As Diwali draws near, individuals from diverse backgrounds and regions worldwide converge on India to witness the grandeur of this extraordinary celebration. From the vibrant streets of Delhi to the serene ghats of Varanasi, the majestic palaces of Jaipur, and the stunning beaches of Goa – yes, even the coastal haven of Goa – India offers a kaleidoscope of experiences during this festive season.
Join us on a journey through some of the most popular destinations in India to visit during Diwali, where tradition, culture, and vibrant celebrations blend into an unforgettable symphony of light and joy. Whether you seek cultural immersion as a traveler or simply aim to experience the magic of Diwali, these locations promise an unforgettable and luminous adventure.
Varanasi: Begin your Diwali experience with a sacred dip in the River Ganga, followed by exploring bustling bazaars where you can find everything from traditional clothing to delectable sweets. Don't miss the serene sunset boat ride to witness the shimmering lamps illuminating the riverbanks, accompanied by religious performances and chanting. The festivities culminate in a dazzling firework display. If you plan an extended stay in Varanasi, you can also participate in the Diwali of Gods, also known as Dev Deepavali, as part of the renowned Ganga Mahotsav Festival.
Jaipur: Be sure to partake in the splendid Diwali celebrations in Jaipur, commencing with Dhanteras. The Nahargarh Fort and other renowned monuments offer breathtaking vistas of the city's illuminated skyline.
Goa: Surprisingly, Goa proves to be another fantastic Diwali destination. Festivities kick off on Naraka Chaturdashi when locals adorn their doorways and windows with lanterns. People create colossal Narakasura effigies from fireworks and grass, which are set ablaze early the following morning. It's an unforgettable celebration, and you can also enjoy the vibrant ambiance by visiting the beaches, posh restaurants, and lounges.
Kolkata: After their grand Puja celebrations, Kolkatans gear up to revel once more around Diwali. You can tour the city's famous Kali Puja pandals or pay a visit to significant religious sites like the Kalighat Temple or Dakshineswar Temple, where hundreds of devotees gather to worship Goddess Kali.
Mysore: For those seeking warmer weather in South India, the historic city of Mysore is an excellent choice for a Diwali getaway. The Mysore Palace, the city's premier attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is adorned with brilliant illumination throughout the festive season, drawing thousands of visitors annually.
Ayodhya: When discussing Diwali, the first place that comes to mind is Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram, who returned to Ayodhya with his wife Sita and brother Laxman after a 14-year exile. People gather on the Sarayu river's banks to light lanterns from all over India. This is a four-day festival with a lot of fanfare. In a beautiful ceremony, the women light the diyas and carry them to the river. The city is exquisitely decorated with handcrafted ornaments, lights, and colourful paper. You will be overjoyed and amazed to be able to celebrate this special day here.
Pushkar: Pushkar is one such city, nestled among the hills, forests, lakes, and sand dunes that surround Pushkar Lake. This oasis town's spirituality and beauty are just two of the many reasons to visit. However, if you visit Pushkar around Diwali, you can see the annual Haveli Diwali camel market. This is a fascinating event to watch as nearly 50,000 camels, all fully dressed and decorated in bright colours, are driven up the ramp.
Udaipur: There is no denying that Udaipur is a beautiful destination, and it is even more beautiful during Diwali. Everyone should go because of the beautiful surroundings and vibrant atmosphere. For those who enjoy shopping, October and November are ideal months to visit Udaipur because the streets and markets are much busier. Make sure to haggle in these markets to get some great deals!
These destinations offer a vibrant and diverse spectrum of Diwali experiences, ensuring that the festival of lights leaves an indelible mark on all who are fortunate enough to be part of the celebration.