Best Places to Celebrate Diwali: A Complete Travel Guide

Introduction

Diwali is one of the most vibrant and joyous festivals in the world. Often called the Festival of Lights, Diwali goes beyond just being a religious celebration; it is a cultural event that unites people through lights, colors, food, and traditions. Families gather to decorate homes with diyas, exchange sweets, and burst fireworks. However, as much as celebrating Diwali at home is heartwarming, many travelers now look for the best places to celebrate Diwali in a grand and unforgettable way.

Different places in India and abroad have their own unique charm. From the ghats of Varanasi glowing with diyas to the Golden Temple of Amritsar shining in reflections, and from the royal palaces of Rajasthan to the international vibes of Singapore, each destination offers a magical way to celebrate. If you are wondering which are the best places to celebrate Diwali this year, this guide will help you explore them all.

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Why Travel to Celebrate Diwali in Different Places?

When you celebrate Diwali in new places, you don’t just experience lights and fireworks—you live the traditions that vary from region to region. For example, while Ayodhya is famous for its grand Deepotsav, Kolkata combines Diwali with Kali Puja. In contrast, Amritsar celebrates Diwali at the Golden Temple with thousands of lamps reflecting in the sacred water. Each of these places adds a new layer of beauty and meaning to the festival.

Moreover, traveling to celebrate Diwali gives you the chance to meet locals, taste authentic festive food, and witness cultural performances that you wouldn’t see otherwise. And since Diwali is not just celebrated in India but also in many international places, travelers can explore the global reach of the festival too.

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Top 5 Best Places to Celebrate Diwali in India

1. Ayodhya – The Origin of Diwali’s Story

If you are looking for the best place to celebrate Diwali, Ayodhya tops the list. According to the Ramayana, Diwali marks the day when Lord Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana. The people of Ayodhya lit diyas to welcome him, and that is how the festival began. Today, Ayodhya celebrates Deepotsav, where millions of diyas are lit across the city, creating a breathtaking view.

Every year, the event grows bigger with cultural programs, Ram Leela performances, fireworks, and special prayers. The atmosphere in Ayodhya during Diwali is not just festive—it’s spiritual and emotional. If you want to celebrate Diwali in a place that connects directly with its roots, Ayodhya is without doubt one of the best places.

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2. Varanasi – Diwali by the Ganges

The holy city of Varanasi transforms into a wonderland during Diwali. The ghats along the Ganges River are decorated with countless diyas, and the sound of bells and chants fills the air. One of the most breathtaking moments is the Ganga Aarti, where priests perform rituals with fire lamps while fireworks light up the sky above.

But what makes Varanasi even more special is Dev Deepawali, celebrated a few days after Diwali. On this day, the entire stretch of ghats glows with millions of diyas, creating a sight that feels like heaven on earth. If you want to celebrate Diwali in one of the best spiritual places, Varanasi should be on your list.

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3. Amritsar – Diwali at the Golden Temple

Amritsar offers one of the most unique and mesmerizing ways to celebrate Diwali. At the heart of it is the Golden Temple, which is decorated with lights and diyas. The entire complex glows, and its reflection in the holy Sarovar (water tank) is a sight to behold.

On Diwali night, fireworks fill the sky while the community gathers to celebrate with devotion. Along with the lights, there is also a strong sense of unity and service, as langar (community food) is served to thousands of visitors. Among all places, the Golden Temple in Amritsar is undoubtedly one of the best to celebrate Diwali in a peaceful yet grand manner.

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4. Jaipur & Udaipur – The Royal Diwali Celebrations of Rajasthan

If you want to celebrate Diwali in a royal style, then Jaipur and Udaipur are the best places to visit. Jaipur is famous for its beautifully decorated markets, forts, and palaces. Every corner of the city glitters with lights and decorations, turning the Pink City into a golden paradise.

Meanwhile, Udaipur, with its lakes and palaces, becomes even more enchanting during Diwali. The reflection of diyas in the lakes creates a magical atmosphere. Staying in a palace hotel during Diwali here feels like being part of royal history. Truly, Rajasthan’s grandeur makes it one of the best places to celebrate Diwali in India.

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5. Kolkata – Diwali and Kali Puja Together

In Kolkata, Diwali coincides with Kali Puja, which makes the celebrations unique. Instead of only Lakshmi Puja, the focus here is on worshipping Goddess Kali. The city comes alive with lights, candles, and artistic decorations. Pandals are set up, similar to Durga Puja, and the festive spirit spreads everywhere.

Fireworks, sweets, and cultural events add more joy. Celebrating Diwali in Kolkata gives you a chance to see how traditions can blend while still keeping the festival spirit alive. This makes Kolkata one of the best places to celebrate Diwali with a different cultural touch.

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Other Best Places to Celebrate Diwali in India

Delhi – Capital of Festive Energy

As the capital of India, Delhi celebrates Diwali with unmatched enthusiasm. Streets and markets are full of lights and shopping stalls, while homes are decorated with rangolis and lamps. The fireworks display in Delhi is one of the grandest in the country.

Mumbai – City of Glamour and Lights

In Mumbai, Diwali has a modern yet traditional feel. From sea-facing fireworks at Marine Drive to grand house parties, the festival is celebrated in both public and private spaces. The energy of the city makes it one of the best places to celebrate Diwali with a mix of culture and modernity.

Chennai & Bangalore – Southern Charm

While Diwali in North India is about diyas and fireworks, in the South it has its own style. In Chennai and Bangalore, families celebrate with early morning oil baths, sweets, and crackers. The community spirit here is warm and welcoming, making these places worth exploring during Diwali.

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International Best Places to Celebrate Diwali

Singapore

In Singapore, Diwali is celebrated in Little India, where the streets are lit up with colorful lights and decorations. The Diwali bazaars here sell everything from sweets to traditional clothes, making it one of the best places outside India to celebrate Diwali.

Nepal

In Nepal, Diwali is celebrated as Tihar. The festival lasts for five days and includes the worship of animals like crows, dogs, and cows, along with lights and fireworks. It’s a unique twist on Diwali that makes Nepal one of the best international places to celebrate.

Mauritius

With a large Indian community, Mauritius celebrates Diwali with grandeur. Homes are decorated, and the island glows with lights. The beachside celebrations add a tropical flavor, making it one of the best places abroad for Diwali.

London & USA

Cities like London and parts of the USA (New Jersey, California) host large community Diwali events. Fireworks, cultural performances, and Diwali melas bring together people of all backgrounds. Celebrating here shows how Diwali has become a global festival.

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Tips to Celebrate Diwali in the Best Way While Traveling

1. Plan Early – The best places to celebrate Diwali get crowded, so book hotels and tickets in advance.
2. Join Local Celebrations – Participate in community aartis, cultural programs, and local feasts.
3. Dress Traditionally – Wear ethnic clothes to truly feel part of the festival.
4. Stay Safe – Fireworks can be risky, so follow safety measures.
5. Go Eco-Friendly – Use diyas instead of plastic lights and avoid excessive crackers.

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Conclusion

Diwali is not just a festival; it is an experience that becomes richer when celebrated in the right places. Whether you choose the spiritual ghats of Varanasi, the historical Ayodhya, the glowing Golden Temple of Amritsar, the royal palaces of Rajasthan, or the cultural vibes of Kolkata, every destination offers something unique. Even outside India, places like Singapore, Nepal, and London give Diwali a global identity.

So, if you want this year’s festival to be unforgettable, pack your bags and head to one of these best places to celebrate Diwali. After all, the festival of lights deserves to be celebrated in the brightest and most memorable way possible.

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