Your Travel Partner
SINCE 1989
Your Travel Partner
SINCE 1989
The Karauli Cattle Fair, also known as the Shivratri Cattle Fair or Karauli Pashu Mela, is one of Rajasthan’s traditional livestock fairs. Held in Karauli during the Hindu month of Phalgun, the event is associated with the period around Maha Shivratri.
Farmers, herders and traders gather at the fairground to buy and sell livestock. The event also provides visitors with an opportunity to observe Rajasthan’s rural economy, animal husbandry traditions and community life.
The cattle fair has a long association with Karauli’s former princely era and is considered one of the state’s older livestock markets. Under the Rajasthan State Cattle Fairs Act, it is identified as the Shiv Ratri Cattle Fair and traditionally runs from Phalgun Krishna Saptami to Phalgun Krishna Chaturdashi.
Since these dates follow the Hindu calendar, the Gregorian schedule changes annually. Visitors should confirm the current dates through the Karauli district administration or Rajasthan’s Animal Husbandry Department before travelling.
Livestock trading remains the main purpose of the Karauli Cattle Fair. Depending on participation, the animals brought to the market may include:
Traders examine the health, age, breed and physical strength of the animals before negotiating prices. Participants may travel from different parts of Rajasthan as well as neighbouring Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
The fair is particularly associated with livestock used in farming, transport and dairy production. It therefore remains economically relevant for many rural families.
Competitions may be organised towards the end of the livestock fair to recognise healthy and well-maintained animals. Veterinary services, inspections or awareness programmes may also be provided, depending on arrangements made for that year.
Visitors should observe the animals from a safe distance and avoid feeding, touching or photographing them without the owner’s permission.
Following the livestock-trading period, the event traditionally develops into a broader commodity market. Local traders establish stalls selling spices, household items, agricultural tools, textiles, handicrafts and animal accessories.
Decorative ropes, bells and other livestock-related products add colour to the market. Food stalls and temporary shops make the fair an important social gathering for nearby villages.
Karauli is connected by road with Jaipur, Bharatpur, Agra, Sawai Madhopur and other regional destinations. Hindaun City and Gangapur City are useful nearby railway stations, depending on the traveller’s route.
February and March generally offer comfortable daytime conditions, but mornings and evenings can still feel cool. Visitors should wear practical footwear, carry drinking water and expect dust and large crowds around the fairground.
The Karauli Cattle Fair offers an authentic look at Rajasthan’s livestock traditions and rural commerce. Responsible visitors should respect local customs, avoid disturbing animals and support vendors selling locally produced goods. Because the schedule changes annually, confirm the official dates before making travel arrangements.
