Three Festivals Worth Catching A Flight For.*

Festival season is in full swing, but I have a confession: I’ve never been to one. I don’t know why, as sitting in a field drinking and listening to music is pretty much my idea of a good time, but perhaps it’s the price tags that put me off – I can do that for free! However, there are some festivals that you’d be hard-pressed to replicate in your back garden, and I’ve picked three that are definitely worth travelling for!

Souce (top photo) | Source (bottom photo)

I can’t be the only person who’s constantly thinking about a dream holiday to Mauritius! Located in the Indian Ocean, about 1200 miles off the coast of Africa, I could really do with a week or two exploring there! There seems to be so much to do and see. Whether you’re after hikes along the rocky trails, getting to grips with the watersports on offer, or just lazing on the beach, I’m pretty sure this gorgeous island has you covered.

Mauritius may be fairly small, but it is a real melting pot of cultures. This is reflected in their national holidays, which are a blend of Hindu, Muslim, Buddhist and Christian festivals. Personally, I’d love to visit Mauritius during the Thaipoosam Cavadee festival, celebrated by the Tamil population. The story behind this festival goes as such: Idumban, a reformed bandit and a disciple of Agattiyar, was asked to fetch two mountain peaks and attach them to a cavadee (a pole used to carry loads). Lord Muruga had disguised himself as a young boy and was hidden in one of the peaks, making it much heavier. Idumban discovered him and started a fight, leading Lord Muruga to stab him with his spear. Agattiyar and his followers prayed for Idumban to be resurrected, and his wish was granted. Now, those who carry their own cavadee to temple are said to have their own wishes granted.

Ten days before the festival, there is a flag-hoisting ceremony at the temple, signalling a period of fasting, abstinence and prayer for devotees. During this time, they also build their cavadee structures – arcs of wood, bamboo, metal or plastic forming the shape of the sacred mountains. These are covered with bright, colourful flowers and feathers. On the day of the festival, devotees walk barefoot to a river or the sea to cleanse, and there are prayers and chanting as they purify themselves for the ceremony. Lots of devotees will have their tongues and cheeks pierced by small spears (representing Lord Muruga’s spear), while the men can also have their back and chest pierced too. When they reach the temple, the piercings are removed and offerings are made.

I would love to see this procession in real life, as it looks like a hugely colourful and spectacular event. Alongside music and food, there’s apparently also fire-walking and sword-climbing, which sounds dangerous but very impressive!

These three festivals are a bit different to those you see in the UK, aren’t they? But they make the most perfect excuse for a luxurious holiday to a far-flung place! Travelling gives you such a great opportunity to experience different cultures and learn what and how they celebrate. Destination2 have you covered if you’re looking for the perfect long-haul location. Just make sure you’re ready to party!