Top 10 Places to Celebrate Diwali in India, 2024!

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is more than just a celebration—it's a radiant spectacle that lights up India with joy, hope, and devotion. As millions of oil lamps flicker in unison and fireworks paint the night sky, each city and town offers its own unique twist on this grand occasion. From the sacred ghats of Varanasi to the regal palaces of Jaipur, and from the bustling streets of Delhi to the serene beaches of Goa, Diwali transforms the country into a shimmering wonderland. If you’re looking to experience the magic of Diwali in all its glory, here are the top 10 places in India where the festival shines the brightest!

1. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Varanasi (Banaras), one of India’s holiest cities, offers a surreal Diwali experience, blending spirituality and festivities. On Dev Deepavali, which falls 15 days after Diwali, the ghats along the Ganges River are lit with millions of oil lamps (diyas), creating a magical ambiance. Fireworks illuminate the sky, and devotees participate in Ganga Aarti, a grand ritual to honor the sacred river. The blend of chants, incense, and lights makes Varanasi an ethereal destination for Diwali celebrations.

Star Attractions:

• Dev Deepavali on the Ganges
• Ganga Aarti and lighting of oil lamps on ghats
• Fireworks over the river

2. Jaipur, Rajasthan

Known for its royal grandeur, Jaipur is a visual treat during Diwali. The Pink City comes alive with beautifully illuminated markets, palaces, and homes. The city organizes a Light Competition, where markets and buildings compete for the most dazzling decorations. Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar are the heart of the festivities, where people flock to shop for jewelry, sweets, and clothes.

Star Attractions:

• Magnificent illumination of palaces and forts
• Traditional Rajasthani folk performances
• Diwali markets, especially Johari Bazaar

3. Amritsar, Punjab

In Amritsar, Diwali coincides with the Sikh celebration of Bandi Chhor Divas, commemorating Guru Hargobind Singh Ji’s release from imprisonment. The Golden Temple is an unparalleled sight as it is illuminated with thousands of lights, and the reflection of the temple in the surrounding water is mesmerizing. Fireworks displays light up the sky, and langar (community meals) feed thousands.

Star Attractions:

• The Golden Temple illuminated with lamps and fireworks
• Sikh festival of Bandi Chhor Divas
• Community feasts at the Gurudwara

4. Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh

Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram, has deep mythological ties to Diwali. It is believed to be the place where Lord Ram returned after 14 years of exile, and the people lit lamps to welcome him. Today, Ayodhya recreates that event with Deepotsav, where the banks of the Sarayu River are lit with over a million oil lamps. The city organizes grand processions, fireworks, and cultural performances.

Star Attractions:

• Deepotsav with millions of oil lamps on the Sarayu River
• Re-enactment of Lord Ram’s return to Ayodhya
• Cultural events and fireworks

5. Kolkata, West Bengal

In Kolkata, Diwali coincides with Kali Puja, which is dedicated to Goddess Kali. Temples and homes are illuminated with oil lamps, and spectacular pandals (temporary structures) are set up across the city, similar to Durga Puja. Firecrackers light up the night, and special Kali Puja rituals are performed in the temples of Kalighat and Dakshineswar. The cultural richness and unique blend of worship and celebration make Kolkata a special destination for Diwali.

Star Attractions:

• Kali Puja with decorated pandals
• Special rituals at Kalighat and Dakshineswar temples
• Illuminated streets and fireworks

6. Mumbai, Maharashtra

Mumbai’s Diwali celebrations are a mix of traditional and modern festivities. Marine Drive, also known as the Queen’s Necklace, is one of the best places to experience the sparkle of Diwali lights. The city’s beaches, such as Juhu and Girgaum Chowpatty, witness large gatherings for fireworks. Traditional Diwali sweets like modak and karanji are a must-try, and families gather for Lakshmi Puja in their homes.

Star Attractions:

• Fireworks at Marine Drive and beaches
• Lavish lighting of buildings and homes
• Diwali shopping at Crawford Market

7. Udaipur, Rajasthan

Udaipur, the city of lakes, celebrates Diwali with elegance and charm. The shimmering waters of its lakes reflect the dazzling lights of palaces and homes. The royal family of Udaipur celebrates Diwali with great enthusiasm, and tourists can witness the royal traditions and rituals. The City Palace is a must-visit during Diwali as it is adorned with lights, offering an enchanting experience.

Star Attractions:

• Grand royal celebrations at the City Palace
• Fireworks over Lake Pichola
• Cultural performances and folk music

8. Delhi

As the capital of India, Delhi showcases a grand mix of Diwali celebrations. The city’s ancient temples, like the Lakshmi Narayan Temple (Birla Mandir), are beautifully lit, while markets like Chandni Chowk and Connaught Place turn into hubs of festive shopping and decorations. Delhi also hosts a range of cultural programs and fairs, where one can enjoy traditional dance, music, and food.

Star Attractions:

• Lavish light displays at historical sites and temples
• Diwali melas (fairs) and cultural events
• Fireworks and traditional rituals at homes

9. Chennai, Tamil Nadu

In Chennai, Diwali, or Deepavali, starts with early morning celebrations, where people take oil baths, wear new clothes, and offer prayers to deities. The city is filled with the sound of firecrackers, and sweets like Adirasam and Mysore Pak are prepared in homes. Marina Beach becomes a gathering spot for fireworks displays, while temples like Kapaleeshwarar and Parthasarathy are lit up for the occasion.

Star Attractions:

• Early morning oil bath and prayers
• Traditional sweets and delicacies
• Fireworks at Marina Beach and temple visits

10. Goa

Goa adds its unique flair to Diwali with the celebration of Narkasur Chaturdashi, where effigies of the demon Narkasur are burnt across towns and villages. The night before Diwali, locals build giant effigies of the demon, parade them through the streets, and set them on fire at dawn. Goa’s beaches become vibrant with firecrackers and lamps. The local Hindu community celebrates Lakshmi Puja, and the festive atmosphere blends perfectly with the state’s natural beauty.

Star Attractions:

• Narkasur effigy burning
• Fireworks on beaches
• Lakshmi Puja at homes and temples

India’s diversity in celebrating Diwali is evident across its cities, each offering a unique experience filled with lights, prayers, sweets, and fireworks. Whether you seek a spiritual immersion in Varanasi, a royal celebration in Jaipur or Udaipur, or the blend of traditions and modernity in Delhi or Mumbai, Diwali across India is an unforgettable experience of joy, devotion, and cultural richness.