Ugadi, the New Year festival celebrated in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka, is a time of joy, devotion, and cultural festivities. Marking the beginning of a new Hindu lunar calendar, Ugadi is observed with temple visits, traditional feasts, and grand celebrations across South India. If you wish to experience the true spirit of Ugadi, here are some of the best places to visit in India during this festival.

1. Hyderabad, Telangana

Hyderabad is a prime destination for Ugadi celebrations, with temples and cultural centers hosting grand events. Some of the must-visit places include:

• Birla Mandir – Devotees gather for special Ugadi prayers and religious discourses.

• Chilkur Balaji Temple – One of the most visited temples, offering traditional Ugadi Pachadi.

• Lumbini Park and Shilparamam – Cultural programs, music, and dance performances showcase the festive spirit.

What to Expect?

• Special temple rituals and discourses

• Traditional Telugu cuisine featuring Ugadi Pachadi

• Cultural events, including classical dance and music

2. Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh

The city of Vijayawada, known for its religious and cultural significance, celebrates Ugadi with grandeur. The Kanaka Durga Temple is the main attraction, drawing thousands of devotees.

Highlights:

• Early morning temple rituals and processions

• Distribution of Panchanga Sravanam (New Year forecasts)

• Special Ugadi feasts featuring Pulihora (tamarind rice) and Bobbatlu (sweet flatbread)

3. Bengaluru, Karnataka

Karnataka celebrates Ugadi with a mix of spiritual and cultural activities. The capital city, Bengaluru, hosts grand festivities at temples like:

• ISKCON Temple – Special bhajans, kirtans, and prasadam distribution

• Dodda Ganesha Temple – Devotional gatherings and New Year blessings

• Bull Temple – Traditional Ugadi rituals and cultural programs

Key Attractions:

• Ugadi Pachadi and Karnataka’s Obbattu (Holige)

• Ugadi literary and music festivals

• Large-scale community gatherings

4. Hampi, Karnataka

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Hampi is a unique place to witness Ugadi celebrations with a historical touch. The temples and ruins come alive with traditional prayers and festivities.

Why Visit?

• Temple ceremonies in ancient Vijayanagara ruins

• Cultural performances including folk dances and Carnatic music

• A serene and spiritual environment amidst historic architecture

5. Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh

Home to the famous Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, Tirupati attracts thousands of pilgrims during Ugadi.

Festive Highlights:

• Grand temple rituals, including special poojas

• Free prasadam distribution

• Devotees seeking blessings for prosperity in the New Year

6. Mysuru, Karnataka

Mysuru blends tradition and grandeur in its Ugadi celebrations. The city’s palaces and temples, including the Chamundeshwari Temple, are decked in festive decor.

Ugadi Specialties in Mysuru:

• Public Ugadi celebrations with storytelling and folk performances

• Special Ugadi feasts served in traditional banana leaves

• Processions and temple visits

7. Udupi, Karnataka

The Sri Krishna Matha in Udupi is one of the most spiritual places to visit during Ugadi. The temple town is known for its devotion-filled celebrations.

Main Attractions:

• Elaborate temple rituals and Panchanga predictions

• Community feasts featuring traditional Udupi cuisine

• Religious discourses and bhajans

8. Warangal, Telangana

The Bhadrakali Temple in Warangal is a major destination for Ugadi devotees. The temple sees a massive influx of worshippers seeking blessings for the New Year.

What to Expect?

• Spiritual discourses and cultural programs

• Distribution of Ugadi Pachadi, symbolizing the flavors of life

• Traditional folk dances and musical performances

Conclusion

Ugadi is a festival of hope, renewal, and new beginnings. Whether you choose to visit Hyderabad’s grand temples, experience Karnataka’s rich cultural traditions, or seek divine blessings in Tirupati, these destinations offer a truly immersive Ugadi experience. Plan your travel to witness the vibrant celebrations and enjoy the authentic flavors of South India’s New Year festival.

FAQs

1. What is Ugadi Pachadi, and why is it significant?
Ugadi Pachadi is a unique dish made from six ingredients representing different emotions of life – sweet, sour, salty, bitter, spicy, and tangy – symbolizing the highs and lows of the coming year.

2. Which state celebrates Ugadi in the grandest manner?
Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka celebrate Ugadi with grandeur, with Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Tirupati being top destinations.

3. When is Ugadi celebrated in 2025?
Ugadi falls on March 30, 2025 (Sunday), based on the lunar calendar.

4. What traditional foods are eaten during Ugadi?
Popular Ugadi foods include Ugadi Pachadi, Obbattu (Holige), Pulihora, and various festive sweets and savories.

Plan your Ugadi trip now and embrace the festive spirit of South India's New Year!