Festival · RAJASTHAN
February (Magh Purnima) · Dungarpur
Massive tribal fair at the confluence of Som and Mahi rivers where Bhil tribals gather for a holy dip, folk dancing, and paying respects at the Baneshwar Mahadev Temple.
Why it mattersCalled the Kumbh of the tribals, this is one of Rajasthan's largest tribal gatherings, drawing over 100,000 Bhil devotees.
February brings the Baneshwar Fair to Dungarpur's doorstep. The tribal gathering at the Baneshwar temple (50 km from town) draws 200,000+ Bhil tribals for a three-day celebration at the confluence of the Som and Mahi rivers. It is one of India's largest tribal gatherings and almost unknown to international tourists.
Live in Dungarpur
Former royal palace turned heritage hotel. The Maharawal's family still lives in one wing. Art deco rooms, lakeside setting, and a history that spans 750 years. The most under-visited heritage hotel in Rajasthan.
SignatureRajput-kitchen Rajasthani thali
Pre-dinner drinks happen in the converted elephant-and-horse stables — ask for the 'car bar' specifically; it's the property's most-photographed corner and easy to miss.
SignaturePaneer butter masala
Ask for the day's sabzi; it's usually a Marwari preparation (lehsun, ker, sangri, or papad-ki-sabzi) cooked properly when the family is in.
Cash plus UPI both work. Open from 8 AM — earliest breakfast option in town.
Signatureunlimited Gujarati thali
Sister property to Hotel Surabhi next door — if Dungarpur Bhil-heartland stays are full, the rooms upstairs are a useful Sagwara base for Beneshwar Dham (40 km) or Ratanmahal Sloth Bear Sanctuary (Gujarat side, 55 km).
Seven-storied 13th-century palace-fortress with original frescoes, mirror work, and miniature paintings intact.
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