Rajasthan is known for its palaces, forts, and deserts, but in October, the spotlight shifts to music and culture. The Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF), held every year in Jodhpur, is one of India’s most celebrated cultural events. It is not just a festival — it’s an experience where ancient traditions meet global creativity.
In 2025, the Rajasthan International Folk Festival will take place from 2nd to 6th October 2025 at the magnificent Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur. Timed with Sharad Purnima, the brightest full moon of the year, RIFF offers an unforgettable atmosphere under the moonlit skies of Rajasthan.
What is Rajasthan International Folk Festival?
The Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF) was started in 2007 under the patronage of Maharaja Gaj Singh of Jodhpur and supported by UNESCO as a platform for intangible cultural heritage. It is to promote folk music, dance and art of Rajasthan and connect them with artists from around the world.
Over the years RIFF has had collaborations between Manganiyar musicians, Kalbelia dancers, African drummers, jazz artists and European classical musicians. It’s not just entertainment — it’s about bridging cultures through music. The venue Mehrangarh Fort adds a royal backdrop to every performance making it truly magical.
Rajasthan International Folk Festival 2025 Dates, Timings & Venue
- Dates: 2nd October – 6th October 2025
- Venue: Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
- Festival Timings: Events start early morning (sunrise concerts) and go late into the night with moonlit performances.
More than 400 feet above Jodhpur city, Mehrangarh Fort becomes the cultural center for those five days. The courtyards and terraces are turned into open-air stages where the guests can listen to the music while enjoying the moon and stars.
Highlights of RIFF 2025
The 2025 edition is set to be an exciting showcase of folk artists, international performers, and unique cultural experiences.
During the day, visitors can participate in workshops and interactive sessions for learning about instruments from Rajasthan such as Kamaicha and Khartal. The evenings are filled with folk songs, fusion bands, and international collaborations. The most unforgettable event is the Full Moon Concert on the night of Sharad Purnima, when the fort shines in silver light which is an experience like no other.
Dance is also a key component of the festival. Traditional dances like Kalbelia (the snake dance) and Ghoomar serve to energize and enhance the colorfulness of the festival. Puppet shows, storytelling, and art exhibits make it equally entertaining for families and cultural adventurers.
How to Reach Jodhpur for RIFF
Getting to Jodhpur is convenient by air, train, and road:
- By Air: Jodhpur Airport (JDH) has direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Udaipur.
- By Train: Jodhpur Junction is well connected with major cities in India: Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Jaipur.
- By Road: Regular buses and taxis operate from Jaipur, Jaisalmer, and Udaipur.
After getting to Jodhpur, auto rickshaws and cabs are readily available to take you to Mehrangarh Fort.
Where to Stay in Jodhpur During RIFF
Accommodation in Jodhpur gets filled up fast during RIFF, so book in advance. Options range from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses:
- Luxury Stays: Umaid Bhawan Palace, RAAS Jodhpur, Taj Hari Mahal
- Mid-Range Hotels: Ajit Bhawan, Ratan Vilas, Devi Bhawan
- Budget Options: Guesthouses and hostels near the Clock Tower and old city
For the best experience, stay close to the old city so you can enjoy both the festival and the blue streets.
Food & Experiences Around Jodhpur
Jodhpur is as famous for its food as its music. During the festival, visitors can enjoy local delicacies like Mirchi Vada, Dal Baati Churma, Pyaaz Kachori, and Makhania Lassi. Don’t miss exploring the Sardar Market and Clock Tower for spices and handicrafts.
For sightseeing, combine your trip with nearby attractions such as Jaswant Thada, Mandore Gardens, Osian temples, and Bishnoi village tours. Many tourists also pair RIFF with a visit to Jaisalmer or Udaipur.
Why RIFF is Special
What makes RIFF unique is its authenticity. Unlike commercial music festivals, RIFF proudly celebrates Rajasthan’s traditions while embracing a global outlook. UNESCO has recognized it as a platform for promoting cultural heritage.
The setting — Mehrangarh Fort under a full moon night — is something you won’t find anywhere else in the world. The festival also fosters meaningful collaborations, where international musicians perform alongside Rajasthani folk artists, creating once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Final Thoughts
Rajasthan International Folk Festival 2025 is not just an event — it’s Rajasthan’s soul. Imagine singing folk songs under the moonlight at Mehrangarh Fort, meeting artists from around the world and soaking in the vibes of Jodhpur.
If you’re planning to visit Rajasthan, mark 2nd to 6th October 2025 in your calendar. Book your stay early, get your passes and get ready for a cultural trip of a lifetime at Jodhpur RIFF 2025.
Plan Your RIFF 2025 Trip with Rajasthan Places
The Rajasthan International Folk Festival 2025 is the excuse to visit Jodhpur, but why stop there? Rajasthan has so much more to offer — from the golden dunes of Jaisalmer to the palaces of Jaipur and the lakes of Udaipur.
At Rajasthan Places, we help you experience the best of Rajasthan with customized travel packages, guided tours and hassle free bookings. Whether you need:
- A complete Golden Triangle with Jodhpur RIFF tour
- Hotel bookings near Mehrangarh Fort
- Or a curated Rajasthan itinerary covering forts, festivals and food
👉 We’ve got you covered.
📩Get in touch to plan your RIFF 2025 trip and experience Rajasthan like never before!
FAQs on Rajasthan International Folk Festival 2025
Every year, artists and organizers proudly host the Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF) at Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur. As a result, this famous cultural event celebrates Rajasthan’s rich heritage and attracts visitors from around the world. It brings together local Rajasthani folk musicians, dancers, and global artists on one stage. Recognized by UNESCO, the festival highlights the state’s rich traditions while encouraging collaborations with world music performers.
In India, the most famous international folk festival is the Jodhpur RIFF (Rajasthan International Folk Festival). Every October, Rajasthan hosts one of the country’s leading platforms for folk, traditional, and world music. While India hosts many cultural events, RIFF stands out because of its global participation, its timing with Sharad Purnima, and its majestic venue inside Mehrangarh Fort.
From 2nd to 6th October 2025, organizers will proudly host the Jodhpur Music Festival 2025, officially known as the Rajasthan International Folk Festival, at Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur. The event features sunrise concerts, full moon night performances, and workshops on folk traditions. If you are planning to attend, book tickets early and secure your stay in Jodhpur, as the city attracts thousands of music lovers during this time.
Every year, Rajasthan hosts the world-famous Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF) in Jodhpur. It proudly serves as a “people’s platform for folk, roots, and world music.” Moreover, artists from Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas perform alongside Rajasthani musicians, creating unique cross-cultural experiences. Therefore, this event becomes more than a regional festival — it transforms into a true world music celebration set against the breathtaking backdrop of Mehrangarh Fort.