Best Destinations for Diwali Celebrations in India

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diwali in India

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of India’s most significant and widely celebrated festivals. It marks the victory of light over darkness and good over evil. Celebrated with great fervor across the country, Diwali showcases the rich cultural diversity of India, with each region offering its unique traditions and customs. From magnificent firework displays to vibrant fairs and traditional rituals, Diwali celebrations in India are a visual and cultural treat. If you’re planning to experience the magic of Diwali, here’s a guide to the best destinations in India to witness the grandeur of this festival.

Which are the Destinations for Diwali Celebrations in India Read on to learn more:

1. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – A Spiritual Diwali by the Ganges

Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world, is an incredible destination to experience the spiritual essence of Diwali. The ghats of the Ganges River come alive with thousands of oil lamps (diyas) floating on the water, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle.

Key Highlights:

  • Ganga Aarti: Witness the elaborate Aarti performed on the ghats, which culminates in a dazzling display of fireworks.
  • Dev Deepawali: A unique festival celebrated 15 days after Diwali, where the entire riverbank is illuminated with millions of diyas.
  • Boat Rides: Take an evening boat ride on the Ganges to view the illuminated ghats and participate in offering floating diyas.

Best Time to Visit: Diwali week, followed by Dev Deepawali (usually in November).

Find more: 3 Nights 4 Days Varanasi Tour Package

2. Jaipur, Rajasthan – The Pink City Drenched in Lights

Jaipur, known as the Pink City, offers a royal and grand celebration of Diwali. The entire city is adorned with lights, and its famous markets and monuments are beautifully decorated.

Key Highlights:

  • Illuminated Markets: The bazaars of Johari Bapu and Tripolia are festooned with fairy lights and vibrant decorations.
  • City Palace Diwali Celebration: The royal family of Jaipur celebrates Diwali in grandeur at the City Palace, with elaborate rituals and fireworks.
  • Fireworks: Jaipur hosts an impressive display of fireworks across the city, lighting up the night sky.

Best Time to Visit: Diwali week, especially around the Lakshmi Puja.

Read more: 4 Days Jaipur Tour Package

3. Amritsar, Punjab – A Sacred Diwali at the Golden Temple

Diwali in Amritsar is an awe-inspiring experience, particularly at the Golden Temple. As it coincides with the Sikh festival of Bandi Chhor Divas, which commemorates Guru Hargobind’s release from prison.

Key Highlights:

  • Golden Temple: The shimmering Golden Temple is beautifully decorated with lights and diyas.
  • Fireworks Display: The sky above the temple complex is lit up with a magnificent fireworks display.
  • Langar: Participate in the community meal (langar) served at the temple, where thousands of devotees gather for the festive occasion.

Best Time to Visit: Diwali day when Bandi Chhor Divas is also celebrated.

Check out: 2 Nights 3 Days Amritsar Tour Package Itinerary

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4. Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh – The Mythical Birthplace of Lord Rama

Ayodhya the birthplace of Lord Rama. Here holds immense significance during Diwali. It is believed that Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile on this day. The city’s Diwali celebrations have grown immensely in recent years, particularly with the Deepotsav, a grand event organized by the Uttar Pradesh government to recreate the historic welcome of Lord Rama.

Read more: 5 Days Ayodhya, Lucknow Tour Package

Key Highlights:

  • Deepotsav Festival: Witness the lighting of millions of earthen lamps along the banks of the Saryu River, setting a Guinness World Record for the largest display of oil lamps.
  • Ramlila Performances: Enjoy dramatic performances of the Ramayana, which narrate the life and struggles of Lord Rama.
  • Fireworks: The grand fireworks show over the Saryu River adds to the festivities.

Best Time to Visit: Diwali day and the days leading up to the festival for the Deepotsav celebrations.

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5. Kolkata, West Bengal – Diwali and Kali Puja Celebrations

In Kolkata Diwali coincides with Kali Puja. Where Goddess Kali is worshipped with great devotion. Temples and homes are decorated and elaborate pujas are performed to seek the blessings of the goddess.

Read more: 2 Nights 3 Days Sunderbans Tour Package

Key Highlights:

  • Kali Puja: Visit famous Kali temples like Dakshineswar Temple and Kalighat Temple to witness the grand rituals and pujas dedicated to Goddess Kali.
  • Illuminated Streets: The streets of Kolkata especially neighborhoods like Burrabazar and Kumartuli. Decked with beautiful lights and pandals (temporary shrines) for Kali Puja.
  • Firecrackers: Firecrackers light up the sky, adding a celebratory atmosphere to the city’s spiritual vibe.

Best Time to Visit: Diwali and Kali Puja which are celebrated together (usually in October or November).

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6. Udaipur, Rajasthan – Diwali by the Lakes

The royal city of Udaipur, known for its stunning palaces and serene lakes, celebrates Diwali with unmatched grandeur. The City of Lakes turns into a sparkling jewel during the festival, with illuminated palaces reflecting on the shimmering waters of Lake Pichola.

Read more: 4 Days Udaipur Luxury Tour

Key Highlights:

  • Lake Pichola: The sight of the City Palace, Jag Mandir, and other lakeside structures lit up during Diwali is simply magical. Boat rides on the lake offer panoramic views of the illuminated city.
  • City Palace Celebrations: Diwali festivities at the City Palace include traditional rituals, music performances, and a grand display of fireworks.
  • Shopping: Visit the bustling markets like Hathi Pol and Bada Bazaar.

Best Time to Visit: Diwali week, especially for the City Palace celebrations and shopping festivals.

Find out the Travel Style for India tour:

Indian Bycycle Tour Package

7. Delhi – A Capital Celebration of Diwali

As the capital city of India, Delhi celebrates Diwali with great enthusiasm, bringing together the city’s diverse communities for a grand celebration.

Key Highlights:

  • Akshardham Temple: Visit the Akshardham Temple. The temple also hosts a spectacular light and sound show.
  • Dilli Haat and Diwali Melas: Attend Diwali melas (fairs) at venues like Dilli Haat, where you can enjoy shopping for handicrafts, savor delicious street food, and witness cultural performances.
  • Fireworks: Delhi’s skies are filled with fireworks, and the celebration continues late into the night with family gatherings, feasts, and cultural programs.

Best Time to Visit: Diwali week, especially around Lakshmi Puja and the Diwali melas.

Read more: 2 Days Delhi Tour Package

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8. Goa – A Unique Diwali Celebration with Narakasura Effigies

In Goa Diwali is celebrated in a unique way. The burning of giant effigies of the demon Narakasura symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The effigies are paraded through the streets and set on fire amidst cheering crowds marking a vibrant start to Diwali festivities.

Key Highlights:

  • Narakasura Effigies: The night before Diwali massive effigies of Narakasura are paraded around towns and villages followed by a grand ceremony where the effigies are burnt.
  • Beachside Celebrations: Enjoy beachside Diwali celebrations, where bonfires, fireworks, and lanterns light up the night along the shores of Goa’s beautiful beaches.
  • Local Temples: Visit temples like Shree Mangeshi Temple and Shree Shantadurga Temple where Diwali is celebrated with grand rituals and offerings.

Best Time to Visit: Diwali day and the night before for the Narakasura celebrations.

check out: 3 Nights 4 Days Goa Package Itinerary

9. Ahmedabad, Gujarat – Diwali and Gujarati New Year

Diwali festival in Ahmedabad, Gujarat

In Gujarat, Diwali is a grand affair, as it also marks the beginning of the Gujarati New Year. Ahmedabad, the largest city in Gujarat, is a vibrant place to experience Diwali, with the streets, homes, and temples decorated with rangolis, lights, and lanterns. The festive spirit is also evident in the traditional sweets and delicacies prepared for the occasion.

Key Highlights:

  • New Year Celebrations: Gujaratis celebrate their New Year (Bestu Varas) the day after Diwali, with feasts,

family gatherings, and prayers for prosperity.

Best Time to Visit: Diwali week and the following day for the New Year celebrations.

Check more: 6 Nights 7 Days Gujarat Trip Package Itinerary

10. Mysore, Karnataka – Diwali at the Grand Mysore Palace

The regal city of Mysore offers a magnificent backdrop for Diwali celebrations, with the historic Mysore Palace at the center of the festivities.

Key Highlights:

  • Mysore Palace: The illumination continues for several days drawing large crowds.
  • Markets and Fairs: Mysore’s bustling markets such as Devaraja Market.
  • Fireworks: Enjoy the spectacular fireworks display in the palace grounds and around the city.

Best Time to Visit: Diwali week especially in the evening when the palace is illuminated.

Read more: 6 Days Coorg, Mysore, and Bangalore Tour Itinerary

Conclusion

Diwali celebrations across India are a grand fusion of lights, traditions, and festivity, with each region offering its unique interpretation of this vibrant festival. From the spiritual ghats of Varanasi to the royal grandeur of Udaipur, and the fiery effigies of Goa, there’s no shortage of incredible destinations to experience the magic of Diwali.

Whether you prefer the bustling streets of Delhi, the sacred ambiance of Amritsar, or the artistic beauty of Kolkata’s Kali Puja, Diwali in India is an unforgettable cultural experience. So, pack your bags and head to one of these destinations to immerse yourself in the Festival of Lights and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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