One of India's largest religious gatherings — held every year in the Hindu month of Phalgun.
The Phalgun Mela is one of the largest religious gatherings in Rajasthan and among the most attended pilgrimage events in northern India. Devotees believe that darshan during Phalgun Shukla Ekadashi carries the merit of a hundred yagnas.
Over three days, 20 to 30 lakh (2–3 million) devotees converge on the small town of Khatu. The streets fill with bhajans, the sky with blue dhwajas, and the air with incense and devotion. It is a profoundly moving experience for any believer.
Offering a blue flag at the temple is the most sacred act of this mela. Families queue for hours for this honour.
All-night bhajan sessions by renowned artists. The atmosphere is electric and deeply spiritual.
Thousands walk from Ringas to Khatu on foot as an act of devotion — a moving sight to witness.
Hotels, dharamshalas and guesthouses in Khatu and Ringas fill up weeks before the mela. Book at least 4–6 weeks in advance.
RSRTC runs special buses during the mela. If driving, start before 3–4 AM. Trains to Ringas will be heavily booked — reserve early.
Carry only essentials. Keep valuables minimal and secure. Medical posts are set up near the temple during the mela.
Large crowds + walking = exhaustion. Carry water. Free water and bhandara (langar) services are available from various organisations.
Keep children very close in the crowd. Agree on a meeting point in case of separation. Wear bright or matching colours as a family.
The mela continues through the night. Late-night (2–4 AM) often has shorter queues for darshan. Many devotees prefer this timing.