10 Indian Cities Known for Their Grand Dussehra Celebrations!

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of India’s most vibrant and celebrated festivals. Marking the victory of good over evil, it symbolizes Lord Rama's triumph over the demon king Ravana, and in some parts of India, it also celebrates Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura. Across the country, the festival is celebrated with grandeur, each region showcasing its unique customs, traditions, and cultural vibrance. If you’re planning to experience Dussehra in all its glory, these ten Indian cities offer some of the most spectacular celebrations.

1. Mysuru, Karnataka – The Royal Dussehra

When it comes to Dussehra celebrations, Mysuru tops the list with its majestic and regal festivities. Known as the Mysuru Dasara, the 10-day festival is celebrated in honor of Goddess Chamundeshwari, the city’s patron deity. The Mysore Palace is illuminated with over 100,000 lights every night, creating a spellbinding scene. The grand procession, or Jumbo Savari, on Vijayadashami, where richly adorned elephants parade through the streets, is the highlight of the festival. The celebrations conclude with a dazzling display of fireworks that light up the city’s night sky.

Why Visit?: For its royal legacy, illuminated palaces, and vibrant processions.

2. Kolkata, West Bengal – The Cultural Dussehra

Dussehra in Kolkata coincides with the end of Durga Puja, making it one of the most culturally significant festivals in India. The entire city is decked up in lights, and enormous artistic idols of Goddess Durga are installed at beautifully decorated pandals. Vijayadashami marks the immersion of these idols in the Hooghly River, accompanied by traditional dances, songs, and chants. The Sindoor Khela, where married women smear each other with vermilion, adds a joyous touch to the day.

Why Visit?: For its artistic pandals, cultural richness, and electrifying immersion processions.

3. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – The Spiritual Dussehra

In Varanasi, one of India’s most ancient cities, Dussehra is celebrated with a unique spiritual fervor. The city’s famous Ram Lila, a dramatic enactment of Lord Rama’s life, is staged in various localities for several days leading up to Dussehra. On Vijayadashami, the effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhakarna are burnt at the Ramnagar Fort with thousands of spectators watching in awe. This age-old tradition continues to captivate people from across the country.

Why Visit?: For the spiritual experience, traditional Ram Lila performances, and historical significance.

4. Delhi – The Iconic Ramlila Maidan Dussehra

Delhi is home to some of the most iconic Ram Lila performances, especially at the Ramlila Maidan and the Red Fort grounds. Dussehra celebrations in the capital are marked by grand effigy burnings of Ravana, showcasing a dramatic retelling of the Ramayana. The city’s enthusiasm peaks during the vibrant fairs, food stalls, and cultural events that take place alongside these celebrations. The larger-than-life Ravana effigies, often towering as high as 100 feet, are the main attraction.

Why Visit?: For its larger-than-life effigies, cultural fairs, and lively atmosphere.

5. Kullu, Himachal Pradesh – The Folk Dussehra

Kullu Dussehra is an international attraction and is unlike any other Dussehra celebration in the country. Instead of burning effigies of Ravana, Kullu’s celebration is centered around the worship of Lord Raghunath (Lord Rama). The festival lasts for seven days, during which deities from different valleys in Himachal are carried in processions to the Dhalpur Maidan. The final day features a majestic Chariot Procession that draws tourists from across the globe.

Why Visit?: For its folk traditions, colorful processions, and serene mountain setting.

6. Ahmedabad, Gujarat – The Vibrant Garba Dussehra

In Gujarat, Dussehra celebrations are inseparable from the nine-night Navratri festival that precedes it. Ahmedabad, in particular, becomes the epicenter of dance, music, and devotion during these days. The traditional Garba and Dandiya Raas dances are performed in massive gatherings with people dressed in colorful ethnic attire. The tenth day, Dussehra, is marked by the aarti and the symbolic burning of Ravana’s effigies, celebrating Lord Rama’s victory.

Why Visit?: For the energetic Garba nights, rhythmic dandiya beats, and cultural vibrancy.

7. Bastar, Chhattisgarh – The Tribal Dussehra

Bastar Dussehra, celebrated in Jagdalpur, is one of the longest and most unique Dussehra festivals in India, lasting for 75 days! This tribal Dussehra is not related to Lord Rama’s victory but is dedicated to the worship of Ma Danteshwari, the local deity. The festival involves tribal rituals, traditional dances, and a grand procession with a chariot carrying the idol of the goddess. The entire region participates in this extraordinary celebration.

Why Visit?: For its tribal customs, vibrant traditions, and an insight into indigenous culture.

8. Madikeri, Karnataka – The Kodava Dussehra

Dussehra in the hill station of Madikeri, located in Coorg, is celebrated with a blend of devotion and pageantry. Known as Madikeri Dasara, the festival is marked by the Kari Savari, a procession of deities from various temples. The festivities include a unique feature – the Mantapa Procession, where beautifully decorated floats depicting mythological scenes are paraded through the streets. The celebration is a vibrant reflection of Coorg's rich culture.

Why Visit?: For the stunning processions, rich Kodava traditions, and the scenic hill station setting.

9. Barara, Haryana – The World’s Tallest Ravana Effigy

If you want to witness the world’s tallest Ravana effigy, then head to Barara in Haryana. Over the years, this small town has gained fame for constructing record-breaking Ravana effigies, some towering as high as 210 feet. The spectacle of the enormous effigies going up in flames amidst fireworks is a sight to behold. The town’s dedication to the festival has put it on the map for Dussehra celebrations in northern India.

Why Visit?: For the awe-inspiring giant effigies and the dramatic fireworks display.

10. Mangalore, Karnataka – The Coastal Dussehra

Mangalore’s Dussehra celebrations are known for their coastal charm and vibrant traditions. The festival is primarily celebrated at the Sri Gokarnanatheshwara Temple with great pomp. The highlight of Mangalore Dussehra is the grand Mangaluru Dasara procession, which includes over 100 vibrant tableaux, dance troupes, and cultural displays winding through the city’s streets. The city lights up with festivity, and the atmosphere is filled with joy and excitement.

Why Visit?: For the coastal traditions, lively processions, and stunning temple decorations.

India’s Dussehra celebrations reflect the diversity and unity of its culture. From the royal processions of Mysuru to the folk traditions of Kullu and the artistic grandeur of Kolkata, every region adds its unique flavor to the festival. Whether you want to experience spiritual traditions, artistic expressions, or lively processions, these ten cities offer an unforgettable glimpse into the rich cultural fabric of India during Dussehra.

So pack your bags, and let the festive spirit of Dussehra lead your next adventure!