Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is one of the most celebrated and eagerly awaited festivals in India. It’s a time of joy, festivities, and togetherness. While the traditions of lighting lamps, exchanging gifts, and relishing delicious sweets remain constant, many people use the Diwali vacation as an opportunity to explore new destinations and create lasting memories. If you’re planning a Diwali getaway in 2023, here are 25 of the best places to visit in India during this festive season.
1. Jaipur, Rajasthan
Known as the Pink City, Jaipur dazzles during Diwali with magnificent light displays at Amer Fort and the City Palace. The markets are vibrant with colorful traditional attire and handicrafts. Visitors can also savor delicious Rajasthani sweets and snacks.
Why Visit: Experience the vibrant Diwali celebrations amidst the royal backdrop of Jaipur’s palaces and forts.
Best Thing to Do: Witness the mesmerizing light displays at Amer Fort and shop for traditional Rajasthani handicrafts.
Number of Days Required: 2-3 days.
2. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi, one of the holiest cities in India, takes on a spiritual glow during Diwali. Witness the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat and the visually stunning sight of thousands of diyas floating on the Ganges. The entire city resonates with prayers and devotional music during this time.
Why Visit: Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Varanasi during Diwali, a city steeped in ancient traditions.
Best Thing to Do: Witness the grand Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat and take a boat ride on the Ganges.
Number of Days Required: 2-3 days.
3. Amritsar, Punjab
The Golden Temple in Amritsar shines even brighter during Diwali. The community kitchen, or langar, serves delicious meals to thousands of visitors. The atmosphere is truly uplifting as the temple is illuminated, and fireworks light up the night sky.
Why Visit: Experience the heartwarming celebrations at the Golden Temple during Diwali and savor delicious langar (community kitchen) meals.
Best Thing to Do: Take part in the Golden Temple’s evening procession and enjoy the breathtaking illumination.
Number of Days Required: 2 days.
4. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Udaipur, the City of Lakes, is a romantic destination during Diwali. The Lake Palace and City Palace are adorned with lights, creating a fairy-tale ambiance. Boat rides on Lake Pichola, especially during the evening, are enchanting.
Why Visit: Enjoy a romantic Diwali amidst the lakes and palaces of Udaipur, known as the City of Lakes.
Best Thing to Do: Take a boat ride on Lake Pichola and explore the illuminated City Palace.
Number of Days Required: 2-3 days.
5. Kolkata, West Bengal
Kolkata’s Kali Puja during Diwali is famous. The city comes alive with art, culture, and festivities. Explore the rich culture of the city, visit Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and enjoy the grand illumination of iconic landmarks like Victoria Memorial.
Why Visit: Witness the grandeur of Kali Puja in Kolkata and explore the city’s cultural richness.
Best Thing to Do: Visit the Dakshineswar Kali Temple and enjoy the grand illumination of Victoria Memorial.
Number of Days Required: 2-3 days.
6. Goa
Goa’s beaches offer a unique Diwali experience. Beach shacks and resorts host special celebrations with firework displays. The blend of the coastal breeze, festive lights, and music creates a lively and memorable atmosphere.
Why Visit: Experience a unique beachside Diwali celebration in Goa with vibrant beach shacks and resorts.
Best Thing to Do: Enjoy firework displays by the beach and savor seafood at beachside restaurants.
Number of Days Required: 3-4 days.
7. Mumbai, Maharashtra
Mumbai’s Marine Drive and Gateway of India are beautifully lit during Diwali. Don’t miss the spectacular firecracker show at Juhu Beach. The city’s streets and markets also come alive with Diwali shoppers.
Why Visit: Marvel at the beautifully lit Marine Drive and Gateway of India during Diwali in Mumbai.
Best Thing to Do: Watch the spectacular firecracker show at Juhu Beach and explore the city’s bustling markets.
Number of Days Required: 2-3 days.
8. Kerala Backwaters
Escape the bustling cities and enjoy a serene Diwali in the Kerala backwaters. Houseboat stays amidst tranquil landscapes offer a perfect getaway. Experience the warm hospitality and relish traditional Kerala cuisine.
Why Visit: Escape the city chaos and relax in the serene Kerala backwaters during Diwali.
Best Thing to Do: Stay in a traditional houseboat and enjoy the tranquil landscapes.
Number of Days Required: 3-4 days.
9. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Rishikesh offers a peaceful Diwali by the Ganges. Attend spiritual discourses, practice yoga, and immerse yourself in the holy ambiance. The evening aarti by the river is a mesmerizing experience.
Why Visit: Experience a peaceful Diwali by the Ganges in Rishikesh, known for its spirituality.
Best Thing to Do: Attend yoga and spiritual discourses, and witness the Ganga Aarti.
Number of Days Required: 3-4 days.
10. Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Celebrate a royal Diwali in the Golden City. The Jaisalmer Fort and havelis are beautifully lit up, and cultural performances add to the charm. Enjoy the desert safari and folk music.
Why Visit: Celebrate a royal Diwali in the Golden City amidst illuminated forts and havelis.
Best Thing to Do: Enjoy a desert safari and folk music performances in the sand dunes.
Number of Days Required: 2-3 days.
11. Shillong, Meghalaya
Experience a unique Diwali in the abode of clouds. The picturesque landscapes and mild weather make it an ideal getaway. Explore local markets and savor indigenous cuisine.
Why Visit: Experience a unique Diwali in the serene landscapes of Shillong, known as the abode of clouds.
Best Thing to Do: Explore the picturesque surroundings and indulge in local cuisine.
Number of Days Required: 3-4 days.
12. Madurai, Tamil Nadu
Witness the grand Chithirai Thiruvizha, a festival celebrating Lord Meenakshi’s wedding, which usually coincides with Diwali. The city’s temples are beautifully decorated, and cultural processions are a sight to behold.
Why Visit: Witness the grand Chithirai Thiruvizha, a festival celebrating Lord Meenakshi’s wedding, during Diwali in Madurai.
Best Thing to Do: Explore the city’s stunning temples and enjoy the cultural processions.
Number of Days Required: 2-3 days.
13. Delhi
Visit the Akshardham Temple for its stunning light and sound show, depicting the history of India. Don’t miss the bustling markets like Chandni Chowk and Dilli Haat for Diwali shopping.
Why Visit: Enjoy the stunning light and sound show at Akshardham Temple and indulge in Diwali shopping in Delhi’s markets.
Best Thing to Do: Visit historical landmarks like India Gate and Humayun’s Tomb.
Number of Days Required: 2-3 days.
14. Puri, Odisha
Diwali in Puri is celebrated as Kartik Purnima. Witness the grand processions and the lighting of lamps on the beach. The Jagannath Temple adds to the spiritual fervor.
Why Visit: Celebrate Kartik Purnima on Puri’s beaches with grand processions and illuminated lamps.
Best Thing to Do: Explore the Jagannath Temple and relax on the sandy shores.
Number of Days Required: 2-3 days.
15. Mysore, Karnataka
Visit the Mysore Palace, illuminated with thousands of bulbs, during the Mysore Dasara festival, which often coincides with Diwali. Enjoy the royal ambiance and grand processions.
Why Visit: Experience the grandeur of Mysore Dasara, which often coincides with Diwali, at the illuminated Mysore Palace.
Best Thing to Do: Witness the royal processions and explore the city’s rich heritage.
Number of Days Required: 2-3 days.
16. Agra, Uttar Pradesh
The Taj Mahal looks even more enchanting during Diwali when it’s bathed in soft light. Agra offers a perfect romantic getaway with the iconic monument as a backdrop.
Why Visit: The Taj Mahal looks even more enchanting during Diwali when it’s bathed in soft light.
Best Thing to Do: Enjoy a romantic visit to the Taj Mahal and explore Agra Fort.
Number of Days Required: 1-2 days.
17. Sikkim
Explore the scenic beauty of Sikkim during Diwali. The monasteries, pristine lakes, and serene landscapes offer a unique experience. Visit places like Gangtok and Tsomgo Lake.
Why Visit: Explore the pristine beauty of Sikkim during Diwali, with its monasteries, lakes, and serene landscapes.
Best Thing to Do: Visit Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake, and the Rumtek Monastery.
Number of Days Required: 4-5 days.
18. Hyderabad, Telangana
Charminar and Golconda Fort in Hyderabad are beautifully illuminated during Diwali. Enjoy the city’s rich heritage, shop for traditional bangles, and savor Hyderabadi cuisine.
Why Visit: Charminar and Golconda Fort in Hyderabad are beautifully illuminated during Diwali.
Best Thing to Do: Explore the historic sites and savor Hyderabadi cuisine.
Number of Days Required: 2-3 days.
19. Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple and enjoy the grandeur of Diwali celebrations in the cultural heart of Chennai. The city is adorned with colorful rangolis and lights.
Why Visit: Experience the grandeur of Diwali celebrations in the cultural heart of Chennai.
Best Thing to Do: Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple and enjoy the city’s vibrant culture.
Number of Days Required: 2-3 days.
20. Leh-Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir
For adventure seekers, Ladakh offers a unique Diwali experience. Enjoy the serene landscapes, clear night skies, and Buddhist monasteries. It’s a tranquil getaway.
Why Visit: For adventure seekers, Ladakh offers a unique Diwali experience with serene landscapes and clear night skies.
Best Thing to Do: Explore monasteries like Hemis and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Number of Days Required: 5-7 days.
21. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Escape to the pristine beaches of the Andamans for a tranquil Diwali. Water sports, coral reefs, and relaxation on beautiful beaches await you. Enjoy the unique marine life.
Why Visit: Escape to the pristine beaches of the Andamans for a tranquil Diwali with water sports and relaxation.
Best Thing to Do: Explore Havelock Island, Radhanagar Beach, and indulge in snorkeling and scuba diving.
Number of Days Required: 4-5 days.
22. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat
Diwali in the Rann of Kutch is a visual spectacle. The salt desert comes alive with the Rann Utsav, a cultural extravaganza that includes traditional music, dance, and local crafts. The full moon nights make the white desert shimmer magically.
Why Visit: The Rann Utsav during Diwali is a visual spectacle with cultural performances and traditional crafts.
Best Thing to Do: Experience the magic of the white desert under the full moon.
Number of Days Required: 2-3 days.
23. Darjeeling, West Bengal
Experience a tranquil Diwali in the hills of Darjeeling. Enjoy the crisp mountain air, stunning views of the Himalayas, and tea garden visits. Don’t forget to savor the local Darjeeling tea.
Why Visit: Enjoy a tranquil Diwali in the hills of Darjeeling with stunning Himalayan views.
Best Thing to Do: Visit tea gardens, take the toy train ride, and explore local markets.
Number of Days Required: 3-4 days.
24. Pondicherry
Pondicherry offers a unique blend of French and Indian culture. Diwali is celebrated with diyas and rangolis at the Aurobindo Ashram, and the French Quarter is beautifully illuminated.
Why Visit: Experience a blend of French and Indian culture during Diwali in Pondicherry.
Best Thing to Do: Visit Aurobindo Ashram, enjoy French cuisine, and explore the French Quarter.
Number of Days Required: 2-3 days.
25. Vrindavan, Uttar Pradesh
The town of Vrindavan, associated with Lord Krishna, celebrates Diwali with great fervor. Temples are adorned with flowers and diyas, and the evening celebrations are enchanting.
Why Visit: Celebrate a spiritually enriching Diwali in the town associated with Lord Krishna.
Best Thing to Do: Visit temples, participate in devotional activities, and savor traditional sweets.
Number of Days Required: 2-3 days.
In Conclusion
These 25 destinations provide a diverse range of experiences for your Diwali vacation in 2023. Whether you seek spiritual immersion, cultural vibrancy, natural beauty, or a mix of it all, India offers it in abundance during this festive season. Plan your Diwali getaway to one of these incredible places and make the most of this joyous time with your family and friends. Happy Diwali!
![Kedarnath Yatra 2023 – How to plan a trip [Complete Travel Guide]](https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_300,h_225/https://wewisepeople.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Kedarnath-Yatra-300x225.jpg)