Which place is best to celebrate Diwali in India?

Varanasi is one of the best places to celebrate Diwali in India, offering a spiritual and visually stunning experience along the Ganges River.

Where can I see the most spectacular Diwali lights and decorations?

Jaipur is among the top places to celebrate Diwali in India for the most spectacular lights and decorations, especially in its royal palaces and markets.

Which temples should I visit during Diwali in India?

The Golden Temple in Amritsar, Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, and Akshardham Temple in Delhi are famous places to celebrate Diwali in India with remarkable temple festivities.

Top 10 Places to Celebrate Diwali in India

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India. It’s a time when homes, streets, and cities are illuminated with oil lamps, and everyone comes together to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness. If you’re thinking about where to celebrate Diwali in India, here are some of the top places to celebrate Diwali in India that promise an unforgettable experience.

1. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Varanasi is a place that defines spirituality in India. During Diwali, this ancient city transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle. The ghats along the Ganges River light up with thousands of small lamps (diyas), creating a magical view. The sight of the lamps floating on the river, accompanied by the sound of evening prayers (Ganga Aarti), makes it one of the special places to celebrate Diwali in India. The celebrations in Varanasi are deeply rooted in tradition, and for many, it’s the most spiritual Diwali celebration idea in India.

2. Jaipur, Rajasthan

Jaipur, known as the Pink City, comes alive during Diwali with its markets, streets, and palaces decked out in lights. Walking through the lit-up bazaars is an experience in itself, and the special decorations at iconic spots like the Hawa Mahal and City Palace make it one of the must-visit places for Diwali festival. Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar are two spots where you can enjoy the festive energy while shopping for traditional Diwali items. For those wondering where to celebrate Diwali in India, Jaipur offers a perfect blend of royalty and festivity.

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3. Amritsar, Punjab

Amritsar uniquely celebrates Diwali. Along with the traditional Diwali festivities, the city also observes Bandi Chhor Divas, a Sikh festival. The Golden Temple is lit up beautifully with oil lamps and candles, creating a divine ambiance. Seeing the reflection of the illuminated temple on the holy water of the Sarovar (lake) is a beautiful sight. Amritsar is one of the great places to celebrate Diwali in India if you want to experience a blend of Hindu and Sikh traditions.

4. Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh

Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama, has deep connections with Diwali. According to legend, Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya on Diwali after defeating Ravana, and the city was lit up to welcome him. Today, Ayodhya celebrates Diwali with a grand event called “Deepotsav.” Millions of diyas are lit along the banks of the Sarayu River, and the entire city sparkles with light. It’s one of the most famous Diwali destinations and a must-visit place for Diwali festival enthusiasts who want to witness a traditional, large-scale celebration. It is one of the best places to celebrate Diwali in India.

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5. Kolkata, West Bengal

Kolkata offers a different flavor to Diwali with its focus on Kali Puja, a festival dedicated to Goddess Kali, which coincides with Diwali. The temples of Kolkata, especially the famous Dakshineswar and Kalighat, are decked out, and the entire city celebrates with lights and firecrackers. If you want a unique twist to the traditional Festival of Lights, Kolkata is one of the places to celebrate Diwali in India.

6. Udaipur, Rajasthan

If you’re looking for a royal place to celebrate Diwali in India, Udaipur is the place to be. Known for its beautiful palaces and serene lakes, Udaipur becomes even more magical during Diwali. The City Palace and the banks of Lake Pichola are lit up, creating a stunning reflection in the water. Udaipur offers a peaceful and scenic backdrop for the Diwali festivities, perfect for those who want to celebrate in a royal yet serene environment.

7. Mumbai, Maharashtra

For those who enjoy a fast-paced city vibe, Mumbai is one of the top Diwali celebration spots in India. From fireworks lighting up the sky along Marine Drive to the beautiful decorations at iconic temples like Siddhivinayak, Mumbai celebrates Diwali with great enthusiasm. The streets are filled with festive shoppers, and the Diwali fairs around the city are packed with food, games, and shopping stalls. If you want a vibrant urban Diwali celebration idea, Mumbai is a great choice.

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8. Madurai, Tamil Nadu

In southern India, Diwali is called Deepavali, and Madurai offers a special experience. The Meenakshi Temple is at the heart of the festivities here, and the celebrations are more traditional and devotional. Special rituals, prayers, and the lighting of lamps take place in the temple complex, making it a significant religious Diwali celebration in India. Madurai is an ideal destination for those looking for a quieter, more spiritually focused places to celebrate Diwali in India.

9. Delhi

Delhi is always buzzing with activity, but during Diwali, the energy goes up a notch. From the bustling markets of Chandni Chowk to the grand Diwali melas that happen all over the city, Delhi offers a wide range of Diwali events in India. The temples, especially Akshardham and Laxminarayan, are lit up beautifully, creating a peaceful yet festive atmosphere. For a complete Diwali experience, from traditional rituals to modern celebrations, Delhi is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Diwali vacation.

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10. Pushkar, Rajasthan

Pushkar, famous for its annual camel fair, also celebrates Diwali in a unique way. The small town’s simplicity adds to its charm, and the celebration is more intimate compared to bigger cities. The Pushkar Lake is surrounded by lamps, and the town’s temples host special prayers and rituals. If you’re looking for laid-back and traditional places to celebrate Diwali in India, Pushkar offers an offbeat yet delightful option.

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10 Best Places to Celebrate Diwali in India: Festival of Lights Destinations

1. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

2. Jaipur, Rajasthan

3. Amritsar, Punjab

4. Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh

5. Kolkata, West Bengal

6. Udaipur, Rajasthan

7. Mumbai, Maharashtra

8. Madurai, Tamil Nadu

9. Delhi

10. Pushkar, Rajasthan

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