Rudraprayag Makar Sankranti Mela

The Makar Sankranti Mela at Rudraprayag is held at the sacred confluence (sangam) of the Alaknanda and Mandakini rivers. Thousands of devotees take a holy dip at the sangam on the auspicious day of Makar Sankranti. The fair features deity processions from nearby villages, with devtas (local deities) carried in decorated palanquins accompanied by traditional dhol-damau music. Folk dance performances, especially the Garhwali Thandya and Chaufula, are highlights. Local handicrafts, woollen textiles, and traditional foods are sold at the fairground. The setting at the confluence of two Himalayan rivers with ancient temples in the background makes it a picturesque event.