Highlights & Travel Guide to Rajasthan’s Cultural Fair
Every November, the historical city of Alwar transforms into a living museum of colour, sound, and festivity during the Matsya Festival – one of Rajasthan’s most vibrant cultural fairs. The Matsya Festival 2025 is not just a local celebration; it’s a grand showcase of the state’s folk heritage, craftsmanship, royal traditions, and warm hospitality.
Whether you’re a traveller seeking offbeat destinations in Rajasthan, a culture enthusiast wanting to experience folk music and dance, or a photographer drawn to vivid Indian festivals, this travel guide has everything you need to plan your visit — from dates, events, and highlights to how to reach Alwar and where to stay.
In this Blog
Matsya Festival 2025 Dates, Venue & Overview
Dates: 23rd to 26th November 2025
Venue: Alwar City, Rajasthan
Organised by: Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan
The Matsya Festival 2025 will take place across key venues in Alwar such as the Bala Qila Fort, Siliserh Lake, and stadium grounds where stages, craft stalls, and food courts will be set up.
This four-day festival is a deep dive into the legacy of the Matsya Kingdom, one of the oldest regions in India’s recorded history. The term Matsya comes from Sanskrit, meaning fish — and the ancient Matsya Kingdom was said to be one of the sixteen Mahajanapadas mentioned in early Vedic texts. Today, the festival keeps that glorious past alive through folk art, music, dance, local games, and traditional cuisine.
Highlights of the Matsya Festival 2025
The Matsya Festival offers something for everyone — from music lovers and foodies to adventure seekers and art collectors. Here’s a look at the top highlights:
1. Folk Music & Dance Performances
Immerse yourself in the beats of Ghoomar, Kalbelia, Bhavai, and Chari dances — each representing a different tribe and tradition of Rajasthan. These performances, often accompanied by live drumming and traditional instruments like the dhol and algoza, are a window into Rajasthan’s soul.
Every evening, the main stage in Alwar lights up with folk artists, fusion bands, and cultural troupes performing under the stars — a sight no traveller should miss.
2. Handicrafts & Artisan Bazaars
One of the biggest draws of the Matsya Festival is its handicraft fair, featuring local artisans from across Rajasthan. Explore rows of stalls displaying block-printed textiles, miniature paintings, blue pottery, leatherwork, and silver jewellery — all handmade and often passed down through generations.
Buy souvenirs directly from the craftsmen, learn their stories, and experience the art of Rajasthani craftsmanship firsthand.
3. Royal Cuisine & Street Food Fiesta
A trip to any Rajasthan festival is incomplete without its food. The Matsya Festival 2025 brings together dozens of stalls serving authentic dishes like Dal Baati Churma, Gatte ki Sabzi, Bajre ki Roti, Mirchi Bada, and the iconic Alwar Kalakand — a sweet that put the city on India’s culinary map.
Pair your meals with masala chai, lassi, or a local favourite, Rajasthani thandai, and you’ll taste why Rajasthan’s food is as famous as its forts.
4. Adventure Activities & Sports Competitions
The festival isn’t just about culture — it’s packed with excitement too. You can participate in or watch traditional sports like kabaddi, wrestling, tug-of-war, and camel races, or experience modern activities like hot-air ballooning, zorbing, archery, and parasailing.
For thrill-seekers, Siliserh Lake offers boating and adventure sports that make Alwar one of the top adventure destinations in Rajasthan during winter.
5. Heritage Walks & Sightseeing in Alwar
The Matsya Festival is also an invitation to explore the heritage sites of Alwar. Visit the grand Bala Qila (Alwar Fort) for panoramic views, or stroll through City Palace, which houses the Alwar Museum filled with ancient manuscripts, royal armour, and paintings.
Don’t miss the Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri, Siliserh Lake, and Sariska Tiger Reserve, which is just a short drive away.
How to Reach Alwar
Alwar is well-connected by road, rail, and air to all major cities in North India.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport (approx. 150 km). From there, you can hire a cab or take a train to Alwar.
- By Train: Alwar Junction is connected to Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, and Jodhpur. Trains like Shatabdi Express make the journey quick and comfortable.
- By Road: Located on the Delhi-Jaipur highway, Alwar is a scenic 3-hour drive from Delhi and a 2-hour drive from Jaipur. Buses and private taxis are easily available.
Best Time to Visit Alwar
The best time to visit Alwar is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for outdoor sightseeing and cultural festivals. The Matsya Festival in November is perfectly timed at the onset of winter, making it an ideal period to enjoy Rajasthan’s charm without the desert heat.
Average temperature: 15°C–25°C
What to pack: Light woollens, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to capture the vibrant festivities.
Where to Stay During the Matsya Festival 2025
While Alwar has a few boutique hotels and heritage stays, many travellers prefer to stay in Jaipur, which offers a richer selection of premium villas and resorts — all within comfortable driving distance from the festival venue. Jaipur is just about 2 hours and 55 minutes from Alwar by road, making it ideal for those who want to pair their festival visit with a luxurious getaway in Rajasthan’s capital.
Here are some exceptional villas and resorts near Alwar where you can unwind in comfort after your cultural adventures:
1. Eleganza Villas & Resort, Jaipur
A stunning modern retreat that perfectly blends Rajasthani charm with contemporary elegance. With its serene lawns, private pool, and curated interiors, Eleganza Villas & Resort is ideal for families and groups attending the Matsya Festival 2025 who want a touch of indulgence and calm after the festivities.
2. Ricassa Crown, Jaipur
This lavish villa redefines grandeur with its palatial architecture, opulent bedrooms, and expansive outdoor sit-outs. Located in the peaceful outskirts of Jaipur, Ricassa Crown offers the perfect mix of privacy, luxury, and convenience — a short scenic drive from Alwar’s cultural fair.
3. Cassias, Jaipur
For travellers who prefer minimalism and design-driven spaces, Cassias brings together modern aesthetics and homely comfort. The villa’s lush surroundings, private pool, and warm ambience make it a favourite among couples and small groups visiting Rajasthan in November.
4. Talin Farms, Jaipur
Nestled amidst nature, Talin Farms offers a peaceful countryside escape with open lawns, a swimming pool, and rustic-luxury interiors. It’s perfect for guests who wish to combine the energy of the Matsya Festival with the tranquility of a farm-style stay experience.
Suggested 3-Day Itinerary for Matsya Festival 2025
Day 1: Arrive in Alwar, check in to your hotel, and explore City Palace and Moosi Maharani ki Chhatri. In the evening, attend the opening ceremony of the Matsya Festival.
Day 2: Enjoy a full day at the festival — watch folk performances, taste local food, shop for handicrafts, and try adventure activities at Siliserh Lake.
Day 3: Take a morning heritage walk, visit Bala Qila, and head to Sariska Tiger Reserve before departing.
Travel Tips for Visitors
- Carry cash and UPI options, as smaller vendors may not accept cards.
- Wear comfortable footwear and light cotton during the day.
- Keep a reusable water bottle and sunscreen handy.
- Book train or accommodation in advance as the city gets busy during the festival.
- Respect local traditions — seek permission before photographing performers.
- Explore offbeat Alwar villages nearby for an authentic local experience.
Why You Should Attend Matsya Festival 2025
The Matsya Festival in Alwar isn’t just an event — it’s an experience. It offers a rare chance to witness Rajasthan’s timeless traditions, from folk dance and crafts to royal processions and community spirit. You’ll leave with not just photos, but stories, flavours, and memories that define the soul of India.
So if you’ve been planning a trip to Rajasthan in November 2025, let Alwar and the Matsya Festival be on top of your list. Come for the culture, stay for the colours, and return with a heart full of Rajasthan’s warmth.
The Matsya Festival 2025 is a window into Rajasthan’s royal legacy, offering a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, music, and community spirit. Whether you’re exploring Alwar for the first time or returning for another Rajasthan road trip, this festival promises moments of magic that go far beyond sightseeing.
Pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and let Alwar’s Matsya Festival show you what makes Rajasthan’s festivals the heartbeat of Indian heritage.
