--> Skip to main content


Kavar Mela in Shravan Month in Uttarakhand

Kavar Mela is observed in the Shravan Month (July – August) in Uttarakhand State in India. The Kavar Mela 2024 at Haridwar is from July 22. Shiva devotees carry holy water from the Gangotri glacier and take it to the Shiva temple in Garhmukteshwar or Neelkanth. Devout Hindus who carry the holy Ganga Water to the Shiva Temple is known as Kavar.

In 2024, Shravan month in North India begins on July 22 and ends on August 19.

Some Kavars also carry the holy water from the Ganges River to Shiva temple in their respective village. They are popularly known as Kanwaris and they travel from their homes in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and other places in North India to Haridwar, Rishikesh, Gaumukh and to the origin of River Ganga in Uttarakhand.

The water is carried in pot or bottle and is tied on the two ends of a bamboo pole and is never kept on the ground.

It must be noted that thousands of people travel in the Shravan month to collect Ganga Water and this results in unruly scenes on the road. Kanwaris are known to get into fight with local people and motorists.

The pilgrims travel on foot and in vehicles. They are known to play loud music and chant Bol Bom.

Women and foreigners should avoid getting into the crowd of Kanwariyas.