Jauljibi and Thal Fair

Jauljibi is the small bazaar of Indo-Nepal border (Uttarakhand / Mahakali Zone) situated at the confluences of Kali and Gori Rivers. The name refers to bazaars on both sides of the river, with the Nepal-side bazaar being rather small compared to that on the Indian side. A suspension bridge on the Kali has joined the bazaars and the people of both countries for many years. The town is famous for its annual trade fair, popularly known as Jauljibi Mela. Thousands of people throng to Mela from the neighboring villages and districts.

History :
The Uttarayani Fair provides the social and political workers with an important platform to express their grievances. It has consequently played a vital role in the local movements.

Description :
Nestled by the snow clad mountains, Jauljibi is a picturesque place where you can find forests as well as rivers. The prime attraction of this place as well as of Thal is the fairs that they host. At both these fairs, the simple rustic people of these hilly regions come together to meet each other and at the same time to carry on some business. This place is the gateway to important places like Johar, Darma, Chaudans and Byans. A variety of products are sold in both these fairs. In fact people from the neighboring country of Nepal come over to sell horses, foreign goods, leather goods as well as ghee. In return they take back home food grains, jaggery and woolen products. They are pointers to the mercantile and cultural prosperity of the region.

Uttarakhand Festivals has earned status of Devbhoomi due to its religious and spiritual significance that dates back to eternities ago. The traditional belief and culture here is extremely unique and one of a kind which gives birth to some of the most colorful and fun-filled festivals in Uttarakhand. No matter Kumaoni or Garhwali the hill population find a reason to celebrate almost every month of the year, some of them being widely acclaimed while some remain limited to local grounds but are equally special. Uttarakhand is popularly known as 'Devbhoomi' or the land of gods. It is a very famous pilgrimage site where people come from all parts of India and even the world to immerse in the spiritual and religious environment. From the sacred ghats of Ganga in Haridwar to the snow-capped mountains of Auli, Uttarakhand is viewed as a holy place. It has a varied and vibrant culture as it is home to people of different ethnic groups, tribal communities, and even immigrants. Here, people speak many languages like Hindi, Bhotia, Garhwali, Kumaoni, wear different traditional dresses and also celebrate various festivals. The beliefs and traditions of the Garhwali and Kumaoni people are a significant part of their life and also ascertain their identity.

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