Butter Festival

Name: Butter Festival
Start: 2026-08-15
End: 2026-08-18
Location: Raithal, Uttarkashi

The Butter Festival, locally known as Anduri Utsav or Makhan Holi, is a unique cultural celebration held in the high-altitude meadows of Dayara Bugyal near Raithal, Uttarakhand. Scheduled for August 15–18 in 2026, the event features participants smearing butter and buttermilk on each other in a manner similar to the Holi festival. It honors the seasonal return of cattle from alpine pastures and expresses gratitude for healthy livestock and abundant milk production.

Date: Aug 15-18, 2026
Location: Raithal, Uttarkashi
Lunar date: Âm lịch

+ Add ICS

Event summary

Highlights

Makhan Holi involving the playful smearing of butter and buttermilk
Traditional folk performances including Dhimai and Mithi dances
Celebration held in the scenic Dayara Bugyal alpine meadows
Commemoration of cattle returning from high-altitude summer pastures

The Butter Festival, or Anduri Utsav, is a traditional celebration rooted in the pastoral heritage of Raithal village in Uttarkashi. Every summer, local shepherds move their cattle to the lush meadows of Dayara Bugyal for grazing. The festival occurs around Bhadrapad Sankranti in August to celebrate the homecoming of these animals. While historical rituals once involved playfully throwing cow dung, modern celebrations use butter and buttermilk to symbolize the blessings of Lord Krishna and the meadow goddess, Bugyal Mata.

During the festivities, the pristine Himalayan meadows serve as a stage for ritualistic prayers, folk performances like Dhimai and Mithi, and the traditional Dahi-handi. The highlight is the 'Makhan Holi,' where locals and visitors engage in a playful exchange of dairy products. The event has grown as a significant tourism attraction, often incorporated into travel packages that include trekking expeditions, musical nights, and overnight camping in the scenic Uttarkashi region.

Practical details

Location described by the source: Dayara Bugyal; www.indiatoday.in
Area for browsing nearby events: Raithal, Uttarkashi

Before attending

Check the sources below for current opening times, admission prices and registration requirements. A date range does not mean the event runs continuously or that admission is free.