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Vautha Mela: An enchanting fair where tradition meets trade

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Major Airports :

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD)

Major Airports :

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (AMD)

Where rivers converge, cultures merge

Vautha Mela, an extraordinary five-day festival, is a harmonious blend of tradition and commerce, attracting over 500,000 visitors annually. It's a place where devotees, farmers, traders, and artisans converge, creating a fascinating weave of culture and trade. Imagine Pushkar Mela's pulsating energy, but with a captivating twist – the trade of donkeys.

The location of Vautha Mela at the riverbanks of Vautha is significant. The site is called Saptasangam, which indicates the meeting of seven holy rivers – the river Vatrak merging with the Meshwo, Hathmati, Shedhi, Majum and Khari before it then meets the Sabarmati. It also finds its roots in ancient mythology. Legend has it that Kartikeya, the son of Lord Shiva, performed a sacred ritual on the riverbank here during Kartik Poornima. People from all corners of India gather here to take a holy dip in the confluence waters. As the sun sets, the riverside transforms into a mesmerising spectacle as thousands of lamps and fragrant flowers float downstream during evening prayers. The fair's legends, rituals, and the enchanting confluence of rivers are all integral to Gujarat's heritage.

The festive revelry: Traditions and experiences

It's a celebration that transcends boundaries, uniting communities in a shared reverence for this sacred event. Here, the Bhil and Rabari tribes breathe life into the festival with their unique traditions. At the heart of the festival, you'll encounter a spectacle of beautifully decorated donkeys and camels, donning colourful ornaments and paints. It's a captivating juxtaposition of tradition and trade, where the mundane becomes magical.

Beyond the animal market, Vautha Mela offers a veritable treasure of local handicrafts, delectable cuisines, and cultural performances. The fairgrounds come alive with traders, artisans, and visitors navigating a labyrinth of stalls. Families camp in tents near the fairgrounds, creating a tent city where each day brings a different sweet dish, with Khichu as a popular favourite. The Vautha Mela is a kaleidoscope of experiences.

Experiencing Vautha Mela as a tourist: A cultural fusion

As a tourist, Vautha Mela promises a journey unlike any other. Wander through bustling markets, haggle for exquisite handicrafts, and savour the rich variety of local cuisine. Witness age-old rituals against the serene backdrop of the flowing rivers, where the evening transforms into a mystical realm adorned with floating diyas. Engage with the Bhil and Rabari tribes, immersing yourself in Gujarat's captivating cultural mosaic. Vautha Mela offers a sensory voyage, from busy bazaars to tranquil riverbanks, leaving you with cherished memories of this unique cultural fusion.


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Essential information

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Venue

Vautha

Dates

23 Nov 2023 - 27 Nov 2023

Ticket

No

A uniquely woven cultural fabric

In the heart of Gujarat's cultural landscape, Vautha Mela stands tall as a testament to tradition and trade seamlessly interwoven into a grand celebration. This five-day extravaganza, where donkeys and camels take centerstage, beckons travellers to embark on a profound exploration of Gujarat's rich heritage and cultural diversity. The confluence of the rivers adds a spiritual aura, welcoming pilgrims from diverse backgrounds. Vautha Mela is an immersion into Gujarat's soul. Whether you're drawn by the trade, traditions, or tantalising flavours, this festival will etch an indelible mark on your cultural journey through Gujarat.

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