5 Best Places To Enjoy Diwali In India

The most significant Indian festival of the year has arrived! Diwali, the festival of lights, is rapidly approaching. As one of India's most renowned and widely celebrated festivals, Diwali symbolizes prosperity and joy for all.

Known also as Deepavali, Diwali is observed throughout India to honor Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after his 14-year exile and his victory over Ravana. To commemorate Lord Rama's triumph, people adorn the city with illuminations.

Therefore, Diwali represents a time for families to strengthen their bonds and commemorate the victory of good over evil. During this festival, individuals ignite fireworks, embellish their homes with lights, and extend warm greetings to one another through the exchange of gifts and sweets.

Take a glimpse at the top 5 destinations in India to experience an extraordinary Diwali celebration. Witness the opulence and observe how this auspicious occasion is celebrated in various cities across India.

# Varanasi

Diwali is observed in Varanasi with immense enthusiasm and passion, marking the arrival of winter. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit of this sacred city to truly experience the celebration. You can kick off your festivities by partaking in a purifying bath in the holy Ganges. Explore the vibrant markets of Varanasi to purchase colorful traditional attire and an array of delectable sweets. The city's ghats offer the most splendid Diwali celebrations in India, allowing you to craft indelible memories during your festive holiday.

The festivities, however, do not conclude there. Fifteen days after Diwali, Varanasi continues its merriment with Dev Deepawali. This post-Diwali celebration commemorates Lord Shiva's victory over the demon Tripurasur and is also known as Tripurotsav. It takes place on Kartik Purnima, which coincides with the full moon day according to the Hindu calendar.

# Kolkata

While Kolkata is renowned for its famous Durga Puja, the Diwali festivities in the City of Joy are relatively lesser-known. In most cities across India, Diwali is typically associated with the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, but in Kolkata, it's Goddess Kali who takes center stage. The ambiance surrounding Kali temples and the rituals observed during this winter festival in India are truly captivating. The auspicious evening is marked by immense joy and enthusiasm, making Kolkata one of the top destinations to experience the vibrancy of Diwali celebrations in India.

To partake in this grand occasion, you can visit revered religious shrines like the Kalighat Temple and the Dakshineswar Temple. Venturing out to explore various pandals, you'll be mesmerized by the distinctive decorations and the elaborate arrangements for worship. For shopping and dining, areas such as Park Street and New Market offer the best options to enhance your Diwali experience.

# Jaipur

Indulge in the Diwali festivities with a festival excursion to the Pink City. In Jaipur, the locals come together to celebrate the festival of lights with a sense of unity, relishing ethnic performances and shows. The vibrant markets exude a celebratory atmosphere, making Jaipur the ultimate destination for an exceptional Diwali celebration.

On the night of Diwali, which marks one of the five days of celebrations, the markets are illuminated brilliantly, allowing people to shop well into the late hours. You can savor the delectable Marwari cuisine or browse for charming souvenirs to gift to your loved ones.

# Goa

The perfect blend of Diwali celebrations and gambling can be found in Goa, a pocket-sized paradise in India. Goa offers a unique version of Diwali, celebrated on Naraka Chaturdashi. This celebration resembles the traditional ritual of burning effigies representing Ravana, his son Meghnath, and brother Kumbhakaran. Goans believe that on this day, the demon Narakasura, who brought terror to villages and their inhabitants, was defeated by Lord Krishna. As a result, people in Goa commemorate this event on Naraka Chaturdashi, also known as Choti Diwali.

Homes are adorned with vibrant lights and adorned with colorful Rangoli patterns created from colored powders and rice. For a tranquil Diwali celebration, visiting the serene beaches of Goa is the ideal way to experience the festival.

# Amritsar

Amritsar, renowned as the abode of the Golden Temple, stands as one of the prime destinations to explore during Diwali. While Hindus and other communities celebrate Diwali, Sikhs commemorate the historic release of the sixth Guru, Guru Hargobind, from imprisonment in 1619 and his return to Amritsar. This day is celebrated as Bandi Chhor Divas, signifying the day of liberation of prisoners.

To fully immerse yourself in the Diwali festivities in Amritsar, a visit to the Golden Temple is a must. The festival is observed on a grand scale at this iconic location, and the Golden Temple takes on a breathtaking appearance when adorned with lights. Experience the enchanting spectacle of fireworks against the backdrop of the Golden Temple. Special prayers and kirtans resonate throughout the city, creating a truly remarkable atmosphere.