Wondering where to celebrate Diwali this year for a truly unforgettable experience? Known as the ‘Festival of Lights’, Diwali is celebrated across India with grandeur and enthusiasm. Hence, you will find that almost all states in India celebrate Diwali in their special way. One of the best things about Diwali is that each region adds its own unique flavour to the festivities making it a wholesome and unique experience.
From the illuminated ghats of Varanasi to exploring the vibrant markets of Jaipur you can experience Diwali in different ways. This also means that every year you can explore different locations and that would allow you to celebrate in different ways. Hence, you can always look for the best places to celebrate Diwali that would allow you and your family to make the most of the holidays in style.
Why Do We Celebrate Diwali?
There is no doubt that people celebrate Diwali for various reasons which are deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and Indian culture. However, here are 3 reasons for which people celebrate Diwali or Deepawali.
1. Celebrating the Return of Lord Rama
One of the primary reasons why Diwali is celebrated is to honour the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya after a 14-year exile. It also marks his victory over the demon king Ravana. This homecoming symbolizes the triumph of good over evil with the people of Ayodhya lighting diyas (oil lamps) across the city to welcome him back.
2. Worship of Goddess Lakshmi
There are multiple reasons for Diwali celebrations and one of them is to worship Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. People believe that Lakshmi visits their homes on Diwali night and blesses them with wealth and success for the upcoming year. This is one of the reasons why people clean, decorate and illuminate their homes on Diwali.
3. Spiritual Renewal
Diwali is all about colours and lights, exchanging sweets, embracing positivity and renewing relationships. This is a great time when people focus on family reunions, festive meals and harmony and love. This is what makes Diwali a truly universal festival as it focuses on human bonding, love and the sense of being for each other. Also, while you are enjoying Diwali you can hear various Diwali stories from Hindu mythology that add to its cultural richness.
Here are the 7 Best Places to Celebrate Diwali in India
1. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
One of the top Diwali celebration destinations in India has always remained Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh. Hence, if you want to experience Diwali traditionally you should pack your bags for Varanasi. This place offers a magical blend of spirituality, traditions and visual splendour making it one of the best cities for Diwali festivities. Dev Diwali in Varanasi is one of the highlights that you should not miss celebrated almost two weeks after Diwali.
During this time of the year, the ghats of Varanasi come alive with lights and ceremonies in honour of the gods. Also, when you are visiting Varanasi during Diwali you can experience thousands of diyas (oil lamps) illuminated across the ghats of Varanasi along the sacred River Ganges. You can participate in the Ganga Aarti where you can experience synchronized rituals, chants and music.
2. Jaipur, Rajasthan
Jaipur, the Pink City of India has always been known for its royalty and while you are here you can enjoy Diwali in the best possible way. Experiencing Diwali in Jaipur is a feast for the senses. You can get into your best ethnic wear and put on the Jaipuri safa to get into the festive vibe. With historical landmarks like Hawa Mahal, buzzing and vibrant markets and ample food choices, Jaipur is one of the top Diwali celebration destinations in India.
With plenty of vibrant energy around Jaipur during Diwali is captivating making it a must-visit destination in India. If you are someone who loves to eat and shop endlessly, Jaipur is one of the best cities for Diwali celebrations that must be on your itinerary.
3. Amritsar, Punjab
Experiencing Diwali celebrations in the holy city of Amritsar is a unique and spiritually enriching experience. Hence, if you have never been to Punjab during Diwali festivities you should try it this year. Undoubtedly, the highlight of the festivities is Diwali celebrations at the Amritsar Golden Temple. This is one of the best sights that you can witness during the Diwali season.
This sacred site is illuminated with thousands of diyas (oil lamps) and electric lights that reflect on the serene waters of the holy pool. Diwali in Amritsar also coincides with Bandi Chhod Diwas commemorating the release of Guru Hargobind Ji from captivity. Hence, if you love a blend of spirituality and festivity, Amritsar is one of the best places to celebrate Diwali in India.
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4. Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
If you are unsure where to celebrate Diwali in India this year, you should head to Ayodhya. This year, Diwali in Ayodhya is going to be very special marked by the grand Ayodhya Deepotsav. This means that you will be able to watch Ayodhya Ram Mandir decorations in person and watch the lighting of thousands of diyas (oil lamps) along the banks of the Sarayu River.
This being the place where Lord Rama returned from exile makes it one of the special places to explore during the Diwali festivities in India. While you are here you can also enjoy traditional foods and explore other temples that make Ayodhya one of the best places to celebrate Diwali this year.
5. Kolkata, West Bengal
Kolkata in West Bengal is one of the best places to celebrate Diwali with traditional customs and contemporary flair. Known as the ‘City of Joy’, Kolkata offers a lot more during the Diwali festivities in India. With its elaborate decorations and festivities, you can explore and shop at various Kolkata markets during Diwali. One of the unique experiences in Kolkata is the Kolkata Durga Puja during Diwali which sets the stage for the festive atmosphere.
You can stay at some of the best budget hotels in Kolkata for Durga Puja to help you manage your festive budget. Kolkata is also known for its sweets and therefore you can buy Kolkata’s Diwali sweets like sandesh and misti doi. If you are unsure where to celebrate Diwali this year, Kolkata would be a nice change for sure.
6. Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Wondering where to celebrate Diwali traditionally in India? Ahmedabad is one of the top cities in Gujarat where you can experience vibrant celebrations marked by lights, colours and traditions. During the Diwali festivities in Ahmedabad, you can witness all homes illuminated by diyas (oil lamps), lanterns and electric lights. This transforms the city into a dazzling spectacle of lights at night time.
The city also hosts Diwali Pataka Festival where fireworks are on display and people exchange sweets and traditional foods. While you are in the city you can visit the iconic Sabarmati Riverfront which makes Diwali in Ahmedabad one of the most illuminating experiences you can have in India.
7. Delhi
Diwali in Delhi is all about blending traditional customs with modern festivities. The city lights up with vibrant decorations, magnificent lights that adorn various historical monuments and plenty of food to eat. While you are in Delhi you can head to Dilli Haat where you can shop endlessly and buy local crafts and enjoy local cuisines.
You can head to India Gate where you can watch the celebrations as fireworks lit the sky. With diverse culinary delights, mouthwatering sweets and snacks, Delhi is a paradise for foodies during the Diwali festival. Hence, you should always think about celebrating Diwali in Delhi to help you with your holidays in India.
Conclusion
If you are planning leisure holidays there are plenty of destinations in India to explore during Diwali holidays. However, if you are focused on enjoying Diwali traditionally and are unsure about where to celebrate Diwali in India you can choose from these places to celebrate Diwali in India. The best part about these cities is that they showcase the rich cultural tapestry of India in each region offering its unique celebrations and experiences. From the grand fireworks of Delhi to the serene beauty of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi, to Diwali in Jaipur where you can feast and shop endlessly each destination offers something unique. This ensures that you can have a memorable experience with your loved ones and capture the true essence of this beloved festival.
