India isn’t just about Bollywood and classical music — it’s also home to a vibrant live music scene with some of the most exciting and diverse music festivals in Asia. From EDM and indie to folk and metal, music festivals in India offer unforgettable experiences, bringing together artists, cultures, and fans from around the world.
Here’s a curated list of the Top 10 Music Festivals in India that every music lover should explore at least once.
1. NH7 Weekender – Pune, Shillong & More
Genre: Indie, Rock, Hip-Hop, Fusion
Why Go? Known as the “Happiest Music Festival,” NH7 Weekender is a favorite for fans of live indie and alternative music. With multiple stages and a laid-back vibe, it features both Indian and international artists.
2. Sunburn Festival – Goa
Genre: EDM, Electronic, House
Why Go? Asia’s biggest EDM festival, Sunburn is pure energy. With world-famous DJs, massive stages, beach vibes, and neon lights, it’s a paradise for electronic music fans.
3. Ziro Festival of Music – Arunachal Pradesh
Genre: Indie, Folk, Experimental
Why Go? Held in the scenic Ziro Valley, this is India’s most picturesque and eco-friendly music festival. It blends indie music with tribal culture and breathtaking landscapes.
✅ Don’t Miss: Camping under the stars and acoustic sets in pine forests.
4. Magnetic Fields – Rajasthan
Genre: Electronica, Experimental, Global Fusion
Why Go? A luxurious desert music festival set in a 17th-century palace in Alsisar, Magnetic Fields offers a surreal blend of heritage, underground music, and visual art.
✅ Don’t Miss: Parties, rooftop sunrise sets, and desert soundscapes.
5. Ragasthan – Rajasthan
Genre: Folk, World Music, Indie
Why Go? A desert camping festival that celebrates music, art, and culture in Jaisalmer’s dunes. Perfect for those who love both music and adventure.
✅ Don’t Miss: Local Rajasthani folk fusion and indie music mashups.
6. Hornbill Music Festival – Nagaland
Genre: Rock, Metal, Folk
Why Go? Part of the larger Hornbill Festival, this event is a hub for rock and metal lovers, featuring emerging artists from across Northeast India and beyond.
✅ Don’t Miss: Battle of the Bands and tribal performances.
7. Vh1 Supersonic – Pune
Genre: EDM, Techno, Hip-Hop
Why Go? A modern multi-genre festival with a massive stage setup and a young, energetic crowd. It brings international headliners along with Indian electronic stars.
✅ Don’t Miss: Festival markets, wellness zones, and crazy after-parties.
8. Mahindra Blues Festival – Mumbai
Genre: Blues, Jazz
Why Go? Asia’s biggest blues festival, this one is for real music connoisseurs. Held at Mumbai’s iconic Mehboob Studios, it brings legendary blues musicians to Indian shores.
✅ Don’t Miss: Jams between Indian and international blues legends.
9. Echoes of Earth – Bengaluru
Genre: Electronic, World, Live Experimental
Why Go? India’s greenest music festival that blends art, sustainability, and music in eco-conscious ways. Perfect for those who care about the planet and music.
✅ Don’t Miss: Installations made from recycled materials and ambient live sets.
10. SulaFest – Nashik
Genre: Pop, Reggae, Electronica, Fusion
Why Go? Held in the vineyards of Sula Wines, this boutique festival mixes music, wine, gourmet food, and fashion. It’s more like a celebration of life than just a music fest.
✅ Don’t Miss: Wine tastings, vineyard tours, and sunset sets.
🎟️ Tips for Attending Indian Music Festivals:
- Book tickets early – many festivals sell out fast.
- Carry your ID and follow entry rules (especially at wine/EDM festivals).
- Check weather and pack accordingly (Ziro = cold, Sunburn = beachwear).
- Explore local culture and food around the festival – it’s part of the experience!
📝 Final Thoughts
India’s music festival scene is booming, and each festival brings something unique to the table — whether it’s the soulful tranquility of Ziro, the bass-thumping madness of Sunburn, or the cultural richness of Hornbill. So if you’re looking to discover music beyond your playlist, pack your bags and head to one of these iconic festivals.
Let the music lead the way.