One of the best things to see in the Rajasthani town of Kolayat, which is in the district of Bikaner, is the Kolayat Fair, which is held on a large scale. A story from the area says that the holy Kolayat Lake was where the Great Sage Kapil Muni meditated. People think that Kapil Muni meditated on this ghat to save all people. This is one of the biggest fairs in the state, and the fun starts at the Kapil Muni Ghat and spreads to the other 51 ghats around the Kolayat Lake.
Dates and history
27th to 28th November, 2025
As soon as the fair starts in the early morning, devotees do different kinds of practices at the ghats and take holy dips in Kolayat Lake. The most beautiful thing about the Kolayat Fair is seeing the ghats of the Kolayat Lake all dressed up. During the Sandhya Aarti in the evening, the lake is a sight to behold. During the Deep Malika celebration, earthen lamps are lit and float on the water of the lake. This is meant to be a beautiful sight. During the Kolayat show, there is a cattle show where people can buy and sell horses, camels, and buffalo.
Popularity and key Highlights
- Performances of Devotional and Religious Music: Artists play Sufi songs, Mand raag songs, and Bhavai dance, making the atmosphere holy and spiritual.
- Performances by Mimicry Artists: The event is made more fun and funny with performances by mime artists.
- Chari Dance: Chari Dance is a beautiful Rajasthani folk dance in which people balance pots on their heads while dancing, showing off their amazing skill and respect for tradition.
- Punjabi Folk Dance: The event is filled with the lively culture of Punjab through high-energy Bhangra and Gidda performances.
- Rajasthani Folk Dance: The rhythmic movements and bright costumes of traditional Kalbelia and Ghoomar shows captivate the crowd.
- Rajasthani Folk Singers: Renowned artists play soulful Rajasthani folk music that adds to the festival’s culture feel.
- Kathputli (Puppet) Performances: Interesting Rajasthani puppet shows tell folk stories through facial expressions and dialogue.
- Bagpiper Artists: The event has lively performances by bagpipes musicians, who add a unique sound to the music.
- Kachhi Ghodi Artists: Dancers in traditional dummy horse outfits put on exciting shows to greet guests.
Visitors will remember the Matsya Utsav for a long time because it combines spirituality, ethnic diversity, and fun. As a part of Marwar, other than Bikaner, there are various nearby cities which provide you with the dynamic nature of tradition that are followed in Rajasthan. If you are in Bikaner, you must not miss visiting Udaipur, where you will see a wide range of Aravali hills. Want to feel more relaxed on your trip to Udaipur? We, at Goya Hills, provide you an ultimate comfort with various luxury facilities such as private jacuzzi, lush green garden and spacious living area.
