Photo by Abhinand Venugopal on Unsplash
Location
Jhiri, Jammu and Kashmir
Duration
7–10 days
Frequency
Annual
Language
Dogri, Hindi, English
Upcoming confirmed & estimated dates
2026
4 Nov – 13 Nov
estimated from historical pattern
Jhiri Mela in Jammu and Kashmir is a significant annual religious and cultural fair held in Jhiri village, approximately 20-25 kilometers from Jammu city. It commemorates the martyrdom of Baba Jittoo (also known as Baba Jitto or Jit Mal), a 16th-century Dogra farmer who sacrificed his life in protest against the oppressive demands of landlords. This event attracts lakhs of devotees from across North India, particularly from Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, and Jammu itself. The fair's focus on a local folk hero and its deep roots in agricultural traditions make it unique to this region, earning it the moniker "Farmers' Fair." Pilgrims and visitors come to pay homage to Baba Jittoo and his daughter Bua Kouri, take a holy dip in Baba-da-Talab, and experience local culture and traditional sports, reflecting the Dogra spirit of courage and justice. It is considered North India's second biggest fair after Pushkar Mela, appealing to pilgrims, cultural enthusiasts, and those interested in rural Indian traditions.
What to experience at this festival
Travel Tips
The festival typically falls in November, though dates can shift between late October and early December due to the lunar calendar (Kartik Purnima). Verify the exact dates for your intended year of visit well in advance, preferably six months out, to align with travel plans.
Jhiri village has limited accommodation options. It is advisable to book hotels in Jammu city, which is about 20-25 km away, and commute to the mela. Expect higher hotel prices in Jammu during the festival period due to increased demand.
While general entry to the Mela is free, some specific attractions or rides within the fair, like the underwater tunnel aquarium mentioned for 2025, may have small ticket fees. Keep small denominations of Indian Rupees (INR) for these and for purchasing from local vendors.
Jhiri Mela can attract up to 20 lakh visitors, leading to significant crowds, especially on the main day (Kartik Purnima). Be prepared for large gatherings, particularly around the temples and Baba-da-Talab.
