From serene classical vibes to jaw-dropping DJ sets, India as a country is a playground for music lovers with multiple festivals happening throughout the year. They are a great way to experience different kinds of music and have fun with friends. Here are 10 music festivals in India in no particular order that you might enjoy:
1.Bandland
Bandland is India’s premier music festival, primarily dedicated to rock and metal, celebrated for its electrifying lineup and unforgettable energy. Held in Bengaluru, the festival has quickly become a cornerstone of India’s music scene since its first edition in 2023, bringing together international sensations like Avenged Sevenfold, Extreme, Deep Purple, Goo Goo Dolls, and Indian acts like Bloodywood, Thaikkudam Bridge, Parikrama, and more under the same roof. But Bandland is more than a stage for music – it’s an immersive experience that offers a homely atmosphere for music enthusiasts. From the echo of iconic rock anthems to the thrill of discovering new talent, Bandland is an unmissable event for music lovers who crave energy, excitement, and a sense of belonging.
2. Lollapalooza India
Lollapalooza India is where rock, pop, hip-hop, and electronic music meet unbeatable vibes! As the local edition of the iconic global festival, it has become a major highlight of India’s cultural calendar. The 2024 lineup had us grooving to legends like Sting, Jonas Brothers, Halsey, and One Republic, alongside Indian gems like The Raghu Dixit Project and When Chai Met Toast. But hold onto your hats, because the 2025 edition, set for March 8-9 in Mumbai, is turning up the volume with Green Day, Shawn Mendes, Louis Tomlinson, and more.
3. Ziro Festival
In the heart of Arunachal Pradesh’s Ziro Valley, the Ziro Festival celebrates the rich sounds of indie, alternative, folk, and world music, redefining India’s music scene since 2012. Known for its vibrant mix of genres, the festival is as much about culture as it is about music. The 2024 edition brought together artists like Kailash Kher, Hanumankind, Parvaaz, Sutej Singh, Sushant KC, and more, creating a four-day musical extravaganza. But the experience doesn’t stop with music. Attendees also get to discover the traditions of the Apatani tribe, set against the valley’s serene beauty. With its eco-friendly initiatives and cultural immersion, Ziro Festival is the perfect mix of music, nature, and heritage– a must for anyone seeking an extraordinary escape.
4. Echoes of Earth
Echoes of Earth, India’s greenest music festival, focuses on environmental themes with a mix of genres, including indie and electronic music, celebrated for its commitment to sustainability. Held in Bangalore and Goa, the festival features stages and installations crafted from recycled materials, aligning with its eco-friendly ethos. The 2024 edition boasted a diverse lineup of over 40 acts, blending international talent with a host of Indian artists. Beyond music, Echoes of Earth offers immersive art installations and workshops centered on environmental conservation, providing attendees with a holistic experience that harmonizes artistic expression with ecological responsibility.
5. Mahindra Independence Rock
For rock enthusiasts in India, Mahindra Independence Rock stands as the ultimate celebration of rock music, featuring various sub-genres that span the spectrum of the genre. Since 1986, this iconic event at Mumbai has been instrumental in shaping the nation’s music scene, providing a platform for both emerging and established rock and metal bands, fostering a vibrant community of musicians and fans. The 30th edition brought the house down with electrifying performances by Bloodywood, Motherjane, Indus Creed, and the epic reunion of Kerala’s rock veterans 13AD. With its rich history and unwavering commitment to rock music, Mahindra Independence Rock remains a mecca for fans and musicians alike.
6. Sunburn Festival
Since its launch in 2007, Sunburn Festival has been the ultimate destination for electronic dance music (EDM) enthusiasts, earning its reputation as Asia’s largest EDM festival. Held annually in Goa, the festival attracts fans from across the globe with its world-class lineups and unparalleled energy. The 2024 edition, set for December 28-30 at Dhargalim in North Goa, promises electrifying performances from headliners like Skrillex, Peggy Gou, and Alesso. Beyond the beats, Sunburn offers a fully immersive experience with spectacular stage designs, dazzling pyrotechnics, and an array of food and drink options. With its fusion of sun, sand, and pulsating music, Sunburn is a must-attend event for EDM aficionados.
7. Magnetic Fields
Magnetic Fields Festival, India’s top boutique music and arts event, has emerged as a distinctive experience for music enthusiasts, renowned for its eclectic mix of electronic and contemporary music. Set against the grand backdrop of Alsisar Mahal in Rajasthan, the festival seamlessly combines modern music, art, and the region’s vibrant cultural heritage. Offering a diverse range of performances, from electronic to indie and experimental sounds, it goes beyond a typical music festival. The majestic royal architecture of Alsisar Mahal creates a breathtaking setting for this immersive experience. In addition to the music, the festival includes art installations, workshops, and cultural activities, celebrating both creativity and tradition in a truly unique way.
8. Hornbill Music Festival
Hornbill Music Festival, often hailed as the “Festival of Festivals,” primarily showcases traditional Naga music and culture, complemented by various contemporary genres. Held annually in Nagaland from December 1 to 10, this vibrant celebration transforms the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama into a cultural epicenter. Since its inception in 2000, the festival has celebrated Nagaland’s indigenous tribes through mesmerizing performances of traditional music, arts, and dances, while also embracing modern sounds. Visitors can indulge in traditional sports, indigenous games, and a feast of local delicacies. With its harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, Hornbill has become a global magnet for cultural and musical enthusiasts.
9. NH7 Weekender
NH7 Weekender, known as “India’s Happiest Music Festival,” has been a key part of the country’s music scene since 2010, showcasing multiple genres like pop, rock, metal, electronic, and indie, featuring both emerging and renowned artists like Steven Wilson, Poets of the Fall, Switchfoot, and Steve Vai. Beyond music, NH7 is famous for its lively atmosphere, with food stalls, cultural activities, and immersive experiences. The festival has been hosted in cities like Pune, Bengaluru, Delhi, and Kolkata, drawing music lovers nationwide. However, the 2024 edition in Pune was cancelled due to law-and-order concerns and traffic issues, leaving fans disappointed. Despite this setback, NH7 Weekender remains a staple in India’s cultural calendar, with hopes for future editions.
10. VH1 Supersonic
VH1 Supersonic is a leading multi-genre music festival in India, renowned for its diverse lineup and vibrant atmosphere. Since its launch in 2013, the festival has showcased a wide range of genres like EDM, rock, indie, pop, and reggae drawing music lovers from across the nation. Each edition creates an energetic celebration of music, culture, and community, with international headliners and a varied selection of artists, cementing its status as one of India’s top music festivals.
