Indie and folk music lovers, you`re in for a huge treat. Starting September, India will see some of its coolest music festivals. After two years of uncertainity and virtual concerts. the biggest music festivals are back with your favorite independent artists lined up. From Ziro in Arunachal Pradesh to the majestic deserts of Jodhpur, book your calendars for a quick getaway with your music buffoons. 

1. Ziro Festival, Arunachal Pradesh

Nestled amidst the lush green Ziro Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, Ziro music festival is considered to be one of India`s eco-friendly festivals. Apart from the excellent line ups, what`s beautiful about it is how the ground is divided into two parts - Donyi (meaning sun) and Polo (means moon) - that have been crafted by the local artisans usinf supply from the valley itself. Since its inception in 2012, the festival has had some amazing independent artists such as Divine, Lee Ronaldo, Lucky Ali among others. After being postponed to 2021, Ziro music festival is making a comeback larger than ever. The recent lineup includes Pinky Doodle Poodle from Japan, Yelli Yelli from France and India’s very own OG rapper Baba Sehgal.

When: September 29 to October 2, 2022

How to reach: The closest airport is Northern Lakhimpur in Assam whichis140 kms away from Ziro Valley. You can also take an overnight train from Guwahati to Naharlagun, which is a 3-hour drive from Ziro.

Tickets: Day pass starts from INR 2,950 and a four-day pass will cost you INR 9,550.  

2. Jodhpur RIFF, Rajasthan

Imagine this - your favorite artists performing under a full moon night and you are soaking in the soothing desert vibes. Hosted in the majestic Merangarh Fort, the Jodhpur Rajasthan International Folk Festival is arguably India`s most prominent music festival that speaks about its roots and culture. Endorsed by HH Maharaja Gaj Singh of Marwar and superstar Sir Mick Jagger, it has featured several whose who of the independent and folk music industry. 

This year`s line up is rather interesting with artists like Warsi Brothers, Indian contemporary band Bombay Brass, Khasi folk musician Amabel Susngi, European Sinti Gypsy group Tabor, among others. Jodhpur RIFF also offers morning storytelling, music, and dance sessions for children. 

When: October 6 -10

How to reach: There are direct flights from most of the cities to Jodhpur. Train is another option if you want to opt for scenic route. 

Tickets: Day pass from INR 4,250 and full festive donor pass will cost you INR 10,625. Some shows can be accessed from museum where ticket prices are INR 100 for Indians and INR 600 for foreign nationals.  

3. Independence Rock, Mumbai

What better city to choose for rock music lovers! One of India`s biggest rock festivals, I Rock began about three decades ago. Founded by farhad Wadia, the kusic festivals conveys stories and human emotions that have been a part of rock music culture through flawless musicianship. Independent rock artists such as Pentagram and Parikrama have performed here previously. While this year`s line-up is yet to be announced, be rest assured that everything at I Rock is going to be big and loud. 

When: November 5-6

Where: Bayview Lawns, Mazgaon, Mumbai

Tickets: Sign up for early bird access here

4. Sunburn Fest, Goa

Do we need to say anything more about this music festival? "Live, Love, Dance" at Sunburn Goa. One of Idia`s coolest, most loved festivals, Sunburn was started n 2007 to celebrate and recognize electronic dance music. With eclectic tunes that offers a blend of music, dance, and other experiences - it has travelled miles across continents to have some amazing EDM artists to perform. Sunburn Goa has seen artists such as Martin Garrix, Afrojack, The Chainsmokers and Avicci become a part of this Indian music festival. 

With this year`s theme being "the future is now", we have Grammy award winning artist Afrojack and DJs Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike will be headlining the event. This will eb followed by Belgian DJ Lost Frequencies and music producer Otnika. This is the right chance to take that much-anticipated road trip with your friends to take this high-octane experience. 

When: December 28-30

Where: Vagator Beach, Goa

How to reach: Flights for Goa are connected from most of the cities. A road trip or train are also some other options to explore. 

Tickets: From Rs. 3,375

5. Echoes of Earth, Bengaluru

The unanimous love for music, nature, and Indian heritage gave birth to Echos of Earth. Hosted in the lush greenery amidst the hustle bustle of Bengaluru, this is one of the greenest music festivals of India. Each part of the festival is carefully curated using recycled and upcycled products. With its unique art installations and  ancient Indian art performances such as Gombeyatta dolls dancing to the beats of Kannada bandmasters, Echos of Earth promises to be a feast for your eyes. Though the current line-up hasn`t been announced yet, the past performances saw some brilliant artists such as Acid Pauli, drummer Sarathy Korwar and more.

When: December 3-4

Where: Venue TBA, Bengaluru

Tickets: From INR 2,360

6. VH1 Supersonic, Pune

Offering a variety of experiences in a platter, VH1 Supersonic is an amalgamation of EDM, techno, indie, pop, and reggae music. Combine this with a flea market and global cuisines, this is an ideal place to plan a quick getaway. Opening its gates for thousands of music lovers every February, Vh1Supersonic has seen artists like Prateek Kuhad and Machine Gun kelly perform. The good news is they`ve just announced the dates for their 2023 music fest. 

When: February 24-26

Where: Mahalaxmi Lawns, Pune

Tickets: Visit here for more information   

7. Swara Samrat Festival, Kolkata

Celebrating a decade of bringing in authentic classical music under one roof, Swara Samrat Festival is the biggest classical music festival in India. The current line-up comprise of classical indie maestros like Pt. Hariprasad Chaurasia, Vidushi Manjusha Patil, Zakir Hussain, Ustaad Rashid Khan, among others. 

When: December 15-18

Where: Nazrul Mancha, Kolkata

Tickets: Know more about the event here