Published on October 15, 2026
Diwali is one of the most exciting times to travel through India, but the celebrations look different from one region to another. If you’re searching for places to visit in India beyond your usual family celebrations, consider turning your trip home into a festive holiday. From Ayodhya’s spectacular riverfront illuminations to Kolkata’s Kali Puja and Goa’s dramatic Narkasur effigies, every destination offers a different experience of the Diwali festival in India. Whether you’re travelling with family, planning a romantic getaway or introducing an Australian partner to India’s festive traditions, these destinations are worth adding to your itinerary.
Where to celebrate Diwali in India at a glance
If you’re deciding where to celebrate Diwali, start by thinking about the kind of holiday you want. Some destinations are centred around religious ceremonies, while others offer illuminated streets, historic architecture, lakeside views and lively city celebrations. Here’s a quick guide to the best cities to visit in India during Diwali.
| Destination | Festive vibe | Best for | Nearest airport |
| Ayodhya | Spiritual | Families, first-timers | Maharishi Valmiki International Airport |
| Varanasi | Spiritual and cultural | Couples, culture lovers | Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport |
| Amritsar | Spiritual and peaceful | Families, first-timers | Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport |
| Jaipur | Royal and colourful | Couples, families | Jaipur International Airport |
| Udaipur | Romantic and lakeside | Couples, families | Maharana Pratap Airport |
| Kolkata | Cultural and devotional | Culture lovers, families | Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport |
| Goa | Coastal and lively | Friends, couples | Manohar International Airport or Dabolim Airport |
| Mumbai | Big city and energetic | Friends, first-timers | Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport |
1. Ayodhya, for Deepotsav on the Saryu riverbank
Image suggestion: Ayodhya’s Saryu riverbank illuminated with thousands of diyas during Deepotsav.
For a Diwali experience rooted in the story of Lord Rama, Ayodhya is one of the most meaningful places to visit in India. The city is closely associated with his return after 14 years of exile, and its annual Deepotsav celebrations bring that tradition to life on a remarkable scale.
The main attraction is the illumination along the Saryu River, particularly around Ram Ki Paidi and the city’s ghats. Thousands of volunteers help arrange and light earthen lamps, while the wider celebration can include devotional performances, cultural programmes, aarti ceremonies and spectacular lighting displays.
The scale is impressive. In 2025, Ayodhya lit 26,17,215 diyas across 56 ghats, setting a Guinness World Record for the largest display of oil lamps. It is a memorable sight, particularly for visitors who want to experience the spiritual side of Diwali rather than simply watch the festivities from a distance.
Local tip: Plan your visit well ahead and arrive early for the main celebrations. Crowds can be significant, and access to popular viewing areas may be restricted. Consider staying for at least two nights to explore the Ram Mandir and other important sites without rushing.
Nearest airport: Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, Ayodhya.
Flights: Fly into Delhi and arrange onward travel to Ayodhya. Explore flights to India with Gaura Travel.
2. Varanasi, for Diwali on the ghats and Dev Deepawali
Image suggestion: Rows of glowing diyas along Varanasi’s ghats overlooking the River Ganges.
Varanasi offers one of India’s most atmospheric festive experiences. Set along the River Ganges, this ancient city is known for its ghats, temples, spiritual ceremonies and evening Ganga Aarti. During Diwali, homes, shops and religious spaces are decorated with lights and lamps, creating an especially beautiful atmosphere throughout the city.
However, there is another celebration worth planning around. Dev Deepawali takes place on Kartik Purnima, approximately two weeks after Diwali. It is a separate festival, often described as the Diwali of the Gods. On this night, the ghats are illuminated with enormous numbers of diyas, while religious ceremonies and cultural performances take place along the riverfront.
If you have enough time, consider extending your stay to experience both occasions. The contrast between the main Diwali celebrations and Dev Deepawali gives you two different perspectives on Varanasi’s festive traditions.
Local tip: Book accommodation overlooking the river well in advance if you want a memorable view. A boat ride can offer a wonderful perspective of the illuminated ghats, but book through a reputable local operator and follow crowd-management instructions.
Nearest airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi.
Flights: Fly into Varanasi directly where available, or connect through Delhi. Compare flights to India.
3. Amritsar, for Bandi Chhor Divas at the Golden Temple
Image suggestion: The Golden Temple illuminated with lights and reflected in the Amrit Sarovar at night.
Amritsar offers a particularly special experience during Diwali through Bandi Chhor Divas, an important Sikh celebration observed around the same time. The occasion commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji, the sixth Sikh Guru, from imprisonment at Gwalior Fort, along with 52 princes.
The celebrations are centred around Sri Harmandir Sahib, widely known as the Golden Temple. Its golden architecture, surrounding water and illuminated complex create an unforgettable sight after sunset. Visitors can experience devotional singing, prayers and the welcoming atmosphere of the temple grounds.
Beyond the celebrations, Amritsar is an excellent destination for exploring Punjabi culture. Spend time around the old city, sample local food and visit Jallianwala Bagh or the Partition Museum. It is an especially meaningful stop for travellers who want to combine a festive holiday with history and heritage.
Local tip: The Golden Temple is a place of worship, so dress respectfully, cover your head and remove your shoes before entering. Visitors of all backgrounds are welcome, and the community kitchen, or langar, offers free meals to everyone.
Nearest airport: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, Amritsar.
Flights: Explore Melbourne to Amritsar flights.
4. Jaipur, for lit-up bazaars and palaces
Image suggestion: Jaipur’s illuminated Hawa Mahal and festive lights across the Pink City’s markets.
If you love shopping, architecture and lively streets, Jaipur is one of the best places to visit during Diwali. Rajasthan’s Pink City takes its festive decorations seriously, with markets, shops and historic buildings covered in colourful lights.
Johari Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar and Tripolia Bazaar are particularly worth exploring. During the lead-up to Diwali, shopfronts compete to create the most impressive displays, making an evening walk through the old city feel like a celebration in itself. It’s also a great opportunity to shop for traditional Rajasthani textiles, jewellery, handicrafts and festive decorations.
During the day, explore Jaipur’s famous landmarks, including Hawa Mahal, City Palace and Amber Fort. You can also enjoy traditional Rajasthani food at local restaurants before heading back into the illuminated streets after sunset.
Local tip: Visit the old city’s markets in the evening, but allow extra time for traffic and crowds. If you’re shopping for jewellery or handicrafts, compare prices and check product details before making larger purchases.
Nearest airport: Jaipur International Airport.
Flights: Fly into Jaipur or connect through Delhi. Explore flights to India.
5. Udaipur, for lamps across Lake Pichola
Image suggestion: Lake Pichola at dusk, with illuminated palaces, lakeside buildings and reflections on the water.
Alt text: Udaipur Diwali celebrations with glowing lights reflected across Lake Pichola.
For a more relaxed and romantic festive escape, Udaipur is hard to overlook. Known as the City of Lakes, it combines historic palaces, beautiful waterfront views and traditional Rajasthani architecture. During Diwali, the city takes on an especially magical atmosphere as homes, hotels, temples and lakeside ghats are decorated with lamps and lights.
Lake Pichola is the highlight. The surrounding buildings and palaces create beautiful reflections across the water, particularly around sunset and after dark. The City Palace is another must-see, with its impressive architecture overlooking the lake. You can also explore the narrow streets around the old city, browse local craft shops and enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant.
Udaipur is a lovely option if you’d prefer a festive holiday that feels a little slower than the larger cities. It’s particularly suited to couples, families and travellers who want a mix of sightseeing, food and scenic views.
Local tip: Book a lakeside stay early, especially if you want a room with a view. An evening boat ride on Lake Pichola is worth considering, although availability and operating times can vary during busy festival periods.
Nearest airport: Maharana Pratap Airport, Udaipur.
6. Kolkata, for Kali Puja on Diwali night
Image suggestion: A beautifully decorated Kali Puja pandal in Kolkata with an illuminated idol of Goddess Kali.
Alt text: Kolkata Diwali celebrations featuring a decorated Kali Puja pandal and Goddess Kali.
Kolkata celebrates Diwali with a distinctive tradition: Kali Puja. While many parts of India focus on Lakshmi Puja, Bengali households and communities across West Bengal devote the night to Goddess Kali, associated with strength, protection and the triumph of good over evil.
The city becomes lively with decorated pandals, illuminated streets, devotional ceremonies and community celebrations. Visitors can explore different neighbourhoods to see the elaborate arrangements created for Kali Puja, with some displays featuring impressive artistic designs and detailed idols.
Kolkata is also a wonderful destination for anyone interested in food and culture. Spend the day exploring colonial architecture, historic markets and the city’s famous cafés before heading out in the evening to experience the festivities. Try local Bengali dishes and traditional sweets such as sandesh and mishti doi while you’re there.
Local tip: Kali Puja is a major occasion, so expect busy streets and temporary traffic arrangements around popular pandals. Choose a few neighbourhoods to explore rather than trying to cover the entire city in one evening.
Nearest airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata.
7. Goa, for the Narakasur effigies on the eve of Diwali
Image suggestion: A large, colourful Narkasur effigy displayed during a community celebration in Goa.
Alt text: Goa Diwali celebrations featuring a colourful Narakasur effigy before dawn.
Goa offers one of the most distinctive Diwali experiences in India. On the eve of the festival, communities across the state create large effigies of Narakasur, the demon from Hindu mythology who was defeated by Lord Krishna. Known locally as Narkasur, these figures are often made using bamboo, paper, cloth and other materials.
The effigies are displayed in neighbourhoods and public spaces, with some communities organising competitions to showcase their creations. Celebrations often continue late into the night, with the figures traditionally burnt before dawn to symbolise the victory of good over evil.
The festive atmosphere is different from the more temple-centred celebrations found elsewhere. You can experience local traditions while also enjoying Goa’s beaches, Portuguese-influenced heritage, markets and food scene. It’s a great choice if you want to combine cultural experiences with a coastal holiday.
Local tip: Head out with a local guide or someone familiar with the area, as celebrations take place across different neighbourhoods and timings vary. Be mindful of crowds and temporary road closures, particularly around popular effigy displays.
Nearest airport: Manohar International Airport in North Goa or Dabolim Airport in South Goa.
Flights: Compare flights to Goa through major Indian gateways. Explore flights to India.
8. Mumbai, for Marine Drive lights and big-city celebrations
Image suggestion: Mumbai’s Marine Drive illuminated at night, with the city skyline and coastal road in view.
Alt text: Mumbai Diwali celebrations with the illuminated Marine Drive coastline at night.
If you enjoy the energy of a major city, Mumbai is an exciting place to spend Diwali. The city celebrates with illuminated homes, decorated shopping districts, festive markets and family gatherings. It offers a different atmosphere from India’s smaller pilgrimage cities, with a mix of modern celebrations and traditional customs.
Marine Drive is one of the city’s most recognisable spots. Known as the Queen’s Necklace, its curved coastal road is lined with streetlights that create a beautiful string of lights after sunset. During the festive season, it’s a lovely place to enjoy the city skyline and sea views.
You can also explore South Mumbai’s historic neighbourhoods, visit the Gateway of India, browse Colaba Causeway and enjoy the city’s diverse food scene. For shopping, festive decorations and local atmosphere, explore areas such as Dadar, Bandra and the markets around Crawford Market.
Local tip: Marine Drive is popular throughout the year, so expect crowds in the evening. Use public transport or app-based rides where practical, and leave extra time for traffic during the festive period.
Nearest airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai.
Flights: Explore flights to Mumbai.
Tips for a Diwali holiday in India
A Diwali holiday can be unforgettable, but it is also one of the busiest travel periods in India. A little planning can make a big difference, particularly if you’re travelling from Australia and visiting more than one city.
Book flights and accommodation early. Diwali is a peak travel period, with families travelling across the country and popular destinations experiencing high demand. Book international flights, domestic connections and accommodation well ahead of time. If your dates are flexible, compare fares across a few days.
Allow extra time for travel. Roads around major temples, markets and festival venues can become congested. Public transport may also be busier than usual. Avoid planning tight connections or several major activities on the same day as the main celebrations.
Check local opening hours. Some shops, offices and businesses may close or operate reduced hours during the festival. Restaurants and attractions may also have different schedules, so check ahead before making plans.
Be mindful of air quality. Air pollution can become a concern in parts of North India around Diwali, particularly where fireworks are widely used. Check local air quality updates, especially if you’re travelling with children or anyone sensitive to pollution. Consider carrying a suitable mask if conditions require it.
Stay connected while travelling. Having mobile data makes it easier to navigate unfamiliar streets, book transport, check flight details and stay in touch with family. Read our guide to eSIMs for India from Australia before departure to understand your options.
Plan around the festival dates. Diwali follows the Hindu lunar calendar, so the date changes each year. Check the calendar for the year you’re travelling and confirm local event schedules closer to departure. If you’re planning to attend Dev Deepawali in Varanasi, remember that it takes place separately on Kartik Purnima.
Frequently asked questions
It depends on the experience you’re looking for. Ayodhya is ideal for the large-scale Deepotsav celebrations, Varanasi offers a spiritual atmosphere along the Ganges, Amritsar is known for Bandi Chhor Divas at the Golden Temple, and Jaipur is perfect for illuminated markets and royal architecture.
Diwali will fall on 29 October 2027. As the date changes each year according to the Hindu lunar calendar, it’s worth checking the festival calendar before booking flights and accommodation. Popular destinations can fill up well in advance.
No. Dev Deepawali is a separate celebration observed on Kartik Purnima, approximately 15 days after Diwali. It is particularly famous in Varanasi, where the ghats along the River Ganges are illuminated with thousands of lamps and visitors gather for religious ceremonies and cultural events.
Yes. Diwali is a wonderful time to experience India’s festivals, food, traditions and local culture. However, it is also a peak travel period, so expect crowds, higher demand for accommodation and busy transport networks. Booking ahead and allowing flexibility in your itinerary will help.
Make your Diwali holiday in India one to remember
From the spiritual celebrations of Ayodhya to the lakeside beauty of Udaipur and the coastal atmosphere of Goa, there are so many great places to visit in India during Diwali. Whether you’re adding a few days to your family visit or planning a longer festive holiday, the right destination can make your trip even more special. Start planning early and explore flights to India with Gaura Travel to make your next journey home memorable.