On a hunt for your better half? Get ready for a magical journey to find love at Tarnetar Mela in Gujarat, where the quest for life partners takes centre stage. Beyond its role as a matchmaking haven, the fair is a vibrant celebration of Gujarat's rich cultural tapestry. Showcasing folk art and captivating performances, Tarnetar Mela offers entertainment that transcends romantic pursuits, keeping attendees enthralled till the very end. The heart of the festivities lies in the dance and music, an unmissable spectacle that adds rhythm to the cultural richness.
Attracting over 50,000 attendees annually, the fair has evolved into a cultural hub in Saurashtra, actively involving various castes like Kolis, Khants, Kathis, and more. Tarnetar Mela's growing renown extends beyond the region, drawing visitors from across the country, solidifying its status as a must-visit cultural extravaganza in Gujarat. Here you go!
Date & Venue of Tarnetar Mela 2024
Tarnetar Mela will take place from 5th September till 7th September in Gujarat.
History of Tarnetar Mela
As per the legends, Tarnetar Mela is being organized since antiquity. Its origin is linked to the swayamvar of Draupadi.
During the swayamvar, one of the Pandavas, Arjuna performed a fiendishly difficult task of piercing the rotating fish’s eye with his arrow, just by looking at its reflection. Achieving this feat, he won the hand of Draupadi.
Historically, this festival finds its origin some 200-250 years back. The Tarnetar Mela is held near the temple of lord Triniteshwar Mahadev which is located near the banks of a rivulet.
It is believed that the Ganga River used to flow through this point in the past. People now also take a holy dip in the temple tank, which is known to be extremely auspicious.
Major attractions of Tarnetar Fair 2024 in Gujarat
1. Fun and Food
There are stalls for food, games, etc. which can keep your children engaged as well. The tourism of the state offers packages for people coming to visit the Tarnetar Fair and provides them accommodation and more.
2. Gujarat’s Heritage
Tarnetar Mela showcases Gujarat’s music, folk dance, arts, and costumes. It is also about young men and women of the state finding an ideal marriage partner for themselves.
3. Special Dances
The dancers here are like no other. The drum is played all through the day while dancers surge in circular movement following the beat of the drums. A variety of folk dances are also performed. The most famous one is the Raas. Similar to Garba, here dancers hold little sticks and clack against those of nearby dancers. It has been a record that as many as 200 women take part in this dance. Mostly, the tunes of jodia pavas (double flutes) are played.
4. Shopping
The Tarnetar Mela puts on display beautiful local handicrafts which you can’t find anywhere else. Also, you can buy traditional attire with tiny mirror embroidery, ethnic jewelry, and even statues of deities.
5. Fun Activities
There are a lot of amazing rides here such as merry-go-round, roller-coaster, etc. There are also magic shows and photographers’ stalls. You can also get yourself a tattoo here as many tattoo artists attend the do as well.
How to Reach Tarnetar Mela 2024
To travel to Tarnetar, you will have to cover a total distance of about 1,072, 675, 2,151, 1,640 km from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru respectively. Check out the following details on how you can reach here.
By Air
The nearest domestic airport to Tarnetar is Rajkot Airport (RAJ), approximately 70-90 km away. For international travellers, Ahmedabad Airport (AMD) is the nearest, situated around 200 km from the village. Both airports have excellent connectivity with direct and connecting flights from various parts of the country, ensuring convenient air travel options to reach Tarnetar
By Rail
Situated 15 km away, Than Junction is the nearest station. Many express and superfast trains arrive at the station from major cities and states of India. Saurashtra Express, Surat Intercity, and Somnath Express are a few regular and frequent trains to Than junction. From the station, you will need to cover the remaining distance by taxi.
By Road
One can travel by roadways to this place either in inter-state or Intra-state tourist buses or may travel to the village in their personal vehicle. You can also opt for traveling in taxis.
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From Rajkot - 75 km via Rajkot Highway
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From Vadodra - 257 km via NH64 or NH47
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From Udaipur - 472 km via NH27
Conclusion
Tarnetar Mela, a cultural extravaganza in the heart of Gujarat, is a celebration of tradition, history, and vibrant festivities. With its roots intertwined with the legendary swayamvar of Draupadi, the fair showcases the rich cultural tapestry of India. From traditional dances to a unique matchmaking event, Tarnetar Mela is a captivating experience that immerses visitors in the diverse heritage of the region. Book via adotrip.com to witness the colourful celebrations and unique customs that make Tarnetar Mela a truly unforgettable cultural spectacle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tarnetar Mela
Q1. What is Tarnetar Mela, and where does it take place?
A1. Tarnetar Mela is a vibrant traditional fair held annually in the village of Tarnetar in Gujarat, India. It is known for its cultural significance and colourful festivities.
Q2. What is the historical and cultural importance of Tarnetar Mela?
A2. Tarnetar Mela holds historical significance as it commemorates the swayamvar (marriage ceremony) of Draupadi and attracts diverse communities showcasing their unique customs, rituals, and traditional arts.
Q3. When does Tarnetar Mela usually take place, and how long does it last?
A3. Tarnetar Mela is typically held in the months of August or September, coinciding with the Hindu festival of Raksha Bandhan. The duration of the fair spans several days, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the festivities.
Q4. What are the main attractions of Tarnetar Mela?
A4. The fair features a plethora of attractions, including traditional dances, folk music performances, handicraft exhibitions, and a vibrant cattle and camel fair. The highlight is the matchmaking event where young men and women participate in a unique swayamvar.
Q5. How can one plan a visit to Tarnetar Mela and are there accommodation options nearby?
A5. Visitors can plan their visit by checking the official dates of the Tarnetar Mela and make travel arrangements accordingly. Accommodation options, including hotels and guesthouses, are available in and around Tarnetar to ensure a comfortable stay during the festival.
You can plan your trip and create your own route to the city with Adotrip’s technically driven circuit planner. Click here