India is known for its varied culture – distinctive from each other. From snow-capped mountains to lush green valleys and the chaos of night bazaars, everything about this land is mind-boggling.
One of the best times to visit India is during the Diwali festival celebration. The air during this time is full of festivities and pomp. To experience the diverse cultures in India, Diwali is one of the spectacular times to visit this place.
Best places to visit for Diwali celebration in India
Planning to visit India this festive season? Let’s check out some of the best places to visit for Diwali celebration in India.
1) Varanasi
Also known as Banaras, this city is one of the most important holy places for Hindus all around the world. Once in your lifetime, visit this place where the river Ganga meets the ocean and is the widest here. If you are planning to visit Banaras on Diwali, you will witness a constant stream of firecrackers and fireworks. The Ganga Ghats illuminate with dazzling lines of diyas and candles. There will be the very special Ganga Aarti when the Varanasi Ghats (especially the Dashashwamedh Ghat) is decked up with earthen lamps, which are later drawn in the river. To get the best view of the Ganga Mahotsav and Dev Deepavali (It occurs just two weeks after Diwali), opt for a riverside hotel.
2) Ayodhya
Ayodhya is the birthplace of Lord Ram and Diwali is marked as the day when Lord Ram returned to Ayodhya with his beloved wife Rani Sita and Brother Laxman, after 14 years of exile and defeating Ravana. People from different places visit the banks of the river Sarayu and lit lakhs of earthen lamps. Almost three lakhs diyas are lit every year and are marked in the Guinness Books of Records.
3) Kolkata
The entire world celebrates Diwali by worshipping Goddess Laxmi (Goddess of wealth), Kolkata celebrates Kali Puja, which is a remarkable experience and treats to watch. Every year, Maa Kali temples situated in Kolkata like Kalighat, Belur Math, Dakshineswar attract a huge number of tourists and devotees during Diwali.
Fearless idols of Goddess Kali are beautifully decorated. On this day, Maa Kali is worshiped for her ability to destroy all the negativity, ego, and illusions. It is an amazing experience to walk through the streets of Kolkata where Diwali and its grandeur are upscale.
4) Gujarat
Diwali may become noisy due to the firecrackers in this state. However, if you want to celebrate the real Diwali in Gujarat, visit the rural areas where the village inhabits local tribes who welcome tourists with open arms. From cooking organic meals to receiving art demonstrations, Diwali this year can be a good learning experience for people who love art and culture. You can take back some learning with this experience and make your future Diwali celebrations as eco-friendly as possible.
5) Delhi
The state capital always sets an example when it comes to Diwali celebrations in India. From exquisite handicrafts to the annual Dastkar Festival of Lights and Diwali Mela, Delhi adds radiance to Diwali celebrations in the city. There are various Diwali melas and carnivals held across the city which will make your vacation more thrilling.
Book your flights to visit the best places during Diwali to experience the festival of lights and relish the beauty of India during Diwali celebrations.