Top Places to Celebrate Diwali in India

Diwali is one of India’s brightest, vibrant, profound, and unified festivals. Often referred to as the Festival of Lights. It symbolizes victory over sadness and light over darkness. During this period, India sparkles with joy and tradition, from the lightning diyas, decorating every doorstep, to the vibrant rangolis that greet visitors. The aroma of festive sweets, the sound of fireworks, and the coziness of togetherness fill the air. 

Although Diwali is celebrated throughout, each location contributes its own cultural flair. it is really spiritual in some cities. In others, it's royal, artistic, or grand. Each location offers something special. There will be the ideal location waiting for you, whether your desire is to observe historic customs, explore bustling marketplaces, or just take in the festive spirit. Here are some of the greatest locations in India where Diwali is more than simply a holiday; it's an unforgettable experience that brightens people's hearts, homes, and perspectives.

1. Ayodhya

Deeply mythological and culturally significant, Ayodhya is located in Uttar Pradesh, on the banks of the Saryu River. It is believed to be the birthplace of Diwali, when the people of Ayodhya lit thousands of diyas in celebration of Lord Rama's victory over Ravana, and he returned home after 14 years of exile. Today, the Uttar Pradesh government organizes the city's grand Deepotsav celebration, which recreates this iconic occasion on a grand scale. The festivities peak on the eve of Diwali, which had begun days earlier. This is how people celebrate it:

• Thousands of diyas lit up across the Saryu River's ghats.

• Artists perform a huge Ramlila, reenacting scenes from the Ramayana.

• Drone displays, laser light shows, and fireworks.

• Folk dances, chanting, and music create a spiritually charged atmosphere.

Ayodhya becomes a magical land as the whole city comes up with joy, faith, and light. Ideal for: Ramayana enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, traditionalists, and cultural explorers.

2. Amritsar

In Amritsar, Diwali coincides with Bandi Chhor Divas, a major Sikh celebration honoring the liberation of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji from Gwalior Fort and the 52 Hindu rulers he assisted in freeing. Sikhs celebrate this day as a sign of freedom and selfless leadership, while the rest of India celebrates the return of Lord Rama. The Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), which is the main attraction, is reflected on the Sarovar by hundreds of sparkling lights. This is how Diwali is celebrated in Amritsar:

• The Golden Temple is beautifully lit with candles and fairy lights.

• Fireworks light up the sky over the Sarovar.

• Devotees participate in Kirtans (devotional songs), langar, and Karah prasad distribution.

3. Jaipur

In keeping with its royal past, Jaipur turns into a stunning display of lights and colors during Diwali. Palaces, historic structures, and marketplaces are all decked out in bright decorations and fairy lights, highlighting the entire city. And even local businesses join in the fun through a decoration contest organized by the Jaipur Municipal Corporation.

A shopper's paradise, the city's famous bazaars, Johari Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar, MI Road, and Tripolia Bazaar, are filled with traditional Diwali décor, ethnic clothing, jewelry, handicrafts, and sweets. Visit Nahargarh Fort for a stunning perspective of Jaipur, which sparkles under the stars like a golden gem. Diwali is more than simply a holiday in Jaipur; it's a royal, artistic, and cultural event when grandeur and tradition collide most gloriously. Ideal for: Fans of festive shopping, architecture, heritage charm, and regal encounters.

4. Varanasi

Varanasi, also called Kashi, is the spiritual center of India. This old city transforms into an ethereal scene of light, devotion, and tradition around Diwali. The true magic of Varanasi happens during Dev Deepawali, which is celebrated on Kartik Purnima, 15 days following Diwali, even though Diwali itself is celebrated with great devotion. More than a million diyas are lit along the Ganga ghats on this auspicious occasion, creating an incredible view. The occasion is marked by:

• Priests dressed in flowing saffron robes perform synchronized Ganga Aartis.

• Fireworks illuminate the riverbanks.

• devotees seek blessings by taking holy dips in the Ganga.

For those seeking more than just parties, Diwali in Varanasi is a profoundly moving experience due to its unique blend of faith, history, and artistic splendor. 

5. Kolkata

Diwali is celebrated in Kolkata alongside Kali Puja, which honors Goddess Kali, the ferocious manifestation of Goddess Durga. In contrast to how Diwali is observed in the majority of India, this produces a distinctive cultural fusion of light and power. In West Bengal, Kali Puja is the main event, in contrast to North India, where the main topic is Lord Rama's return. The city is decorated with rows of shining diyas and fairy lights, beautifully sculpted Kali statues, alpona (traditional floor art), and gorgeous pandals. 

Thousands of devotees visit major temples like the Kalighat Kali Temple and Dakshineswar Kali Temple during the night, when chanting, tantric pujas, and rituals continue until the early hours of the morning. Following the puja, there are fireworks and cultural events. The atmosphere is energetic, artistic, and spiritual. Diwali staples like rosogolla, sandesh, and mishti doi are stocked in a lot in sweet shops, making it a treat for foodies as well. Ideal for: Art enthusiasts, festival lovers, spiritual travelers, and cultural explorers. 

6. Udaipur

Udaipur, often referred to as the City of Lakes, transforms into a dazzling work of art during Diwali. A magical mirror of lights is created by reflections on lakes like Pichola and Fateh Sagar, while the palaces, havelis, and ghats are adorned with lanterns and fairy lights. At City Palace and the surrounding royal landscapes, locals celebrate by lighting diyas, firing up fireworks, and hosting cultural events. Diwali celebrations are made more regal by the participation of Udaipur's royal families. Markets such as Hathi Pol, Bapu Bazaar, and Bada Bazaar are bustling with people purchasing festive attire, sweets, and traditional Rajasthani crafts.

With an eco-friendly lantern festival, Udaipur has offered its lavish Diwali celebrations. Locals and visitors gather around the lakes to release biodegradable sky lanterns into the night sky. In addition to being a beautiful sight, this place encourages a more environmentally friendly celebration. The city's rising dedication to protecting its natural beauty while respecting its cultural heritage is reflected in this modern custom.

A boat ride in the evening or dinner at a lakeside restaurant lets you take in the festive lights reflected on the calm waters, making it a serene yet regal Diwali. Ideal for: Royal heritage enthusiasts, luxury vacationers, couples, and culture explorers.