Known as the “Festival of Lights,” Diwali is one of India’s biggest and most culturally significant celebrations of the year. What makes Diwali so special is the diversity of celebrations that occur throughout the country. These region-specific Diwali celebrations reflect the different cultures that India represents. That means you’ll enjoy a distinctly different Diwali celebration depending on which destination you visit.
Here are a few of the best places to visit in India by living like a local and making the most of Diwali.
Jaipur
Jaipur
Jaipur is mostly known for its pink sandstone walls. Each Diwali, these walls turn into a shimmering yellow. All of Jaipur is lit up with vibrant colors turning the city into a magical sight. Start your tour at the Johari Bazaar, featuring folk musicians, light displays, and more. Next, head to the Nahargarh Fort to look over the lights of the city and view the fireworks show. You may also find that your hotel will arrange Diwali tours and celebrations for guests, making it easy to immerse yourself in this holiday like a local.
Mumbai
During Diwali, the energy in Mumbai is palpable. The city, always lively, kicks into a higher gear during the festival. At Marine Drive, locals and tourists alike gather to witness the spectacular fireworks that light up the night sky. Street vendors sell traditional lamps and colorful rangolis here. For a less crowded experience, the Worli Sea Link is popular for leisurely drives that offer a panoramic view of the city’s illuminated skyline. And at Juhu Beach, families come together to enjoy festive treats like sweets and savory snacks while children play with sparklers on the sand. You can also find impromptu music and dance performances celebrating the festival.
Diwali Decorations, Delhi, India
Delhi
In Delhi, the capital city, Diwali is a grand affair. The Diwali Bazaar, bustling with shoppers, is the go-to spot for picking up festive decorations, gifts, and traditional attire. Stalls offering a variety of local dishes provide a taste of Delhi’s rich culinary heritage. The Dastkar Festival of Lights, set in a vibrantly decorated venue, showcases exquisite handcrafted items and is perfect for experiencing the local arts and crafts scene. During Diwali, the city is also dotted with carnivals and fairs, or “melas,” where you can enjoy amusement rides, games, live music, and shop for handicrafts. Food stalls at these events offer everything from street food favorites to gourmet treats.
Goa
In Goa, the Diwali celebration is infused with its own local flavor. Specific to the region is the tradition of burning effigies of Narakasura, which takes place in towns like Panaji and Mapusa, where the effigies are often the most elaborate and attract large crowds. The burning happens on the eve of Diwali, marking Narakasura Chaturdashi, which commemorates the defeat of the demon Narakasura by Lord Krishna, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. This event is accompanied by music, dance, and sometimes competitions for the most creative effigy.
The main day of Diwali sees Goans and visitors alike flocking to the beaches, such as Calangute or Anjuna, which become hubs of activity. Fireworks explode over the ocean, and beach parties extend till dawn with live music and DJ sets. Markets like the Anjuna Flea Market become even more lively, offering a range of festive goods, from ornamental diyas to hand-painted lanterns. It’s common for hotels and resorts across Goa to organize special events and dinners for the occasion, featuring traditional Goan cuisine and performances.
Amritsar
In Amritsar, Diwali coincides with the Sikh festival of Bandi Chhor Divas, which holds great importance in the city. This festival is celebrated to mark the return of the sixth Sikh Guru, Guru Hargobind Sahib, from imprisonment by the Mughal emperor Jahangir. The Golden Temple, the holiest gurdwara of the Sikhs, becomes a focal point of the festivities. It is spectacularly illuminated with thousands of lights, and the reflection of the temple in the surrounding waters adds to the awe-inspiring sight. Devotees also set off fireworks here, adding to the grandeur of the celebration. Be sure to attend evening prayers at the Golden Temple and experience the communal meals
Across the city, homes are adorned with lights and rangoli designs, and there is a spirit of sharing and community, with large communal feasts known as langars, where people from all walks of life sit together and eat. Friends and family exchange gifts and sweets, embodying the warmth and generosity of the season.
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Mysore
In Mysore, the locals celebrate Diwali with grandeur, and at the heart of the festivities is the Mysore Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This architectural marvel is famously lit up with nearly 100,000 light bulbs, creating a breathtaking spectacle that draws visitors from all over.
Also unmissable is the tradition of releasing sky lanterns. Locals and visitors congregate in open spaces — such as the sprawling grounds near the Chamundi Hills — to release sky lanterns, creating a mesmerizing display as they ascend into the night sky. These lanterns, varying in shapes, sizes, and colors, symbolize the lifting of spirits and the pursuit of light over darkness.
FAQs:
Q: What are the typical dates for Diwali celebrations in India?
A: Diwali follows the lunar calendar and typically occurs in October or November. The exact dates change each year, so it’s best to check a current Hindu calendar for this year’s dates.
Q: Is it necessary to book accommodations in advance during Diwali?
A: Yes, it’s highly recommended to book your stay well in advance as Diwali is a major festival and accommodations, especially in popular destinations, can fill up quickly.
Q: Are there any special travel packages available for tourists during Diwali?
A: Travel agencies and hotels often offer special Diwali packages that may include accommodations, guided tours, and sometimes even participation in local celebrations.
Q: How do I participate in local Diwali celebrations and customs?
A: Many communities welcome tourists to join in. Attend public events, accept invitations to homes if offered, and always be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Q: Can I bring fireworks to celebrate Diwali?
A: It’s not advisable to bring your own fireworks due to safety and legal restrictions. Instead, enjoy the public displays organized by locals.
Q: What are some traditional Diwali foods I should try?
A: Diwali is a great time to indulge in sweets like jalebi, ladoo, and barfi. Savory snacks such as samosas and chakli are also popular.
Did we leave anything off our list? Tell us what you think in the comments below!
